Grace

     Grace is unmerited divine assistance given to us for our sanctification.  It is when we are given what we don't deserve just because of God's love for us.
      2 Corinthians 12:9  ''But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.''
     Grace helps us to handle things that are not under our control in life.  We could kick and scream, be angry all the time and be a person not fit for company.  What kind of example would that be?  My friend told me, 'even tho your cough is part of your life, thank you for handling it with grace.'  That's a compliment that I hope to continue to display.
      Grace gives us an accepting peace that helps us to endure the rough moments.  Grace gives a calming effect on you and others, instead of panic and chaos.  God's saving grace is all we need to accept to get us through this race of life.  We must remember it is free, not earned or deserved.  'Grace is more than a prayer we say before dinner.'  It is a gift that makes us more like Him each day.
   
   

Credit

Job 21; 7-9, 13-16  ''“Why do the wicked prosper, growing old and powerful? They live to see their children grow up and settle down, and they enjoy their grandchildren. Their homes are safe from every fear, and God does not punish them.''

''They spend their days in prosperity, then go down to the grave in peace. And yet they say to God, ‘Go away. We want no part of you and your ways. Who is the Almighty, and why should we obey him? What good will it do us to pray?’ (They think their prosperity is of their own doing,
but I will have nothing to do with that kind of thinking.)''

    Do you ever question the fairness of this life, like Job?  He recognized this foolish way of ungratefulness and rejected it.  We too can get caught up in the entitlement line of thinking and consider ourselves as deserving. We think we can pick and choose the rules that apply to us. We are not promised earthly riches but should see every blessing as a gift from God.  

     When people think 'I've done it', its a misconception because we can do nothing without His help.  People often associate their value with their jobs or possessions.  What a weak scale to measure by? 

     Jesus says 'come just as you are.'  If you want for something, let it be character building qualities....grace, patience, gentleness, generosity, and humility.  If your giving out credit for things in life, step aside and give it to Him.

Only One

    I really like this quote.  I think this is a philosophy that everyone should embrace and live up to.  The 'poor lil ole me' frame of mind does not sit well with me.  We all need a 'can do' attitude, whether it amounts to a mountain or a mole hill in our eyes.
    When the idea of being just one person and what can I do comes up, I think of two people.  First, Adam's fall from grace destined sin to be in the lives of mankind forever.  That was a pretty big impact he made for our lives.  Secondly, God sent one man to save us from sin.. Jesus.  The One taught us, died for us, redeemed us and loves us.
    We can each do something and that is why we are each given different fruits of the spirit.  We aren't all the same and that is why the church body works together for the benefit of the whole.
    We can all claim 'interference', like in a football game, to blocking our actions but that shouldn't stop us from trying.  Make a play, don't hold back.
    You were made by design to fulfill His plan, go and do it without hesitation.

Shoney's

     Who remembers the all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet at Shoney's?  Yes, I know, my mouth is watering too.  Well this picture reminds me of a story about not always having it your way.
     One Saturday morning in Springfield, we were going to go out for breakfast.  I wanted to go to Village Inn [great omelettes] and Marc wanted to go to Shoney's.  He let my pick be the chosen restaurant.  It was good and we both enjoyed it, until the next day.  I saw on the news that a worker at Village Inn was diagnosed with hepatitis A.  Oh great?!  So everyone that had eaten there the day before had to go get a preventative shot down at the health department.  We went and thankfully never got sick.
      So that is a lesson on not insisting that your idea is the best idea.  Sure there was no way for us to have known but I'm sure we probably ignored a little nudge towards Shoney's, or I did anyway.  I think we often ignore little warnings in life because we want to do what we want our way.  I believe the Holy Spirit guides us but we choose to heed that direction or not.  Hindsight often pats us on the back for listening or kicks us in the rear for not listening.  Jesus said, 'Follow Me' but Sinatra sang 'I Did It My Way'...........you choose?

Being Watched

    So who hasn't hit the brakes as soon as you spot the hidden cop car?  We often have our own ideas of what a safe speed is regardless of what the sign says, until we realize someone is watching and could make us accountable.
    One night when I was a teenager, I was running late to make it home by curfew.  The clock defined my boundary more than that speed limit sign in my mind.  As I hurried down Hwy 107 at 65mph in the dark, my eagles eyes missed seeing that cop hidden at the church.  He pulled me over and said I was going 65 in a 40mph zone.  I had the tear factory on at full blast but it seemed to be of no help.  So I remembered to always ask 'if they have it on radar?'  I shut the flood gates and asked for radar proof.  He showed me the confirmed speed and the tears returned.  I took my ticket and paid the consequences.
     We often think we can get away with things but that is never true.  God sees and hears everything we do.  We may not see Him yet but that doesn't mean He isn't there.
Psalm 33; 13-15  ''From heaven the Lord looks down and sees all mankind; from his dwelling place he watches all who live on earth—he who forms the hearts of all, who considers everything they do.'' 

WAY BACK WEDNESDAY....HUNTING

     This is me at age 6 from when we lived in Sherwood.  These are two ducks my dad killed and this is as close to being a hunter as I'll ever be.  I did give hunting one try when I was older but my desire to eat my candy bar overshadowed the need to be quiet.  I knew then and there, hunting was not my sport.  Duck is the only wildlife I will eat but other than that it's beef, chicken, pork or fish.
      Many people are hunting for meaning and purpose in this life.  Until you know you were made by God and for God, you'll never understand life.  People that can see, are yet blind and those that hear, are yet deaf to what is really important.  Our target is heaven but our aim is based on our relationship with Christ.  Is your sight set on your future above or the here and now?

The Sparkle in You

     Here is another caption that certainly reflects a part of me.  Blue is my favorite color but pink is one of my favorite colors to wear.  If you add a little bling to it, voila, I'm sold on it.  I love fabric with sequence, rhinestones or any little kind of shiny addition to it.  I think it draws attention and makes it special.
     Do you sparkle in the Light to others?  Do others see you and say I want that?  When our thoughts are on godly things and not our circumstances, we will have a peace that others are searching for.  We are examples to others, whether we want to be or not.  May your words be crystal clear, your actions be like sharpening iron and your thoughts shine on the days to come.

