Servant

I know I've done a post on this subject before, but feel it is an important one, and the Lord placed it on my heart to post about it again. In fact, He's been relentless on getting me to do so. ;) And so, I want to be obedient.

Our Pastor has spoken about this very subject often, and a lot lately. I've been reading and hearing it in other places as well, so it seems that the word needs to be repeated.

The question is: Are you a servant of Gods on Sundays, or are you a servant everyday? Does it really matter whether you are or not? You better believe it is. Charles Stanley in his "Hungering and Thirsting for God" podcast said it well. (In fact, if you do not get his podcasts, I highly recommend him. You can also go on-line and order the readings at intouch.org).

"If you think about how Jesus looked at Himself, He said, “I didn’t come to
be served.” He said, “I came to give my life, a ransom for many, to be a
servant.” This is so good. Then he followed with some saying, "Well
you don't know my boss and about my job." Charles Stanley followed with the
following answer; "Do you know who your real boss is? Your real boss is the
Lord, Jesus Christ!"

You know, I never thought of it in that respect before, but it is so true. God is our boss. Our instructions are in part in the Bible, the rest is spoken to us as we walk with Him and He teaches us. Of course we have earth bosses at our jobs, but...the one we must "always" follow is the Lord.

I guess I should probably clarify this a little better. We have bosses here on earth with the employment one holds. Does this mean you don't have to listen to what they say since God is our boss. No, you still have a boss to follow here as well. One thing to think about though, if your boss is doing things you know is wrong, one should not follow, and it would be wise to try to stop it, or leave and find a job where your boss is on the up-and-up.

It would be easier and nice if we were all believers/followers of Christ, but we're not. Therefore it is wise to ask for discernment, be a servant of the Lord "everyday" and not just on Sundays. The more we follow, hunger and thirst for God, the better we will do in the world. We will be able to avoid the worldly ways much easier.

Our Pastor put it well the other day when talking about often times people will walk into church feeling down, tired, trodden, etc. and come to church to worship and start to feel better, then get filled with the word, and by the time they leave church, they feel good again, only to repeat the whole scenario the following Sunday. That isn't the way it is suppose to be. We should be in the word "everyday," praying "everyday," worshipping Him "everyday."

Although there are many areas in the Bible that tells about being servants, I'm going to quote Colossians 3 out of the NKJV.
Col3:1-17

1 If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above,
where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.

2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.

3 For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.

4 When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.

5 Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth; fornification, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.

6 Because of these things the wrath of God is coming upon the sons
of disobedience,

7 in which you yourselves once walked when you lived in them.

8 But now you yourselves are to put off all these; anger, wrath,
malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth.

9 Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man/[woman] with his/[her] deeds,

10 and have put on the new man/[woman] who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him/[her],

11 where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave nor free, but Christ is all and in all.

12 Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, long suffering;

13 bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint again another, even as Christ forgives you, so you also must do.

14 But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection.

15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.

16 Let the word of Christ dwell in your richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, sinning with grace n your hearts to the Lord.

17 And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord, Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

Colossians pretty much tells us that we need to be servants of the Lord and to abide by Gods instructions to us. Since my last post on trying to change; I've been praying on a regular basis, staying in constant conversation with the Lord (which I pretty much did before), but know now to pray first thing in the morning. Just staying in constant conversation doesn't quite cut it. Also, reading the Bible daily. I've been using the Bible tools at Christianity.com which is listed on my side bar. It's been awesome using that site. They offer so much and the best part, is you set the date you want to start following the reading the Bible in a year program.

I have to say, I've been feeling much lighter, happier, freer, peaceful--you name it--since I've started being committed more to God. Taking care of the grandchildren and dealing with life's trials and tribulations has been getting easier and easier day by day. My belief in the Lord has grown much stronger in this short of time. God is faithful. How can we not be happy in His presence. May the Peace of the Lord our God be with you all at all times. Be blessed.

Explanation

As most of you know, I used to post everday pretty much and often at times would post many times in one day. As of late, my posts are far and few between. I love to blog, and I love to read/visit everyones blogs. Lately even visiting and commenting on others doesn't happen very often. This is not due to any of you, it has to do with many things combined lately.

I'm a very disorganized person, so my goal is to become a better person. Therefore, I'm pouring more of my time into finding out who I am. To learn my purpose in life and where I'm heading. I know my spiritual gifts, and what not, but am trying to go deeper. I want to become a better daughter of the Lord and my earth parents, a better wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. I've been lacking in areas of all those places and am trying to become the person I need to be, the one I was designed to be.

