Saturday, February 28, 2009

Two Thousand Mark

I've hit the 2,000 mark on visitors! I just want to say thank you to all who visit here. I hope you get something out of it. My goal is to touch hearts with the word of the Lord, bring laughter, and show the joy that children have to offer. For without the Lord, we are nothing.

You have no idea how much each of you bless me. You show of kindness, your kind words, your sharing of love, and being there. Everyone of you has a special place in my heart. Visiting your blogs brings joy to my heart, as I learn so much. Even through the times of hardship, there are lessons to be learned. There is also many laughs that are shared, which brightens the day. I wish I was good with words. The main thing I'm trying to say is Thank You, you all are such a joy to know. The friendships that continue to grow are beautiful. Looking forward to more sharing of what ever gifts we all bring to one another.

Thank You, Thank You, Thank You! May the Good Lord Shine His Light Upon Each One of You. Pour His blessings out on to each and everyone of you. Love to all!

Friday, February 27, 2009

Commenter Recognition

Mom Blogs

I'm joining Five Minutes For Mom (5M4M) in recognizing sweet commenters. It's a way to recognize those that visit your blog and comment. (5M4M)

This weeks blog commenter recognition goes to Chris at Prayer. Thank you Chris for all your visits, encouraging words, and comments. Make sure you all stop in and visit Chris.

You can go to 5M4M to get the button if you all would like to join in on Say it forward Fridays. Of course I enjoy everyone's comments and love you all.

Friday's Funnies



I thought of this when reading another blog. It made me giggle and think of the fun adventure we had a few years back. It's funny today, but at the time, well, you decide. ;) Ha ha

While living in base housing on Mountain Home Air Force Base (MHAFB), we lived in a single unit near a huge desert field. There was a row of houses seperating us from the field.

Of course, everything seemed to happen every time hubby had to go TDY (on temporary duty somewhere else). It never failed. This particular time was a night mare but hilarious. When I look back and think of how funny we must have looked, I get to laughing.

It was a fall night, we were all nestled in our warm beds, of course minus hubby. :( When all of a sudden, Smokey, our sweet grey kitty crawled into bed with me making a weird noise. I woke up and noticed he had something in his mouth that looked liked tissue. I went to grab it thinking he was choking, when some little voice said, "No! Turn on the light first." So I reached over and turned on the lamp, and EEEEEKKKKK!!!!

Smokey quickly dropped what was in his mouth, it was...(ready for this one?) It was a mouse. No, it was not a dead mouse. It was a live, breathing, frightened field mouse trying to figure out where he should run to. Smokey sits there proud as could be after bringing mom a trophy!

I froze for a brief moment then went and found the hammer and chased that mouse. Up my clothes in the closet he scurries, (long house coat got him there), across the hangar bar, up the wall. Oh my gosh, how am I going to catch this little guy. Smokey is trying to help too needless to say. "Look out mom, let me get him for you."

By this time the kids are up wondering what all that racket was about. Of course they freak and scream. I get them settled down, and then it becomes a fun game. Until...daughter sees it coming out of the closet. Then it's shreaks and scampering feet of every kind.

At this point I'm thinking, why is it only when he is gone? Smokey, you brought me a trophy, but a normal cat will kill it's trophy's. Why do you have to be the abnormal cat and do this when dad is gone? But then I think, hey, you fit in with the family. None of us are normal. {:<( Hee hee.

The chase is on. Down the hall, into the kitchen. Where are you, then I spot him heading for the laundry room. He hides under a stool, or so he thinks he's hiding. "Okay Smokey, no way, you had your chance, he's mine now. I'm fighting the cat to get to the mouse to get rid of it.

Never in my wildest dreams did I think I could kill an innocent animal. You see, I'm an animal lover of all kinds. Hurting an animal just isn't my nature. Especially when looking into their eyes. I know, I'm a sap! But what else was I going to do. I sure wasn't going to sleep with it. I couldn't have it running amuck in the house. So bam, down with the hammer, then it hits me. A mouse is tiny, I have a hammer, I smash it, ugghhh, it's going to splatter. Whew, spared the gore! Thank you Lord!

Then comes another struggle, Smokey still wants to claim mousey for his own. He scoops it up and snarls at me. So the chase is on once again. Mousey has gone to mousey heaven now, but Smokey is still claiming it. "Ah come on Smokey, it's late, the kids & I have to get up early, while you can sleep all day! Give me mousey PLEASE!!!" Finally catch him still growling and hissing at me. I get the mouse, throw it away and off to bed. ;) Ahhh, yes finally.

Wahhhh, I can't go to sleep now. How many more of those little critters is he going to bring into bed with me. Is there more? There must be, cuz where there's one, there is more. Whyyyyyy??? Oh come on, quit being a sissy and just go to sleep. Finally sleep comes. But...the story does not end here. Oh no, not now. This is just the beginning. The best is yet to come. Down the hall on the wall, bump, thump, thump bump... Oh sorry, this isn't a Dr. Suess story. ;)

Oh that's right, hubby reads my posts. Sorry baby, but you have to admit, this was pretty funny. ;) I have to share, it's for lifes best medicine. We all need laughter.

Any way, we go through this several nights before hubby gets back. He thought it was funny hearing about it. He he he...Well, turns out Smokey was not going to leave hubby out of the picture. Oh no, he had to get dad in the fun. After all, dad deserved a trophy too didn't he? Oh yes he did. Mom shouldn't get all the awards. Uh-uh, no way. Dad was his pal! Uh-huh. Yes he was. Smokey loves daddy!

Middle of the night, Smokey jumps in bed, and I knew that sound all too well. Hubby asks what the problem is, I turn on the light and holler he has another mouse. (I'm sitting here laughing thinking of this all over again). Hubby stands up in bed, starts running in place (mind you, we had a water bed at the time) hollering, "get it, get it." I stand there floored, thinking, I've dealt with these buggers for how many nights now, and you are running in place, on the bed, telling me to get it. Augghh, okay, chicken little, I'll get the hammer and take care of it. Geesh. Of course during this time, up the clothes in the closet, back down, and Smokey's on it.

Hubby is still in the bedroom not knowing what to do. Finally get it and squash it. Poor guy, claims he was in shock, hadn't woken up completely, he wasn't scared, just didn't know what to do. ;) That's my hubby. I love him so though. That's okay babe, I'll let you off the hook this time. mmmwwwaaaahhh love you.

Needless to say, we finally found where the buggers were coming in at. I thought it was under the stove, and set traps there, of course never caught them. Or perhaps the laundry room. Set traps there too, but to no avail. They were coming in through the utility closet. Smart little farts. Here was a rather large hole in the floor where the gas pipe came in. Grrr. Why in the world did they leave a whole in the floor. We fixed that rather quickly, and thus that ended the mousey problems. Whew!!! Our fun ended. Thanks to hubby for figuring out there entrance and closing it off!!! My hero. ;) XOXO

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Thursdays Great Message

As always, Pastor Connie gave an awesome message again today. The videos of the messages are up and running now. Today's and last weeks is available for viewing now. You can watch the videos of the messages by clicking here. You won't be disappointed by what you hear. I wish the other days were up as well, as I had missed last weeks and the week before that. At least it's possible to catch up on one of the weeks. Yeah.

So here are some of the highlights. First Tracy, one of Pastors daughters talked about Psalm 33 and Philippians 4:8. I'll leave Psalms for you to read from your Bible, but I wanted to post Philippians, but take it a bit farther with vv. 4-9.

4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
5 Let your graciousness be known to everyone. The Lord is near.
6 Don't worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition whit thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.
7 And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable--if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise--dwell on these things.
9 Do what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.

Personally, I just love this one. It says so much. I've been dealing with trying to shed myself of so much worry. I know we aren't suppose to worry, and place it all in God's hands, but sometimes it's not so easy. But after today it has become much easier. Does it try to creep back in. Oh yeah, you better believe it. Satan will never give up trying. But that's okay, as I'm armed with the armor of God. I'm protected by His great love for me. God is so awesome.