Zechariah 9; 16-17  ''The Lord their God will save his people on that day as a shepherd saves his flock.
They will sparkle in his land like jewels in a crown. How attractive and beautiful they will be!''

''As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.''  Proverbs 27:17

As I Walk...

     As I begin this week, I can certainly feel His grace, mercy and love upon me.  I've had anxious moments this weekend about my near future but I feel reassured this morning.  Why do I doubt?  When things crash in and my sense of normalcy is gone, I tend to wonder 'what now?'  Reminding myself that my life plan has already been established and blessed helps to calm those fears.
     Who or what do we have to fear when God is with us and on our side?  Our trials strengthen us and the blessings are more appreciated when received after.
     I am blessed by a new helper today.  A caring, friendly sister in Christ who I hope to get to know better with time.  Change can be good and for our benefit if we accept it with open arms.

Scream

     I didn't blog yesterday because when I feel like I have to much to say, I know it is best to say nothing at all.  This face painted caption reflects my feelings the past couple of days.  I can't write about mercy, patience or forgiveness when I am all out myself.  Maybe I should go read some of my own blogs?
    Haven't we all felt this way?  The best way to keep my mouth shut is to think about my own faults and shortcomings.  [sigh]  I think about the fact that we are measured with mercy with the same amount we give to others.  Then I think, woah I'm in trouble.  My friend says 'mercy is not your gift.'  I'm trying to give more but it is not easy.
     'Blessings are mine, with ten thousand beside' is what I'm trying to focus on.

Allowed Where?

     'An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.'  Do you believe that?  Of course it's never too late to start but teaching the Bible to children is the best life guide you can share with them.  The government may block Biblical teaching but your home is a perfect setting to not only teach but to imitate Godly principles.  It can have a 'trickle down' effect from your kids to other kids at school.  The written Word may be banned in public schools but the power of a Godly babe's mouth cannot be shut.
    'Be still and know that I am God.'  Sometimes God uses hardship, like prison, to take away worldly distractions so that we may turn to Him.  I often think God allows people to be locked up not only to protect the city but also to protect them from their own destruction and allow some maturity to take place.  Prison ministry is a life altering chance for many to let them know there is always hope awaiting them.
    Why do we wait?  We are not born with a moral compass but must be taught right from wrong.  If we begin by building a firm foundation within our children, they are less likely to fall to the worldly storms they will encounter.  When they do turn away, lead them back to standing once again on the Rock.
    'When we are no longer a nation under God, we will be a nation gone under.'  Ronald Reagan

Way Back Wednesday.... Hair

     So here we are at Christmas 1988, or should I say HAIR we are... haha.  We all had more hair back then than we knew what to do with.
     Yes, we were all stronger back then in our younger days.  I was walking, driving and had the world in my reins.. or so I thought.  Both my parents had full time jobs back then and were after the American dream. Proverbs 20:29  ''The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old.''
     Yes, the hair has fallen and faded just as our strength has with time.  Yet we are all still here running the race of life for Christ 24 years later.  His grace and mercy has protected us and brought us thru all those years.  Isaiah 46:4  ''Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.''
      Although I think overcoming my past hardships is worthy of gray hair, I'm blessed to not have had to travel that road yet.  The 'fall out' was a rough enough road to endure.  Whether you can see it or not, my parents have attained their earthly crowns as they wait to one day trade them in.  Proverbs 16:31  ''Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.''

Don't Show It Off

     Have you seen more than you wanted lately?  Do we really need to know whether you're in boxers or briefs by the naked eye?  Isn't it called 'under'wear because it's not to be seen?  The practice of wearing your pants half down and your underwear half showing puts a spotlight on your lack of thinking ability.  Buying a belt or pants that actually fit will do you more good than just to your waistline.   Modesty is not a lost art.
    Have you heard more than you wanted lately?  Knowledge is good but only to a point.  Action speaks louder than words every time.  Some of the most recognized people on earth that are considered intelligent are totally ignorant on what's truly considered valuable knowledge.  It is said, 'when we open our mouths, we remove all doubt on whether people think we are foolish or not.'  Wouldn't you rather have someone show you what love is thru their life than just quote the verses?   ''But while knowledge makes us feel important, it is love that strengthens the church. Anyone who claims to know all the answers doesn’t really know very much. But the person who loves God is the one whom God recognizes.'' 1 Corinthians 8;1-3
      

Opportunities

    Did you pass on an opportune moment today or did you make the most of it?  Each day we are nudged by God to bless someone else with what we are able to give.  If we would take a moment to think about the hardship of another and act upon it, then the blessing is not just given but received.
    There are opportunities everywhere to be an example to others.  Taking cupcakes to my doctor's office today shows them that I appreciate what they do for me.  It's a little way to say 'thank you for doing more than just your job.'
     I cannot cook anymore but I can afford to buy a meal.  An older couple I know that have served in the church for many years are struggling themselves to stay at home themselves.  They are often overlooked and are not in the spotlight.  Taking them a meal today not only helps them nutritionally but lets them know they are loved and not forgotten.
     I don't write this to boast about my efforts but just to show we can all serve others in some way.  Showing God's love is an endless blessing to be poured out by each of us.

Temptation

     So my dad and I went to see 'The Bourne Legacy' movie today.  I don't know about you but the smell of movie popcorn to me is like a drug.  It smells soooooo good and yet I know it's a sure fire road to coughing for me.  So I try to get out of the intoxicating concession lobby as quick as I can.  I take my air machine with me now to movies and it's a good thing.  The only drawback is that it concentrates the room air into my mask so if I sit next to someone with popcorn, that is all I can think about.  Luckily, no body today was near with popcorn.
     We are each tempted by different things but if it is going to harm you physically or spiritually, AVOID IT.
'Lead me not into temptation.'

