Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Our Time On Earth

Today's Prime Time with God talks of Revelations and the end of time. I thought this paragraph had a very good message.

"We are all moving toward a day in which we will be judged: "The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books" (Rev 20:12-13). Ultimately, we will all reign with Christ in a new heaven and earth (Rev 21). How you live your life now will determine your role in the new heaven and earth.

Your life on earth is a mere blink on the scale of time. Whatever hardships you've faced on earth will pale in comparison to the glory that is to be revealed when the marriage of the Bride of Christ takes place on that final day.

Be faithful. Stand firm. And see the glory of the Lord. Amen."

I've been thinking about that often. I try really hard to pay attention to my attitude and actions. Because we will be judged. I don't know about you, but I want to be accepted into the kingdom of heaven with our Father. I want to meet Jesus. I want to be reunited with family. I want to meet hubby's mother for the first time.

For those that believe that as long as you have accepted Christ into your heart then you are guaranteed a spot in heaven, perhaps you should go back and read the Bible again. There are certian rules to follow. Any way, check out the message.

Sugar Cookie Variations

I missed Tempt My Tummy Tuesdays thus far. Good grief. So to make up for it. I'm going to offer a new invention I came up with last night with sugar cookies. I never did finish up the Christmas cookie dough. :( So the girls & I had fun with them yesterday, not doing cut outs, just cutting some off the roll and putting what ever they wanted on them.

I had some left over heath topping and butterscotch chips. So take some sugar and sprinkle dough lightly, then sprinkle heath topping over that. If you like butterscotch, a few butterscotch chips put the final taste bud experience exploding! (yes, I love butterscotch).

Other variations are to use semi-sweet chocolate chips, chocolate chunks, vanilla chips, white chocolate, or what ever else your favorite topping is.

I've also used orange peel in the cookie dough that gives a special taste along with almond flavoring which I absolutely loved. Using both is another idea. Have fun and enjoy!

Oh yeah, m&m's & peanut m&m's are good as well! ;)

New Years with Kids?

Go on over to Kates blog, "A Simple Walk" to see some fab ideas for celebrating New Years Eve at Home or with family and the Kids. She has some links to some great sites to learn of great ideas for food, crafts, and activities. Sounds good to me. Been wondering what to do with the grand kids if they stay the night. :)

Help!

I almost forgot. Son-in-law to be asked if I knew of a good New Years blacke-eyed-pea recipe. I don't know of one. But I'm betting someone out there knows of one or more. Turns out his manager ordered a bunch of black-eyed-peas to put on display at the grocery outlet he works at. He said they do not normally move very fast, so I told him I could probably find good people here willing to help out. We talked about putting out a recipe card with the display to hopefully help them sell. Thanks a bunch. I love you all!

Catch Up?

Good evening all. I really should be in bed right now. I have to be to my chiropractic appt. by 8:15 am, but I have so much going through my head right now. First off, the day was a success. The two girls and baby were all terriffic today!!! Yeah! We had a blast. This was the best day we've had in a while.


But of course with a beautiful day comes a glitch. Well, of course that is exagerating, as good days don't always come with a glitch. But today was one of them. I recieved a call from daughters fiance'. She had fallen as she got off work and twisted her ankle. She was in quite a bit of pain and was in need of ice when I brought the kids home. So hubby and I load the kids up and head over. She had quite a goose egg on the outside on the ankle bone and a smaller one on the inside. So hubby and girls took mom to the clinic. Sure enough, she had sprained it, but not real bad as far as they could tell. Whew!


I offered to spend the night there to help, but her fiance' had put water bottles, formula, diapers and wipes all on the head board of the bed so she would not have to get up. The girls are big enough to care for themselves until fiance' gets home in the morning. The oldest was upset and wanted Omah to sleep over. She was worried that she wouldn't be able to take care of mommy. She's such a sweet blessing. She's our little helper. Ever known a child who loves to clean, (do dishes, cook, sweep, mop, help clean the bathroom, dust, and do laundry), well she does. I love it and pray she stays that way. Her little sister on the other hand, well if it's fun, okay, but otherwise, no way. She's great for making messes in her room and lets everyone else clean up after her. Grrrr.



Okay, off track here. That's me. So when I get home, (night time and early morning are my blogging times), I decided to catch up on some blogging. That's when I came across some really cool new blogs which I've added to my list and then read the story about Coleman. So now I'm wound up and decided to post about an issue that is very much one that I needed. So I'm going to cut and paste the post into a word document for now and post my message, then post this one. ;)

I guess maybe I am tired. I realized as I was typing the sentence about the needed subject, that this post would be read after the the post I was talking about. (Did you get all that?) Boy, am I having a duh night! Good thing I have 3 days off instead of two this week. Yahooooo! I guess this is a good lead into the next post anyhow. It talks about some of this very yo-yo whirligig, circle talking thing I'm doing right now. Okay, enough of the silly talk. The next post is a good one, that others may share the need with me. LOL

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Are You Using Your Time Wisely?

Oh yes, how I love Crosswalk, along with so many other insightful spiritual newsletters. This one comes from Crosswalks Daily Update: Invest Your Time Wisely. Oh how I so needed this message. Some of you may too. Of course you know the routine. Click on Crosswalk.com on my side bar to go there.

So to give you an idea of what this message is about, it starts with:

"You’re always busy, yet never seem to accomplish all you want or enjoy the way you spend your time. Sound familiar? If so, you can learn how to invest your most valuable resource – time – in what matters most.

Here’s how you can invest your time wisely:"

The following are the titles of the categories discussed:
1. Start a relationship with Jesus Christ. (For those of us that already have, know the importance of this one. I pray others will learn as well.

2. Identify Your Time Traps. (Okay, this is one I definitely need to work on. Shhh, don't tell anyone.)

3. Be called instead of driven. (Okay, what in the world does this one mean?) Well this means are we called by the Lord to do what we do with our time, or are we trying to do it on our own? Are we just, so to speak, spinning our wheels with no purpose in hand?

4.Check your schedule against your priorities. (Huh? Really? We should be doing that?)

5. Deal with feeling overwhelmed. (Yeah right! How in the world does one do that when they kids everywhere? Ha ha, J/K!)

6. Deal with procrastination. (Ah shoot, I don't have a problem with that one! Yeah right! This is my big downfall. I've been working on it though. Our Pastor has talked about this very subject. Geesh, I need to get with the program.)

7. Deal with pressure from others. (Okay, if we have to. Actually, I have to say this is one since attending services for a little over two years now--gosh, doesn't seem that long!--I'm finally getting past what others think, say, and do. Woo hoo! Free at last! Thank you God!)

8. Deal with self stress. (Okay, how does one do that if we are the ones bringing it on ourselves???).

9. Make time for your loved ones. (Now this I can totally see, understand, and desire to do better with. So important, yet they seem to be the ones that get left behind all too easily when times get busy. Hmm, seems I done a post on this one not all that long ago--about slowing down.)

10. Invest your time in work that matters. (Hmmm, makes sense.)

11. Remember that time is money, and money is time. (Oh boy, does this bring back some memories. I used to say this almost very same thing to my crew at the last place I worked, and I believe at the one before that when we were in Germany. Oh yeah, and even stuck my foot in my mouth while up helping my little sister where she worked, filling in for a mom on maternity leave. I have a hard time with skaters/slackers, what ever you want to call them. I figure if you are getting paid to do a job, then by golly you had better be doing it. Well that goes for when one volunteers too. If you have time to stand around jollywhopping and what not, then you might as well clock out and go home. Now don't get me wrong. Customer service is very important. You have to make customers feel welcomed, that they are important, and you have their interest at heart. But...you don't have to stand around conversing with friends, co-workers and so on when there is work to be done. You can do that during your breaks and before and after work. Talking with co-workers can be done while working. But for some strange reason, when someone is talking, all work ceases?!?!?! I wanted to yell at times, "honey, trust me, it is possible to move your mouth, hands, and feet at the same time and you won't break!" Ewww, a bit harsh huh? I guess this all stemmed from my dad being a very hard working man, then going into the military, then marrying a perfectionist. Aggghhhh, they were all around me all throughout life. I can't help it if I expect someone to do their job with pride! Is that asking too much? Whoa girl, got way off track here. Yikes. Sorry all. Hee hee. Wind me up and watch me go. I guess there is a message here though.

Take pride in what you do. Put your best foot forward. Do it with the Lord shining through all that you do. Any way. I didn't mean to turn this into a tongue lashing post, a complaint session, and what not. I also wasn't trying to make a joke out of the list of things to follow. They are all good. It's just my way of laughing at myself for the ways that I get caught up in and need to change. The message is excellant, well worth reading. Yes it's a big lengthy, just like my post (blushing), but hey, would I lead you to something not worthwhile. No way!

Well you all have a great night/day, and God Bless each and everyone of you. You are all special!