So any way, the message was awesome. Here's just a few highlights to tease you with. Gen 1:27-28. Ps 103:1-5; Numbers 23:20; Pr 10:6; and Ps 105:8. Then from there, I messed up with the scriptures quoted and will have to take better notes when I listen to it again.

God placed Jesus in a kneeling position--a posture of worship.
God's blessings are not gifts, they are a benefit.
God will bless you until:
1. Bless your enemies. Start blessing those you are concerned about.
2. Bless the Lord. Ps 103:1-5
3. Bless the children and your home. Numbers 103:1-5
You can not curse what God has said. Intercede and call your family blessed. Do not use negativity, positiveness allows light and spirit.
4. Bless your circumstances and nut use them. What God has blessed, no one can curse.
To get immediate results, look for principles in the Bible that deals with your situation.
Ask God to increase your principles.

Then she went on to talk about the 14 Spirits of Evil. One being orphan mentality which is a spirit of jealousy. We all should be praying for the release of generational curses.

Col 3:3 Pray we are hidden in Christ; and Col 2:10 (Who are we in Christ?)
1. Righteousness is only found in Christ.
2. Everything you need is available for the taking. It's not what you bring to the Lord, it's what He does with you and letting Him do so.
3. Believe God loves you and affirms us--this will release you from abandonment. There are no second class citizens. We are all complete in Christ and we can relax. Live to please God and not people. You only live for the audience of one!
If you curse the journey it will be cursed; if you bless the journey, it will be blessed.
The spirit of jealousy may be what sent Jesus to the cross. None of us want to have any part of that.
A question that was asked of us: Are there people or circumstances/situations you should be blessing?

Now here is a story of God's true devotion to bringing us to Him.
A woman of the church was discussing scriptures with someone. Another woman not saved, not a Christian listened. She then asked the church woman if she would mind writing the scriptures down for her, as she may need them someday. One day when in the delivery room helping deliver a baby, the baby became stuck in the chamber. The baby turned blue. The doctor pronounced her dead. The nurse (non-believer) pointed her finger and said, "Nothing is impossible with God." Then continued reciting the scriptures. The baby is released, taken to the waiting incubator where the doctor pronounced the baby dead. The nurse placed her hands on the baby and continued to recite the scriptures. The baby started to breathe!!! The baby made it. Praise God! Hallelujah! The next day, the woman called the church woman and asked to be saved!!! Yes!

When listening to this, I had chills coursing throughout my body. I love hearing of this sort of thing. God is Good!

Now go watch the video. :) Tomorrow I will write a post of a revelation of a broken generational curse that I was not aware of at the time. God Bless you all. Have a wonderful, restful, peaceful night.

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Great Reminder

I just came across a great post that I just have to share! It's called Other Forgotten Ten Commandments. It is a wonderful reminder of what we are to be doing. Thank you Toia for a great post! So click on the name above to go and read it. You will find this at Designers Original.

Thankful Thursday



I'm thankful for a Loving God. No matter what we go through, He is always there. He is the only One that is Always there. He is always guiding, teaching, loving us, providing for us, answering... And the list goes on. What more could anyone ask for?

He knows our every need. He knows the exact time we need to hear something. I just love how He works in our lives. The way He brings the right people into our lives when we need them the most. How He knows the right people to teach us through the gifts He has given each individual.

Most of all, He doesn't care what we look like, how we dress, what color our hair is, etc. He designed us. He is happy with who we are. He doesn't expect us to be what others may expect us to be like. He only wants us to be who He put us here to be, to do His work.

Complain about what is expected? No way! I will always strive to do the best I possibly can. I take each day as a testimonial of His love. Remind myself of the great sacrifice of God giving of His only begotten Son to die for our sins. The suffering Jesus endured for us. And of Jesus roaming the desert for 40 days and 40 nights with nothing to drink or eat and being tempted by the devil. I gather strength by those happenings. Reminding myself what a lucky people we are to have such a great daddy!

Thankful I am. No, I could not ask for anything more. I once was a materialist girl. Thinking of how I wish I had what others had. Thinking we needed this and that to keep up with society to look the way I thought we were expected to look. But then I was led back to the Glorious, Loving Father, was saved, and given another chance. Daddy, I won't walk away this time. No, as I am thankful for each day you give me to learn more, to be led by You, and to get closer to You. Thank You Great Heavenly Father for your ever lasting love and faithfulness.

Thank You

My inspiration came in part from Heather's beautiful post and from the loving comments from you all. The Lord uses many different tools to lead, inspire, teach, and even at times reprimand. The blogosphere is one. I had thought, blogging??? me, yeah right. I'm so glad I listened, as I have met so many wonderful people through here. It just comfirms His goodness.

I want to thank each of you for your wonderful hearts. You have lifted me up and gave me knew found strength through Him. The Lord has led us all to one another for a reason. I can't begin to tell you all how grateful I am.

For those that are struggling with whether there is a God, or should you give yourself to Him, just read the different blogs of men and women who have given themselves to God. Through their writings, their gifts, talents, what ever the case, it is obvious that there is a Loving God that is leading us. Where else do you read kindness, goodness, support, etc. such as here?

You won't see daggers being thrown at others. Crisiticism of what you heard, saw, read, etc. You won't hear a lot of cussing/swearing and what not. Instead, you will feel the warmth and the love that is brought out in us trying to live by His ways. Helping one another to learn and understand more of what the Word is. For we can not do it alone. By His Holy Grace we are healed.

What do you have to lose? Nothing. You do have a lot to gain. I can guarantee that any of us would be happy to talk with you about how to give yourself to the Lord, or lead you to someone who can help you. Believe me, you won't be disappointed. Here we do not judge, for we are all equal.

Struggling

Just wanted to apologize. I havn't been posting lately as I had recently had a bad bout with acid reflux and ended up getting a lot of fluid in my lungs which knocked me for a loop. I've been tired out to the point of not wanting to do much of anything. I guess not being able to breathe properly is what caused the tiredness and weakness. I should be getting back to normal by tomorrow, I hope. I promise to catch up on the reading of everyones blogs. I know, yeah right. But seriously, I will!!! Hope all is well with everyone. Have really missed blogging, and especially visiting.

Sunday, February 22, 2009

Awesome Bible Tool Site

I found a really cool site while searching for a picture to add to my last post. I haven't gone over it completely, but knew it was good from the start. Here is the link to Biblos.com
It has all sorts of tools. The one thing I really liked is it gives you cross references for Scriptures, without having to look through different Bibles at one time, which I often do. I've been known to have a stack of Bibles (different versions) on my desk at one time, cross referencing. ;) Now the tools are right at my finger tips. There is also Atlases, Encyclopedia's, Dictionary, Concordances (25 in all) of different tools to use, plus it comes with any language you want, and a whole lot more tools and benefits to using his site. I'm stoked!!! I can't wait to have the time to delve in and read and utilize this site more. Hope someone else out there finds it useful as well.

How Does Your Lamp Glow?

Hubby sent me this one this morning, and I thought it was so good. So I'm going to share it. It is a great reminder. It comes from Crosswalk.com: Neil Anderson's Devotional from Freedom in Christ Ministries.

THE LIGHT TO OUR PATH
Psalm 119:105 Thy word is a lamp to my feet and a light to
my path
.
We live in a world where the flip of a switch instantly lightens or darkens
a room. The lamps in biblical times, on the other hand, burned brightly but
required proper tending. If not cared for, they would become a dwindling flame.
God's Word uses the metaphor of a lamp to teach us about guidance for our lives.
And it provides the opportunity for some graphic applications of this teaching.

Earnestly seeking the clear teaching of God's Word allows the lamp to burn
brightly and us to stay on the path. When we fail to acknowledge our theological
bias and limited perspective, the light lessens and our path becomes twisted.
The lamp flickers when form replaces function and traditions push aside the
commandments of God. The light dims when we stay away from God's Word and the
fellowship of believers. It goes out when we serve another master.