Debt

     Okay, so if I kept receipts, this would definitely be me!  Can I blame Walmart?  No.  Kohls?  Maybe.  The fashion industry for waiting 40 years to make clothes that finally fit me?  YES!  Permission must be granted to look in my closet to see the damage/investment I've done.....ha.
     I'm glad God doesn't keep receipts either.  He says 'love keeps no record of wrongs.'  Would there be enough pen and paper just for my list?
     I can say that all of my retail purchases are made with money I have and not on credit.  I don't like owing anyone financially.  I like this verse....Romans 13:8  ''Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.''  Yes, I am in deep debt to those who love me here on Earth but my deepest debt was paid on the Cross.
     Yes my collection of jeans is a longed for possession to make up for all those years of knit pants I had to wear.  My true treasures await me in heaven tho, that can't be moth eaten or destroyed.  Earthly treasures are trivial but what we do for Christ is eternal.
     Has your debt been paid or are you just making the minimum payment to Him?

Lying

      In the news today, ''Mitt Romney on Thursday accused President Barack Obama and his allies of launching personal attacks and perpetuating lies about him in TV ads.''  Now I don't believe either candidate is flame-retardant when it comes to lying in their campaigns but this statement from the press made me think of this caption.
      I don't think any of us are fireproof, whether it be a white lie or a bold faced lie we've told.  Some people lie so often, even their true statements are questionable.  Lying is often self-serving and denys others the right to make decisions based on the truth.  Lying also has a building effect and just perpetuates more lies to cover up the last.  Lying is a damaging force and can ruin reputations.  We've seen this lately in social networks and the power of slanderous posts about people.
     'If you always tell the truth, you won't have to remember what you said.'  The thought of that would clear alot of memory space in the minds of people.  God's word will always be true, consistent, unchanging and hold the test of time.  Isn't that reassuring to know there is something here for us that is completely trustworthy?

Proverbs 12:22  ''The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth.''
Proverbs 17:20  ''The crooked heart will not prosper; the lying tongue tumbles into trouble.''
Proverbs 21:6  ''Wealth created by a lying tongue is a vanishing mist and a deadly trap.''
Proverbs 26:28  ''A lying tongue hates its victims, and flattering words cause ruin.''

Way Back Wednesday.....Band Memories

     This is a picture of me at Christmas but the fact that I'm kneeling leads me to my story.  When I was in 7th and 8th grade I played the flute in band.  I think 7th grade was just a chance to try something new but 8th grade was a challenge all together.  I don't think I realized when I signed up that 8th grade was a marching band for football games. I can tell you everything was a stress and struggle for me; climbing the bleachers, the marching practice, the bus for away games and not to even mention actually playing the flute.  I'm not a quitter and I so wanted to be just like all the other kids.  Well then came the formation practice out on the football field and at one point, we had to kneel on our left knee.  The goal is to look uniform throughout the band but I couldn't kneel on my left knee, just my right knee.  So I had to be the odd man out and be different.  As I think about it now, I don't know why the band teacher couldn't have switched the chosen knee to be on?  I thought everyone in the bleachers would think I messed up.  Although that was a concern of mine, I was more focused on just getting back up while holding the flute in position.  Yes, my brain was flooded with what the world thought of me.
     So there are two lessons I want to point out from this story.  First, it's okay to be different than the world around you.  As Christians, we are called to not conform to this world but to be transformed like Christ.  My pride was really the only thing that was hurt in being the odd man out.  Pride is often what holds people back for standing up for what's right in a crowd.  Secondly, the world will not stop or change for you.  We need to  remember the world does not revolve around us but that's no excuse to quit.  We must press on and adapt as necessary.

Bad Taste

     I've always liked Family Circus cartoons.  They are simple, short and to the point yet have definite meaning behind them.  This one definitely reflects my eating habits, especially as a child.  I am one who wants to know what's in it and will usually try one bite.
    This reminds me of a mission trip my dad went on to Haiti and they were served a suspicious meat.  They were so hungry, they didn't care what it was.  Pastor Cebien said it was cuban chicken, which they decided might have been rat...??  So recently when I saw a Panera Bread sign advertising their 'cuban chicken sandwich', I just had to laugh and say no thanks to myself.
    This cartoon also reminds me of the phrase 'don't drink the koolaid.'  Yes, I'm referring to Obama's eloquent, yet bold faced lies.  Did I like it the past four years?  No and I refuse to swallow it this time either.
    Be cautious in what you take in, not only to your stomach but to your mind also.  Some things just leave a bad taste that's hard to get rid of.

Flexible?

     Okay, I know I'm not the only one who can relate to this caption. I've witnessed some of people's  inflexibility at times. I want things around here to go back to 'normal.'  Adjusting to a new normal is not an easy or welcomed idea.  We all have our own ideas of what normal is in our own lives and that routine is our comfort zone.
    We have things in our lives, like a car breakdown or a change in our jobs, that force us to change course whether we like it or not.  My friend the other day said  'as I've gotten older, I've learned to be flexible.'  I think that's the right attitude.. consider others besides yourself.  Sure you could have done things differently or maybe even better but you are not an island.  There are always factors to be considered beyond our own desires.
    Even God knows the way He wants things to be, He gives us the choice to choose Him rather than us being robots.  Freewill is God's way of being flexible, I think.  It is the inflexibility of our hearts and minds that keeps us from taking that leap of faith.

Hang It On The Cross

1 Corinthians 1;18  ''The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction! But we who are being saved know it is the very power of God.''

     This verse was in my daily Bible reading today and reminds me where to lay my burdens.  Every doubt, sorrow, worry, or anxious moment has been paid for at the foot of the Cross.
     ''Now I can trade these ashes in for beauty and wear forgiveness like a crown.  Coming to kiss the feet of mercy, I lay every burden down at the foot of the Cross.''
      I can honestly say God has won my heart and my trials are turned into victory thru Him and for His glory.  If you read further in the passage past this one verse, it talks more about our foolishness.  1 Corinthians 1;24-25  ''But to those called by God to salvation, both Jews and Gentiles, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God.  This foolish plan of God is wiser than the wisest of human plans, and God’s weakness is stronger than the greatest of human strength.''
     How come we can recognize how little we know when we get lost going from point A to point B, but we often think we know better than God or can do things without Him?  Arrogance needs to be humbled, anxiety needs to be calmed, and patience needs to be sought.  Where can you find such a peace-giving place?  At the foot of the Cross, where grace and suffering meet.

