2010 - A year which brought many blessings and joy with a few bumps along the way. A year in which friends and family endured illness and deaths. A year in which we welcomed babies. A year in which my heart healed after dad's death. A year in which my priest left our parish and began an exciting new ministry. A year in which my husband and I celebrated our 25th year of marriage. A year in which old friendships were strengthened and new friends were made. A year in which my faith increased and I drew closer to the Lord. I look to 2011 with expectancy and hope.
Happy New Year!
Welcome to my blog! I post my thoughts on the Lord and anything else that may cross my mind.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Monday, December 27, 2010
Engaging my Brain
I have publicly stated many times - I am NOT a morning person. I get up at least 2 hours prior to my husband so I can be nice when he awakes all cheery, happy and ready to go. (I didn't know that about him before we married!)
This morning we were getting up around the same time because he was leaving the house very early. I started his pot of coffee 1st, I then made my 2 cups of coffee with my small coffee press. As the caffeine raced through my system, I thought I've forgotten something.
A few minutes later, I noticed his coffee overflowing on the counter and down the cabinets. I could not understand why this happened, and then it dawned on me...I never washed the pot and there may have been 1 or 2 cups of coffee left in it. Then I realized I had served a cup of this coffee to my husband already. I told him to dump it and I would begin again. He said it was fine and drank it. (YUCK) By this time I was awake!
The incident gave me an illustration as to how occasionally I approach the Lord 1/2 asleep without really being alert and engaged. I may be distracted, 1/2 asleep, running late in the morning, nonetheless - I am not all there with Him as I spend time in the Word or in prayer.
I pray in 2011 I am convicted if I am not 100% present while spending time with the Lord. I want to be mindful and diligent. How can I resist the enemy if I am 1/2 awake or running on empty?
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.
e alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
This morning we were getting up around the same time because he was leaving the house very early. I started his pot of coffee 1st, I then made my 2 cups of coffee with my small coffee press. As the caffeine raced through my system, I thought I've forgotten something.
A few minutes later, I noticed his coffee overflowing on the counter and down the cabinets. I could not understand why this happened, and then it dawned on me...I never washed the pot and there may have been 1 or 2 cups of coffee left in it. Then I realized I had served a cup of this coffee to my husband already. I told him to dump it and I would begin again. He said it was fine and drank it. (YUCK) By this time I was awake!
The incident gave me an illustration as to how occasionally I approach the Lord 1/2 asleep without really being alert and engaged. I may be distracted, 1/2 asleep, running late in the morning, nonetheless - I am not all there with Him as I spend time in the Word or in prayer.
I pray in 2011 I am convicted if I am not 100% present while spending time with the Lord. I want to be mindful and diligent. How can I resist the enemy if I am 1/2 awake or running on empty?
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.
e alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Christmas
I love the Christmas season. I remember as a child we decorated the day school was dismissed for the holidays and saved a gift to open on Epiphany to celebrate the wise men arriving in Bethlehem. The decorations came down January 6th.
It's too bad we rush to shop, decorate, celebrate, worship and then so many of us pack Christmas away December 26th. In 2008 I decided to leave the decorations up until Epiphany, I took 1/2 down and planned to finish the rest when I had to rush my father to the ER which began the year from you know where with the 11 1/2 months he was hospitalized. I then thought, this is 2009 - I am leaving the decorations up until Epiphany this year. I then rushed my father to the hospital and he died at the end of the month.
I have not decided if I will leave my decorations up until Epiphany this year; but I will celebrate the 12 Days of Christmas and savor the time we celebrate the birth of Christ the Lord.
Merry Christmas!
For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
It's too bad we rush to shop, decorate, celebrate, worship and then so many of us pack Christmas away December 26th. In 2008 I decided to leave the decorations up until Epiphany, I took 1/2 down and planned to finish the rest when I had to rush my father to the ER which began the year from you know where with the 11 1/2 months he was hospitalized. I then thought, this is 2009 - I am leaving the decorations up until Epiphany this year. I then rushed my father to the hospital and he died at the end of the month.
I have not decided if I will leave my decorations up until Epiphany this year; but I will celebrate the 12 Days of Christmas and savor the time we celebrate the birth of Christ the Lord.
Merry Christmas!
For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Siesta Memory Verse 2011
I am going to sow at least 24 Scriptures into my heart in 2011. After prayer, I think they will all come from the Gospels. I am looking forward to seeing which verses other Siestas choose.
I need the accountability of the roll call, I didn't commit many Scriptures to heart in 2010.
How about you? Will you join the Siestas once again in 2011?
In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
I need the accountability of the roll call, I didn't commit many Scriptures to heart in 2010.
How about you? Will you join the Siestas once again in 2011?
In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Line of Love
I am saddened today by the necessity of a "Line of Love" at Elizabeth Edwards' funeral. Her children are dealing with the death of their mother and a protest group wants to make their day much worse.
I saw pictures of the protesters a couple of days ago. They were carrying signs some of which read: God Bless Breast Cancer. Their reasoning - She was hell bound because her son died and she had cancer. (I wonder if they think her's estranged husband's adultery is also her fault?)
How do they think this demonstrates loving their neighbor as Jesus commanded us to do? I pray their hateful words and curses are shut down. I pray the people in the Line of Love reflect Christ's love and in no way come down to the protesters level of Phariseeism (I know - no such word) and hate.
As for the protesters, we must pray for them to be transformed by the love of Christ, for their hearts of stone to become hearts of flesh and we must do so because Christ also commands us:
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
I saw pictures of the protesters a couple of days ago. They were carrying signs some of which read: God Bless Breast Cancer. Their reasoning - She was hell bound because her son died and she had cancer. (I wonder if they think her's estranged husband's adultery is also her fault?)
How do they think this demonstrates loving their neighbor as Jesus commanded us to do? I pray their hateful words and curses are shut down. I pray the people in the Line of Love reflect Christ's love and in no way come down to the protesters level of Phariseeism (I know - no such word) and hate.
As for the protesters, we must pray for them to be transformed by the love of Christ, for their hearts of stone to become hearts of flesh and we must do so because Christ also commands us:
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Friends
Some of the greatest gifts I've received in my life have been friends the Lord placed in my life. I met Kay when I was 9 years old. We took ballet at the same studio. Our teacher called us Mutt and Jeff because she was tiny and I was tall. She was brunette and I was blonde. (We still claim our original hair colour!) We spent many a night at one another's homes laughing, practicing difficult steps, and dreaming of marriage (We might not have had a real understanding of marriage back then!). We've both experienced a lot of life since we met in the early 1970's.
We met for dinner Friday night, such a wonderful time of fellowship. I am so thankful through Christ Jesus our love and friendship have endured the seasons of life.
I am thankful for the sisters I've made in the blogging (many of you walked with me during my father's illness and death) world and the friends I've made via Facebook who met me as I was grieving dad's death.
I ask the Lord to bless each one of you and I thank Him for the greatest gift of all...Our Lord and Savior...
But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.
We met for dinner Friday night, such a wonderful time of fellowship. I am so thankful through Christ Jesus our love and friendship have endured the seasons of life.
I am thankful for the sisters I've made in the blogging (many of you walked with me during my father's illness and death) world and the friends I've made via Facebook who met me as I was grieving dad's death.
I ask the Lord to bless each one of you and I thank Him for the greatest gift of all...Our Lord and Savior...
But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Happy New Year
It's the beginning of the new year according to liturgical calenders. The 1st Sunday of Advent has come and gone. The season has begun for us to prepare our hearts for the coming of Jesus. Though, I don't observe all things liturgical, I observe Advent. (I could use prayers to locate the Advent Wreath Annette G gave me, I have to candles but not the wreath. I stored it separately from the Christmas decorations last year which apparently was not the smart thing to do.)
The word Advent means "coming" or "arrival" from the Latin Adventus. The focus of the season is the celebration of the birth of Jesus the Christ in his First Advent, and the anticipation of the return of Christ the King in his Second Advent.
During Advent, as Christmas music and retail ads swirl...I try to devote extra time to journaling and spending time in the Word. Many people fast during Advent. Many people spend more time in prayer. If you observe Advent, do you add time in prayer, the Word, fasting or all the above?
For those of us who observe Advent, I pray we find it a holy time.
In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah when he said, "The voice of one crying in the wilderness:'Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.'"
The word Advent means "coming" or "arrival" from the Latin Adventus. The focus of the season is the celebration of the birth of Jesus the Christ in his First Advent, and the anticipation of the return of Christ the King in his Second Advent.
During Advent, as Christmas music and retail ads swirl...I try to devote extra time to journaling and spending time in the Word. Many people fast during Advent. Many people spend more time in prayer. If you observe Advent, do you add time in prayer, the Word, fasting or all the above?
For those of us who observe Advent, I pray we find it a holy time.
In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah when he said, "The voice of one crying in the wilderness:'Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.'"
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Monday, November 8, 2010
Speak for Your Servant is Listening
I wonder how many times in my life I have said I need a word from the Lord or I do not seem to being hearing the Lord? Usually when I make those type of statements, I have let the cares of life come between me and time in prayer and the Word.
I read I Samuel chapter 3 and thought about the Lord calling Samuel and Samuel running to Eli because he did not recognize God's voice. The 3rd time Eli realized it was God calling Samuel and told Samuel, "Go and lie down, and if He calls you, say,'Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening."
I am willing to bet I have whined I needed a word from the Lord many more times thanI've said Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening
We miss so much when we are too busy talking and not listening. We miss the Lord when we let the cares of life steal our time in time in the Word and prayer.
I want to be a servant who says, "Speak, Lord, I am listening."
I read I Samuel chapter 3 and thought about the Lord calling Samuel and Samuel running to Eli because he did not recognize God's voice. The 3rd time Eli realized it was God calling Samuel and told Samuel, "Go and lie down, and if He calls you, say,'Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening."
I am willing to bet I have whined I needed a word from the Lord many more times thanI've said Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening
We miss so much when we are too busy talking and not listening. We miss the Lord when we let the cares of life steal our time in time in the Word and prayer.
I want to be a servant who says, "Speak, Lord, I am listening."
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Up a Tree
I was thinking about Zacchaeus and how desperate he was to see Jesus. He was short, not welcomed by the people of Jericho due to his job, and there was no way he could push his way to the front of the crowd, so he climbed a tree.
Can you imagine climbing a Sycamore tree? We had 1 in the front yard of my parents' first home. It was tall and a great tree to climb, but I cannot imagine climbing it as an adult for a host of reasons (especially gravity). However Zacchaeus scrambled right up the tree to see Jesus.
Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. He wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short he could not see over the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way. When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly. All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a sinner.” But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham.
Zacchaeus' life was changed instantly when Jesus spoke to him. He offered 1/2 his possessions to the poor. He said he would make restitution 4 times what he collected; if he had cheated anyone. And he had a house guest - The Messiah Jesus Christ. Salvation had come to his house.
I pray Jesus continues to transform me and though I may balk, I'd be willing to climb a tree for Him.
Can you imagine climbing a Sycamore tree? We had 1 in the front yard of my parents' first home. It was tall and a great tree to climb, but I cannot imagine climbing it as an adult for a host of reasons (especially gravity). However Zacchaeus scrambled right up the tree to see Jesus.
Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. He wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short he could not see over the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way. When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly. All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a sinner.” But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham.
Zacchaeus' life was changed instantly when Jesus spoke to him. He offered 1/2 his possessions to the poor. He said he would make restitution 4 times what he collected; if he had cheated anyone. And he had a house guest - The Messiah Jesus Christ. Salvation had come to his house.
I pray Jesus continues to transform me and though I may balk, I'd be willing to climb a tree for Him.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Monday, October 25, 2010
Nothing but the Blood Can Wash Away Our Sins
A friend called me Saturday night, she was distraught over a tough situation in her life. It's a hard season with no end in sight. A loved one is ill, refuses to admit she is ill, and does not follow any of the doctor's orders. The loved one is also loving conditionally, which makes it tough.
