It's a God Thing

     Today is my friend's birthday, David Nosek.  When I moved back here, he was one of a couple of people that took me under their wing to make my transition smoother.  Our first outing was a Natalie Merchant concert.  It was fun to go with someone who enjoyed her music as much as I did.  We've also enjoyed movies, hockey games, new restaurants and shopping in Memphis excursions.  Friends are ones that even tho you may see them less, you know they're there and can be counted on no less.
     'It's a God thing' that David took the time and effort back then for me when I needed it most.  Showing God's love to others in whatever way you can is a great way to serve as a Christian.  Don't expect it to always be easy and problem free either.  David and I have unspoken of stories that shall remain that way but what's important is the friendship that's stayed intact through it all.
     Happy Birthday David.  I know God brings people into our lives with a purpose that He wants fulfilled.  Thanks for stepping up to the plate.

FBF PRAYER REQUESTS..MARCH 2013

FBF PRAYER REQUESTS FOR MARCH 2013

PHILIP AND SANDRA PRIME
1. Pray for our baptismal service on the 3rd of March. We could have 5 or so who would want to be baptized: Lilia and her son Pablo; A young gal Denise; a young man Jesús; another young man also named Jesús; and possibly a few more. Pray that the Lord would help us to give them wise counsel.

2. Please pray for the visa and vehicle situation here in Mexico.

Changes in the Mexican Visa laws are forcing all foreigners who reside (or plan on residing) in Mexico for the long-term, to apply for residency.  The new law is forcing us to either legalize (import) our van or sell it in the US and buy a Mexican one.

I have been told by two different agencies (non-government) that deal with the importation of vehicles that it is not possible to import the Bookmobile. I am still waiting on one other agency to finish their investigation into the matter.

MARTIN AND HANSY TUOHY

1. The vehicle we have been using needs new license plates to remain legal. There has been many delays in getting them. Please pray we are able to get them by the end of this week.

2. Till Easter camps we have will be traveling quite a bit on the weekends, visiting other churches here in MX. Please pray for travel mercies and ability to minister well to each of the churches.

3. Wisdom is needed as we prepare to pack up here in Puruandiro. Are we packing for good or just so that we can return once we have tied up loose ends in Denmark?

4. Salvation of young family whom we are studying with.I beg your prayers for my oldest sister, Carmen (the mother of Kena). Thursday of last week, 5:30 am, she fainted, felt from the second floor, hit a pot with her head, destroyed one of her knees, and God graciously spared her life! 

 

MONICA SERNATINGER AND QUICO

I beg your prayers for my oldest sister, Carmen (the mother of Kena). Thursday of last week, 5:30 am, she fainted, felt from the second floor, hit a pot with her head, destroyed one of her knees, and God graciously spared her life!
    She got stiches in her head, and last Friday had knee surgery. This week Quico and I spent a few days in Celaya helping care for her. She is doing well and her pains have resided greatly, and she told us repeatedly to have felt so loved by us.  I am still very concerned about her salvation. She is a very devout Catholic who confesses to have put her trust in Christ as her Savior, and that if she would have died, she is sure she would spent eternity in heaven; but also she will forever trust in the intercession on the Virgin Mary for her daily walk and eternity. I left some literature with her and she says to daily read Our Daily Bread devotional. May the Lord give her true understanding of Christ amazing and sufficient grace.
    My health and energy have been so much better. Thank you for your faithful prayers!!!

DENNY NORRIS
We are so grateful for how God is working among the youth in Cannon Beach. Each week we are meeting in the home of one of the church families (we usually fill up the host’s home) as we study through the gospel of John. Besides the Bible study, we recite memory verses, report on Bible reading, pray, have a question and answer time and eat a snack. There is an enthusiasm among them that is contagious… and the families in the church feel blessed to host them. They also have a passion for their lost friends and relatives.

Thanks so much for praying for the quinceañera celebration; the name of Christ was both exalted and proclaimed. Both the fifteen old year girl and her father gave their testimonies.
 

 

 

Waiting

    Who can't relate to this?  Hurry up is what's on everyone's mind.  Are we mindful of others when it's our turn?  I think some people think the handicapped stall is the upgraded area for all to use.  I'm here to say 'it is not'.  When there is a 5 to 1 ratio of regular stalls to an accessible one, you better wait for one of the five.  I am not very patient when I've had to wait on a person that could have used any of the other stalls and this one is my only option.   Your big purse, your tight space phobia, nor it being a phone booth makes you eligible as handicapped.
     'Patience is the companion of wisdom.'  Is it wise to lose our patience?  Not usually.  Our attitude during the wait is what the world sees in us most.  'The meek will inherit the earth' so we must humble ourselves.  Time will not wait for anyone but we must wait for the right timing in the impatient moments.