Timing

    Why now God, why now??  Have you ever thought that when something bad happens?  We never question when good things happen.  Sometimes bad things come to us to make us aware of the unknown so we can possibly take action.  Sometimes it's to remind us of our limited time we have here.  In all times, it is to draw us nearer to the Lord.  It reminds me of the song, 'Blessed be the name of the Lord,...You give and take away,..my heart will choose to say.. Blessed be Your Name.'
     As I found out today, my 3yr old cat Tiger has heart disease and suffering from a blood clot in her aorta. I pray that the timing of this is to make me aware of her condition and give her maintenance medicine in the future.
     God's clock is perfect and we are all subject to it.

FBF PRAYER REQUESTS---AUG 2012

FBF PRAYER REQUESTS......AUG 2012


MARTIN AND HANSY TUOHY

1. Evangelism at town square. Torben, Kevin and myself hope to begin evangelism at the town square on Friday nights, reaching out to the youth that are headed to the bars.

2. Discipleship with Torben. He has begun a Bible training study program which I am leading him through as we meet weekly. 

PHILIP AND SANDRA PRIME

A few years back Sandra and I were placing Bibles in doctors'/dentists' waiting rooms, as well as other places of business where people would be looking for reading material while waiting on some service to be performed. I placed a Bible in a quick-change oil business where I was told it would probably not get read (as you can imagine there was other reading material competing for attention.) Some time last year Rosio picked up the Bible and read while waiting on her car to be serviced; before leaving she jotted down our phone number. Nearly a year passed before she finally made contact with us. She studied for the first time yesterday with Sandra.
1) Please pray that Rosio would turn to Christ for salvation.
2) That the Lord would give us a renewed zeal for evangelism.

TED AND PRISCILLA CLARK

Pray for the salvation of the many who receive our tracts each day.  Pray for eternal results from the distribution of the Unshackled CDs.

Pray for the salvation of numerous people studying the Bible each week with us or with one of the families in our church.

BOBBY AND NAMATHA AVILEZ

1.       Our troubles with the “owner” of the House of Hope land continues. The latest is that she made a report to the Social Development Department and had them come visit us. They came twice and they said “We would like to have more homes like you guys’ in our province!’ Not what she expected! Praise the Lord! We have since forwarded a letter to the Social Development Department explaining the spiteful agenda of Wandee Cheunchooprai and her handler, Greg Wineman. Please pray as we seriously pursue acquiring a new property to move to.

2.       Pray for Wandee Cheunchooprai, that she would desist from stirring up our children at the House of Hope. She is the former staff, under whose name the House of Hope land was bought. As the legal “owner” of the land she has been trying to exert undue influence over our kids. Some of the older ones have been reporting to her since it looks like she is trying to make their lives easier (no chores etc) and ours miserable. 6 kids have left because of her and we have had to fire Namatha’s sister (the cook) and her husband, who has been doing Wandee’s dirty work and stirring up discontentment among the kids. Pray for the rest of staff to keep our eyes on the Lord and to walk in unity through the upheavals

Worth the Trouble

     Have you ever used the phrase, 'It's just not worth the trouble.'  Do we think first about how much it's going to take on our part to do something or do we think more about how much of a benefit it's going to be?
     Well when I think about the trouble I am, I hope that the caption above will be thought of.  Delightfully difficult is a good description of me, in that there will be adjustments needed when doing events with me.  I've known Charlene for over 10 years now and we have had our moments of difficulty, like machine breakdowns, and yet she still thinks I'm worth the trouble.
     On the other hand, I might be described as 'delightfully difficult' when I want things my way.  What I want  done may not be an easy task but being patient for it to happen can be more beneficial than harping on it.  I guess you might say the difficult will be accomplished faster, the more delightful you are.
     So when we think of helping someone as too much trouble, the verse 'Love thy brother as thyself' should remind us that we are all trouble and yet all worth it.  Cornerstone Bible Fellowship is doing 'Be the Church' this Sunday, where the members do something for others in the community that day.  Is it more trouble than just going to the church service for the day?  Yes.  Will it be a benefit and witness to others?  Yes.  Will it be worth the trouble? Yes.

Help me Lord, to notice
The hurting, sick, and lost;
Guide me as I help them
Regardless of the cost. —Schuldt

Way Back Wednesday---Before Me

     43 years ago today, my parents tied the knot in Greenbrier, AR.  They met at the Baptist Student Union at UCA playing ping pong.  The night my dad planned to ask my mom to marry him, the car broke down and disrupted his plan.  The ring was burning a hole in his pocket and he couldn't wait so he just asked her anyway.
     They look so young, huh?  Yes, you can do the math, 18 and 19. You don't make it this far without commitment thru all the hurdles that life brings.
     HAPPY ANNIVERSARY to my parents today.

Unexpected Trials

     Have you ever felt slighted for just being you?  Been judged by your cover?  Well that happened to me last night at Carino's in NLR last night.  Even tho I was the first on in the door with our group of five, the hostess totally considered me invisible.  Then when she seated us, she purposely went around me to give everybody else a menu.  She then asked 'does she need a menu?'  My mom said we could share but I demanded my own.  I mean is there a shortage?  Do people in wheelchairs not read?  I did not make a scene or issue of it then because we had company with us.  This is also not my first encounter with insensitive people so I just try to remind myself of the verse 'forgive them, for they know not what they do.'  We have informed the manager to educate and prevent further discrimination to other customers.
     Trials come in all forms and sometimes unexpectedly.  We overcome them with grace and a fault forgiving, grace filled attitude. [yes, that's not my strong suit]  Yes, it irks me to be thought of in a lesser sense than others but my strength and confidence in myself does not depend on their thoughts of me.

Starting Over

     I think starting over is one of the hardest things in life because we often do not like change.  We can't stand still tho or keep going around in circles, we must move ahead.  It may pertain to a job or a relationship but whatever it is, it requires strength and courage.  The end of anything is just a new beginning to something else.
     We've all started over at something and it's a scary, stressful place to be.  Our trust in Him is definetely tested beyond our comfort level.  We sometimes have to consider things that were never even thought about before and try new things.
      2 Corinthians 9:8  ''And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.''  If only we could remember this and reassure ourselves in those doubtful moments.
     So today if you are starting a new job or just starting over a new week, draw that needed strength from the One who provides for all our needs.