My friend said maybe God is doing this because of the evil things I used to do. I said hold on, I'm going to switch gears from listening to talking; God does not work that way! If He did, we would have been wiped out like Pharaoh's army in 7th grade.
I asked her if she had truly repented from the sins she thought were unforgivable. She said yes and I know she meant it. I said God forgave you. He knew you were going to commit everyone of those sins before the foundation of the world. We cannot save ourselves, we cannot earn a trip to heaven, that is why He provided the Atoning Lamb Jesus Christ the Righteous One for us. When Jesus' body was broken on the Cross, when His blood was spilled, when He was resurrected - we were saved.
She said well maybe I cannot forgive myself because these were big sins. I reminded her all sin is sin and when we truly repent and cry out to God for forgiveness, He grants it.
Is there anything you've hung on to and not forgiven yourself? Is the Cross big enough for everyone else but not you and a certain incident in your life? The answer is no! God is no respecter of persons. Accept the forgiveness He gives. Receive the mercy and grace which never ends. Live in the present looking toward the future with your eyes on the Lord.
While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, "Take and eat; this is my body." Then Jesus took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace 8that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding.
My friend said maybe God is doing this because of the evil things I used to do. I said hold on, I'm going to switch gears from listening to talking; God does not work that way! If He did, we would have been wiped out like Pharaoh's army in 7th grade.
I asked her if she had truly repented from the sins she thought were unforgivable. She said yes and I know she meant it. I said God forgave you. He knew you were going to commit everyone of those sins before the foundation of the world. We cannot save ourselves, we cannot earn a trip to heaven, that is why He provided the Atoning Lamb Jesus Christ the Righteous One for us. When Jesus' body was broken on the Cross, when His blood was spilled, when He was resurrected - we were saved.
She said well maybe I cannot forgive myself because these were big sins. I reminded her all sin is sin and when we truly repent and cry out to God for forgiveness, He grants it.
Is there anything you've hung on to and not forgiven yourself? Is the Cross big enough for everyone else but not you and a certain incident in your life? The answer is no! God is no respecter of persons. Accept the forgiveness He gives. Receive the mercy and grace which never ends. Live in the present looking toward the future with your eyes on the Lord.
While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, "Take and eat; this is my body." Then Jesus took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace 8that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Judge Not
A few weeks ago as I waited my turn to check out at the grocery store, I suddenly became a judgmental woman. It was not pretty.
The customer in front of my separated his groceries and used food stamps to buy a portion of them, then opened his wallet (I could not help but see it.) filled with 100 dollar bills and paid for beer, cigarettes and other items not covered by food stamps.
Suddenly, I was judging him. My 1st evil thought was: Maybe if you didn't spend so much money on your tattoo sleeves, tattoos on your neck, tattoos on your legs you could pay cash for all your groceries. Seriously his tattoos and spending habits are not my business. God did not make me the food or tattoo police.
I don't know his story. For all I know he's recently lost his job. His wife or child might be ill. He could be on disability due to an injury. I have no idea. I don't need to have an idea. I need to have godly thoughts. I am not the Ancient of Days.
I climbed off God's throne and thought Annette, why don't you pray for this man. God knows his needs, God knows his heart, God loves him so much He sent His Son to save him.
I need to remain grounded in Scripture and apply it to my life. I want to see all people with the eyes of Jesus and love all people with the heart of Jesus. I want to live the following verses out in my life:
Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
The customer in front of my separated his groceries and used food stamps to buy a portion of them, then opened his wallet (I could not help but see it.) filled with 100 dollar bills and paid for beer, cigarettes and other items not covered by food stamps.
Suddenly, I was judging him. My 1st evil thought was: Maybe if you didn't spend so much money on your tattoo sleeves, tattoos on your neck, tattoos on your legs you could pay cash for all your groceries. Seriously his tattoos and spending habits are not my business. God did not make me the food or tattoo police.
I don't know his story. For all I know he's recently lost his job. His wife or child might be ill. He could be on disability due to an injury. I have no idea. I don't need to have an idea. I need to have godly thoughts. I am not the Ancient of Days.
I climbed off God's throne and thought Annette, why don't you pray for this man. God knows his needs, God knows his heart, God loves him so much He sent His Son to save him.
I need to remain grounded in Scripture and apply it to my life. I want to see all people with the eyes of Jesus and love all people with the heart of Jesus. I want to live the following verses out in my life:
Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Monday, October 11, 2010
Amazing Love
Yesterday my friend Annette posted Testify to Love on her blog as her Sunday Song. I posted Amazing Love. The Bible has much to say about love. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
I frequently blog about love. I certainly hope I live it out and treat people in a loving way at all times. (Though there is a post coming soon about me fuming over someone using food stamps for part of their groceries and cash for other items. It will fall in the Judgment category.)
I come across people of many religions - Hindu, Moslem, Wiccan, etc. One thing that many of these people have in common (besides not being Christian) is being treated very poorly by Christians. They've been spat on, told they are going to hell, reminded witches used to be burned at the stake and so on.
In Scripture, Jesus tells us to love, love, love. Love our enemy, pray for those who persecute us, Legalistic , self-righteous words and arguments have never advanced the Kingdom of God. Love and prayer advance the Kingdom of God.
Let us pray we see all people with the eyes of Christ and treat them as Christ treats us.
You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
I frequently blog about love. I certainly hope I live it out and treat people in a loving way at all times. (Though there is a post coming soon about me fuming over someone using food stamps for part of their groceries and cash for other items. It will fall in the Judgment category.)
I come across people of many religions - Hindu, Moslem, Wiccan, etc. One thing that many of these people have in common (besides not being Christian) is being treated very poorly by Christians. They've been spat on, told they are going to hell, reminded witches used to be burned at the stake and so on.
In Scripture, Jesus tells us to love, love, love. Love our enemy, pray for those who persecute us, Legalistic , self-righteous words and arguments have never advanced the Kingdom of God. Love and prayer advance the Kingdom of God.
Let us pray we see all people with the eyes of Christ and treat them as Christ treats us.
You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Ever Changing Seasons
Most people in southeast Texas look forward to fall which visually is not much different from summer, but brings an exciting drop in temperatures. My living room and dining room are adorned with pumpkins and fall foliage.
I am in a season of intercession for a church I want to leave. I was sitting in the pew one Sunday several weeks ago whining (I wish I could honestly call it praying, but I cannot.) to the Lord about cell phones ringing, women sitting behind me carrying on a conversation and children misbehaving during the service. I said when can I leave this place and join another church!!! Suddenly I felt deep in my heart what the Lord feels for this congregation. Since then I have prayed over the sanctuary and church campus as well as the people attending the services. I have no idea if the season is long or short, but I will be obedient to the Lord.
Some seasons are short, some are long, some are hard, some are sweet. Remember whatever season you are in will not last forever. Keep your eyes on the Lord, a heavenly banquet awaits us:
Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear." (Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of the saints.) Then the angel said to me, "Write: 'Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!' " And he added, "These are the true words of God."
I am in a season of intercession for a church I want to leave. I was sitting in the pew one Sunday several weeks ago whining (I wish I could honestly call it praying, but I cannot.) to the Lord about cell phones ringing, women sitting behind me carrying on a conversation and children misbehaving during the service. I said when can I leave this place and join another church!!! Suddenly I felt deep in my heart what the Lord feels for this congregation. Since then I have prayed over the sanctuary and church campus as well as the people attending the services. I have no idea if the season is long or short, but I will be obedient to the Lord.
Some seasons are short, some are long, some are hard, some are sweet. Remember whatever season you are in will not last forever. Keep your eyes on the Lord, a heavenly banquet awaits us:
Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear." (Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of the saints.) Then the angel said to me, "Write: 'Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!' " And he added, "These are the true words of God."
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Monday, September 27, 2010
Long, Hard Seasons
So many of my friends are in hard seasons now. One is recovering from cancer, one is about to begin treatment for cancer, one lost her mother and one has lost a child.
It's so tiring as we endure a long, hard season, but thankfully we know they end. God is faithful and true. His word tells us:
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven:
a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot,
a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build,
a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance,
a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain,
a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away,
a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak,
a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.
Thankfully through Christ Jesus we have peace in the midst of long, hard seasons. Jesus said: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
His word also states: And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
When you are tired and weary let your friends carry you in prayer and receive the comfort of the Lord as He fills you with His peace.
It's so tiring as we endure a long, hard season, but thankfully we know they end. God is faithful and true. His word tells us:
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven:
a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot,
a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build,
a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance,
a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain,
a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away,
a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak,
a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.
Thankfully through Christ Jesus we have peace in the midst of long, hard seasons. Jesus said: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
His word also states: And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
When you are tired and weary let your friends carry you in prayer and receive the comfort of the Lord as He fills you with His peace.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
May the Words of My Mouth and the Meditation of My Heart Be...
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.
As Christians, I believe most of us are acquainted with Psalm 19:4, we endeavor to speak godly words and not words that do harm such as gossip and harsh words. Many times however, we should not speak, we should listen. I've noticed a listening problem lately.
The following statements were made by mature Christians to seriously ill people:
Well Norma, your head has a nice shape to it. (She was recovering from cancer and bald at the time.)
I hope you will not have surgery to remove the tumor, drink this juice it will cure you.
Don't go to doctors for _____ fill in the blank. Just pray.
I was sicker with cancer than you are now. (Spoken by a cancer survivor to someone who died of cancer a few weeks later.)
Joe, I understand your heart is failing, well let me tell you about _____, fill in the blank.
We've all said things we should not say in a multitude of circumstances, for example telling a child something your parents said to you and you swore as a teen when you were an adult you would never say it. We've all lashed out at loved ones. We've all gossiped at 1 time or another. We know when we need to repent and be quiet in most areas of conversation, but sadly many people don't know when to be a listening presence when they visit or call someone who is ill.
My friend Norma always says, "We have two ears and 1 mouth for a reason. We are to listen, love and pray."
Ask the Lord to show you if you are falling short when it comes to listening.
As Christians, I believe most of us are acquainted with Psalm 19:4, we endeavor to speak godly words and not words that do harm such as gossip and harsh words. Many times however, we should not speak, we should listen. I've noticed a listening problem lately.
The following statements were made by mature Christians to seriously ill people:
Well Norma, your head has a nice shape to it. (She was recovering from cancer and bald at the time.)
I hope you will not have surgery to remove the tumor, drink this juice it will cure you.
Don't go to doctors for _____ fill in the blank. Just pray.
I was sicker with cancer than you are now. (Spoken by a cancer survivor to someone who died of cancer a few weeks later.)
Joe, I understand your heart is failing, well let me tell you about _____, fill in the blank.
We've all said things we should not say in a multitude of circumstances, for example telling a child something your parents said to you and you swore as a teen when you were an adult you would never say it. We've all lashed out at loved ones. We've all gossiped at 1 time or another. We know when we need to repent and be quiet in most areas of conversation, but sadly many people don't know when to be a listening presence when they visit or call someone who is ill.
My friend Norma always says, "We have two ears and 1 mouth for a reason. We are to listen, love and pray."
Ask the Lord to show you if you are falling short when it comes to listening.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
It's All About Him
So many ads tell us we need to focus on ourselves, have our guilty pleasure, they tell us it's OK to be selfish as well as other things which feed our souls and not our spirits. Yes, we should care for ourselves and having time to ourselves and vacations are not a bad thing. Focus entirely on self is a bad thing. After all it is really all about Jesus Christ our Savior, Who God the Father sacrificed in our place to reconcile us to Him.
I pray we learn to find our refreshment in Jesus. His word tells us:
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
So many times when we are weary, we look for refreshment everywhere except spending time with our Lord, whether it be in praise, meditating on Scripture or sitting quietly waiting on Him.
