Ephesians 4:24 NAS
And put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.
Every year when new years rolls around we sit down to make our new year's resolutions. At least some of us do. We tell ourselves we are going to go on a diet, get fit, that we are tired of being sick and tired all the time.
Maybe you decide this is the year you are going to get organized. You've watched all the shows showing how easy it is to put things in baskets, drawers, and shelves. This is the year you are going to do just that.
The one thing most of us do not even think about is getting our eternal lives right with our Lord Jesus Christ. We go through the motions, going to church, maybe even Sunday school. Making sure our children are in church for all the activities. Then there is the money we give to charities to help those out that are less fortunate than ourselves. We've checked off those boxes.
But have you checked off the box that belongs to your heart? Have you asked Jesus to live in your heart, or have you gone to him and confessed your sins? These two come first, confess your sins, then ask Him to live within you. Then all of the things above will automatically fall into place. You will no longer feel like you have to be in church, that you have to give money to help others. You will do these things because you want to.
Dear Heavenly Father I pray with all my heart you forgive me for my sins and live within me always. Guide me to do Your will throughout my life. Amen.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Friday, December 10, 2010
TRUST
Isaiah 26:4 NAS
Trust in the Lord forever, for in God, the Lord, we have an everlasting Rock.
Today while I was watching the Today show they were showing how F18s land on the air craft carrier George H.W. Bush. They had Amy Robach, a journalist, in the back seat to show her how it was done. They circled the carried and proceeded to bring the plane in and as they touched down the hook grabbed the plane to stop it suddenly. They said it was like a controled car crash going from 180 miles per hour to 0. Then they showed her how it felt when they took off from the carrier, being catapulted into the air.
Each person aboard that carrier had 100% trust in each other to bring the plane in safely. Without that trust there would be mishaps maybe even deaths.
Proverbs 3:26 tells us for the Lord will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being caught. He is telling us to trust in Him and He will take care of us.
To let go of our problems, concerns, and fears. He has us in His hands always and will always be there when we cry out for help. We just need to give everything over to Him to take care of. Trust in God for all things big or small. He is our rock.
Dear Heavenly Father I pray you take all my worries in Your hands. Amen.
Trust in the Lord forever, for in God, the Lord, we have an everlasting Rock.
Today while I was watching the Today show they were showing how F18s land on the air craft carrier George H.W. Bush. They had Amy Robach, a journalist, in the back seat to show her how it was done. They circled the carried and proceeded to bring the plane in and as they touched down the hook grabbed the plane to stop it suddenly. They said it was like a controled car crash going from 180 miles per hour to 0. Then they showed her how it felt when they took off from the carrier, being catapulted into the air.
Each person aboard that carrier had 100% trust in each other to bring the plane in safely. Without that trust there would be mishaps maybe even deaths.
Proverbs 3:26 tells us for the Lord will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being caught. He is telling us to trust in Him and He will take care of us.
To let go of our problems, concerns, and fears. He has us in His hands always and will always be there when we cry out for help. We just need to give everything over to Him to take care of. Trust in God for all things big or small. He is our rock.
Dear Heavenly Father I pray you take all my worries in Your hands. Amen.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
REPRIMAND
Judges 5:5 NAS
The mountains quaked at the presence of the Lord. This Sinai, at the presence of the Lord, the God of Israel.
Raising children can be exasperating sometimes. Because you are the adult, presumably you have wisdom, so you try to guide your child to choose the right path. This does not always work. You've told your child that you've been there, but they don't want to listen.
Perhaps you have a strong willed child that wants to do things their way. They will go out of their way, to do it their way, leaving you feeling helpless. You say black and they say white. They have to be the opposite.
You can only guess how God feels when He sees His children take the wrong path. The book of Judges tells us of disobedient and idolatrous people, how they are defeated time and time again because of their rebellion against God.
God raised up the military to throw off the bondage and restore the nation to worship. But like people now they reverted back to their old sin nature. God finally angered against Israel and said in Judges 2:20 "Because this nation has transgressed My covenant which I commanded their fathers, and has not listened to My voice, I also will no longer drive out before them any of the nations which Joshua left when he died."
Our God is a loving God that wants the best for each one of His children but you cannot continue to turn your back on Him. He is a just God and you will be punished. Just like punishing your children for doing wrong in your eyes. You will take away the car, television, etc. until your child realizes you mean business. So too, is our God.
In the end God wants us to ask for forgiveness, just as you want your child to ask you to forgive them. All in all there are rules to live by. You make the rules in your house as God makes the rules for us to live by. All He wants is to live with His children in harmony and peace.
Dear Father forgive me when I let You down. Amen.
The mountains quaked at the presence of the Lord. This Sinai, at the presence of the Lord, the God of Israel.
Raising children can be exasperating sometimes. Because you are the adult, presumably you have wisdom, so you try to guide your child to choose the right path. This does not always work. You've told your child that you've been there, but they don't want to listen.
Perhaps you have a strong willed child that wants to do things their way. They will go out of their way, to do it their way, leaving you feeling helpless. You say black and they say white. They have to be the opposite.
You can only guess how God feels when He sees His children take the wrong path. The book of Judges tells us of disobedient and idolatrous people, how they are defeated time and time again because of their rebellion against God.
God raised up the military to throw off the bondage and restore the nation to worship. But like people now they reverted back to their old sin nature. God finally angered against Israel and said in Judges 2:20 "Because this nation has transgressed My covenant which I commanded their fathers, and has not listened to My voice, I also will no longer drive out before them any of the nations which Joshua left when he died."
Our God is a loving God that wants the best for each one of His children but you cannot continue to turn your back on Him. He is a just God and you will be punished. Just like punishing your children for doing wrong in your eyes. You will take away the car, television, etc. until your child realizes you mean business. So too, is our God.
In the end God wants us to ask for forgiveness, just as you want your child to ask you to forgive them. All in all there are rules to live by. You make the rules in your house as God makes the rules for us to live by. All He wants is to live with His children in harmony and peace.
Dear Father forgive me when I let You down. Amen.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
SATAN TAKE A HIKE
Matthew 16:23 NAS
Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on God's interests, but man's.
These words are embedded in my mind, especially when I go out shopping. Mind you I love to shop just like any other woman. The bargains, oh my. I can save so much. But when I get home and realize how much money I did spend, I'm remorseful. How am I going to explain those good bargains to my husband?
I'm not alone in this. Every day each one of us is tempted by Satan in one way or another. Whether it's shopping, eating, or doing something that goes beyond our nature. Satan is always there to entice us. "Go ahead, you deserve it, or who's going to know."
Satan tempted Christ in Luke chapter four. Satan told Jesus that all the domain and been handed over to him to do with as he pleased. He painted a beautiful picture for Christ, telling Him if He would hand over all His glory to him, and follow him, all the domain would be His. Satan always has an answer for everything. He can be very convincing. Jesus answered Satan and said. "It is written, You shall worship the Lord your God and serve Him only."
It has been a hard bumpy ride, and I'm still learning, but I think I've finally getting the hang of it. When I am out shopping and hear satan rearing his ugly head I simply tell him. "Satan take a hike. I'll let God guide me. Not you."
With God's help I will continue to seek God's guidance especially when I feel satan trying to sway me.
Gracious Heavenly Father I ask for Your guidance everyday in all I do and say. May You keep satan far from me. Amen.
Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on God's interests, but man's.
These words are embedded in my mind, especially when I go out shopping. Mind you I love to shop just like any other woman. The bargains, oh my. I can save so much. But when I get home and realize how much money I did spend, I'm remorseful. How am I going to explain those good bargains to my husband?
I'm not alone in this. Every day each one of us is tempted by Satan in one way or another. Whether it's shopping, eating, or doing something that goes beyond our nature. Satan is always there to entice us. "Go ahead, you deserve it, or who's going to know."
Satan tempted Christ in Luke chapter four. Satan told Jesus that all the domain and been handed over to him to do with as he pleased. He painted a beautiful picture for Christ, telling Him if He would hand over all His glory to him, and follow him, all the domain would be His. Satan always has an answer for everything. He can be very convincing. Jesus answered Satan and said. "It is written, You shall worship the Lord your God and serve Him only."
It has been a hard bumpy ride, and I'm still learning, but I think I've finally getting the hang of it. When I am out shopping and hear satan rearing his ugly head I simply tell him. "Satan take a hike. I'll let God guide me. Not you."
With God's help I will continue to seek God's guidance especially when I feel satan trying to sway me.
Gracious Heavenly Father I ask for Your guidance everyday in all I do and say. May You keep satan far from me. Amen.
Friday, December 3, 2010
GIFTS
Luke 6:38 NAS
Give and it will be given to you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, they will pour into your lap. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return.
The holiday season is upon us once again. It seems like it comes earlier and earlier each year. We run about buying gifts for everyone we know. No matter how small the gift, it is a gift from the heart. Or is it? Are we buying that gift because we know they will be giving us something and we need to reciprocate? Far too many times we do this begrudgingly, not from our heart.
Sometimes I will look at our check book and wonder where or how I'm going to make a payment, or even go to the grocery store. But God always provides.
My dilemma has occurred because I've gone and done it again and spent more money than I'd anticipated when I helped someone out. I help them out because I want to. When I reflect on my life I'm reminded of how my God has given me more than I could ever imagine having in my lifetime. If He's done this for me He can do it everyone. Then if I have, then I need to share. Remember you cannot out give God!
Dear Heavenly Father thank you for all you have given me. Guide me to give to others that are less fortunate. Amen.
Give and it will be given to you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, they will pour into your lap. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return.
The holiday season is upon us once again. It seems like it comes earlier and earlier each year. We run about buying gifts for everyone we know. No matter how small the gift, it is a gift from the heart. Or is it? Are we buying that gift because we know they will be giving us something and we need to reciprocate? Far too many times we do this begrudgingly, not from our heart.
Sometimes I will look at our check book and wonder where or how I'm going to make a payment, or even go to the grocery store. But God always provides.
My dilemma has occurred because I've gone and done it again and spent more money than I'd anticipated when I helped someone out. I help them out because I want to. When I reflect on my life I'm reminded of how my God has given me more than I could ever imagine having in my lifetime. If He's done this for me He can do it everyone. Then if I have, then I need to share. Remember you cannot out give God!
Dear Heavenly Father thank you for all you have given me. Guide me to give to others that are less fortunate. Amen.
WHERE IS JESUS
Matthew 2:11 NAS
And they came into the house and saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell down and worshiped Him; and opening their treasurers they presented to Him gifts of gold and frankincense and myrrh.
When my two little granddaughters come over for a visit they like to pull out the pop up picture book on Jesus's birth. I point to the manger and tell them that's baby Jesus. I really didn't know if they comprehended what I was trying to tell them until my three year old granddaughter surprised me one one day.
I had been out shopping and my daughter called to ask if I'd pick up something for her. I told her I would and when I dropped it off at her house my granddaughter greeted me at the door. Mommy came to the door and took the package from me and as we stood talking my granddaughter asked. "Where's Jesus?"
My daughter asked her what she said. I told her she was asking where was Jesus. My daughter looked puzzled until I explained to her about the book the girls liked to look at when they came to my house. I turned to my granddaughter and told her Jesus is in my heart just like he's in hers. Her reply was "No He's not."
It was easy to explain to my granddaughter, like it is for so many other people that don't know Jesus as their Savior. I told her again Jesus loves me and lives in my heart. Her mommy told her the same thing. When I left she was still looking a bit puzzled, but hopefully if I keep telling her that she will come to know Jesus for herself.
Her parents have so much going on in their lives, they very rarely go to church, much less take the children to Sunday school. Sunday school simply tells the story of Christ's birth, death, and resurrection. Young and old alike can marvel how God's Son was conceived, lived, died, was buried, and rose again. Christ rose again to give us hope of life everlasting. And how easy it is to have that eternal life with Him. All He asks of us is to confess our sins and ask Him to dwell within us.
Heavenly Father that you for Your son Jesus. Amen.
And they came into the house and saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell down and worshiped Him; and opening their treasurers they presented to Him gifts of gold and frankincense and myrrh.
When my two little granddaughters come over for a visit they like to pull out the pop up picture book on Jesus's birth. I point to the manger and tell them that's baby Jesus. I really didn't know if they comprehended what I was trying to tell them until my three year old granddaughter surprised me one one day.
I had been out shopping and my daughter called to ask if I'd pick up something for her. I told her I would and when I dropped it off at her house my granddaughter greeted me at the door. Mommy came to the door and took the package from me and as we stood talking my granddaughter asked. "Where's Jesus?"
My daughter asked her what she said. I told her she was asking where was Jesus. My daughter looked puzzled until I explained to her about the book the girls liked to look at when they came to my house. I turned to my granddaughter and told her Jesus is in my heart just like he's in hers. Her reply was "No He's not."
It was easy to explain to my granddaughter, like it is for so many other people that don't know Jesus as their Savior. I told her again Jesus loves me and lives in my heart. Her mommy told her the same thing. When I left she was still looking a bit puzzled, but hopefully if I keep telling her that she will come to know Jesus for herself.
Her parents have so much going on in their lives, they very rarely go to church, much less take the children to Sunday school. Sunday school simply tells the story of Christ's birth, death, and resurrection. Young and old alike can marvel how God's Son was conceived, lived, died, was buried, and rose again. Christ rose again to give us hope of life everlasting. And how easy it is to have that eternal life with Him. All He asks of us is to confess our sins and ask Him to dwell within us.
Heavenly Father that you for Your son Jesus. Amen.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
THANKSGIVING
Psalm 26:7 NAS
That I may proclaim with the voice of thanksgiving, and declare all thy wonders.
Our forefathers gathered together to give thanks to God for surving their first year in America. They suffered cold, harsh storms, sickness, Indian attacks, and little food to fill their stomachs. They quickly built houses to shield themselves from the elements and planted what little seeds they had brought with them. Seeds that had not mildewed or been eaten by rodents aboard ship. Yet after their first year they proclaimed their thanksgiving to the Lord for taking care of them.
I'm reminded every day that my Lord is a great God. Psalm 95:2 says it well. Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving. Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalm.
I cannot thank my Savior enough for all He has done in my life. He brought me out of the depths of dispair when I thought I had no where to turn. He held me in His hands and kept me safe when all around me my life was crumbling. He has given me a wonderful husband, beautiful children, good health, a long life, money to meet my needs, and an abundance of friends. My God is a great King above all gods.
Reading the book of Psalm brings me great joy because it is a book of song and praise. I especially like Psalm 100:4 because it says what I feel about my God. Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him; bless His name. I cannot praise Him enough.
Gracious Father thank you for all You've done for me and what You do every day. Thank you. Amen.
That I may proclaim with the voice of thanksgiving, and declare all thy wonders.
Our forefathers gathered together to give thanks to God for surving their first year in America. They suffered cold, harsh storms, sickness, Indian attacks, and little food to fill their stomachs. They quickly built houses to shield themselves from the elements and planted what little seeds they had brought with them. Seeds that had not mildewed or been eaten by rodents aboard ship. Yet after their first year they proclaimed their thanksgiving to the Lord for taking care of them.
I'm reminded every day that my Lord is a great God. Psalm 95:2 says it well. Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving. Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalm.
I cannot thank my Savior enough for all He has done in my life. He brought me out of the depths of dispair when I thought I had no where to turn. He held me in His hands and kept me safe when all around me my life was crumbling. He has given me a wonderful husband, beautiful children, good health, a long life, money to meet my needs, and an abundance of friends. My God is a great King above all gods.
Reading the book of Psalm brings me great joy because it is a book of song and praise. I especially like Psalm 100:4 because it says what I feel about my God. Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him; bless His name. I cannot praise Him enough.
Gracious Father thank you for all You've done for me and what You do every day. Thank you. Amen.
Monday, November 22, 2010
STARS AND THE HEAVENS
Psalm 147:4 NAS
He counts the number of the stars; He gives names to all of them.
On any given night you can step outside,look to the sky, and see the stars shining brightly. That is, if there aren't any clouds. In junior high I had Astronomy, a chance to study the stars and planets. I'd sit outside with my friends and we'd see if we could pick out the Big Dipper, the North Star, Cassiopeia, Pegasus, and Andromeda. I could go on and name all of them but you know what I'm talking about.
Lovers sit and stare at the stars making wishes. Little children sing "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star". Some people let the stars guide their lives as they read their horoscopes daily.
The Bible talks about stars. Revelation 22:16 says "I", Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things 'for the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, the bright morning star." Jesus Christ our Savior is the Bright Morning Star.
Jude 13 tells us "Wild waves of the sea, casting up their own shame like foam, wandering stars, for whom the black darkness has been reserved forever. Jude 5-16 gives us insight into false teachers. He also tells his readers to keep yourself in the love of God.
The Twelve Stars represent the twelve tribes of Israel. Revelation 12:1 "And a great sign appeared in heaven; a woman clothes with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars. Israel, God's chosen people.
The book of Revelation also talks about the number seven. The seven stars, seven lamp stands, seven angels who had seven plagues, and the seven Spirits of God. All warnings from God telling us of the end times. Still giving us time to repent, confess our sins, and accept Christ as our Savior.
After studing the book of Revelation I have a new insight when I look up into the heavens at night. Each star has a new meaning.
Dear Father thank you for Your word and the beautiful stars that shine each night. Your way of telling me "I love you. Here is another gift for you" Amen.
He counts the number of the stars; He gives names to all of them.
On any given night you can step outside,look to the sky, and see the stars shining brightly. That is, if there aren't any clouds. In junior high I had Astronomy, a chance to study the stars and planets. I'd sit outside with my friends and we'd see if we could pick out the Big Dipper, the North Star, Cassiopeia, Pegasus, and Andromeda. I could go on and name all of them but you know what I'm talking about.
Lovers sit and stare at the stars making wishes. Little children sing "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star". Some people let the stars guide their lives as they read their horoscopes daily.
The Bible talks about stars. Revelation 22:16 says "I", Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things 'for the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, the bright morning star." Jesus Christ our Savior is the Bright Morning Star.
Jude 13 tells us "Wild waves of the sea, casting up their own shame like foam, wandering stars, for whom the black darkness has been reserved forever. Jude 5-16 gives us insight into false teachers. He also tells his readers to keep yourself in the love of God.