Wake Up To

  

     Does this look familiar?  This totally makes me think of two friends of mine, you know who you are, lol.  Our bark can be worse than a bite if we don't get what we need to start the day.  For some it may be coffee, or exercise, or a hot shower.
     A good start to your day is quiet time with the Lord.  Begin with thanking Him for another day of life.  Be grateful you could get out of bed on your own.  Recognize the day as another opportunity to glorify Him.
    Yes, you can do this with a cup of coffee in one hand and your Daily Bread in the other.

America

    America is the home of the bold and beautiful or the lazy and obese?  I thought this caption best illustrates our poor diet choices that lead to America's ever growing waistline.  Sure I like a good burger every now and then but its not an everyday meal choice.  Why has it taken so long for fast food places to offer healthy alternatives?  Apple slices have been around since the garden of Eden, right?
    I remember in the school cafeteria, there were two lines--one for a full lunch and one for snacks.  It was a common practice for kids to eat chips or a candy bar for lunch.  I don't think that should be an option.  There should be two lines for a real lunch.  I often ate a pretzel for lunch back then and then was starving by the time school was over.
     As you think about your diet, remember your Daily Bread.  We need to feed on The Word every day and progress from milk to solid food.  Every morsel will do us good.
     What if the caption above was a Bible with a crown of jewels for eternity holding The Light in one hand and a megaphone in the other while standing on The Rock?  What would that say about America?

Waiting It Out

     Good grief, I hate this.  I'm having to keep Tiger confined for her own good and it just about kills me.  I hear her moan and cry as to say 'this isn't fair.'  Now I have her on a chux beside me in bed and its  a little easier to bear.
     We are confined to this world for a while and we cry too at the unfairness.  It's comforting to know that God is beside us and looking out for our best interests.
     I'm not good at waiting on the healing process for me, but especially not for a loved one.
   
 

Empathy

     Empathy is the ability to feel, understand and be sensitive to others by vicariously experiencing another's thoughts, feelings and experiences.  Would you say you're empathetic?  I am, probably to a fault.  I can't see anybody cry and not get teary eyed myself, even if I don't know why.
     My cat, Tiger, fell down the stairs during the night the other day and has been at the vet most of the week.   She peed in her bed because she couldn't walk to the litter box.  I can almost guarantee you that at some point in your own life, you won't make it to the bathroom either.  If you don't believe me, a little pill called Lasix will prove my point.  She also bit my dad as he tried to put her in the cage.  So?  I refer you to the caption above.  I think patience was lacking and so is my sympathy--for him.  Tiger is getting better and hopefully will be able to come home tomorrow.
     Are you a good patient when you don't feel well?  Does a headache make you grumpy [bite]?  Does a lack of sleep make you short-tempered [bite]?  We all bite on occasion but if we show a little empathy, we might get a better response from the patient.

Way Back Wednesday......Christmas

     This is me with Santa at about age 4.  I picked this picture because today is July 25th, which means Christmas is five months away from today.  Aagh, I know!  Doesn't it feel like we just finished the craziness of the holidays not too long ago?  The shopping, the get togethers, the decorating, and everything else.  I'm not saying I don't enjoy all of it but it just seems to come faster each year.
     What we don't have to wait on is celebrating Christ every day of the year.  We should recognize His significance in our lives 24/7 and 365 days.  Some people are called ''CEO's'' because they only go to church on Christmas and Easter.  Now while those are important dates so are the other 50 weeks and Sundays of the year.  What if God only thought of you on those days?  He doesn't limit His faithfulness like we do, thankfully.  'His love endures forever.'
     We also don't have to wait till Christmas to ask for things.  The prayer line is always open and ready for your call.  'Ask and you shall receive, according to His will.'  We have a hard enough time waiting on God's answers, aren't you glad we don't have to wait to ask too?
      As Christmas does approach us at record speed, go ahead and be grateful with what you've already been given.
   

Try It

     Today's post marks the end of angie'sthat'sthat, volume 1.  I'm compiling all of the blogs over the past year into a book.  I can tell you that I started this blog from scratch and it is obvious from my first month of blogs.  As with anything you find a passion for, it has developed into more than I ever could have dreamed of.  I could have given into my doubts about myself, like Moses, and said I'm not a writer and who will even want to listen to my thoughts.  I think God opened a door for me tho and I've been blessed through doing the blog more than any reader.
     I want to encourage you to try new things that you've ever thought about doing.  The first step to anything is to try.  Don't expect to master it in the beginning.  Just see if you enjoy it and then it will develop from there.  I'm sure Picasso's first painting wasn't his best but he found a love for painting itself.  You may just find a blessing hidden behind your fear to try, so go for it.

COPD

     What is COPD?  It is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.  It is usually associated with emphysema and/or chronic bronchitis.  So it is often common with smokers or people who have been exposed to environmental irritants, like asbestos.  This is what I have too, but not from bad lungs but from weak muscles that keep the lungs capacity to work limited.  The best illustration to demonstrate to you the breath of a COPD patient is for you to take a deep breath, then without exhaling, take a second breath.   That second breath is what every breath with this disease feels like.  It does make a person easily fatigued but can be managed with the right lifestyle and medicine.
     'If you're still breathing, you can keep going.' Yes, sometimes I have to take a breather break but that doesn't mean you succumb to a quitter attitude.  ''In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.'' John 16:33  ''In His hand is the life of every creature and the breath of every human being.'' Job 12:10   Maybe with the weather being so hot and humid now, you can feel the increased effort to breathe for yourself.  It is one of those gifts we easily take for granted but without it we cease to exist.  I picked out the following verses to remind ourselves how much each breath of ours means, Who gives it and what to do with it.


Job 33:4     ''The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life.''
Psalm 39:5     ''You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Everyone is but a breath, even those who seem secure.''
Psalm 150:6    ''Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD.''

Are You Hot?

