God is So Faithful

It seems that this is the word that keeps coming to me lately.  So I finally looked it up in the 'ole dictionary.

Webster defines it as:

faith·ful

adjective

1.

strict or thorough in the performance of duty: a faithful worker.

2.

true to one's word, promises, vows, etc.

3.

steady in allegiance or affection; loyal; constant: faithful friends.

4.

reliable, trusted, or believed.

5.

adhering or true to fact, a standard, or an original; accurate: a faithful account; a faithful copy.

I have found that God is faithful in all things.  In His timing.

He is thorough is all He does.

He is true to His Word, and keeps His primises.

He is steady in His allegianc and His affection towards us.  He is loyal, constant.

He is reliable, He can be trusted and we Can believe in Him.

He is accurate and true to fact.

I have found him to MORE than enough. 

Thank you God for your faithfulness to me!

Me, Myself and Lies

I am still recovering from surgery and just sitting around the house,  We are on week three now going on week four starting tomorrow.

I have had this book on my shelf for who knows how long. But today as I was scanning the shelves for something to read or do...it jump off the shelf.  Not sure if it is because it is a nice red color, the title or if it was the words that literally jumped of the pages at me as I started to read.

The title of the book is "Me, Myself and Lies" ...subtitle..."Thought Closet Make-over"...
written by Jennifer Rothschild. 

It is about our "thought life" and what we tell ourselves and how we respond.

As I opened the book and began to read...here is what i saw...

What is in your thought closet? 
Words: Spoken or Unspoken have power.
God used words to create. He "spoke" things into being.
Our words have influence.  God's words have power.
Our words don't create or destroy, but they do promote life as they build up or death as they tear down.
Don't asume that only spoken words bring life or death. The unspoken or silent words we speak to ourselves are just as important.

Matthew 12:34 says "From the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh."

Your heart and mind are like containers or treasure chests.  They are full of words many of which you have spoken to yourself over the years.  We use all sorts of words to express who we are.  These words in our treasure chest (containers) consist of roles, personality traits, opinions, emotions, physical traits and even spiritual conditions.

If you could think of your heart and mind as a treasure chest full of words-- what would you find there?  Most of them begin with "I am".  I am wife, mother, friend, secure, insecure, happy, sad, depressed, bored...etc

The words that are in our hearts and minds are the words we use to describe ourselves.  Are you overflowing with words of truth, kindness, and hope?  Or does your treasure chest need some major editing?

The enemy of your soul would love to stifle you with self-condemnation, lies and ill-fitting words so your thoughts become a jumbled mess that controls you.

As you go through the rest of the day, think about what you are thinking.

Is it positive and uplifitng or is it negative and bringing you down?

Think positive...Look up... and start with one thought at a time and change it.

God made you and He love you. He will help you clean up those thought closets.

I have found that at different times in our lives and during the different seasons we find ourselves, we have a different group of words we use. Sometime we are positive in our thoughts and sometimes we are negative. When we find ourself being negative in our thoughts that is when we are to take those thoughts captive and turn them into positive ones.

God is Good All The Time!

Today is Day 9 of Post-Surgery for me. I had some major surgery on the 26th of July.  I spent the first three days in the hospital and the past 6 at home.  The surgery requires a minimum of 4--6 weeks of recovery.  Then return to your normal schedule S-L-O-W-L-Y....   So I have taken the month of August off from work. 

Today as I continue my  r-e-c-o-v-e-r-y.  The daily routine of sleep, eat, walk (only a little bit), sleep, eat, laze around, eat, walk, lay around some more...you get the idea. 

Well, I was feeling a little weary of all of it.  So I picked up a daily devotional book....

Today's devotion was just for me.

HOLD MY HAND, and walk joyously through the day. Together we will savor the pleasures and endure the difficulties it may bring.  Be on the look-out for everything I have prepared for you:  stunning scenery, bracing winds of adventure, cozy nooks for resting when you are weary and so much more.  I am your Guide, as well as your constant Companion.  I know every step of your journey that is ahead of you, all the way to Heaven.

You don't have to choose between staying close to me and staying on course.  Since I am the Way, staying close to Me IS staying on course.  As you focus your thoughts on me and all I have provided for you, I will guide you carefully along today's journey.

Don't worry about what is around the next bend. Just concentrate on enjoying My Presence and staying in step with Me.

WOW!  As I recover slowly (joyously) I will take the time to continually be thankful for all He has provided for me.   My wonderful "Knight" that is taking such great care of me, A/C, books, beautiful scenery (as I walk), food, cozy nooks for that much needed rest, cozy pajamas for these lazy days, and so much more that I couldnt begin to list.