Therefore, I am trying to learn about our Heavenly Father and go spiritually deeper in Him. So there will be times I will not be on here. I'm trying to learn to do all and keep up with what needs to be learned, but I'm sure we are all in agreement that He comes first and foremost. As I go on this journey, I will be sharing what I learn. But please try to understand that right now, I need to devote much of my time learning, which I don't have much spare time these days. The grand kids get a majority of my time, then my days off are catching up around the house, appointments, meetings, you name it.

I am determined to become an organized person and do better all the way around. All I am asking for is patience with me as I go through this stage/season in my life as He works with me. I know God is working on me. I can feel Him working on transforming me from the inside out, which is so exciting. I'm excited to be sharing with you all that He is doing in my life.

During this transformation, I'm sure there will be days when there will be more than one post again. But unfortunately there will also be days of nothing. I am going to discontinue the Thursday recognition, Friday's Funnies, and Sundays blessings, well maybe not Sundays for now to have the opportunity to take the time to grow.

Love and blessings to you all. You are the best, and I know if anyone will understand, all of you wonderful people will! God be with you at all times.

Unplugged Friday

Call me crazy, but I'm going to give this a shot, simply because
Kimba had some great points on why one should do this. I know I've been off on the priorities list lately. There for a while I had so gotten into blogging that I was letting many things go by the way side. I've never been very organized anyhow, but this really made me disorganized. So Friday is a good day to step back and take a look at the whole situation. So Friday's funnies will be on Saturday instead. I must say though, this is going to be tough.

I know I haven't been posting much lately nor visiting much latey due to being gone, then sick, then I've been working diligently on putting together a big cookbook for my daughter. Talk about time consuming. But it was worth it. Now it's catch up time. But Friday, I'll be unplugged. :( I think I can...I think I can...I think I can. We'll just have to wait and see what happens.

So how about joining us! You know you need to. You know you ought to. Can you do it? Hee hee. I know, I'm so bad. Let me know if you are going to join the great unplug it!

Very Sobering Story

Jack took a long look at his speedometer before slowing down: 73 in a 55 zone.
Fourth time in as many months. How could a guy get caught so often?
When his car had slowed to 10 miles an hour, Jack pulled over, but only partially.
Let the cop worry about the potential traffic hazard. Maybe some other car will tweak his backside with a mirror.
The cop was stepping out of his car, the big pad in hand.
Bob? Bob from Church?
Jack sunk farther into his trench coat. This was worse than the coming ticket. A cop catching a guy from his own church.
A guy who happened to be a little eager to get home after a long day at the office.
A guy he was about to play golf with tomorrow.
Jumping out of the car, he approached a man he saw every Sunday, a man he'd never seen in uniform.
'Hi, Bob. Fancy meeting you like this.'
'Hello, Jack.' No smile.
'Guess you caught me red-handed in a rush to see my wife and kids.'
'Yeah, I guess.' Bob seemed uncertain.
Good. 'I've seen some long days at the office lately. I'm afraid I bent the rules a bit -just this once.' Jack toed at a pebble on the pavement. 'Diane said something about roast beef and potatoes tonight. Know what I mean?'
I know what you mean. I also know that you have a reputation in our precinct .'
Ouch. This was not going in the right direction. Time to change tactics.
'What'd you clock me at?'
'Seventy. Would you sit back in your car please?'
'Now wait a minute here, Bob. I checked as soon as I saw you. I was barely nudging 65.' The lie seemed to come easier with every ticket.
'Please, Jack, in the car'
Flustered, Jack hunched himself through the still-open door. Slamming it shut, he stared at the dashboard. He was in no rush to open the window. The minutes ticked by. Bob scribbled away on the pad. Why hadn't he asked for a driver's license? Whatever the reason, it would be a month of Sundays before Jack ever sat near this cop again.
A tap on the door jerked his head to the left. There was Bob, a folded paper in hand Jack rolled down the window a mere two inches, just enough room for Bob to pass him the slip.
'Thanks.' Jack could not quite keep the sneer out of his voice.
Bob returned to his police car without a word. Jack watched his retreat in the mirror.
Jack unfolded the sheet of paper. How much was this one going to cost?
Wait a minute. What was this? Some kind of joke? Certainly not a ticket. Jack began to read: 'Dear Jack,
Once upon a time I had a daughter. She was six when killed by a car. You guessed it - a speeding driver.
A fine and three months in jail, and the man was free. Free to hug his daughters, all three of them.
I only had one, and I'm going to have to wait until Heaven before I can ever hug her again.
thousand times I've tried to forgive that man. A thousand times I thought I had. Maybe I did, but I need to do it again. Even now.
Pray for me. And be careful, Jack, my son is all I have left.'
'Bob'
Jack turned around in time to see Bob's car pull away and head down the road. Jack watched until it disappeared.
A full 15 minutes later, he too, pulled away and drove slowly home, praying for forgiveness and hugging a surprised wife and kids when he arrived.
Life is precious. Handle with care. This is an important message; please pass it along to your friends. Drive safely and carefully. Remember, cars are not the only things recalled by their maker.
Pass this on, you may save a life. Maybe not, but we'll never know if we don't try.
May today there be peace within you. May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
'I believe that friends are quiet angels who lift us to our feet when our wings have trouble remembering how to fly.'