I pray we learn to find our refreshment in Jesus. His word tells us:
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
So many times when we are weary, we look for refreshment everywhere except spending time with our Lord, whether it be in praise, meditating on Scripture or sitting quietly waiting on Him.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Saturday, September 11, 2010
September 11
I suppose every generation has a day on which they remember exactly what they were doing when the news of tragedy reached their ears. I was running late to work, my husband chased me down the drive way to tell me to come inside and watch a traffic report from New York City. I thought I am late, my boss is going to have a cow and you want me to watch a traffic report which has nothing to do with the Southwest Freeway!!!
As a result of going inside to look at the TV for a minute, I saw the 2nd plane hit the 2nd tower. I realized America was under attack on our shores for the 1st time since Pearl Harbor. I numbly drove to work and slammed on my breaks when the DJ interrupted a song to announce more tragic news. I noticed almost everyone on Highway 59 hit their brakes when I did.
That morning my father closed the office and sent us home for the day. I cried, I stared at the TV for hours and hours. I prayed. I kept wondering if any of our allies would be attacked that day as well. I wondered if the planes had not been grounded would more have been used as lethal weapons. I wondered how the families of the hijackers really felt. Were they secretly horrified or genuinely proud? I wondered if churches would be packed over the next few days. I wondered if true revival would begin in the USA.
I could not fathom the hatred against the USA nor the hatred directed at Muslims after 9/11. Nine years later we have the Mosque at Ground Zero and the Koran burning situation facing us; both stirring up hatred in and out of the Body of Christ. Christians are called to love people not hate them. If you feel hatred rising up in you, please spend time meditating on Scripture pertaining to love. Hatred can cripple your walk with Christ and shut down your ministry.
Christ did not suggest we love people. He commanded us to love people. His word states:
You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
As a result of going inside to look at the TV for a minute, I saw the 2nd plane hit the 2nd tower. I realized America was under attack on our shores for the 1st time since Pearl Harbor. I numbly drove to work and slammed on my breaks when the DJ interrupted a song to announce more tragic news. I noticed almost everyone on Highway 59 hit their brakes when I did.
That morning my father closed the office and sent us home for the day. I cried, I stared at the TV for hours and hours. I prayed. I kept wondering if any of our allies would be attacked that day as well. I wondered if the planes had not been grounded would more have been used as lethal weapons. I wondered how the families of the hijackers really felt. Were they secretly horrified or genuinely proud? I wondered if churches would be packed over the next few days. I wondered if true revival would begin in the USA.
I could not fathom the hatred against the USA nor the hatred directed at Muslims after 9/11. Nine years later we have the Mosque at Ground Zero and the Koran burning situation facing us; both stirring up hatred in and out of the Body of Christ. Christians are called to love people not hate them. If you feel hatred rising up in you, please spend time meditating on Scripture pertaining to love. Hatred can cripple your walk with Christ and shut down your ministry.
Christ did not suggest we love people. He commanded us to love people. His word states:
You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Countdown to Colorado
My mother, Anna Marie and I are going to Creede, CO for the Labor Day weekend. I cannot tell you what anticipation I feel as I think of the drive from Colorado Springs to Creede. Once we arrive in the San Luis Valley - the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the San Juan and Rio Grande National Forests, the Rio Grande River are just a part of the dazzling beauty our Creator chose to display.
When I am in the Creede - South Fork area of Colorado I feel very close to God for several reasons: cell phone service is still sketchy; it's not 100 degrees and humid; there is little traffic noise; I rarely watch TV up there - as a result I am quiet and spending time in prayer and the Word as I sit outdoors.
I watch elk, deer, and other animals, I gaze at the mountains, I hear the wind rushing through the aspen leaves and I want to just cry over the shear beauty. I am so overcome by the greatness of God. I see His splendor in every day life too, but up there is bowls me over. Friends have told me the same thing happens to them in the wide,open, spaces of the plains and in the Texas Panhandle. Do you suppose it's because we are truly aware of how small we are and how much we need Him?
My prayer is that I will come home from Colorado and learn to sit more quietly at home in every day life and be bowled over by His splendor and greatness.
Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD;let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. For the LORD is the great God, the great King above all gods. In his hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to him. The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land. Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the LORD our Maker; for he is our God and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care.
When I am in the Creede - South Fork area of Colorado I feel very close to God for several reasons: cell phone service is still sketchy; it's not 100 degrees and humid; there is little traffic noise; I rarely watch TV up there - as a result I am quiet and spending time in prayer and the Word as I sit outdoors.
I watch elk, deer, and other animals, I gaze at the mountains, I hear the wind rushing through the aspen leaves and I want to just cry over the shear beauty. I am so overcome by the greatness of God. I see His splendor in every day life too, but up there is bowls me over. Friends have told me the same thing happens to them in the wide,open, spaces of the plains and in the Texas Panhandle. Do you suppose it's because we are truly aware of how small we are and how much we need Him?
My prayer is that I will come home from Colorado and learn to sit more quietly at home in every day life and be bowled over by His splendor and greatness.
Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD;let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. For the LORD is the great God, the great King above all gods. In his hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to him. The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land. Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the LORD our Maker; for he is our God and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
25 Years Ago Today
I married the man of my dreams who caused a few nightmares along the way. I am sure he would say the same thing about me as well.
We've endured many situations life has thrown at us, including: Love, Joy, Tears, Faith, Death, Die to Self, Live for Self, Love, Sickness, Better and Worse, Hope, Grief, Love, Laughter, Hard Financial Times, Family Feuds, Love; we always come back to love. (Not to say there were a few shouts and curse words in between in our early years.)
We are not perfect, but we are perfect for one another. Marriage is not a sprint, it's not a 5K, it's not even a marathon, it's an endurance race until the finish line.
I look forward to the next 25 years with my man next to me and my focus on Christ Jesus.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
We've endured many situations life has thrown at us, including: Love, Joy, Tears, Faith, Death, Die to Self, Live for Self, Love, Sickness, Better and Worse, Hope, Grief, Love, Laughter, Hard Financial Times, Family Feuds, Love; we always come back to love. (Not to say there were a few shouts and curse words in between in our early years.)
We are not perfect, but we are perfect for one another. Marriage is not a sprint, it's not a 5K, it's not even a marathon, it's an endurance race until the finish line.
I look forward to the next 25 years with my man next to me and my focus on Christ Jesus.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Put on the full armor of God
One of the dearest Christian men I know, a man filled with godly wisdom and love had part of his lung removed due to cancer about a month ago. Yesterday after walking quite a bit and eating lunch, having a really great day Ennis was rushed to the hospital with a collapsed lung which may have a tear it it. Since the phone call learning of his condition, I received other phone calls telling me Phillip could not begin chemo yesterday for the stage IV lung cancer discovered 2 weeks ago, his wife Bobbie is in the hospital as well with a drug resistant infection, another sister in Christ has esophageal cancer which has spread, a friend's son was diagnosed with cancer which has spread all over his body...might I just say part of me wanted to say I can't take another phone call today, the other part of me said yes I can because I am not to operate under my own strength. (The phone rang again, Mrs. Graves had a stroke, she is a beloved school teacher I had in high school.) Part of me wants to yell from the roof top I HATE CANCER but I know I need to pray - believing prayers will be answered for Mrs. Graves, Ennis, Phillip, Betty, Bobbie, and Andy. Prayers for peace, mental/spiritual/physical wholeness in Christ Jesus; prayers for physical/mental/spiritual comfort; prayers for my friends to be filled with faith, hop, love, not hopelessness, despair, and anxiety. I need to pray for their families.
I have to know and believe Scripture to pray for intense situations. You may be praying over a dire situation at this time, it may be a marriage which is on the death bed; it may be a child facing prison; your loved one may be in the grip of addiction. The enemy assaults us as well as our families and let's face it, we live in a fallen world. Earth is not the Garden of Eden. But the One Who prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane took care of it all for us. Rely on Him, press into Him, operate in His strength and when you've done all you can do - do some more:
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
An update to this post, Phillip died last night. Thankfully his sister and children were with him. I am not sure about his wife Bobbie because she is hospitalized as well.
I have to know and believe Scripture to pray for intense situations. You may be praying over a dire situation at this time, it may be a marriage which is on the death bed; it may be a child facing prison; your loved one may be in the grip of addiction. The enemy assaults us as well as our families and let's face it, we live in a fallen world. Earth is not the Garden of Eden. But the One Who prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane took care of it all for us. Rely on Him, press into Him, operate in His strength and when you've done all you can do - do some more:
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
An update to this post, Phillip died last night. Thankfully his sister and children were with him. I am not sure about his wife Bobbie because she is hospitalized as well.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
A Prayer, a Song and a Priest
I had so much fun last weekend. I met Karen, Anna Marie and Katie in Hallettsville, TX Friday night because we were participating in a 5K race on Saturday benefiting Young Life.
Saturday Karen and Anna Marie came to my house after the race and spent the night. We went to dinner and a movie and to church on Sunday morning. They went 45 minutes early with me to prayer walk the campus, and pray inside the gym (our temporary sanctuary). Don and Jeannine joined us for prayer. We prayed for many things to be accomplished - most especially people enter and worship with a reverent heart, knowing though we are in a gym - this is a sanctuary which is holy ground. The prayers were answered in a mighty way. The band began practicing a song called I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light. That particular song was Anna Marie and Jack's youngest son's favorite song. It was the last song sang at his funeral. No matter where Anna Marie attends church the nearest weekend to the anniversary of his birth or death, the song is played. No one at theses churches know it was Stevie's favorite song. No one knows the dates involved. It's a God moment. Our interim priest walked in the door, Karen's mouth dropped open because Father Scottie officiated at her wedding in San Antonio, TX 24 years ago. They were so happy to see each other! Another God moment.
God blesses us in many ways and answers prayers all the time. Sometimes we are so busy not listening we miss it. His Word is true, you can rely on Him. He will never fail you!Look for your God moments...
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. "Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone?
For the word of the LORD is right and true; he is faithful in all he does.
Your love, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the great deep. O LORD, you preserve both man and beast.
Saturday Karen and Anna Marie came to my house after the race and spent the night. We went to dinner and a movie and to church on Sunday morning. They went 45 minutes early with me to prayer walk the campus, and pray inside the gym (our temporary sanctuary). Don and Jeannine joined us for prayer. We prayed for many things to be accomplished - most especially people enter and worship with a reverent heart, knowing though we are in a gym - this is a sanctuary which is holy ground. The prayers were answered in a mighty way. The band began practicing a song called I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light. That particular song was Anna Marie and Jack's youngest son's favorite song. It was the last song sang at his funeral. No matter where Anna Marie attends church the nearest weekend to the anniversary of his birth or death, the song is played. No one at theses churches know it was Stevie's favorite song. No one knows the dates involved. It's a God moment. Our interim priest walked in the door, Karen's mouth dropped open because Father Scottie officiated at her wedding in San Antonio, TX 24 years ago. They were so happy to see each other! Another God moment.
God blesses us in many ways and answers prayers all the time. Sometimes we are so busy not listening we miss it. His Word is true, you can rely on Him. He will never fail you!Look for your God moments...
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. "Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone?
For the word of the LORD is right and true; he is faithful in all he does.
Your love, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the great deep. O LORD, you preserve both man and beast.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Fog, Sun, and Wind
I was asked to be an intercessor during a Christian Educators meeting last Saturday as well as say a few words. Saturday morning arrived and I thought Lord - I have nothing to say (Don't let my husband know he missed a speechless moment!) to the people attending today's conference. I was supposed to arrive at 7:30am to begin praying, the conference would begin an hour later and end at 1:30pm. It was 7:15am and I had nothing from the Lord, no message from Him for these people.
I began to prayer walk the campus as the sun was shining brightly in the sky. As I rounded the corner a heavy fog descended out of nowhere and the street lights came on and people had to use their headlights as they drove down the street. I said, "Lord what is this?" He said, "This is the fog enveloping my students, teachers and administrators. They are shrouded with fatigue, defeat and hopelessness. The sun came back out and burned through the fog. The Lord said, "My Son burns through the shroud of fatigue, defeat, and hopelessness." I rounded the corner and felt a north breeze which is highly unusual on July 31, in southeast Texas. I asked God what this was. He said, "My students, teacher, and administrators need to operate in the power of the Holy Spirit and not their own strength."