Prayer Request

My heart is breaking. I hate to see anyone suffer, but especially kids. This family is going through some tough times. I happened on to Laura's blog who is keeping updates going on Coleman's life. He is a 5 year old, (just turned 5 Dec. 10th), and is battling cancer. He has been fighting it since age 2 1/2. He has a twin brother who is having a hard time with understanding it all. The parents are leaning on the Lord and need our prayers. There is also a site to go to, to light a candle that lasts for 48 hours at a time where you can light a candle and say a prayer for Coleman. This little boy and his family needs us. Let's all take a stand, light a candle every 48 hours and bless this boy and his family. There is also a link to where one can go to Coleman's care page. I have not tried it yet. Here is the link and instructions for lighting a candle: (Taken from Laura's page) keep Lighting a candles for Team LArson as they only last for 48 hours http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=csl group name is CSL

I know there are a lot of people who have a heart and are in the Lord, please be praying and lighting candles. The power of prayer is unbeatable. God Bless You

Personal Gift Analysis

Have you ever recieved a personal gifst analysis? Capitol Christian Center does this as well as Prime Time with God. I just recently took mine with PTWG to see if there was much differnce in that outcome. There wasn't a whole lot. Over time we do change, and Im sure that's why the difference in the two reports. It's really an eye opener to do this. The good part it shows your where you need to be with your gifts and how to build them. Simply go to PTWG and click on Free Gifts Analysis I believe it that is what it is called. You will know when you see it. Good luck and enjoy.

Avoiding Conflict

In today's Prime Time with God, it said: "Many people hate conflict to the point they will never confront a wrong. Taking this path will only lead to later hardship. Such was the case for Absalom and his father King David." You can read the rest of the message by clicking the link to PTWG on the side bar.

This is a very good subject. I am very guilty of this one. Today's message was meant for people like myself. It's amazing how we can read things and not see the whole message clearly. Today's message has me doing some serious thinking.

For instance, there has been a wedge between my sister next in age for years. I have avoided the subject with here to avoid conflict. I've thought of the possibility of clearing the air with her. Now I realize this is something that should have been done a long time ago. It eats me up inside. All it does is cause more and more tension.

I've learned a lot from hubby's small group "letters from dad." I've come to realize how important it is to write and give to those that we hold dear in our hearts. Perhaps this is a route that can break that ever looming cloud that hangs between us. I know the Lord will lead the way and break that barrier between us.

Oh how I love His teachings, His timimg, His word.

A Sue Happ Society?

Wow, timing! My son is listening to a pod cast right now and it is on hypocrisy. The pod cast is on Searchlight by Jon Courson. The story he shared reminded me of what a sue happy society we've become. It saddens me to hear how so many are suing for reasons that are just too far fetched. Have we become that desperate? I pray that these people will allow the Lord into their hearts and stop the idiosyncrasy's that allow them to react.

The story he was telling me about was a man that went in to have his stomach stapled as he had a serious eating habit. After the surgery, the man became hungry, so he got up, went to the nurses station and raided their refrigerator. In so doing, he popped the staples and ended up having another surgery. He is now suing the hospital for half a mil because they did not have the fridge locked! What????

It's because of people such as they that our medical costs keep climbing. Doctors get worried that they are going to be sued and hence come the higher costs so they can protect themselves from people of greed. Who can blame them?

Proverbs 28:25 reads: "A greedy person provokes conflict, but whoever trusts in the Lord will prosper." NKJV

1 Corinthians 6:9-11 reads:

9"Do you knot know that the unjust will not inherit God's kingdom? Do not be deceived: no sexually immoral people, idolaters, adulterers, male prostitues, homosexuals, 10 thieves, greedy people, drunkards, revilers, or swindlers will inherit God's kingdom. 11 Some of you were like this; but you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of God." NKJV

This is why we must pray as a group for these people to be saved. To pray that they will be saved before committing more of these atrocities that continue to hurt more and more people. Greed is a sin, greed does keep one from being with the Lord.

In Luke 12:15 we are warned of this: "He then told them, 'Watch out and be on guard against all greed because one's life is not in the abundance of his possessions." NKJV

Many areas throughout the Bible talk about Religious Hypocrisy.

Matthew Chapter 23 for instance with v 28: "In the same way, on the outside you seem righteous to people, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness." NKJV

Romans 12:9 reads: "Love must be without hypocrisy. Detest evil; cling to what is good." NKJV

James 3:13-18 reads: "13 Who is wise and understanding among you? He should show his works by good conduct with wisdom's gentleness. 14 But if you have bitter envy and selfish ambitions in your heart, don't brag and lie in defiance of the truth. 15 Such wisdom does not come down from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. 16 For where envy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every kind of evil. 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, without favortism and hypocrisy. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace." NKJV

Of course v. 17 was about hypocrisy, but felt it important to add the whole paragraph on that one, as it explains what to and not to do. Luke Chapters 11 and 12 also discuss hypocrisy. Obviously this is a very important subject to take to heart.

Monday, December 29, 2008

Inspirational Award

This award goes out to hon at God is our Love, Heather at Simply Heather, Chris at Prayer and Simply Put, Smile! at Not Perfect, only forgiven, and Sam at the Just Shall Live By Faith. You all know how to touch my heart with your love for the Lord. Hon, you never cease to amaze me with all your insight. Heather, you are a blessing. Chris, your prayer blog is wonderful along with other posts you have done. Smile, you are definitely a woman of the Lord, Sam, you have some remarkable posts that are always touching. Thank you to all of you for sharing your thoughts, insights, what you are prompted by Him to write, and scripture sharing. You're all awesome!

Inspirational Blogger Award Pictures, Images and Photos

Award for Suzy Q

This goes out to Suzy Q at Rabbit Run Cottage. Thanks for all the laughs. I absolutely love reading your blog. Your a sweet woman. Here's the award for you. This is the only way I knew how to do it.

Blogger Award Pictures, Images and Photos

Prime Time with God

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 (Matt 5:43-46).

This is so true. To read the full message about this scripture, simply click on the Prime Time with God link on the side bar. I did finally add this site to the bar. ;)

Sunday, December 28, 2008

Check it Out 4

I'd just like to do a quick recognition of a new blog I've discovered by her leaving a comment on one of my posts. Her blog is called, "Contentment Corner." I just went and visited her blog. She is a Pastors wife in AZ. She has some great inspirational pieces on her blog. I really think those of you who are in the Lord will enjoy her blog. Check it out!

Gift

I've added a little snippet on my side bar that reads: "Every day is a gift."

This is so very true. We must not take life for granted. Every day is a gift from God. It is important for us to take the time to make the most of our given days here on Earth. Never wasting our time with trivial practices, wasting precious time that we could be using to do good deeds, to help others, to LEARN and LISTEN to the plans He has laid out for us...

And the list goes on. I had once upon a time during my free time just sit and play computer games (solitaire and bejeweled, and a few other puzzle type games) or sat in front of the TV. Now during my free time, I listen to spiritual messages from I-Tunes, conversate with my son, hubby, and friends, read spiritual messages in my e-mail box, and most importantly, pick up the Bible and read. What I really need to catch up on is all the spiritual books we have acquired over time.

You see, since coming back into the Lord, I have this thirst, this hunger to learn, learn, learn, as quickly and as much as I possibly can. Do I ever falter, of course I do. When I realize, I repent and get back on track.

Oh and notice, I used the word "spiritual" instead of Christian. Our pastor had some good words about the use of the word "Christian." Instead of trying to explain it, I would suggest going to Capitol Christian Center (the link is on my side bar) and listen to the message. It was very good. Of course all the messages are.

Speaking of which, when children ages 4 and 6 tell you while you are sitting listening to the Pastor comment, "That is Jesus talking Omah. I can tell," (from the 6 year old) , and from the 4 year old, "Omah, is that God talking right now? It sounds like God talking," you know that you are listening to a good Pastor! How cool is that? In fact, I should share that tidbit with our Pastor. He has an impact on all ages. From the heart of a child! I love their sweet innocence and how they can teach us so much more than we can them at times.

The God of Time

"For there is a proper time and procedure for every matter, though a man's misery weighs heavily upon him (Eccl 8:6)."

"How we use our time is a good indicator of the god we choose to serve. There is a god whose name is "the urgent" that can rule our lives if we are not diligent. The wrong use of time can lead to misery. The right use of time can result in fulfillment."

How true this is. I've learned this the hard way. Misery it is when we try to go it alone. The message is good. Simply click on Prime Time With God on the side bar to view the rest of the message.

Who's Your Elisha?

"Opening Our Spiritual Eyes 2 Kings 6:17 And Elisha prayed, 'O Lord, open his eyes so he may see." Then the Lord opened the servant's eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha."

"Who is the Elisha in your life? Do you have a mentor friend who can see the activity of God in your life when you cannot see it? We all need to have somebody we can trust to help us see the activity of God. It is often difficult for us to see what God is really doing because we are so consumed by the circumstances of the moment. Ask God today to help open your spiritual eyes that you might see Him in your circumstances."


This comes from Crosswalk's: "Today God is First"
The question came at the end of the message. It is a great reminder. I am thankful for the Elisha's in my life. My husband is a great influence and reminder. Not to mention friends that I have who will tell me things that I do not see. God is Good!

Oh Night Divine: The Real Story

I recieved this as an e-mail this evening. I thought I would share it.
When Was Jesus Born?

Most scholars agree that Yeshua/Jesus was born somewhere around the time of the Feasts of the Lord in the fall. One way to reach this conclusion is through the story in Luke 1 concerning the birth of John the Baptist. From 1 Chronicles 24, it is possible to know when John the Baptist's father Zechariah, who belonged to the priestly division of Abijah, was serving in the Temple. We also know that six months later the angel Gabriel visited Mary (her real Hebrew name is Miriam) and she became pregnant by the Holy Spirit. This information brings us to the seventh month on the Jewish calendar as the time of the birth of Yeshua.