Encounter

Well, I know I had said I was going to do a post on my encounter experience. That was before I fournd out that it is to be kept quiet so those that will be going through it will be suprised. This makes perfect sense.

All I will say is if you have the opportunity to attend and encounter, do so. It is the best thing you could do for yourself. It was an awesome weekend that I will never forget. I couldn't quit smiling. The feeling was beyond anything I could explain. I had so much patience with the grand children aftewards and felt so much love in my heart for everyone.

Okay, enough said, just make sure if you have a chance to attend an encounter, do so! It will be all worth it, trust me.

Say it Forward

This week, (I'm sorry, I'm late with this), goes to Tami at Diary of a Mad Woman. I want to thank you Tami, as you are always leaving sweet comments. Your comments are very much appreciated and guaranteed to give me a lift each time I read them. Your thoughtful is so kind. Thank you for being such a joyous addition to the blog. I enjoy reading your blog as well.

Weekend Happenings

This weekend will without a doubt be one of the best weekends I have ever had. I am attending a Women's Encounter Session! Wow! If you ever get the chance to attend one, do it! This has been an awesome experience. I love Pastor Ken, Connie, Tracy and Krist. They have been fabulous in leading us through the event. Our Table/Prayer Leaders have been fabulous as well. I had the most beautiful encounter today. I will write all about it in a few days. For now, I just want to take time to meditate on all I've experienced and learned. So please forgive me for not commenting and blogging if I don't get to it. I probably will, but will wait to write about the experience until I've had time to really absorb the full effects. I can't wait to go back tomorrow.

Any hoo, hope you all are having a wonderful weekend. Smile, God loves you, and so do I! Don't let the little things in life get you down. Remember who is in control. Let Him take the wheel. Toodles for now.

Kreativ Blogger

My dear sweet friend Valerie Lynn at Simply 4 God awarded me this. Like Valerie, when I first started blogging, I wasn't even sure if it was something that was going to fly and the last thing I thought about was receiving awards. Not that I mind, it is very humbling to be thought of. My whole thought was I want to help spread the word about Jesus and how coming to know our Creator can really change your life.

The best part about the rewards is not receiving them, but to give them. I've always been a person who loves to give. (Too bad I'm not rich, you all would be in luck.) ;) Tee hee. And the best part about this reward is there is no limit as to how many of these you can send out. Although, Valerie had a good share of those that I follow on a regular basis, there are still some left to send it too, so here goes. I'm going to go by the creativity of your blog to make it more fun, but I have to say, I would give it to all of you if possible. You all deserve it!!!

So here goes:
Heather at Simply Heather--does she put together some great blog skins or what? Plus now she has her camera and has added photo's, and here creative writing skills are awesome!

Hon at God is Our First Love--I mean, who can avoid that chocolate face!!! ;) Not to mention her creativeness with the youth group she teaches.

Roberta at For His Glory--What an inspiration! I love your flowers and your cheeriness and I could go on and on!

Grace at We Live To Tell God's Amazing Grace--She has the most creative articles to post about. Talk about getting information needed, she's the one to go to!

Susie Q at Rabbit Run Cottage--She always has some unique header picture--and her stories about her beloved Kipper, now that's creative!

Now there are many more that I would have loved to have added, but many do not accept awards any more. But you still deserve the award. Love, hugs and blessings to all!

Bear Hug Award

This Award comes from Tami at Diary of a Mad Woman. Make sure you stop on over and say hello to her and check out her blog if you haven't already done so. She loves art and made this button herself. So keep an eye out for more to come! Thank you Tami.
Now, she asked that we share it with someone we might know that is down, or needs a hug so I'm going to share this with Susie Q simply because she is always so kind and well, she's someone I would want to give a hug to, not that I wouldn't with the rest of you, but this one goes out to her!