We know this, it is Christianity 101 but obviously the people I spoke to needed a reminder and many times so do we. The fog, the sun, the breeze so beautifully illustrated God's message to everyone Saturday and obviously was much better than anything I could imagine on my own.
Keep your spiritual ears open, He speaks to us in many ways, we must be listening to hear.
I began to prayer walk the campus as the sun was shining brightly in the sky. As I rounded the corner a heavy fog descended out of nowhere and the street lights came on and people had to use their headlights as they drove down the street. I said, "Lord what is this?" He said, "This is the fog enveloping my students, teachers and administrators. They are shrouded with fatigue, defeat and hopelessness. The sun came back out and burned through the fog. The Lord said, "My Son burns through the shroud of fatigue, defeat, and hopelessness." I rounded the corner and felt a north breeze which is highly unusual on July 31, in southeast Texas. I asked God what this was. He said, "My students, teacher, and administrators need to operate in the power of the Holy Spirit and not their own strength."
We know this, it is Christianity 101 but obviously the people I spoke to needed a reminder and many times so do we. The fog, the sun, the breeze so beautifully illustrated God's message to everyone Saturday and obviously was much better than anything I could imagine on my own.
Keep your spiritual ears open, He speaks to us in many ways, we must be listening to hear.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Sisters in Christ
I so value my sisters in Christ. At one point in my life I either knew my sisters in Christ in person or figuratively as members of the Body of Christ, then a new category was born - my blogging sisters in Christ. I keep up with a few of you on the Net (and I've met 2 of you in person - Annette & Ang) via your blogs. I really appreciate knowing your hearts through your posts.
One sweet sister is Wendy, I've read her posts pouring out her heart concerning her husband and his fight with COPD. David passed away earlier this month.
I ask you to lift Wendy up in prayer as well as her family. So many of you are hurting for 1 reason or another. Know we are here to pray with you and for you. We are to carry one another in prayer just as the friends carried their friend the paralytic to Jesus.
A few days later, when Jesus again entered Capernaum, the people heard that he had come home. So many gathered that there was no room left, not even outside the door, and he preached the word to them. Some men came, bringing to him a paralytic, carried by four of them. they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus and, after digging through it, lowered the mat the paralyzed man was lying on. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Son, your sins are forgiven."
We are to lift each other up, not tear each other down. We are to speak words of love not gossip. We are to love not judge. (Don't confuse judgment with discernment!) We need to listen instead of always speaking.
If you need prayer, please leave a comment. As always - Stay in the Word!
One sweet sister is Wendy, I've read her posts pouring out her heart concerning her husband and his fight with COPD. David passed away earlier this month.
I ask you to lift Wendy up in prayer as well as her family. So many of you are hurting for 1 reason or another. Know we are here to pray with you and for you. We are to carry one another in prayer just as the friends carried their friend the paralytic to Jesus.
A few days later, when Jesus again entered Capernaum, the people heard that he had come home. So many gathered that there was no room left, not even outside the door, and he preached the word to them. Some men came, bringing to him a paralytic, carried by four of them. they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus and, after digging through it, lowered the mat the paralyzed man was lying on. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Son, your sins are forgiven."
We are to lift each other up, not tear each other down. We are to speak words of love not gossip. We are to love not judge. (Don't confuse judgment with discernment!) We need to listen instead of always speaking.
If you need prayer, please leave a comment. As always - Stay in the Word!
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Friday, July 23, 2010
Love
I blog about love frequently, I hope I will always have a fresh perspective on love and never take God's love, my husband's love, my family's love or my friend's love for granted.
I chose Kelly Minter's Loss, Legacy, & Love for the women's Bible Study group which meets at my house on Monday nights. Much to our surprise Beth Moore chose it for the Siesta Summer Study as well. We have so enjoyed the study and been reduced to tears a couple of times too.
Sometimes, I think as Christians we don't think about love being being a central theme in the Old Testament which is highly inaccurate. The Old Testament is filled with stories of love, the following are but a few:
God's love for His people revealed through out through out the Old Testament
Abram's love for Lot
Joseph's love for his father and family
David's love for God
Ruth's love for Naomi
Ruth left her home, her family and set off for Israel with Naomi. They were widowed, she was childless, and a foreigner from Moab of all places going to live in the Promised Land. Ruth loved Naomi so much, she worked hard to support her. I think her love brought healing to Naomi. (That's just my opinion.) I never knew a deep love from my mother-in-law, I loved her very much at one time but the love died slowly but surely over time due to various circumstances. I prayed for God to fill me with His love for her, I think that prayer was answered, but I never "felt" love for her like I did before.
Some of the most famous words in the Bible are found in Ruth, I must use King James for this:
And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me.
Ruth totally died to self, she worked hard from sun up to well past sun down, hard physical work and then went home to serve a woman who wanted to be called Mara (Bitter), but Ruth kept loving and finally we see Naomi calling Ruth daughter and asking the Lord to bless Ruth. Do not despair as you serve and pray for a loved one. God hears our prayers and answers them, He sees our tears, He knows the number of tears we shed.
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
I chose Kelly Minter's Loss, Legacy, & Love for the women's Bible Study group which meets at my house on Monday nights. Much to our surprise Beth Moore chose it for the Siesta Summer Study as well. We have so enjoyed the study and been reduced to tears a couple of times too.
Sometimes, I think as Christians we don't think about love being being a central theme in the Old Testament which is highly inaccurate. The Old Testament is filled with stories of love, the following are but a few:
God's love for His people revealed through out through out the Old Testament
Abram's love for Lot
Joseph's love for his father and family
David's love for God
Ruth's love for Naomi
Ruth left her home, her family and set off for Israel with Naomi. They were widowed, she was childless, and a foreigner from Moab of all places going to live in the Promised Land. Ruth loved Naomi so much, she worked hard to support her. I think her love brought healing to Naomi. (That's just my opinion.) I never knew a deep love from my mother-in-law, I loved her very much at one time but the love died slowly but surely over time due to various circumstances. I prayed for God to fill me with His love for her, I think that prayer was answered, but I never "felt" love for her like I did before.
Some of the most famous words in the Bible are found in Ruth, I must use King James for this:
And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me.
Ruth totally died to self, she worked hard from sun up to well past sun down, hard physical work and then went home to serve a woman who wanted to be called Mara (Bitter), but Ruth kept loving and finally we see Naomi calling Ruth daughter and asking the Lord to bless Ruth. Do not despair as you serve and pray for a loved one. God hears our prayers and answers them, He sees our tears, He knows the number of tears we shed.
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
A Lost Diamond and Lung Cancer
Yesterday, my friend had surgery to remove cancer from his lung. He and his wife are believers and are standing in faith but have had a little trouble with fear.
They booked their vacation months ago for last week. The doctor told them to take it, so they did; some of their family joined them. They stayed at a marvelous resort on a beach with pools and many amenities. During the vacation, the diamond fell out of my friend's ring. They searched for it to no avail. The next day, their grandson was swimming in 1 of the resort's gigantic pools with numerous other guests and stepped on something. He picked it up to see what it was. It was his grandmother's diamond.
I believe that was a sign reminding them God never forsakes us, He never ever leaves us, and He is ever faithful. Once again, we must not only believe in Him, we must believe Him and to believe Him requires knowing what He promises us in His word.
This is a small sampling of His promises to us:
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Matthew 28:20b Jesus said, "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
Romans 3:21-23 But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son,that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
They booked their vacation months ago for last week. The doctor told them to take it, so they did; some of their family joined them. They stayed at a marvelous resort on a beach with pools and many amenities. During the vacation, the diamond fell out of my friend's ring. They searched for it to no avail. The next day, their grandson was swimming in 1 of the resort's gigantic pools with numerous other guests and stepped on something. He picked it up to see what it was. It was his grandmother's diamond.
I believe that was a sign reminding them God never forsakes us, He never ever leaves us, and He is ever faithful. Once again, we must not only believe in Him, we must believe Him and to believe Him requires knowing what He promises us in His word.
This is a small sampling of His promises to us:
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Matthew 28:20b Jesus said, "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
Romans 3:21-23 But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son,that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Monday, July 12, 2010
Compromise
In our culture we frequently see articles in magazines with the word Compromise listed in the title; especially in articles pertaining to marriage and relationships. (Of course we see many other articles with phrases such as: Be Selfish) In the Bible, the Israelites compromised every so often and it never worked out for them. Take a look at Solomon who at one point wanted nothing more than wisdom from the Lord.
1 Kings 11
1 King Solomon, however, loved many foreign women besides Pharaoh's daughter—Moabites, Ammonites, Edomites, Sidonians and Hittites. 2 They were from nations about which the LORD had told the Israelites, "You must not intermarry with them, because they will surely turn your hearts after their gods." Nevertheless, Solomon held fast to them in love. 3 He had seven hundred wives of royal birth and three hundred concubines, and his wives led him astray. 4 As Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the LORD his God, as the heart of David his father had been. 5 He followed Ashtoreth the goddess of the Sidonians, and Molech the detestable god of the Ammonites. 6 So Solomon did evil in the eyes of the LORD; he did not follow the LORD completely, as David his father had done.
7 On a hill east of Jerusalem, Solomon built a high place for Chemosh the detestable god of Moab, and for Molech the detestable god of the Ammonites. 8 He did the same for all his foreign wives, who burned incense and offered sacrifices to their gods.
9 The LORD became angry with Solomon because his heart had turned away from the LORD, the God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice. 10 Although he had forbidden Solomon to follow other gods, Solomon did not keep the LORD's command. 11 So the LORD said to Solomon, "Since this is your attitude and you have not kept my covenant and my decrees, which I commanded you, I will most certainly tear the kingdom away from you and give it to one of your subordinates. 12 Nevertheless, for the sake of David your father, I will not do it during your lifetime. I will tear it out of the hand of your son. 13 Yet I will not tear the whole kingdom from him, but will give him one tribe for the sake of David my servant and for the sake of Jerusalem, which I have chosen."
Solomon compromised when he married idolaters and he became an idolater himself. He was no longer fully devoted to the Lord. Many times compromising is not choosing the Lord’s best for us. Dying to self, casting aside pride, letting go of a controlling spirit (the need to always be right) are good things, they are godly things and certainly not compromises.
Ask the Lord to reveal to you if you have compromised in an area of your life which leads to sin of some sort. Also, ask the Lord to reveal to you where you need to die to self, cast pride out or let go of a controlling spirit which brings so much freedom and victory in our lives. Let’s choose God’s best for us!
1 Kings 11
1 King Solomon, however, loved many foreign women besides Pharaoh's daughter—Moabites, Ammonites, Edomites, Sidonians and Hittites. 2 They were from nations about which the LORD had told the Israelites, "You must not intermarry with them, because they will surely turn your hearts after their gods." Nevertheless, Solomon held fast to them in love. 3 He had seven hundred wives of royal birth and three hundred concubines, and his wives led him astray. 4 As Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the LORD his God, as the heart of David his father had been. 5 He followed Ashtoreth the goddess of the Sidonians, and Molech the detestable god of the Ammonites. 6 So Solomon did evil in the eyes of the LORD; he did not follow the LORD completely, as David his father had done.
7 On a hill east of Jerusalem, Solomon built a high place for Chemosh the detestable god of Moab, and for Molech the detestable god of the Ammonites. 8 He did the same for all his foreign wives, who burned incense and offered sacrifices to their gods.
9 The LORD became angry with Solomon because his heart had turned away from the LORD, the God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice. 10 Although he had forbidden Solomon to follow other gods, Solomon did not keep the LORD's command. 11 So the LORD said to Solomon, "Since this is your attitude and you have not kept my covenant and my decrees, which I commanded you, I will most certainly tear the kingdom away from you and give it to one of your subordinates. 12 Nevertheless, for the sake of David your father, I will not do it during your lifetime. I will tear it out of the hand of your son. 13 Yet I will not tear the whole kingdom from him, but will give him one tribe for the sake of David my servant and for the sake of Jerusalem, which I have chosen."