We also have some amazing information from the constellation of the stars. First of all the Magi, the wise men, had seen the star of the king of the Jews in the East and they came to Jerusalem to look for Him. Secondly, the Book of Revelation, chapter 12, also speaks about a sign in the heavens connected with the birth of Messiah.

God created the stars, which include the planets, to serve as sings. "And God said, 'Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark seasons and days and years.'" (Gen 1:4) Psalm 19:1-4 says,

"The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge . There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world."

Before the Bible was written, God had already written the Gospel story in the stars. Well-known Radio Bible Teacher Dr. D. James Kennedy writes in his book The Real Meaning of the Zodiac that scientists are amazed to find that every civilization in history, no matter how far back in time they go, has always referred to the same constellation of the stars. The only reasonable explanation for this is that God taught Adam the meaning behind the stars, which was then handed down to succeeding generations. The Book of Job, considered by many to be the oldest book in the Bible, as well as the Book of Amos mention several star constellations by name.

The Gospel message is clearly seen in the Zodiac, beginning with the constellation of Virgo, the virgin, and ending with Leo, the King. This message was later on perverted in Babylon into the reading of horoscopes to predict future events, which God strictly condemns as demonic, occult practice. The prophet Daniel was however at one time the chief of the magi in Babel. Most certainly he taught these magi the truths about the stars, which is the reason for some of them coming to Jerusalem to search for the Messiah when He was born.

"After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, 'Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.'" (Mt 2:1-2)

Three Bible passages with Messianic prophecies give us the explanation about the star of "the one" king of the Jews, the Messiah that the magi had seen. The first passage is Numbers 24: 17-19.

"I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near. A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel. He will crush the foreheads of Moab, the skulls of all the sons of Sheth. Edom will be conquered; Seir, his enemy, will be conquered, but Israel will grow strong. A ruler will come out of Jacob and destroy the survivors of the city."

The second Messianic passage is Genesis 49:8-10.

"Judah, your brothers will praise you; your hand will be on the neck of your enemies; your father's sons will bow down to you. You are a lion's cub, O Judah; you return from the prey, my son. Like a lion he crouches and lies down, like a lioness-who dares to rouse him? The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler's staff from between his feet, until he comes to whom it belongs and the obedience of the nations is his."

The third is Psalm 110:1-4.

"The LORD says to my Lord: 'Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.' The LORD will extend your mighty scepter from Zion; you will rule in the midst of your enemies. .The LORD has sworn and will not change his mind: 'You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.'"

We see in Numbers 24, that a star, also called a scepter, will come out from Jacob. In Genesis 49 we see that this scepter is narrowed down to come out from the tribe of Judah, who is called a lion and in Psalm 110 we see that the Messiah will come after the order of Melchizedek, meaning "King of Righteousness."

Jupiter, called Zedek in Hebrew and meaning 'rigthteous,' has always been connected with the Messiah, the "Righteous One." The brightest star in Leo, the Lion, which is a symbol for Judah, is Regiel, which means 'king" or Melech in Hebrew.

The Magi said, "We saw his star in the east." With the help of modern computers it is very easy today to calculate the exact positions of the stars thousands of years back in time. What used to take years to calculate is today available with the click of a mouse if you have access to the right program. On September 12, on the Feast of Trumpets, in the year 3 BC, Regiel (Melech) and Jupiter (Zedek), began to make a helical rising together as one star, forming Melchizedek appearing between the feet of Leo (Judah), on the eastern horizon just before sunrise. This helical rising of Regiel and Jupiter happens once in about 80 years. However, within one year it happened two more times, in connection with Feasts of Purim and Shavuot (Pentecost).

But something else also happened in the heavens that night of the Feast of Trumpets, 3 BC. Between 6:18 and 7:39 local Jerusalem time, in the evening of September 11, just as the Feast began, Virgo was "clothed in the sun" with the new moon under her feet, exactly as described in Revelation 12:1-5.

"A great and wondrous sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head. She was pregnant and cried out in pain as she was about to give birth. .She gave birth to a son, a male child, who will rule all the nations with an iron scepter."

That year the sun was in the sign of Virgo for twenty days, between August 27 and September 15, but only for about one and a half hour during that time was the moon under the feet of Virgo. It happened exactly when the Feast of Trumpets began. This was most likely the exact time that Mary was in labor according to Revelation 12, giving birth to the Messiah while the watchmen on the walls of Jerusalem announced the new moon and the shofars were blowing! Little did they know what had just taken place a couple of miles away. Later on that night, on September 12, Regiel and Jupiter began their helical rising before dawn announcing that the King of the Jews was born.

According to Jewish tradition Adam, who is also called the son of God in Scripture (Lk 3:38), was created by God on the Feast of Trumpets. How fitting that the last Adam was also born on the same day! And just as Yeshua one day will return as King with the trumpet call of God, He also came the first time at the sound of the trumpet. The arrival of a king is usually announced with trumpets. It is amazing how exactly in detail God fulfills His Word!

Many people today believe that Yeshua was born during the Feast of Tabernacles. There is one major obstacle to this theory. Luke wrote about the census that took place when Yeshua was born, "And everyone went to his own town to register." (Lk 2:3) During Succot all Jewish men were commanded in the Torah to be in Jerusalem, which made it impossible for everyone to be in their own towns at that time. The common time during the year for a census was between August and October. December would not have been the time for a Roman census since it usually is rainy and cold in Israel at that time of year, which would have made it difficult to travel in those days.

What an awesome God we serve! Truly "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge." (Ps 19:1-2)

Here is even more information declaring the wonders of our God. If Yeshua was born on September 11, 3 BC, He would have been conceived by the Holy Spirit 38 weeks earlier around December 19, 4 BC right in the midst of Chanukah at the time of the new moon. The Light of the World became flesh during Chanukah, the Festival of Lights. Chanukah is then a very appropriate time to thank God for sending His Son to us as the Light of the world!

Chanukah is the feast in memory of the rededication of the Temple. The common expression among the Jewish people during this feast is: "A great miracle happened there!" (or "here" if you live in the land of Israel). In the midst of that Feast a new Temple was dedicated: the body of Messiah. Truly, a great miracle happened as the sinless, holy blood of Yeshua that was to be poured out on the cross to redeem all mankind back to God was formed by the Holy Spirit in Miriam's womb during Chanukah!

Yeshua was born as a man and died as a man, but His conception and His resurrection are the proofs that He is the Messiah, the Son of God. "The angel answered, 'The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.'" (Lk 1:35) "regarding his Son, who as to his human nature was a descendant of David, and who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord." (Rom 1:4)

Chanukah is a very important feast. It is the season for divine visitations and miracles! During
Chanukah Yeshua stood in the Temple in Jerusalem and said, "The miracles I do in my Father's name speak for me." (Jn 10:25) It should not come as a surprise that the enemy wants to distract people during this time through a frenzy of commercialism.
Chanukah is also a feast of great prophetic significance. Gal 4:4 says, "But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law." Without the rededication of the Temple under the Maccabees, the story we read in Luke 2 when Yeshua was presented to the Lord in the Temple "as it is written in the Law of the Lord" could never have happened. This had been prophesied by Haggai when he declared, "'The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house,' says the LORD Almighty." (Hag 2:9) If the Syrian king Antiochus Epiphanes had succeeded to wipe out the Jewish people's obedience to the Torah, as he tried to do by desecrating the temple, and forbidding the Jews to keep the Sabbath and circumcising their children, Joseph and Mary would have been pagans. Messiah could not have been born and Haggai's prophecy about the temple would never have been fulfilled!

It is the same situation today. Yeshua will also return "as it is written in the Law of the Lord!" If the antichrist, "the lawless one," and his forces succeed to wipe out the Jewish people and the Law of the Lord, Messiah cannot return! The Lord is calling us to pray for the Jewish people and for the peace of Jerusalem. "This is what the LORD says: 'Sing with joy for Jacob; shout for the foremost of the nations. Make your praises heard, and say, 'O LORD , save your people, the remnant of Israel.'" (Jer 31:7)

If we truly want to honor God we should not celebrate the birth of His Son, the Word that became flesh, outside the boundaries of the written Word. Yeshua is the promised seed of David who came to His own. He is the Word that became flesh. It is time for great humility and repentance in the Church for erring from God's ways and acknowledge our dependency upon the Jewish people. It is part of preparing the way for the Lord and being made ready as His bride for His return. "What advantage, then, is there in being a Jew, or what value is there in circumcision? Much in every way! First of all, they have been entrusted with the very words of God. What if some did not have faith? Will their lack of faith nullify God's faithfulness? Not at all! Let God be true, and every man a liar." (Rom 3:1-4)

God entrusted His Word to the Jewish people. In separating ourselves from them, we automatically also stray from the Word of God. It is time to begin to climb down from our church steeples and come back to the place where the anti Semitic church fathers went the wrong way and repent. Not everyone will do it, because it will require a lot of humility. Chanukah is the season to learn the lesson from Miriam of what is required of us if we truly want to please God.

