The Difference

     Sure I like to have things but I could do without them if I had to.  I think of people who will stand in line for hours in inclement weather for the newest iPhone but would they help out someone in need for thirty minutes? I'll let them answer that.  Some try to show their love to others by buying them things but their time spent with them would mean so much more.
     Some people will pretend to love you, just to use your things. It's important to share what God has blessed us each with but time will show you if you're being used.  Friendship is a two-way street, not one-way.
    Black Friday is coming up next week and I'm all for shopping for bargains. Just remember to show people they are loved with more ways than purchased things. Time can't be packaged or bought, yet its more valuable than gold.

Look Further

     This caption makes me think of my friend, Lesley.  She is literally across the ocean serving as a missionary.  As do all missionaries, she has family and friends at home that she loves and misses.  She gives up the common everyday conveniences of the modern world. She faces danger in a country with an unstable government.  These are all reasons that could hold her back from her calling but it doesn't.  Why?  She faces the unknown with courage because she realizes the importance of spreading God's word.  Her translation work of the Bible reaches a people group, the Glaro, that would otherwise be untouched by the Word, but instead left to witchcraft.
     You too can reach your goals and fullfil your purpose, if you don't let things or fears hold you back.

A Star Is Born?

     I love Molly Shannon's character, Mary Katherine on SNL, to say 'Superstar'..lol
    Most kids like to dress up and pretend to be a 'Superstar.' The attention, the glamour and attempted talent is fun.  It makes you feel bigger than you think you are.
     When I was 4, we went to a music show up in Mountain View.  Near the end of the show, they asked if anyone in the audience wanted to come up on stage. I asked if I could and my parents said yes.  They say I got a lil shy after I got up there.  After the show, my dad had to go looking for me.  He found me backstage walking up and down the hall. 'What are you doing,' he asked.  'I'm looking for my dressing room!'
    Often kids will dress up as their role models...teacher, parent, etc.  Be the role model that you'd like to see imitated by your kid.

Just a Sip?

     We all like to sample new things.  You can even make a meal off free samples at Sam's Club on the weekend.  Just try and you'll buy it. Its a gimmick thats proven to work.
     The devil can also deceive us into thinking we can try things just once, just ask Eve.  Drug addiction comes first to my mind on this because so many addicts claim, they just wanted to try it once. Just a sip, just a taste, just a puff is all it took to ruin so many lives.  There are countless sins to avoid because our sinful minds will start to justify why one more time will be okay.  We lose our sensitivity to the moral ground we once believed in and fall into darkness.  Nancy Reagan's 'Just Say No' campaign in the 80's may seem simple but it really is the bottom line.  Temptation will move on to somewhere else when confronted with a non-wavering NO.
     Take a gulp of the good life and pass on the sip of sin.  Let your 'no' mean 'no', even to a sip.

Ephesians 4;19-21 ''Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed.  That, however, is not the way of life you learned when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus.''

The Look

     Okay, apparently some of you out there gave me 'the look' thru your computer screens over yesterday's blog. That's okay.  If you know me very well, then you've probably been on the receiving end of 'the look' from me at some point..lol.  Since my voice is soft, sometimes the opportunity isn't right to say what I want.  Other times, I just know nothing good is going to come from my mouth so I keep it shut.  There are also times when no words are needed.  These are all scenarios when 'the look' might pop out.
     I'll give a couple of examples..lol.  I have an automatic bed and it broke a few months ago.  My dad said he'd fix it one day when I was upstairs taking a shower. Time passed till one day as I was going upstairs, I caught him in the driveway with a toolbox.  I asked, in a leading the witness kinda way, what are you going to work on? His trailer lights. Without a word spoken, I gave 'the look'. My eyes told and his eyes heard everything.  My bed has worked ever since I got back from that shower.
     One day, Charlene and I were out and she needed to run into the neighborhood market. I was going to wait for her in the van. I told her I was fine and there was no need to lock the van but she insisted.  When she came back, the remote wouldn't unlock the doors.  'The look' said with a panic, 'now I'm trapped.'  After a few more tries with the remote, she realized the old fashioned way would work.. the key.  lol. You might laugh but I didn't think of it either.
     We must be careful to watch what are eyes convey to others. Our thoughts can be boldly spoken by rolling our eyes or softly given by a subtle glance. Sometimes we aren't even aware our eyes are saying anything but they do.  Connie, who I worked with, could always tell if I didn't feel well. She'd say, I can see it in your eyes.
     Some times I need to close my mouth AND close my eyes...lol.

I Ate Too Much

     How many times have you felt like this fat cat?  I can definetely over indulge in a few things like guacamole and frozen yogurt.  The miserable feeling after we've crossed the line is certainly not pleasurable or worth it.  So why do we do it?  Boredom, not wanting to waste it, lack of self control, or because you're a member of the clean plate club. We used to go out for lunch on Saturdays with the plan to grocery shop afterwards.  I can't tell you how many times, we got so full that groceries were postponed to another day...ha.
     We must remember our bodies are a gift and a temple, not our own. Respecting our bodies with ample nourishment will make us feel better overall.

Romans 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit

Canton Nov 2011

 We left for Canton, TX on Thursday, Nov 3rd.  The whole town turns into a flea market, with new and old stuff, the weekend before the first Monday of each month. We got there about 830pm.
Friday started out kinda cold so we went to the indoor mall first. 300 vendors there with booths. We ran into the lady who made my bench several years ago. She wasnt here on our last visit and this was her last show to sell at. I wish I had taken a picture with her. She is going to paint 4 new scenes for my bench by early spring.
Friday afternoon we went to the main area with long metal buildings filled with vendors. We brought my new machine so that when I got tired, I could get some air. Well when that time came, my mask broke.  aghhh.  I had a spare in the van so no harm. The crowds weren't too bad Friday.  We ate at dinner at our usual mexican restaurant, Juanitas...free ice cream.