Thankful Thursday

There are so many things I'm thankful for, but first and foremost our Heavenly Father! I love you Lord! I Love You Lord! You bring such great blessings even in the midst of our darkest hours.

I'm thankful for the Pastors of our church and our church family. For with them we've grown and learned. Their leadership has shown light to so many things that God wants us to know. Their obedience shows and flows into us. I'm thankful for the thankless hours they spend trying to make sure we all learn.

I'm thankful for my family, my whole family. Without them, life would be pretty dull. They keep me busy and that is good. I learn from them as well. Of course my hubby is the best a woman could ever ask for, my parents taught me love and respect, my grandmother taught me the way to the Lord, my son led us back to the Lord, my sisters what it really means to be there for one another, daughter how to love unconditionally, my grandkids, just how special life is with young people in our lives. And so, so much more and family members that aren't even mentioned. I could write a book.

I'm thankful for friends, whether they be known personally or through here, for the spiritual growth, for the heart felt thoughtfulness and caring, for being real friends. Since coming back to the Lord, I'm met soooooo many wonderful people. The loving hearts are just so wonderful and beautiful. I can not begin to explain the gratefulness I feel to each of you. You all have been such a beautiful blessing in my life. Thank you!

God's Calling!

I just felt compelled to write just now. After visiting as many blogs as I could handle last night and today (still weak), I realized something very special. God is calling to us loud and clear! Have you noticed that?

If you take a look at many, there are those with great testimonies to God's love. Those who are asking for the lost to come to Christ. Those that are sharing the Gospel. There is so much love for God, so much good that is being spoken.

I believe this is the Lord moving in us. I'm believing like many that God is up to something big. He's counting on us to listen for Him, to follow His leads. That is why it is so important for us to be obedient, to reach out to others in need, to walk together in fellowship. As in numbers His love is mightier. TOGETHER, WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

May the Lord continue to shine His light upon each of you, to pour His blessings upon you. When you reach a day when you feel like something just isn't right, get quiet with the Lord. He will lead you through your troubled times. Always rely on Him, let Him lead. Reach out to your fellow man and let them fell God's love flow. Plant that seed and watch it grow and grow and grow! God Bless each and everyone of you my dear sisters and brothers. Love to you all!

We All Have A Purpose In This World

This video has a very important message in it. I will write some thoughts on this very video after it plays. I'd love for you all to take the time to listen to the whole thing. Thank you and God Bless.

Leeland: "Tears of the Saints"



This is the same song with in Christ Alone as well, but the video has more to it with some powerful words and more powerful pictures.



I say hats off to Leeland, and young man with such a strong heart for God.

Anyway, tonight as my hubby, son & I sat and listened to Pastor Ken Wilde's message from this past Sunday since we were sick and unable to attend. Wow! It was very powerful. I learned many things from that and then the Lord started to move in me. I'm going to apologize now if I go in circles. I have so much going through my head right now. I love it when He fills us up!

For starters, I've always been a lover of people. I've always thought that if we look hard enough we can see the good in everyone. I used to drive my parents nuts, as they thought I was going to get hurt with that attitude. We lived near an Indian reservation from the age of five to age nine. We had some rough experiences with them, and I was being taught not to trust them. I tried to explain that just because there were a few that caused a lot of serious trouble it didn't make them all bad. I befriended some and it drove my parents crazy. I didn't care. I was out to prove a point, that you can't pass judgment on all for the happenings of a few. Besides there is bad in every race, but there is more good in every race as well.

We become a product of our environments when we don't let the Lord in our lives. Of course back then, I didn't understand enough to fight for my beliefs through Christ. To this day, I get frustrated with all the cursing's towards one another. I've wanted to see an end to this evil ever since I could see it happening.

I've been listening to this worship song off and on and each time it has basically brought me to my knees and I sing it out loud, not caring who hears me. It has had some power on me, pulling at the heart strings, almost like someone was saying, come on, follow Me, follow the dreams placed in your heart. I thought, me, make a difference? Yeah right, what can I do? I'm just some lowly person with a small voice.

Well tonight combined with Pastor Ken's message partially on dreams, I realized, this was placed in my heart at a very young age. It is the one dream that has stayed with me over the years. One person can make a difference. It started with Pastor Ken, then Leeland, and now it's in my hands to keep it going.

WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE! We are children of the Lord. We have His passion in us. He created us to live the life He chose for us. All we have to do is listen to His voice, or follow the dreams He gives us. As Pastor Ken stated, "Get creative, He wants us to be creative!"

Another part of the message was about praying. Do any of you wander off while praying? I sure do, as Pastor said, we all do at some time. Well it's not that we are being taken by the devil per Se, it could be the Lord trying to tell us or show us something. He's using our prayer time to talk to us. Let the thoughts flow. Any way, I would highly suggest just watching the message from Pastor to get the jest of the whole message. I learned a lot from it. His messages just keep getting better and better. Each of equal importance. You can feel the Lord's presence in there, and you can see Him working through Pastor.

I believe God is wanting us to go higher. To live fuller life's. To do more to reach out in our communities, in the world. He's calling to His children to reach out. As Pastor said, "It's not about money." There are many ways we can all be doing something to make a difference.

I finally figured out why this song has been touching me and talking to me so loudly. My gift, "Healing" if you remember a few posts back I had talked about spiritual gifts and could not figure out why healing is such a big one for me. Well it started to come to light and then hit me "whoosh" like a flood tonight! Praise God for His enlightenment. This song has a message, reach out to the lost and lonely, the crippled and frightened, the prodigals we are to lead them home. We can make a difference!

I'll post a different post on some ideas. I don't want to make this one too long and lose anyone. ;)

Out Once Again

I'll be out of the blog world once again as I am battling some nasty virus. Hubby was coming down with it the day I returned home. Friday night I started feeling yuck, then Sat. afternoon it was like being hit with a brick wall. We went to urgent care yesterday which had a two hour wait, along with express and primary health being the same way and the emergency room in Meridian. When we had our blood pressure and all checked, mine was very low. It has never been low. So that was an experience. They ended up sending us to Eagles ER where I ended up having chest x-rays. Hubby has a nasty cough, achey, chills, and sweats, and I have the same without a bad cough, but lungs are full. Some kind of viral infection of the lungs. Just thankful it's not pneumonia. There are so many sick with various kinds of viral infections right now and it usually takes up to 2-4 weeks to get over it. :( We are both still miserable. They put hubby on a cough suppressant and vicadin, and myself on ibuprofen with the option to take the cough syrup that hubby has. Oh, and I was given phenegran too, as I was very nasuesous when ever I would stand up. Almost passed out a few times. The Lord must be trying to get our attention about something. Am praying for release of this evil virus soon. Praying that it stops here, no one else gets it, and all with it receive healing quickly. It is no fun. So I send out love and hugs to all in hopes that all of you are well. God Bless
Also, hope this all made sense. Am really out of it right now. ;)

Friday's Funnies

Today's funny comes from Beleifnet's Religious jokes. Thought this was cute, funny, and held great meaning. :0)

"Why do you keep reading the Bible everyday?" the teenage girl asked her grandfather. "Well, it's a bit like cramming for your final exam," said Granddad.

In a sense it is like cramming for your final exam, as knowing and living by the Bible is vital to make it in the house of Jesus. We must study the word, understand the word, and live by it to the best of our ability.

In school, final exams we must study, know the material and take the test. In order to pass, you must understand the material.

Hope this brought a smile to you all as well! Have a wonderful joyous weekend.

Commenter Recognition

Each time it is very hard to chose who to recognize, as so many of you are loyal to the blog. This week goes to Heather at Simply Heather. Thank you Heather, you have been with me almost from the beginning. You always have such kind words and are such an inspiration. You are a beautiful sister in Christ. Thank you for all you wonderful comments, and help. It is a joy to know you. You really inspire me with your blog and you comments.

Blessings, love, and hugs to you dear sweet sister.

Thankful Thursday

I'm thankful for all of you! When I read all the comments under the "Life As It Is" post, you all brought me to tears. You are all so sweet and beautiful. Thank you for the uplifting words of encouragement. Thank you for your prayers and support. Thank you for the advice and scriptures.

I'm also thankful that all is better with everyone! Sarah is still in a lot of pain, will need two operations, one on her herniated discs, and one on her neck. But...she is able to move more now and is dealing with the pain much better.

Dad is still hurting but is going to be taken care of tomorrow. He really worked hard right along with us. We were all hurting.

Mom is still struggling with some issues, but over all is doing so much better.

Hubby took care of the little ones this weekend, and kept two of the girls overnight on Sat. and took the two of them along with the baby to church Sat. night. I'm so lucky to have such a sweet caring husband. The Lord has blessed me over and over again.