Sometimes we overlook the obvious: God's will is expressed by His Word. As
a child, I didn't struggle with knowing my earthly father's will. He clearly
expressed it to me. I learned early on that we lived together peacefully if I
was quick to obey. Being a farm boy, it made sense to help my father establish
his kingdom (the family farm). Farmers know from nature that we reap what we
sow. Not only that, I stood to inherit the family farm along with my brother and
sisters as my father had with his sisters. Yet I wonder how many Christians
realize that what they are presently sowing in the kingdom of God is what they
will reap for all eternity.

God's will is revealed to us in His Word. There is no substitute for being
"diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to
be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15). The Bible
is a light to your path.

Prayer:
Father, don't let anything enter my life today that would dim
Your glorious light. I choose to find my way by the light of Your Word.

Saturday, February 21, 2009

Facing Difficulties, Trials, & Tribulations

Wow!!! Tonight's service was awesome. It really hit the spot. God's timing is always perfect. I love how the Lord speaks to Pastor Ken and how he obeys Him. The message was based on Acts 27. There is a very good message in that chapter. The following are some headlines of the message, but if you get a chance to go and listen to the message sometime next week, you won't be disappointed. Just click on Capital Christian Center on the side bar; then click on watch and listen, or just listen which ever your prefer and click on the date for this weekend.

The message was about Paul facing a lot of difficulties. Many of us face them as well, but probably will never face all that he had. We should learn to face our storms head on and not fear them. God is always there with us through it all. He will never fail us. Our storms are for a reason. Four ways the storm comes is through ourselves, others, Satan, and God.

Scriptures good for how to deal with difficult times: John 16:33
"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the
world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer. I have overcome the
world.
"
How good is that message!!! And 2 Cor. 6:4 But in all things we commend ourselves as ministers of God; in much patience, in tribulations, in needs, in distresses.

There are three steps to dealing with difficult times.
1. Determine the reason. Is it brought on by yourself, from others, Satan or God. Then you will know what to do. Of course pray. That is the first thing you should always do. Every time you come into the house of the Lord, you will find answers. Ps 73:16-17
When I thought how to understand this, it was too painful for
me--17 until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I
understood their end. It is important to show up in the temple.
2. Determine the result. 2 Cor. 4:17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Remember, the problems are only temporary.
3. Determine my response. How should I handle it?

There are three mistakes we make when in difficult times.
1. We listen to bad advice. Acts 27:11 Nevertheless the centurion was more persuaded by the helmsman and the owner of the ship than by the things spoken by Paul.
2. We follow the crowd. Acts 27:12
And because the harbor was not suitable to winter in, the majority advised
to set sail from there also, if by any means they could reach Phoenix, a harbor
of Crete opening toward the southwest and northwest, and winter there
.
3. We rely on circumstances. Acts 27:13 When the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their desire, putting out to sea, they sailed close by Crete.

We should not always go through every door that is open to us that comes our way.

The one thing that really had an impact on me: We show what type of Christian we are by how we respond to our difficulties, not by how we respond to the good times.
Then; Impatience heads us into a storm. I so needed to hear this one, and thought of others that are struggling right now.

This is not part of the message, just a note I'm inserting here. I've been feeling heavy lately. I couldn't put a finger on it until tonight on the way home. I told my hubby that I have got to shake this heavy feeling. I don't remember just what he asked, but basically if I was struggling with my faith. I told him no, that it is the heaviness I'm feeling for the concern of others struggling and many feeling like giving up. That's when I realized the reason for the heaviness myself. Then I knew I needed to talk about tonight's message. It's powerful in a time of need.
Part of what brought me to this other than Pastor Ken's great message was talking with a dear friend at church. Thank you Cindy. You always take time to listen. I love you for that.

Any way, back to the message. Sorry, I know I have a tendency to be long winded, but when thoughts hit, I have to get them down. ;)

You know, God's purpose is much greater than our pain and problems. Rom. 5:3 And not only that, but we also Glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance. Every storm has a school. There is two more parts to this, but didn't write fast enough. So make sure to catch it when you listen to the message. Are you having problems right now? Don't give up, but instead, grow up! Drifting is coasting down hill. Believe, trust.

There are three things you should not do:
1. Don't drift. Acts 27:3 And the next day we landed at Sidon. And Julius treated Paul kindly and gave him liberty to go to his friends and receive care.
2. Don't discard. Acts 27:18 And because we were exceeding tempest-tossed, the next day they lightened the ship. Dismiss your problems. Don't throw away things you shouldn't. Stay with the ship. Acts 27:31 Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, "Unless these men stay in the ship, you cannot be saved." Have you cut away the life boat. Learn, grow, & develop.
3. Don't despair. Acts Acts 27:20 Now when neither sun not stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest beat on us, all hope that we would be saved was finally given up. God is in control. God is testing us.

We should confess our part Pv 28:13: He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.

Acts 27:34, 25, & 41-44 is other Scriptures talked about.
Acts 27:34 "Therefore I urge you to take nourishment, for this is for your survival, since not a hair will fall from the head of any of you."
Acts 27:25 "Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me."
Acts 27:41-44:
But striking a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the
prow stuck fast and remained immovable, but the stern was being broken up by the violence of the waves. 42 And the soldiers' plan was to kill
the prisoners, lest any of them should swim away and escape. 43
But the centurion, wanting to save Paul, kept them from their purpose, and
commanded that those who could swim should jump overboard first and get to
land, 44 and the rest, some on boards and some on parts of the
ship. And so it was that they all escaped safely to land.
James 4:1-13:18 (I'll leave this one for everyone to read themselves). Envy and self seeking can bring demonic forces into the house. We all need to be peace makers. Difficulty brings the real person out in you.
1. Confront the problem. Face the storm head on. Isaiah 43:2-3:
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers,
they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be
burned. Nor shall the flame scorch you. 3 For I am the Lord your God. The Holy
One of Israel, your Savior; I gave Egypt for your ransom, Ethiopia and Seba in
your place.
2. God will pull us through the storm.
3. Claim the promises.

All Scriptures came from the NJKV. I so want to go and hear this message again tomorrow! Or should I say, receive the counseling again. Loved it. Hope you all are having a great weekend.

Friday, February 20, 2009

How Addicted Are You?

Okay, this is pretty sad. I guess I need to change my ways. I do know this is not completely accurate, as there are days I can't be on here like I like to be. But 80%??? I sure hope hubby doesn't read this post. He already picks on me about blogging as well as our son. I'm doomed I tell ya, doomed!!! Ha Ha

80%How Addicted to Blogging Are You?

Commenter Recognition

Mom Blogs

Five Minutes For Mom (5M4M) has a great blogging carnival going on. It consists of recognizing people who leave comments on your posts. Sometimes it is hard to make it to everyones blogs and comment. So this is a nice way to say I recognize you and appreciate you. Make sure you visit 5M4M to get your button and see how it all works.

My featured commenter for today is Tami at Diary of a Mad Woman. She comments often and leaves some of the sweetest comments and meaningful comments. Make sure you go buy and visit her and check out her blog. She is a sweet woman.

Make sure to check back next Friday to see who is the next recognized commenter. You know I love you all! :)

Friday's Funnies



I couldn't resist this one for today's funnies. I sat and giggled and so did my youngest grand daughter, hubby, and son. Of course we all love birds. I miss my babies. I want to get one again. Any way, enjoy. He loves to entertain.






Bird Shakes His Tail Feathers
Bird Shakes His Tail Feathers

The Sharp Tongue

God's timing as always is perfect! My hubby sent me this one this morning from Crosswalk.com Daily Heartlight Verse. It starts out with:
Proverbs 17:9
"He who covers over an offense promotes love, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends."

It goes on to talk about we think that it's simple gossip that will do no harm. But that is not the case. When we talk about others, we are actually doing damage. There is no such thing as simple gossip. Taming the tongue is not an easy task for those of us that have gossiped for so many years.

I'll admit, I never thought of it as being damaging when discussing problems and what not. But it extended beyond problems, it took on talking about them other than the problem to be dealt with. And instead of taking it to the Lord, we would complain and "gossip." We never thought of it as gossip.