Love to all of you my blogger friends.

God is good all the time. He knows just what we need when we need it!!!

Safe and Secure

Those are words that keep coming to me as I think about the past, present and future.
One of my favorite saying or quotes is "God is Good All the Time".  Yes, He is.  Even though sometimes (in the moment or the season that we may be in) we may not feel it or believe it. 
But when we look back we can see that He was in control all along.
Back to the title of ths post.  Next week I will be having some surgery.  I am trying my best not to think about it.  But when I do I do not feel apprehesive or nervous for I know that with God I will be SAFE AND SECURE in His arms.  Surrounded by His love. Under His protection.
For it is all within His timing.  For the past year I have been having alot of unexplained pain, that just would not subside.  After many tests and much testing of my patience finally we were able to figure out what was going on.
It has taken many weeks to finally get everything scheduled for next week.
But during all of this He has kept me safe.  He has kept me feeling secure.
With Him all things are possible and they are within His time-frame and not ours.
If I have not learned anything else through this process I have learned to trust in Him and what He thinks is best and when He thinks is best.

p.s. if you read this please take a moment and whisper a prayer for me.

It's the Little Things

IT'S WHAT YOU SCATTER

I was at the corner grocery store buying some early potatoes... I noticed a small boy, delicate of bone and feature, ragged but clean, hungrily appraising a basket of freshly picked green peas.

I paid for my potatoes but was also drawn to the display of fresh green peas. I am a pushover for creamed peas and new potatoes. Pondering the peas, I couldn't help overhearing the conversation between Mr. Miller (the store owner) and the ragged boy next to me. 'Hello Barry, how are you today?''H'lo, Mr. Miller. Fine, thank ya. Jus' admirin' them peas. They sure look good.''They are good, Barry. How's your Ma?''Fine. Gittin' stronger alla' time. 'Good. Anything I can help you with?' 'No, Sir. Jus' admirin' them peas.' 'Would you like to take some home?' asked Mr. Miller. 'No, Sir. Got nuthin' to pay for 'em with.'

'Well, what have you to trade me for some of those peas?'

'All I got's my prize marble here.' 'Is that right? Let me see it', said Miller.'Here 'tis. She's a dandy.' 'I can see that. Hmm mmm, only thing is this one is blue and I sort of go for red. Do you have a red one like this at home?' the store owner asked. 'Not zackley but almost.'

'Tell you what. Take this sack of peas home with you and next trip this way let me look at that red marble'. Mr. Miller told the boy.

'Sure will. Thanks Mr. Miller. 'Mrs. Miller, who had been standing nearby, came over to help me.

With a smile she said, 'There are two other boys like him in our community, all three are in very poor circumstances. Jim just loves to bargain with them for peas, apples, tomatoes, or whatever. When they come back with their red marbles, and they always do, he decides he doesn't like red after all and he sends them home with a bag of produce for a green marble or an orange one, when they come on their next trip to the store.' I left the store smiling to myself, impressed with this man. A short time later I moved to Colorado , but I never forgot the story of this man, the boys, and their bartering for marbles. Several years went by, each more rapid than the previous one. Just recently I had occasion to visit some old friends in that Idaho community and while I was there learned that Mr. Miller had died. They were having his visitation that evening and knowing my friends wanted to go, I agreed to accompany them. Upon arrival at the mortuary we fell into line to meet the relatives of the deceased and to offer whatever words of comfort we could.Ahead of us in line were three young men. One was in an army uniform and the other two wore nice haircuts, dark suits and white shirts...all very professional looking. They approached Mrs. Miller, standing composed and smiling by her husband's casket. Each of the young men hugged her, kissed her on the cheek, spoke briefly with her and moved on to the casket. Her misty light blue eyes followed them as, one by one; each young man stopped briefly and placed his own warm hand over the cold pale hand in the casket. Each left the mortuary awkwardly, wiping his eyes. Our turn came to meet Mrs. Miller. I told her who I was and reminded her of the story from those many years ago and what she had told me about her husband's bartering for marbles. With her eyes glistening, she took my hand and led me to the casket.

'Those three young men who just left were the boys I told you about.

They just told me how they appreciated the things Jim 'traded' them. Now, at last, when Jim could not change his mind about color or size....they came to pay their debt.' 'We've never had a great deal of the wealth of this world,' she confided, 'but right now, Jim would consider himself the richest man in Idaho ..'With loving gentleness she lifted the lifeless fingers of her deceased husband. Resting underneath were three exquisitely shined red marbles.