The Twelve Stars represent the twelve tribes of Israel. Revelation 12:1 "And a great sign appeared in heaven; a woman clothes with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars. Israel, God's chosen people.
The book of Revelation also talks about the number seven. The seven stars, seven lamp stands, seven angels who had seven plagues, and the seven Spirits of God. All warnings from God telling us of the end times. Still giving us time to repent, confess our sins, and accept Christ as our Savior.
After studing the book of Revelation I have a new insight when I look up into the heavens at night. Each star has a new meaning.
Dear Father thank you for Your word and the beautiful stars that shine each night. Your way of telling me "I love you. Here is another gift for you" Amen.
Friday, November 19, 2010
COURAGE
Psalm 138:3 NAS
On the day I called Thou didst answer me; Thou didst make me bold with strength in my soul.
All my life I've tried to avoid conflict. I don't like arguing, and most especially I do not like to fight. I just don't understand why some people like to provoke others into physical altercations. I remember asking my mother when I was young. "Why do people have to be so mean to each other?"
Her answer was always the same. "I don't know."
Too many times I backed down from confronting someone because of a wrong doing. I just knew that person would want to belittle me with words or even physically. I was afraid. Belittling a person with stinging words can be just as harsh as physically attacking you. Broken bones will heal but harsh words can never be retracted and will sting forever.
Our military troops show great courage. They are ready to give their life for others. So you and I can live in a free country, to worship in the church of our choice, go to the schools we select, or vote for the person we feel will lead our great nation. These men and women have courage beyond our understanding.
John 16:33 tells us "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world." Jesus is telling us through Him you can have courage. All you have to do is ask Him to be with you in tough times, when you are being harassed, when you feel persecuted, or feeling anxiety. He will fill you with His presence and give you peace.
Dear Heavenly Father I pray each day You lead and guide me through all my trials. Amen.
On the day I called Thou didst answer me; Thou didst make me bold with strength in my soul.
All my life I've tried to avoid conflict. I don't like arguing, and most especially I do not like to fight. I just don't understand why some people like to provoke others into physical altercations. I remember asking my mother when I was young. "Why do people have to be so mean to each other?"
Her answer was always the same. "I don't know."
Too many times I backed down from confronting someone because of a wrong doing. I just knew that person would want to belittle me with words or even physically. I was afraid. Belittling a person with stinging words can be just as harsh as physically attacking you. Broken bones will heal but harsh words can never be retracted and will sting forever.
Our military troops show great courage. They are ready to give their life for others. So you and I can live in a free country, to worship in the church of our choice, go to the schools we select, or vote for the person we feel will lead our great nation. These men and women have courage beyond our understanding.
John 16:33 tells us "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world." Jesus is telling us through Him you can have courage. All you have to do is ask Him to be with you in tough times, when you are being harassed, when you feel persecuted, or feeling anxiety. He will fill you with His presence and give you peace.
Dear Heavenly Father I pray each day You lead and guide me through all my trials. Amen.
FORGIVENESS
Job 42:10 NAS
And the Lord restored the fortunes of Job when he prayed for his friends, and the Lord increased all that Job had twofold.
I've hear this over and over. "I'll never forgive so and so for what they've done." I thought that myself at one time. I felt hard and bitter towards the other person. How could they have treated me like they did? I thought he loved me.
I was a Christian but had drifted away, living my own life, doing what I wanted to do. Caught up in the ways of the world. After my bitter divorce I sought refuge in my church again. I started going to church services and Sunday school. Learning all over again what God says about forgiving others.
I had sins in my life that I needed forgiveness for. How could I forgive someone else if I still had sin in my life? I finally let go and asked God for forgiveness, to take the bitterness from my heart, and let me forgive my ex-husband. I felt like the weight of the world had been taken off my shoulders.
Now when I hear my children or a friend say they could never forgive someone, I'm the first to to say I had to ask forgiveness first before I could forgive.
Dear Father thank you for forgiving me. Amen.
And the Lord restored the fortunes of Job when he prayed for his friends, and the Lord increased all that Job had twofold.
I've hear this over and over. "I'll never forgive so and so for what they've done." I thought that myself at one time. I felt hard and bitter towards the other person. How could they have treated me like they did? I thought he loved me.
I was a Christian but had drifted away, living my own life, doing what I wanted to do. Caught up in the ways of the world. After my bitter divorce I sought refuge in my church again. I started going to church services and Sunday school. Learning all over again what God says about forgiving others.
I had sins in my life that I needed forgiveness for. How could I forgive someone else if I still had sin in my life? I finally let go and asked God for forgiveness, to take the bitterness from my heart, and let me forgive my ex-husband. I felt like the weight of the world had been taken off my shoulders.
Now when I hear my children or a friend say they could never forgive someone, I'm the first to to say I had to ask forgiveness first before I could forgive.
Dear Father thank you for forgiving me. Amen.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
PROMISES
II Peter 1:4
For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, in order that by them you might become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust.
When our children were small they'd ask to do something, or want to go somewhere, and I'd say later. They would be persistent until I'd said okay, then they'd add. "Promise." Without thinking, I'd say yes. Sound familiar?
Most of the time I knew I couldn't, or wouldn't, keep that promise and when I didn't my children cried. They were broken hearted. They began distrusting me because I didn't keep my promises.
Throughout the Bible God has made promises to us. He promised a Messiah who would deliver us from our sins. He sent Jesus who was crucified and died for each one of us.
God made a promised to Abraham and Abraham waited patiently for God to fulfill it. In Hebrews 6:13-14 it says "For when God made the promise to Abraham, since He could swear by no one greater, He swore by Himself, saying, 'I WILL SURELY BLESS YOU, AND I WILL SURELY MULTIPLY YOU'." And God did bless Abraham.
Hebrews 7:22 says So much the more also Jesus has become the guarantee of a better covenant.
Verse after verse tells us God keeps His promises. Praise the Lord. There is no greater promise made to us than by grace through faith you are saved. I am going to spend eternity with My Lord and Savior.
Dear Lord thank you for Your promises, for life everlasting. Forgive me where I fail you. Amen.
For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, in order that by them you might become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust.
When our children were small they'd ask to do something, or want to go somewhere, and I'd say later. They would be persistent until I'd said okay, then they'd add. "Promise." Without thinking, I'd say yes. Sound familiar?
Most of the time I knew I couldn't, or wouldn't, keep that promise and when I didn't my children cried. They were broken hearted. They began distrusting me because I didn't keep my promises.
Throughout the Bible God has made promises to us. He promised a Messiah who would deliver us from our sins. He sent Jesus who was crucified and died for each one of us.
God made a promised to Abraham and Abraham waited patiently for God to fulfill it. In Hebrews 6:13-14 it says "For when God made the promise to Abraham, since He could swear by no one greater, He swore by Himself, saying, 'I WILL SURELY BLESS YOU, AND I WILL SURELY MULTIPLY YOU'." And God did bless Abraham.
Hebrews 7:22 says So much the more also Jesus has become the guarantee of a better covenant.
Verse after verse tells us God keeps His promises. Praise the Lord. There is no greater promise made to us than by grace through faith you are saved. I am going to spend eternity with My Lord and Savior.
Dear Lord thank you for Your promises, for life everlasting. Forgive me where I fail you. Amen.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
SEASONS
Galatians 4:10 NAS
You observe days and months and seasons and years.
Spring, summer, fall, and winter. These are the seasons of the year. Spring brings forth new creation, flowers spring from the ground, buds start popping all over the trees, and animals give birth to their new.
Summer time and the living is easy. Taking time to enjoy the family at the beach or mountains. Then comes fall. Leaves start turning colors, it starts getting colder and night approaches earlier. You leave for work in the dark and come home in the dark.
Snow, blizzards, freezing temperatures, and winter coats. Winter arrives and we stay huddled up in our homes trying to keep warm. We watch as the children bundle up to go out and make snow angels and break off the long, frozen, ice cycles to lick like pop cicles.
So too are the seasons of your life. I think Psalm 74:17 says it very well. "Thou hast established all the boundaries of the earth; Thou hast made summer and winter." God has declared the seasons of our universe along with the seasons of our lives.
He gave us life to enjoy here on earth, to live each season to the fullest, until it is our time to meet Him in heaven, and relish eternity with Him.
Dear Father I await with great anticipation of spending all eternity with You. Amen.
You observe days and months and seasons and years.
Spring, summer, fall, and winter. These are the seasons of the year. Spring brings forth new creation, flowers spring from the ground, buds start popping all over the trees, and animals give birth to their new.
Summer time and the living is easy. Taking time to enjoy the family at the beach or mountains. Then comes fall. Leaves start turning colors, it starts getting colder and night approaches earlier. You leave for work in the dark and come home in the dark.
Snow, blizzards, freezing temperatures, and winter coats. Winter arrives and we stay huddled up in our homes trying to keep warm. We watch as the children bundle up to go out and make snow angels and break off the long, frozen, ice cycles to lick like pop cicles.
So too are the seasons of your life. I think Psalm 74:17 says it very well. "Thou hast established all the boundaries of the earth; Thou hast made summer and winter." God has declared the seasons of our universe along with the seasons of our lives.
He gave us life to enjoy here on earth, to live each season to the fullest, until it is our time to meet Him in heaven, and relish eternity with Him.
Dear Father I await with great anticipation of spending all eternity with You. Amen.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
WINGS OF EAGLES
Isaiah 10:31 NAS
Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired. They will walk and not become weary.
Just writing those verses gives me something to eagerly look forward to. To fly like an eagle, soar above the ground, high as the clouds in the sky. I'll be able to run, something I've never been able to do very well. And I will never get tired. I feel like a lady in waiting!
The Native Americans revere the eagle. His majestic wings spread as he soars high above the mountains and plains in search of prey.
How much more honored are we when our Father lifts us up on the wings of an eagle. He wants to give us good days, health, wisdom, and love. Because He first loved us before we were even created, when we were in our mother's womb, He loved us. He wants to give us His all. All we have to do is ask. Ask Him to live within us, ask Him for help when we see no way out of our despair, ask Him.
Psalm 103:5 Who satisfies your years with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle.
Dear Father I love you. Forgive me when I fail You. Lead and guide me to do Your will and not mine.
Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired. They will walk and not become weary.
Just writing those verses gives me something to eagerly look forward to. To fly like an eagle, soar above the ground, high as the clouds in the sky. I'll be able to run, something I've never been able to do very well. And I will never get tired. I feel like a lady in waiting!
The Native Americans revere the eagle. His majestic wings spread as he soars high above the mountains and plains in search of prey.
How much more honored are we when our Father lifts us up on the wings of an eagle. He wants to give us good days, health, wisdom, and love. Because He first loved us before we were even created, when we were in our mother's womb, He loved us. He wants to give us His all. All we have to do is ask. Ask Him to live within us, ask Him for help when we see no way out of our despair, ask Him.
Psalm 103:5 Who satisfies your years with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle.
Dear Father I love you. Forgive me when I fail You. Lead and guide me to do Your will and not mine.
BIRTH
Ecclesiastes 7:1 NAS
A good name is better than a good ointment, and the day of one's death is better than the day of one's birth.
Our country has gone through a resurgence over the election of our officials this week. People are tired of the false claims they were promised when their candidates were elected. Everything is not coming up roses.
Our fore fathers forged a new territory when they landed on the shores of the east coast over three hundred years ago. They were looking for freedom to worship, freedom to elect officials that have the people and their country first and foremost. They were tired of the tyranny they faced in their homeland. They set pen to paper and gave credence to the constitution that would govern this great land. Like a woman giving birth to a new life they gave birth to a new nation. A nation that honored God in schools, in song, and on the capital steps.
This brings to mind how God formed the earth, sea, stars, sun, and moon. The birth of the world you might say. He spoke and their were great eruptions as the mountains rose above the land. Volcanos spewed great smoke and burst forth, throwing rough volcanic rocks as they slid down the new mountain side. Waters rose becoming vast seas while rivers gorged ravines and canyons throughout the lands. Oh to have watched God's hand as he made all this happen. How great and magnificent is our God.
Isaiah 66:9 says, "Shall I bring to the point of birth, and not give delivery? Or shall I, who gives delivery, shut the womb? says your God.
Our God stands watch, hears every prayer, sees all things, and tells us that His hand made all things. He looks for the humble and contrite that tremble at His word. He hears the falsehoods spoken and people turning against each other. Turning the tide at this election may just bring people back to what started our country to begin with. Putting God first and country second. Working together to help each other. With prayer anything can happen.
Dear Father I pray that each one of us get on our knees and ask God for guidance to put our country back to the country it once was when our ancestors established it. Amen.
A good name is better than a good ointment, and the day of one's death is better than the day of one's birth.
Our country has gone through a resurgence over the election of our officials this week. People are tired of the false claims they were promised when their candidates were elected. Everything is not coming up roses.
Our fore fathers forged a new territory when they landed on the shores of the east coast over three hundred years ago. They were looking for freedom to worship, freedom to elect officials that have the people and their country first and foremost. They were tired of the tyranny they faced in their homeland. They set pen to paper and gave credence to the constitution that would govern this great land. Like a woman giving birth to a new life they gave birth to a new nation. A nation that honored God in schools, in song, and on the capital steps.
This brings to mind how God formed the earth, sea, stars, sun, and moon. The birth of the world you might say. He spoke and their were great eruptions as the mountains rose above the land. Volcanos spewed great smoke and burst forth, throwing rough volcanic rocks as they slid down the new mountain side. Waters rose becoming vast seas while rivers gorged ravines and canyons throughout the lands. Oh to have watched God's hand as he made all this happen. How great and magnificent is our God.
Isaiah 66:9 says, "Shall I bring to the point of birth, and not give delivery? Or shall I, who gives delivery, shut the womb? says your God.
Our God stands watch, hears every prayer, sees all things, and tells us that His hand made all things. He looks for the humble and contrite that tremble at His word. He hears the falsehoods spoken and people turning against each other. Turning the tide at this election may just bring people back to what started our country to begin with. Putting God first and country second. Working together to help each other. With prayer anything can happen.
Dear Father I pray that each one of us get on our knees and ask God for guidance to put our country back to the country it once was when our ancestors established it. Amen.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
DISEASES
Matthew 4:23 NAS
And Jesus was going out in all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every kind of disease and every kind of sickness among the people.
When you think about disease you think of cancer, diabetes, heart disease, cardio- vascular disease, birth defects, autism, and multiple sclerosis. There are all kinds of infectious diseases like HIV, gonorrhea, and the list goes on and on. I think you get what I'm talking about.
There is another kind of disease we don't talk about much. The compulsive problems a lot of people face, and it seems like we are hearing more and more each day about it. You can thank our news media for spreading details, and then they turn around and tell how you can get help. These disorders plague our children, teenagers, and adults alike. Problems like obesity, bulimia, hoarding, and people that are afraid to go out of their homes. There is another kind of disorder that is becoming more and more obvious each day and that is gossiping and telling lies about your neighbors.
Politicians degrade each other, tell falsehoods, and undermine their opponents. Teenagers gossip and bully someone in their class that is different. Some of this has lead to the death of one or more. It seems like people are looking for something missing in their lives. Perhaps it is the love or approval from a parent, a spouse, or a friend. Maybe they feel they should have gotten the job that someone else got. They grow up feeling they just don't fit in.
Ezekiel 34:4 says Those who are sickly you have not strengthened, the diseased you have not healed, the broken you have not bound up, nor have you sought for the lost; but with force and with severity you have dominated them.
We are not looking to the One that can help. The One that can heal all open wounds, the sick, the down trodden, the lonely, and heart broken. A good example of prayer to our Heavenly Father in time of need is Psalm 55: 1-23. You can cast your burden upon the Lord and He will give you comfort and peace. No matter where you are, who you are, you can ask Him to dwell within you.
Dear Lord help me to fight this disease that has been afflicted upon me. I do not want to lie, cheat, steal, or bear false witness against anyone. I pray for your peace and comfort against this disease that has taken a hold of me. I pray these things in Christ Jesus. Amen.
And Jesus was going out in all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every kind of disease and every kind of sickness among the people.
When you think about disease you think of cancer, diabetes, heart disease, cardio- vascular disease, birth defects, autism, and multiple sclerosis. There are all kinds of infectious diseases like HIV, gonorrhea, and the list goes on and on. I think you get what I'm talking about.
There is another kind of disease we don't talk about much. The compulsive problems a lot of people face, and it seems like we are hearing more and more each day about it. You can thank our news media for spreading details, and then they turn around and tell how you can get help. These disorders plague our children, teenagers, and adults alike. Problems like obesity, bulimia, hoarding, and people that are afraid to go out of their homes. There is another kind of disorder that is becoming more and more obvious each day and that is gossiping and telling lies about your neighbors.
Politicians degrade each other, tell falsehoods, and undermine their opponents. Teenagers gossip and bully someone in their class that is different. Some of this has lead to the death of one or more. It seems like people are looking for something missing in their lives. Perhaps it is the love or approval from a parent, a spouse, or a friend. Maybe they feel they should have gotten the job that someone else got. They grow up feeling they just don't fit in.
Ezekiel 34:4 says Those who are sickly you have not strengthened, the diseased you have not healed, the broken you have not bound up, nor have you sought for the lost; but with force and with severity you have dominated them.
We are not looking to the One that can help. The One that can heal all open wounds, the sick, the down trodden, the lonely, and heart broken. A good example of prayer to our Heavenly Father in time of need is Psalm 55: 1-23. You can cast your burden upon the Lord and He will give you comfort and peace. No matter where you are, who you are, you can ask Him to dwell within you.
Dear Lord help me to fight this disease that has been afflicted upon me. I do not want to lie, cheat, steal, or bear false witness against anyone. I pray for your peace and comfort against this disease that has taken a hold of me. I pray these things in Christ Jesus. Amen.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
MY GOD IS AN AWESOME GOD
Psalm 89:5 NAS
And the heavens will praise Thy wonders, O Lord; Thy faithfullness also in the assembly of the holy ones.
Our daughter called late last night to let us know the judge wrapped up the divorce and custody case. No more witnesses only lawyers summations and filings. Now for the judge to go over everything and give his ruling next month. This has been a nerve racking, gut retching, nail biting, and fearful year and a half. Before our daughter said good bye she said. "Mom thank you for prayers, and thank your friends too."