"My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. .His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. . he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts .but has lifted up the humble." (Lk 1:46-52) "What is highly valued among men is detestable in God's sight." (Lk 16:15)

Let's celebrate the Feasts of the Lord!

I do not know who wrote this or who deserves the credit, but thank you for passing this on. I do have to question it though. Is it possible to be fuly and positively sure when Christ was born, when no real date was ever logged? What is your opinion?

Rest

Matthew 11:28[Jesus said,] "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

This came from Crosswalk's Heartlight. You can click on the link on the side bar to go there and read the whole message.

Hmmm, this is a good one to ponder. We must allow ourselves rest in order to do the Lords work. After all, did He not say, "on the seventh day rest?" If we are tired, we tend to become cantankerous which can give off some very bad vibes. This is counter acting what we are suppose to be doing.

If we are tired out, we are opening ourselves up to allowing the enemy to enter much easier.

God's timing is perfect as always. I for one needed this verse, as for some reason I've been extremely tired. Although this could be do to being woken at 3 am. ;) I'm too stubborn to go back to bed and instead fall asleep in my chair which does not allow me to sleep continuously. Therefore, I'm tired, I tend to be shorter on patience, become cranky, and do not share the light of the Lord in this manner, instead, allowing the enemy to break in and take over what should be a beautiful time with family and grand kids. They then become irritable which only enhances the problem.

Lesson learned. Get plenty of rest. Your body is telling you to rest, hmmm, actually, God is saying, hey, slow down, rest and take care of your body so you can carry on by My will. Part of my problem is thinking I have to do it all to relieve pressure from others. Feeling like I'm failing if I don't try to help and much as possible where ever I can, and then becoming stressed, tired...you name it, and it just doesn't work that way.

For the first time in years, I sat down, allowed my son to clean up the kitchen and realized how nice it was to allow someone to help. He actually thanked me for allowing him to help. Eye opener? Oh yeah, big time. Oh I love how He works in our lives. Thank you Father, Jesus, and Holy Spirit! You're Awesome!!!!

Request

I'm looking for ideas and suggestions on fresh new ideas for working with young children to help them learn Christianity. Something that is easy for them to grasp. Something to pique their curiosity. The grand kids are interested and I don't want them to lose that. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated and welcomed.

ASK

Matthew 11:28[Jesus said,] "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

This comes from Crosswalks Heartlight daily verse. Is this good or what. What the message says about this verse is good. Just simply go to Crosswalk.com. Jesus is there and will provide. Which goes with a verse I read yesterday:

A Keep asking and it will be given to you.
S Keep seeking and you will find.
K Keep knocking and the door will be opened to you. Mat. 7:7

So what should we be doing?

ASKING!

Saturday, December 27, 2008

Prime Time with God

Today's Prime Time talks about how we are to go to the cross, but yet we often come down from it. Being of the flesh makes it easy at times to come off the cross. We are easily persuaded by Satan at times.

We need to strengthen ourselves in the Lord and avoid coming off our cross. He is the begining of the message. You can click on the link on the side bar to read the rest.

" ... come down from the cross and save yourself!" (Mark 15:30).

"God calls each of us to the cross in order for all the things that are alive in our flesh to die. Daily we are invited by the enemy of our souls to love ourselves and come away from the cross.

What are the signs that you have come off the cross? When you are overly concerned with appearance, you have come off the cross. When the words of others cause you to react and defend, you have come off the cross. When you strive to have your world in perfect order, you have come off the cross. When you complain about circumstances, you have come off the cross.

Is this good or what? Very powerful message.

Blessings

The way of the cross means letting go and letting God have His way in every matter, every relationship, every outcome."

Friday, December 26, 2008

Refueling Your Soul

Another great message comes from Dr. Charles Stanley at In Touch Ministries. The message title is: "Refueling Your Soul." Dr. Stanley is a man that has made a wonderful walk with the Lord. He has so many great teachings. We love His Life Principles Bible.

Anyway, the lead into the message says, "Spending time alone with our heavenly Father is necessary for good spiritual health. In fact Jesus would often retreat to the wilderness to pray in solititude and quiet (Luke 5:16). You can click on the link above to go read the full message.

It is true, we need to pray in solitude to be closer to Him, to hear his voice. It is important for our spiritual health to spend time alone with him. One of the best places I have found to do this is while driving. I know, we need to have full concentration on the road, but I still manage to talk to Him, worship Him, and listen for Him. If I'm alone, I have a great time spending time with Him. The shower is another place. In fact a woman who I had met at the kids Christmas choir rehearsals had recieved a message from Him in the shower about my youngest grand daughter. So where ever you are alone, take time to get with Him. It will be well worth it! Also, here is the link to In Touch Ministries home page.

Our Christmas Lessons and Blessings

This year was a new experience. Our past Christmas' were so materialistic/secular. I always told the kids that it was the celebration of Jesus' birthday, but that was the extent of it. After watching our daughter and her kids and seeing how materialisitic/worldly their lives are, we decided to teach them an important lesson.

For one, we signed GD #1 into the church Christmas Choir. I know she and her sister were touched. It was a lesson for them both. We also took them to the Christmas Eve service which had an impact on them as well.

Then Christmas presents time. The oldest was upset and said, "This is it?" I told her to wait until she opened them and she would be suprised. I told her it wasn't about how many, but the meaning. Low and behold, the kids were very happy. Gone was the "Is this it attitude!" I could tell our daughter was upset at first as well. Then came the best part.

I had told you a few posts back about hubby going to the letters from dad group and the letter he had written me just because. Well for our anniversary he done the same and put it in a wooden box. I believe I wrote about it as well. I've never been more touched and never appreciated a gift more than those. I love how the Lord is working in Him.

Anyway, for our son and daughter, he had gotten them these boxes and put letters to them in both, along with some family heirlooms we had been holding for them until we felt they were responsible enough to appreciate them. He gave our son his grand dads old pocket watch. J loved it and the letter really touched him. He gave our daughter some bracelets that had belonged to his maternal grandmother. Our daughter bawled. It was so neat to see hubby and her hugging and crying and hugging and crying. She was touched.

I pray now that she is reminded of how great the Lord is and comes back to him. She needs to do this, as her life is a mess and she has been so depressed. Oh please Lord, open her eyes, ears and soul to you. Let her come to you. She needs you, so do the children. In Jesus Holy Name I pray. Amen.

Our son had strayed too until he recieved his box. Praise the Lord, he's back!!!!! God is Good. This was truly the best Christmas yet. It will be a terrific new year if our daughter returns to the Lord as well. I'm believing in healing of her soul. Please take a stand with me in Christs Holy Name. My heart is soaring right now while rehashing the day yesterday. I love the way he works in us. I could not imagine life without him. I only wish we had done this earlier, but...it's by His time, in His way. We had lessons to learn and growing up to do first to fully come to appreciate His love for us.

God Bless you all. I truly hope you all had as blessed of a Christmas as we did. God Loves You and so do I.

Testimony to God's Love

It has been two and a half years now since my hubby, son & I have given our lives to the Lord. My only wish is that we had done it sooner. As I had stated in an earlier post, I had given myself to Him as a child, but strayed when I turned 16. I owe my walk with Him to my paternal grandmother. She was a blessing in my life big time.

Anyway, joining the military I became an alcoholic big time. One year later I met hubby. He too was an alcoholic. One year later we are married and have a child. This is when our lives became very unstable. Our marriage was like a roller coaster. Hubby was hardly home. I poured my life into our children. 15 months after our son was born we had a daughter.

Hubby's drinking was out of control. I had settled down quite a bit worrying about the kids, but was still drinking way too much. It only took one drink then I wanted more and more. What kind of life was this for kids.

There is only one good thing about this time period, I did tell the kids about Jesus, pushed them to believe and hold onto that faith. I tried on Mother's day one year to get us involved in church. That was the only time we went. Hubby wasn't having anything to do with it.

See hubby lost his mom to cancer at the age of 10. This done a number on his whole family. Hubby felt there was no way there could be a God to take his mother from him. I prayed and prayed that somehow, someway he would be shown the light and saved. God is faithful!

So for 25 years our lives went on like this. Hubby doing his thing, I doing mine. I was very family until I had to go back to work. This happened during our kids teen years, so they had very little supervision. Not good plus the fact that their parents were alcohoics. What a sad and dangerous mixture.

We almost lost our son at one point. We had in a sense given up with him, thinking that he was a child lashing out and giving up. Come to find out, he had some serious mental disorders. This is where life tried to turn itself around, but to no avail. It worked for a short time. Year 22 of marriage, our marriage bottomed out. Hubby left us for someone else. Blaimed it all on me. He was right in some degrees, but as the saying goes, "it takes two to make or break a marriage is so true." We were both at fault with the problems.

This is when I found out that I'm bi-polar (mild end thank heavens). I finally got on some medication and started to turn my life around. I didn't give up on hubby, as for some reason I just knew I couldn't let go despite what had happened. I went off the deep end for a bit, drank my meals, didn't care about much at all, and then had an affair myself. I hated myself for it once I woke up. How could I do that when it went against every moral being in myself. I knew it was wrong. That is when I thought I was doomed. There was no way I could make it to heaven after that.