The Moral:
We will not be remembered by our words, but by our kind deeds. Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath. Today I wish you a day of ordinary miracles ~ A fresh pot of coffee you didn't make yourself...An unexpected phone call from an old friend.... Green stoplights on your way to work....The fastest line at the grocery store....A good sing-along song on the radio...Your keys found right where you left them.

Share this to the people you'll never forget.. I just did...

If you don't share it to anyone, it means you are in way too much of a hurry to even notice the ordinary miracles when they occur.

IT'S NOT WHAT YOU GATHER, BUT WHAT YOU SCATTER THAT TELLS WHAT KIND OF LIFE YOU HAVE LIVED!

The Beauty of a Woman

The beauty of a woman
isn't in the clothes she wears,
The figure that she carries,
or the way she combs her hair.

The beauty of a woman
must be seen from in her eyes;
Because that's the doorway to her heart,
the place where love resides.

The beauty of a woman
isn't in a facial mole;
But true beauty in a woman,
is reflected by her soul.

It's the caring that she cares to give,
the passion that she shows;
And the beauty of a woman
with passing years only grows.

Trust in the Lord

This is the devotion I read today in a book called "Jesus Calling" by Sarah Young

Trust Me, and do not be afraid. Many things feel out of your control. Your routines are not running as smoothly as you would like. You tend to feel more secure when things are predictable. Let me lead you to the rock that is higher than your circumstances. Take refuge in the shelter of my wings, where you will be absolutely secure.

When you are shaken out of your comfortable routines, grip My hand tightly and look for growth opportunities. Instead of bemoaning and complaining about the loss of your comfort, accept the challenge of something new. I lead you on from glory to glory, making you fit for My kingdom.

Say yes to the ways I work in your life. Trust me and do not be afraid.

Isaiah 12:2 2 (New Living Translation) See, God has come to save me. I will trust in him and not be afraid. The Lord God is my strength and my song; he has given me victory.”
~~~~

THE CUP THAT OVERFLOWS

Each of us is a vessel, a container --in other words, a cup.

Life teaches us that what any person has to contribute, what we can give away to others, is the overflow from his or her cup.

The challenge each of us faces in this life is to fill our cup “full”-to-overflowing.

This is done through daily renewal of our spiritual life. We can renew our spirit in many different ways such as: bible reading, praying, devotions, praise and worship and many more.

I cannot serve others (--share my "overflow") when my own cup is low or drained.

So that I may be a contributing person to my family and friends and community, I must make the effort to continually fill my cup.

Prayer: Lord help me today and everyday to continually fill my cup so that I may be a blessing to those around me. Help me to keep my cup full so that I will have something to offer when needed. Help me to NOT let my cup go empty... Amen.

We live in such a needy world. People are hurting, struggling, looking and just waiting. Sometimes just an encouraging word can make the difference in someone else’s life. Do not assume that just because they are wearing a big smile on their face that everything is o.k. Sometime behind that smile is a hurting person just looking for that encouragement, that hug, that love.

````

Enjoy!

Don't Scratch That Itch

"Don't Scratch That Itch"
by Gwen Smith

"When tempted, no one should say, ‘God is tempting me.' For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed" (James 1:13-14, NIV).

I once woke up with a spider bite that was the size of a quarter. It may as well have been the size of North Carolina for as much as it itched! I was half-tempted to scratch off my arm. That nasty bite was just begging to be scratched. However, I have learned a thing or two in my thirty-something years, and one thing I know for sure: it is best not to scratch this type of itch.

It would be like opening a bag of chips with the naive intention of eating only one (yeah, right!) I knew that if I started scratching my bug bite, it would be nearly impossible to stop. I would regret having ever started.

Super-itchy bug bites are a lot like temptations. Temptations are itchy! The call on us with urgent voices that scream, "Scratch me! Scratch me!" Yet, in all reality, a little scratch will not satisfy temptation's itch at all … it will just make matters worse.

When we scratch the itch of temptation, the itch does not diminish. To the contrary, it increases.
What do you need to run from today? Have you determined in your heart to honor God in everything? Temptation comes in all shapes and sizes. It might be calling your name from your pantry - or from your computer - or from a bottle - or from another cubicle in your office. What temptations do you face today? Name them and run the other way! Don't scratch that itch! Determine in your heart that you will choose the path that brings honor to God, and call on Him for strength.

I realize that dealing with temptation is not easy. When that nasty spider bit my arm, I struggled not to scratch the bite. I had to re-direct my thinking to persevere through the temptation. When we come face to face with temptations, God's strength is always available to us. We need God's strength. Ours will fail us. Friend, when we resist temptation, we get to experience the peace and protection of God, our faith is mobilized and the muscles of our character are strengthened.