I'm thankful for such a loving caring Father God! I'll write a post explaining it all another day.

But once again, I am thankful for all of you. Prayer in numbers is awesome! The Lord has answered, and life is back on a level surface. Once again, am looking forward, focusing on Jesus. Hallelujah!

May the Lord continue to Bless You Always. Much love to each and everyone of you.

Back In The Saddle

Well, made it back from helping out my sister and spending some time with my folks. Am one whooped puppy. Had a hard time driving back home today, but it was all worthwhile. I'm going to start back into the blog world slowly with this nice poem my sister-in-law sent me. Thought it was very appropriate. Not to leave out the men, but you are all special.

A Poem About Our Girlfriends

Someone will always be prettier.
Someone will always be smarter.
Some of their houses will be bigger.
Some will drive a better car.
Their children will do better in school.
And their husband will fix more things around the house.
So let it go, and love you and your circumstances.
Think about it!The prettiest woman in the world can have hell in her heart.
The most highly favored woman on your job may be unable to have children.
The richest woman you know, she's got the car, the house, the clothes~ might be lonely.
And the word says, "If I have not Love, I am nothing."
So, again, love you.
Love who you are.
Look in the mirror in the morning and smile and say, "I am too Blessed to be Stressed and too Anointed, to be Disappointed!''
Winners make things happen~~ Losers let things happen.
'Be 'Blessed' Ladies and pass this on to encourage another woman.'To the world you might be one person, to me you are special!

Yes You ARE!!! We all are in God's eye's. Thought this was a very good message. I'll try to catch up with you all soon. For now, I'm going to try and catch up with the hubby, kids, and grand kids and get rested up. Missed you all. Have a great rest of the week and weekend!

Life As It Is

I felt compelled to write this tonight as there is a lesson in it all, so please bear with me.

For about a month now, I've been up and down with emotions; doing battle with the enemy. I was trying hard to figure it all out. Asking the Lord to shed some light as to which way to go, what to think, what to do. I'll start this with one week at a time.

The first week was the beginning of the fight. I'm a grandmother that loves her grandchildren more than I could ever explain. They bring so much joy to life. So when I see things going on that can be harmful to them, that teaches them the wrong path in life, I let it fester until I have a hard time dealing with it all. I want so bad to shake my kids and say, what are you thinking? Why are you letting this happen? Don't you care?

Then I hear a small voice say, remember, I'm in control, or a message will come my way to remind me. I keep reading message after message about not worrying. I've even written some that I've read as a reminder. But the worry continues on. So there's a struggle in itself.

As time goes on, I read about many others struggling. It bothers me that so many are, but for some reason, I have a strong faith that all will be well with them, and find the strength to be supportive. So then I think why can't I do that with my own family. I have a dear friend that is really struggling, and have been worried about here. Here again is the worry. I keep repeating over and over again, don't worry, don't worry, don't worry. I can even hear Charles Stanley saying those very words over and over, as he had done a podcast on that very subject.

My little sister is getting worse. She's having a lot of numbness, shooting pain, can't sit at all. When she has to it's excruciating pain. The pain pills don't help much. Out of a job, a husband who is burnt out on taking care of the little ones, kids that don't want to help. Auuggghhh. I can't do anything to help. I feel trapped. I have to be here for the kids, but I'm needed there too. Lord, why is this happening? I want to scream, cry, whatever. Then I recount all the blessings that have been bestowed upon many and tell myself, this is a storm that will pass too.

Things look like they are going to look up and wham, another storm! What is going on? I've been getting sick often. Can't seem to get over this upper respiratory garbage, kids (that is grand kids) are struggling, sister is worse, dad is having more problems. And then we get the news our friend battling cancer; they find out that it's in his brain, lungs, and bones. Well right then one say, "He'll never make it." But...God is so good, he's healing him! So Glory to God, there is beauty and light and we must hang onto that. Spirits are lifted, worry is disappearing, this is a testimony that storms do past, and we get through them.

But then more bad news about my sister. It seems she just isn't going to be cut a break. It's one thing after another for her. I become very frustrated as why is this happening to such a sweet person that would give her life for another. She would do anything for anyone. Why Lord? Then I'm reminded that we should never ask why. He has the plans all laid out. I remind myself that Satan has been sending his dark angels to attack left and right. What am I doing? I can't let him win! No way! Then I see the grand kids picking themselves back up, and wham, they are down again. Ughhh, when is it going to stop!