Saturday, oh my gosh, was a mad house. We estimated at least 100,000 people were there. They say the economy is bad? not in Canton.  Jack went with us Sat afternoon. He thought everyone was his best friend, including this one dog, a bull mastiff, that wanted to eat him in one bite...lol.  The traffic picture below is us trying to go about 3 miles back to the rv..took over an hour. For die hard shoppers, its worth it..lol.  Needless to say, we ate in and watched the LSU/AL game. My dad came down with a cold this night too.
Sunday, we thought we were doing good to be ready by 1020am... wait its 920am? Thanks Verizon..lol.  When do you know its time to go home?  The owner at the last store stopped my dad and I at the door and said 'no wheelchairs allowed.'  Seriously?  I'm not sure thats legal but we left it at that and walked away.  If you go to Canton, boycott Laurie Annas... just my lil free advertising plug..lol.
We got home about 8pm Sunday night...whooped. It was a great trip that I've waited over a year for. Christmas shopping mostly done plus a few goodies for me..lol.
Sincerely,  Canton Junkie



Did You Hear?

     When you hear of someone losing their job or being stricken by illness, do you start a gossip chain or a prayer chain?  The best way to help them is to pray for them, not talk about them.  Its easy to talk about why it happened and what should be done from our feeble viewpoints. Oh but little do we know about the big picture.  Petitioning the burdens of others to God is the best use of your mouth.

Outfit Choices

    Is it Murphy's law that if you wear a sloppy outfit, then you'll have more run-ins with people you know? I think its true. We all consider what we think the day has in store for us when we choose our clothes for the day. I think if you wear something you like then it will show thru in your mood and attitude.  Maybe I'm just showing my vain side but its important to care how you look.

It's Not Ours to Decide

The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, but the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness. —Proverbs 15:2

 

     Well I sometimes watch The Dr. Oz show, if the topic interests me. Yesterday's show was on whether doctor assisted suicide should be legal or not.  I won't beat around the bush as to what my opinion is.  I believe its wrong and the most selfish act one can commit on earth.  I only watched part of the show, which did give both sides, but I get fed up with people being the devil's advocate. No one chooses to be born, God gave you life, so its not your right to end it.  Montel Williams was a guest on the show and told how he fell, on purpose, in front of a cab to try to end his life. The cab stopped in time but how guilt stricken would that cab driver been if he couldn't have stopped. Selfish. Another guest, who was completely disabled, talked of the life she used to have and the one she didn't have now. Yet what she was blessed with, two grown children, she was willing to depart from at her own choice. Selfish. One last guest that I'll mention was a completely disabled man who had thought about suicide but realized how much life had to offer, just in a more confined way of existence.

     Last year towards the end of my hospital stay, my doctor talked to me about hospice. I was totally shocked to say the least. Hospice, in my mind, was for patients that medicine could no longer help. Here I was giving my all, plus more and I'm supposed to agree to surrender? I told him the next day that to agree to hospice was like suicide to me. I was not ready to give up and there was still fight left in me.  The 'H' word has never been brought up again.  [I know hospice is a needed resource for many in desperate, end of life situations].

     There is always hope so don't give in to bad circumstances.  None of us can have the life and abilities of the past because whether its illness or age, we all slow down. Don't throw in the towel, just shake it off and use what ya got.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

November Prayer Requests

The following are prayer requests from FBF missionaries. Please join me in praying for them.

Lesley Wolfe
--- Introducing Guy and Keyla Burkhead, who are seriously considering joining
the Glaro team!  They will be finishing their training with New Tribes
Mission in December, and after a year of deputation will be ready to head to
'the field'.  Of course, the Speitelsbachs and I are praying that they will
join our team and work with Aaron and Amy in Freetown, Liberia.  Please join
us in praying for God's clear direction in Guy and Keyla's lives.

---My current co-workers, Aaron and Amy Speitelsbach, will be returning to
Liberia on November 13th.  After a brief time in Monrovia, they will make
the 20-hour trip to the Glaro village of Freetown, in southeastern Liberia,
where they will settle in once again to village life and then get back to
the task of studying the Glaro language and culture.

--- I hope to be back in the village by Thanksgiving day, and once the solar
 panels have been replaced on the roof of my office and my power producing
 gadgets are all hooked up, I'll be back to translating, focusing on the book of
 Matthew these next few months.

---The village chief in Beoue died in mid-September and a new chief has yet to be
appointed by the Glaro elders from among themselves.  Please pray that God
will direct their choosing of the new village chief, and that he will desire
to do good for the village and all of us living there.

Phillip Prime and Family
         
Please pray that the Lord would use The Way of the Master evangelism course to help our church better share Christ and have a renewed compassion for the lost.
Please pray for the salvation of Juan and Karina. They live across the street from where our church meets on Sundays and have shown an interest in spiritual things.

Lord willing we will be heading to family camp in a few weeks with the bookmobile. We would like to praise the Lord for His provision of new tires for the    Bookmobile!

Martin Tuohy and Family
1. Continue to wait on the Lord for peace and clarity as to if He wants us to serve in Puruandiro, MX or stay in Denmark.

2. Wisdom and discipline to take full advantage of the current ministry here while we wait. Teaching and evangelism.

Bobby and Namatha Avilez
1.        Pray for  adjustment to culture and language for new staff, The Kents, as they settle into their new ministry roles!
2.       Pray for a great start to the second semester

Ted and Priscilla Clark

We really need prayer at this time for wisdom in planning our upcoming Christmas outreach.  It is always a huge undertaking, but we continue to feel that it is worthwhile, as we have seen the Lord working through this event throughout the years. How we need the Lord’s thoughts to put together a program that would glorify Him, present His message as clearly as possible, and be a delight for the listeners at the same time as it is used to convict them of their sin and need for Christ.

We will be hosting our very large Family camp, followed by our large missionary gathering for Thanksgiving.  Please pray for the Lord’s merciful protection over many who will be traveling in for these occasions.  A couple of families will be traveling 10 hours or so from Northern Mexico, and many families from surrounding cities.We are so grateful for the wonderful speakers the Lord has provided for this camp.  Pray for great wisdom for them in presenting these truths from Scripture, which could make all the difference for these families.  Pray for the power of the Holy Spirit to accompany the teachings and reception in the hearts of the people.

Invest in Today

    I just found this and copied it.  I don't think there's any more that needs said.

A Great Example

      When I read this caption, I immediately thought of one person, no pun intended..lol. That would be Phillip Persson.  He is one of our pastors at church.  One of his causes is teaching kids music for free on almost any instrument they choose.  Never seeking applause but instead teaching them discipline, a work ethic and faithfulness thru music.  He also expresses his love for the Lord through song writing. He has written songs for many occasions, like weddings or child dedications, not to impress others but to express God's will and  desire for that situation.  Philllip has taught me music lessons on the hammer dulcimer for a few years now. I have recently taken a break from those and his absence on Saturday mornings has truly been felt.
      I could go on and on about the great example he sets for us all in many different areas of the church and with his life but I just wanted to give a glimpse. 
      Our ultimate example tho is Jesus.  As Christians, let others see us as a good example of what it means to be a believer and follower of Him.