After a year of seperation, hubby & I reunited. We moved to Boise from Mountain Home. We became closer than we had ever been. We poured ourselves into our grand kids. But, we were still drinking heavily on weekends only finally. A year later we moved to Meridian. Our son & I started going to church off an on. It felt good to be back there. I quit smoking and drinking. One month later, hubby and son done the same. Then our son presented us with the Purpose Driven Life books and we studied that together.

The miracle that happened next was unbelievable. We all three became very engrossed in the book. We couldn't read it fast enough. We were taken in by it's very words and wanted to get to know the Lord better. We started working on trying to get hubby to go to church. He felt he needed to learn more first. So he kept reading the Bible and studying.

At one point during the study of the book when everyone had gone to bed, I prayed and then sat quietly. All of sudden I felt hands on my shoulders. At first I jumped and thenrealized that Jesus was holding me. Oh what a feeling. Next He took my hands in His. I cried and he rocked me. I knew then that I was forgiven. How awesome is that? All I had to do is follow His word and repent of my sins and He took me in. How could that happen after committing one of the worst sins possible?

Before long hubby announced that he found a church he wanted to try. So we went to Capitol Christian Center. This has become our home. We love it there. Our Pastors are amazing. We have a good family there. We soon became involved with volunteering. Who would have ever thought?

Ever since then, our marriage has become so strong. I'm amazed everyday by the work God is doing in hubby's life. He has done a complete turn around. Of course this would not have happened had we not given ourselves to the Lord. I don't think our marriage had ever been this strong, nor were we ever this happy with one another.

Hubby now has all the patience in the world with our kids and the grand kids. He's been a blessing beyond blessings. I've never known him to show emotion until these past couple of years. You can just see the pride in him for our kids and the grandkids. He has been so loving, patient, understanding, you name it. I couldn't ask for a better man.

As you can see, accepting the Lord into your lives can work miracles. Hubby keeps asking me what ever possessed me to never give up on him. I keep telling him that I just knew there was a good man lost inside that body. He says he doesn't deserve me and I laugh, and remind him that we are of the flesh, and we all mess up, some worse than others. That I'm just thankful that we finally found our way to Him. Now our lives are complete!

So I pray that those that do not know Him, come to Him. As life without the Lord is empty. It's nothing but pain and sorrow without Him. Since giving ourselves to the Lord, we have met so many wonderful real, true friends. We have found peace and love with one another. We are armed with the armor of God!

Does Satan try to get us to slip up and go astray, oh yeah. The more we learn and the closer our walk with the Lord, the harder he tries. He attacks the ones that are close and endearing to us. It's hard to watch, but we have learned so much and have learned to rebuke the enemy. We have the opportunity to teach our grandkids the same path. They love it! Our oldest grand daughter craves learning about God and Jesus. How cool is that?! I could never imagine going back to our old ways. We used to think we were having fun. Ha! That's a joke. Looking back, it was nothing but pain and ugliness.

Praise God for His Faithfulness!

Do It Heartily

Hon had used this in one of her comments and wanted to share this one with you. It's a good scripture that says a lot in one sentence.

"Whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the LORD and not to men." ~Colossians 3:23

"First, what ever you do, do it heartily." To me this comes natural. I was raised to always put your best foot forward no matter what you are doing. I guess that is why I have a hard time working with some. Those that do not put pride in what they do baffle me. That is a downfall that I have is judging. We must not judge others either. So I find this part of the verse important in itself. Do It Heartily!

When we look at Jesus, did He ever balk? No way. He always worked for the Father and kept on even in hard times. Look at His time spent in the desert, being tempted by the devil. Not once did He give up. That is a long time to fast and suffer, but He done it Heartily! When carrying the cross to His death; how many could do that? We must bear our cross and do it Heartily!

Now, "as to the LORD and not men." This here is one that many of us fall short of. It is too easy to fall into the trap of the worldly ways, and ways of the flesh. After all, we are human and were born with the inheritance of sin. But, we can at least try Heartily to overcome our temptations and do the best we can. That's all He asks of us. That's definitely NOT asking too much.

To walk in the way of the Lord, what better path is there to follow? Absolutely none. My testimony to the Faith of God is a prime example of how good life is in His Love.

God Bless

O' Holy Night

I was sent this video from You tube and totally love it. I tried to post it to here, but they did not have an html code to use on blogger. :( So I'm placing the URL so that you can copy and paste in your bar and see it. Hope you like it!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_ypUnnqr8Y

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Blessings

"God Blesses those so that they might Bless others."
Life Principle #25 from Charles Stanley's Life Principle Bible.


I know this to be so true. He has blessed many that have been put in our paths that have blessed us beyond words. How great is that?! I can't think of anything better than following and being in the Lord.

Have a Beautiful and Glorious Christmas Day!

In what way(s) have you been blessed lately?

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

True Giving

The Lord has placed it upon my heart to get this message out all day. I finally have the oppotunity. I read hons blog yesterday and was amazed by her giving. What an inspiration she was. I highly suggest clicking on her link (God is our Love) and reading her blog.

What she had done was take her youth group and cooked up spaghetti meals and took them to the orphanage. Now I know many people do this type of thing, but not when they are running a fever and sick. The Lord blessed her and helped her deal with the sickness while she served others in need. She took a stand against the enemy and done what she knew needed to be done. Her youth group and the orphans both received blessings.

After visiting the orphanage, they walked the streets in search of homeless people and blessed them with food. By the time she returned home, she was very sick. She gave of herself to help those in need at a time when she was weak. I think we can all learn from this great sacrifice. I know I think twice now when something is coming up that I really don't want to deal with. Plus, as of late, it's been on my heart about the great sacrifices that God & Jesus had made for us.

I'll talk about this later. I have so much going on in my head right now. Words are getting jumbled and not coming out right. This is such an important subject that I don't want to mess it up. So, click on God is Our Love and read the whole post on their ministry expedition. It is so heart warming. Take in the full meaning of what took place that night.

Love to you all,
God Bless You Always, and Always P.U.S.H.

Link to the Beveres!

Just wanted to get the word out to those that may not know that Messenger International (John & Lisa Bevere) have a new blog. I absolutely love those two. I was fortunate to attend Lisa's conference at Capitol Christian Center this year of Beauty Redefined. I also recently attended a small group doing Lisa's study on Virtue. My husband has followed John as well.

They both run a fantastic ministry and are truly filled with the Holy Spirit. I have never felt as moved by a speaker as I did listening to Lisa. I felt so connected to her. Might be because we have a lot in common. ;) Seriously, while listening to her speak, it was like listening to someone speak about my life.

But that is not the only reason. They both know how to speak. They both know the Word and how to follow the Lord. They have a beautiful family. They have hearts of gold. Can you tell I couldn't say enough about them. Those that know about them know exactly what I'm talking about. So when I got the message that they have a new blog, I had to share it with you. I subscribe to their podcasts as well. I just want to help get the word out about anyone that can teach the ways of the Lord. John & Lisa are teachers of the Lord.

Thank you John & Lisa Bevere for using your gifts, for giving of yourselfs to lead us to Him. Your sacrifices are greatly appreciated. May the Lord continue to shine His Blessings upon you. God Bless you and your family.

Anyway, here's thier link, check them out!

Happy Birthday Jesus!

Jesus Is The Reason
Myspace Glitter Graphics

Happy Birthday Jesus!
This is your day to be honored.
Thank You for Your sacrifice
for our freedom from sin.

Merry Christmas!

xmas or christmas glitter Pictures, Images and Photos

Have A Very Merry Christmas from our Family to Yours.
May it be a Blessed, Healthy, Happy time for everyone!



Prime Time with God

"I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said." Then the angel left her (Luke 1:38).

"Have you ever had a boss come to you and give you an assignment which had rules never before used? Not only were the rules different, he was asking you to agree to them not knowing the outcome or impact it would have on your life. That must have been the way Mary, the mother of Jesus felt. "

Is this enough of a preview to want to read the rest? Of course we know the story, but it is always intriguing and love reading and watching the story again and again. You know the routine.

Have a beautiful day!

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Glory to God in the Highest

Forgive me. My mind has not been with me lately. I am posting the words to the song. I just went through college and know how to referenc material. Words of songs are published and written all over the place. So here it is.

Glory to God in the Highest
By Frank Hernandez

More than two thousand years ago
Shepards were in the fields
When suddenly angels appeared
And the shepards were shaking with fear
but an angel said, "Don't be afraid
I bring good news this day"

A Savior has been born
And He is Christ the Lord
Glory to God, Glory to God
In the Highest

With peace on earth be blessed
On whom His favor rests
Glory to God, Glory to God in the Highest

When angesl were gone, the shepherds said
Let us go on to Bethlehem
And when they arrived, it was true
In a manger they found you know Who
Jesus, the baby and King
I can hear those shepherds sing...

Refrain

The shepherds returned glorifying and praising God
for all they had heard and seen
And we now rejoice, glorify and praising God
We lift up one voice and sing

Refrain

Glory to God, Glory to God
Glory to God, Glory to God
Glory to God, Glory to God
In the Highest

Copyright 2006 His and Hernandez Music

Excerpts From Various Sites

I had to share this quote by Chuck Swindoll. So true!

"As I reflect on the uncertianty of our times...nothing is more needed in 2009 than proclaiming His Word....And God will do this through you."