Tonight, sitting and watching the Gaithers and their Heaven episode. I'm touched with such warmth of thinking of that glorious day when we go home. Then these two precious little girls come on and the oldest says, she thinks about how she wants to go home a lot. Instantly I think of all the little children that suffer, I think of my grand kids and a load is lifted off my shoulders as He whispers, "They may be suffering now, but remember, someday they will suffer no more!" Oh what a beautiful thought that was. Then it dawned on me, someday my sisters struggles will be no more. She too will go home and be pain free, stress free, with a smile that warms the heart. Someday we too will be there. The spell breaks, I'm free! Tears of joy stream down my face as I think about all the glory He brings, and worry shall be no more.

Thank you dear sweet Jesus for rescuing me from that constant plunging into the depths of nowhere where worry dwells.

Matthew 6:25-24 NKJV

"25 Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat
or what you will drink; not about your body, what you will put on. Is not life
more than food and the body more than clothing?

26 Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather
into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than
they?

27 Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?

28 So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field,
how they grow; they neither toil nor spin;

29 and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed
like one of these.

30 Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and
tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of
little faith?

31 Therefore do now worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we
drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'

32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. for your heavenly Father
knows that you need all these things.

33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these
things shall be added to you.

34 Therefore do now worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about
it's own things. Sufficient for the day is it's own trouble."

You see, my downfall was that I was not always holding onto faith. I wasn't always seeking the kingdom of God. I was relying on myself. Many a time when the worry got so intense I would be nudged and reminded, "You can't do it alone." So I give myself fully and completely to Him. Thank you Father for rescuing me once again when I did not follow. Thank you for knowing my heart. Forgive me Father for not keeping the full faith of you, for walking alone. By your perfecting timing, by your plans, we shall wait upon the Lord. So off to read through Psalms, Proverbs, and Isaiah once again to be reminded of all I need to do. His word is mighty, and gives us strength.

May the roller coaster rides of everyone else cease right now. May the strength of the Lord walk with you and guide you. How many times have I written, "Face forward, keeping your eyes on Jesus?" Hmmmm, makes you think. It's easy to know, it's easy to write, but to follow isn't always easy. May the enemy be tromped and stomped back down, the armor of God put to work to block those poison arrows of deception. May we all be clothed with the gift of discernment. Stay in the light and out of the darkness. The Lord is our Savior! Be blessed each and everyone of you.

NOTE: I will be away again for a few days. I'm going to go help out my sister. Please keep Sarah in your prayers. Thank you, and God Bless!

Unfortunately Tammy

Unfortunately Tammy idea comes from Debra at Clothed With Scarlet who got the idea from Kim at Homesteaders Heart. You google "unfortunately (name)" and see what you come up with. This can be quite funny. Go ahead! Give it a try and then let me know what you findout as well. Would love to read more funny stuff.

1. Unfortunately I don't speak the love language that way any more. ??? (Oh my, this isn't good, especially after all the sweet things hubby and I just said to one another.) :) ha ha

2. Unfortunately I'm having flight problems, am lost, and struggling with gymnastics, I'm over reacting and crying to the cameras outside the train station. (geesh, always getting lost, because my male counterpart will not ask for directions.) ;)

3. Unfortunately I get lost again and start bickering with my team mate again while unnecessarily climbing a mountain! (Boy, I seem a bit cranky, what's up with that?)

4. Had to search for the key on the hill and only came in eighth place. ;( (darn the luck!)

5. I'm no longer managing two pro wrestling teams, nor wrestling myself any more. (Ha ha, me a wrestler!)

Buyer Beware

Laura Peach has a good message at Silence is Broken that talks about the economy and brands of goods we purchase. I thought it was so good that I would write a piece on it as well, as it is a good reminder. Be sure and visit her site and read what she has written.

We worry about the economy and the way it is going. We are seeing government spending, spending, spending and wondering how in the world this is going to fix our economy. Well there is something we can be doing to keep Americans in work. That is by buying USA made products. I'm guilty of just grabbing products and not paying attention to where they have been made. Do you realize how many things offered to consumers are made in foriegn countries? Now I know we need one another and we need to support other countries as well, as that's what America is about, caring for all!

But...we also need to be supporting our own country. So from now on, check the lables, see where he products were made, make a sacrifice, give up that name brand you love so much and buy made in America/USA products. Let's start supporting our own country better and keep American's in jobs. We need to do our part and not just rely on government to fix it all, as that obviously is not going to happen.

So United We Stand, In God We Trust! Make an Impact, support your country. I for one am going to be a much better consumer and watch what I buy.