Memory in the Making

     Our past is our own. We can share bits and pieces with others but nothing you say or show can really encapsulate all that it means to you. Its like sharing your favorite photo album, your enthusiasm will always be greater than whoever you're showing it to. This video by John Kilzer takes me back to the past, as do many songs for people. Its not good to live in the past tho because we must move forward and grow from our experiences.  There is a time and season for why and when things have happened in your life. Don't get stuck in the winter of your journey when spring has so much to offer.

     'Don't look back, you're not headed that way' is a quote from my friend, Twylia.  If we focus too much on what was then, our eyes won't see what's ahead or right in front of us. We wouldn't want amnesia because memories are part of who we are but we must not dwell there. Make the memories of today then move on to tomorrow.

100th Blog

     I can't believe that I've written 100 blogs already but thats what blogspot tells me. Actually this is the 100th.  It seems like just yesterday my friend, Gloria, was urging me to start a blog. I had been reading hers, Under Her Wings, for awhile and just thought it to be an overwhelming task. Well I jumped in with both feet blindly and somehow didn't drown as I expected. It is now my favorite hobby.  I'm so glad Gloria lit the spark to the little fire inside me that I can share with you.  The blog has taught me a lot through looking up relevant bible verses, to sharing my opinions on difficult subjects tactfully, and the growth of dear friendships.  What a blessing this blog has been to me.  I look forward to writing it every day that I can and am anxious to see what is in store for the blogs to come.
     Thank you to all who read my blogs.  Thanks especially to those who comment on here, verbally, or by email to me. Your support means alot.
     And that's that!

How Rude

     I like this caption because now my reaction to rudeness can be to think how weak they are, instead of just getting angry back. I think you can go out and find rudeness almost anywhere any day of the week.  Why is that?  Short tempers, impatience, lack of understanding, arrogance and pride are just a few reasons. I think this applies to vocabulary too.  Cursing is just rude. A good comedian can tell a joke without any foul language but a weak comedian fills his lack of talent with obscenities.  Rudeness isn't a becoming feature so lets try to avoid it in ourselves and others.

 

''A rude nature is worse than a brute nature by so much more as man is better than a beast: and those that are of civil natures and genteel dispositions are as much nearer to celestial creatures as those that are rude and cruel are to devils.'' M. Cavendish 

Proverbs 2;12-15
Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men,
   from men whose words are perverse,
who have left the straight paths
   to walk in dark ways,
who delight in doing wrong
   and rejoice in the perverseness of evil,
whose paths are crooked
   and who are devious in their ways.

Your Word

''One thing you can give and still keep...is your  word.''


    We all know people who do what they say they're going to do and those who we say to ourselves, yea I'll believe it when I see it. It's easy to entrust someone with a task or favor, if we believe in what they say they will do.  Our word is our bond to others. If you say it, fulfill it. Say what you mean and mean what you say. Its better not to over extend yourself in commitments than to agree on something and disappoint those counting on you. It used to be that a handshake and your word was as good as a written legal document. Where has our word gone?
    Yes, life happens and things get bumped but we all can be understanding and forgiving to those situations.  For the most part tho, we need to be people that can be trusted to do what we said we'd do.
    The following I copied from Todd Smith's website.
      Starting today, become a person who lives up to your word and does what you say you will even when circumstances change.
       Uphold your word with a good attitude. Remember that it was you who said “yes” in the first place.
       Take every opportunity to learn from your commitments so that you can make better decisions in the future.
       Finally, do you have any unfulfilled commitments? Do them now. You will feel better.

Keeping your word is one of the most effective ways to earn the respect of others and build a solid reputation, both personally and professionally.

4 Things You Can't Recover

     We've all wanted a re-do over some things we've done. If only it was that easy but we'd probably make even more mistakes knowing we could take it back. This caption tells us of four things that can't be redone.
     'The Stone' thrown can't be hurled back. Anger can make you want to throw something or give that slow car in front of you a lil push. The consequences of clean up can really bring on the regrets.  ''Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. —Romans 12:19
     'The Word' cannot fly back into your mouth, no matter how much you want to take it back.  We often get so wrapped up in wanting to express our thoughts and opinions, that we forget to run it thru a filter first.  James 1;19-20 ''My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.''
     'The Occasion' can never be recaptured exactly the same way. I truly hate to miss out on events that I've planned on but sometimes its unavoidable. There are other times tho that I really didn't have the desire to go but went anyways, I later realize all the good things I would've missed. Hebrews 6:12 ''We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.'' 
    'Time' is passing as we speak. If we cherished time like we should, we would live more in the moment. I told a friend of mine, who was so busy with her kids activities that she had very little time for herself, enjoy it because this time will never happen again.   Psalm 89;47  ''Remember how fleeting is my life. For what futility you have created all humanity!''
     Its important to remember these four things are quick to be done or passed by but they will not come back for a second chance.

Put 'Em On

     Sometimes you have to just put your big girl panties on!  Sometimes people have said to me, I know its hard for you to [something] but you do it anyway. Whatever that [something] is, I do it because its important to me. Just because [something] isn't easy, doesn't mean its not worth doing.
     We all deal with tough situations, hopefully not every day.  When those times come, although difficult, its best to deal with it right then or as soon as possible.  Don't cower or be intimidated, stand up for what you know is right.  Like they say, 'if you don't stand for something, then you'll fall for anything.'  Often we will give in to peer pressure or just conform to what society calls normal but thats not what we are called to do. We were made in His image and are to be transformed into His likeness.