Hmmm, makes you think huh?

This next one is good. I have a very good friend who is very spirit filled with a big heart that works in an office of people that are not any where near to be Christians. She's talked about the feelings there at times, but she keeps planting the seed, and it's helped. If anyone can bring people to the Lord, she can. What a great gift to have!

Any way, the next one comes from Prime Time With God: Word Rewards.

"There is a belief held by many in the body of Christ that says "If I'm not doing something that has an inherent spiritual value, then it has no value at all." This sacred/secular dichotomy impacts believers everyday as they go into their secular workplace. They believe what their secular work is simply a means of supporting the real ministry carried out by local churches, ministers, missionaries, and vocational ministries. "

Click on the site name on the side bar and check out the rest of the reading. Very good.

I love this next one from Insight Today: Hope by Chuck Swindoll.

"One of the greatest benefits to be gleaned from the Bible is perspective. When we get discouraged, we temporarily lose our perspective. Little things become mammoth. A slight irritation, such as a pebble in a shoe, seems huge. Motivation is drained away and, worst of all, hope departs. "

This has been happening lately. Motivation hasn't been lost, but hope has at times, and those little irritations have been known to become mountains. The only way to remove these problems is to go to the Lord; Get in the Word; pray; take a deep breath and listen for His instructions. Letting things get out of control is not healthy.

Crosswalks Loving Action talks about husbands and wifes.

"Honoring Your Husband...

"As a wife, you need to understand these differences between men and women: By nature, a woman tends to relate to others on a more personal level, while a man tends to be more challenge-and-conquer oriented....A woman finds much of her identity through her relationships, while a man usually finds his identity through his accomplishments....A woman is usually much more in touch with her emotions, but a man is primarily concerned with the 'facts.'...The average woman speaks nearly 25,000 words a day, while the average man speaks only around 12,500!"

Wow! Do we reallky speak that much??? That's more than double what a man says.

Crosswalks Encouragement Today: from Proverbs 31 Ministries talked about Joy.

How many of you lose a lot of your joy at Christmas time? Such as they talked about the long lines at stores/malls, heavy traffic, kids demands/wants, all the hoopla that often comes with the holidays; parties, extra grocery shopping, cooking, baking, presents to wrap, shopping, shopping, shopping--had to throw that one in there--and we just get stressed and wonder where all the joy is in Christmas.

Hmmm, not once was the One that Christmas is all about mentioned in all that. Does He often get pushed aside, not time for worship, no time for prayer, no time for reading the Word? EFT said it good:

"We can't manufacture joy, or create eternal pleasures, though we try so hard to. Oh, we might get glimpses of joy--but we won't experience the fullness of joy unless we immerse ourselves in God's presence.

You might be thinking, How can I do that? You haven't seen my 'to do' list! "

Check out the message that explains what you can do to bring joy back into the spirit of Christmas.

So I shall end my list for now. I'm trying to catch up on some reading in my e-mail box and share what needs sharing.

May God Bless You Always and Always P.U.S.H.

Christmas Brings the Peace of God

"You will experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6 (NLT)

Once you make peace with God, that’s spiritual peace, then you get the peace of God in your heart and that’s emotional peace."


"This is the one you really need for daily living. The peace of God happens in your heart when you’ve made peace with God. All of a sudden, the stress in your life goes down. You’re not as angry as you used to be. Things don’t bother you as much. You’re a lot more patient. You’re filled with a lot more love and peace."

By: Rick Warren

This is a good one and very dear to my heart; as I have had this experience. There are times when watching the grand kids that life can seem out of control. Anger steps in. Patience quickly disappears. This happens easily when I have the one boy that is mentally challenged and he is acting out.

The only days that I have this problem in life is when I have not gotten in the word, or read daily devotionals, and prayed. Can you guess what He says to me? Child, you never came to me today. And then I feel like a heal. Apologize and talk to Him.

I've learned that at times I let the business that is ahead of me when getting up, or if I've slept too long, the stress level sets in quickly and then I do not think to take the time.

But...when I welcome the Lord into my life each morning, the days go so smoothly. So what is the lesson here. Don't start the day out on ones own. First thing, Good Morning Father God, Jesus Christ, and Holy Spirit. Then I ask for a covering of each family member, the church and friends. And of course I ask for guidance, for Him to walk with me, guide me, and show me what His plans are for me that day. To keep my tongue soft, rid of harshness.

My husband had recieved a daily prayer to use from a very, very good man of the Lord. He is a man that was given the gift of healing. It's amazing how filled he is of the Holy Spirit. I will share that prayer page later today. You can read the rest of Rick Warrens article at: The Purpose Driven Life. It's the Daily Devotional. Enjoy, and have a beautiful day/night depending on where you are. God Bless

Listen for His Instructions

In today's Crosswalk, Live it issue; it talked about a couple that had a baby and decided that God was telling them that they should only have one child. So the husband had a vasectomy. As time went on, mom began to feel empty, their marriage was struggling some, dad wasn't feeling the same thing.

It took a Christmas miracle to wake them up. While watching a nativity scene being played out, their daughter pointed out that they were using a real baby this time instead of a doll. Dad grasped the desire for another child then as well.

God talked to them both telling them they were to have another child. The reason for them not having one was the risk of the child having problems since Dad had health issues. The following Christmas season brought the couple another child on Dec. 23rd!

So the lesson here is to seek Him, listen for Him, follow His instructions. He has it all planned out for us. When we follow His instructions, life goes much more smoothly when we listen to Him and follow His words. You can read the article in full here.

Sunday, December 21, 2008

Words to the Song

Well, I started to write the words to the song until I got to the bottom of the page. It is copyrighted, so I do not want to go against that. It is a beautiful song, one that is such a blessing. I'm sure many if not all have heard the song before anyhow and would agree it's a beautiful song and when sung by kids, ohhhhh, so beautiful. ;)

Well that's all for now. I will visit blogs tomorrow night. Wanted to tonight, but am exhausted. ;) I tried, really I did. But after the spirit award posting took longer than I thought it would but was worth it and fun anyhow.

The Week!

Okay, as I had promised hon, here is how it all turned out. Oh what a blessing this past week has been. Busy? Oh yeah, without a doubt, but well worth it believe me. Let's just say this weekend had me in joyful tears many a time.

First off, I worked with the best group of people. The director for the kids choir was simply amazing! He...well, all I can say is just amazing. I really enjoyed watching him work with those young kids. He is a gifted man of the Lord without a doubt. I'm just happy I had the chance to help out. I found out today that he has written many songs. He wrote one of the songs the kids sang called, "Glory to God in the Highest." I'll have the words to the song at the end of the post. Simply beautiful. My good friend and inspiration at the church from Crayons in My Briefcase told me today that she used to sing some of his songs as a kid. How cool is that? Perhaps some of you or maybe you all have heard of him. Frank Hernandez. Our church is blessed to have him on board.

I was in awe of how he had control of 60 down to 57 kids the whole time. That's not an easy task in itself. Come to find out he had directed a group of 200 kids before. Wow!

His right hand person who is another very dear sweet woman was so fun. Through her, I met other wonderful women as well. I so enjoyed being with them all. They all worked directly with the director and the kids, I was the hospitality person. I wanted to work with the kids, but that is okay. I loved being there and helping in some way or another. They are talking about doing another concert. I sure hope so. I so want to do it again!

Any way, the week was easy for the most part. Trying to get all the cookies baked and ready on time before the times needed and for gifts--which I have to bake some more the next two days with 4 kids to care for--thanks hubby and J. :0) Ha ha. But thats okay. I want to give some to some of the people I'm closest to at church, but not so sure that is going to happen now. Oh well, there is a reason for everything.

Friday was the angel tree project, which I was downhearted to see how it went, not the part with the people running it, but the volunteer status this year. I am praying and ask that you all pray that it will still run without any more problems, all gifts will be delivered before Christmas. Those poor kids deserve it! Thanks in advance for your prayers. I'm believing in it. I know the Lord will not let those kids down. God is a loving God!

Sat. the kids had to be at the church for practice with the band for the first time at 9:45. They were great! Just a few minor things to work out. At noon we had a cookie social for the kids. Needless to say, they loved it. All the baking was well worth it!

We then had to be back at the church at 3:45 to practice one last time and then perform for the 5 o'clock service. Mom made it for our grand daughters performance. Yeah. As well as our neighbors and good friends. It was a special moment. I was just floating the whole night. I was so proud of ALL the kids. They done a great job.

Sunday we had to be back at the church at 7:45. Well GD #1 (oldest) and I were there at 7:10 to set up a snack table for those that didn't get a chance to eat breakfast, and so they would have stuff to nibble on since they were doing both the 9:00 and 11:00 service. I kept the two girls over night to make it easier on them. Decided to let GD # 3 (youngest) sleep as she was so tired. Hubby brought her in later. Bless his heart he even made sure she was bathed first. Ahhh, such a good grandpa.

I have to stop here for a moment to talk about hubby. I am so blessed to have not only a great husband, but a great father to our kids, and the best grandpa to the little ones. He is soooo good with them. And his following of the Lord; amazing, simply amazing. I love him so. Can you tell? ;)

Anyway. Amazingly with a snow storm starting up, the roads snow covered and icing up, most the kids were there on time. They were all smiling and cheerful for having to be there so early. I think they were stoked from the night before, even though there wasn't half the amount of people as there was today!!!! Oh and I must comment, one of the kids--Mr. Frank let some pray before each performance--asked that no one would be killed on their way home today. How cute and sweet is that? Awwwww.