3 Important Bones

     There are 206 bones in the human body.  They all bear weight, make you stable and give your body it's form.  Reba lists three other bones that are just as essential to success in our lives.
      The wishbone.  We need hope in our lives.  We need something to strive for in the race of life.  'The reason the damned in hell cease acting toward an alteration of their state; despair has taken hold of them.'  When our wishes are conveyed through sincere prayers, they are more likely to come true.
      The backbone.  You have to stand up for yourself.  Your rights, your respect due to you and your beliefs.  Wishy washy is not an option with success. You either get in the game or get on the bench.  As I am often a patient in the healthcare system, I know standing up for what will or will not work for me puts my stubborn backbone to the test.
     The funnybone.  Life is not as serious when you can laugh at yourself.  A sense of humor is one of the most desired characteristics in a person.  A cheerful soul brings joy to others.  Laughter is one of the best medicines so  live, love, and laugh often.
     Enjoy success with these three bones that give hope, convictions and joy in this fallen world.

My Spot

    I think this caption is a true reflection of me the past couple of weeks.  I'm in my favorite place to be and eating everything within reach.  Do you have a favorite chair or an area just to call 'your space'?  It is comforting to be there and can conform to your body's needs like a glove.
    Now we do have to be on guard of becoming a couch potato.  'You don't have to move fast but you do have to move.'  A big risk of the flu is the development of pneumonia due to inactivity.  Pushing yourself within reason can benefit you as much as rest will.  It's a balancing act.
    As I miss out on the fun activities of this weekend, I will focus on the joys of my still moments.  I'm eating like a fat queen, I'm comfortable, I'm not in pain, I'm content with my circumstances, I've got my bed buddy [Tiger] by my side, and I have hope that this too shall pass

The Journey

     How would you rate your journey thus far?  Smooth, bumpy, full of detours?  We are each a product of our individual journey and it has shaped us in many ways.  I personally am an 'A to B' type of traveler.  I like to know where I'm headed and the shortest way to get there.  Life doesn't work that way, does it?  It is said, 'A truly happy person enjoys the scenery on a detour.'   Okay, that's never happened in my life..lol.
     If we don't learn from the pitfalls of our journey, we are most likely to end up in a rut.  The lessons of life are meant to teach us in our weakest areas.  I would say 'patience' is a big theme of mine and these two weeks of flu sickness is not a detour I would've chosen.  It has taught me to put my agenda on hold and let the Lord work on me...in His timing.
    Don't rush your journey and the process that is working in you.  You're right where you need to be.

Again?

     Do you ever think 'oh great, here we go again' when you face a problem for the second or third time?  I think we often remember how hard it was to overcome and how long it took, rather than the steadfastness of the Lord's faithfulness.  We remember the pain or hardship of a problem and not the glory that shined through it.  Strength shows itself stronger through our sufferings.
     'The Lord will provide' in all circumstances.  Our clearest view of the future is reflecting on God's past work in our lives.  Have you ever really done without?  Doubtful, unless a prideful heart interfered.  Everything happens for a reason, it's not coincidence.
     I encourage you to take a look into your past and see how trusting God overpowered any worry or fear you had with a problem.  It's like in the Footprints poem, 'Where were You when I needed You most?  I carried you.'

It's a God Thing

     Do you ever stop to think about where you were born and raised?  Of all the places in the world I could have been placed, I know 'It's a God thing' that I was born in the USA and the South.  There is no other country more free and blessed by God, despite the attempts to shut Him out.  It is the land of opportunity and people flock here to make their dreams come true.
    Being in the South has it's blessings too.  Seasons change but are here just long enough to make you ready for the next.  Southern hospitality is embedded into daily life that is a true southern comfort.  Sweet tea, how could I live without it?
    Hearing the struggles of third world countries, like Haiti, helps me be more thankful that God put me where I could thrive for Him best.  I was born in a small town, Conway, and I prefer being a lil fish in a lil pond.

Not Lonely

    I am a people person but that doesn't mean I dislike being alone at times.  We should all learn to handle being by ourselves and we will then be even better when around others.  I can feel more alone in a crowded room than an empty house.

    A lot of people feel the need to have some sort of distraction present to fill the silence of a room, like constant tv or music.  I think that can be a negative thing.  Are you ever alone with your thoughts?  Can you hear God's whispers above the noise?  Some people sleep with earplugs to get a good night's rest but sometimes we should try a daytime pair to block out the world.  