Our daughter and grandchildren have been on every prayer list I could think of to put it on. She has not fully committed to giving her life over to our Lord and Savior yet. But one praise at a time.
Throughout this year my husband and I have pointed out all the good things God has brought her way, even though there have been a few not so good things. She has two beautiful, smart, talented, and healthy children. Through her guidance and perseverance they are grounded. She has a steady job and friends she can count on when things get rough. she has parents who love and care for them.
It reminds me of a time in my life when everything was going wrong for me and I thought that no one cared. My greatest hope was in Romans 8:28 "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." I read and re-read this passage many times and I found peace and hope in it.
My trials have long passed but when I look back I couldn't figure out why God was telling me this. Now I know. I had to go through fire before I could fully understand God's mercy, grace, and love. My small Christian Worker's Bible went with me everywhere and I opened it many times to the verses He gave me. Verses to give me strength and guidance. His words.
I learned from Psalm 118:8 that it is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man. I continue to do just that. He is my shelter in the storm, my guide in blinding rain, my comforter in distress, and my counselor in all things. He is my God. He can be your God too. All you have to do is confess your sins and invite Him into your heart.
Dear Heavenly Father please forgive me when I let you down and forever live within me. Amen.
And the heavens will praise Thy wonders, O Lord; Thy faithfullness also in the assembly of the holy ones.
Our daughter called late last night to let us know the judge wrapped up the divorce and custody case. No more witnesses only lawyers summations and filings. Now for the judge to go over everything and give his ruling next month. This has been a nerve racking, gut retching, nail biting, and fearful year and a half. Before our daughter said good bye she said. "Mom thank you for prayers, and thank your friends too."
Our daughter and grandchildren have been on every prayer list I could think of to put it on. She has not fully committed to giving her life over to our Lord and Savior yet. But one praise at a time.
Throughout this year my husband and I have pointed out all the good things God has brought her way, even though there have been a few not so good things. She has two beautiful, smart, talented, and healthy children. Through her guidance and perseverance they are grounded. She has a steady job and friends she can count on when things get rough. she has parents who love and care for them.
It reminds me of a time in my life when everything was going wrong for me and I thought that no one cared. My greatest hope was in Romans 8:28 "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." I read and re-read this passage many times and I found peace and hope in it.
My trials have long passed but when I look back I couldn't figure out why God was telling me this. Now I know. I had to go through fire before I could fully understand God's mercy, grace, and love. My small Christian Worker's Bible went with me everywhere and I opened it many times to the verses He gave me. Verses to give me strength and guidance. His words.
I learned from Psalm 118:8 that it is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man. I continue to do just that. He is my shelter in the storm, my guide in blinding rain, my comforter in distress, and my counselor in all things. He is my God. He can be your God too. All you have to do is confess your sins and invite Him into your heart.
Dear Heavenly Father please forgive me when I let you down and forever live within me. Amen.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
HIS LOVING HANDS
John 10:28 NAS
And I give eternal life to them, and they shall never perish; and no one shall snatch them out of My hand.
A dear friend just lost a child due to a birth defect. They've cried out in pain but their faith has kept them together. Their love for the Lord keeps them looking forward to the time when they will meet again.
My daughter is going through a nasty divorce and is ever fearful of retaliation from her ex-husband. He is not a Christian so his aggression is taken out on all around him, which is his family. Our daughter is not a Christian but has witnessed the faith her parents have, and seen God answer their prayers.
Another friend's ex-husband mysteriously disappeared leaving the family bewildered. The couple once were present every Sunday in Sunday school and church, but since the divorce, only the friend and their daughter have sought comfort in God and their church family. What could have happened in his life to have brought him to this end?
My daily prayer is that God keep my husband, children,friends, and our country in His loving hands. To keep the evil one at a distance and not let his cunning deeds harm them.
Psalm 48:10 says "As is they name, O God, so is Thy praise to the ends of the earth; Thy right hand is full of righteousness". In Isaiah 40:12 our Lord says "Who has measured the waters in the hollow of His hand, and marked off the heavens by the span, and calculated the dust of the earth by the measure, and weighed the mountains in a balance, and the hills in a pair of scales?" Both of these verses says God Himself keeps us in his hands, warding off danger and evil. All we have to do is ask.
Our God is a loving God, kind,full of mercy and grace. But he is also a righteous God ready to slap us on the hand, you might say, when we disobey. Hebrews 10:31 warns us that it is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God. Vengeance is not ours but God's.
Dear Lord I pray that you keep my family, friends, and myself in Your loving hands every day. Amen.
And I give eternal life to them, and they shall never perish; and no one shall snatch them out of My hand.
A dear friend just lost a child due to a birth defect. They've cried out in pain but their faith has kept them together. Their love for the Lord keeps them looking forward to the time when they will meet again.
My daughter is going through a nasty divorce and is ever fearful of retaliation from her ex-husband. He is not a Christian so his aggression is taken out on all around him, which is his family. Our daughter is not a Christian but has witnessed the faith her parents have, and seen God answer their prayers.
Another friend's ex-husband mysteriously disappeared leaving the family bewildered. The couple once were present every Sunday in Sunday school and church, but since the divorce, only the friend and their daughter have sought comfort in God and their church family. What could have happened in his life to have brought him to this end?
My daily prayer is that God keep my husband, children,friends, and our country in His loving hands. To keep the evil one at a distance and not let his cunning deeds harm them.
Psalm 48:10 says "As is they name, O God, so is Thy praise to the ends of the earth; Thy right hand is full of righteousness". In Isaiah 40:12 our Lord says "Who has measured the waters in the hollow of His hand, and marked off the heavens by the span, and calculated the dust of the earth by the measure, and weighed the mountains in a balance, and the hills in a pair of scales?" Both of these verses says God Himself keeps us in his hands, warding off danger and evil. All we have to do is ask.
Our God is a loving God, kind,full of mercy and grace. But he is also a righteous God ready to slap us on the hand, you might say, when we disobey. Hebrews 10:31 warns us that it is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God. Vengeance is not ours but God's.
Dear Lord I pray that you keep my family, friends, and myself in Your loving hands every day. Amen.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
INDEPENDENCE
I Corinthians 11:11 NAS
However, in the Lord, neither is woman independent of man, nor is man independent of woman.
Quiet a few years ago I was talking to my brother about our children. He began telling me how independent his daughter was. How she wanted to do things on her own, asking for no help at all. He ended by saying. "She reminds me so much of you. You always struck out on your own, doing things for yourself, and never asking for help."
At first I was upset that he said I was independent. I'd never thought of myself being like that, but as the years past I was brought back to his words again and again. As a single parent I felt like I had no one to turn to for help so I did things for myself. I learned to fix my car, to be a plumber when the sinks needed repairing, and anything else that had to be repaired around the house. Taking my children camping and fishing was the highlight of their adolescent years. We had our ups and downs but we all survived it.
It was a number of years before I met and married the love of my life. God does say have patience. After marrying I've relenquished some of my independence. I've looked to my husband for his guidance, but most of all I've learned to depend on God, not myself. Now this was not an easy process, but through prayer, and my quiet time of reading His word, I've been able to let go of my stubborness and fix all attitude.
Psalm 119:45 says "And I will walk at liberty, for I seek Thy precepts. This means that I can walk freely with my Lord but He has also given me the freedom to choose Him or walk the path of worldly ways. I choose my Lord and Savior. I have found peace and comfort.
Gracious Heavenly Father thank you for the freedom to choose You over the ways of the world. I pray I never walk without You. Amen.
However, in the Lord, neither is woman independent of man, nor is man independent of woman.
Quiet a few years ago I was talking to my brother about our children. He began telling me how independent his daughter was. How she wanted to do things on her own, asking for no help at all. He ended by saying. "She reminds me so much of you. You always struck out on your own, doing things for yourself, and never asking for help."
At first I was upset that he said I was independent. I'd never thought of myself being like that, but as the years past I was brought back to his words again and again. As a single parent I felt like I had no one to turn to for help so I did things for myself. I learned to fix my car, to be a plumber when the sinks needed repairing, and anything else that had to be repaired around the house. Taking my children camping and fishing was the highlight of their adolescent years. We had our ups and downs but we all survived it.
It was a number of years before I met and married the love of my life. God does say have patience. After marrying I've relenquished some of my independence. I've looked to my husband for his guidance, but most of all I've learned to depend on God, not myself. Now this was not an easy process, but through prayer, and my quiet time of reading His word, I've been able to let go of my stubborness and fix all attitude.
Psalm 119:45 says "And I will walk at liberty, for I seek Thy precepts. This means that I can walk freely with my Lord but He has also given me the freedom to choose Him or walk the path of worldly ways. I choose my Lord and Savior. I have found peace and comfort.
Gracious Heavenly Father thank you for the freedom to choose You over the ways of the world. I pray I never walk without You. Amen.
Friday, October 15, 2010
PROCRASTINATION
Proverbs 27:1 NAS
Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.
Procrastination. Putting off something we really don't want to do or face. Maybe it's not wanting to tell your husband you backed your new car into a post and put a dent in the bumper. He's going to find out sooner or later and sooner is much better. Get it out of the way. A sigh of relief. You feel better.
My husband came home the other night and told me a story about a lady that had heart problems. She had a pacemaker but was having problems. Her family finally convinced her she needed to go to the doctor. Upon checking her they found a problem with her pacemaker and immediately put her in the hospital to correct it. She told her family there's no need to come to the hospital and sit around. It's a short procedure, in and out in a day. Something went wrong and she died on the table. There was no one there to tell the sad news to. Would someone have come and sat if they had known there was a risk? Did they put it off, think it was nothing, she'll be home, and I'll go by and see her later?
This brings to mind putting off sharing the Bible with others. There have been times I should have, could have, shared Jesus's love with a friend or stranger, but I did not. I procrastinated.
God does not procrastinate when it comes to loving us. He waits for us to come to Him. We are the ones that put off to tomorrow instead of doing today. Don't let another day go by without asking Jesus to take control of your life, to live in your heart now. Seek His forgiveness.
Dear Heavenly Father please help me to not put off until tomorrow what I need to do today. Amen.
Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.
Procrastination. Putting off something we really don't want to do or face. Maybe it's not wanting to tell your husband you backed your new car into a post and put a dent in the bumper. He's going to find out sooner or later and sooner is much better. Get it out of the way. A sigh of relief. You feel better.
My husband came home the other night and told me a story about a lady that had heart problems. She had a pacemaker but was having problems. Her family finally convinced her she needed to go to the doctor. Upon checking her they found a problem with her pacemaker and immediately put her in the hospital to correct it. She told her family there's no need to come to the hospital and sit around. It's a short procedure, in and out in a day. Something went wrong and she died on the table. There was no one there to tell the sad news to. Would someone have come and sat if they had known there was a risk? Did they put it off, think it was nothing, she'll be home, and I'll go by and see her later?
This brings to mind putting off sharing the Bible with others. There have been times I should have, could have, shared Jesus's love with a friend or stranger, but I did not. I procrastinated.
God does not procrastinate when it comes to loving us. He waits for us to come to Him. We are the ones that put off to tomorrow instead of doing today. Don't let another day go by without asking Jesus to take control of your life, to live in your heart now. Seek His forgiveness.
Dear Heavenly Father please help me to not put off until tomorrow what I need to do today. Amen.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
MAPS
Jeremiah 31:21 NAS
Set up for yourself road marks, place for yourself guideposts; direct your mind to the highway, the way by which you went. Return, O virgin of Israel, return to these your cities.
Oh how I long for a map when I go traveling. My husband bought me a GPS and I have yet to use it. With a map I can spread it out before me, see all the little roads, major highways, and make my own choices. I may want to take the direct route, to get there quicker, that is depending on traffic. Or I may want to take a side road and look at all God has placed in my path to marvel at, the trees, old houses, barns, or maybe even an old broken bridge to no where. Hopefully that broken bridge isn't in my direct trail.
If you stop to think about it our life is much like a map. The path we choose to follow may take us way out of the way. It may take months or it could be years. Our Heavenly Father gives us the freedom to make our decision.
When we decide to take the long way around, through precarious deep valleys and treacherous high mountains, our Father is waiting for us to call out to Him. In our despair we fall on our knees and call out for help. He is there and ready. "Here I am. Take my hand and follow me."
Dear Lord I pray you are always there to give me direction in all I do and say. Amen.
Set up for yourself road marks, place for yourself guideposts; direct your mind to the highway, the way by which you went. Return, O virgin of Israel, return to these your cities.
Oh how I long for a map when I go traveling. My husband bought me a GPS and I have yet to use it. With a map I can spread it out before me, see all the little roads, major highways, and make my own choices. I may want to take the direct route, to get there quicker, that is depending on traffic. Or I may want to take a side road and look at all God has placed in my path to marvel at, the trees, old houses, barns, or maybe even an old broken bridge to no where. Hopefully that broken bridge isn't in my direct trail.
If you stop to think about it our life is much like a map. The path we choose to follow may take us way out of the way. It may take months or it could be years. Our Heavenly Father gives us the freedom to make our decision.
When we decide to take the long way around, through precarious deep valleys and treacherous high mountains, our Father is waiting for us to call out to Him. In our despair we fall on our knees and call out for help. He is there and ready. "Here I am. Take my hand and follow me."
Dear Lord I pray you are always there to give me direction in all I do and say. Amen.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
IMMORTALITY
Psalm 37:18 NAS
The Lord knows the days of the blameless, and their inheritance will be forever.
I look around at our younger generation and see myself at their age. Running here and there, trying to get as much done as I can in one day. Always in a hurry. I wanted to do it all. Living for the moment, not looking beyond tomorrow and what tomorrow would bring. I thought there would always be another day.
Now that I've reached my golden years, and I've watched some of my close friends pass away, I've come to the reality of my own immortality. What have I done with my life and who will remember me when I pass on? Did I leave a legacy?
I know what I inherit when I die. From 1 Corinthians 16:53 comes this verse. "For this perishable must put on the imperishable, and this mortal must put on immortality."
I will live forever with my Lord and Savior, but what about my children, and my children's children? They are the ones I pray for every day. My husband and I planted the seed but it may take another to sow the seed and bring it to full bloom.
As I research my ancestors lives I wonder what church did they go to? Did they go to church? Did they belong to any affiliations where they lived? So many questions but the bigger question is will I see them again when I enter heaven's gate?
I didn't know my grandfather, great grandfather, or my great great grandfather, but they left their immortality through their children and their children's children. Their name will go on.
Dear Father I pray for my children and their children, that they accept Christ as their savior, and I will live for all eternity with them praising You every minute of every day. How Great Thou Art. Amen.
The Lord knows the days of the blameless, and their inheritance will be forever.
I look around at our younger generation and see myself at their age. Running here and there, trying to get as much done as I can in one day. Always in a hurry. I wanted to do it all. Living for the moment, not looking beyond tomorrow and what tomorrow would bring. I thought there would always be another day.
Now that I've reached my golden years, and I've watched some of my close friends pass away, I've come to the reality of my own immortality. What have I done with my life and who will remember me when I pass on? Did I leave a legacy?
I know what I inherit when I die. From 1 Corinthians 16:53 comes this verse. "For this perishable must put on the imperishable, and this mortal must put on immortality."
I will live forever with my Lord and Savior, but what about my children, and my children's children? They are the ones I pray for every day. My husband and I planted the seed but it may take another to sow the seed and bring it to full bloom.
As I research my ancestors lives I wonder what church did they go to? Did they go to church? Did they belong to any affiliations where they lived? So many questions but the bigger question is will I see them again when I enter heaven's gate?
I didn't know my grandfather, great grandfather, or my great great grandfather, but they left their immortality through their children and their children's children. Their name will go on.
Dear Father I pray for my children and their children, that they accept Christ as their savior, and I will live for all eternity with them praising You every minute of every day. How Great Thou Art. Amen.
Friday, October 8, 2010
FLOWERS
Luke 12:27 NKJ
Consider the lillies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
Of all the seasons in the year fall is the one I love the best. Temperatures drop so you are able to get outside and enjoy the beautiful array of fall colors and flowers. My back yard is full of fall flowers in every color imaginable. Of course there are a few bees buzzing around the beautiful buds too. A canvas of color painted all by the Master's hand.
Many people like going to the New England states this time of the year for the fall foliage. My husband grew up in Maine and New Hampshire and has told me many times how beautiful it is, it does not compare to any place else. We live in Texas and we do not get to see many changes in our seasons here. I think I see a trip in our future!
Like seasons of the year we also have seasons in our life. As a child we live and play as a child. We learn of God's love for little children, hear Bible stories, and sing songs to praise Him.
As we go through our middle years we graduate from school, some go on to college, then we marry. Wedded bliss brings children. We do our best to raise our children, to get them through all the childhood sicknesses, school, then off to a life of their own. Praying that we've given them the foundation of love and guidance from our Heavenly Father.
Then we advance into our golden years. Ah yes, our golden years, with all its aches and pains, knee replacements, and medicines. Retirement and to do the things we looked forward to doing all of our lives. Travel and enjoying each day to it's fullest. No hustle and bustle, no alarm clock telling us it's time to get up and get to work, time to sit and relax.
Retirement doesn't mean we are to sit back and do nothing. God isn't finished with you yet. Retirement means you have more time to reach out to others who do not know the Lord as you do. To share His Word with your neighbors, the waitress who waited on you this morning at IHOP, the person you are sitting next to on the bus, the librarian who looks like she isn't having a good day. The list goes on and on. No, God is not through with you yet. There is still work to be done.
Dear Father lead me and guide me to share Your Word with others as I go through the day each day. Amen.
Consider the lillies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
Of all the seasons in the year fall is the one I love the best. Temperatures drop so you are able to get outside and enjoy the beautiful array of fall colors and flowers. My back yard is full of fall flowers in every color imaginable. Of course there are a few bees buzzing around the beautiful buds too. A canvas of color painted all by the Master's hand.
Many people like going to the New England states this time of the year for the fall foliage. My husband grew up in Maine and New Hampshire and has told me many times how beautiful it is, it does not compare to any place else. We live in Texas and we do not get to see many changes in our seasons here. I think I see a trip in our future!