Let's Pray
Dear Lord, I need You so much. I constantly find myself being dragged away and enticed by temptation. Please give me strength to run the other way, and give me the wisdom to run to Your arms. I really want to be a woman of godly character. Help me be that woman!

In Jesus' Name,
Amen.

p.s. Though our sovereign God allows trials to enter our lives, He does not ever tempt us. (James 1) Tuck that truth in your heart today, and the next time you experience a temptation - great or small - recognize that the enemy is behind the allure. Then tell him to get behind you and pray that Jesus will re-direct your thinking.

God's love is perfect. He has seen our biggest failures, our greatest places of shame and hurt - and yet, He beckons us to His love, forgiveness, healing, and grace. He has a plan for each life that is far beyond the shattered matters with which we deal. Every step of transformation begins with our surrender to the heart of God.

An Answered Prayer

I just wanted to take a few minutes to update everyone that has been praying for me and following what has been going on with me.

For the past 20 years I have worked at the same place for the same person. As an office manager for a small individually-owned business. I love my job. I love what I do. However, it is an extra-curricular type business (Taxidermy). Which means it is more of a pleasure than a necessity for people. Last August (2010) business began to slow down considerably and we had to cut hours. Everyone's hours including mine. Since August I have been looking for a new job. Either a full-time job with equal hours and pay, or for a part-time job to compensate for the hours I would be losing. Nothing seemed to work out for several weeks ... weeks that turned into months...

I looked, I applied, I looked, and applied some more.. with no success.

Then one day, while sitting in my car (yes, feeeling sorry for myself). I was reminded of the scripture Psalm 37:4 that says... "Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the deisres of your heart. I realized that even though I had friends praying with me and for me...I myself had neglected to ask God for "specifically" what I wanted (desired). So, I prayed that God would open a door and provide something for me.

Over the next couple of weeks I went on several interviews, I didnt really feel impressed that any of these were for me ... BUT I didnt want to be too picky or miss what God may have for me... so I waited patiently...but nothing worked out. But I held fast to the promises of God.

Then the week of January 10th-14th--on Wed. the12th--I went on an interview (that lasted about 10 minutes), I left there thinking... hum...nice guy, nice possibility. But strange interview...so short...

Later while I was at work (at my regular job), the phone rings and they (the place I interviewed) was calling for an employee reference. (No, I didn't give my own reference, I let the boss). Then about a half an hour later they called me on my cell phone and offered me the job. I started there on the following Wednesday the 19th of January.

God is faithful!!!

Let me say that again,

God is faithful... He didn't just give me a job...He gave me OVER and ABOVE what I had asked.

I am so pleased with the new part-time job He has given me. They are very nice people to work for and with. Plus, I can still wear the same casual clothing I am use to...AND it is only about 5 minutes from my other job. GOD IS SO GOOD!!!!

Thank you God for your blessings on me. I am so grateful. You "God" are my provider.


Let me just say, God's timing is perfect.....

Blessings to all of you... thank you for praying with me.