Romans 12:2
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

2 Corinthians 3:18
And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.

The Tomlin Concert

     What an awesome night we had. Everything of the night just went perfectly. It began with great parking just across the street. The concert was sold out and began on time. The first song was 'Our God is Greater.' Chris sang about an hour then the female, Kristy Nichols sp?, sang 2 songs. Then there was a speaker talking about how all of God's creations from stars to whales create a symphony of song to sing praise to God. Then Chris sang another hour or more. Sometime during the concert, a guy came up to us and asked if we'd like to meet Chris after the show. YESSSSSS. I prayed that I wouldn't have to cough and miss this opportunity. I'd never been backstage before. It was cool and he was nice. We were gone 4 1/2 hrs this night and it couldn't have been better. 'Our God is an Awesome God'

Chris Tomlin

     Going to the Chris Tomlin concert tonight with Charlene and David.  Hoping for a good, fun, cough-free night with wonderful, uplifting music. Here's a couple of videos if you've never heard of him before.

okay, just one more

Sing It

     I've been singing my whole life. When I was about 4, we attended Freewill Baptist Church in Conway. I would ask the preacher every Sun night, if I could sing to the church after the service. Most of the time, they let me. Well as I've gotten older, my voice has weakened considerably. That doesn't stop me from singing tho because I enjoy it. A friend told me once, '' my mom sings in the car and I can't stand it but I don't care that you do because I can't really hear you.''  Kids can be so honest, at times..lol.  The truth is that I'm not singing for you or anyone else but for me and the joy it brings. Last night in church, I didn't have a hymnal so I tried to just listen. Soon I was reading over the lil girl's shoulder in front of me, singing what I could see.
     God wants to hear our voices sing songs about Him, about what He's done and His promises. We can't all be excellent singers but we all have a voice, however small, to sing praises with.  Don't be shy, forget your the person beside you and sing loud and proud.

Psalm 98;4-6
  Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth,
   burst into jubilant song with music;
make music to the LORD with the harp,
   with the harp and the sound of singing,
with trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn—
   shout for joy before the LORD, the King.

Hot or Cold?

     This caption is so like me. The first cold snap of fall is a shock to my system sending chills down my spine.  'It's cold in here' is a common phrase until my body gets used to it. In the spring tho, after bone chilling temps, the same temperature of the fall can be a welcome relief.  Why is this?  I think its our perspective on the future. In the fall, we know its only going to get worse and colder. In the spring, we know this is the beginning to warmth and the renewing of everything in nature. They're two totally different outlooks.
     What is your perspective on your future/eternity?  Are you expecting doom and gloom or a renewed body in Christ?  Believers can and do look forward to eternity.
     We are studying Revelation in our bible study. Below is a list, from Grace Mayo, of ways we can be pulled away from our love with God.    

1. Attempting to serve two masters (Mt. 6:24)
2. A love of money (1 Tim 6:10)
3. A love of position (Mt. 23:6)
4. Failure to love our enemies (Luke 6:27)
5. Trying to live up to the 'letter of the law' and missing the intent (Luke 11:42)
6. Pleasure and convenience (Rom. 14:15)
7. A love of self (1John 3:16-18)
8. Disharmony, hurt, unwillingness to forgive (Eph. 4:30-5:2; Col. 3:12-14; 1 Thes.4:9-10)
9. Failing to love others (1 John 4:20)
10. Compromising the Word (2 Tim.1:13)
11. Failure to witness (2 Cor. 5)
12. Trials (Jam.1:25; 1 Pet.4:12-19)
13. Sin (1 John 2:5).  Sin is transgression of the law; knowing to do good and not doing it; anything in thought, word, or deed contrary to the standard of God.
14. Love of the world (1 John 2:15-17)

     Let's not be pulled away but be on fire for the Lord and look forward to our eternity with Him.

Rev 3;15-16  ¹⁵ I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! ¹⁶ So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth

On Your Side

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     How good are you at being still? It's not an easy thing to do in our fast paced worlds that are fiilled with a million activities. Yes, there is and always will be something that could be done. We even make lists but being still a little while should be on there too. Sometimes God will use sickness, injury or whatever means to slow us down. Do we use that time wisely tho? Down time can turn into prayer time, bible reading time, meditation on your blessings time, etc. As this verse from Exodus points out, you are not alone God is on your side fighting for you. 'You need only to be still' means you need to quit running around trying to fix it yourself. Just calm yourself down and pray about it. Even Jesus sought out time to be alone, to be still and to pray.
    So go spend some quiet time by yourself and just be still while God fights for you.

Exercise

Just as the body grows in strength
With exercise each day,
Our spirit grows in godliness
By living life God’s way. —D. De Haan

Godly exercise is the key to godly character.

     One thing for sure is that I am not an exercise enthusiast. If I went to the gym, I'd be the one trying to find the closest parking space to the door.  I could give excuses of why working out is not my thing but its just not a pleasure but a needed chore in my eyes. When we lived in IL, I used to walk on the treadmill while we watched 'All in the Family' reruns. That helped take my mind off what I was doing. Now I have a stand-up machine for exercise. The dust on it outside is my guilty reminder to get to using it. I will, I'm going to..soon..lol.
     We need physical exercise but our bodies need spiritual exercise more importantly. You can do push ups till your last day on this earth, but your body will die. Its guaranteed. Living by the Spirit will make you stronger than any body builder could dream of.  Godly exercise will produce fruit that will build your character into who God wants you to be.

 Romans 8:11 (NIV) '' And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.''
    

Storms

     No matter who you are, we all face storms in our lives. They come in all kinds of different ways: sickness, disasters, loss, hurt, etc.  They are there for a reason, to teach us. When facing a storm, it can teach us to not rely on ourselves. We are powerless but with God 'all things are possible' and He can calm the storm. On the other hand, He can keep the storm going to teach you to trust in Him and His timing. When asking  'is this ever going to end?', the outcome can teach you patience and perserverance thru that difficult time.
     The next time you're in a storm, ask yourself  'What is God trying to teach me from this?' I bet the quicker we learn, the quicker it'll be over. I suppose too that we often have to endure similar storms because God knows our weak areas of learning.

What to Wear?

     Have you been to the mall or Walmart lately? Good grief, the clothes that people leave their house in??? What are they thinking? Your appearance says alot about you. I'm not saying you have to 'dress up' to go to the store but jeans are as easy to put on as pajama pants. 'Pajama' gives you a clue on where they are to be worn..'bed', not in public.  And please, cover the essentials! Buy a belt to keep your pants up, buy a bra that fits and a shirt is not a dress. How we present ourselves to the world is a testimony in it of itself. Show the world you respect yourself by dressing with decency, appropriateness, and modest style.
     1 Timothy 2;9-10  ^'' I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God.''

Kind of Woman?

Too Busy?