     There are just certain captions that say to me, 'that's so you' and this is one of them. Temperature turmoil, is this part of being 40?  A friend said today 'we're both the type who would sweat in Alaska, huh?'  Yes!  Last night, a fan was brought by my bed at 1am because I was burning up with the a/c on. I even have my own personal fan at church. On the reverse side, I can break out in goosebumps in a flat second too.  This happened the other day, I was freezing with a blanket around me and sitting on the electric blanket that was turned on high.  Am I weird or what?
     The fervor we have for the Lord can vary just as drastically.  Are you comfortable with the setting you have towards Him?  Revelation 3;16 ''So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.''  God wants us to be on fire for Him.  New believers often have a passionate way they describe the change within them.  We shouldn't lose that but cultivate that desire as we mature in our walk with the Lord.
     He covers us, like a blanket, with His love and without it we are bare.  May we always feel His touch and presence to know He's always there with us.

I Am..

     Sometimes the world kicks us down so far, we forget who we really are.  I thought this caption was a good reminder to get us women of faith back on track.  When we try to be the supplier of everybody's needs, we can tend to lose ourselves.  The day's tasks may seem tedious and never ending but we must see it as part of His plan for us.  We should be humble yet as confident in our ability to do His will as He sees us to do it.
     My friend came over without makeup and she said 'I guess you love me anyways, even without it?  Yes, of course.'  Real beauty is in the heart and shines through anything you can try to add.
     If you're feeling a little on the down side, remember all the benefits of being one of His chosen.  There is no greater reward than for Him to call you 'friend.'  He made you beautiful, worthwhile, and with a plan in mind so that you are never alone.  Cling to those good thoughts when the world puts you down.  When you're feeling down, look up for His faithfulness.

When It's All Been Said

     Well the other night, 5am, I woke up from a dream to find myself with unexplainable chest pain.  It felt like 20pounds of squeezing pressure all the way into my throat.  It was a short-lived but scary feeling.  It made me think of people who supposedly have died in their sleep but maybe they didn't and woke up like this before the end.
     It also makes me think of Don Moen's song, 'When It's All Been Said and Done.'  There are a couple of key lyrics. 'Did I do my best to live for truth, did I live my life for You?'  None of us are good or perfect but we can live a life of purpose with good news on our hearts and lips.  'Only what I've done for love's reward, will stand the test of time.'  God is interested in your heart, not your 401K portfolio.  These are the questions that really matter in the end and can give you peace to go on without fear.
     I think moments like these where you question if this is your time to go is a good pause time of reflection. Being calm in anxious moments can do more for you than most anything.  Your mind can easily turn worldly but keep your soul eternally driven.  Each of our days is fleeting by so make them count as you run your race of time.

Face Time

     Okay today's blog is a reader's requested one on electronic pacifiers.  Let me just say that no one is being targeted and I'm not exactly guilt free on the subject either.
     The world has definetely changed with the convenience of a cell phone at our fingertips at most any time.  Although most people have a cell phone, they also complain about the rudeness associated with them.  Would you go out to a pay phone at a meal every time you wanted to check your messages?  I think not, just the very thought of that is rude.  Checking your phone is the very same thing as walking away from the table.  There is a difference in taking a needed call and making a call that could be postponed.
     I think the most common irritating phone conversation is ''Hey whatcha doing?  Nothing.  What are you doing?  Nothing.''  Good grief, get off the phone and do something productive.
     As the world goes more and more high-tech and digital, we tend to lose the personal face time with people.  Sure social media helps us stay connected but online is no comparison to real life time together.
     Cell phones can be as prized as a 2year old's binky by some people.  As in every thing, moderation is key.  It's good to be available on your phones for emergency but consider when it is appropriate to use or not.
     I found these 10 cell phone commandments online and I thought I'd pass them along to you.

1. Thou shalt not dial while driving.
2. Thou shalt not wear thy earpiece when thou art not on thy phone.
3. Thou shalt not speak louder on thy cell phone than thou would on any other phone.
4. Thou shalt not grow attached to thy cell phone.
5. Thou shalt not slam thy cell phone down on a restuarant table just in case it rings.
6. Thou shalt not make the cell phone more important than the company thou art keeping.
7. Thou shalt not leave the cell phone ringing just to show off the “cool” ringtones or refrain from answering for that same reason.
8. Thou shalt turn off thy cell phone phone at funerals, weddings, yoga class, and anywhere it would be unacceptable to bring a screaming child.
9. Thou shalt not have a message intro lasting more than 15 seconds.
10. Thou shalt never answer your phone while you’re in the bathroom.

Way Back Wednesday---Riches

     This is from our family trip to California when I was 5.  This is just outside my aunt and uncle's house in Anaheim.  We had just been to a restaurant with a pirate theme and this was my 'Arrgh' look.  I don't recall anything from this trip to share with you.  I later went out to their house when I was older so I'll blog on that another time.
     Are you a pirate going after the riches of this world?  Sure there are nice things to be had in this world but not at all cost.  The crown of gold you want is not on this earth.  The best things in life are free and can't be bought or sold.....family, friends, and a life of blessings.  'Do not overwork to be rich.' Proverbs 23;4  ''Do not trust in extortion or put vain hope in stolen goods; though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them.''  Psalm 62;10
     We as Christians should also avoid a pirate attitude.  'I'm taking it. It's all mine.'  Our dispositions shouldn't be of a confrontational and aggressive manner but one of giving and sharing.  Does my body language in this picture seem very friendly and welcoming?  No, more like back off or else.  Sometimes our demeanor can shun people away without a word spoken.
     The pirate personality is a short plank off a long pier to trouble... watch your step.

The treasures of earth are not mine,

I hold not its silver and gold;
But a treasure far greater is mine;

I have riches of value untold. —Hartzler

The Bright Side

    Do you see your cup as half full or half empty?  Well, my cup runneth over and that's a good thing.  Negativity is such a crushing influence in life and should be avoided.  You can't have a positive life with a negative mind. The battle to be happy is a battle against negativity. Bad things happen all the time but how we internalize them, how we react to them, is what ultimately determines their final effect on us.
    The fear of the unknown can warp our minds into thinking that there is nothing good to be had from the situation at all.  That's not true tho.  There are provisions already in place for our needs, we just may not be able to see them yet.  Trusting that everything will be okay, just different, is what we need to rely on.  They say when God closes one door, He opens another but I know the hallway between the two is often dark and scary.  The Light of the world will get you there safely.
    So the next time your train of thought goes on the negative track, stop and rechart your course to the positive track.  'No stinkin thinkin.'  'Treat negativity like a duck does water, shake it off.'