If you desire something, why not ask your Heavenly Father...He is more than able.....

~~~~~
Enjoy

Emergency Bible Numbers

Sorry this is such a long post. But it is a great devotion. And GREAT scriptures to remember.
Please take the time to read...
At least pick one or two topics....
You will leave encouraged...

EMERGENCY BIBLE NUMBERS

- When you are sad, call on John 14 : 1-4 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.”

- When you don’t feel loved, call on Romans 8:38-39 Yes, I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor ruling spirits, nothing now, nothing in the future, no powers, nothing above us, nothing below us, nor anything else in the whole world will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

- When you have sinned, call on 1 John 1:8-9 If we say we have no sin, we are fooling ourselves, and the truth is not in us.9 But if we confess our sins, he will forgive our sins, because we can trust God to do what is right. He will cleanse us from all the wrongs we have done.

- When you are facing danger, call on Psalm 91 Those who go to God Most High for safety will be protected by the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, "You are my place of safety and protection. You are my God and I trust you." God will save you from hidden traps and from deadly diseases. He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you can hide. His truth will be your shield and protection. You will not fear any danger by night or an arrow during the day. You will not be afraid of diseases that come in the dark or sickness that strikes at noon. At your side one thousand people may die or even ten thousand right beside you, but you will not be hurt. You will only watch and see the wicked punished. The Lord is your protection; you have made God Most High your place of safety. Nothing bad will happen to you; no disaster will come to your home. He has put his angels in charge of you to watch over you wherever you go. They will catch you in their hands so that you will not hit your foot on a rock. You will walk on lions and cobras; you will step on strong lions and snakes. The Lord says, "Whoever loves me, I will save. I will protect those who know me. They will call to me, and I will answer them. I will be with them in trouble; I will rescue them and honor them. I will give them a long, full life,

- When people have failed you, call on Psalm 27:1-3 The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble? When evil people come to devour me, when my enemies and foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though a mighty army surrounds me, my heart will not be afraid. Even if I am attacked, I will remain confident.

- When God feel far from you, call on Psalm 139 :1-6 LORD, you have examined me and know all about me. You know when I sit down and when I get up. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know where I go and where I lie down. You know everything I do. LORD, even before I say a word, you already know it. You are all around me—in front and in back—and have put your hand on me. Your knowledge is amazing to me; it is more than I can understand.

- When your faith needs encouraging, call on Hebrews 11 :1-2 Faith means being sure of the things we hope for and knowing that something is real even if we do not see it. Faith is the reason we remember great people who lived in the past. It is by faith we understand that the whole world was made by God's command so what we see was made by something that cannot be seen.

- When you are scared, call on Psalm 23 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

- When you are worried, call on Matthew 6:25-34 “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? “And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith? “So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God[a] above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.

- When you are hurt, call on Colossians 3:12-17 God has chosen you and made you his holy people. He loves you. So you should always clothe yourselves with mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other, and forgive each other. If someone does wrong to you, forgive that person because the Lord forgave you. Even more than all this, clothe yourself in love. Love is what holds you all together in perfect unity. Let the peace that Christ gives control your thinking, because you were all called together in one body to have peace. Always be thankful. Let the teaching of Christ live in you richly. Use all wisdom to teach and instruct each other by singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Everything you do or say should be done to obey Jesus your Lord. And in all you do, give thanks to God the Father through Jesus.

- When you feel no one is on your side, call on Romans 8:31-39 What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

- When you are seeking rest, call on Matthew 11:25-30 At that time Jesus prayed this prayer: “O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, thank you for hiding these things from those who think themselves wise and clever, and for revealing them to the childlike. Yes, Father, it pleased you to do it this way! “My Father has entrusted everything to me. No one truly knows the Son except the Father, and no one truly knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.” Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”

- When you are suffering, call on Romans 8:18-21 The sufferings we have now are nothing compared to the great glory that will be shown to us. Everything God made is waiting with excitement for God to show his children's glory completely. Everything God made was changed to become useless, not by its own wish but because God wanted it and because all along there was this hope: that everything God made would be set free from ruin to have the freedom and glory that belong to God's children.

- When you feel you’re failing, call on Psalm 121 I look up to the mountains—does my help come from there? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth! He will not let you stumble; the one who watches over you will not slumber. Indeed, he who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleeps. The Lord himself watches over you! The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade. The sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon at night. The Lord keeps you from all harm and watches over your life. The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.

- When you pray, call on Matthew 6:9-13 Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.

- When you are in need, call on Philippians 4:19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.