Solomon compromised when he married idolaters and he became an idolater himself. He was no longer fully devoted to the Lord. Many times compromising is not choosing the Lord’s best for us. Dying to self, casting aside pride, letting go of a controlling spirit (the need to always be right) are good things, they are godly things and certainly not compromises.
Ask the Lord to reveal to you if you have compromised in an area of your life which leads to sin of some sort. Also, ask the Lord to reveal to you where you need to die to self, cast pride out or let go of a controlling spirit which brings so much freedom and victory in our lives. Let’s choose God’s best for us!
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
The Asparagus Fern Revisited
2 years ago, I wrote about the Asparagus Fern in my flower bed, people still comment on the post. I updated the post over the weekend for a friend's newsletter. Following is the updated version:
In 2008 my father was very ill and began the year in the hospital where he remained for 5 1/2 months. As a result of the hospitalization, I did not get to the big spring lawn clean up that year. All the shrubs needed pruning, weeds needed pulling, and summer annuals needed planting.
An asparagus fern had popped up in one of my flower beds. It had to go, it was taking up valuable space which had a Black Eyed Susan's name all over it. I'd left it alone during the winter because birds could eat the red berries on it, but it was Memorial weekend and the thing was going to pulled up by the roots and discarded. I trimmed it back, dug the ground around it, and began to pull but could not remove all of it. The asparagus fern was established. In desparation I drove to a local hardware store and purchased Round Up.
I sprayed the asparagus fern and waited for it to wither. I checked it daily, it was beginning to die. I thought alright next week, it is history. My father was back in the hospital and I didn't work in the yard for 2 more weeks. I went out 1 morning to dig up the remains of the asparagus fern and there it was thriving, green and almost as big as it was before I cut it back. I didn't know whether to laugh or cry and decided to leave it there. (I even fertilized it as an apology.)
I realized it had deep roots and that is how we need to plant the Word of God in our spirits. We must plant it deep and be rooted and grounded in His Word. Following are a few Bible verses pertaining to the Word:
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him.
Jesus replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it."
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.
For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.
In 2009, the asparagus fern survived Hurricane IKE, in 2010 it survived 3 days of 20 degree temperatures because the roots are deep. Planting the Word deep is vital to our spiritual lives and beneficial in many ways - our feet are shod with the shoes of peace as mentioned in Ephesians 6, we can draw on the Word hidden in our hearts when we are facing a tough situation, it brings discernment when we need it.
Plant the Word of God, it is vital...
In 2008 my father was very ill and began the year in the hospital where he remained for 5 1/2 months. As a result of the hospitalization, I did not get to the big spring lawn clean up that year. All the shrubs needed pruning, weeds needed pulling, and summer annuals needed planting.
An asparagus fern had popped up in one of my flower beds. It had to go, it was taking up valuable space which had a Black Eyed Susan's name all over it. I'd left it alone during the winter because birds could eat the red berries on it, but it was Memorial weekend and the thing was going to pulled up by the roots and discarded. I trimmed it back, dug the ground around it, and began to pull but could not remove all of it. The asparagus fern was established. In desparation I drove to a local hardware store and purchased Round Up.
I sprayed the asparagus fern and waited for it to wither. I checked it daily, it was beginning to die. I thought alright next week, it is history. My father was back in the hospital and I didn't work in the yard for 2 more weeks. I went out 1 morning to dig up the remains of the asparagus fern and there it was thriving, green and almost as big as it was before I cut it back. I didn't know whether to laugh or cry and decided to leave it there. (I even fertilized it as an apology.)
I realized it had deep roots and that is how we need to plant the Word of God in our spirits. We must plant it deep and be rooted and grounded in His Word. Following are a few Bible verses pertaining to the Word:
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him.
Jesus replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it."
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.
For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.
In 2009, the asparagus fern survived Hurricane IKE, in 2010 it survived 3 days of 20 degree temperatures because the roots are deep. Planting the Word deep is vital to our spiritual lives and beneficial in many ways - our feet are shod with the shoes of peace as mentioned in Ephesians 6, we can draw on the Word hidden in our hearts when we are facing a tough situation, it brings discernment when we need it.
Plant the Word of God, it is vital...
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Praise Reports
A few weeks ago, I asked a small group of women to pray for someone having knee replacement surgery. Our prayers were answered, the patient recovered in record time and was back home with her family soon after surgery and rehab. Her rehab time was cut from 4 weeks to 10 days. Thank you Lord. I am still praying for her as well as her husband to receive Christ as their Lord and Savior.
A few days ago, I sent an emergency prayer request for a woman who had a plan, said goodbye, and picked a date to kill herself. I was contacted yesterday, she did not do it and is in a hospital. I continue to pray for her spiritual and emotional healing. I call her Daughter of the King for prayer purposes as I cannot put her name on the Internet.
I am so thankful for those of you who prayed with me over these situations. I am so thankful the Lord moved in a mighty way on behalf of these precious people.
Bless the Lord O my soul...let me not forget His benefits!!!
A few days ago, I sent an emergency prayer request for a woman who had a plan, said goodbye, and picked a date to kill herself. I was contacted yesterday, she did not do it and is in a hospital. I continue to pray for her spiritual and emotional healing. I call her Daughter of the King for prayer purposes as I cannot put her name on the Internet.
I am so thankful for those of you who prayed with me over these situations. I am so thankful the Lord moved in a mighty way on behalf of these precious people.
Bless the Lord O my soul...let me not forget His benefits!!!
Saturday, June 26, 2010
49 and Counting
I turned 49 yesterday. I can remember when I thought that was ancient, almost fossilhood. I guess it's time for me to buy into the "it's the new 30 thing", though I think I'll just buy industrial strength spot remover (think Clinique) and moisturizer and keep smiling.I mean it could always be worse, I could be 49 in dog years.
I rarely think about my age, though I do miss the physical energy of my youth. I certainly appreciate being more mellow with age, more compassionate with age, and way more patient with age.
I have an 85 year old in my Bible Study group who is mentally and physically going strong, she is a true testimony to the sustaining power of God as is her husband of 66 years. Scripture is filled with senior citizens living active lives. Think Abraham and Sarah, St. John the Divine.
So in a culture which says I should fight aging like the Israelites fought the Philistines, I say - HA, I am going to serve the Lord and my family, work hard, have some fun and whatever else I am called to do. I continue to run the race with joy in my heart and a bottle of moisturizer in my hand.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
I rarely think about my age, though I do miss the physical energy of my youth. I certainly appreciate being more mellow with age, more compassionate with age, and way more patient with age.
I have an 85 year old in my Bible Study group who is mentally and physically going strong, she is a true testimony to the sustaining power of God as is her husband of 66 years. Scripture is filled with senior citizens living active lives. Think Abraham and Sarah, St. John the Divine.
So in a culture which says I should fight aging like the Israelites fought the Philistines, I say - HA, I am going to serve the Lord and my family, work hard, have some fun and whatever else I am called to do. I continue to run the race with joy in my heart and a bottle of moisturizer in my hand.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Oil Is Not the Only Thing Spewing
I must confess as I've watched the almost non stop news coverage of the BP mess in the Gulf of Mexico, I've said some pretty sinful things. BP = Broken Promises, BP's motto is drill and kill, to name of couple of things I said.
As oil is spewing in the Gulf, many people - Christians and unbelievers - are spewing evil words about BP, the govt, etc...
The Lord convicted me to spend more time in prayer over the situation and no time dissing BP or the govt.
I am now praying for a solution to be found if resolution does not come by the hand of the Almighty God Himself. I am praying about all the chemicals being spewed into the air. I am praying for the people whose livelihood has been jeopardized. I am praying for the economy of the areas involved. I am praying concerning the wildlife and ecosystems.
Since I quit bashing/spewing evil about BP, I do not feel so out of sorts. The Bible has much to say about the words of my mouth. Following are just a few Scriptures:
Pro 21:23 He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity.
James 1:26 If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless.
James 3:5 Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.
James 3:6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.
Let's pray about the situation instead of spewing evil with our words.
As oil is spewing in the Gulf, many people - Christians and unbelievers - are spewing evil words about BP, the govt, etc...
The Lord convicted me to spend more time in prayer over the situation and no time dissing BP or the govt.
I am now praying for a solution to be found if resolution does not come by the hand of the Almighty God Himself. I am praying about all the chemicals being spewed into the air. I am praying for the people whose livelihood has been jeopardized. I am praying for the economy of the areas involved. I am praying concerning the wildlife and ecosystems.
Since I quit bashing/spewing evil about BP, I do not feel so out of sorts. The Bible has much to say about the words of my mouth. Following are just a few Scriptures:
Pro 21:23 He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity.
James 1:26 If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless.
James 3:5 Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.
James 3:6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.
Let's pray about the situation instead of spewing evil with our words.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Familiar Fatigue & Uncomfortable Chairs
I cannot go into details because I do not want to announce another person's private information on the Internet, but I spent several hours in the hospital where my father died earlier this week. I was shocked at how quickly the chair in the various waiting rooms became uncomfortable and how quickly I became tired. When dad was sick, it took several days before I was this tired.
Starting two days in a row at 4:15am and staying up until 11:00pm took it out of me. I then had to work until 9:00pm Thursday night and worked late Friday night. I didn't think I was capable of a coherent thought Friday night when a friend came over because they wanted me to pray with them over a situation.
I knew then it was a Matthew 11:28-29 moment. (Every moment should be, but I sometimes try to operate under my own steam and strength.) Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
These words used to be spoken every week in our church service. Sometimes I think I heard them so often, I quit thinking about them and certainly never thought about living them out.
My friend and I prayed for a young man and his situation. We prayed for the Body of Christ. We prayed for Israel. We prayed for our government and the President. I was so refreshed afterwards. The presence of the Lord was so thick in my den, I could barely stand.
If you are operating in your own steam and or strength, if you are in the middle of a situation, remember you (and I) are yoked to our Lord and Savior. He strengthens us, He gives us rest.
I want to learn from Him and I know you do too.
Starting two days in a row at 4:15am and staying up until 11:00pm took it out of me. I then had to work until 9:00pm Thursday night and worked late Friday night. I didn't think I was capable of a coherent thought Friday night when a friend came over because they wanted me to pray with them over a situation.
I knew then it was a Matthew 11:28-29 moment. (Every moment should be, but I sometimes try to operate under my own steam and strength.) Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
These words used to be spoken every week in our church service. Sometimes I think I heard them so often, I quit thinking about them and certainly never thought about living them out.
My friend and I prayed for a young man and his situation. We prayed for the Body of Christ. We prayed for Israel. We prayed for our government and the President. I was so refreshed afterwards. The presence of the Lord was so thick in my den, I could barely stand.
If you are operating in your own steam and or strength, if you are in the middle of a situation, remember you (and I) are yoked to our Lord and Savior. He strengthens us, He gives us rest.
I want to learn from Him and I know you do too.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Treading Water
My friend Valerie and I have been in a season of treading water, for very different reasons but with the same results. We cannot move forward. Occasionally the feeling of treading water is comfortable, we've both been at it for 2 years. Mostly, it's a feeling of being stuck but knowing the Lord is present in our situations. We are both waiting for the swim forward season to arrive.
I will say if I have to choose, I prefer treading water to a wilderness experience. Done that one too, it was miserable. Most Christians told me it was a wonderful thing; well this Christian did not think so.
If you are stuck, stagnant, flailing, or drowning - Please know the Lord is right there with you. Sometimes these seasons are results of our own actions or inactions, sometimes it's due to a situation with a loved one, but we must remember the Lord knew all of this before the foundation of the world. He knew we needed our Savior. He knows the number of hairs on our head.
Hang on tight, stand firm, call friends and or your pastor for prayer. He is not going to let you go or as I have said before - He will not EVER drop you in the grease.
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.
I will say if I have to choose, I prefer treading water to a wilderness experience. Done that one too, it was miserable. Most Christians told me it was a wonderful thing; well this Christian did not think so.