Never Give Up

     What does 'never give up' mean to you?  To me, it means determination and perserverance.  I have been this very mouse so many times in my life.
      I think we can learn alot from this mouse.  Let's begin with setting a goal for yourself.  No one can achieve the things you want, for you.  It takes drive in you to follow thru despite the obstacles along the way.
      The mouse has also suited himself with protective gear for the obvious danger ahead.  'Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.'  Have the 'truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.  Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.'  We can stand firm in our faith, when we are prepared for the battles that are guaranteed to come.
     To the mouse, he also knows cheese is good for him.  So this points to the fact of never grow weary in doing good.  Galatians 6;9  'Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.' 2 Thessalonians 3;13 'And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.'  I cannot tell you how much doing for others will reap benefits for yourself as well.
     So if you ever hear 'never give up' from someone, remember it means many things.  Plan for your future with purpose, prepare yourself for the obstacles, and to do good in all things.

Who Am I?

      1 Chronicles 16;16-17  “Who am I, Lord God, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far?  And as if this were not enough in your sight, my God, you have spoken about the future of the house of your servant.''   Have you ever thought about this prayer of David's for yourself?  He not only has blessed our lives here but has our eternal home in place too.  I think of the lyrics, 'what can we give to you oh God for everything you've given to us?'  We are so blessed and yet we are so ready to throw a pity party when a little hardship arrives.  As the caption above states He is always there to save you from both the seen and unseen dangers of this life.  
     The answer to those first lyrics is 'we offer our lives to you oh God for everything you've given to us.'   God gets great joy when we use our lives to fulfill His purposes.  His peace will cover our anxious thoughts when we doubt our abilities to do what we've been called to do.  Isn't it a good feeling to sing 'His love endures forever,' when you can truly believe it, feel it, enjoy it and share it in your life?
     So when you ask 'Who am I?' remember that you are one of His sheep and the Shepard is with you, even with the wolves all around.

It Made Me Do It

     Okay, so this is a good representative of me when I'm on prednisone.  I do not share or split meals when I'm on this medication, like I normally do.  If I'm not busy breathing, you'll probably find me eating.  Yes, this steroid medication puts food on my mind front and center.  This is a common side effect of this drug but it may seem more pronounced in me because the change is so extreme.
     Do you have an excuse you use for uncontrolled behavior?  'The devil made me do it?'  'The flesh is weak.' We must distance ourselves from things that put us at risk for sinful behavior, whatever that may be.  An alcoholic once said, I had to give up everything that I associated with drinking in order to avoid the urge to give in to the sinful desire.  We all have the self-control needed within us but we must choose to use it.  Turning our burdens over in prayer reinforces our awareness that we cannot do it alone.
    'Do you know my Jesus?  Do you know my Friend?  Do you know that He loves you and will till the very end?'  Those lyrics are a comforting thought to believers.  The world is full of ways to side track you from the narrow path and it's easy to blame something else for our downfall behavior patterns.  Let us instead of blaming, give Jesus the credit for keeping us from the pitfalls of our journey.... till the very end.

How We Learn

    The way we learn is an individual characteristic, usually visual or audible.  I personally am a visual learner and have always preferred reading something myself as opposed to being read to.  Our brains just respond differently to things according to our genetic wiring.  There is no one way, right way to teach everyone the same thing.
    When witnessing to others, we must approach them on their level. 1 Corinthians 3;2  ''I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready.''  Sometimes our head knowledge can be so overwhelming to another person, that their heart doesn't even get touched.  Our words should be encouraging not boastful.
    Our lives are full of tests to teach us the lessons of life.  Wouldn't it be nice to learn those the first time, just like 2 plus 2=4.  Our learning curve is subjected to the fall of man, sin. Those trials and tests tho strengthen our faith thru adversity.  We see more clearly our need for a Savior, when we recognize our dependency.  From intouch.org, ''from God's perspective, suffering is what produces faithful Christians. If we all had lives of ease without opposition, trials, or pain, we'd never really know God, because we'd never need Him.''  
    The lessons will continue until all our tests are all over one day.  Keep learning something new each day from Him.

Way Back Wednesday...Stubborn

     Now does that look like the face of stubbornness?  I think not but there's more than meets the eye, I assure you.  I'd love to have this natural, sun kissed Coppertone tan with the sun bleached blonde hair again but I think I've only retained the stubbornness of this girl.
    One of the first signs of stubbornness is the clenched fist of a newborn.  The retaliation to be pushed out into a new world from the womb.  What is happening?  This cannot be good.  We all like our comfort zones and change is not usually a welcomed thought.
    How was I stubborn?  Well we'll just describe one story here.  At this same age, probably 8, my mom arranged to have my picture taken at an Olan Mills type of place.  I got ready in my blue tube top and shorts.   I thought I looked pretty cute and wanted to show off my tan.  This outfit was not what my mom had envisioned for a studio style portrait.  I can remember the argument but I don't remember how I got my way, except thru stubbornness.  It did turn out to be a good picture that showed off more of me than my clothes.
     Stubbornness can be a positive or a negative feature in each of us.  We can stand firm in our beliefs and stick to what agrees with our values.  We must not demand our ways on others but just let them hear an alternative view.  We are all too stubborn in our 'surrendering all' to the Lord because of our desire to do things our way.  Stop and consider today what your clenched fist is shaking at and try to surrender it to Him.

The Word

     I said I wasn't going to write this blog because there was just too much to refute, and yet I feel I must say something.  I watched part of Barbara Walter's special on 'Heaven.'  There were so many man-made theories discussed that I can see how an unbeliever wouldn't know what to consider.  A common theme throughout the program was about living a good and decent life.  The existence of both heaven and hell was questioned.  As a Buddist Richard Gere thinks heaven and hell are right now, depending on your life's circumstance. I don't think this program was necessarily helpful but instead a bombardment of man's ways of living on made-up knowledge to justify their way to a peaceful eternity.
    The Bible is the most tested, researched proven book in the world for the longest time.  Our questions are all answered in His Word.  For every false remark in this program, there is scripture to refute it. Look it up and investigate the truth. 'We are saved by grace, not by works.'  God knows how weak our minds and flesh are, that's why He gave us a guidebook to follow.  The arrogance of people to think they have it all figured out on their own is a death trap.
    Read, follow and trust in His Word.  Faith in yourself is worthless, Faith in Him is priceless.