We think, well it's just between us, it's not going to hurt anyone. Well it does hurt others, as the more we complain about someone, the more damage we do towards them in the listeners eyes. We can end up turning someone away, or changing their attitudes towards them, etc. This is exactly what had happened. It's not fair to the person(s) being discussed as they are not able to defend themselves. Perhaps we are seeing things in a different light than what is really happening, which is not fair either.

When a problem exists, it is best to confront the person or let it go and hand it over to the Lord, and of course, pray!

The following is the thoughts on the verse from Crosswalk:

Thoughts on today's verse:
"It's just a little harmless gossip." The Wise Teacher reminds us that gossip is neither little nor
harmless. Its consequences are huge and its damage horrible. Instead, it is much better to be a peacemaker and an offense-mender.

Thought this was a good little reminder of what we should be watching for.

May God Bless you and protect you always.
Make a ripple and watch it grow and grow.
Remember to P.U.S.H.



Thursday, February 19, 2009

Thankful Thursday


I'm thankful for the Lord providing me the most wonderful husband a woman could ever ask for. He is a true God fearing man of the Lord. He is a good leader to his family. He is a remarkable man that has learned the words of the Lord quickly. His thirst and his hunger is contagious.

Whenever I feel down, blue, discouraged, frustrated or whatever the case may be; I can always count on him to pick me up and remind me of whom I need to talk to.

When taking a recent trip, I was a bit anxious as I usually don't drive long distances alone as I get tired real easy. He instantly put my mind at ease by reminding me that God was in control! Yes, this is so true and he was precious for reminding me.

He's an awesome father to our grown children. He's a wonderful grandfather to the grand children. He is so loving and giving of himself to them. He teaches the children about God.

He strives to learn more each and every day and shares what he learns with the rest of us. He's recently gained a business that he's made a Christian ran business. His partner is a Christian as well and loves the fact that they rely on the Lord to lead them to make good decisions and to guide them on what they are to do!

He's a teacher of the Lord's word. He spends a majority of his spare time in the Bible or other religious books. I love his desire to move forward daily in the Lord. I love our life together. I feel so secure and loved by him. I couldn't ask for a better soul mate, best friend, father, grandfather, and personal mate. We went through some rough times, but I knew I wasn't to give up on him, and am thankful I was led to stay with him. 27 sweet years of marriage to a man that I will love and respect for eternity. Thank you babe! I'm so proud of all that you have accomplished in life and in our relationship. You are a wonderful mad of the Lord! I'm happy to be your wife!

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

I'm Back!

Hello All! It is good to be back home, but at the same time was hard to leave. I left Monday morning as you all know. It took longer than normal for some reason to get there. Stopped at my parents house since they were on the way and visited with them. Dad wanted me to stay for dinner, so did so. I hate driving up there at night due to all the deer, but luckily it was okay. It was chaos at my sisters. The poor thing is trying to get her apartment packed up as they are moving into a house that they will be renting. She was in so much pain by the time I arrived. Her youngest son was hauling boxes down to the motor home. Hubby was tending to the girls, and sis was trying to get dinner ready.

Luckily I felt refreshed and took over with dinner and helped with the girls and getting things set up for bed time. Was worried, as she was having some serious pains and did not look well. Plus it was snowing and was suppose to snow hard on the way to Missoula, MO to see the surgeon. It is a 4 hour drive in good weather, and sitting kills her. :( The next morning they had to leave by 5 and it was snowing really hard. Thankfully they made it okay.

Sis will be going back for cortizone shots in her back to see if that will do anything for her and can still do no lifting for two months if they do work. If not, then she definintely has to have an operation.

Her hubby also had an appt. with the VA hospital for his neck which he had injured way back. They need to do an MRI, but could not do it there due to him having plates in his neck. So now he was to travel to another city in MO or WY, (can't remember for sure) and have a special scan done. So needless to say, they have their hands full.

My dad still is in a lot of pain with his busted ribs and he somehow has hurt his back now too. Mom on the other hand is staying active. She has a lot of energy which is amazing since she had little to non before. It is so good to see her doing well. A testimony to God's love. I've been praying steadily for all.

I was going to come back tomorrow, but Jay is still having problems with his new prescription. So I needed to come back and get him in first thing in the morning. Hopefully they can get this all worked out with him. So I came back early.

I get home to find out our daughter had been in an accident and something is wrong with her neck. She goes in tomorrow to try and find out. She also took her oldest daughter in to see a doctor as she's been having problems and found out that her back is really messed up. So here we go again!

The Lord has been answering prayers, and the devil is close on His heals trying to unravel things more. :( But I'm not letting him win this time. I'm standing firm! In fact, I received an e-mail while gone with lots of good advice which I'll share later, but one was that to worry allows satan in, but concern is different. If there is something to be concerned about then pray and ask God to reveal to you what He wants you to do. If it's a worry, then let it go.

Lately, I've been a bundle of nerves worrying about my little sister possibly becoming paralyzed, the stuff her boys are going through, them trying to take care of their grand daughters, my dad and what he's going through, my other sister possibly having cancer again, my son going through what ever he is, our daughter and grand kids, not being able to see two of them, friends that are really struggling with the attacks on them and/or their family members. So I was really down and out and just had no ambition.

But that has all changed. I have been able to take what I can do something about and try to work on that, waiting for an answer to it all, and that, that I can not do a thing about, will hand it to the Lord. It's a sense of freedom actually. Mom & I had the first really good discussion about the Lord last night which really helped. We talked about this very subject. Once again, God's timing as always was perfect.

Do I still worry? Yeah, to some degree, but not to the point where I'm an emotional basket case, shakey, not able to sleep, cranky, and spending every waking minute dwelling on it all. That all is gone!!! Thank You Father!

So why did I write about all this; to show God's faithfulness, lessons, and release of worry. Keeping an positive attitude really does make a big difference. I learned over the course of the three days to relax and deal with things when it happens, following His guidance. Although there is so much negativity going on, there is still a lot of good too! We just have to look past the negative and dwell on the positive.

Oh, and one other quick note of something that is actually funny now. On my way home, I hit the tail end of rush hour traffic as I drove into Boise and Meridian. When low and behold, I met up with those darned, I'm in a hurry, I'm going to cut you off and then slow down type stuff, and those that feel it's a thrill to dart in and out. Okay, that's okay, I can handle this. Whew, finally instead of stressing and chewing out drivers that can't hear me anyhow. Then I get almost home at the last four way stop when someone decides to pull a partial stop and goes in front of me. Then stops suddenly, sits there and then turns without signaling. Of course I started to chew him out and then stopped myself. Yeah!!! Getting control of the road rage. God is Good. Thought it was funny though, as I was relaxed on the trip, but the anger started up when getting back to the "big city." Ha ha. "TAKE ME BACK TO THE COUNTRY LIFE, PLEASE!!!"

So now needless to say, I'm homesick for living on a farm again out in the country where life is more peaceful and you learn good family values. Poor hubby, he's going to have to listen to it all again. ;) No, I now know it's not going to happen, so make due with the situation.

UPDATE: As I was typing this out, Jay & I were talking about his struggles. Guess what. I told him that I felt it was because he's given up on his faith. Come to find out, he's been thinking about that, but had questions. He told me what they were, I answered them, and he's decided to cancel his appointment tomorrow and spend the day praying and getting back with the Lord!!! Praise God! Hallelujah! In fact, he's listening to a worship CD right now. Oh how my soul is rejoicing and dancing with joy right now. If we really listen, read, and watch, we'll see His workings taking place. It just came to me, He's working hard on preparing us! Amen!

This is the song that he really wanted to listen to now, he feels better already, headache is gone, sluggishness, depression, and heaviness has dissappeared! Yes!!!!

I Can't Even Walk (Without Holding Your Hand): by Gordon Mote. I love the video that goes with this.



May the Good Lord Bless each and everyone of you!