So they had one last rehearsal then performed their last two times. The last service was perfect. It went off without a hitch. The smile on Franks face said it all. He had every right to be proud. Of course we all knew the Lord would take care of it all. I mean after all, when you have a man leading them that is filled with the Holy Spirit, teaching the kids that they were singing to worship Jesus, and such, how could it go wrong? Of course, the whole time watching them, I was beaming. I was so proud of the hard work and dedication of the children and the people working with them. It was amazing. I'd do it all again!

Unfortunately, I tweaked my knee again. I don't know if I tore the meniscus again or not. I sure hope not. It felt so good to be back there again and helping. I was hoping I could slowly work back into it, but guess it just wasn't meant to be. :( God must have other plans for me.

Then today when we got back home--we swung by and picked up one of the boys, and hubby had picked up the baby earlier--the kids were stoked about playing in the snow, so they did, I fixed lundin (lunch, dinner combined), I know I'm weird, they came in happy and cold and we ate. The kids were the best behaved they have been in ages! Think they recieved some insight from Jesus these past two days???? I think so. The oldest, oh my gosh, she was a blessing. Hubby and J had to go fix a tire and pick some stuff up, I have all four, baby is fussing big time. I finally had to lay him down to finish cooking and GD#1 went and picked him up and laid down with him. He stopped fussing for a bit, then realized he must be hungry; gave her a bottle and he was good to go. Omah was able to finish cooking. Hubby and J came home just as I was preparing their plates. Is Gods timing perfect or what? Then back outside they went and had a blast.

Even Omah must have recieved some blessings as I had the most patience I've ever had with the kids in a while. It was truly a blessed weekend. Thank you Jesus. And yes, I'm still floating with all the gloriousness of the weekend. It was purely a blessed weekend. I got to spend it with friends I haven't talked to much in a while, had several good laughs with a very dear sweet woman who helped lead my way in my walk with the Lord, as she taught the first small group I attended. She's a pure hearted person who is so fulfilled. It was great. And Pastor Ken, oh what a blessing he and his family are to our church, gave an awesome speach. I only caught part of todays which is different from last night. I'm praying they post both services. He reads a couple of Christmas stories to the kids too on Sat. for Christmas. That is so cool when he does that. Could never tell he loves kids. Ha ha. Hey check out the service by clicking on Capitol Christian Center on my side bar. You won't be disappointed and go listen to the service.

Okay, I guess it is pretty obvious that I'm still reeling. Sorry to be so long winded, but it was an awesome, awesome week and ended on a high note on the weekend. Praise the Lord! Just thought I'd share. I love happy stories.

The 2008 Christmas Spirit Award.


I've been tagged with the Christmas Spirit Award.

How cool is that! Thank you Kailana from "The Written World."

Kailana along with Marg are the ones that have started the Blog Advent Tour which was a lot of fun. I have some catching up to do, but so loved touring others blogs and finding some very interesting, fun blogs with wonderful people. So a special thank you goes out to them for creating the tour and continuing it. I can't wait for next year. I would highly check out her blog and joining the tour next year. And Kailana, twice now I have almost left the a on the end of your name again. Not on purpose, but for some reason my fingers don't go as fast as my brain. (blushing)

Here are the rules for the Christmas Spirit Award:

"You must be a true Christmas lover to receive this award.The person to whom you give the award must also be in love with Christmas.Link back to the person who gave you the award.List 5 things that you love about Christmas. If you can't limit it to 5 things, then keep going till you run out of space!Pass the award along to as many people as you like. That can be 1 or 50. It's up to you! But keep the Christmas cheer going!Let your recipients know that you have tagged them by leaving them a comment. Also, link back to the person who gave you the award."

Here are five things I love about Christmas:

1. The celebration of Jesus' birthday.

2. Christmas festivities at church.

3. All the lights and festive feel of the season.

4. The smells of Christmas time. (All the clove cented pine cones...ahhhh love it).

5. The excitement of the children.

6. Family gatherings.

7. Decorating the house.

Sorry, couldn't keep it to five. What can I say, I love Christmas! ;)

Now for my list... Hmmmm, let me see now...Hee hee

1. Heather at Simply Heather

2. 30 Something Mom at Rocks in My Dryer (messed up here, the blog name is Rocks in My Dryer. Sorry.

3. Beth at C. Beth Blog

4. Michelle at Scribbit: Motherhood in Alaska

5. Hon at God is Our Love

6. Heather at Make it From Scratch

7. Karen at Cider Antiques

8. Lana at Right Here...Right Now

9. Kari and Kijsa at Ask Kari & Kijsa

10. Kate at A Simple Walk

11. Meggie at Meggies Stuff

12. Francesca, Thuy, & Kacey at 3 Baby Chicks

13. Susie Q at Rabbit Run Cottage of whom I think has us all beat with Christmas Spirit! Just check out her blog. I think you will all agree.

14. Kim at Homesteaders Heart

15. I'm placing Pat at Back Porch Musings here even though she has already been tagged simply because I feel she is the ultimate winner for the Christmas Spirit Blog. I just won't tag her again but instead let her know that she would have been. ;)

16. And I can't leave out Nanny Goats in Panties simply because I loved the Christmas goat. ;0)

17. Jeanne at Inspiring Ideas

18. June at A Wise Woman Builds Her Home

19. Chocolate on My Cranium

20. Jen at Crayons in My Briefcase (My inspiration!)

21. Lisa at Blessed With Grace

Congratulations all and thanks for posting interesting articles about Christmas. Not everyone has posted pictures, but have written about the true meaning, etc. You all have wonderful blogs that I really enjoy following. There were other blogs I would have liked to have mentioned, but they are not the type of blogs that would like this type of thing. Darn, as they are worthy of it. Such as Simply Grove has a great Christmas section. So stop in and see her blog anyhow. She's an interior designer, attends our church, a mom, and a super person.

By the way, the list was not put together in any specific order, I was lazy and just went down the blog list of those I follow and copied and pasted urls. ;) I love you all!

Saturday, December 20, 2008

Prayer, Promise & Praise

On today's Prayer, Promise, and Praise, Warren Wiersbe talks about how we should pray when we are in trouble. The message is titled Willing to Lead. The message comes from Psalms 34:15 & 143:1-12. It starts out with the second scripture like this:

"How should we pray when we are going through trouble? We find several requests in David's prayer, and if we follow his example, God will lead us through our difficulties into blessing.First, he says, "Hear my prayer" (v. 1) and "answer me speedily, O Lord; my spirit fails!" (v. 7). We don't have to shout to God; we don't have to argue with Him. We simply can come to Him and say, "Lord, hear me." When a child comes to his father or mother, the parent has his ears open. "The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry" (Ps. 34:15). Have you prayed to God about what worries you today?"

What a great message. To read the complete message, click on the link above.

Wish Upon a Hero

Good day all!

If you missed it, I've placed a link to "Wish Upon a Hero" on my side bar. This is a great place to go to help out those in need.

One of the wishes I found was a simple one. It was a wish for a girls sister who is dealing with Lupus two years now that she would recieve lots of Christmas cards. Even a toy would be nice. There is an address where to send them. I haven't read all the rules yet, so I don't know if I can post the address here. So instead, you can go to Mr. Linky on the side bar and go there to check it out.

The last one I just read--I've just gotten started--is about a mom with 7 children. Mom is being abused but scared to leave. She can't afford food or gifts, husband won't take care of it. So a dinner at least for the family for Christmas has been requested. I know we can all do more than that to help them out. Her friend is trying to encourage her to move into a shelter. At least be praying for her and the children that they will soon be able to escape the abuse.

Some of you--which I doubt--may be thinking, "well if she would just move out, she'd have a better chace at taking care of her family, why so many kids, yadda, yadda, yadda. I've seen people in this type of place before. They are scared to leave. Some only know abuse, and don't know any difference. Some think they deserve the abuse. Some are told they will be killed if they try to leave. Some just give up and succumb to it all, thinking there is no other options. Regardless, she and those babies need our prayers and our help.

I know times are tough for many, but dig deep in your hearts, as the Lord what you can do, what He wants you to do, and do what you can. Above all, pray for help them.

Some of the wishes and them being granted are so heart warming. Such as a little girl with spinal injuries needed a specific kind of dog trained to help her learn to walk again. The wish was granted. She is such a cutie too. I pray for complete healing for this bright young girl. Amen.

Another was a soldier in Iraq that wore contact lenses. Because of the desert, it was very hard on his eyes. He requested help to recieve lasik surgery and it was provided by an eye assoc. All paid for, done quickly, now no more contacts, and vision restored to perfect!!!!

God Bless You All. I know there are a lot of places out there to help people. Just remember, even something as simple as a card or letter is all some of them ask for.

Here is Mr. Linky to add the button to your blog if you wish. You have a choice of the type you want to add. Or, when you click on the button on my side bar, look at the very top of the page and it will have an area that says link to us. Click on that for all the types to add to your page.