If you are stuck, stagnant, flailing, or drowning - Please know the Lord is right there with you. Sometimes these seasons are results of our own actions or inactions, sometimes it's due to a situation with a loved one, but we must remember the Lord knew all of this before the foundation of the world. He knew we needed our Savior. He knows the number of hairs on our head.
Hang on tight, stand firm, call friends and or your pastor for prayer. He is not going to let you go or as I have said before - He will not EVER drop you in the grease.
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
May 2010
What happened to May? Is it my imagination or did this month fly by at warp speed?
I chose a Bible Study for the small group which meets in my home, we'll begin in a couple of weeks. Turns out Beth Moore and many Siestas will be doing the same study of Ruth by Kelly Minter.
Have you chosen a summer study? If you have, please leave me a comment and tell me what it is.
I am looking forward to a quick trip to the beach Friday afternoon and watching the Indianapolis 500 on Sunday. I hope to attend in person next year.
Join me in feasting on Ps 19:1-3
1 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
2 Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge.
3 There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard.
Enjoy your week and stay in the Word!
I chose a Bible Study for the small group which meets in my home, we'll begin in a couple of weeks. Turns out Beth Moore and many Siestas will be doing the same study of Ruth by Kelly Minter.
Have you chosen a summer study? If you have, please leave me a comment and tell me what it is.
I am looking forward to a quick trip to the beach Friday afternoon and watching the Indianapolis 500 on Sunday. I hope to attend in person next year.
Join me in feasting on Ps 19:1-3
1 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
2 Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge.
3 There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard.
Enjoy your week and stay in the Word!
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Letting Go
I've been reading a blogging sister's journey with her husband as his condition worsens due to COPD. He is now receiving palliative care. Her words are so touching as she describes letting go. Her post from a few days ago reminds me of my last serious conversation with my father 2 weeks before he died. I think (not realizing it that day) the topic of conversation in a sense gave my father permission to leave this home for his real home in heaven and I was letting go.
Americans frequently say I've learned to let _____________ go, whether it's a person or a situation. Many times however, we want to or justify holding on to something such as anger, a grudge, bitterness and or unforgiveness. When we hold on to those things, we are no longer living in spiritual freedom.
Most of us learned the Lord's Prayer as youngsters and may say it in each church service we attend. Do we really think about what the words say:
Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.
What about the verses which immediately follow the Lord's Prayer in Matthew 6: 14-15
For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive yours.
I'm not saying forgiveness always comes instantly when we decide to forgive someone or something. I am saying let go and let God. Choose to forgive, choose to let go of the the fruit of unforgivness. Yield to the Holy Spirit. Our Father would not tell us to forgive if it were not possible.
Americans frequently say I've learned to let _____________ go, whether it's a person or a situation. Many times however, we want to or justify holding on to something such as anger, a grudge, bitterness and or unforgiveness. When we hold on to those things, we are no longer living in spiritual freedom.
Most of us learned the Lord's Prayer as youngsters and may say it in each church service we attend. Do we really think about what the words say:
Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.
What about the verses which immediately follow the Lord's Prayer in Matthew 6: 14-15
For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive yours.
I'm not saying forgiveness always comes instantly when we decide to forgive someone or something. I am saying let go and let God. Choose to forgive, choose to let go of the the fruit of unforgivness. Yield to the Holy Spirit. Our Father would not tell us to forgive if it were not possible.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
FRIENDS
The other day I thanked the Lord for the friends He put in my life even the friends who ultimately betrayed me. Being betrayed is no fun, but it can be a time to grow in the Lord.
Jesus had big mouth friends- Peter; high maintenance friends (I think James and John might have been a little bit on the high maintenance side.); friends who listened - John & Mary; busy friends - Martha; and we all know He had at least 1 friend who betrayed Him - Judas.
I went steady with a dear boy off and on through high school. His parents and sister were very dear to me. When I married he became friends with my husband and when he married my husband and I became friends with his wife. The 4 of us did a lot together over the years.
He was diagnosed with 2 forms of cancer late in 1998; we were devastated. His wife had carte blanche to call any time of the day or night. I could tell something was going on with her, but I wrote it off to her husband's illness and juggling 2 young children and trying to work.
One day she told me he didn't want to talk to me anymore. I was hurt but thought it's his decision. He has little energy and is saving it for his family.
Not long after that, I discovered his wife was a binge alcoholic and ended up commiting her to a facility on Mother's Day in 1999. I went to her in-law's house that night, her father-in-law asked me why I quit speaking to his son. My mouth dropped open. I told him his daughter-in-law said his son no longer wanted to speak with me. He then told his son.
Thankfully my friend and I had a couple of weeks to talk before he died. We laughed about the silly plans we had in high school. We talked about how nervous he was to leave his children. We also discussed how secure he was in his salvation. I anointed him with oil and then he took my hand and said it was time to say goodbye. He died the next day. I will never forget that dear boy who grew into a dear man.
The Lord was with me as I rode the roller coaster of anger and forgiveness. I can tell you if it were not for grace from heaven, I would never be able to forgive her. She no longer speaks to me. She is very embarassed by her actions and that huge lie. She really does not believe I forgave her. It took almost a year but I can honestly say all is forgiven - I love her, I would be there for her in a heartbeat.
During the process of forgiveness, I grew in Christ and for that reason, I can be thankful for the trial of betrayal.
Jesus had big mouth friends- Peter; high maintenance friends (I think James and John might have been a little bit on the high maintenance side.); friends who listened - John & Mary; busy friends - Martha; and we all know He had at least 1 friend who betrayed Him - Judas.
I went steady with a dear boy off and on through high school. His parents and sister were very dear to me. When I married he became friends with my husband and when he married my husband and I became friends with his wife. The 4 of us did a lot together over the years.
He was diagnosed with 2 forms of cancer late in 1998; we were devastated. His wife had carte blanche to call any time of the day or night. I could tell something was going on with her, but I wrote it off to her husband's illness and juggling 2 young children and trying to work.
One day she told me he didn't want to talk to me anymore. I was hurt but thought it's his decision. He has little energy and is saving it for his family.
Not long after that, I discovered his wife was a binge alcoholic and ended up commiting her to a facility on Mother's Day in 1999. I went to her in-law's house that night, her father-in-law asked me why I quit speaking to his son. My mouth dropped open. I told him his daughter-in-law said his son no longer wanted to speak with me. He then told his son.
Thankfully my friend and I had a couple of weeks to talk before he died. We laughed about the silly plans we had in high school. We talked about how nervous he was to leave his children. We also discussed how secure he was in his salvation. I anointed him with oil and then he took my hand and said it was time to say goodbye. He died the next day. I will never forget that dear boy who grew into a dear man.
The Lord was with me as I rode the roller coaster of anger and forgiveness. I can tell you if it were not for grace from heaven, I would never be able to forgive her. She no longer speaks to me. She is very embarassed by her actions and that huge lie. She really does not believe I forgave her. It took almost a year but I can honestly say all is forgiven - I love her, I would be there for her in a heartbeat.
During the process of forgiveness, I grew in Christ and for that reason, I can be thankful for the trial of betrayal.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Remotes, Car Batteries, and God
We know God is in the details, we also know He promises us much in His word, for example: Jer 29:11-12 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you
Many of you know I have been battling an upper respiratory infection for 2 months. Until last week, I felt bad and worked from bed many days, slept at lunch and slept from 5pm to 8pm or so and went back to bed at 10pm until 8am the next day. I am proud to say I am much, MUCH better and I now can comprehend what I read in His word again.
One Saturday when I felt my worst, I had to launder the sheets and blankets. It was cold, raining, and very damp so I washed the flannel sheets and fleece blankets which were on the bed. I loaded the sheets in the washer, started the washer and went back into the bedroom to sleep on top of the blankets. I woke up and decided to flip on the TV, no remote...oh no...where is it? (Not sure the man can function without it.)I searched high and low and then thought it's in the washer. I opened the washer there it was in the sheets. Amazingly enough, the washer had begun the 1st cycle but stopped. The remote was not even wet. I pulled it out, slammed the door shut and the washer started up and washed the load of sheets properly.
I personally think God intervened on my behalf. It's a small thing, but He cares about the small things just as He cares about the big things. Last week I met Anna Marie and Karen for lunch in La Grange, TX. It is situated
within 2 hours of each of us. I am in Richmond, Karen is in Austin, and Anna Marie is in San Antonio. We had a wonderful time in fellowship, food, and shopping. (I hate to shop and had a blast.) As we were leaving, I started my car and it made a weird click then started. The next day the car was fine as I drove to church. It made an odd click as I left church. Monday morning it only clicked. The battery was DEAD. Is there a safer, more convenient location to have car trouble? No. (Well possibly the car dealership or parts store, but for the sake of this blog - No) Having a dead car in the drive way sure beats having a dead car in La Grange, TX!
We should not worry, I know it's much easier not to worry about the small things in life. But we must not worry about the big things either. We must trust the Lord. He is bigger than the US Govt, a recession, cancer, a failing marriage - He is GOD!
Matthew 6:25-26 tells us: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
God takes care of us. Does it always work out the way we want it to - No. But He has a plan, He sees the big picture, we don't. We tend to see the here and now.
As 2010 speeds by like a comet hurtling through space, I want to continue pressing in His word totally believing what He promises to me and living it out.
Many of you know I have been battling an upper respiratory infection for 2 months. Until last week, I felt bad and worked from bed many days, slept at lunch and slept from 5pm to 8pm or so and went back to bed at 10pm until 8am the next day. I am proud to say I am much, MUCH better and I now can comprehend what I read in His word again.
One Saturday when I felt my worst, I had to launder the sheets and blankets. It was cold, raining, and very damp so I washed the flannel sheets and fleece blankets which were on the bed. I loaded the sheets in the washer, started the washer and went back into the bedroom to sleep on top of the blankets. I woke up and decided to flip on the TV, no remote...oh no...where is it? (Not sure the man can function without it.)I searched high and low and then thought it's in the washer. I opened the washer there it was in the sheets. Amazingly enough, the washer had begun the 1st cycle but stopped. The remote was not even wet. I pulled it out, slammed the door shut and the washer started up and washed the load of sheets properly.
I personally think God intervened on my behalf. It's a small thing, but He cares about the small things just as He cares about the big things. Last week I met Anna Marie and Karen for lunch in La Grange, TX. It is situated
within 2 hours of each of us. I am in Richmond, Karen is in Austin, and Anna Marie is in San Antonio. We had a wonderful time in fellowship, food, and shopping. (I hate to shop and had a blast.) As we were leaving, I started my car and it made a weird click then started. The next day the car was fine as I drove to church. It made an odd click as I left church. Monday morning it only clicked. The battery was DEAD. Is there a safer, more convenient location to have car trouble? No. (Well possibly the car dealership or parts store, but for the sake of this blog - No) Having a dead car in the drive way sure beats having a dead car in La Grange, TX!
We should not worry, I know it's much easier not to worry about the small things in life. But we must not worry about the big things either. We must trust the Lord. He is bigger than the US Govt, a recession, cancer, a failing marriage - He is GOD!
Matthew 6:25-26 tells us: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
God takes care of us. Does it always work out the way we want it to - No. But He has a plan, He sees the big picture, we don't. We tend to see the here and now.
As 2010 speeds by like a comet hurtling through space, I want to continue pressing in His word totally believing what He promises to me and living it out.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Thursday, April 1, 2010
A Day which Really Touches Me
Today is Maundy Thursday on the liturgical calendar. One of my favorite days, a day which really touches me. I am going to get out of bed and go to church tonight. I've had an upper respiratory infection for 6 weeks, it let up a little 2 weeks ago, I got excited and went to the rodeo 3 times, dumb idea. Should have remained in bed and prayer. If you own stock in Vicks Vapor rub, allergy medications and or Kleenex, I have increased your income a lot!