Monday, February 16, 2009

Struggles

I should be getting on the road right now; but after reading this, I knew it was one that should be shared. What a great message this is. It really made me stop and think. Rick Warren is an outstanding man of God with some great words of wisdom. This comes from The Purpose Driven Life Daily Devotional

Worship: The Barrier of Prideby Rick WarrenIt is not that we think we are
qualified to do anything on our own. Our qualification comes from God. 2
Corinthians 3:5 (NLT) *** *** ***

***Life is a struggle, but what most people don’t realize is that our
struggle, like Jacob’s in Genesis 32:22-32, is really with God! We want to be
God, and there’s no way we’re going to win that struggle, but we try
anyway.

A.W. Tozer said, “The reason why many are still troubled, still seeking,
still making little forward progress is because they haven’t yet come to the end
of themselves. We’re still trying to give orders, and interfering with God’s
work within us.”

We aren’t God, and we never will be. We’re humans, and the times when we
try to be God are the times we end up most like Satan, who tried to be equal
with God, too.

We accept our humanity intellectually, but not emotionally. We give mental
assent to the idea, but when faced with our own limitations, we react with
irritation, anger, and resentment. We want to be taller (or shorter), smarter,
stronger, more talented, beautiful, and wealthy.

We want to have it all and do it all, and become upset when it doesn’t
happen. Then, when we notice God gave others characteristics we don’t have, we
respond with envy, jealousy, and self-pity.

What it means to surrender. Surrendering to God is not
passive resignation, fatalism, or an excuse for laziness. It is not accepting
the status quo. It may mean the exact opposite: sacrificing your life in
resistance to evil and injustice, or suffering in order to change what needs to
be changed. God often calls surrendered people to do battle on his behalf. It’s
not for cowards or doormats.

Surrendering is not putting your brain in neutral and giving up rational
thinking. God would not waste the mind he gave you! God does not want robots to
serve him. Surrendering is not repressing your personality. God wants to use
your unique personality. Rather than being diminished, surrendering enhances
your uniqueness.

C. S. Lewis observed, “The more we let God take us over, the more truly
ourselves we become – because he made us.He invented all the different people
that you and I were intended to be. It is when I turn to Christ, when I give up
myself to His personality, that I first begin to have a real personality of my
own.”

© 2008 Purpose Driven Life. All rights reserved.

Rick Warren is the founding pastor of Saddleback Church in Lake
Forest, Calif., one of America's largest and best-known churches. In addition,
Rick is author of the New York Times bestseller The
Purpose Driven Life
and The
Purpose Driven Church
, which was named one of the 100 Christian books that
changed the 20th Century. He is also founder of Pastors.com, a global Internet
community for ministers.

Resource

Warren, R. Feburary 16, 2009, Worship: The Barrier of Pride, Purpose Driven Life Daily

Devotional, http://www.purposedrivenlife.com/en-US/Home/home.htm

Sunday, February 15, 2009

Out For A Short Time

Hello All to All You Beautiful People!

I will not be posting for a few days. I know I'm already behind on reading/commenting on others blogs already. I'll try hard to catch up when I get back. I'm going to help out my little sister while she goes in to talk to the Neurosurgeon. Hopefully all will go well for her. Please pray for Sarah that she will be placed with a Godly surgeon whil will do right by her. She has had such bad luck with doctors.

May you all have a great week. Hope to see you back here possibly on Thursday. God Bless you all!

The Power of God's Word!

This is a joke from Beliefnets Joke of the Day. There is a point to this. ;)

An elderly woman had just returned to her home from an evening of church services when she was startled by an intruder. She caught the man in the act of robbing her home of its valuables and yelled, "Stop! Acts 2:38!" (Repent and be baptized, in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven.)
The burglar stopped in his tracks. The woman calmly called the police and explained what she had done.
As the officer cuffed the man to take him in, he asked the burglar, "Why did you just stand there? All the old lady did was yell a scripture to you." "Scripture?" replied the burglar. "She said she had an ax and two 38's!"

Scriptures are more powerful than we thought! There is a true story that happened a while back that is similar to this. I don't remember the exact happenings of what all she said, but it's enough to get the impact.
An elderly woman had gotten into her car and a young man jumped into the passengers seat. He told her to give him her money. She told him that she didn't have much. He told her again to give him her money.
She then began praying. He asked her what she was doing.
She told him she was praying for him to be saved and that what ever troubles he was going through to bring him to doin this would be broken.
His eyes welled up with tears.
She brought out her Bible and continued praying. Right there, he gave himself to the Lord!!!

Yes, God's Words are very powerful. What that woman done was very brave. She never showed fear, as she trusted God to save her. She knew that if it was her time to go, then so be it. Instead of freaking out, she prayed and led another to Him. I so loved this story. Do you trust the Lord enough to do something like this? I know this made me take another look at my faith then and even now. I know I need to take my faith up another step.
God Bless each and everyone of you. Make a ripple, let it grow, and watch it grow. Remember to P.U.S.H.

Saturday, February 14, 2009

Happy Valentine's Day!

Happy Valentines! Pictures, Images and Photos

Happy Valentines Day Everyone! This reminded me of how God is Love! Hope you all have a wonderful blessed day. And a Happy Birthday to Valerie Lynn and Congratulations to her making it through her difficult battle with the enemy! So glad to have you back!

May God continue to pour His blessings upon each and everyone of you in abundance. Make a ripple and watch it grow and grow. And remember to Always P.U.S.H.!

Friday, February 13, 2009

Great Post!

Have any of you been struggling about who you are? Lisa has a great post on Messenger International titled: "What are you reflecting?" It's a great message and reminder. If you haven't read it yet, I highly suggest it. A book that really helps women with this reflection is "True Measure of a Woman" written by Lisa Bevere.

Lisa and John are two very amazing people of the Lord. The lessons I've learned from them both have been amazing. God has placed some great people in the ministry. They are two of them I love and trust. May the Lord continue to pour His blessings and wisdom upon you John and Lisa!

Always Watching!

I have to tell you, I love His timing. It is always perfect. I so needed this message today. In fact, I'm going to print it off, carry one with me, and leave a copy on my desk. It's a great reminder. There are times when it is too easy to slip into the world. Lately I've been struggling. I wish it was easy to be like Christ. I wish it was easy to never let the worldly ways get the best of us. But sometimes it does happen. So this is a perfect reminder. My prayer is that it may reach out and help others that may be struggling as well.

This message comes from Prime Time With God: TGIF by OS Hillman, (Today God Is First). Don't you just love the title of this? I always find such uplifting messages in there. Here is the message of today:

They're Always Watching and Listening TGIF Today God Is First Volume 2, by Os Hillman02-12-2009
"About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them" (Acts 16:25-26).

It didn't take long for non-believers to realize I was different in the secular workplaces where I've worked. I didn't participate in the jokes, the dirty language, or criticism of management. I didn't judge them for their behavior because they were merely acting the way they should act as one who does not have Christ in their life. I viewed them as prisoners awaiting their salvation and that I might be the instrument to lead them to my Savior.

I would often be known as the "religious guy." It wasn't because I was particularly vocal or I tried to separate myself; it happened naturally. The Christ in me naturally made me stand out. Jesus called us to be the "salt and light" of any life situation. The secular workplace economy is contrary to the Kingdom of God economy so we should naturally stand out in any situation.

When Paul and Silas were in prison their lifestyle of worship and prayer in the midst of the horrible conditions of a dirty prison stood out in stark contrast to their circumstances. They didn't pray and sing to impress their cellmates, they simply did what was natural to them. Still, "the other prisoners were watching and listening."

No matter where you are, others are watching you to determine if your faith is real or if you're an impostor. The world is looking to discredit your faith. You are a witness always whether you choose to be or not.

"The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. He then brought them out and asked, 'Sirs, what must I do to be saved?'" (Acts 16:29-30). When you begin to reflect the love and power of Christ in your life you won't have to have an evangelism program to win others into the Kingdom. It will be a fruit of your life. The "fish" will actually jump into the boat!

Beware how you conduct your life today. Because the prisoners are watching and listening.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Finances and Today's Economy

Today on Crosswalk.com there is a great article that talks about finances and having to cut back on spending during the economic down fall. This article makes a lot of sense. I talks about staying positive during the whole crisis.