    Only when we are happy with ourselves can we make others happy.  I encourage you to 'be still' and get to know yourself and your thoughts in some quiet time.  God is with us, so we're never really alone.

Adversity

    When things are good, it is easy to go with the flow.  When faced with a challenge tho, it can take your whole armory to get you through it.  If you're smart, you know what things work for you and what works against you.
    I understand what this caption is referring to but it is hard to put into words.  Maybe because that heavenly spark is not all about us and our determination.  Peace from the Spirit can calm the storms in you enough to keep you from drowning.  Hope is a good promise to keep our focus on the positive side of the adverse conditions surrounding us at the moment.  Trust reaffirms our faith that 'the good work He began in us, will be completed.'
    Now if your spark evolving from strife isn't so heavenly, then impatience, anger, slander and harshness will surely follow.  We've all been there because 'no not one' of us is good.
    Should your spark be snuffed or put on the top of a hill?
     [Be careful what you blog about, you may get tested.  Our power went out while I wrote this...  adverse conditions to say the least]

Heart?

    I am reading a new book called 'The Almost Christian Discovered' by Matthew Mead from the 1600's.  It is as relevant now as way back then.  I've touched the topic of head knowledge recently but this book has a few ideas I'd like to share.
    Knowledge is two-fold, there is common knowledge and saving knowledge.  You can have knowledge without grace but not grace without knowledge.  What does that mean?  It means if your heart isn't in it and changed then the value of the knowledge is of little worth to you.  God may use it tho to benefit another person tho.  'Till the affections are made spiritual, there is no affection to things that are spiritual.'  It's just going through the motions.  It's like getting in a car, pushing the gas and turning the wheel but if you don't start the heart of the engine... you go nowhere.  'Saving knowledge joins affection and application.'
    'The preciousness of knowledge lies in its usefulness to the soul.'  The book uses Judas as an example.  All that he knew didn't affect his betraying heart. Take time to figure out where your heart is and then pursue the godly part into your life.
 

Computer Time

   Some people find computers a challenge in their lives but I find it challenging to do without mine.  I have the flu but the world doesn't stop and I need to keep in touch.  My laptop is my relay to my sphere of the world since I don't use the phone.  I am receiving prayers, well wishes and encouragement through my laptop so it's a blessing in many ways.
    I know we've all felt like Cliff at times, but just be patient with yourself and ask for help if needed.  There is never a dumb question.  There are clues that will point out your lack of computer savvy.. like saying 'www' before every website, pushing the keyboard keys like an old typewriter, or not knowing computer shorthand like 'lol' or 'idk'.  It's okay, none of us knew at some point.
    Part of staying young is keeping our minds sharp, so keep after it.

It's a God Thing

     I guess you've heard in the news about the Carnival Triumph being stranded in the Gulf of Mexico without power or common necessities.  I've been on two Carnival cruises and with stories like these, I think I'm done with them.
     In 2003 or 2004, Charlene and I took a 5 day cruise with some friends.  We left out of Galveston, TX to go to Cozumel, Playa del Carmen and Cancun.  Oh yes, you may be thinking beaches, sun and fun.  While that is true, it was not an incident free trip.  The night before arriving at the Cancun port, my breathing machine [my old bulky one that had to travel in a huge Rubbermaid tub] that I use to sleep with QUIT.  So here we are in the middle of the ocean and there is no sleep for me until we get a replacement machine.  We did have a spare one at home.. miles and hours away.  We called my parents and my dad took the first available flight out to Cancun.  He had to get there before the ship deported and headed back out to sea.  The 'God thing' is 4 fold... God gave me the strength to stay awake after a long day, my dad arrived safely and in time with the machine, God allowed me to postpone my needed sleep till that night so I could enjoy the one day in Cancun, and my true friend was by my side all along.
      Our plans may not always go smoothly but the One who directs my paths will see me through it.

The Narrow Way

     'The Way is narrow that leads to Life.'  We are all born onto the broad road of life but it will be few who choose the narrow path.  ''Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.''  Matthew 7;13-14
      I think the caption above depicts a few things about the narrow path.  Although some may conclude that it's boundaries are confining, it instead provides a sheltering protection from the world.  It is easy to follow the crowd but it takes true strength to stand alone.  To turn your back on the chosen path for you, takes a decision and effort on your part.  No one can walk or choose the road for you.
     Which road have you taken?  Are you headed for destruction or to eternal life?  Yes sometimes our journey has involved an exit ramp or two, but the U-turn involved is often stressful as we try to get back on the right and narrow road.  Look ahead and don't get distracted.