- When you are losing hope, call on 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father encourage you and strengthen you in every good thing you do and say. God loved us, and through his grace he gave us a good hope and encouragement that continues forever.

- When you are seeking peace, call on John 14:27 I leave you peace; my peace I give you. I do not give it to you as the world does. So don't let your hearts be troubled or afraid.

- When you want to live a happy life, call on Colossians 3:12-17 God has chosen you and made you his holy people. He loves you. So you should always clothe yourselves with mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other, and forgive each other. If someone does wrong to you, forgive that person because the Lord forgave you. Even more than all this, clothe yourself in love. Love is what holds you all together in perfect unity. Let the peace that Christ gives control your thinking, because you were all called together in one body to have peace. Always be thankful. Let the teaching of Christ live in you richly. Use all wisdom to teach and instruct each other by singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Everything you do or say should be done to obey Jesus your Lord. And in all you do, give thanks to God the Father through Jesus.

- When you don’t understand what God is doing, call on Isaiah 55:8-9 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.

- When you want to get along with others, call on Romans 12:9-21 Your love must be real. Hate what is evil, and hold on to what is good. Love each other like brothers and sisters. Give each other more honor than you want for yourselves. Do not be lazy but work hard, serving the Lord with all your heart. Be joyful because you have hope. Be patient when trouble comes, and pray at all times. Share with God's people who need help. Bring strangers in need into your homes. Wish good for those who harm you; wish them well and do not curse them. Be happy with those who are happy, and be sad with those who are sad. Live in peace with each other. Do not be proud, but make friends with those who seem unimportant. Do not think how smart you are. If someone does wrong to you, do not pay him back by doing wrong to him. Try to do what everyone thinks is right. Do your best to live in peace with everyone. My friends, do not try to punish others when they wrong you, but wait for God to punish them with his anger. It is written: "I will punish those who do wrong; I will repay them," says the Lord.
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Enjoy!!!

Being Thankful

Be Appreciative for all your Blessings!!

True blessings are those things in your life that are important--the things that touch your heart and soul.

How does being thankful affect our life? It can be encouraging and uplifting to focus on the things that we are grateful for. It can motivate us to move on...to go forward.

Why is it important for us to be thankful? It keeps us focused on the positives in our life.

Everyone should keep a "Thankful Journal". A place to list the individual things we are thankful for each day. Little things...big things...happy things.


Start your list with little things such as your hot coffee in the morning...or the birds singing...or being able to read your devotion...then move on to the bigger things...your job...your transportation...your home. Then as the day goes on add to the list as you "acknowledge " the blessings you are experiencing. You will be surprised at how the list has grown throughout the day. Journaling could change your whole outlook.

Being thankful will ultimate change our thought process also. Our thoughts will be turned to the gratefulness of our heart and the positive things we have going on. This will keep us from focusing on the negative and the things that bring us down.

Here is a simple statement to start off with... "Thank you Lord for all the blessings and abundance in my life.

BLESSINGS

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Enjoy!!!

Perfume Friendships

Just like perfume comes in different types of bottles ALL different shapes and sizes...
So do friendships.
The heartfelt counsel of a friend is sweet as perfume and incense. Proverbs 27:9 (NLT)

Friends, they come in all shapes and sizes. Some have big hearts. A few deliver the sunshine of laughter. One may offer a shoulder for you to cry on. One may listen while you whine, while another may speak the truth even when it hurts. One girlfriend may bring food when you are sick, still another may offer a prayer of healing.

Friends will compliment you, encourage you, hug you, watch your kids, and send you cards. Some friends may only call once a year just to catch up on life. Whatever type of friends filter through your life, true healthy friendships are a gift from God.

We learn the importance of friendships at an early age. Throughout our lives we long for friendships. Friends enrich our lives. They walk with us through the valleys of despair and rejoice with us on the mountaintops. Friends "do" life with us.

Which of your friends has been with you through thick and thin? Which friend holds you accountable? Which friend encourages you? Which one make you laugh?

Of course, in order to have good friends means we must be a good friend to others. Certain qualitites promote deep and lasting friendships. Honesty and loyalty are the foundation for friendships that can last a lifetime. Patience, kindness and a sense of humor are essential in developing and maintaining an enduring friendship.

Friendship is one of the true riches we can have in this life.

I thank God for all of my friends.

Dear God, Thank you for giving me a variety of friendships to help me walk the road of life. I am especially grateful for the friends who inspire and encourage me. Lord, teach me how to be a better friend. In your name, I pray. Amen!!

Laughter is the Spice of Life

This post is from a devotional book entitled "Laughter is the Spice of Life".

The Title of the Chapter for today's posting is "WHO AM I".

written by Nicole Johnson

After putting her children to bed, a mother changed into old slacks and a droopy blouse, took off her makeup and proceeded to wash her hair. As she heard the children getting more and more rambunctious, her patience grew thin. At last she threw a towel on her head and stormed into their room, putting them back to bed with a stern warning. As she left the room, she heard the three-year-old say in a low trembling voice, "Who was That?"