May the Lord Bless each and everyone of you. Make a ripple and watch it grow, and grow, and grow. Make an Impact in everyday life. And don't forget to P.U.S.H.
Love you all!

Adversity

Today on Prime Time With God (PTWG) (a link is on my side bar), a perfect timing prayer is available with some great words on adversity. I felt this is perfect timing, as many of us are experiencing adversity as the enemy attacks strongly with the knowledge that many are giving themselves to Christ. He's trying to gain as many of us back. But we need to stand steadfast in our battles and rely on our Heavenly Father to get us through, bring back Keep Your Eyes on Jesus! Focus and Look Ahead. Through Him we can get through anything. Without Him, we are nothing. Here is today's message.

Today's Prayer Dear Lord

I pray that You will give me the insight as to how to use the tools You have given me--whether spiritual gifts, talents, skills, work place or other--as a ministry in daily life. I don't just want to work, take care of my self and my family, my dwelling place, and participate in church life, I want to actually have a mind of ministry to do Your will and impact lives for You. May You move and minister through my life to accomplish Your purpose. Thank You. In Jesus' name, amen.

The University of Adversity

TGIF Today God Is First Volume 2, by Os Hillman

03-03-2009"

Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed" (1 Peter 4:12-13).

I've observed a principle: The pathway to leadership almost always takes us through the valley of adversity. We see this principle not only in the story of Joseph, who endured thirteen years of adversity, but also in the lives of many other leaders in both the Old and New Testament.

Moses was raised in the royal splendor of Pharaoh's household in Egypt, but he was forced to flee and spend 40 years in desert exile before God spoke from a burning bush and called him to lead the Hebrew people out of slavery. Joshua spent the years of his youth as a slave in Egypt and his middle-aged years wandering in the desert at Moses' side. He was well acquainted with adversity when God called him to lead Israel's armies in the conquest of Canaan. The prophet Daniel was thrown into a den of hungry lions before he could reach a place of power and influence in the Babylonian courts. And we see this same pattern played out in the lives of David, Isaiah, Amos, Hosea and other Old Testament leaders.

Turning to the New Testament, we see that even Jesus had to face adversity in the desert, suffering hunger, thirst, temptation and opposition from Satan. Only then could He begin His public ministry. The Lord's disciples had to endure the loss of their Master, the failure of their own faith and character, and the dark days of despair between the cross and the empty tomb before they could become the founding leaders of the Lord's church.

It's hard to find anyone in Christian history who became a great leader without earning an advanced degree at the "University of Adversity."

Marriage Monday

I'm joining Denise at Shorty Bears Place with Marriage Monday. I thought this was a great way to share the great works of our Lord!

My hubby and I have been married 27 years. It hasn't been all glorious, but thanks to the Lord, it has been the best two years that has made the whole 27 years worthwhile. When we gave ourselfs to the Lord, our marriage became the strongest it's ever been. I'm so grateful to the work the Lord has done with him. He's become my rock, soul mate, best friend, glorious earth father and grand father, and the most wonderful husband a woman could ever ask for.

Don't get me wrong. I've always loved him through thick and thin. I took my vows seriously when I married him. I vowed to never break them. We both made mistakes, but I believe it happened so that we could grow stronger together. I strongly believe it takes two to make or break a relationship. My hubby takes a lot on his shoulders for the problems we had, but I believe we both had an equal share in that. Besides, the Lord wants us to look forward, not behind. We learned from our mistakes, and that's what matters.

He now has more faith than I could have ever imagined. He leads our family in ways I would never have thought possible in my wildest dreams. He's teaching me every day. I draw a lot of strength from him. I'm proud of all that he does, and love spending any free moment we have together. I look forward to the rest of our lives together. He's an amazing man, and I knew from the moment I saw him that he was a keeper. ;) God works in misterious wonderful ways. I thank God for him daily.

Show Support

Valerie Lynne at Simply 4 God is suffering from a pinched nerve in her neck. I know from experience this can be very painful. It's radiating down her arm now. Please stop by with a word of encouragement and pray for quick healing for her and share the love. She's been through a lot lately, but the Lord has been good to her and pulled her through. Let's pray she is healed quickly this time. Thank you and God Bless.

Wishes for You

This is just to wish you all a very wonderful week. If you are in an area with a sky full of clouds with little to no sun like here, may this basket of pretty flowers bring sunshine to your day. Just knowing someone is thinking of you, and wishing you happiness can bring on the sun and smiles.