From the Daily Bread-- ''If we’re too busy to spend time with God, we’re simply too busy''

     How many of us have said we just don't have time to read our Bibles, go to church or even pray? Is it really that we have no time or that we don't set aside time? I know I've been guilty of this, especially when I worked. I understand the busyness of the week's schedules and the exhaustion that follows. My weekends were for sleeping in and the thought of getting up early on Sunday just got pushed aside. That's too busy of a lifestyle tho. Retiring at 30, slowed me down and rearranged my time and what activities were important to me. Church and bible study are now priorities. Its true, they refresh your mind and soul for the week.
    Take time for God. Nothing should be more important than cultivating a relationship with the Lord, and nothing is more essential to maintaining that relationship than a daily time alone with the Lord in the Word and prayer.
     He spends every second thinking about you and working on your behalf.

Grudges

     What is a grudge? A persistant feeling of resentment, especially due to some cause, such as insult or injury. Do you have free renters in your head? I'd say mine set up temporary housing and I try to evict them as quick as possible. Holding a grudge gives your power over to someone else and hurts you worse than them. Grudges will control your thoughts, attitude and disposition. It's not healthy. So what's the solution? Forgiveness. It clears the mind, if you truly embrace it. We are all guilty of saying or doing things worthy of a grudge so if you want forgiveness, you also have to give it. If you're unforgiving, you may pay the price repeatedly by bringing anger and bitterness into every relationship and new experience. Your life may become so wrapped up in the wrong that you can't enjoy the present.
      Budge that grudge right out of your mind. Nothing is free in this world so don't give away your mind and thoughts to anger, but instead let peace, compassion and understanding take its place.

Get Out There

“It is not good for the man to be alone” (Gen. 2:18).


     It is so easy now to do so much from the comfort of our own homes. We can shop, order food, visit with friends thru email or social networking, watch movies, and even work from home. We could easily isolate ourselves and rarely get out into the actual world.. Would that be good for us though? No, of course not. We are made to be social beings. We are to have fellowship with one another both to encourage and rebuke. 1 John 1:7 ''But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.''  Isolation can lead to lonliness, depression and an unhealthy attitude of self-reliance.
     We need each other, thats all there is to it. Go on, get out there and socialize. Remember the home-bound too, they especially need your company.

Which Direction?

Psalm 16:11  You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.


     Where are we going in our lives? Is it filled with purpose or just getting by? So many people are unhappy in where they are in life. Why? Often its a self-centered life focused on the here and now with no thought of eternity. As Suess says, you've been given the brains and feet to go and be whatever you want in life but it takes your efforts, drive and direction to get there. People often want the perks without the works. You can squeak by doing the bare minimum but don't expect maximum results from it.
     God has a chosen path for you and if you choose that path, the joy will be like a cup that runneth over. If you choose the path of wickedness, you will reap what you sow and never have joy. The direction you choose will lead to happiness or destruction. Its really not a hard choice, is it?

Psalm 17:5  My steps have held to your paths; my feet have not stumbled.

Thinking of You

1 Timothy 4:12   Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. 

  Today while sitting in church, I noticed the little girl's journal in front of me. This family of four girls take notes during each service. The entry I read must have been from Wed. night prayer time. She had 'PRAYER' and a paragraph of people and things to pray for. I was the first on her list.  How sweet is that to know even an 8yr old has you in her prayers. It just goes to show you're never too young to do something for someone else. Prayers can be more help than anything else.

THINK

     We all have something to say but these 5 questions could save us all alot of grief. The tongue can be quick and harsh if not controlled. 'True' is very important. We don't want to start a rumor or bear false witness. 'Helpful' --is what you wana say beneficial, encouraging? Or are your words adding flame to the fire? 'Inspiring' words can cause great things to happen. Words that motivate others often spread joy beyond that one person. 'Necessary' words can prevent harm or steer someone in the right direction. Your opinion is not always necessary tho, a listening ear may be all thats needed. 'Kind' words are always best.  Words enriched with praise, appreciation, and love can go so much further in getting your point across.
     Yes, its easier said than done but just 'T-H-I-N-K' on it before you speak abruptly.

One More Bus

Job 10:12
You gave me life and showed me kindness, and in your providence watched over my spirit.


     You're probably thinking that I've ridden so many buses by now, that I probably lived in one down by the river? Well, no, not as of yet. haha. After yesterday's blog on the 'hated' bus, I want to share with you the story of the most 'grateful' bus.
     In 1993, we decided to move from Arlington, TX to the Chicago area. This threw a wrench in my college plans. There are tons of colleges there to choose from but trying to find the right one took alot of research. I chose NIU in DeKalb, IL. [trivia..hometown of Cindy Crawford] The university provided handicapped students with transportation. With the huge campus and terrible weather, it was invaluable. The heated bus picked me up at home, dropped me off at the appropriate buildings and took me back home. That would've been sufficient but they would also take me to get lunch at Wendys. Even the grocery store was a destined option and they'd carry my stuff in the house for me. How provided for was I?? Amazingly so. We had a ramp in our garage instead of steps to get to the door. It was about 3feet high and I fell off backwards once. They found and helped me off the cold concrete floor of the garage. I could've laid there all day. Another provision to my care and well being. During the summer semester, we no longer lived in DeKalb so that disqualified me from the bus. The bus driver let me keep my scooter at her house and picked me up with the bus there.
     Without the bus and the generosity of the bus driver, I couldn't have finished my senior year. God knew it was important to me and provided beyond what I asked for. Every step of the way was paved for me and my protection. How has God paved your way?

Burdens

 “Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens” (Psalm 68:19).


     Every one of us deals with daily burdens. It may be of no significance to someone else but to us, it's a weight on our shoulders. We often want to avoid it or work our way around it but facing it is usually the outcome.
     In 10th grade, I had just had back surgery and couldn't climb stairs. Therefore, I had to ride the 'special' bus to my new high school. The bus had a lift that I would stand on and raise me up to get on board. I felt humiliated and embarrassed to be on this bus, especially to a new school. I came home the first day and just cried. It was going to be a long, miserable year. The next day, I met a friend on the bus who had cerebral palsy. She was in the same boat as me but had already ridden this bus for 2years. We became good friends not only on the bus but at lunch too. My view of the bus never became 'pleasurable' but I did get to know the rest of the riders as people and to think less of myself.
     Daily burdens are not carried by us alone. God shares in them and teaches us with them. He will provide whatever we need to get through them every day.