I've been able to pray a lot, but have no idea what I read a few minutes after I read it, therefore no blogging. Anyway - ENOUGH whining and back to Maundy Thurs. Today we celebrate the first Communion.
Luke 22: 14When the hour came, Jesus and his apostles reclined at the table. 15And he said to them, "I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. 16For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God."
17After taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, "Take this and divide it among you. 18For I tell you I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes."
19And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me."
20In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you. 21But the hand of him who is going to betray me is with mine on the table. 22The Son of Man will go as it has been decreed, but woe to that man who betrays him." 23They began to question among themselves which of them it might be who would do this.
It boggles my mind...His Body, His Blood - Our salvation...our healing...our restoration...we are in covenant with God the Father.
Easter Blessings to You All!!!
I've been able to pray a lot, but have no idea what I read a few minutes after I read it, therefore no blogging. Anyway - ENOUGH whining and back to Maundy Thurs. Today we celebrate the first Communion.
Luke 22: 14When the hour came, Jesus and his apostles reclined at the table. 15And he said to them, "I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. 16For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God."
17After taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, "Take this and divide it among you. 18For I tell you I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes."
19And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me."
20In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you. 21But the hand of him who is going to betray me is with mine on the table. 22The Son of Man will go as it has been decreed, but woe to that man who betrays him." 23They began to question among themselves which of them it might be who would do this.
It boggles my mind...His Body, His Blood - Our salvation...our healing...our restoration...we are in covenant with God the Father.
Easter Blessings to You All!!!
Monday, March 1, 2010
March 1st...
How can it be March 1st already??? It's cold and raining today, but spring is about to burst on the scene. Our plum trees are blooming. Azaleas should bloom soon and then Texas will be bathed in wildflowers...our beloved bluebonnets are just around the corner. The 2010 Winter Olympics have come to a close, the rodeo is about to begin and time marches on from one season to another. (I am not so much a summer person but I know my sisters up north are really ready for winter to close and soooo ready for spring and summer.)
I chose another verse from Psalm 119 as my memory verse: Your word, O LORD, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens.
We are so fortunate to have God's Word at our disposal. In America, we can buy a Bible at the grocery store, we can attend Bible study, we can freely attend church. Let us be thankful for this and never take it for granted.
Leave me a comment with your memory verses. I love knowing which verses you are hiding in your heart.
Stay in the Word!
Love, Annette
I chose another verse from Psalm 119 as my memory verse: Your word, O LORD, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens.
We are so fortunate to have God's Word at our disposal. In America, we can buy a Bible at the grocery store, we can attend Bible study, we can freely attend church. Let us be thankful for this and never take it for granted.
Leave me a comment with your memory verses. I love knowing which verses you are hiding in your heart.
Stay in the Word!
Love, Annette
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Monday, February 22, 2010
Olympics and Upper Respiratory Infection
I have been battling an upper respiratory infection for almost a week, it has drained my energy in a big way. At least the Olympics are on now, I would rather watch them (though I slept through the men's ice skating) than most of the drivel offered on TV. I stayed in bed from 2:00pm Friday through 8:00am today. So much work poured in this morning, it's like it was before the economy tanked. Please join me in praising the Lord for this and also pray for me to completely shake this thing.
Thanks and Love,
Annette
Thanks and Love,
Annette
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Moses Heard the Whining...
Can anyone else identify with Numbers 11:10 Moses heard the whining, all those families whining in front of their tents. God's anger blazed up. Moses saw that things were in a bad way. 11 -15 Moses said to God, "Why are you treating me this way? What did I ever do to you to deserve this? Did I conceive them? Was I their mother? So why dump the responsibility of this people on me? Why tell me to carry them around like a nursing mother, carry them all the way to the land you promised to their ancestors? Where am I supposed to get meat for all these people who are whining to me, 'Give us meat; we want meat.' I can't do this by myself—it's too much, all these people. If this is how you intend to treat me, do me a favor and kill me. I've seen enough; I've had enough. Let me out of here."
If you've experienced similar emotions at one time or another, was it caused by family (spouse, a 2 year old, teens, a MOTHER IN LAW) or coworkers/boss? Sometimes when we say the I've had enough thing, get me out of here, I did not sign up for this God (I really told God I didn't sign up for something when 2 people in a pastoral care ministry were fighting with one another and each called me to describe in vivid detail what they said to one another and what they thought of one another.). None of what they said or thought was Christ like, but guess what, neither was my reaction when I went to God over it. For a few days, I did not ask Him to give me the words to say or ask Him to place an angel on my lips if I were to remain silent. I did not pray for each woman to die to self, forgive, and walk in love and holiness. But I certainly whined to God for a week or so. Theses 2 women were whining, murmuring and complaining, but so was I as I told God what I thought. I was not quiet and did not listen to Him - in fact I didn't let Him talk for nearly a week.
We are human just like the Israelites, we will murmur and complain and whine upon occasion, but we must remember how God feels about and repent quickly. We must ask forgiveness for our words and the attitudes of our heart concerning what ever situation brought on the whining.
I pray our words are Christ like and our hearts are filled with His love and we pour out His love in every situation of our lives. Remember seasons change...Joy comes, don't get bogged down 1/2 way to the Promised Land. Ask for prayer when you need it and stay in the Word.
If you've experienced similar emotions at one time or another, was it caused by family (spouse, a 2 year old, teens, a MOTHER IN LAW) or coworkers/boss? Sometimes when we say the I've had enough thing, get me out of here, I did not sign up for this God (I really told God I didn't sign up for something when 2 people in a pastoral care ministry were fighting with one another and each called me to describe in vivid detail what they said to one another and what they thought of one another.). None of what they said or thought was Christ like, but guess what, neither was my reaction when I went to God over it. For a few days, I did not ask Him to give me the words to say or ask Him to place an angel on my lips if I were to remain silent. I did not pray for each woman to die to self, forgive, and walk in love and holiness. But I certainly whined to God for a week or so. Theses 2 women were whining, murmuring and complaining, but so was I as I told God what I thought. I was not quiet and did not listen to Him - in fact I didn't let Him talk for nearly a week.
We are human just like the Israelites, we will murmur and complain and whine upon occasion, but we must remember how God feels about and repent quickly. We must ask forgiveness for our words and the attitudes of our heart concerning what ever situation brought on the whining.
I pray our words are Christ like and our hearts are filled with His love and we pour out His love in every situation of our lives. Remember seasons change...Joy comes, don't get bogged down 1/2 way to the Promised Land. Ask for prayer when you need it and stay in the Word.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Roses, Chocolates, and Valentine Cards
This time of year takes me down memory lane to hand made Valentines cards - doilies were key to most of my endeavors along with red and white construction paper and crayons. Occasionally I would be quite artistic - really stretch as an artist and use light pink paper, white doilies and a magenta crayon. I would also address a little Valentine card for each member of my class and place them in the individually hand decorated white lunch bags at the back of the classroom.
Each year my father bought my mother a card and chocolates, he bought me a card and a box of Red Hots. (I'm allergic to chocolate, but eat it anyway.)
I looked forward to the little hearts stamped with Be Mine, etc. I loved the way the hearts looked but didn't really care for the taste.
As I grew older, I expected the flame of the moment to buy me a card and maybe spring for a meal at the Pizza Hut or Sonic. I met my husband in 1981, I had higher expectations by then jewelry was nice as were roses and a nice meal.
The day is supposed to be all about love, but as a Christian I am to live each day walking in love. The love represented by Valentine's Day is not the kind of love God is talking about. I wonder how non believers’ lives would be impacted by our loving them the way Jesus does? No condemnation, no reproach, no hypocrisy, no self righteousness, no hint of a Pharisee in sight. Many times we say the Word but our actions are quite the opposite. Non believers notice.
My endeavor in 2010 is to live out God’s Word and that means living in love.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
Each year my father bought my mother a card and chocolates, he bought me a card and a box of Red Hots. (I'm allergic to chocolate, but eat it anyway.)
I looked forward to the little hearts stamped with Be Mine, etc. I loved the way the hearts looked but didn't really care for the taste.
As I grew older, I expected the flame of the moment to buy me a card and maybe spring for a meal at the Pizza Hut or Sonic. I met my husband in 1981, I had higher expectations by then jewelry was nice as were roses and a nice meal.
The day is supposed to be all about love, but as a Christian I am to live each day walking in love. The love represented by Valentine's Day is not the kind of love God is talking about. I wonder how non believers’ lives would be impacted by our loving them the way Jesus does? No condemnation, no reproach, no hypocrisy, no self righteousness, no hint of a Pharisee in sight. Many times we say the Word but our actions are quite the opposite. Non believers notice.
My endeavor in 2010 is to live out God’s Word and that means living in love.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
It's the Year of Jubilee...
Today is Annette's (of Annie's Eyes Blog) birthday. We 1st met through Beth Moore's blog a couple years ago. We then did what we tell children not to do - we met in person over lunch and she came to my annual coffee (I gave her my address and phone number.). Since the day we met in person, we've had the privledge to worship together a few times and of course shared a couple more meals.
I am so thankful the Lord put Annette in my life. I pray 2010 is truly a year of Jubilee for you - my precious Sister in Christ.
Happy Birthday! I love you.
I am so thankful the Lord put Annette in my life. I pray 2010 is truly a year of Jubilee for you - my precious Sister in Christ.
Happy Birthday! I love you.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Egypt or the Promised Land
Today's readings in the chronological year through the Bible are Lev. 22 and 23, a book which many people use to illustrate their point the Bible is no longer relevant. (You hear it all in denominational church, many say Paul was not a disciple, his stuff is no good.) Lev 22:32-33, "Don't desecrate my name. I insist on being treated with holy reverence among the People of Israel. I am God who makes you holy and brought you out of Egypt to be your God. I am God."
As New Covenant Girls, we are spiritually delivered from the bondage of Egypt. By living for God and dying to self, by repenting and confessing our sins we remain free. In the words of my friend Norma Dearing, keep your accounts short, confess and repent immediately, don't wait until later. When we forget or refuse to confess and turn away from our sins we are heading right back to Egypt. I want to live spiritually in the Promised Land not in Egypt which spiritually is a land of bondage and a desert...if you find yourself headed back to Egypt, call a friend to pray with you. Leave me a comment, I will pray for you.
2010 is my year to live out the Word, live victoriously, the chains of bondage are gone, I've been set free and as a believer so have you!
Stay in the Word!
As New Covenant Girls, we are spiritually delivered from the bondage of Egypt. By living for God and dying to self, by repenting and confessing our sins we remain free. In the words of my friend Norma Dearing, keep your accounts short, confess and repent immediately, don't wait until later. When we forget or refuse to confess and turn away from our sins we are heading right back to Egypt. I want to live spiritually in the Promised Land not in Egypt which spiritually is a land of bondage and a desert...if you find yourself headed back to Egypt, call a friend to pray with you. Leave me a comment, I will pray for you.
2010 is my year to live out the Word, live victoriously, the chains of bondage are gone, I've been set free and as a believer so have you!
Stay in the Word!
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
SMT Verse 3, 2010
Seriously, how can we be on our 3rd verse of the year!!! It seems it was just Thanksgiving. And if the truth be told, I still don't really know my 2nd verse.
I chose Psalm 119:105 because it means so much to me and like everything else in the Bible - it is TRUE...Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.
I plan on camping out in Psalm 119 the next few weeks using The Message, NIV and Amplified versions of the Bible. Psalm 119 refers to God's word quite a bit.
We must be careful not to analyze His word so much we fill our heads with it instead of our hearts. I want to truly live out His word, I want 2010 to be a year in which I continue to die to self and grow in Christ.
Feast on these words from Psalm 119:
33 Teach me, O LORD, to follow your decrees;
then I will keep them to the end.
34 Give me understanding, and I will keep your law
and obey it with all my heart.
35 Direct me in the path of your commands,
for there I find delight.
36 Turn my heart toward your statutes
and not toward selfish gain.
37 Turn my eyes away from worthless things;
preserve my life according to your word. [b]
I chose Psalm 119:105 because it means so much to me and like everything else in the Bible - it is TRUE...Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.