Friday, December 19, 2008

Weather

I don't know why I'm writing this one. Guess for a change of pace, I'm tired and it's interesting.
I just came from "The One Minute Writer" blog--you can go check it out by clicking on the icon on the side bar--and her subject today was, "how does the weather effect your mood, or talk of an experience you've had." All of a sudden I was confronted with memories and thoughts. So, I thought, okay, let's have a fun moment. ;)

Weather, well of course as I stated on her blog, I'm a walking weather machine. I can always tell when the weather is going to change. I can tell when it is going to be acceptionally bad. My joints will scream at me, sometimes to the point where it hurts to move. Good ole' arthritis. Gotta love it. The problem is, I can tell the weather, but I'm not getting paid for it. Hee hee

Seriously though, weather often is a subject when people first meet, or something and is used as an ice-breaker. I've heard it commented many times over; why in the world do people talk about the weather? It's a natural occurance, it changes, who cares. Well, I do. If it's going to get ugly, I want to know. Sometimes it can make for an interesting subject.

Why just the other day...sorry, couldn't resist that one. I love to be goofy. It's my second nature. Some think I'm just way to strange. Oh well, that's me, take me or leave me.

I remember back as a kid my parents came racing in the door one day shouting, "Get down in the basement!" I stood there asking why. "Don't ask, just do it." Well the alarm in their voice told me to move. So I grabbed my two little sisters and down we went. I heard them running around upstairs and heard this loud noise. We had a great big upright antique piano down there that we three sat under.

Before long we were released to go upstairs. Oh my gosh! There's a big tree down right next to the house and broke the fence. What happened??? Turns out our parents had raced a tornado home worried about us kids. They got home just in time to get us down stairs when it went over the top of us. They watched the lawn chairs floating in the air out on the deck then watched the tornado dump it's contents in the lake. I was mad at them for not joining us. What if?

Another good weather condition was being snowed in for 3 days! Yes that's right. Three days. We had so much snow dumped on us that the snow plows were having a heck of a time getting the roads cleared. We lived out in the country. The only transportation at that point was ski's, snow shoes, and snowmobiles. And lucky us, it was during the week! We didn't have to go to school. Yippee! Well, not so good, we ended up going to school longer that year, as we surpassed our given snow days. :( Oh I can hear my mother saying, "don't count our chickens before they are hatched." This is true mom, very true.

Then there was Germany. Two weather items from there. One time we had winds so strong that there were trees down everywhere. We watched out the windows and the trees were almost laying flat. I've never seen winds like that before. I can't remember what the top wind speed was, but it was outrageous. There was a lot of damage done. It was like a tornado had gone through and just wreaked havoc. It was an experience neither hubby or I had experienced.

The lightening over there was like none other I've ever seen before. The bolts were huge (wide) and sometimes looked yellow. I was always afraid of lightening and never liked watching it before, but there I was mesmorized by the beauty of it--but of course it still scared me, as there is no escaping it--but it was just amazing the amount, the size, the brightness, and the colors. I'd never seen lightening look that way before. I have yet to see any that compares to it here in the states. Anything to do with science is always intriguing to me. How does it happen. Why is it so different there?

And then there was Alaska, the place where the sun hardly ever shines. Depressing, oh yeah, at times. For someone with seasonal disorder this would not be the place to be. But not for us on that little island. We had so much exploring to do, we never got bored. Cold? Oh yeah, it was cold. Ever see grass, yup, but not much. But still, it was unique. I never did see the sun shine the whole time I was there. The hardest part; when it stayed light out for almost 24 hours. I guess a person would get used to it eventually just like anything else. All I know is I was glad to not have to deal with it for too long, as I'm one of those that has a hard time sleeping when it's light. Working mid shifts was hard. Sleeping during the day and not getting full darkness was very difficult. Eventually by that 4th and 5th day though, sleep came much easier.

Well there we have it. A whole post on weather. I do love the four seasons. I wouldn't want to live where you don't experience them.

So...do any of you have some interesting experiences with snow??? I would love to hear about it.

Check it Out #3

hon had posted some texts and this one in particular really touched me, because of her comment that went with it. Click on her name to see the rest of what she has written. Thank you hon for your wonderful sharing and insight of the Lord!

"When we make our relationship with the LORD our top priority, we are setting ourselves for blessings all day everyday! Matthew 6:33" ~Christine

This is a nice encouragement but we should not only serve the LORD because of the blessings but because of the LOVE we have for HIM.

I couldn't agree more. We must ALWAYS remember, it's NOT about us, it's about the LORD OUR GOD!

God Bless You All, Always, and Always P.U.S.H.

Profound Message

Thanks to Simply Heather's blog, I was led to a very profound message on Christmas. John Eldridge is the one that wrote this message. I was in awe of the message being so well put, all from a Christmas Carol. So much meaning. I highly suggest going to his blog and reading the message. Simply click on his name to go there. It will take you directly to that post. You won't be sorry you did. Thank you Heather for leading me there.

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Beauty of Mathematics!

1 x 8 + 1 = 9
12 x 8 + 2 = 98
123 x 8 + 3 = 987
1234 x 8 + 4 = 9876
12345 x 8 + 5 = 98765
123456 x 8 + 6 = 987654
1234567 x 8 + 7 = 9876543
12345678 x 8 + 8 = 98765432
123456789 x 8 + 9 = 987654321
1 x 9 + 2 = 11
12 x 9 + 3 = 111
123 x 9 + 4 = 1111
1234 x 9 + 5 = 11111
12345 x 9 + 6 = 111111
123456 x 9 + 7 = 1111111
1234567 x 9 + 8 = 11111111
12345678 x 9 + 9 = 111111111
12345678 9 x 9 +10= 1111111111
9 x 9 + 7 = 88
98 x 9 + 6 = 888
987 x 9 + 5 = 8888
9876 x 9 + 4 = 88888
98765 x 9 + 3 = 888888
987654 x 9 + 2 = 8888888
9876543 x 9 + 1 = 88888888
98765432 x 9 + 0 = 888888888
Brilliant, isn't it? And look at this symmetry:
1 x 1 = 1
11 x 11 = 121
111 x 111 = 12321
1111 x 1111 = 1234321
11111 x 11111 = 123454321
111111 x 111111 = 12345654321
1111111 x 1111111 = 1234567654321
11111111 x 11111111 = 123456787654321
111111111 x 111111111 = 12345678987654321
Now, take a look at this... 101% From a strictly mathematical viewpoint:
What Equals 100%?
What does it mean to give MORE than 100%?
Ever wonder about those people who say they are giving more than 100%?
We have all been in situations where someone wants you to GIVE OVER 100%.
How about ACHIEVING 101%?
What equals 100% in life?
Here's a little mathematical formula that might help answer these questions:
If: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Is represented as:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26.
If: H-A-R-D-W-O- R- K 8+1+18+4+23+ 15+18+11 = 98%
And: K-N-O-W-L-E- D-G-E 11+14+15+23+ 12+5+4+7+ 5 = 96%
But: A-T-T-I-T-U- D-E 1+20+20+9+20+ 21+4+5 = 100%
THEN, look how far the love of God will take you:
L-O-V-E-O-F- G-O-D 12+15+22+5+15+ 6+7+15+4 = 101%
Therefore, one can conclude with mathematical certainty that:
While Hard Work and Knowledge will get you close, and Attitude will get you there, It's the Love of God that will put you over the top!
Have a nice day & God bless!!

Glorifying God in Our Christmas Shopping

Yeah, I'm able to get on here and do a post tonight. I should really be in bed though, as I have to be back up early and then off to the church. :)

I just wanted to share another good message I came across. It's a littel late for this one, but there are still some that have shopping left to do. Besides, I think the message is important whether it be Christmas shopping or normal shopping (what ever that is). ;) Define normal! J/K

The message comes from Tony Reineke at Christianity.com

The title of the message is; Glorifying God in our Christmas shopping. Some of you may be thinking how in the world can one glorify God when shopping. Easy, be frugal when shopping. Only get those things that are beneficial and hold meaning.

Tony gave three questions he asks himself when buying gifts:

1. Does the gift serve the soul of the recipient?
2. Does the gift promise life transformation?
3. Does the gift encourage faith?

Those are three very good questions to ask. Instead of getting someone just any old thing, or something you like rather than thinking about the needs of the person.

To view the rest of the message click on the link above. Then click on the article. It's a great read.

This subject has a lot of meaning to me due to the fact I used to be a spend-aholic so to speak. I loved to go shopping, and bought things I wanted and for others as well. It didn't matter if it was "needed;" I just knew I liked it and wanted it, or liked it for someone else.

Now I do not like to shop, as I know it is real easy for me to slip back into that rotten habit. But...I've learned that by praying, asking to be filled with the Holy Spirit; for guidance, and for the Lord to walk with you, you will be led to do the right thing.

33 "But seek first the kingdom fo God and His righteousness, and all these things well be provided for you." Matthew 6:33

7 "Keep asking, and it will be given to you. Keep searching, and you will find. Keep knocking, and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives, and the one who searches finds, and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened." Matthew 7:7-8

9 "As for you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a whole heart anda willing mind, for teh Lord searches every heart and understands the intention of every thought. If you seek Him, He will be found by you, but if you forsake hHim, He will reject you forever." 1Chronicles 29:7