To Do List

     I think a good way to start off a new week is to have a plan or a to-do list.  It organizes our thoughts, sets our priorities and helps motivate us to get those things done.
    What if we remembered the above caption as an every day list?  I think our days would go alot smoother and definitely less stressful.

    Blessings are provided to us each and every day.  Shouldn't we recognize them with a grateful heart and not with an entitled heart?
    Kindness should be shown more than it is deserved.  God's compassion is our best role model to follow because the world is often not fair or kind.
    Control is not ours to claim.  We never had it nor will we ever.  Let the urge to control go and you'll enjoy a peace that comforts.
    A believer's heart is guided by the Holy Spirit so listen carefully.
    Your degree of productivity should be measured more by the quality of how you did it than how much you did.  'Do all things as if doing them for the Lord.'
     Breathe.........your breath rate can tell you if you need to slow down or calm down.  In any stressful situation, the first advice you'll get is 'just breathe.'

    What's on your to-do list for today?  We will get done what is important to us.

Princess Party

     It has been a very good Saturday morning.  Karla came over for the morning.  I received a very encouraging email from a friend who had read my blog book last night.  Then I got a visit from a houseful of princesses in their gorgeous formal wear.
     This month the tea party that Gloria and Charity put together was a Princess party.  The theme was outreach to others.  The girls all did their catwalk on the runway to show off their pretty dresses.  Twirls with flair, for sure.  As if their visit wasn't enough of a treat, they brought cookies and muddy buddies...yum.  I wasn't their only stop but they visited three other people.  I am glad I was a blessed recipient.
     Life lessons can be taught and include fun for all.  The effort it takes to teach manners and the importance of shining your light into the lives of others will reap rewards that are priceless.  Plant seeds of blessings in your life and you'll reap the rewards.

Stress

     Oh yes, that has been me on many occasions.  Even with the inability to drive now, I can be just as impatient from the passenger seat. Come on already, geez!!  I am a clock watcher and slow drivers are a common interference with that aspect of me.  I think driving under the speed limit is as bad or usually worse than driving over it.  Can I get an Amen?
     Do you know what the source of most of our stress comes from?  Ourselves.  Yes, it's a bitter pill to swallow but it's true.  The things that get under our skin may not even be a factor with others.  It can be odd when you're about to go postal and the person with you is as cool as a cucumber.  Don't they realize the urgency of the situation?
     Our priorities can help us put stress in its place.  Ask yourself, 'is this really worth getting all worked up over?'  Pick a phrase to embrace, 'love one another' or 'forgive them for they know not what they do' when your patience, over someone's actions, has reached its limit.

It's a God Thing

     How well did you sleep last night?  Did you toss and turn all night?  Often a bed that has been slept in overnight looks like a frazzled mess by morning.
     I started having to use a breathing machine to sleep at night about twenty-one years ago.  The type of machine has changed over the years.  The one thing that has remained the same is having to sleep on my back in one position all night long. Yes, every night for over two decades. You might be saying 'I couldn't do that I have to sleep on my side or move around or how ever you like to sleep.'  I thought the same things back in 1992.  The 'God thing' is the peace and rest He has given me each of these 7,665 nights to let go of my body's desire to move around.  This is what 'Be still and know that I am God' means in part to me.  He is in control and can give us the rest we need, when we turn our burdens over to Him.

What You See

     We've all been there with something on our nose, mouth, teeth, etc.  We've also all probably seen the evidence on others and pondered whether to tell them.  'Do unto others as you'd have them do unto you.'  Yes, tell them.. it should be a law.  Who hasn't been out and come home to discover some obvious embarrassment and thought 'why didn't anyone tell me?'
     What do you see most in people?  The flaws or the good qualities.  Colgate has a new ad out that proves people will notice something in your teeth before a physical deformity.  I looked at it myself and never even noticed the 7 fingered hand.
    Where is our focus on what we see and think of others?  Most people want to hide their weaknesses but it's not always possible.  Therefore, you embrace your weaknesses and they will make you stronger.  Our reactions to what we see as out of our norm says more about us than them.
     God cares more about the inside than the outside of each of us.  Is my body of 40-plus years and any physical hardware that helps me really going to matter in an eternal timespan?  No, but how you handle any suffering will.  So if anyone thinks more of your physical flaws than of you then they really don't know you at all.  It's their problem and loss, not yours.