When we look at how we have to make do with less than we are used to having, we set ourselves up for downfalls and depression. It can give you a sense of deprivation. Here's a quote from the article:

"Shifting your focus away from what you wish you had, though, frees you to take a closer look at what you actually do have right now. It’s then that you can discover hidden treasures in your situation. Could it be that living with less money could lead to more satisfaction?"

I know this to actually be true. When growing up, my family did not have a whole lot of money. There were many things that we did without. Granted there were times that we felt we were being deprived as our friends had so much more. But as we grew older, we realized how rich we were even without the money. We grew up learning good values in life rather than being greedy, selfish, and keeping up with the Joneses.

I'm thankful for the fact that we were not given anything we wanted. There are a lot of children growing up today that are given so many material things. I've seen many become selfish and greedy. They want, want, want, and when they don't get it, they throw temper tantrums. It's sad how many are stuck on the material side of life.

Now that the economy is slowly slipping, what are they going to do? Personally, I think it does us some good to be brought back to the basics of life, and learn to appreciate what we have. Life is so much more enjoyable then. You can go here to read the whole article. And remember; Life is Good. It is what we make it.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Bogus Cell Phone Message

There is a cell phone message going around saying that our cell phone numbers are going public. That 20 telemarketers are going to receive our numbers and to call the national do not call directory to block their calls.

I checked with snopes.com and found out that is false. I hadn't heard of this happening before, so decided to make sure. This e-mail has apparently been floating around for some time. So do not worry, as this is not the case. You do not have to make that call.

I've learned the hard way to check out information if you are not sure of the article received. I had sent one out a long time ago on a health issue, only to find out it was false. I wish people wouldn't start this garbage. They cause a lot of unnecessary upset. So if you don't already, double check information if you are not sure.

Monday, February 9, 2009

God's Promises: Tuesday

Shame; Lying; Slander & Reproach; Anger; Guilt; Enemies; Prisoners; Loneliness; Worry; and Pride. Taken from the NKJV.

Shame: Romans 9:33: "As it is written: 'Behold, I lay in Zion a stumbling stone and rock of offense, and whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame."

Lying: 1 Kings 22:16: "So the king said to him, 'How many times shall I make you swear that you tell me nothing but truth in the name of the Lord?"

Slander & Reproach: Psalm 31:20: "You shall hide them in the secret place of Your presence from the plots of man; you shall keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues."

Anger: Ecclesiastes 7:9: "Do not hasten in your spirit to be angry, for anger rests in the bosom of fools. "

Guilt: 1 John 3:20: "For if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things."

Enemies: Exodus 15: 6: "Your right hand O Lord, has become glorious in power; You right hand, O Lord has dashed the enemy in pieces."

Prisoners: Psalm 146: 7: "Who executes justice for the oppressed, who gives food to the hungry. The Lord gives freedom to the prisoners."

Loneliness: Genesis 28:15: "Behold, I am with you and will keep wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done what I have spoken to you."

Worry: Luke 10:41-42: "And Jesus answered and said to her, 'Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her."

Pride: Proverbs 21:4: "A haughty look, a proud heart, and the plowing of the wicked are sin."

God's Promises: Monday

It's the start of another week. Am praying that it will be a beautiful, glorius, blessed week for all!
Belief; Faith; Mercy; Worship; Prayer; Guidance; Fruitfulness; Holy Spirit; Salvation; and Peace. Today's Scriptures taken from the NKJV.

Belief: John 3:18: "He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God."

Faith: Ephesians 2:8: "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God."

Mercy: Exodus 33:19: "Then He said, 'I will make all My goodness pass before you, and I will proclaim the name of the Lord before you. I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion."

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

Prayer: Jeremiah: 29:12: "Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you."

Guidance: Isaiah 28:26: "For He instructs him in right judgment, His God teaches him."

Fruitfulness: Hosea 14: 5: "I will be like the dew to Israel; He shall grow like the lily, and lengthen his roots like Lebanon."

Holy Spirit: Isaiah: 59:21: "As for Me,' says the Lord, 'this is My covenant with them; My Spirit who is upon you, and My words which I have put in your mouth, shall not depart from your mouth, nor from the mouth of your descendants, nor from the mouth of your descendants' descendants,' says the Lord, 'from this time and forevermore."

Salvation: 1 Timothy 2: 3-4: "For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth."

Peace: Isaiah 32:17: "The work of righteousness will be peace, and the effect of righteounesss, quietness and assurance forever."

John 3:16-21


"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him. 18 Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son. 19 This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. 20 Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed, 21 but whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God."

Sunday, February 8, 2009

I Saw The Light!

As I sit her tonight, finally having the chance to catch up on some blog reading, still have half way to go, a great feeling came to light. I love how he turns negative to positive. :)

I had written about the enemy attacking so many, and how so many need prayer and how we all need to be diligently praying for one another and taking a stand.

Well, it hit me tonight as to how that all just seemed so negative. It wasn't meant in that manner, it was meant as a wake up to some and a call out for more prayer; as we can never pray too much.

Then while reading the last good news posts I've read today--so many of them, Hallelujah!--that I heard a small voice saying, "See, not every thing is all gloom and doom right now. Sometimes you allow yourself to fall into that very trap where Satan wants you to fall. He works in ways that you often don't see. He's sneaky and you must be careful. You had written about waiting upon Me. This is exactly what you need to do. I will take care of those problems that you see. It's by my time. Lean on me dear child. Let me carry the burden. Let not your heart be troubled."

How true this is. Why is it we can think we are on the right track and are actually falling into that trap that we don't see. It's because he is as sly as a fox. This is why we need to remain focused on Him. We need to hold the faith. I love the way He saves us. The way He works in us. God Is Good All the Time; and All the Time, God Is Good! :) :) :) Yes, I'm smiling and free! Thank You Lord! And thank you to all of you that shared such great uplifting news. His timing is always perfect.

I saw the light
I saw the light
No more darkness
No more night
Now I'm so happy
No sorrow in sight
Praise the Lord
I saw the light!

Uplifting Story: A Must Read

Have you been needing that special uplifting story. That one where someone's prayer(s) have been answered. Tired of hearing all the strikes being taken on people lately. Well I have just the place for you to visit. This lifted my heart in a song of praise and joy after reading it. It just goes to show how GREAT OUR GOD IS!!! Wait upon the Lord. He is Faithful. You are guaranteed to love this story. Hope you all had a beautiful weekend and have a Wonderful and Blessed Week!
Go here to Beth's and read the great uplifting news. And here's another at Kristen's.

The Wonders of Babes

Have you ever wondered what goes on in a child's mind. You sit and watch them as they start to explore their world. The littlest of things catches their mind. They sit and stare, then reach and touch. As they get a little bigger, are sitting up and able to grasp and hold things, you watch in wonderment.

You buy them developmental toys and let them go at it, but they want what they see around them. Phooey on them toys, I want what my sissy's have or what Omah has. So I dig around in the drawers thinking back to when my two were little. What was it that fascinated them the most. Hmmm, times have changed, my drawers hold different things.

I find a little 2 oz. tupperware cup and give it too him, he is happy for a few minutes, then I find the top to the baster. "Oh yeah Omah, that's the ticket. Oh yeah, this feels good on them gums. Do you know how much they hurt me? I needed something like this. Finally someone figured out what I needed." And he sits for a long time with that turkey baster bulb in tyke heaven.

As they grow older--haven't reached this stage yet, but know it's comin',--you buy them age appropriate toys to form their motor skills more. You bring in a box and whoa, look out! "Gimme that box. I want to play in that box. Hee hee, you can't see me now. I found a place to hide where no one is going to bother me!" Pretty soon they peek out over the edge with squeals of delight and you can't help but laugh.

And now you sit in wonderment. I bought them those toys, and now they would rather play with a box that didn't cost me a dime. Why is it the simple things are what excites them. Pretty soon they have that box tipped over on top of them. It's a fort! Then it's a boat or a racing car. "Oh push me around in this box. Yeah, this is the best toy mom! Thanks a bunch!"