Like seasons of the year we also have seasons in our life. As a child we live and play as a child. We learn of God's love for little children, hear Bible stories, and sing songs to praise Him.
As we go through our middle years we graduate from school, some go on to college, then we marry. Wedded bliss brings children. We do our best to raise our children, to get them through all the childhood sicknesses, school, then off to a life of their own. Praying that we've given them the foundation of love and guidance from our Heavenly Father.
Then we advance into our golden years. Ah yes, our golden years, with all its aches and pains, knee replacements, and medicines. Retirement and to do the things we looked forward to doing all of our lives. Travel and enjoying each day to it's fullest. No hustle and bustle, no alarm clock telling us it's time to get up and get to work, time to sit and relax.
Retirement doesn't mean we are to sit back and do nothing. God isn't finished with you yet. Retirement means you have more time to reach out to others who do not know the Lord as you do. To share His Word with your neighbors, the waitress who waited on you this morning at IHOP, the person you are sitting next to on the bus, the librarian who looks like she isn't having a good day. The list goes on and on. No, God is not through with you yet. There is still work to be done.
Dear Father lead me and guide me to share Your Word with others as I go through the day each day. Amen.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
HEART
Psalm 44:21 NAS
Would not God find this out? For He knows the secrets of the heart.
We are made up of bones, muscles,nerves, and blood flows through our veins that pumps our heart to keep us alive. A fine oiled machine created by God. When one or more organs have a problem we go to the doctor and expect him to fix it. Like our car we ask a mechanic, our appliances we call the repair man, plumbing we call the plumber. Well, you get the picture.
My brother had heart bypass surgery this week. His wife called and said he came through with flying colors. I praise the Lord for giving him more time with his family.
I was able to spend time with him and his wife only a month ago while I was in Washington. He showed me his garden, his worm farm, how he was drying garlic in his garage along with his onions, and he even showed me his bee hives. From head of a bomb squad in the Sheriff's Department to a gardner. Retirement has brought out a side of my brother I never knew.
The heart is also the major part of our family. It needs to be healthy or there can be serious problems. A loving mother and father that lead the family to the Lord by regular church attendance. To unselfishly serve others, show a deep respect for God, and have a personal relationship with Him. Jeremiah 17:9 tells us "The heart is more deceitful than anything else."
Have you checked your heart today? Why not get down on your knees and ask Jesus to take control of your life and heart.
Gracious Lord thank you for taking care of my brother and keeping him in Your loving hands. I pray that each of us take a better look at our hearts, both with a doctors visit, and asking You to reside within us. Amen.
Would not God find this out? For He knows the secrets of the heart.
We are made up of bones, muscles,nerves, and blood flows through our veins that pumps our heart to keep us alive. A fine oiled machine created by God. When one or more organs have a problem we go to the doctor and expect him to fix it. Like our car we ask a mechanic, our appliances we call the repair man, plumbing we call the plumber. Well, you get the picture.
My brother had heart bypass surgery this week. His wife called and said he came through with flying colors. I praise the Lord for giving him more time with his family.
I was able to spend time with him and his wife only a month ago while I was in Washington. He showed me his garden, his worm farm, how he was drying garlic in his garage along with his onions, and he even showed me his bee hives. From head of a bomb squad in the Sheriff's Department to a gardner. Retirement has brought out a side of my brother I never knew.
The heart is also the major part of our family. It needs to be healthy or there can be serious problems. A loving mother and father that lead the family to the Lord by regular church attendance. To unselfishly serve others, show a deep respect for God, and have a personal relationship with Him. Jeremiah 17:9 tells us "The heart is more deceitful than anything else."
Have you checked your heart today? Why not get down on your knees and ask Jesus to take control of your life and heart.
Gracious Lord thank you for taking care of my brother and keeping him in Your loving hands. I pray that each of us take a better look at our hearts, both with a doctors visit, and asking You to reside within us. Amen.
Friday, October 1, 2010
GIVE ME A SIGN
Psalm 86:17 NAS
Show me a sign for good, that those who hate me may see it, and be ashamed, because Thou, O Lord, has helped me and comforted me.
There has been many high and low times in my life. When I went through my divorce I thought God had walked away from me. Why would He let me go through the abuse, harassment, and stalking that I endured? I cried out many times asking those questions. "What did I do Lord that was so wrong that I and my children must go through all this?"
That was over thirty years ago and I can honestly say today I know why I went through that deep valley. He was there with me, He walked with me, kept me in His hands, shielded me and my children from harm, and brought me to a fuller and deeper understanding of His grace and glory.
I've watched my children grow into fine adults, marry, and have children of their own. They've had high and low times in their lives also. Although brought up in the church most do not attend on a regular basis. This breaks my heart and I pray for them daily, along with praying for my siblings. I know, through Faith, God is always there, for me and for them. I pray they see that, sooner than later.
Most Gracious Heavenly Father I pray You keep my children, brothers, and sisters in Your loving hands and guide them, even though they do not realize it's You who is in control. Amen.
Show me a sign for good, that those who hate me may see it, and be ashamed, because Thou, O Lord, has helped me and comforted me.
There has been many high and low times in my life. When I went through my divorce I thought God had walked away from me. Why would He let me go through the abuse, harassment, and stalking that I endured? I cried out many times asking those questions. "What did I do Lord that was so wrong that I and my children must go through all this?"
That was over thirty years ago and I can honestly say today I know why I went through that deep valley. He was there with me, He walked with me, kept me in His hands, shielded me and my children from harm, and brought me to a fuller and deeper understanding of His grace and glory.
I've watched my children grow into fine adults, marry, and have children of their own. They've had high and low times in their lives also. Although brought up in the church most do not attend on a regular basis. This breaks my heart and I pray for them daily, along with praying for my siblings. I know, through Faith, God is always there, for me and for them. I pray they see that, sooner than later.
Most Gracious Heavenly Father I pray You keep my children, brothers, and sisters in Your loving hands and guide them, even though they do not realize it's You who is in control. Amen.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
CORRUPT
Genesis 6:11 NAS
Now the earth was corrupt in the sight of God, and the earth was filled with violence.
Pick up the newspaper, turn on the television or radio and what you will hear and see is violence. Someone has been stabbed, shot, raped, or robbed. Today there was a shooting on the campus of UT Austin, Texas.
Domestic violence is of high priority. A spouse gets upset when things are not going the way they want it to. Instead of seeking help to work out their problems they will pick up a gun, stalk, harass, or even try to run down the other person. It doesn't have to be a man, it can be a woman, who does something to the other.
Perhaps there is children involved. Children are the innocent victims. They are defenseless.
From Cain and Abel's time there has been corruption. Evil has spread throughout our world. People forget to treat others like they would like to be treated. It's do unto others before they do unto me. The Bible tells us that throughout history there has been corruption and it seems to get worse through the ages.
Our God is a loving God and He gives us plenty of time to follow Him. He knocks on your heart asking to dwell within you. But you cannot continue to ignore Him. Even though he gives us so much time one day He will stop knocking. By ignoring Him your heart will become hardened towards Him. I pray you will not let one more day go by without accepting Him and living with Him in eternity.
Dear Heavenly Father I thank You for being Your child and giving me life everlasting. Amen.
Now the earth was corrupt in the sight of God, and the earth was filled with violence.
Pick up the newspaper, turn on the television or radio and what you will hear and see is violence. Someone has been stabbed, shot, raped, or robbed. Today there was a shooting on the campus of UT Austin, Texas.
Domestic violence is of high priority. A spouse gets upset when things are not going the way they want it to. Instead of seeking help to work out their problems they will pick up a gun, stalk, harass, or even try to run down the other person. It doesn't have to be a man, it can be a woman, who does something to the other.
Perhaps there is children involved. Children are the innocent victims. They are defenseless.
From Cain and Abel's time there has been corruption. Evil has spread throughout our world. People forget to treat others like they would like to be treated. It's do unto others before they do unto me. The Bible tells us that throughout history there has been corruption and it seems to get worse through the ages.
Our God is a loving God and He gives us plenty of time to follow Him. He knocks on your heart asking to dwell within you. But you cannot continue to ignore Him. Even though he gives us so much time one day He will stop knocking. By ignoring Him your heart will become hardened towards Him. I pray you will not let one more day go by without accepting Him and living with Him in eternity.
Dear Heavenly Father I thank You for being Your child and giving me life everlasting. Amen.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
SHADOW
Psalm 36:7 NIV
How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings.
I've been going through some low points lately. You know what I mean, feeling out of sorts, not wanting to do anything, go any where. Things seem to go askew during the day. I didn't feel like God was close to me although I prayed each day for His guidance.
Yes, we've all been there at sometime or another. You just don't feel His presence. That doesn't mean He isn't there. He is always there. Like the poem 'Footprints' says He carries us even when we think He has abandoned us. We are so in tune with our wants, our ways, our miseries, and our needs that we think we can handle all things, we can do all things ourselves. Our Lord is there waiting, carrying us, holding us in the palm of His hands.
It doesn't matter who you are, where you are, or how rich or beautiful you are, God is there waiting for you to lay your troubles, problems, cares, and prayers at His feet. He sees no race, creed, or riches. He wants to keep us in the shadow of His protective wings. He wants to have fellowship with us through our prayers or daily talks with Him.
Gracious Heavenly Father always keep me in the shadow of Your wings and Your loving arms around me. May I always seek Your guidance. Amen.
How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings.
I've been going through some low points lately. You know what I mean, feeling out of sorts, not wanting to do anything, go any where. Things seem to go askew during the day. I didn't feel like God was close to me although I prayed each day for His guidance.
Yes, we've all been there at sometime or another. You just don't feel His presence. That doesn't mean He isn't there. He is always there. Like the poem 'Footprints' says He carries us even when we think He has abandoned us. We are so in tune with our wants, our ways, our miseries, and our needs that we think we can handle all things, we can do all things ourselves. Our Lord is there waiting, carrying us, holding us in the palm of His hands.
It doesn't matter who you are, where you are, or how rich or beautiful you are, God is there waiting for you to lay your troubles, problems, cares, and prayers at His feet. He sees no race, creed, or riches. He wants to keep us in the shadow of His protective wings. He wants to have fellowship with us through our prayers or daily talks with Him.
Gracious Heavenly Father always keep me in the shadow of Your wings and Your loving arms around me. May I always seek Your guidance. Amen.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
DICIPLINE
Hebrews 12:6 NAC
For those whom the Lord loves he disciplines, and He scourges every one whom He receives.
I've been trying, but not trying hard enough, to discipline myself into getting up earlier each morning so I can have quiet time. Then get to the gym to exercise. And that is not going very good.
Going on a diet is even a bigger challenge of discipline in my life. Without thinking I'll go to the refrigerator and grab something to tide me over, not thinking about what I put in my mouth. Purging my cupboards is low on my to do list. I tell myself just because I'm on a diet why punish my husband, who by the way, says he could go on a diet also.
In the end, I have to say I do not live a disciplined life! It's a bold, eye opening, gut wrenching, statement, but it's the truth.
Sometimes I spend more money than I should and then I feel bad about it. I should have been more diciplined with our money. Thinking before doing is going to be my new motto.
God wants us to think before we do. Our lives get so cluttered with things, laziness, too much to eat, and you get the picture. We have too many toys, too many trinkets. I speak for myself on the toys and trinkets. My life is overflowing with so many things when there are people out there that could use my time, money, and the overflow of things.
Proverbs 5:23 (NIV) says "He will die for lack of discipline, led astray by his own great folly." The NAS version says "He will die for lack of instruction, and in the greatness of his folly he will go astray."
Both versions say basically the same thing. If you do not discipline your life you will surely pay. One way or the other you will pay.
Our Lord wants me to reign with Him throughout all eternity and I know I must get my priorities straight by being more disciplined.
Dear Father I pray for Your guidance. Help me get my priorities right and take better control of my life. To live my life for You Lord. Amen.
For those whom the Lord loves he disciplines, and He scourges every one whom He receives.
I've been trying, but not trying hard enough, to discipline myself into getting up earlier each morning so I can have quiet time. Then get to the gym to exercise. And that is not going very good.
Going on a diet is even a bigger challenge of discipline in my life. Without thinking I'll go to the refrigerator and grab something to tide me over, not thinking about what I put in my mouth. Purging my cupboards is low on my to do list. I tell myself just because I'm on a diet why punish my husband, who by the way, says he could go on a diet also.
In the end, I have to say I do not live a disciplined life! It's a bold, eye opening, gut wrenching, statement, but it's the truth.
Sometimes I spend more money than I should and then I feel bad about it. I should have been more diciplined with our money. Thinking before doing is going to be my new motto.
God wants us to think before we do. Our lives get so cluttered with things, laziness, too much to eat, and you get the picture. We have too many toys, too many trinkets. I speak for myself on the toys and trinkets. My life is overflowing with so many things when there are people out there that could use my time, money, and the overflow of things.
Proverbs 5:23 (NIV) says "He will die for lack of discipline, led astray by his own great folly." The NAS version says "He will die for lack of instruction, and in the greatness of his folly he will go astray."
Both versions say basically the same thing. If you do not discipline your life you will surely pay. One way or the other you will pay.
Our Lord wants me to reign with Him throughout all eternity and I know I must get my priorities straight by being more disciplined.
Dear Father I pray for Your guidance. Help me get my priorities right and take better control of my life. To live my life for You Lord. Amen.
Friday, September 17, 2010
IN THE BEGINNING
Genesis 1:1 NAS
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
As a writer I write a story or an article with a beginning, middle, and an ending. So too are our lives.
We are born, we live our busy lives getting married, having children, raising children, living our golden years, and then we pass away. I've often wondered would anyone know I even existed? Did I make a difference? Did anyone really care that I lived?
Besides my children, other wise they wouldn't be here, God cares. In the beginning He created man to enjoy fellowship with him.
Job 8:7 (NAS) says Though your beginning was insignificant, yet your end will increase greatly. Job was blameless, upright, fearing God and turned away from evil. Through his many trials and difficulties his love and faith for our Lord never wavered. In the end God rewarded him greatly.
Proverbs 8: 22-23 (NAS) says The Lord possessed me at the beginning of His way, before His works of old. From everlasting I was established, from the beginning from the earliest times of the earth. God knew all about me before I was born. He knew my name, who I was, and He loved me. The many times I strayed from His word, the not so good things I did in my life, but still He loved me. He loves me.
God created a perfect world for not so perfect people. He gave us free will so we can choose to walk with Him or to walk with the world.
He has always been with me even when I didn't feel His presence. I was the one that had strayed and was trying to find my way back. I'm been brought to my knees a few times because I thought I could handle my life without Him. Without God I am nothing and can do nothing, but with God I can do all things.
Dear Father in Heaven I thank You for knowing me before I was born and that You are with me at all times. I praise Your Hold Name for who You are and what You do in my life and my loved ones lives. I am blessed. Amen.
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
As a writer I write a story or an article with a beginning, middle, and an ending. So too are our lives.
We are born, we live our busy lives getting married, having children, raising children, living our golden years, and then we pass away. I've often wondered would anyone know I even existed? Did I make a difference? Did anyone really care that I lived?
Besides my children, other wise they wouldn't be here, God cares. In the beginning He created man to enjoy fellowship with him.
Job 8:7 (NAS) says Though your beginning was insignificant, yet your end will increase greatly. Job was blameless, upright, fearing God and turned away from evil. Through his many trials and difficulties his love and faith for our Lord never wavered. In the end God rewarded him greatly.
Proverbs 8: 22-23 (NAS) says The Lord possessed me at the beginning of His way, before His works of old. From everlasting I was established, from the beginning from the earliest times of the earth. God knew all about me before I was born. He knew my name, who I was, and He loved me. The many times I strayed from His word, the not so good things I did in my life, but still He loved me. He loves me.
God created a perfect world for not so perfect people. He gave us free will so we can choose to walk with Him or to walk with the world.
He has always been with me even when I didn't feel His presence. I was the one that had strayed and was trying to find my way back. I'm been brought to my knees a few times because I thought I could handle my life without Him. Without God I am nothing and can do nothing, but with God I can do all things.
Dear Father in Heaven I thank You for knowing me before I was born and that You are with me at all times. I praise Your Hold Name for who You are and what You do in my life and my loved ones lives. I am blessed. Amen.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
MY BELOVED
Song Of Solomon 4:1 NAS
"How beautiful you are, my darling, how beautiful you are! Your eyes are like doves behind your veil: your hair is like a flock of goats that have descended from Mount Gilead."
Last weekend I was privileged to be at my granddaughter's wedding. What a lovely sight as she walked down the aisle, weeping, as did I. Tears of joy. Her gold tiara held her strawberry blond hair in place. Baby blue eyes glistened as she approached her beloved. Full red lips ready to say the words "I do."
The groom's mother, a pastor herself, between tears of joy and long pauses, pronounced them man and wife amid sounds of amens and clapping. What a joyous celebration. His father was his best man. A family tied together through the love of Jesus Christ our Savior. I knew my granddaughter would have guidance to walk with the Lord.
As I watched throughout the ceremony it brought to mind how Solomon felt towards his bride. His expressive words of love to a beautiful girl from the country. The Song of Songs is a poetic record of Solomon's actual romance with a Shulammite woman. It traces his falling in love, united in love, struggling in love, and then growing in love.
The Song Of Somomon pictures Israel as God's bride and the Church as the bride of Christ. As human life finds its fulfillment in the love of man and woman, so does spiritual life finds its highest fulfillment in the love of God for His people.
Gracious Heavenly Father I pray You keep my grandchildren in Your hands and that they always look to You for guidance in all things. Amen.
"How beautiful you are, my darling, how beautiful you are! Your eyes are like doves behind your veil: your hair is like a flock of goats that have descended from Mount Gilead."
Last weekend I was privileged to be at my granddaughter's wedding. What a lovely sight as she walked down the aisle, weeping, as did I. Tears of joy. Her gold tiara held her strawberry blond hair in place. Baby blue eyes glistened as she approached her beloved. Full red lips ready to say the words "I do."
The groom's mother, a pastor herself, between tears of joy and long pauses, pronounced them man and wife amid sounds of amens and clapping. What a joyous celebration. His father was his best man. A family tied together through the love of Jesus Christ our Savior. I knew my granddaughter would have guidance to walk with the Lord.