Good?

     Have you seen or heard of the new campaign sign on city buses called  'Are you good without God?'  It's a slogan from an atheist group. Let's break it down. First, 'Are you good?'  NO. The bible clearly states that no one is even close to being good. Mark 10:18 (NIV) “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone.  Secondly, 'without God?'  Your pure existence is dependent on God. You can choose to deny Him but you're not self sufficient by any means. So to even ask, 'are you good without God?' is wasted breath. You are nothing without God. He supplies your every need, every day. Luke 11:3 (NIV)  'Give us each day our daily bread.' Thank Him for all the goodness in your life, despite how bad we really are.

Phil 1;6  ''that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.''

On the Porch

Here's our Mr. Scarecrow on our front porch. Yes, he's a little on the chubby side but he needs to be so that you can see him from the road. He adds a lil fall flavor to our plain white house. I love decorating for the different seasons. I would love fall, if my allergies and ragweed were erased from it. I'll just try to imitate Mr. Scarecrow's smile and 'grin and bear it.'  Happy Fall Yall!

Press on...

“In spite of illness, in spite even of the archenemy sorrow, one can remain alive long past the usual date of disintegration if one is unafraid of change, insatiable in intellectual curiosity, interested in big things, and happy in small ways.”

― Edith Wharton



     We are all disintegrating in some form at this very moment. Our days are numbered and are being used up one by one. I know of someone who has just succumbed to their disability. Its a sad state of existence as a hermit, not only for them but their family. I hear of people that have been diagnosed with an uncurable diagnosis, not deadly just debilitating, and say they'd rather just go on to heaven. I think this is a bad attitude. Of course, we should look forward to meeting our Maker but you can still make a difference in the world around you. Acceptance of the changes in you is critical. Don't give up, just work thru it. Keep your mind active. Conversation, games, reading...whatever your mind enjoys. Get involved with a project. We all have something to offer.  Savor the precious little moments that happen all around you. Watching a squirrel outside or taking a short drive can refresh and rejuvinate your mind and soul.     Go on, get off the bench and do something that shows your alive and well.

Justice

Deuteronomy 16:20    ''Follow justice and justice alone, so that you may live and possess the land the LORD your God is giving you.''   

   When we feel like we've been done wrong, the seeking of justice is usually not far behind. My friend's two year old daughter was recently asked during family worship time, if there was anything that she wanted prayed for. ''Justice!'' was her reply. ''I asked for a stroller with flowers and I didn't get it.''  That's as hilarious as it is cute. How does a 2yr old even know the word 'justice' and the correct meaning? Law school bound I think.
     The second year we lived in IL, we had an apartment in Naperville. One day during the dead of winter, I was home alone. I heard noise from outside our front door and concluded that someone was stealing from our woodpile. I hopped on my scooter, as fast as a turtle can go, and headed out the door for some vigilante justice. Well without a coat on, my pursuit was short lived. As I froze to the core, I thought 'what are you really gona do, if you do catch 'em? This scooter can't even jump the curb.' I went back home and reported the incident to the apartment complex's office. The police did catch the teenage thieves because we weren't their only victims in the complex. 
    In our self-reliant culture, we tend not to talk to the Lord about things we have under control or think we can handle ourselves. But we are instructed to seek His guidance in all areas (Phil. 4:6) and acknowledge our need of Him. He is just and will take care of all things on our behalf, now or later.

Rough Week

     It has been a rough week of battling congestion. A postponed vacation trip. Outings that I anticipated but got cancelled due to coughing. Today is Sunday and I've made it thru the week. Its been a great day today with church and Olive Garden for lunch. Also, my friend is here for the weekend to be my joy booster.  Small things can mean big moments with a grateful heart. Looking forward to a better week of health and opportunities.

The Horn

Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one. —Colossians 4:6

 

     There are two types of people in this world, horn blowers and non-horn blowers. I am a definite horn blower. I would use the horn on my scooter if it packed a punch but it doesn't, its like a squeaky lil mouse.  One day I was driving home from work on a two lane road but still in town. A car coming from the opposite direction suddenly did a U-turn right in front of me and was now the car in front of me. I had to slam on my brakes, with countless cars behind me, to avoid hitting the car. Boy, I was ticked. I laid on that horn like there was no tomorrow. Well, I forgot about the stoplight just ahead and of course, it turned red. The reckless driver now proceeds to get out of his car and walk towards me???  Oh my gosh, I thought, maybe I held the horn a lil too long. I'd heard of window bashing road rage so I didn't know what to expect. I cracked the window to a bare minimum to hear him say, 'I'm so sorry, I shouldn't have done that.' Relieved from fear, I was more than forgiving..lol. I said, 'its okay, just get back in your car.'  Whew, that could have gone a lot differently.

     A temper and a horn can put you in a compromising position. Grace in your speech can calm it all down rather quickly. Go ahead and blow your horn but maybe a little more controlled.

Stress

     I'm not stressed today, I'm actually cool as a cucumber. I just liked this lil caption to inspire this blog. Stress is a powerful thing that can consume us and be a negative example to others. If left undealt with, our bodies can literally be destroyed by it. I worked with a lady who had terrible stress at home and I'm sure the cancer she developed and died from was a consequence of that stress. Stress can cause sleepless nights that often affects our mood and health the next day. Have you ever been a snappy turtle because of stress? Oh I have been. Stress is part of life, it will come, and we can't avoid it completely. So how should we handle or react to stress? First and foremost, stop and pray about it. If you seek wisdom, you'll get it. It sure beats running around in circles trying to resolve it your own way. Second, ask yourself  'am I making a mountain out of a mole hill?'  Is it really worth getting all worked up over or is it best to just let it go? Third, I'd suggest to talk it over...calmly. Cool down before you even attempt a discussion. Stress will digress when you press with less.  The world can be a stressful place but if we put stress in its place, we can live and react with grace and peace.

Blessings



     'Count your blessings, name them one by one.'  The feedback I have gotten back from my blogs have been an overwhelming blessing to me. I look forward to reading the comments every day to see how whatever I said touched my reader's lives. The video above tells how blessings come in all different forms. Do you count 'trials of this life as His mercies in disguise?' It is a blessing that God will do whatever it takes to draw you near to Him, regardless of your pain or pleasure. I think if we could think of everything as a blessing, good or bad times, then we could see and accept our lives as part of God's plan more willingly and less of a fight. Yes, I was looking forward to going to Canton this weekend but my trial of being sick shows me that I am blessed with good medicine, praying friends and the comfort of home. That's the best bargain you'll ever find.