Timing

     Well the forecast included a much needed rain today but so far it's a no show here.  We had the thunder but no form of water from the sky to go with it.  Does that lead me to believe it's never going to rain or does it mean just a longer wait?  God supplies all our needs at His appropriate timing.  It is our job to have faith in that promise and to trust that He knows best.
     Waiting on the right timing for things teaches us patience, self control and perserverance.  If it's worth fighting for then it's worth waiting for..whatever the case may be.  A friend is now between jobs and is waiting to hear whether God will keep them here or take them to a new place to live.  I'm sure the wait has not been an easy one.  Sometimes its easy to take the guaranteed road than to just surrender to His clear direction with time.
     We could disillusion ourselves with a rain dance by thinking we have any control over things.  We could rush decisions without the Lord's will in mind.  We should tho pray for our needs and trust in His provisions all the time.

No strength of our own, nor goodness we claim;
Our trust is all thrown on Jesus’ name:
In this our strong tower for safety we hide;
The Lord is our power, “The Lord will provide.” —Newton

Out of Patience

     We've all had times where our patience has run out with a person or circumstance.  The devilish side of us becomes more visible.  True for you too?  Okay well I'm going to share one of my stories on this topic.. yes, there's more than one to pick from, ha.
     As I've told you before, I developed a blood clot in my leg in 1996.  Well the doctor recommended putting a greenfield filter in my femoral vein to prevent any clots from breaking off and going to my heart or lungs in the future. I'm not allowed any sedation because it affects my breathing.  They said it was a simple procedure and practically painless so I agreed to it.  Well I don't know where they got this guy to do the procedure but it must have been from the School of Hard Knocks.  It felt like he was stabbing me with that filter every chance he could as it went thru my vein.  My patience was out the door and so was I if I had the strength to get off that table.  I didn't but I had enough strength in my left arm to throw the pulse/oxygen monitor across the room.  I was labeled uncooperative and sent back up to my room upstairs in the hospital.  The doctor came to talk to me about the importance of completing this procedure.  I insisted on some form of sedation before I'd agree to round 2.  They gave me something that they give pregnant women so its real mild but worked.  The filter got put in and I was loopy enough that all I cared about was where my nightgown was..lol.  Seriously, I asked that about 5 times in 2 minute intervals.
      There is a balance to be met between patience and strength.  Some times it's best to walk away and remove yourself from the situation.  Time to think can keep you and your devilish side out of trouble.

False Hope

     As I've regained some of my strength this year, I've ventured out a little more.  I can't say it's all been without a little fear of needing to cough.  So on occasions where I thought I might get in a compromised state of breathing, I've put my cough assist machine in the back seat of the van.  Just knowing it was there was a reassuring thought.  On all those situations, I never needed to use it.  Well, the other day I wanted to shop a little after eating and thought I'd feel better if I could cough with the machine.  Thankfully, I wasn't in a desperate situation because the machine wouldn't work.  The inverter wasn't supplying enough power to run it.  So all those times of driving around with reassurance in the back seat was just false hope.  My true reassurance and hope is in the Lord's protection over me.  The blessings we don't even see at the time should be counted along with the one's we do see.
     Are you riding the wave of life with false hope?  Are you counting on your good works, your wealth, or your status in life to save you?  Do you pick and choose to believe the parts of the Bible that you can reason out in your own mind?  These are all forms of false hope. Psalm 25;5  ''Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.'' Psalm 25;21  ''May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope, LORD, is in you.'' Psalm 31;24  ''Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD.''  Our only true hope is our faith in God thru His Son, Jesus Christ.  


    [From odb.org] “God has been my shepherd all my life to this day” (Gen. 48:15 NIV). Though clouds surround the present and I do not know what the future may hold, I have the assurance that the Shepherd will show me the way. My task is to follow Him in love and obedience, and trust each step to Him.

Waiting

     Do you think it's possible for any of us to really master patience?  I think I'm a patient person until something makes me impatient and then I'm back to ground zero.  Why are we in such a hurry?  We think we've got places to go, things to do and people to see.
     I can tell you every time I travel, I'm reminded why I'm not a traveler.  Oh I like to go to new places, it's the getting there that drains my patience allotment.  As we were at a standstill on I-40 from Memphis the other day, I had a whole conversation in my head about what I'd like to say to the highway department.  'I can't remember a time in my whole life that a drive to and from Memphis has been pleasant,' 'How come other states have night workers and we don't?'  Anyways, you can see how the mind can dwell on the negative.  My mind should have been on just getting home safely, instead of quickly.
     My patience has also been tested this week by being sick.  You can get sick at the drop of a hat but the healing process is a waiting game that drags on and on.  I'm resting, taking meds and have a prayer circle in place so when is it going to be over?
    As odb.org pointed out today, we need stops and pauses in our lives.  Just as stoplights and yield signs slow us down, so do trials in our lives.  We need those paused moments to let off on the accelerator of life and look to the One who controls it all.

Called to Serve

   
    Who hasn't had this feeling come across them?  You just sat down from getting all your stuff done and then you get called to do for someone else.  Too busy, too tired, too much for me?  We can always find an excuse but aren't we called to serve others?  Yes, 'serve one another in love.' Galatians 5;13.  Who is the greatest example of service... Jesus.  'The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.' Mark 10:45
    Whether we get an actual phone call of a need or just a whisper from the Holy Spirit, we should listen to that voice and act on it.  If you don't do anything for others, you may just serve as a warning to others on how not to be.
    The members of our body work together as a whole and so should the body of believers. Asking for help is a humbling act in itself so a gracious 'of course, I can' is the best response.  Remember, the chair will be there when you return but serving opportunities may only knock once at your heart door.