As I watched throughout the ceremony it brought to mind how Solomon felt towards his bride. His expressive words of love to a beautiful girl from the country. The Song of Songs is a poetic record of Solomon's actual romance with a Shulammite woman. It traces his falling in love, united in love, struggling in love, and then growing in love.
The Song Of Somomon pictures Israel as God's bride and the Church as the bride of Christ. As human life finds its fulfillment in the love of man and woman, so does spiritual life finds its highest fulfillment in the love of God for His people.
Gracious Heavenly Father I pray You keep my grandchildren in Your hands and that they always look to You for guidance in all things. Amen.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
DIETS
Matthew 6:25 NAS
I say to you, do not be anxious for your life, as to what you shall eat, or what you shall drink; nor for your body, as to what you shall put on. Is not life more than food, and the body than clothing?
Like so many others I have struggled all my life with keeping my weight under control. Sometimes I win but most of the time my weight gains the upper hand.
We like to savor our food. Restaurants give us more than we can eat or that our bodies need at each sitting. Many people will go to the restaurant, place their order and then ask for a to go box along with their order. This way when the food arrives they immediately take half, place it in the box, and take it home, only eating what is left on their plate.
Husbands and wives will go to a restaurant and order one meal and an extra plate. My husband and I do this occasionally, but should do it more often. Sometimes when I go to a restaurant I'm so hungry and my eyes are bigger than my stomach, so I will order, and then try to eat it all. Then I'm sick for the rest of the evening. You get what I'm talking about.
Then there is the exercise. Yes the exercise. Commercials draw us in on the newest gadgets and how they will help you loose weight by using their machine only a few minutes a couple of days a week. We guarantee it! Have you heard that before?
In 1 Corinthians 6:20 it says "Therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's."
My body is not mine but a temple for my Lord. God has given me free will to choose for myself. How I use that free will depends on how far I stray from God's word and talking to Him in my quiet time.
I've taken stock of my life, how I've let my eating habits go by the wayside, and not exercising the way I should. It's time to take control and get back on course again.
Dear Heavenly Father forgive me for being lazy and letting Your temple go adrift. I pray for Your guidance to get it back on track again. Amen
I say to you, do not be anxious for your life, as to what you shall eat, or what you shall drink; nor for your body, as to what you shall put on. Is not life more than food, and the body than clothing?
Like so many others I have struggled all my life with keeping my weight under control. Sometimes I win but most of the time my weight gains the upper hand.
We like to savor our food. Restaurants give us more than we can eat or that our bodies need at each sitting. Many people will go to the restaurant, place their order and then ask for a to go box along with their order. This way when the food arrives they immediately take half, place it in the box, and take it home, only eating what is left on their plate.
Husbands and wives will go to a restaurant and order one meal and an extra plate. My husband and I do this occasionally, but should do it more often. Sometimes when I go to a restaurant I'm so hungry and my eyes are bigger than my stomach, so I will order, and then try to eat it all. Then I'm sick for the rest of the evening. You get what I'm talking about.
Then there is the exercise. Yes the exercise. Commercials draw us in on the newest gadgets and how they will help you loose weight by using their machine only a few minutes a couple of days a week. We guarantee it! Have you heard that before?
In 1 Corinthians 6:20 it says "Therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's."
My body is not mine but a temple for my Lord. God has given me free will to choose for myself. How I use that free will depends on how far I stray from God's word and talking to Him in my quiet time.
I've taken stock of my life, how I've let my eating habits go by the wayside, and not exercising the way I should. It's time to take control and get back on course again.
Dear Heavenly Father forgive me for being lazy and letting Your temple go adrift. I pray for Your guidance to get it back on track again. Amen
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
WOMB
Luke 1:41 NAS
And it came about that when Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.
With great joy our granddaughter announced she is pregnant again after suffering a miscarriage earlier this year. This will be baby number two. Their greatest prayer is that this will be a healthy happy baby.
Our grandson's wife is expecting their first baby in November. The baby's room is painted, decorated, and furniture in place for their little farmer to make his grand entrance. Yes, they know they adding a little boy to make their love complete.
Our family is a large family with six children, seventeen grandchildren, and now expecting our fifth great grandchild. I never dreamed my family would be so large and so spread out. From the mountains of California to the shores of South Carolina, the deep south of Texas, and even on foreign soil our family goes about their daily lives.
We are excited and eager to open our hearts and arms for another new life. A child to tell Bible stories to, about Jesus and His love. How He died for our sins.
I wonder what stories Mary told her little boy when He was growing up, and what songs she sang to Him when she rocked Him in her arms. Did she tell Him how special He was? I'd like to think He already knew it.
Dear Father thank you for loving me to send Your son to die for my sins. Forgive me me when I let you down. Amen.
And it came about that when Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.
With great joy our granddaughter announced she is pregnant again after suffering a miscarriage earlier this year. This will be baby number two. Their greatest prayer is that this will be a healthy happy baby.
Our grandson's wife is expecting their first baby in November. The baby's room is painted, decorated, and furniture in place for their little farmer to make his grand entrance. Yes, they know they adding a little boy to make their love complete.
Our family is a large family with six children, seventeen grandchildren, and now expecting our fifth great grandchild. I never dreamed my family would be so large and so spread out. From the mountains of California to the shores of South Carolina, the deep south of Texas, and even on foreign soil our family goes about their daily lives.
We are excited and eager to open our hearts and arms for another new life. A child to tell Bible stories to, about Jesus and His love. How He died for our sins.
I wonder what stories Mary told her little boy when He was growing up, and what songs she sang to Him when she rocked Him in her arms. Did she tell Him how special He was? I'd like to think He already knew it.
Dear Father thank you for loving me to send Your son to die for my sins. Forgive me me when I let you down. Amen.
DREAMS
Joel 2:28 NAS
And it will come about after this that I will pour out My Spirit on all mankind; and your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, Your young men will see visions.
I've put off going to bed a few times, afraid my frightening dreams from the night before would revisit me. Everyone of us has had those dreams that felt so real, that haunted you all day, sometimes for days. You wondered if it was a premonition of something to come and you tried to shove it deep into the recesses of your mind.
In Matthrew 2:12 God warned the wise men in a dream not to return to Herod so they departed for their own country by another way.
Matthew 2:13 God also warned Joseph to take the Child and His mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you: for "Herod is going to search for the Child to destroy Him."
Psalms 73:20 says Like a dream when one awakes, O Lord, when aroused, Thou wilt despire their form.
The Bible speaks of men, Godly men and ungodly men, who had dreams. Dreams they couldn't decipher, didn't know their true meaning. There were a few times that men led by God deciphered dreams for kings.
I'd like to think my dreams are not premonitions, but because of the stress of the day, maybe a book I'd just read, or even something I saw on television just before I went to bed made their way into my dreams.
I do not ever remember any of my dreams coming true. At least, any of the dreams I could remember upon waking the next morning. Books have been written about dreams in general, presenting their interpretations.
If my dreams are a message from God I will know it in my heart. Our Lord speaks to each one of us in many ways, through the Bible, our quiet time, and to our heart.
Dear Father in Heaven thank you for each time You have spoken to me in my quiet time. I pray for Your guidance every day in all I do. Amen.
And it will come about after this that I will pour out My Spirit on all mankind; and your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, Your young men will see visions.
I've put off going to bed a few times, afraid my frightening dreams from the night before would revisit me. Everyone of us has had those dreams that felt so real, that haunted you all day, sometimes for days. You wondered if it was a premonition of something to come and you tried to shove it deep into the recesses of your mind.
In Matthrew 2:12 God warned the wise men in a dream not to return to Herod so they departed for their own country by another way.
Matthew 2:13 God also warned Joseph to take the Child and His mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you: for "Herod is going to search for the Child to destroy Him."
Psalms 73:20 says Like a dream when one awakes, O Lord, when aroused, Thou wilt despire their form.
The Bible speaks of men, Godly men and ungodly men, who had dreams. Dreams they couldn't decipher, didn't know their true meaning. There were a few times that men led by God deciphered dreams for kings.
I'd like to think my dreams are not premonitions, but because of the stress of the day, maybe a book I'd just read, or even something I saw on television just before I went to bed made their way into my dreams.
I do not ever remember any of my dreams coming true. At least, any of the dreams I could remember upon waking the next morning. Books have been written about dreams in general, presenting their interpretations.
If my dreams are a message from God I will know it in my heart. Our Lord speaks to each one of us in many ways, through the Bible, our quiet time, and to our heart.
Dear Father in Heaven thank you for each time You have spoken to me in my quiet time. I pray for Your guidance every day in all I do. Amen.
FRUSTRATION
Isaiah 14:27 NAS
For the Lord of hosts has planned, and who can frustrate it? And as for His stretched-out hand, who can turn it back?
Frustration roars its ugly head at least once in my day and maybe yours too. On a certain day I oversleep and then I'm in a rush to get out the door, so I quickly pour water in the coffee maker and it leaks all over the counter. After cleaning up the mess I glance at my watch and see I'm going to be late for my dental appointment. On the way to the office traffic is a mess. Cars cutting me off and I'm slamming on the brakes.
Sound familiar? Maybe this is another scenario in your life. You're trying to get the monthly report out and the phone keeps ringing. The person on the other end of the line is asking some very unimportant questions, that is, in your opinion. The printer is out of paper, then the paper jams while you are trying to get it all put together for the boss.
I could go on and on but you know what I'm talking about. Sometimes it's the little things in our lives that frustrate us. As we get older our eyesight is not what it used to be. We have to wear our glasses just to do the smallest task of threading a needle. Our hands won't grasp a lid as well as they used to and we can't open a jar without help.
There are many things in our lives that can frazzle us, to make us fee like we are no longer in control of a situation, but have you wondered how our Lord feels when we frustrate him? He gives us free will to make choices, some of these choices are not where He wants us to be, but He lets us do it. I know He must be disappointed but He is always there when we finally come to the realization that He was right all along. He is waiting for us to turn to Him when all else fails, we ask for His forgiveness, and let Him guide our lives. He never fails.
Heavenly Father I thank you for always being there for me. For giving me my free will to find out I can't do anything without You. Thank you Lord. Amen.
For the Lord of hosts has planned, and who can frustrate it? And as for His stretched-out hand, who can turn it back?
Frustration roars its ugly head at least once in my day and maybe yours too. On a certain day I oversleep and then I'm in a rush to get out the door, so I quickly pour water in the coffee maker and it leaks all over the counter. After cleaning up the mess I glance at my watch and see I'm going to be late for my dental appointment. On the way to the office traffic is a mess. Cars cutting me off and I'm slamming on the brakes.
Sound familiar? Maybe this is another scenario in your life. You're trying to get the monthly report out and the phone keeps ringing. The person on the other end of the line is asking some very unimportant questions, that is, in your opinion. The printer is out of paper, then the paper jams while you are trying to get it all put together for the boss.
I could go on and on but you know what I'm talking about. Sometimes it's the little things in our lives that frustrate us. As we get older our eyesight is not what it used to be. We have to wear our glasses just to do the smallest task of threading a needle. Our hands won't grasp a lid as well as they used to and we can't open a jar without help.
There are many things in our lives that can frazzle us, to make us fee like we are no longer in control of a situation, but have you wondered how our Lord feels when we frustrate him? He gives us free will to make choices, some of these choices are not where He wants us to be, but He lets us do it. I know He must be disappointed but He is always there when we finally come to the realization that He was right all along. He is waiting for us to turn to Him when all else fails, we ask for His forgiveness, and let Him guide our lives. He never fails.
Heavenly Father I thank you for always being there for me. For giving me my free will to find out I can't do anything without You. Thank you Lord. Amen.
PRUNING
Matthew 3:10 NAS
And the axe is already laid at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
Before I took leave and went out of state for a month I made a mental note to get the bushes in front of my house pruned. After three weeks of crisscrossing Washington state and then returning home, the bushes under the front window had grown half way up the window, and the bushes on the end were sticking out every which way. I could not contain myself any longer so out came the pruning sheers.
I went to work first taking off the longer stems then working my way down to a reasonable size. Each time I thought I had the right length I'd step back and look at my masterpiece. A little more here and a little more there. As I worked away I thought about the busyness in my life that needed to be pruned.
Looking deeper into my daily activities I could see where I could let go of some of the little things that were taking more time than need be. Where was God in my daily life? I was busy doing and giving God a smaller and smaller amount of my time every day. God wants to have time with us. To be in His word and to talk to Him daily. I needed God to prune my life, to let me know I didn't need all of the filler in my life. All I needed was Him.
God is waiting to be in fellowship with us. He prunes our lives each time we come to Him asking Him to take away our sins and for His forgiveness.
Dear Lord please take away some of the busy things in my life so that I can be in Your word daily. To sit and talk to you, to praise You for all You do in my life. Amen.
And the axe is already laid at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
Before I took leave and went out of state for a month I made a mental note to get the bushes in front of my house pruned. After three weeks of crisscrossing Washington state and then returning home, the bushes under the front window had grown half way up the window, and the bushes on the end were sticking out every which way. I could not contain myself any longer so out came the pruning sheers.
I went to work first taking off the longer stems then working my way down to a reasonable size. Each time I thought I had the right length I'd step back and look at my masterpiece. A little more here and a little more there. As I worked away I thought about the busyness in my life that needed to be pruned.
Looking deeper into my daily activities I could see where I could let go of some of the little things that were taking more time than need be. Where was God in my daily life? I was busy doing and giving God a smaller and smaller amount of my time every day. God wants to have time with us. To be in His word and to talk to Him daily. I needed God to prune my life, to let me know I didn't need all of the filler in my life. All I needed was Him.
God is waiting to be in fellowship with us. He prunes our lives each time we come to Him asking Him to take away our sins and for His forgiveness.
Dear Lord please take away some of the busy things in my life so that I can be in Your word daily. To sit and talk to you, to praise You for all You do in my life. Amen.
Friday, August 6, 2010
TRIBULATION
Romans 2:20-24 ESV
An instructor of the foolish, a teacher of children, having in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth--you then who teach others, do you not teach yourself? While you preach against stealing, do you steal? You who say that one must not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? You who boast in the law dishonor God by breaking the law. For, as it is written, "The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you."
I've been visitng with old friends, an ancestry hunt, and supporting my daughter who's going through a divorce. It breaks my heart for this to happen but what hurts much more is what is going on behind the scenes.
My grandchildren are the ones that are suffering, as of which most children suffer when the parents go through a divorce. I do not wish any ill will towards my son-in-law, and know full well that the Lord will handle everything. I trust in Him.
What does hurt is the untruth he is saying, not only against the children's mother but, in one hand he carrries the Bible then on the other hand he is doing what he says his wife is doing. You cannot say that one is committing adultery and yet do it yourself. As Romans says you cannot preach against stealing and yet you are doing it. Your children see and hear everything, and more than what you think.
This has hit close to home but from what I've seen everyday in the newspaper, television, and radio it is happening more often than not. As an adult we are to set the example for our children, not teach them to lie, cheat, steal, or commit adultery.
I do pray this ordeal will end soon and each parent will go on with their separate lives, but agree on the raising of the children together for their sake.
Dear Heavenly Father I pray for each to have strength throughout this tribulation and be able to eventually be friends for the children's sake. Amen.
An instructor of the foolish, a teacher of children, having in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth--you then who teach others, do you not teach yourself? While you preach against stealing, do you steal? You who say that one must not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? You who boast in the law dishonor God by breaking the law. For, as it is written, "The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you."
I've been visitng with old friends, an ancestry hunt, and supporting my daughter who's going through a divorce. It breaks my heart for this to happen but what hurts much more is what is going on behind the scenes.
My grandchildren are the ones that are suffering, as of which most children suffer when the parents go through a divorce. I do not wish any ill will towards my son-in-law, and know full well that the Lord will handle everything. I trust in Him.
What does hurt is the untruth he is saying, not only against the children's mother but, in one hand he carrries the Bible then on the other hand he is doing what he says his wife is doing. You cannot say that one is committing adultery and yet do it yourself. As Romans says you cannot preach against stealing and yet you are doing it. Your children see and hear everything, and more than what you think.
This has hit close to home but from what I've seen everyday in the newspaper, television, and radio it is happening more often than not. As an adult we are to set the example for our children, not teach them to lie, cheat, steal, or commit adultery.
I do pray this ordeal will end soon and each parent will go on with their separate lives, but agree on the raising of the children together for their sake.
Dear Heavenly Father I pray for each to have strength throughout this tribulation and be able to eventually be friends for the children's sake. Amen.
Monday, July 26, 2010
INNER ROOM
Matthew 6:6 NAS
But you, when you pray, go into your inner room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees in secret will repay you.
There are times when you think you are the only one that does that quirky thing a certain way. You are not alone. I was at a writer's workshop and heard a speaker say she does a lot of praying in her shower. And there is a lot of times where her best writing ideas materialize. I thought I was the only one that did that!
About fifteen years ago I was so bogged down at work and at home. I felt like I hadn't given God any time in prayer, it was quick time prayer. More like I need to pray, so just a couple of lines will do for now, prayer.
Then one morning when I stepped into the shower, I just started praying. It was alone time between God and me. I put a handfull of shampoo in my hair and started lathering up. The more I worked my fingers into my hair the more I prayed. I dabbed a small amount of conditioner on the palm of my hand and ran it through my hair. By the time I finished with my shower my hair had been washed along with other parts, but the best feeling I had was a feeling of peace.
God has said to go into your inner most room and pray. Pray without ceasing. You are giving Him your full attention, no television,phone, ipod, or radio for back ground effect. Quiet, one on one with the Father.
Sometimes my shower time lasts longer than it should, but like the speaker, after my prayer time I'm inspired by His silent urging. Something more to write about. Another phrase or single word to elaborate on.
Dear Lord I thank you for my quiet time with you. I pray that others will think of where they can have their quiet time with You too. Amen.
But you, when you pray, go into your inner room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees in secret will repay you.
There are times when you think you are the only one that does that quirky thing a certain way. You are not alone. I was at a writer's workshop and heard a speaker say she does a lot of praying in her shower. And there is a lot of times where her best writing ideas materialize. I thought I was the only one that did that!