Critical

    What was watching the Super Bowl like at your house?  We all can get high-spirited and enthusiastic about different things, some more than others.  I love to be around people that are excited and passionate about whatever they love, as long as it isn't disagreeable to me.
    The caption above sends more of a message to me about our criticism of others.  I know I've used the phrase 'what an idiot' more times than I can count.  I'm not saying it wasn't true, but it does speak arrogance.  When we think 'they should have done it this way, not like that' then we can come across as a know-it-all.
     Some people confuse criticism as advice.  They are not the same.  Advice is well intended and hopefully preventative to a downfall.  Criticism is negative, accusatory, and a hindsight opinion.
     I know we all have opinions and there is nothing wrong with that. When they become harsh and judgmental, maybe we should stop and take a look at our heart.  Not everything we think should come out of our mouths.

To Know Him

     I started a new book the other day called 'Not a Fan.'  It is about becoming a follower of Jesus, not just a fan.  The caption above relates to what I just read in chapter 3.  Simon the Pharisee knew all 'about' Jesus but didn't 'know' Him at all.  He had memorized books of the Bible but yet there was no application in his life, just knowledge.  Jesus was snubbed by him and not given the proper greetings for life in those times.  Who would be the one to show to be the true follower of Jesus?  The prostitute who walked up to the table uninvited, washed His feet with her tears and hair, and used up all of her oil on His head.  She surrendered all she had in pride, fear of embarrassment and valuables to show her heart was His.
     Knowledge without application is just facts on a shelf.  In Matthew 15;8, Jesus said the Pharisees honor me with their lips but their heart is far from me.  Do you have head knowledge without heart usage in your life?  What if you went to your child to show them how to use a fork and they said 'oh I know what to do, I'm just not going to do it.'  Yes, it'd be a teaching moment.  Jesus wants us to go on and do what we know to do too.

FBF MISSIONARY PRAYER REQUESTS..FEB 2013

FBF MISSIONARY PRAYER REQUESTS.......FEB 2013


TED AND PRISCILLA CLARK

1. Please pray that our little school at the camp will continue to be a blessing for all who attend.
2. We have had a record number of unsaved men working in the cappucino business this season.  Please pray
that this opportunity to share the gospel with them will have a daily and eternal influence in their lives.

MONICA SERNATINGER AND QUICO

1. Remember our dear sister Rosi in your prayers. She has been suffering with a sore in her deformed foot for over 25 years. The sore has gotten so big and infected that the doctors are considering amputating it. She begs to the Lord for healing, if it would be his will. Also, please pray for her financial provision. There is a slight possibility that she could get support from the SS since her dad is a resident of the US. She has begun the application process.

2. Recent contacts: We have been so blessed with the Tuohys. Please, pray for Johan and Claudia. Martin has started an evangelistic Bible study with them, and the whole family is so involved in reaching out!!! What a joy!! Also, please pray for my neighbor Vero. Since her mom, a Jehova Witness proselite, came to live with her late December, she has stopped coming to the studies. May their hearts come to Jesus!

LESLEY WOLFE

1.        Sure would be great to have the last three chapters of Mark comprehension checked and then sent to consultant by the end of March.  It’s very doable IF those who help me with the comprehension check are able to come as scheduled.  And I’d like to get as many of the remaining chapters of Genesis comp checked as well, and to my consultant during these next two months (only Genesis 27 thru 36 remain to be comprehension checked).  I have to say that it sure feels good seeing these two books come to this stage!

2.       Amy and Aaron have just had a visit from their language consultant.  Pray that the help and guidance that he was able to give them (Aaron in particular) will be followed, and continued and good progress will be made where language aptitude/ability is concerned.  

MARTIN AND HANSY TUOHY

1. New evangelistic Bible study with couple that seem genuinely interested. Please pray they do not get distracted from studying the Word and that the seeds would fall on good soil. 

2. We continue to seek God's will as to if we are to return to Denmark to stay or prepare to come back to MX long term.

 

BOBBY AND NAMATHA AVILEZ

 

1)      Please pray that we find the right builder that has his own tools. If you are not careful some people will pose as builders when they know fully well that they are expecting to sub-contract out the work making it more expensive.

2)      Pray that our kids would respond more to the prodding of the Holy Spirit than to peer pressure!

Don't Hesitate

     Well Karla and I were out saving yesterday.  That's our code word for shopping.  We had been in Target  buying our needs and wants.  While unloading our basket, she found my emery board that I intended to purchase.  She asked me if she should take it back in to pay for it.  I hesitated with my answer, even tho I knew the right thing to do.  Yes, I thought about how much time we had left and was it worth the trouble to have Karla go back in.  The devil was working quickly with my mind.  Karla interrupted my hesitation with 'you know God doesn't like ugly.'  We then agreed for her to go back in and make it right.
      Right is right and wrong is wrong.  There is no in between.  Sin tries to justify a wrong into an acceptable form but that doesn't make it anymore right.  Be quick to say yes and make all actions involving you pleasing to God.  Hesitation is only needed when preventing a wrong decision, not when doing what is right.