Somedays I wonder the same thing about myself! Between dress-up evenings, afternoon runs to the grocery store in my sweats, and stay-in-my-pajamas-and-work-mornings, I stay in wardrobe confusion.

From exchanging business cards to rearranging furniture to the tasks we perform each day are no help in determining who we are. We can do anything, but that doesn't mean we want it to define us. Bringing home the bacon, frying it up in the pan, changing a flat on the way home, and starting to feel like I'm a man! But I am WOOOMANNN! No wonder we are confused about who we are...

Who Am I? Have you ever lain awake at night asking this question? I take that back. Most women work too hard to miss sleep by laying awake at night, much less asking questions! So the questions probably come at other times. Who am I? Do you ever feel that you are faking your life? That you are living someone else's life, and your not sure whose? You wonder how you got to this place of disguise.

You want to give yourself to God., but what self are you going to give?

Your work life? What you do does not determine who you are.

Your beauty? What you wear or what your hairstyle or how much makeup you have on isn't necessarily the "real you".

Your relationships? All your roles as wife, mother, and friend are not the sum total of your identity. So what do we give and who are we?

The answer is (D) ALL of the above.

We (women) are like onions. We can't merely peel away all the layers, because they are us, as long as they are true to the core. The onion begins at the core, and each and every layer builds upon the "onion-ness" inside of us. An authentic life and self is one in which the layers on the outsied are merely expressions of the core on the inside.

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Enjoy!!!!

Get Real, Cinderella

This post is an excerpt from one of my devotional books
"Be Still...and let your Nail Polish Dry"

this devotional is written by: Debby Mayne

Get Real, Cinderella
Some days I get out of bed feeling frumpy and ugly. I suspect hormones play a role in that, but seriously, no matter how hard I try, I can't seem to get rid of those ten or twenty pounds that keep me from wearing my favorite jeans.

Where is my fairy godmother? Did someone hijack her on her way to rescue me from thunder thighs, a flabby belly, and saggy boobs? I've watched all the style shows that demonstrate how to hide "problem areas," but what happens if my problem area is from head to toe?

Why do men never worry about body image? My husband can stand in front of a mirror without a shirt and actually come away from it happy. There are days when I avoid mirrors or clean windows, no matter how far out of my way I have to go. For once, I'd like to be able to stand in front of a mirror, look at myself without being critical, and stop worrying about every single imperfection gawking back at me.

The female body is constantly being measured--either favorably or as an example of how not to be--throughout life. We're put on a pedestal, ogled, and discussed as though we're a commodity, which is all wrong. I know that, but I still often feel as if everyone belongs at the royal ball but me. Pick up any woman's magazine and you'll see what I am talking about.

As Christian women, our bodies no longer belong to us. Christ lives in us, so we should respect who we are without all the disturbing worldly messages tearing us down. Being of strong, moral character is much more attractive to believers in Christ than the sexual objects portrayed by Hollywood. No amount of plastic surgery, botox, or collogen can give us inner beauty like the kind that glows from the love of Christ. Deep down we know what is important, and honey, the Cinderella story is nothing compared to the true love of God shown to us through His son, Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Lord, keep me focused on what is pleasing to you. Your love is much deeper than anything portrayed by the media and much more real than any physical attribute shown as "perfect." Remind me to keep it real and to never lose sight of the true beauty of Your love. Amen.
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Enjoy!

The Quilt Holes

Some of you have see this story before.

Over the past few weeks I have received it numerous times from different sources.

So I wanted to Share it with all of you.
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"The Quilt Holes"

As I met my maker at the last judgment, I knelt before Him along with all the other souls.
before each us us lay our lives like the squares of a quilt, in many different piles.

An angel sat before each of us sewing our quilts together right before our eyes; this made the tapestry of our lives. As my angel took each piece of cloth off my pile, I noticed how ragged and empty each of my squares appeared. They were filled with holes. Every square was labeled with a part of my life that had been difficult, the challenges and temptations I had faced everyday. I saw the hardships that I had endured, and those were the largestholes of all.

I glanced around me. Nobody else had such squares. Othan than a tiney hole here and there. The other tapestries were filled with rich color and the bright hues of worldly fortune. As i gazed upon my life I was disheartened.

My angel was sewing the ragged pieces together, threadbare and empty, like she was ninding air.

Finally the time came when each life was to be displayed, held up to the light. The others rose; each in turn, holding up their tapestries. So filled their lives had been. My angel looked upon me and nodded for me to rise.

My gaze dropped to the ground in shame. I hadn't had all the earthly fortunes. I had love and laughter in my life . But there had also been trials of illness and wealth, and false accusations that took from me my world, as I knew it. I had started over many many times. I often struggled with the temptation to quit, only to somehow muster up the strength to pick up and begin again. I spen many nights on my knees in prayer, asking for help and guidance in my life. I had often been held up to ridicule, which I endured painfully, each time offering it up to my Father in hopes that i would not melt within my own skin beneath the judgmental gaze of those who unfairly judged me.

And now, I had to face the truth. My life was what it was, and I had to accept ot for that.

I rose and slowly lifted the combined squares of my life up to the Light.

An awe-filled gasp filled the air. I gazed around at the others who stared at me with wide eyes.

Then, I looked upon the tapestry before me. Light flooded the many holes creating an image, the face of CHrist. The our Lord stood befor me, with warmth and love in His eyes. He said,