About fifteen years ago I was so bogged down at work and at home. I felt like I hadn't given God any time in prayer, it was quick time prayer. More like I need to pray, so just a couple of lines will do for now, prayer.
Then one morning when I stepped into the shower, I just started praying. It was alone time between God and me. I put a handfull of shampoo in my hair and started lathering up. The more I worked my fingers into my hair the more I prayed. I dabbed a small amount of conditioner on the palm of my hand and ran it through my hair. By the time I finished with my shower my hair had been washed along with other parts, but the best feeling I had was a feeling of peace.
God has said to go into your inner most room and pray. Pray without ceasing. You are giving Him your full attention, no television,phone, ipod, or radio for back ground effect. Quiet, one on one with the Father.
Sometimes my shower time lasts longer than it should, but like the speaker, after my prayer time I'm inspired by His silent urging. Something more to write about. Another phrase or single word to elaborate on.
Dear Lord I thank you for my quiet time with you. I pray that others will think of where they can have their quiet time with You too. Amen.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
HEALTH
Jeremiah 30:17 NAS
For I will restore you to health and I will heal you of your wounds, declares the Lord.
It's been a long haul but my sister-in-law lost her battle with cancer this past week. She has had many health problems through out her life but about fifteen years ago she started the battle of her life.
She was diagnosed with breast cancer, went through the chemo and radiation like so many other women. Right after she went through her ordeal, her husband was diagnosed with colon cancer. She was at his side through out his battle, his treatment, and then his ultimate death seven years ago, at the age of fifty three.
No sooner had she laid him to rest when she was diagnosed with the breast cancer again. Another round of chemo and radiation and the doctor said the cancer was in remission for the second time.
Just one month ago she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. The family started making their plans to be at her bedside. She was gone before I could say my good bye.
At her funeral I heard so many people praise her ability to face death with grace, and to put everyone else at ease throughout it all. She was able to laugh at herself even during the pain and suffering.
God did not say our life here on earth is going to be easy. Our rewards are in heaven with Him. It's how we live our life during our hardships that allows others to see God's grace through us.
Dear Heavenly Father I praise You for Your love and for always being there for me. Amen.
For I will restore you to health and I will heal you of your wounds, declares the Lord.
It's been a long haul but my sister-in-law lost her battle with cancer this past week. She has had many health problems through out her life but about fifteen years ago she started the battle of her life.
She was diagnosed with breast cancer, went through the chemo and radiation like so many other women. Right after she went through her ordeal, her husband was diagnosed with colon cancer. She was at his side through out his battle, his treatment, and then his ultimate death seven years ago, at the age of fifty three.
No sooner had she laid him to rest when she was diagnosed with the breast cancer again. Another round of chemo and radiation and the doctor said the cancer was in remission for the second time.
Just one month ago she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. The family started making their plans to be at her bedside. She was gone before I could say my good bye.
At her funeral I heard so many people praise her ability to face death with grace, and to put everyone else at ease throughout it all. She was able to laugh at herself even during the pain and suffering.
God did not say our life here on earth is going to be easy. Our rewards are in heaven with Him. It's how we live our life during our hardships that allows others to see God's grace through us.
Dear Heavenly Father I praise You for Your love and for always being there for me. Amen.
Friday, July 23, 2010
LOVE
Proverbs 10:12 NAS
Hatred stirs up strife. But love covers all transgressions.
I was cleaning out a stack of old business cards and ran across some cards I purchased at a Christian book store. You know the ones I'm talking about, the kind you hand out in passing, that have a verse on it, or says Happy Birthday, etc. One caught my attention, Love wasn't put in your heart to stay--love isn't love---till you give it away.
Every day someone says. "I love that dress." Or "Don't you just love it?" We tend to throw the word love around like it was everyday slang. Love has a deeper meaning.
Love that has withered the storm of a long marriage, love for your children, love for your parents, love for your neighbor, and most of all love for God. God loved us so much that He gave us His all. His only son died on the cross for our sins. How much more are we willing to give?
In Luke 6:27 it says to love your enemies, do good to those who hate you. James 2:8 says you shall love your neighbor as yourself. Ecclesiastes 3:8 says there is a time to love and a time to hate.
Like the poem says love is nothing until you give it away. Love bottled up drowns inside you. When someone wrongs you pray for that person instead of wishing something bad on them. When you let go of anger and hurt you benefit. You are set free. That other person may never know you prayed for them but our all knowing God knows. He knows what is in your heart.
Dear God thank you for loving me and giving me the ability to love others through my prayers to You. Thank you for setting me free. Amen.
Hatred stirs up strife. But love covers all transgressions.
I was cleaning out a stack of old business cards and ran across some cards I purchased at a Christian book store. You know the ones I'm talking about, the kind you hand out in passing, that have a verse on it, or says Happy Birthday, etc. One caught my attention, Love wasn't put in your heart to stay--love isn't love---till you give it away.
Every day someone says. "I love that dress." Or "Don't you just love it?" We tend to throw the word love around like it was everyday slang. Love has a deeper meaning.
Love that has withered the storm of a long marriage, love for your children, love for your parents, love for your neighbor, and most of all love for God. God loved us so much that He gave us His all. His only son died on the cross for our sins. How much more are we willing to give?
In Luke 6:27 it says to love your enemies, do good to those who hate you. James 2:8 says you shall love your neighbor as yourself. Ecclesiastes 3:8 says there is a time to love and a time to hate.
Like the poem says love is nothing until you give it away. Love bottled up drowns inside you. When someone wrongs you pray for that person instead of wishing something bad on them. When you let go of anger and hurt you benefit. You are set free. That other person may never know you prayed for them but our all knowing God knows. He knows what is in your heart.
Dear God thank you for loving me and giving me the ability to love others through my prayers to You. Thank you for setting me free. Amen.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
God's Wonders
Joel 2:30 NAS
And I will display wonders in the sky and on the earth. Blood, fire, and columns of smoke.
Last week I accompanied my husband to Tampa so he could attend a conference. I thought I would take some time off, look around, or do a little writing. We boarded the plane around noon and we were off. It was beautiful flying weather. Like a child I had a window seat. Our captain came on the speaker and said he was taking the shortest route, over the gulf. We may get to see the oil spill.
I watched the tiny specks dotting the ocean below us and scanned the horizon to see if I could make out anything. All I could see was water, very little shore line. It was a four hour flight and about two and half hours into it the captain announced to the left of the aircraft was the oil rig with flames lifting to the sky. There was about ten or more ships anchored around the rig helping to vacuum the oil before it had a chance to drift closer to shore.
I sat back and looked out over the wing and saw clouds, big billowy clouds, like they wanted to gather up steam and become storm clouds. As a child I would lay on the ground and point out dogs, cats, old men, and even giant mushrooms in the each cloud. Then watch as they exploded and drifted into different shapes.
A tune started running through my mind 'Somewhere over the rainbow, bluebirds fly'. I doubt bluebirds were flying this high but I did see large birds below us a few times. Mesmerized by the clouds and sky I looked overhead and the sky gave way to dark blue and continued into blackness. The blackness of outer space.
I looked below at the water then raised my gaze to the horizon where the same color meets each other. How does the pilot know we are not flying upside down? How do our astronauts know which way is up or which way is down when they are so far out in space?
Our God is an amazing God. He knew what he was doing when He made the earth, sun, stars, and the moon. He was even more amazing when he created man and woman. How fine tuned and intricate we are.
Gracious Father You are truly an awesome God. I cannot fathom how You fine tuned the most minute detail of the universe and man. Thank you Lord for my wonderful life. Amen.
And I will display wonders in the sky and on the earth. Blood, fire, and columns of smoke.
Last week I accompanied my husband to Tampa so he could attend a conference. I thought I would take some time off, look around, or do a little writing. We boarded the plane around noon and we were off. It was beautiful flying weather. Like a child I had a window seat. Our captain came on the speaker and said he was taking the shortest route, over the gulf. We may get to see the oil spill.
I watched the tiny specks dotting the ocean below us and scanned the horizon to see if I could make out anything. All I could see was water, very little shore line. It was a four hour flight and about two and half hours into it the captain announced to the left of the aircraft was the oil rig with flames lifting to the sky. There was about ten or more ships anchored around the rig helping to vacuum the oil before it had a chance to drift closer to shore.
I sat back and looked out over the wing and saw clouds, big billowy clouds, like they wanted to gather up steam and become storm clouds. As a child I would lay on the ground and point out dogs, cats, old men, and even giant mushrooms in the each cloud. Then watch as they exploded and drifted into different shapes.
A tune started running through my mind 'Somewhere over the rainbow, bluebirds fly'. I doubt bluebirds were flying this high but I did see large birds below us a few times. Mesmerized by the clouds and sky I looked overhead and the sky gave way to dark blue and continued into blackness. The blackness of outer space.
I looked below at the water then raised my gaze to the horizon where the same color meets each other. How does the pilot know we are not flying upside down? How do our astronauts know which way is up or which way is down when they are so far out in space?
Our God is an amazing God. He knew what he was doing when He made the earth, sun, stars, and the moon. He was even more amazing when he created man and woman. How fine tuned and intricate we are.
Gracious Father You are truly an awesome God. I cannot fathom how You fine tuned the most minute detail of the universe and man. Thank you Lord for my wonderful life. Amen.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
PRAISE
Psalm 89:5 NAS
And the heavens will praise Thy wonders, O Lord: Thy faithfulness also in the assembly of the holy ones.
I've searched and searched my mind on what I wanted to write about today and I've been led to praise Him. Praise Him for all He has done in my life, my children's lives, and for who He is and what He will do in everyones lives. Our God is an awesome God.
HE IS
He is the sun and the moon
the bright evening star
He is the thunder and the lightening
the fresh smelling rain
He is the mighty hurricane, tornado and earthquake
the glistening new falling snow
Listen to Him
He is a baby's cry
A bird singing
the new rose that blooms
He is the roar of the lion
the sting of a bee
the bite of a snake
Listen to Him
He is the touch of a baby's hand
the air that you breathe
the wind in the trees
sounds of a fast moving stream
Be silent and listen
HE IS
Gracious Heavenly Father thank you for every breathe I take, for every new day You give me, and for all You do in my life. Amen.
And the heavens will praise Thy wonders, O Lord: Thy faithfulness also in the assembly of the holy ones.
I've searched and searched my mind on what I wanted to write about today and I've been led to praise Him. Praise Him for all He has done in my life, my children's lives, and for who He is and what He will do in everyones lives. Our God is an awesome God.
HE IS
He is the sun and the moon
the bright evening star
He is the thunder and the lightening
the fresh smelling rain
He is the mighty hurricane, tornado and earthquake
the glistening new falling snow
Listen to Him
He is a baby's cry
A bird singing
the new rose that blooms
He is the roar of the lion
the sting of a bee
the bite of a snake
Listen to Him
He is the touch of a baby's hand
the air that you breathe
the wind in the trees
sounds of a fast moving stream
Be silent and listen
HE IS
Gracious Heavenly Father thank you for every breathe I take, for every new day You give me, and for all You do in my life. Amen.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Bitterness
Ephesians 4:31 NAS
Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.
Recently I chatted with a friend about her family. I asked how her father was doing these days and she replied. "Please do not speak his name around me ever again."
I was surprised at her comment and asked why did she feel this way. Surely it couldn't be that bad where she didn't want his name spoken around her. She went on to tell me about the lies, name calling, and the gossip he was spreading about her and her family.
Later I spoke with her brother and he told me the same story but added a bit more that I was unaware of. She was still holding a grudge against her father for giving her up when she was a teen ager. It seems when her parents divorced and her mother remarried, her father gave her up for adoption. She still carries that scar and has let it fester over the years.
When I heard that I called and spoke to her about how she is letting the bitterness take over her life. Allowing the bitteness to take control will end up taking her down to the lowest abyss possible. When that happens your health goes astray, you start to doubt everyone around you. Will they be there when I need them or will they throw me away like my father did? I prayed with her but now it is up to her to give it over to the Lord and let Him be the guide in her life.
No matter what someone else has done to you, it is far better to let God take control, than let it destroy your life. This is hard because we are only human and our first response is to get even or wish something bad on that individual.
Dear Heavenly Father I pray for my friend that she finds peace with the Lord and lets go of all the bitterness against her father. To let the Lord handle her life, He knows what is best for her. Amen.
Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.
Recently I chatted with a friend about her family. I asked how her father was doing these days and she replied. "Please do not speak his name around me ever again."
I was surprised at her comment and asked why did she feel this way. Surely it couldn't be that bad where she didn't want his name spoken around her. She went on to tell me about the lies, name calling, and the gossip he was spreading about her and her family.
Later I spoke with her brother and he told me the same story but added a bit more that I was unaware of. She was still holding a grudge against her father for giving her up when she was a teen ager. It seems when her parents divorced and her mother remarried, her father gave her up for adoption. She still carries that scar and has let it fester over the years.
When I heard that I called and spoke to her about how she is letting the bitterness take over her life. Allowing the bitteness to take control will end up taking her down to the lowest abyss possible. When that happens your health goes astray, you start to doubt everyone around you. Will they be there when I need them or will they throw me away like my father did? I prayed with her but now it is up to her to give it over to the Lord and let Him be the guide in her life.
No matter what someone else has done to you, it is far better to let God take control, than let it destroy your life. This is hard because we are only human and our first response is to get even or wish something bad on that individual.
Dear Heavenly Father I pray for my friend that she finds peace with the Lord and lets go of all the bitterness against her father. To let the Lord handle her life, He knows what is best for her. Amen.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Defraud
Leviticus 19:13 NIV
Do not defraud your neighbor or rob him. Do not hold back the wages of a hired man overnight.
Recently I heard from a friend that she never wanted her father's name to be spoken around her. As far as she and her family were concerned her father no longer existed. These were harsh words spoken about a family that once seemed close. I knew the father she was talking about. I remember thinking years ago that someday his shady deals would come back to haunt him. Now it looks like this has happened.
Almost everyone knows someone, or has heard of someone, that has defrauded a business associate, friend, or perhaps a family member. It's bad enough when a person defrauds a stranger but when it comes to defrauding a family member it is heart breaking. You are supposed to be able to trust a family member, especially your father.
Your father held your hand and steadied you as you learned to take your first steps. He held on to the back of the bicycle as you learned to ride without the training wheels. Remember him sitting next to you as you learned to drive? He was the calm one, never biting his nails or yelling when you forgot to pop the clutch when you changed gears.
Now, whatever has transpired in his life has affected his family. I cannot even imagine never having any communication with my children ever again. My heart would break if my children didn't want to have anything to do with me. This is how God feels when we turn our backs on Him. His heart breaks when we say we can live without Him.
I, for one, never want to loose my closeness with the Heavenly Father. Without Him I am nothing. I feel His arms around me every day and know I am taken care of, safe and sound. The days I do not feel His arms around me are the days I wake up and don't start out with a prayer for guidance. My God will never defraud me, let me down, only lift me up.
Dear Father I pray that everyone will ask You to be their Father. I know that You will always be there for them. Amen.
Do not defraud your neighbor or rob him. Do not hold back the wages of a hired man overnight.
Recently I heard from a friend that she never wanted her father's name to be spoken around her. As far as she and her family were concerned her father no longer existed. These were harsh words spoken about a family that once seemed close. I knew the father she was talking about. I remember thinking years ago that someday his shady deals would come back to haunt him. Now it looks like this has happened.
Almost everyone knows someone, or has heard of someone, that has defrauded a business associate, friend, or perhaps a family member. It's bad enough when a person defrauds a stranger but when it comes to defrauding a family member it is heart breaking. You are supposed to be able to trust a family member, especially your father.
Your father held your hand and steadied you as you learned to take your first steps. He held on to the back of the bicycle as you learned to ride without the training wheels. Remember him sitting next to you as you learned to drive? He was the calm one, never biting his nails or yelling when you forgot to pop the clutch when you changed gears.
Now, whatever has transpired in his life has affected his family. I cannot even imagine never having any communication with my children ever again. My heart would break if my children didn't want to have anything to do with me. This is how God feels when we turn our backs on Him. His heart breaks when we say we can live without Him.
I, for one, never want to loose my closeness with the Heavenly Father. Without Him I am nothing. I feel His arms around me every day and know I am taken care of, safe and sound. The days I do not feel His arms around me are the days I wake up and don't start out with a prayer for guidance. My God will never defraud me, let me down, only lift me up.
Dear Father I pray that everyone will ask You to be their Father. I know that You will always be there for them. Amen.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Deeds
Psalms 66:5 NIV
Come and see what God has done, how awesome His works in man's behalf.
I'm sitting in my hotel room overlooking the channel in Tampa. Lining the channel are boats of all sizes and shapes along with the tall sailing ships of the seas. The sailing ships, with their masts blowing in the wind, sending them out across the oceans. Man, fitting together the parts, that make the engines, to power the smaller boats, to set sights far out into the waters. How magnificent is man's works.
Someone had the vision of making a water way for ships, to be able to dock along side the hotels, that tower over the water. You can walk outside the hotel and get into your boat and head out to open water.
How much more is God's grand works. He made the earth and the sun, so we can sit outside and bake our skin until it is a golden brown. He made the moon and stars so you and I can star gaze and marvel at how big the moon looks at certain times of the month. He put the water on the earth so we can swim, water ski, fish, and take cruises. The flowers and trees with their lingering fragrances were put in strategic places to give us shade and resources to build our homes.
I could go on and on but I think you get the picture. Our Heavenly Father is our source for our very existence. God loved us so much He gave us so much. He only asks for our love and obedience in return.
Dear Heavenly Father thank you for all You have given me each day. I love You Lord. Amen.
Come and see what God has done, how awesome His works in man's behalf.
I'm sitting in my hotel room overlooking the channel in Tampa. Lining the channel are boats of all sizes and shapes along with the tall sailing ships of the seas. The sailing ships, with their masts blowing in the wind, sending them out across the oceans. Man, fitting together the parts, that make the engines, to power the smaller boats, to set sights far out into the waters. How magnificent is man's works.
Someone had the vision of making a water way for ships, to be able to dock along side the hotels, that tower over the water. You can walk outside the hotel and get into your boat and head out to open water.