Remember

      We are so forgetful.  Who hasn't gone to the store and forgotten what you went for?  Who can remember the name of that familiar face without a panic moment of fear of embarrassment?  We need reminders for these trivial things.
      The list above is what God wants you to know, believe and remember.  His will is looking out for your behalf.  What is on your list to God?  I will trust You.  I will call on You.  I will praise You.  I will rely on Your Word.  I will follow You.  I believe in Your Son's saving grace.  The list is endless.
      Remember, where your heart is there you'll find your treasure.

It's a God Thing

     We are supposed to think of other's needs before our own.  Sometimes that is an easy task but other times it is a true sacrifice.  I don't know if I could do what was done for me in this story.
      When we moved into our house about 30 years ago, the previous owner, Mr. Finch, had a dog but couldn't take him immediately with him.  My parents agreed that the dog could stay and be picked up when he was able to.  Well if you know me at all, you know I can fall in love with a dog in less than 30 seconds.  Bosco and I were best buds immediately.  About 2 months later, Mr. Finch told my dad's uncle across the street that he was going to take Bosco home with him.  My uncle told him 'if you do, you're going to break one little girl's heart.'  I know it was a God thing that moved his heart to think of me before himself.  Mr.Finch lived alone and was a former POW veteran.  I'm sure it was quite a sacrifice to give up his long loved companion to me.  What a generous gift I received.  Bosco lived many years after that and was loved like family.  He was the first dog to get to come into the house.  He met me every day as I got off the bus and I looked for him as much as he did for me.

Who is in Control

     Tonight we are expecting severe weather with possible tornadoes.  It is wise to be aware and prepared but not to be overly anxious about it.  What will be is in God's control.  We can take physical cover but there is no greater cover than to pray for His protection over you.
     We must remember that His control is consistent, reliable and never failing.  The earth is defined by physical laws that we count on and plan our days by.  Who makes the sun rise and set?  It's certainly not BillyBob down in some hideaway control room.  It is the Creator and Controller of all things.
      Do you still think you're in control when you sleep at night?  I can assure you that God brought you into this world and He can and will take you out one day.
      As much as we think we would like to be in control, I think it is comforting to know we are not.

For the Week

    My focus has been off lately.  They say 'don't sweat the small stuff' but that's more easily said than done.  Isn't it the little irritations of daily life that get us so worked up?  It makes me think of the song lyric 'where is the love, the love, the love?'  Well I can surely tell you, don't look to me.
    The ultimate show of love should be our focus and is found on the Cross.  Why did Jesus have to die?  We are born with a separated relationship to God because of our sin and sin nature.  Jesus was the innocent sacrifice who paid our sin debt with His blood.  There is no forgiveness without a blood sacrifice,  the Bible says.
    So when you're critical of others, remember how much it cost to forgive you.  We all fall short  and need a Savior who forgives all.

To Love

    We don't have to wait till Valentine's day to show our love, nor should we.  God tells us 'to love one another' as a direct command.  He doesn't say when the time is right or when you feel like it.  He wants love to be shown thru all our actions.  'Without love, we are just a clanging gong.'
     I'm no expert on love and have yet to meet a human that is.  So going to the Bible is the best resource for help on advice.  Above are ten ways on how we can express our love to friends, family or strangers.  If we could only remember these and apply them in our daily lives, would there be peace on earth?
     'All you need is love, love is all you need.'

Your Witness

     How would you define your witness to the world?  If a stranger could define you in five words, what would they be?  As Christians, we should be in a process of transformation of becoming more like Christ.  You should be better than you were yesterday or at least learned something from it.  We don't change that quickly, do we? 

    I want to give two examples of people I do not know but was a witness to their walk.  Our reactions to bad situations can affect our witness to others.

    The other day my dad and I were in Kohl's waiting for a worker to find the flashlights that were on sale.  Another lady was waiting on customer service too and she was fit to be tied.  Her anger was as obvious as the smoke coming out of her ears.  As we checked out, I heard the worker apologize for the problems she encountered.  The lady then said 'well I'm sorry for yelling.'   Do our problems justify the means in which we get them solved?  No, Jesus never threw a hissy fit.