You actually find yourself having fun playing with them in that box. Then come the blankets, comforters, pillows, toys and we are making a fort that takes up the WHOLE living room.
Girls: "Hey Omah, can we bring the baby in here with us?
Omah: "Uh no, I don't think so."
Girls: "Oh come on, we'll be careful."
Omah: "Only if I can come in there too."
Girls: "Oh Omah, you silly, you are too big to come in here with us."
Omah: "I am?" giggle giggle. Oooh ouch, there goes the knees, yikes, okay, maybe I'm getting to old for this after all. Oh what the heck, you only live once. ;)
Girls: "Omah! You did it! You aren't too big! This is fun. Okay, you sleep over there, we are going to sleep here."
Omah's thoughts: Oh the joy to be young again, doing an inexpensive fun camping trip in the middle of the floor. Doesn't get any better than this. Yes, the imagination of a grandma and her beautiful grand children. Life is good.

Then the wonderment disappears, as you are reminded of how the simpler things gets those imagination juices flowing. Yup, I'll keep the plain old paper sacks, card board boxes and all the blankets, sheets, and comforters over all those big expensive toys that get put by the wayside after a short period of joy any old day.

What brought me to this story is my 7 mo. old grandson was sitting next to me on the couch. He was playing with his youngest sisters box from her valentines cards. She decided she wanted the box. Oh my gosh, you would have thought she was torturing him. He screamed at her and let her know that in no way was she taking away his latest prized possession. She backed away and said okay, and he continued to tell her off. It was the funniest thing. Guess she learned her lesson. ;)

Reunited

Well, I'm off to visit my grand kids for the first time in a long time. (Jays kids). Please be praying for a good, successful reunion. For peace among us all. For continuation of visits with them. That there will be no more road blocks between us. Pray for a long term relationship with their mother and the children. Most of all that the children keep their desire for church and the Lord! For all the kids for that matter.
God Bless you all! Have a beautifully blessed Sunday! Much love to each of my brothers and sisters in Christ.

God's Promises: Sunday

God's Correction; God's Faithfulness; Forgiveness; God's Love; Loving God; God's Protection; Word of God; Growth in Grace; Eternal Life; and Seeking God. Taken from the NIV.

God's Correction: 1 Corinthians 11:32: "When we are judged by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be condemned with the world."
When we receive our trials and tribulations, it's to teach us, to discipline us into realizing our wrongs and correct them, as He wants us to come home and live an eternal life with Him.God's

Faithfulness: Numbers 23:19: "God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of a man, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?"
Of course He doesn't. God is the only upright of all and the perfect of all. He does not do anything to harm His children; but instead loves them and encourages them.

Forgiveness: Romans 12: 20: "On the contrary: 'If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him somethign to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."
We should always show love to even those who do not follow the laws of the Lord; for they are the ones that need us the most. Do not turn your back on them; for it would be the same as turning your back on the Lord.

God's Love: Proverbs 15:9: "The Lord detests the way of the wicked but he loves those who pursue righteousness."
All the more reason to strive to do right! ;)

Loving God: Proverbs 8:21: "Bestowing wealth upon those who love me and making their treasuries full."
Aren't His promises so pure and loving. He does not ask for much. So why do we make it so hard?

God's Protection: Psalm 121:7-8: "The Lord will keep you from all harm--he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore."
I can surely testify to this one. He is our protector without a doubt. This brings up a new testimony which I will write in a separate post.

Word of God: Hebrews 4:12: "For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thougths and attitudes of the heart."
Definitely a good reason to obey, don't you think?

Growth in Grace: 1 Thessalonians 4:1: "Finally brothers, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do with more and more."
Show the light of Grace that the Lord shines upon us. Show grace to everyone, not just those that you feel are good enough to receive it.

Eternal Life: 1 John 2:25: "And this is what he promised us--even eternal life."
Yes, the promise of eternal life. We can't even begin to fathom what that is like. We take a look around us and see that beauty that He has provided us here on earth, yet it is to be much greater when we go home to Him! What a beautiful thought that is.

Seeking God: Act: 17:27: "God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us."
We may not be able to hear Him. We may not be able to feel Him. We may not be able to see Him. But He is there every step of the way, never forsaking us; never leaving us to stand on our own. All we have to do is reach out to Him, trust Him, believe in Him, follow Him. And of course it goes back to "ASK." Yes, there's that all important three letter word again. How powerful it is. The Almight, the Alpha and Omega. Three letters, a very small word with so much impact to use to seek the Kingdom, the home of our Heavenly Father.

Saturday, February 7, 2009

Psalms 31

I felt this is an appropriate time to place this Scripture here. If you read the prayer requests and more troubled, you will see why. This comes from the NIV.

Psalm 31
For the director of music. A psalm of David.
1 In you, O LORD, I have taken refuge;
let me never be put to shame;
deliver me in your righteousness.

2 Turn your ear to me,
come quickly to my rescue;
be my rock of refuge,
a strong fortress to save me.

3 Since you are my rock and my fortress,
for the sake of your name lead and guide me.

4 Free me from the trap that is set for me,
for you are my refuge.

5 Into your hands I commit my spirit;
redeem me, O LORD, the God of truth.

6 I hate those who cling to worthless idols;
I trust in the LORD.

7 I will be glad and rejoice in your love,
for you saw my affliction
and knew the anguish of my soul.

8 You have not handed me over to the enemy
but have set my feet in a spacious place.

9 Be merciful to me, O LORD, for I am in distress;
my eyes grow weak with sorrow,
my soul and my body with grief.

10 My life is consumed by anguish
and my years by groaning;
my strength fails because of my affliction,
and my bones grow weak.

11 Because of all my enemies,
I am the utter contempt of my neighbors;
I am a dread to my friends—
those who see me on the street flee from me.

12 I am forgotten by them as though I were dead;
I have become like broken pottery.

13 For I hear the slander of many;
there is terror on every side;
they conspire against me
and plot to take my life.

14 But I trust in you, O LORD;
I say, "You are my God."

15 My times are in your hands;
deliver me from my enemies
and from those who pursue me.

16 Let your face shine on your servant;
save me in your unfailing love.

17 Let me not be put to shame, O LORD,
for I have cried out to you;
but let the wicked be put to shame
and lie silent in the grave.

18 Let their lying lips be silenced,
for with pride and contempt
they speak arrogantly against the righteous.

19 How great is your goodness,
which you have stored up for those who fear you,
which you bestow in the sight of men
on those who take refuge in you.

20 In the shelter of your presence you hide them
from the intrigues of men;
in your dwelling you keep them safe
from accusing tongues.

21 Praise be to the LORD,
for he showed his wonderful love to me
when I was in a besieged city.

22 In my alarm I said,
"I am cut off from your sight!"
Yet you heard my cry for mercy
when I called to you for help.

23 Love the LORD, all his saints!
The LORD preserves the faithful,
but the proud he pays back in full.

24 Be strong and take heart,
all you who hope in the LORD.

God's Protection

One of Sunday's Promises is God's Protection, which brought me to a testimony of His great protection. Of course I could list many a time, but this one in particular, he was definintely looking out for us.


Our daughter was about three at this time. It was when they were still allowed to ride in the front of the car. I had a layaway bill that was due this particular day. It was winter time and we had a little Chevette. I decided to head into town from the base to pay the bill. The weather didn't seem that bad. This is in N.D. by the way, where winters can get pretty ugly. So our daughter and I set off into town which was 30 miles away.


The roads were clear. I ended up behind a semi that was going slow and decided to pass him, this is on the freeway. As I got around him, I noticed it was snowing. It was like a wall. As I get halfway past him, I hit some black ice. Of course anyone that has ever driven a Chevette knows htere isn't much weight to them.


I lost control of the vehicle and spun out of control. I first headed for unerneat the trailer, then managed to head back away and headed for the ditch where a culvert was located. Then headed back towards the semi cab, then back towards the ditch, then we ended up ahead of the semi; done a full 180 degree spin and came to a stop in the semis lane facing him. There is no way he could have stopped in time.


