Wag It

                        Our dog, Jack, rarely barks but frequently wags his tail.  Like most of us, he has a pretty good life but I'm sure he has a few things he'd like to change.
                       Do you talk more about your blessings or your burdens?  We must see our lives through a godly perspective, not a worldly perspective.  The world will make you feel short changed because there will always be more to be had.  A godly perspective humbles us and provides for God's will to be done in our lives, more so than our own will.
                      We would all do well to have more of a grateful heart, than a critical heart.  It is not always easy, but finding content in all circumstances is a goal worth aiming for.

Foto Friday

Best Listener

                  Sometimes we just don't want to share our thoughts with others.  It might seem trivial, or like gossip, or just can't be put into words.  Whatever troubles us is of concern to God, regardless of no one else caring.  God is our safe place to vent and leave our burdens with.  'When I am cast down in spirit and soul, He whispers sweet peace to me.''
                  When our words fail us, our hearts can still be heard.  Often our eyes are the windows to our souls.  People often tell me they can see how I feel in my eyes without me saying a word.  God has an even better connection with us than that.  Jesus felt burdens just like we do and yet said 'Forgive them, for they know not what they do.'
                  Prayer from a sincere heart is the best thing you can do for others and yourself.

What's Your Legacy?

                               Do you remember how important it was to you to get your yearbook signed back in high school?  We all wanted those blank pages filled up with memories from our friends.  We wanted to see that we had made a mark in others lives in those fast four years.
                              What about the mark we leave during the rest of our lives, the majority of our years?  You will be remembered most by how you treated people, more than what you said or did.  Maybe that's why God commands us to 'love one another' because it matters most in a purpose driven life for Christ.
                             When I think of my own funeral, I would like all the attendees to have their own special 'I remember when' moment in their minds.  My life accomplishments are more my own memories but a legacy is more about the impact that one has in other's lives.  Recently, I've been blessed by others telling me how my life has encouraged or strengthened their lives..... AND THAT'S WHAT IT'S ALL ABOUT.  

What to Look For..

Proverbs 19;23  ''The fear of the Lord leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble.''

                       Being in the hospital recently wasn't my first rodeo nor my first time up to bat.  My health struggles are part of my life story and I've accepted that.  When I was younger, my fears led to fainting, endless tears and panic.  Experience in the physical realm of discomfort has helped my faith grow and helped me trust beyond what I feel.
                      Do you truly believe God is with you every step of the way and that He uses people for His purposes?  I found comfort in recognizing nurses and aides from my last hospital stay and knew I was in good hands.  I found comfort in my new doctor listening and answering 'my' questions.  I found comfort from all my visitors that each have their own special relationship with me.
                     I'm not saying this was not a storm without bolts of lightning, but there is always a silver lining of peace.  My peace comes from knowing I'm in God's hands and on His timetable.....and nothing can change that.
                     

Foto Friday

Friday... feeling better
at TuttiFrutti NLR

Ive got great connections for
get well treats... thanks R.H.

Tiger missed me

Jack promoting a day of rest

Chris Tomlin concert....2 days before
going into the hospital

You Will.....

                     I find comfort in this verse, especially during my days overcome with sickness.  Let's take a moment to break this verse down.....

---In this world...... This is our place to be right now, but it is temporary
---You.... that includes everyone and excludes no one
---Will..... not maybe or might
---Have trouble.... hardship in some shape or form is a burden for us to bear
---But take heart.... there is hope to be found
---I.....God alone is that hope
---Have......its alread been done and our debt paid in full
---Overcome the world...... death has no sting, victory has been won.

                    When I am seriously sick, my thoughts become more focused on my immortality and the next step.  I think about the frailty of this body that's carrying my soul around.  I am blessed to have fight left in me but more than that, a hope that sustains me.  Trouble will hit me but my faith will not break.  May God use me in whatever way He deems best for His glory.

Where ya been?

                                  I've been in the hospital from April 23rd to the 27th and am home now.  I'm still recovering from my bout with 'almost pneumonia'.  I've had many more visitors than this picture, but I don't have the energy to post them.  I appreciate all your thoughts and prayers.  I thank my parents, Charlene and Karla for the round the clock care.