     Back during my cruising days, I was driving down Camp Robinson but looking backwards at some cute guys.  I totally rear ended the car in front of me.  It was totally my fault and I was ready for a blame-filled, tongue lashing.  The man got out and I let him speak first...maybe, hopefully I said I'm sorry first.  He looked at the cars and said, 'I don't see any damage.'  Are you sure?  We agreed no harm, no foul and I high-tailed it out of there for the night.  Being in the right doesn't always justify retribution but forgiveness pays off a greater reward.

     May your witness to the world be the same as the one you want it to be in your heart and mind.

Winter

     Yes, I know it is January and this cold weather is to be expected.  I don't have to like it but just endure it.  This too shall pass, however so slowly it seems.  The temperature today is lower than my age so it's going to take a fire or a really good sale to get me out of the house.  I don't like to bundle up because it interferes with my ability to move.
     We can endure, tolerate and survive through more than we think we can.  My two years living in the Chicago area is proof of that.  I thought I was a frozen dead woman walking up there in the land of no sweet tea.
     I feel for the homeless, both human and animals, on days like these.  Be sure to be thankful for the things we often take for granted...heat, power, shelter, warm clothing and security.

It's a God Thing

   
    Are you aware of God's protection over you all the time?  I saw a sticker on a car the other day that said 'Faith 247'.  It took me a minute for me to realize that it meant that their faith was 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  It is in the moments that we didn't even realize we were vulnerable, that we can thank Him for the never failing protection He provides.
     In 1993, we moved from Dallas, TX to DeKalb, IL.  At the time, we had a brown boat of a car and a sportscar.  With the use of a Uhaul tow bar, we towed the sportscar.  We stayed overnight in Little Rock to visit and rest halfway.  We headed out the next day for the long drive and the less than desirable destination of the land of the frigid.  We stopped in a town [I can't remember the name] in Illinois about 3 or 4 hours short of our destination.  When we stopped to park, the tow bar hitch fell off the car.  Whoa, that was the 'God thing' moment of protection for us and others on the road.  What if it had come off while going 65mph down the highway?  You can just imagine the horrific possibilities.  Even tho it was hard for me, God gave me the strength to drive the car the rest of the way.  We weren't about to trust that tow bar again.
     There is no greater or safer place to be than in God's protective hands.

Praying for the President

    As Christians, we must accept the leaders that represent us in government.  God has allowed them to have  authority in their position.  We can, however, pray for them.
    President Obama claims with his mouth to be a Christian but yet his actions speak otherwise.  I'll let God be the judge of that because He knows the heart.
    I hear it often said 'We need to pray for our President and leaders.'  I also know we are to be specific in our prayers.  I found the following list on how to pray for the President on intouch.org.  I hope our prayers speak louder than our votes.

1. Realize his personal sinfulness and daily need of God’s cleansing power.

2. Recognize his personal inadequacy for the task and therefore depend upon the Lord.

3. Reject all counsel that violates spiritual principles and then trust the Lord to validate him.

4. Resist pressure from individuals or special interest groups that would have him act in violation of his conscience or godly principles.

5. Work at reversing our country’s trends toward socialism and humanism, both of which dethrone the Lord and deify man.

6. Be ready to forsake his political career and personal ambition for the best interest of the nation.

7. Rely upon the Word of God as his source of strength and key to success.

8. Bring dignity, honor, trustworthiness, and righteousness to the office of the presidency.

9. Be a good example, especially to the fathers and sons of the nation.

10. Be reminded daily that he is accountable to Almighty God for his attitudes, actions, and motivations while in office.

Right to Life

    God creates life and God ends life.  Anyone that interferes with either, commits murder.  Today was the March for Life walk here in Arkansas.  The unborn babies need a voice to speak for their right to live.  I think the woman's 'right to choose' ends with prevention.  After that, your choice is the chance you took to change your life.  Every life is a blessing and irreplaceable.
    Psalm 139:13  'For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.'

Till Tomorrow?

     Which do you prefer?  'Don't do today, what you can put off till tomorrow.' or 'Don't put off till tomorrow, what you can get done today.'  Well that depends on what it is, right?  Is it a priority to you or an eye sore that bothers you?  There are some things that can be delayed but eventually it will all catch up with you.  Like the dishes, you can refuse to wash them but soon there won't be a clean dish in the house.. your time is up.
     Our lives are on the clock and we don't know when the alarm will sound.  Are you prepared?  The decision to believe in God's only Son is one that many people foolishly think they can delay.  Tomorrow is not promised to us, but yet we so often take it for granted.
     My eternal future is secure in the One who paid my debt for me.  You can't pay it yourself so start today in trusting the One who has prepared the way for you.