Somehow I managed to turn the car around facing the right direction and took off. We made it into town and stopped at a friends house, but they weren't home. Talk abut shook up. I was so thankful thought that we were not hurt. Now you can't tell me that He wasn't looking out for us. I probably would not have been as shook up had I not had our daughter with us. But knowing I could have lost her, left me a bundle of nerves, shaking, and bawling my eyes out. Needless to say, we went and paid the bill, stopped to get a bite just outside of town to head back to base and call hubby to cry on his shoulder. He was my rock that day. He did chew me out though and asked what ever possessed me to head into town when we had blizzard warinings out. I didn't know that. I just didn't want a late bill.


It took a long time to feel secure on snowy, icy roads after that. In fact that was back in 1986. This is the first year I have finally felt okay driving in nasty weather. But then I've come into the Lord too. I love how He works in our lives. How He keeps us safe. It wasn't our time then. We had a lot of growing to do in Him. He wasn't ready for us to go home. Thank You dear Lord!

God's Promises: Saturday

Charity; Hospitality; Brotherly Love; Poverty; Self Denial; Humility; Work; Help in Troubles; Righteousness; and Repentance. Taken from the NIV.
Charity: Luke 12:33: "Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys."
We always recycle clothes outgrown, not wore, in good shape, along with household items that never get used. Why throw them out when they are in good shape. Why sit all day for a garage sale, when you can give your things to those in need?
Hospitality: Acts 20:35: "In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive."
I think we must all admit, it is a good feeling when we give. I would much rather give than receive. I love to give to others, whether it be money, time, a helping hand, to go the extra mile, give household and clothing items, etc. Having a giving heart is so uplifting, especially when we can do it without expecting anything in return.
Brotherly Love: 1 John 2:10: "Whoever loves his brother lives in the light, and there is nothing in him to make him stumble."
Love your brothers and sisters as you would want them to love you.
Poverty: Jeremiah 20:13: "Sing to the Lord! Give Praise to the Lord! He rescues the life of the needy from the hands of the wicked."
How wonderful is that! He WILL rescue us. Believe, believe, believe!
Self Denial: Titus 2:11-12: "For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. 12 It teaches us to say 'No' to ungodliness and worldly passions and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age."
Deny oursleves of the worldly and ways and ways of the flesh to live a good life. It can be hard at times in the beginning, but the closer we come to Him, the easier it is to follow Him. Lean in closer, focus on Jesus, move forward towards Him. Don't look back, don't doubt. Denying onself of something we should not have or do is a small sacrifice compared to what God and Jesus' sacricfices were, wouldn't you say?
Humility: Isaiah 57:15: "For this is what the high and lofty One says--he who lives forever, whose name is holy: 'I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite."
He is always there no matter the situation to guide us, lead us, or what ever the case may be when we humble ourselves and listen to His guidance.
Work: 2 Chronicles 31:21: "In everything that he undertook in the service of God's temple and in obedience to the law and the commands, he sought his God and worked wholeheartedly, and so he prospered."
What greatness we receive when we are obedient, humbled, and serve by His name!Help in Troubles: Psalm 37:24: "Though he stumbles, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand."
Through trials and tribulations, He is always there to catch us. He is always there to pick us back up. All we have to do is believe and trust in Him.
Righteousness: Proverbs 13:21: "Misfortune pursues the sinner, but prosperity is the reward of the righteous."
Repentance: Psalm 147:3: "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."

Friday, February 6, 2009

A Must Read

Oh, you must all go over to Sherri's blog "Be About Your Fathers Business" and read her posts. What uplifting posts they are. Especially in times when many are feeling weak and abandoned. Draw strength from one another. Learn from one another. He gave us all gifts. He gave her a gift of wisdom in the Word! God Bless!

Strength Will Rise

Okay, this is fairly new for me, but I've all of a sudden felt strengthening. I am gaining so much strength right now as I hear of more and more people being drug down.

I can feel Him moving. I am believing in Healing! I am believing in strength being renewed in many! I am believing that God is hearing our cries and is moving quickly now! Stand everyone! Stand! Worship Him now! Sing out to the Lord. Shout out to the Lord! Stand and Worship! Sing out praises to Him now! He is healing! He is strengthening! He is sending His angels to block the enemy. Listen for Him. He is here. He is working! Reach out to Him!

Wow! This is beautiful. I'm really run down from being sick and was going to head to bed, but just new I wasn't suppose to, to stay on here. So instead of listening to my dear hubbies pleas for me to go to bed and get off the computer for awhile, I obeyed the Lord. Thank You Father! Wow! I feel so...I don't know how to explain it, but I'm excited! I'm believing in renewal of souls, saving of souls, strengthening being renewed in the Lord. Oh Almighty God, You are so gracious, pure and loving. Thank You Daddy! I love You so.

We will wait upon the Lord, we will wait upon the Lord.
Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord, We will wait upon the Lord.
Our God, You reign forever.
Our Hope, Our strong deliverer.

You are the everlasting God.
The everlasting God.
You do not faint, You won't grow weary.
Your the defender of the earth.
You comfort those in need.
You lift us up on wings like eagles.

Praise the Lord Almighty!

More People Struggling

I just came across another family struggling, struggling very hard. Valerie Lynn at Simply 4 God, you can find her link on my side bar--sorry, forgot to copy her link--and read and encourage her.
Valerie, here is a prayer for you and any others that are struggling.

Oh Father, our Father of strength, El Shaddai, thank You for all your blessings, for all your prayers you continue to answer. For your faithfulness to your children. You never leave us even through hard times. Thank You for always being with us. Thank You Jesus for Your great sacrifice, for by Your blood we are saved. What can wash away our sins, nothing but the blood of Jesus. Yes, sweet Jesus, You sacrificed Your life for us, You spilled Your blood for us. We are forever greatful. We humble ourselves before You Father. For we are not worthy of You. We are nothing without You. Thank You most glorious Daddy!

El Elyon, we need You, we need You now in our times of trials, in our times of troubles, in our times of unrest. We know You have Your plans for us. You use trials and tribulations to draw us nearer. Please Jehovah Jireh, bring heaven down to earth. Bring peace upon your children who are crying out to you. See our tears great Jehovah Rophe, and heal us. Make us strong again. Help us to take a stand against the enemy that is scared and striking harder and harder during our trials. Help us to beat the enemy down. Please Daddy, help us keep our armor of You on and to fight, to be another David.

Jehovah Shalom, bring peace among Your children. Fill us with the Holy Spirit. Let us hear Your sweet voice, let us feel Your presence. Remind those that are becoming weaker and weaker that You are there, that You have not left them. Daddy, you said when You have but 99 of 100 that you would go look for that one stray and carry him back to Your flock. You are the Almighty the Loving God of all. Please Jehovah Rophe, bring healing upon your great nation! Let Valerie Lynn and her family feel Your healing hands right now Father, right now!!! In Jesus Name I pray.

Let all those that are straying be led back to You Daddy. For we are Your children. We hunger for You Daddy. We thirst for Your leadership. We desire to be Christ like. Please Daddy, hear us asking, see us seeking, hear us knocking. We are knocking loud. And now we shall remain silent and listen for your sweet voice and your direction. Thank you Sweet Father, for listening, for leading, for guiding, for strength, for being patient with my long plea, as You already know our needs. Thank You Father, Thank You Jesus. In Jesus Holy Name I pray, Amen.

After reading this prayer, please take a moment to sit in silence and wait upon Him. Together we are stronger than one. Together, in unity with God we shall over come. For there is nothing He can't handle. There is nothing that He can't do. We MUST hold onto Faith. We MUST believe in our Heavenly Father, for we are nothing without Him. We can not do it on our own. Gather your strength. Think positively. The more we allow negative thoughts, the less strength we have. Stand firm! Focus straight ahead on Jesus! Take that leap of faith and step out of the boat, always focusing on Jesus. Yes, we can fight back the enemy no matter how weak we feel. WE CAN DO THIS!!!

May God pour His blessings upon you abundantly. May you feel the ripple affect of His love. Remember to keep P.U.S.H.ing (Pray Until Something Happens)! God Bless You All