"Everytime you gave your life struggles over to Me, it became My life, My hardships, My struggle."

"Each point of the light in your life is when you stepped aside and let Me shine through, until there was more of Me than you."

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God determines who walks into our life...it is up to you who you let walk away, who you let stay and who you refuse to let go.

When there is nothing left but God, then that is when you realize that God is all you need.
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Pray this prayer for your friends...it only takes a few seconds.

Father, bless all my family and friends in whatever it is theat you know they may need this day! And may their life be full of your peace, prosperity and power as she/he seeks to have a closer relationship with You. Amen.
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Enjoy

A Time and Season for Everything

Just like there are seasons of Nature There are also Seasons of Life.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 says

There is a time for everything, a season for every activity under heaven.
A time to be born, and a time to die. A time to plant and a time to harvest.
A time to kill and a time to heal. A time to tear down and a time to rebuild.
A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to dance.
A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones.
A time to embrace and a time to turn away.
A time to search and a time to lose. A time to keep and a time to throw away.
A time to tear and a time to mend. A time to be quiet and a time to speak up.
A time to love and a time to hate. A time for war and a time for peace.

verse (9) What do people really get for their hard work? (10)I have thought about this in connection with the various kinds of work God has given people to do. (11) God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end. (12) So I concluded that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to enjoy themselves for as long as they can. (13) And people should eat, drink and enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are gifts from God.

We go through many seasons in our lives. Spiritually sometimes we feel like we are in the Springtime, and other times we feel like we are going through our winter. But whatever season we find ourselves we should remember "God is with us" and God is going to see us through whatever we are going through.
He is our strength, our refuge, our "whatever" we need in whatever season we find ourself.

Blessings to you.
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Enjoy!

Thoughts and Randomness

This picture expresses how I think that my mind must look today.

So many different thoughts going on at the same time. Can hardly focus on just one.
Thoughts ranging from church, christians friendships, family, husband, work, daughters, lunch, work, friends, flowers, weddings, valentines, etc.

You name it it's probably in there somewhere.

Too many time we forget to take our thoughts captive (as the word tells us to do). Take captive...capture them. One by one.

Concentrate on them.
Enjoy them...that is the good ones and the positive ones.
Ponder them...aks yourself "should I act upon this thought or not". Maybe it is something we should do for someone. Something we should say...Maybe it is a simple nudging that we are to follow through on... just sayin' -- think about it!

Dismiss some of them...you know those ones we all have, the evil, unhealthy ones.

Just a random post about the things we think.

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Enjoy!

Random Thoughts and Quotes

Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength; loving someone deeply gives you courage. Lao-Tzu

Romantic love reaches out in little ways, showing attention and admiration. Romantic love remembers what pleases a woman, what excites her, and what surprises her. Its actions whisper: you are the most special person in my life. Charles Stanley

When you love someone, all your saved-up wishes start coming true. Elizabeth Bowen

I don't know what to say, so I'll just say what's in my heart... Baboom, Baboom, Baboom. Mel Brooks

In just two days, tomorrow will be yesterday”

Don't count the days- make the days count.”

I will prepare and some day my chance will come.”

You can become blind by seeing each day as a similar one. Each day is a different one, each day brings a miracle of its own. It's just a matter of paying attention to this miracle.”

Love is not a matter of counting the years ... But making the years count. Michelle Amand

I still find each day too short for all the thoughts I want to think, all the walks I want to take, all the books I want to read, and all the friends I want to see.”

Far away in the sunshine are my highest aspirations. I may not reach them, but I can look up and see their beauty, believe in them, and try to follow where they lead. Louisa May Alcott

It is the trouble that never comes that causes the loss of sleep.Chas. Austin Bates

Don't waste your life in doubts and fears: spend yourself on the work before you, well assured that the right performance of this hour's duties will be the best preparation for the hours or ages that follow it.Ralph Waldo Emerson
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Enjoy!

Beautiful Christian Sister

I know that several of you have seen this before, and have posted it. But I received it again today from a friend and wanted to share it with all of you.

Happy Summer!

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Enjoy!


BEAUTIFUL CHRISTIAN SISTER
By Maya Angelou

'A woman's heart should be so hidden in Christ
That a man should have to seek Him first to find her.'
When I say... 'I am a Christian'
I'm not shouting 'I'm clean living,
' I'm whispering 'I was lost, Now I'm found and forgiven.
' When I say... 'I am a Christian'
I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble and need Christ to be my guide.
When I say... 'I am a Christian'
I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak and need His strength to carry on.
When I say.. 'I am a Christian'
I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed and need God to clean my mess.
When I say... 'I am a Christian'
I'm not claiming to be perfect, My flaws are far too visible, but God believes I am worth it.
When I say.... 'I am a Christian'
I still feel the sting of pain... I have my share of heartaches, so I call upon His name.
When I say... 'I am a Christian'
I'm not holier than thou, I'm just a simple sinner Who received God's good grace, somehow! Pretty is as Pretty does...
But beautiful is just plain beautiful!