How much more is God's grand works. He made the earth and the sun, so we can sit outside and bake our skin until it is a golden brown. He made the moon and stars so you and I can star gaze and marvel at how big the moon looks at certain times of the month. He put the water on the earth so we can swim, water ski, fish, and take cruises. The flowers and trees with their lingering fragrances were put in strategic places to give us shade and resources to build our homes.
I could go on and on but I think you get the picture. Our Heavenly Father is our source for our very existence. God loved us so much He gave us so much. He only asks for our love and obedience in return.
Dear Heavenly Father thank you for all You have given me each day. I love You Lord. Amen.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Sisters
Matthew 12:50 NAS
For whoever does the will of My Father who is in heaven, he is My brother and sister and mother.
Our family has never been a close knit group. I am the oldest with three sisters and two brothers. I married at sixteen and moved away so that in its self meant breaking away from family gatherings. On top of that, my mother divorced, and moved taking my brothers and sisters even farther away from where they were living.
Throughout the years I've tried to keep in touch, but with my growing family, and every day life that was hard to do. It was years before I started going home for visits, but even then, it was hard to get everyone together. Mom was always delighted when we were all home enjoying each other's company.
Then about fifteen years ago we had a family reunion, which didn't turn out very well. Since I was the oldest they all looked to me to plan everything, which I must say, I did not do a very good job of. Everyone went their own way. Our last night together was good, but at times, was strained. I probably had a hand in that myself. I am more to blame because I know better.
My brother behind me and I are the closest and when I told him it would be a very long time before I got together with my sisters again. He was the sensible one and said. "You shouldn't feel that way. You never know."
Since then my little brother has passed away and now his wife has been sent home with pancreatic cancer. They said there was nothing more they can do for her.
I've done a lot of thinking since I found out her time on earth has been shortened. We do not know when our Father will call us to our eternal home. Our earthly home is only temporary.
My heart has softened I guess because I know I need to mend fences with my sisters when I go home. I know that is what God wants me to do, but it's only with His love and guidance that I will be able to do it.
Dear Father I pray for your guidance with my sisters, to forget all hurts and frivolous things that have happened. I pray these things in Jesus Name. Amen.
For whoever does the will of My Father who is in heaven, he is My brother and sister and mother.
Our family has never been a close knit group. I am the oldest with three sisters and two brothers. I married at sixteen and moved away so that in its self meant breaking away from family gatherings. On top of that, my mother divorced, and moved taking my brothers and sisters even farther away from where they were living.
Throughout the years I've tried to keep in touch, but with my growing family, and every day life that was hard to do. It was years before I started going home for visits, but even then, it was hard to get everyone together. Mom was always delighted when we were all home enjoying each other's company.
Then about fifteen years ago we had a family reunion, which didn't turn out very well. Since I was the oldest they all looked to me to plan everything, which I must say, I did not do a very good job of. Everyone went their own way. Our last night together was good, but at times, was strained. I probably had a hand in that myself. I am more to blame because I know better.
My brother behind me and I are the closest and when I told him it would be a very long time before I got together with my sisters again. He was the sensible one and said. "You shouldn't feel that way. You never know."
Since then my little brother has passed away and now his wife has been sent home with pancreatic cancer. They said there was nothing more they can do for her.
I've done a lot of thinking since I found out her time on earth has been shortened. We do not know when our Father will call us to our eternal home. Our earthly home is only temporary.
My heart has softened I guess because I know I need to mend fences with my sisters when I go home. I know that is what God wants me to do, but it's only with His love and guidance that I will be able to do it.
Dear Father I pray for your guidance with my sisters, to forget all hurts and frivolous things that have happened. I pray these things in Jesus Name. Amen.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Darkness
Psalms 107:14 NAS
He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and broke their bands apart.
A few days ago I was talking to a friend. She was telling me about a friend of hers that was going through a period of darkness in her life. He husband had been in Iraq and upon his return she said he had changed. They started to have martial problems and separated.
My grandson also was in Iraq. He was only nineteen when he was sent over there. Upon his return his marriage fell apart and he found himself divorced. He was living in deep darkness.
We cannot fathom what our men are going though, what they see, or how they feel during the throes of war. The suffering, turmoil, and stress of everyday dodging bullets, bombs, or watching their comrade fall before their eyes. Like my husband says, "I'm a fixer. If I can't fix it I get frustrated."
War is something that can't be fixed over night. There are so many hindrances to overcome. This can put some people into deep despair leading into an even deeper darkness. They feel there is no way out. Some have even taken their lives because they'd fallen so far into a dark hole that they didn't know how to get out.
This darkness I'm talking about is not only for our men at war, but for anyone going through a divorce, lost a loved one, or even been in an accident. I felt the darkness while going through a divorce, but was renewed through God's love for me.
In my darkest hour I reached for my Bible and started reading. His words comforted me, and I felt restored. Now, whenever I feel down and not able to fix a situation, my Bible is opened to where God is leading.
Father God I pray for everyone that is going through a rough period in their life, a period that has over shadowed their lives and flung them in darkness. May Your Word lift them up into the light. Amen.
He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and broke their bands apart.
A few days ago I was talking to a friend. She was telling me about a friend of hers that was going through a period of darkness in her life. He husband had been in Iraq and upon his return she said he had changed. They started to have martial problems and separated.
My grandson also was in Iraq. He was only nineteen when he was sent over there. Upon his return his marriage fell apart and he found himself divorced. He was living in deep darkness.
We cannot fathom what our men are going though, what they see, or how they feel during the throes of war. The suffering, turmoil, and stress of everyday dodging bullets, bombs, or watching their comrade fall before their eyes. Like my husband says, "I'm a fixer. If I can't fix it I get frustrated."
War is something that can't be fixed over night. There are so many hindrances to overcome. This can put some people into deep despair leading into an even deeper darkness. They feel there is no way out. Some have even taken their lives because they'd fallen so far into a dark hole that they didn't know how to get out.
This darkness I'm talking about is not only for our men at war, but for anyone going through a divorce, lost a loved one, or even been in an accident. I felt the darkness while going through a divorce, but was renewed through God's love for me.
In my darkest hour I reached for my Bible and started reading. His words comforted me, and I felt restored. Now, whenever I feel down and not able to fix a situation, my Bible is opened to where God is leading.
Father God I pray for everyone that is going through a rough period in their life, a period that has over shadowed their lives and flung them in darkness. May Your Word lift them up into the light. Amen.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Genealogy
Hebrews 7:3 NAS
Without father, without mother, without genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life, but made like the Son of God, he abides a priest perpetually.
Last night I went to a genealogy group that just formed at our library. I wanted to see what they were doing, if it was a beginners group, and to see if some of my old friends would be there. Since genealogy is my passion I wanted to know if someone else found a better web site or a new way to find that elusive relative.
Well I did make new friends and it was sort of a beginners group. Some people had been tracing their lineage for quite a few years and some were beginners. The ones that had been at it for awhile told of how they got to that point. One gentleman said he had his DNA tested but he wasn't sure if it's helped him or not. He was still having trouble figuring out the markers, etc. I told him I had my DNA tested also, and I too, was confused on where I was in the big picture.
It's exciting when you find that relative you've been searching for. You want to shout it out to everyone. I've caught myself sitting at the computer throwing my hands in the air and shouting "I found him!"
Think of how much more God is excited when another child of His has accepted His grace and life everlasting. That thought is beyond my wildest dreams. I cannot grasp His jubilant reaction, His angels singing, or even the brightest sunlight shinning down on His children.
Gracious Heavenly Father thank you for the love You've given me just for being Your child. Amen.
Without father, without mother, without genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life, but made like the Son of God, he abides a priest perpetually.
Last night I went to a genealogy group that just formed at our library. I wanted to see what they were doing, if it was a beginners group, and to see if some of my old friends would be there. Since genealogy is my passion I wanted to know if someone else found a better web site or a new way to find that elusive relative.
Well I did make new friends and it was sort of a beginners group. Some people had been tracing their lineage for quite a few years and some were beginners. The ones that had been at it for awhile told of how they got to that point. One gentleman said he had his DNA tested but he wasn't sure if it's helped him or not. He was still having trouble figuring out the markers, etc. I told him I had my DNA tested also, and I too, was confused on where I was in the big picture.
It's exciting when you find that relative you've been searching for. You want to shout it out to everyone. I've caught myself sitting at the computer throwing my hands in the air and shouting "I found him!"
Think of how much more God is excited when another child of His has accepted His grace and life everlasting. That thought is beyond my wildest dreams. I cannot grasp His jubilant reaction, His angels singing, or even the brightest sunlight shinning down on His children.
Gracious Heavenly Father thank you for the love You've given me just for being Your child. Amen.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Cattle
Psalm 50:10 NAS
For every beast of the forest is Mine, the cattle on a thousand hills.
Eighteen years ago I had the opportunity to see Lou Lou Roman in concert at a church in town. Maybe you don't know who Lou Lou Roman is but she graced the stage on the old television program Hee Haw. Once in awhile she was asked to sing gospel music. Her full, rich, voice caressed each word when she praised God.
After giving her testimony she sang a song she wrote. I was so impressed with the words I had to buy the cassette and I played it over and over again until I was able to write all the words down. I keep it in my address book and read it from time to time to remind me that all my worldly treasures are only mine for a little while, they belong to my Heavenly Father. He loves me so much He gives these treasures to me to enjoy in my earthly life.
She talks about praying, thank you for Your family, mercy and love, but on to important things. then she continues asking, give me this and give me that. Give me wealth, keep me healthy, I need the things I think I've missed.
We forget that all we have belongs to God. From the cattle on a thousand hills to the tiny hummingbird I see perched on the feeder outside my window. We can build a fortune here on earth but in the end we cannot take it with us when we pass on. It is God's gift to us but what we do with it is our responsibility. To share God's gift with others should be our aspiration.
Heavenly Father I pray I never take advantage of all You do for me. Just to wake up each day and breathe the air, to hear the birds sing, or see the trees. Thank You Lord. Amen.
For every beast of the forest is Mine, the cattle on a thousand hills.
Eighteen years ago I had the opportunity to see Lou Lou Roman in concert at a church in town. Maybe you don't know who Lou Lou Roman is but she graced the stage on the old television program Hee Haw. Once in awhile she was asked to sing gospel music. Her full, rich, voice caressed each word when she praised God.
After giving her testimony she sang a song she wrote. I was so impressed with the words I had to buy the cassette and I played it over and over again until I was able to write all the words down. I keep it in my address book and read it from time to time to remind me that all my worldly treasures are only mine for a little while, they belong to my Heavenly Father. He loves me so much He gives these treasures to me to enjoy in my earthly life.
She talks about praying, thank you for Your family, mercy and love, but on to important things. then she continues asking, give me this and give me that. Give me wealth, keep me healthy, I need the things I think I've missed.
We forget that all we have belongs to God. From the cattle on a thousand hills to the tiny hummingbird I see perched on the feeder outside my window. We can build a fortune here on earth but in the end we cannot take it with us when we pass on. It is God's gift to us but what we do with it is our responsibility. To share God's gift with others should be our aspiration.
Heavenly Father I pray I never take advantage of all You do for me. Just to wake up each day and breathe the air, to hear the birds sing, or see the trees. Thank You Lord. Amen.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Comfort
II Corinthians 7:4 NAS
Great is my confidence in you, great is my boasting on your behalf; I am filled with comfort, I am overflowing with joy in all our affliction.
Seven years ago my little brother passed away. He fought the good fight until the colon cancer became too much and over took his weakened body. I sat at his side for a week before he died. His family and I celebrated his life while I was there with them. We set off fireworks to celebrate the 4th of July, fixed his favorite meals, and talked about old times.
I arrived home on Monday and the Lord took him home on Tuesday. I am comforted because I know I will see him again.
During the time of my brother's cancer my sister-in-law developed breast cancer. They both went through chemo and radiation together. She laid him to rest and just one year later her cancer returned. Again she went through the regime of radiation and chemo. Her hair fell out but grew back in very curly, but gray. We joked about her curly hair and she turned gray before I did. You see I'm ten years older than my brother and his wife.
In the past month my sister-in-law found out that she now has pancreatic cancer. She has refused treatment saying it's more than she can bear. She says she is ready. To watch their mother suffer, much like their father, is very hard on the children she leaves behind. Their love for Christ is sustaining them now like it did six years ago.
I tell you this story because it is not unique. I've seen families in my own church attending services just days after the loss of their loved ones. Their love for Christ sustains them. I know it's hard after loosing a loved one, and it's one day at a time, but each day with Jesus makes it easier. And the reassurance of seeing their loved one again gives them strength to go on. Our God comforts us in our times of loss and dispair. Praise God.
Gracious Father I pray that you comfort the family during their time of loss. Keep them in Your gentle hands and guide them each day. Amen.
Great is my confidence in you, great is my boasting on your behalf; I am filled with comfort, I am overflowing with joy in all our affliction.
Seven years ago my little brother passed away. He fought the good fight until the colon cancer became too much and over took his weakened body. I sat at his side for a week before he died. His family and I celebrated his life while I was there with them. We set off fireworks to celebrate the 4th of July, fixed his favorite meals, and talked about old times.
I arrived home on Monday and the Lord took him home on Tuesday. I am comforted because I know I will see him again.
During the time of my brother's cancer my sister-in-law developed breast cancer. They both went through chemo and radiation together. She laid him to rest and just one year later her cancer returned. Again she went through the regime of radiation and chemo. Her hair fell out but grew back in very curly, but gray. We joked about her curly hair and she turned gray before I did. You see I'm ten years older than my brother and his wife.
In the past month my sister-in-law found out that she now has pancreatic cancer. She has refused treatment saying it's more than she can bear. She says she is ready. To watch their mother suffer, much like their father, is very hard on the children she leaves behind. Their love for Christ is sustaining them now like it did six years ago.
I tell you this story because it is not unique. I've seen families in my own church attending services just days after the loss of their loved ones. Their love for Christ sustains them. I know it's hard after loosing a loved one, and it's one day at a time, but each day with Jesus makes it easier. And the reassurance of seeing their loved one again gives them strength to go on. Our God comforts us in our times of loss and dispair. Praise God.
Gracious Father I pray that you comfort the family during their time of loss. Keep them in Your gentle hands and guide them each day. Amen.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Best
Luke 15:22 NAS
The father said to his servants, "Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet.
When we go out for a job interview we put our best foot forward so to speak. We make sure our clothes are cleaned, pressed, shoes shined, and our hair is in place. Think about that first date you went on. You wanted to make an impression so you picked out the best restaurant, cleaned your car, and made sure your clothes were in tip top shape. No loose strings, stains, or tears. You might have even gone out and bought new clothes.
Aunt Hazel came to visit and we put out the best china, cleaned the house, and made her favorite dish for dinner. You might want to call this putting on the airs but don't we want to give her the best we have?
How much more are we to give to our Lord? Do we not owe Him our best? Like my mother used to say. "Don't do the job half way, go the extra mile, and do your best."
When God asks us to do something we should give it our best. Think of how your earthly father is gladdened in what you do then magnify it one hundred times over. That is how God delights in you giving your best.
Gracious Heavenly Father I pray I do my best in all I do for You. To glorify Your name Lord. Amen.
The father said to his servants, "Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet.
When we go out for a job interview we put our best foot forward so to speak. We make sure our clothes are cleaned, pressed, shoes shined, and our hair is in place. Think about that first date you went on. You wanted to make an impression so you picked out the best restaurant, cleaned your car, and made sure your clothes were in tip top shape. No loose strings, stains, or tears. You might have even gone out and bought new clothes.
Aunt Hazel came to visit and we put out the best china, cleaned the house, and made her favorite dish for dinner. You might want to call this putting on the airs but don't we want to give her the best we have?
How much more are we to give to our Lord? Do we not owe Him our best? Like my mother used to say. "Don't do the job half way, go the extra mile, and do your best."
When God asks us to do something we should give it our best. Think of how your earthly father is gladdened in what you do then magnify it one hundred times over. That is how God delights in you giving your best.
Gracious Heavenly Father I pray I do my best in all I do for You. To glorify Your name Lord. Amen.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Believe
Matthew 21:22 NAS
"And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you shall receive."
Believe.....this is a hard one. I believe and I have faith, but do I have enough faith to believe in what I ask for will be given?
This morning as I was mulling over what I wanted to write about, or what God wanted me to write about the word 'believe' kept coming to mind. I believe in myself, that I can do anything I set my mind to. I believe if I touch a hot stove I'm going to get burnt. I believe that if I keep writing I will become proficient in making my sentences speak with meaning and put the punctuation marks in the right places.
Many years ago when I was going through a rough time my prayers to God were if you do this for me, and I believed it would happen, then I would do that for You. I couldn't understand why my prayers weren't answered. I believed and I had faith.
As I grew in my knowledge of the Lord I understood why He didn't answer my prayers the way I wanted Him to. Like an earthly father our Heavenly Father knows what is best for us. We have to believe in His wisdom and His timing for our prayers to be answered, and in His way. How much better are His ways than ours.
Like a spoiled child I wanted things my way, and I wanted them then, not later. Now in my later years God has blessed me more than a hundred times over. Something I would never have seen years ago.
Heavenly Father please be patient with me when I pray for things. I believe they will be answered but they will be answered according to Your will and not mine. Thank you for the many blessings You have given me and my family. Amen.
"And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you shall receive."
Believe.....this is a hard one. I believe and I have faith, but do I have enough faith to believe in what I ask for will be given?
This morning as I was mulling over what I wanted to write about, or what God wanted me to write about the word 'believe' kept coming to mind. I believe in myself, that I can do anything I set my mind to. I believe if I touch a hot stove I'm going to get burnt. I believe that if I keep writing I will become proficient in making my sentences speak with meaning and put the punctuation marks in the right places.
Many years ago when I was going through a rough time my prayers to God were if you do this for me, and I believed it would happen, then I would do that for You. I couldn't understand why my prayers weren't answered. I believed and I had faith.
As I grew in my knowledge of the Lord I understood why He didn't answer my prayers the way I wanted Him to. Like an earthly father our Heavenly Father knows what is best for us. We have to believe in His wisdom and His timing for our prayers to be answered, and in His way. How much better are His ways than ours.
Like a spoiled child I wanted things my way, and I wanted them then, not later. Now in my later years God has blessed me more than a hundred times over. Something I would never have seen years ago.