One Year Ago

     Well it was one year ago today that I went into the hospital and wasn't sure I'd come out. That was a day of seeing the doctor, having a bronchoscopy, non-stop coughing, an ambulance ride and a very long night of near suffocation. I asked my doctor, 'will I ever get back to where I was before?'  He said, 'it'll be a long road.'  Well that's not only true but an understatement. God has been merciful to me by giving me this past year. He has also used me to show His strength, comfort and power thru prayer to myself and to others. I've learned alot on this journey of recovery about fear, trust, patience and His timing. No one would have questioned it if I had been called home that day but apparently I am still in His plans with work to do. What He gives, I'll gladly take and what He takes, I'll gladly give.            Blessed beyond measure every day.

No Limits

    
     When I see people with fully functioning bodies just wasting away their lives and abilities, I get pretty frustrated and disgusted. So when I see someone, like Nick Vijisic, it is such a boost to my thoughts. Here's a guy with no limbs motivating a world wide audience with his testimony. How inspiring! Instead of complaining about what he doesn't have, he is grateful for all he does have and witnesses with that.
     Gripe or motivate? Is your glass empty or full or meeting all your needs? Whatever you think you're lacking in life, its not there for a reason but you can overcome it. Matthew 19:26  Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”  From the movie, Soul Surfer, in which Bethany Hamilton loses her arm to a shark bite...she says '' I don't need it to be easy, just possible.''  If we could all be as driven in our lives, imagine the possibilities??
  
If you use what little you may have
To serve the Lord with all your heart
You will find that He can do great things
When you begin to do your part. —Sper
    

FBF Prayer Requests for October

     The following prayer requests for October are from FBF missionaries. Please join me in praying for their needs.

Martin and Hansy Tuohy
1. Hansy is expecting again! Due at the end of April sometime. 

2. Still seeking God's clear direction on whether to go and serve in Mexico or stay in Denmark. Also, if so, before or after the baby?


Bobby and Namatha Avilez

1.      Please pray that we can kick the pink eye problem we have been having! Trying to get our kids to see that handwashing and not being around their sick friends will help to stem the problem.

2.       Please pray for our new staff couple from India who are in the final stages of coming over to join us. We are expecting them about the middle of October!

Monica and Quico Sernatinger

One week ago, we attended Sra. Sara's funeral. For several days before she died, the doctor that controlled her pain had been sharing Christ with her three times a day! PTL!!!! They believe she did go to meet the Saviour and is with Him... Her last words were "I am so happy that my heart can barely stand this happiness"  Please, continue to pray for her husband Trino, and her children and their families, Nacho y Lolita, Sara and Juan Manuel, Lupe y Gustavo, that they may continue the Bible study and be saved.

Next weekend, the Lord willing, Quico and I will be going to Mexico City to visit my brother and two of my father's sisters, Tia Finita and Tia Carmelita. Both of them were very impacted by Jamie's funeral and the testimony of his life. May we present the gospel clearly to them and may they be saved... I have been praying for them for years!

Also, I beg your prayers for a two sessions conference that I have been asked to teach in Salamanca on October 8th.  May this be of an encouragement to the believing ladies in this faithful church

Phil and Julia Zimmerman

We need prayer for our son, Jacob: his salvation, and his agreement to get the help we are asking him to get. We have gave him some choices, and one of those is to go into Teen Challenge for the life addictions he is struggling with. Please pray for the Lord's guidance for us, as well. There may be other opportunities, and we need to know what is best for him.

Ted and Priscilla Clark

 

Please pray for Caleb, as he begins his time away from home, studying in a secular environment. Pray that he would grow in his love for the Lord and His Word, as he begins  to live a life more  independent from us.  Pray that he would  be a powerful witness  to those around him, both in life and word.

Please pray for Chucho and Rosa and their family.  We are seeing an amazing new openness in them, since Chucho’s accident, and we feel they are very close to a personal understanding and acceptance

of the gospel.

Lesley Wolfe

Pray for her classes she's teaching at NTM training school to end well in October.

Pray for her preparations as she goes back to the Ivory Coast in the coming months.

The class I’m teaching finishes October 7^th, and, after grading all their papers, I will be leaving for Little Rock on the 16^th.  I fly out to Ivory Coast on November 1.

Due to the death of our village’s chief a week ago today, the elders will be choosing, from among themselves, who will be the next chief of our village.  Please pray that God will lead them to choose an elder who is worthy of respect and will  bring about good for the entire village.

.

A Rose Filled Day

It is only a tiny rosebud,
A flower of God's design;
But I cannot unfold the petals
With these clumsy hands of mine.

The secret of unfolding flowers
Is not known to such as I.
GOD opens this flower so easily,
But in my hands they die.

If I cannot unfold a rosebud,
This flower of God's design,
Then how can I have the wisdom
To unfold this life of mine?

So I'll trust in God for leading
Each moment of my day.
I will look to God for guidance
In each step of the way.

The path that lies before me,
Only my Lord knows.
I'll trust God to unfold the moments,
Just as He unfolds the rose.


     Today at church Nancy H. gave me a soft, pink rosebud from her flower garden at home. Then when I got home, I had an email from Patsy that included this poem. So I'm calling today, a rose filled one. Have you ever tried to pick off a few bad petals of a rose and it all just fell apart?  The rose is made up of layers upon layers that build upon each other to form a beautiful ending. Our lives can do that too, as we learn from each layer or times that we go thru and build upon that. We must seek His word and His will because we are so fault-ridden. There is so much we do not know or understand so how can we even think about calling the shots without His guidance. He knows your future, regardless of your plans, so place your trust in His guaranteed hands.

People Pleaser?

"Obviously, I'm not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ's servant." Galatians 1:10 (NLT)


     Do you find it hard to say 'no' to a task asked of you? Do you feel bad if an event doesn't go as planned because of you? I am a partial people pleaser, we won't discuss percentages..lol. Today I don't feel very well and my music lesson was certainly not up to par. I feel like a let down when I can't make the most of our time. I've been to events, like concerts, movies, or dinners, with people and had to leave early. The guilt is a powerful grumble inside me to not disappoint those I'm with. I often push the limit, just to stay a little longer. I'm glad I have understanding people in my life that will roll with the punches. They know its not on purpose, its just part of life.
     So this verse is not an easy one for me to swallow or to apply in my life. I guess you just have to do what you can. when you can, with whatever you can. God gives us opportunities and those setbacks help build character, test your responses, and draw you nearer to Him. You can't please everyone so just make sure God is pleased with you.