I plan on camping out in Psalm 119 the next few weeks using The Message, NIV and Amplified versions of the Bible. Psalm 119 refers to God's word quite a bit.
We must be careful not to analyze His word so much we fill our heads with it instead of our hearts. I want to truly live out His word, I want 2010 to be a year in which I continue to die to self and grow in Christ.
Feast on these words from Psalm 119:
33 Teach me, O LORD, to follow your decrees;
then I will keep them to the end.
34 Give me understanding, and I will keep your law
and obey it with all my heart.
35 Direct me in the path of your commands,
for there I find delight.
36 Turn my heart toward your statutes
and not toward selfish gain.
37 Turn my eyes away from worthless things;
preserve my life according to your word. [b]
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Thursday, January 28, 2010
One Year Ago
About this time one year ago, I drove my father to the hospital, he died that afternoon. I am still sorry I was not there because I returned to work for an hour, but I am glad my last words to him were, "I love you."
So many of you prayed for him, my mother, and me for 2 years. I am so thankful for the prayers.
I am not sad today secure in the knowledge of where he is...
Remember Earth is our temporary home, we are going to live in a place with no tears, no sickness, no disease, no war, no poverty and no sin!
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true."
So many of you prayed for him, my mother, and me for 2 years. I am so thankful for the prayers.
I am not sad today secure in the knowledge of where he is...
Remember Earth is our temporary home, we are going to live in a place with no tears, no sickness, no disease, no war, no poverty and no sin!
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true."
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Scripture
Please leave a comment with your favorite (if there is such a thing) verse and or a verse/verses you have used to stand during a situation or a verse you are currently using as you face life...I gathered verses 2 years ago friends sent to me; the Holy Spirit led me to write a prayer with them. We'll see what happens this year.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Spending Saturday with My Sisters in Christ
Saturday I met Angie in person...it was such a joy and delight...I have read her blog for nearly 2 years. I caught the end of the final praise and worship at the Beth Moore Siesta Weekend in Houston, the presence of the Lord almost knocked me over when I entered the room.
Annette G (Annie's Eyes Blog), Ang and I went to lunch. I still cannot believe I have met 2 of my blogging sisters in person. Gives me hope, I will meet more of you before we are dancing together on streets of gold.
I spent a lot of time in the yard planting flowers yesterday, 120 of them, 40 more to go...can I just tell you I need aspirin and Ben Gay! Just as I plant flowers in the yard, I am going to plant God's word in my heart this year, though it will probably be 12-20 verses this year,
Have a blessed week and stay in the Word!
Have a blessed week!
Annette G (Annie's Eyes Blog), Ang and I went to lunch. I still cannot believe I have met 2 of my blogging sisters in person. Gives me hope, I will meet more of you before we are dancing together on streets of gold.
I spent a lot of time in the yard planting flowers yesterday, 120 of them, 40 more to go...can I just tell you I need aspirin and Ben Gay! Just as I plant flowers in the yard, I am going to plant God's word in my heart this year, though it will probably be 12-20 verses this year,
Have a blessed week and stay in the Word!
Have a blessed week!
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Friday, January 15, 2010
Let's Run with Joy to the Finish Line
The Houston Marathon is this weekend, maybe that's why I have a picture of running. My new memory verse is:
Hebrews 12: 1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
Sometimes I think we treat life like a sprint, a walk, a trot, or a dash- but in reality our life on earth is a marathon. Some of the marathon is like running on a smooth, flat surface. Some of it is like running uphill on a severely rutted road filled with pot holes. The good news is Jesus is with us all the way. He is with us on the flat surface, He is with us running up the rutted road and right along side us as we run downhill. We forget He even carries us.
We don't know when we'll cross the finish line, but God the Father Almighty does.
Let us keep our eyes on Jesus, pressing onward - knowing we will spend eternity in heaven!
Hebrews 12: 1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
Sometimes I think we treat life like a sprint, a walk, a trot, or a dash- but in reality our life on earth is a marathon. Some of the marathon is like running on a smooth, flat surface. Some of it is like running uphill on a severely rutted road filled with pot holes. The good news is Jesus is with us all the way. He is with us on the flat surface, He is with us running up the rutted road and right along side us as we run downhill. We forget He even carries us.
We don't know when we'll cross the finish line, but God the Father Almighty does.
Let us keep our eyes on Jesus, pressing onward - knowing we will spend eternity in heaven!
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Friday, January 8, 2010
Praise Report
Lisa had more tests conducted on her pancreas, the spot was still there. Then she had the MRI and the spot was gone. She does NOT have cancer of the pancreas. Thank You Lord!!! We praise You and thank You and give You all the glory!
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Back to Egypt
The Bible has a few examples of people looking back instead of looking forward, pressing toward the finish line with their eyes on the promised Messiah.
Lot drug his feet and really did not want to leave town, his wife looked back...some of the most famous words in the Bible are found in Gen. 19: 26 But Lot's wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt. She looked back, let's face it their life was not so great in their former home. Sin abounded, Lot offered his daughters to the depraved men who were trying to break into his house.
To me the most astounding story of looking back is the story of the Israelites thinking this is the pits, let's go back to being slaves in Egypt.
Numbers 20:2 Now there was no water for the community, and the people gathered in opposition to Moses and Aaron. 3 They quarreled with Moses and said, "If only we had died when our brothers fell dead before the LORD! 4 Why did you bring the LORD's community into this desert, that we and our livestock should die here? 5 Why did you bring us up out of Egypt to this terrible place? It has no grain or figs, grapevines or pomegranates. And there is no water to drink!"
Think of the miracles and provision these people experienced!!! How soon they forgot and thought - slavery smavery, it was not so bad, we had a lot of food choices. Before we think what was wrong with those people, we have to remember we are those people.
Many times an old situation which is not healthy, or a relationship which is not pleasing to God, or even an old habit is so familiar it seems better than the here and now and the future. We need to keep our eyes on the Lord and press forward - following Him.
Feast on the words from Phil 3:12Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
The next time you feel like returning to Egypt take a deep breath and look toward the Lord and race for Him.
Lot drug his feet and really did not want to leave town, his wife looked back...some of the most famous words in the Bible are found in Gen. 19: 26 But Lot's wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt. She looked back, let's face it their life was not so great in their former home. Sin abounded, Lot offered his daughters to the depraved men who were trying to break into his house.
To me the most astounding story of looking back is the story of the Israelites thinking this is the pits, let's go back to being slaves in Egypt.
Numbers 20:2 Now there was no water for the community, and the people gathered in opposition to Moses and Aaron. 3 They quarreled with Moses and said, "If only we had died when our brothers fell dead before the LORD! 4 Why did you bring the LORD's community into this desert, that we and our livestock should die here? 5 Why did you bring us up out of Egypt to this terrible place? It has no grain or figs, grapevines or pomegranates. And there is no water to drink!"
Think of the miracles and provision these people experienced!!! How soon they forgot and thought - slavery smavery, it was not so bad, we had a lot of food choices. Before we think what was wrong with those people, we have to remember we are those people.
Many times an old situation which is not healthy, or a relationship which is not pleasing to God, or even an old habit is so familiar it seems better than the here and now and the future. We need to keep our eyes on the Lord and press forward - following Him.
Feast on the words from Phil 3:12Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
The next time you feel like returning to Egypt take a deep breath and look toward the Lord and race for Him.
Monday, January 4, 2010
A Shadow and Fear
My friend Lisa had extensive medical tests last week so her endicrinologist can figure out what is going on with her.
A spot which may be a shadow was discovered on her pancreas which has caused Lisa great fear. I am praying for a completely healthy pancreas and for her to be spiritually whole in Christ Jesus and to have a fresh revelation of God's love for her. I pray she knows He really REALLY loves her, in fact that He's crazy about her.
This is a situation in which having Scripture hidden in our heart is a bonus, the enemy loves to attack our thought life as we lie in bed at night trying to sleep while waiting on test results. He whispers - it's cancer, you'll probably die. When we know Scripture we can combat these lies with the Living Word of God which is sharper than a double edged sword.
Is Lisa's situation serious, it might be, it might be nothing at all. Great I Am is bigger than any foe we have. Our God, Our Shield, the Great I Am is bigger than any foe. If you need prayer, please leave a comment...
Let the words from Psalm 103 wash over you...bathe you, permeqte the very fiber of your being. Please pray for Lisa as well...
Praise the LORD, O my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
2 Praise the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits-
3 who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
4 who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
5 who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
A spot which may be a shadow was discovered on her pancreas which has caused Lisa great fear. I am praying for a completely healthy pancreas and for her to be spiritually whole in Christ Jesus and to have a fresh revelation of God's love for her. I pray she knows He really REALLY loves her, in fact that He's crazy about her.
This is a situation in which having Scripture hidden in our heart is a bonus, the enemy loves to attack our thought life as we lie in bed at night trying to sleep while waiting on test results. He whispers - it's cancer, you'll probably die. When we know Scripture we can combat these lies with the Living Word of God which is sharper than a double edged sword.
Is Lisa's situation serious, it might be, it might be nothing at all. Great I Am is bigger than any foe we have. Our God, Our Shield, the Great I Am is bigger than any foe. If you need prayer, please leave a comment...
Let the words from Psalm 103 wash over you...bathe you, permeqte the very fiber of your being. Please pray for Lisa as well...
Praise the LORD, O my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
2 Praise the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits-
3 who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
4 who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
5 who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Friday, January 1, 2010
Jan 1, 2010
A new year, a new decade, magazines with advice on everything from how to declutter to walk off 40 lbs in the new year, television shows and news segments on how to keep your resolutions.
One problem with resolutions is they are usually focused on self which is not necessarily a good thing. A resolution may seem like a wonderful idea but it may not get down to the root of the problem you want to correct.
I prefer goals. I have 3 goals this year, they are (you knew I would share):
To Grow in Christ Jesus
To Live out His Word
To become physically and spiritually fit
At the end of August I went on a diet, I have knocked off 31 lbs, have another 30 to go. I gained 35 lbs the 1st six weeks dad was in the hospital in 2008. My doctor told me part of my problem (besides eating too much during this time, eating junk all of 2008 when he was in the hospital for so long), not exercising enough, some of this was stress induced, my adrenal glands were shot, my thyroid is not low, but is at the very low end of normal. I was glad to hear this because I was beginning to believe I was a lazy woman who ate too much. (We will not discuss what I ate at my coffee yesterday and anyway Leslie, verified the dark chocolate cupcakes were indeed filled with antioxidants!)
So in keeping with a new year and a new decade, I want you to remember we are new creatures in Chirst Jesus, He renews our minds, He gives us a new heart of flesh...in Him we have NEW life.
Let's celebrate the new. Let's keep our eyes on Him.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Happy New Year! Stay in the Word, The Word brings life!
One problem with resolutions is they are usually focused on self which is not necessarily a good thing. A resolution may seem like a wonderful idea but it may not get down to the root of the problem you want to correct.
I prefer goals. I have 3 goals this year, they are (you knew I would share):
To Grow in Christ Jesus
To Live out His Word
To become physically and spiritually fit
At the end of August I went on a diet, I have knocked off 31 lbs, have another 30 to go. I gained 35 lbs the 1st six weeks dad was in the hospital in 2008. My doctor told me part of my problem (besides eating too much during this time, eating junk all of 2008 when he was in the hospital for so long), not exercising enough, some of this was stress induced, my adrenal glands were shot, my thyroid is not low, but is at the very low end of normal. I was glad to hear this because I was beginning to believe I was a lazy woman who ate too much. (We will not discuss what I ate at my coffee yesterday and anyway Leslie, verified the dark chocolate cupcakes were indeed filled with antioxidants!)
So in keeping with a new year and a new decade, I want you to remember we are new creatures in Chirst Jesus, He renews our minds, He gives us a new heart of flesh...in Him we have NEW life.
Let's celebrate the new. Let's keep our eyes on Him.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Happy New Year! Stay in the Word, The Word brings life!
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