Heavenly Father please be patient with me when I pray for things. I believe they will be answered but they will be answered according to Your will and not mine. Thank you for the many blessings You have given me and my family. Amen.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Boopma
Proverbs: 17:6 NAS
Grandchildren are the crown of old men. And the glory of sons is their fathers.
We were visiting my husband's aunt Eleanor in Missouri after her husbands death. I could sit for hours and listen to her Irish brogue as she told stories of their life together. It was late when she said. "I've got to tell you the story on how George became known as 'Boompa'."
When their daughter found out she was pregnant she announced to her mother. "I want Dad's grandchildren to call him Boompa. Eleanor said she fumbeled for words. Who ever heard of a grandfather being called Boompa? That's silly she told her daughter.
Nevertheless when their first grandchild was old enough he began calling George Boompa. As the years rolled on each grandchild after that called him Boompa too.
When the grandson graduated from high school he walked out on stage, received his diploma, then turned around with his diploma held over his head, and yelled. "For you Boompa."
There were giggles throughout the auditorium but when Eleanor looked at George's face he was smiling from ear to ear. She said. "I guess that wasn't such a bad name for him after all."
Our Heavenly Father loves us just as much or more than we love our children and grandchildren. He loves it when we call Him Abba, Jehovah, El Shaddai, El Elyon, Elohim, El Olam, Johovah-nissi, Jehoval-jireh, Jehovah-rapha, Jehovah-raah, Yahweh, or Adonai. These names are endearing to His ears.
Most Gracious Heavenly Father I thank You for all You do in my life, the blessings You bestow upon me and my loved ones. I bow down before You. Thank you El Elyon. Amen.
Grandchildren are the crown of old men. And the glory of sons is their fathers.
We were visiting my husband's aunt Eleanor in Missouri after her husbands death. I could sit for hours and listen to her Irish brogue as she told stories of their life together. It was late when she said. "I've got to tell you the story on how George became known as 'Boompa'."
When their daughter found out she was pregnant she announced to her mother. "I want Dad's grandchildren to call him Boompa. Eleanor said she fumbeled for words. Who ever heard of a grandfather being called Boompa? That's silly she told her daughter.
Nevertheless when their first grandchild was old enough he began calling George Boompa. As the years rolled on each grandchild after that called him Boompa too.
When the grandson graduated from high school he walked out on stage, received his diploma, then turned around with his diploma held over his head, and yelled. "For you Boompa."
There were giggles throughout the auditorium but when Eleanor looked at George's face he was smiling from ear to ear. She said. "I guess that wasn't such a bad name for him after all."
Our Heavenly Father loves us just as much or more than we love our children and grandchildren. He loves it when we call Him Abba, Jehovah, El Shaddai, El Elyon, Elohim, El Olam, Johovah-nissi, Jehoval-jireh, Jehovah-rapha, Jehovah-raah, Yahweh, or Adonai. These names are endearing to His ears.
Most Gracious Heavenly Father I thank You for all You do in my life, the blessings You bestow upon me and my loved ones. I bow down before You. Thank you El Elyon. Amen.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Busybodies
II Thessalonians 3:11-12 NAS
For we hear that some among you are leading an undisciplined life, doing no work at all, but acting like busybodies. Now such persons we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ to work in quiet fashion and eat their own bread.
This may seem an odd scripture for today but after talking with a friend I thought this maybe a good time to address the life of a busybody. My friend proceeded to tell me of her mother-in-law and her daughter. Both have been gossiping about each other, they don't want to be in the same house together, and the mother-in-law went so far as to say please don't let my daughter be at my funeral. How sad that their lives have grown so much apart that they cannot and will not be referred to in the same sentence.
Hearing this brought back memories of my own life. My children were small at the time and I heard a friend repeat gossip she'd heard about me. I asked where she had heard such a thing and after much hesitation she told me who it was. I was heartbroken when she told me it was my best friend of fifteen years. We had gone to high school together, been witnesses for each other when we married, and were there for each other at the birth of our first child.
I prayed for God to guard my tongue before I confronted her. Her reply was all the things she had been going through she said I was doing. There was no reasoning with her. I finally said. "You should probably check your own back yard before you go accusing others."
Where and how does gossip start? A misspoken word taken in the wrong context or perhaps something in your own life is not going right and it's easier to blame others. Whatever the reason we are to seek God's guidance before we speak. We are to lift each other up.
Dear Heavenly Father I pray for Your guidance to guard my tongue when I speak to others and to lift them in prayer. Amen.
For we hear that some among you are leading an undisciplined life, doing no work at all, but acting like busybodies. Now such persons we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ to work in quiet fashion and eat their own bread.
This may seem an odd scripture for today but after talking with a friend I thought this maybe a good time to address the life of a busybody. My friend proceeded to tell me of her mother-in-law and her daughter. Both have been gossiping about each other, they don't want to be in the same house together, and the mother-in-law went so far as to say please don't let my daughter be at my funeral. How sad that their lives have grown so much apart that they cannot and will not be referred to in the same sentence.
Hearing this brought back memories of my own life. My children were small at the time and I heard a friend repeat gossip she'd heard about me. I asked where she had heard such a thing and after much hesitation she told me who it was. I was heartbroken when she told me it was my best friend of fifteen years. We had gone to high school together, been witnesses for each other when we married, and were there for each other at the birth of our first child.
I prayed for God to guard my tongue before I confronted her. Her reply was all the things she had been going through she said I was doing. There was no reasoning with her. I finally said. "You should probably check your own back yard before you go accusing others."
Where and how does gossip start? A misspoken word taken in the wrong context or perhaps something in your own life is not going right and it's easier to blame others. Whatever the reason we are to seek God's guidance before we speak. We are to lift each other up.
Dear Heavenly Father I pray for Your guidance to guard my tongue when I speak to others and to lift them in prayer. Amen.
Monday, June 28, 2010
PAIN
Lamentations 1:12 NAS
"Is" it nothing to all you who pass this way? Look and see if there is any pain like my pain which was severely dealt out to me. Which the Lord inflicted on the day of His fierce anger.
Television ads display Tylenol, aspirin, and all the other pain remedies almost every fifteen minutes on some channel you are watching. For arthritis sufferers, migranes, and just about any other ailment there is the old saying. "Take this pill and call me in the morning if the pain hasn't gone away."
I remember sitting next to my mother and watching the tears roll down her cheeks. When I asked her if she was alright, her reply was. "Oh honey the pain is so bad it hurts to move." She had osteoarthritis. Her once long, beautiful, fingers were now crippled to the point she could no longer wear her rings. Her toes were bent so much she couldn't wear shoes, but padded along in her houseslippers everywhere.
Since reaching my sixty fifth birthday I too have suffered from arthritis along with my brother, who has had it since he turned fifty. Each morning when I arise I have to do stretching exercises to get my body going. Like so many other sufferers I too take pain medications. I hobble now when I walk unlike the spry gait I once had in my twenties.
When I start to complain about my pain I've had to stop myself. My Jesus suffered much more pain on the cross than I could have ever endured. He did it for me and for you. He took my sin on His shoulders so I could spend eternity with Him. By God's Grace I am saved through the blood of Jesus Christ.
Merciful Father I thank You for Your son Jesus who died for my sins. Forgive me for complaining for my small aches and pains, they are nothing of His pain He suffered for me. Amen.
"Is" it nothing to all you who pass this way? Look and see if there is any pain like my pain which was severely dealt out to me. Which the Lord inflicted on the day of His fierce anger.
Television ads display Tylenol, aspirin, and all the other pain remedies almost every fifteen minutes on some channel you are watching. For arthritis sufferers, migranes, and just about any other ailment there is the old saying. "Take this pill and call me in the morning if the pain hasn't gone away."
I remember sitting next to my mother and watching the tears roll down her cheeks. When I asked her if she was alright, her reply was. "Oh honey the pain is so bad it hurts to move." She had osteoarthritis. Her once long, beautiful, fingers were now crippled to the point she could no longer wear her rings. Her toes were bent so much she couldn't wear shoes, but padded along in her houseslippers everywhere.
Since reaching my sixty fifth birthday I too have suffered from arthritis along with my brother, who has had it since he turned fifty. Each morning when I arise I have to do stretching exercises to get my body going. Like so many other sufferers I too take pain medications. I hobble now when I walk unlike the spry gait I once had in my twenties.
When I start to complain about my pain I've had to stop myself. My Jesus suffered much more pain on the cross than I could have ever endured. He did it for me and for you. He took my sin on His shoulders so I could spend eternity with Him. By God's Grace I am saved through the blood of Jesus Christ.
Merciful Father I thank You for Your son Jesus who died for my sins. Forgive me for complaining for my small aches and pains, they are nothing of His pain He suffered for me. Amen.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Acquire Wisdom
Proverbs 4:5 NAS
"Acquire wisom!" Acquire understanding! Do not forget, nor turn away from the words of my mouth.
This morning while my daughter and I were at the pool for our workout we were reflecting of years ago when she would go visit her siblings during the summer. Then the subject turned to one of her sisters, the more rebelious one, and why didn't I stop her when she moved out at thirteen. "Mom did you kick her out or did she move out? I was too young to remember."
How do you tell your daughter at some point you have to let go. I began. "If I'd tried to stop her she would have run away. I might not have ever seen her again. If I let her go I could still keep an eye on her. Watch her as she went about. I didn't agree with her life style but in my heart I knew she would come home. It took six months for her to realize she'd made a mistake, and I know it had to be hard for her to admit she was wrong and move back home."
Like so many other parents we want to shield our children of the hurts and misfortunes that we endured. To give them the best life we can, a life of roses, without the thorns. Sometimes that's hard even when you have to let go so they can make their own mistakes like you did.
I am thankful that my Lord let me go through the calamities I did to acquire the wisdom He wanted me to have. There were times I felt all alone with no one to turn to. No one to talk to and comfort me. When I was at my lowest point God was with me, He held me in His hands, and shielded me from harm. We can only pray that He is with our children as they go out into the world to find their own wisdom.
Gracious Heavenly Father watch over our children, shield and protect them as they go out and find their way in life. Amen.
"Acquire wisom!" Acquire understanding! Do not forget, nor turn away from the words of my mouth.
This morning while my daughter and I were at the pool for our workout we were reflecting of years ago when she would go visit her siblings during the summer. Then the subject turned to one of her sisters, the more rebelious one, and why didn't I stop her when she moved out at thirteen. "Mom did you kick her out or did she move out? I was too young to remember."
How do you tell your daughter at some point you have to let go. I began. "If I'd tried to stop her she would have run away. I might not have ever seen her again. If I let her go I could still keep an eye on her. Watch her as she went about. I didn't agree with her life style but in my heart I knew she would come home. It took six months for her to realize she'd made a mistake, and I know it had to be hard for her to admit she was wrong and move back home."
Like so many other parents we want to shield our children of the hurts and misfortunes that we endured. To give them the best life we can, a life of roses, without the thorns. Sometimes that's hard even when you have to let go so they can make their own mistakes like you did.
I am thankful that my Lord let me go through the calamities I did to acquire the wisdom He wanted me to have. There were times I felt all alone with no one to turn to. No one to talk to and comfort me. When I was at my lowest point God was with me, He held me in His hands, and shielded me from harm. We can only pray that He is with our children as they go out into the world to find their own wisdom.
Gracious Heavenly Father watch over our children, shield and protect them as they go out and find their way in life. Amen.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Christians
Acts 26;28 NAS
And Agrippa replied to Paul, "In a short time you will persuade me to become a Christian."
This morning my daughter and I went to the pool for our daily excerise and to talk about our daily life. A few minutes without the constant crying, yelling,fighting, and tugging on Mommy from her little ones.
She asked me if I was going to go to the pool with them this afternoon. I told her I had quite a few things I had to get done but if I got them done in time I'd meet them there.
Last night she tried to explain to her seven year old son, who swims like a fish, that he would have to take the swimming test again for the big pool. That he had to take it every year and then he would get his bracelet saying he could swim without his Mommy. He replied. "Mom why do I always have to take the swimming test? I can swim. They're not fair. They're Christians."
She tried to surpress a laugh and asked him. "Why do you say that?"
"Mom they're Christians. You know like next door."
"Son, they're Mormans."
This comment comes from a young man who has seen his neighbors do things that in his young mind are not what you do if you are a Christian. He felt the lifeguards were against him at the big pool therefore, they must be Christians.
How many times have we seen professed Christians do unchristian things? It doesn't make any difference if they are Morman, Methodist, Baptist, Luthern, Catholic, etc. I've heard my daughter say if that's the way they act then I'm glad I don't go to church. We, as Christians, have an obligation to live a Christian life, not only to our Lord, but for others. This means that we must live every day for Christ. Then maybe more people will come to know Christ and become Christians.
Our Heavenly Father I pray for each person that they live their life as a reflection of You. Guide us oh Lord. Amen.
And Agrippa replied to Paul, "In a short time you will persuade me to become a Christian."
This morning my daughter and I went to the pool for our daily excerise and to talk about our daily life. A few minutes without the constant crying, yelling,fighting, and tugging on Mommy from her little ones.
She asked me if I was going to go to the pool with them this afternoon. I told her I had quite a few things I had to get done but if I got them done in time I'd meet them there.
Last night she tried to explain to her seven year old son, who swims like a fish, that he would have to take the swimming test again for the big pool. That he had to take it every year and then he would get his bracelet saying he could swim without his Mommy. He replied. "Mom why do I always have to take the swimming test? I can swim. They're not fair. They're Christians."
She tried to surpress a laugh and asked him. "Why do you say that?"
"Mom they're Christians. You know like next door."
"Son, they're Mormans."
This comment comes from a young man who has seen his neighbors do things that in his young mind are not what you do if you are a Christian. He felt the lifeguards were against him at the big pool therefore, they must be Christians.
How many times have we seen professed Christians do unchristian things? It doesn't make any difference if they are Morman, Methodist, Baptist, Luthern, Catholic, etc. I've heard my daughter say if that's the way they act then I'm glad I don't go to church. We, as Christians, have an obligation to live a Christian life, not only to our Lord, but for others. This means that we must live every day for Christ. Then maybe more people will come to know Christ and become Christians.
Our Heavenly Father I pray for each person that they live their life as a reflection of You. Guide us oh Lord. Amen.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Children
Matthew: 19:14 NAS
But Jesus said, "Let the children alone, and do not hinder them from coming to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."
Pick up the newspaper, a magazine, or turn on the television and you see shootings, stabings, beatings of children. Yes children. It's one thing for adults to get upset with other adults and take their anger out by lashing out physicialy. When an adult lashes out at a child that is another thing.
A helpless child looks up to adults for guidance. From early childbirth adults teach children how to talk, walk, run, and play. When they see adults fight, curse, and lash out at others mentally, they in turn, do the same. This is what they are taught. They see it in movies, television, and some games.
My heart has been heavy lately for my own grandchildren. They are witness to an ugly divorce their parents are going through. The name calling, following each other around to see what the other is doing, all while the children are in tow.
I pray this activity is not going to be repeated in their lives but stastics will tell you children usually repeat what they've see or been brought up around. Today I ask you to take time to pray for each child out there, whether you know them or not, that God watch over them and deliver them from this enviorment.
Gracious Lord I pray for every child on earth that there is someone close to them that will tell them, or be an example to them, that Your love is forever. Let them know that they are a child of Yours. Amen.
But Jesus said, "Let the children alone, and do not hinder them from coming to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."
Pick up the newspaper, a magazine, or turn on the television and you see shootings, stabings, beatings of children. Yes children. It's one thing for adults to get upset with other adults and take their anger out by lashing out physicialy. When an adult lashes out at a child that is another thing.
A helpless child looks up to adults for guidance. From early childbirth adults teach children how to talk, walk, run, and play. When they see adults fight, curse, and lash out at others mentally, they in turn, do the same. This is what they are taught. They see it in movies, television, and some games.
My heart has been heavy lately for my own grandchildren. They are witness to an ugly divorce their parents are going through. The name calling, following each other around to see what the other is doing, all while the children are in tow.
I pray this activity is not going to be repeated in their lives but stastics will tell you children usually repeat what they've see or been brought up around. Today I ask you to take time to pray for each child out there, whether you know them or not, that God watch over them and deliver them from this enviorment.
Gracious Lord I pray for every child on earth that there is someone close to them that will tell them, or be an example to them, that Your love is forever. Let them know that they are a child of Yours. Amen.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Approval
Romans 14:18 NAS
For he who in this way serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men.
When my girls were in high school they were always dressing to look good for the boys and to show off to the other girls the latest new clothes and fashion. Although they wouldn't admit it but they were looking for approval from their peers.
I've seen neighbors go out and buy the newest lawnmowers, edgers, and bar-b-ques to show off. Whether they bought the gadgets because they really needed them or perhaps theirs had worn out, and they really had to replace the item. If we were to really think about it, they too, were looking for approval from others.
Approval comes in many different forms. There's getting accepted into the most prestigious school, making the football team, cheerleading squad, swim team, and a distinguished college. Children do things to please their parents to get their approval. Spouses likes to pamper to get your approval.
In our world today with people looking the other way, a strong man who has faith in the Lord, will live his life for God. This man is acceptable in God's eyes and an example to other men.
Dear Lord I pray for all the Godly men, that they are an example for others to follow. Amen.
For he who in this way serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men.
When my girls were in high school they were always dressing to look good for the boys and to show off to the other girls the latest new clothes and fashion. Although they wouldn't admit it but they were looking for approval from their peers.
I've seen neighbors go out and buy the newest lawnmowers, edgers, and bar-b-ques to show off. Whether they bought the gadgets because they really needed them or perhaps theirs had worn out, and they really had to replace the item. If we were to really think about it, they too, were looking for approval from others.
Approval comes in many different forms. There's getting accepted into the most prestigious school, making the football team, cheerleading squad, swim team, and a distinguished college. Children do things to please their parents to get their approval. Spouses likes to pamper to get your approval.
In our world today with people looking the other way, a strong man who has faith in the Lord, will live his life for God. This man is acceptable in God's eyes and an example to other men.
Dear Lord I pray for all the Godly men, that they are an example for others to follow. Amen.
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