Not Getting Up

     I should probably postpone this blog till winter but this picture reminds me of the following story. We lived in DeKalb, IL so I could attend NIU for my senior year of college. My 2nd semester, winter-spring, started in mid-January. I woke up to the sounds of the weather report from my radio alarm clock. It was 30 below zero with a 70 below wind chill!  I waited to hear that school was cancelled. It never happened???  I held on to my southern weather roots and refused to even consider going. Know your limits and this was waaaaaay past mine. Turned off the alarm clock and stayed under that electric blanket till who knows when..lol. The following two days of classes were cancelled. I went the 4th day but it was still cold as ever. I was raised in the south and belong in the south..lol...for more reasons than just the weather, too. 
Sincerely from,
GRITS... Girl Raised In The South.

Love is Give and Take

     ''The love in your heart wasn't put there to stay...love isn't love til it's given away''

    This is a quote I got from my good friend, Twylia. I'd never heard it before and thought it was great. If love did stay in your heart and was never expressed, how would you be perceived? Loving or self-centered? Love can be expressed in many ways, even if you're not a touchy feely type of person. A thoughtful note, a helpful deed, a word of encouragement, a listening ear, an unexpected surprise, a daily prayer...thats just a few ways to show someone you care about them.
     When I went to the University of Texas in Arlington for one year, I stored my scooter in the Church of Christ student center. I made friends there and attended a women's bible study there. Sometime during the year, we drew names and each of us got a secret pal. It was very cool to come to school and find something every so often on my scooter.....a candy bar, a note, flowers, etc.  It just showed I was thought of and loved. Of course, I did the same for my secret pal. That's just as much fun, to give than to get.
     As the Coke commercial goes, 'What the world needs now is love, sweet love. No not just for some, but for everyone.'

[This blog changed as I wrote it because I had a completely different tangent that I was headed toward. I think this is a better direction...more love focused.]

Prove It To Myself

     Don't you find that things are easier to accept if you believe in its purpose? I've worn leg braces since I was 6yrs old. During the summer between 7th and 8th grade, I decided I didn't need them anymore. We are all geniuses as teenagers, right? ha.  All I needed were my blue Nike tennis shoes. It seemed to be a success around home until I went to band camp at Henderson State University. That required more walking than I ever imagined. I wasn't going to give in, I had something to prove to the doctor, my parents and myself. As the week was coming to an end, I fell and sprained my ankle. That was enough to show me that my braces were for my own good and protection. I'm grateful a sprain, not a break, was all it took.
     If you believe that everything has a purpose and is for your benefit, you will be able to accept and handle anything. Proverbs 19:21  'Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.' 

Weirdo Removed

     Today I went to the dermatologist and had a mole removed. The biopsy of it on my first visit came back as 'atypical cells.' So I was referred to a skin cancer specialist. He said today, it wasn't melanoma but just a weird mole that needed removed. They took a 3'' size football off of my abdomen. Dave Sanders called it a 'tummy tuck'...lol.  So far its been no big deal and painless.
     This was a very minor trial, if I'd even call it that. I've copied some truths from intouch.org to help you deal with the trials you face and how to respond. 

1. God is in full control of the timing and intensity of your trial and will not allow it to go beyond His boundaries.
2. He has a specific purpose for your suffering which you may not understand until it is over.
3. This trial will prove to be profitable if you submit to God and trust Him through it.
4. Trying situations are opportunities for faith to prove genuine and grow stronger.
5. When you endure extreme pressure with unexplainable peace and joy, the Lord will demonstrate His sustaining power to a watching world.
6. Your difficulties are used by the Father to produce Christ-like character.
7. God will walk with you through all trials.
8. The Holy Spirit will enable you not only to survive but also to come out a conqueror.

Its On Me

     Some friends of ours recently went to the Peabody Hotel's restaurant, Capriccio's, for their anniversary dinner. My dad brought up the memory of the time I took them there, back when it was the Excelsior Hotel, so I thought I'd share it with you.
     I'd say I was about 12, when I decided to take my parent's out for their anniversary. I had saved up money from selling vegetables on the side of the road in front of our house. I wanted to take them somewhere special and where they'd never been before. In the eyes of a 12 yr old, the Excelsior was a fancy and ooh la la place. We made reservations and went. I stuffed four 20 dollar bills in my pants. I was so excited and probably felt too big for my britches, lol. I told them to get anything they wanted, and don't just get a salad either, I had it covered. We had a great meal........until the bill came. My dad told the waiter to give it to me, not him. I reached in my pocket, NOTHING? the other pocket, NOTHING? Get up, look all around the table, NOTHING!!  I had lost my 80 bucks. Disappointment as my dad paid for the dinner is an understatement. We left our phone number with the restaurant in case they found it.  Yea right, how likely is that? Well, they called and had found four 20's in a wad. Amazing that they're are still honest people out there. Yes, I paid my dad back even tho he said I didn't have to. ''Yes I did, it was my treat and it's on me.''
     Generosity will last a lifetime especially if taught and shown by you at an early age. Giving to others is a great expression of joy with a priceless reward in return.

Whatcha Thinkin'?

"For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he." Proverbs 23:7a (KJV)

     Are you a dweller? I can be, especially if something is bothering me. Our thoughts are often a reflection of our hearts. If we think about what we're going to say to get back at the person who has offended  us, it shows our heart is in a dark place rather than a forgiving place. If we think about how to make someone's day extra special, it reflects a joyful, giving heart. People often lose sleep because of thoughts running thru their heads. Turn it over to the Lord in prayer and get a good nights sleep. A restful heart is a peaceful heart.

 Philippians 4:8, "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." (NIV) 

It's a Beautiful Day

     I was looking up another song to post for this beautiful day and found this one. I think the words are so encouraging. Today IS a new chance for you to make it a positive, rewarding day. We don't know what God has in store for us today but with an open heart and mind, we can accept it with a grateful attitude.
'This is the day that the Lord hath made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.'  Go out and enjoy it.