What We See

     Perspective is how we see things.  Is it always right?  No, of course not.  We are biased, influenced and tainted.  I think it is interesting to hear someone else's comments on the same thing I just heard or saw.  It can open my eyes or ears to something I totally missed.
    Negativity can become a bad habit.  'You must learn a new way to think before you can master a new way to be.'  Do we look for the good in things or the troublesome parts?  I think life is like a rose, it has thorns so we will handle it with care and still get the beauty out of it.
    How do you turn a negative into a positive?  It's as simple as math, add positivity. -1 plus 2=1  So for every negative comment you hear, counter them with two things on the bright side.
    May you see the bright side of the ugliest days and share it with those who need glasses.

Christmas Recital Songs

'Bring the Rain' by Mercy Me

'Behold The Lamb'

It's a God Thing

    In May of 1989, I came home early from school one day not feeling well.  As I lay on the couch, my fever climbed and I got progressively worse very quickly.  My parents took me to the ER at Memorial Baptist Hospital.  It was there that I was admitted to the hospital with my first bout of pneumonia.  [I do not remember most of the rest of this story so this is my mom's recollection of events.]  I could not go to sleep and yet I was so tired.  At about 2am, the nurses or doctor decided to give me a little bit of oxygen.  I went to sleep immediately.  After about 30 minutes, my mom had a feeling that she should wake me up to check on me.  This was the 'God thing' moment because she should've been asleep herself and she had no cause, other than the feeling, to wake me up.  Normally, I wake up at the slightest noise or interruption.  This was not the case here.  My mom pushed the nurse call button as she struggled to get me awake.  When I did come to, my eyes were rolled back in my head.  I tried to talk but couldn't and whatever I did say made no sense.  The nurse ran in and then out to get help.  By the time they came back, I was coming around.  They removed the oxygen and the next morning the doctor drained over a liter of fluid off my lungs.
     So what happened?  We breathe in oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide.  Because of the neuromuscular disease, I don't breathe out sufficiently to get rid of the carbon dioxide and that leads to poisoning.  Carbon dioxide build up puts you to sleep and turns off your body's natural response to wake up.  It's very dangerous.  The oxygen level in your blood will be fine but without a blood gases check of your blood, it can go unnoticed.  It can cause brain damage or death without intervention.
     So don't ignore your gut feelings, it could be God nudging you.  The results could be life-saving.

Trust and Proof

     I lived in the 'Show Me' state, Missouri, for six years.  Show me is our desire to see the proof in the pudding.  I think the world is so fallen that trust has to be earned with proof so that you can trust in something.
    When we start out as babies, we are helpless and have to trust our parents.  With time, we are shown their love for us.  We don't come out of the womb with a check of their resume to see if they're qualified.
    I think God knew our show-me thoughts and provided a form of proof thru the Bible.  We must not just study the Bible but apply it and trust will grow.  So often tho, we are like the Israelites.  We grumble, God provides, then we forget the blessing, and doubt Him in the next trial.
   We are not just sinners but helpless sinners.  There is nothing we can do on our own, ie. good works, to save ourselves.  We must trust in the Savior who was sent to be our only help.  Your life is proof He cares for you but does your life prove you care for Him?

Service

    We have all received bad or no service at a restaurant or a store. We complain with  ''Isn't there anyone working here that can help me?''  We want others to be there and do for us, especially when it's their job.  Patiently waiting is a rare quality in the human race.

    Isn't it our job to work for the Kingdom?  Is God patiently waiting for you to get started?  The song is true, 'there is joy, joy, joy in serving Jesus.'  There is such a rewarding feeling that comes from helping another soul.

    Right now the men from my church are in Mexico helping build apartments for the Camp Berea outreach program. Yes, it requires time off work, volunteer labor and costly supplies.  When you ask God to 'make me a servant', then you do it willingly with the right heart.  You don't grumble and say 'oh what's this going to involve.'

    'Do unto others as you'd have them do to you.'  Putting yourself in the place of others in your mind will help you see their need and spark your heart to fill that need.

Listen Up

     Our minds are often very forgetful and yet are very good at playing our own thoughts over and over. We do a good job at reaffirming ourselves, despite any contradiction. God doesn't speak to us like he did with those in the Bible but He does have His ways.  The Holy Spirit is one way and can guide us, if we listen.
     I think 'Yes, but' is often our response even when we do hear Him.  We want to do things in our own way, instead of His.  We think a little modification will still be within the boundaries but that's not true.  Cain thought his offering from the ground was close enough to what God asked for.  No, it had to be an offering that was a blood sacrifice and that's why Abel's offering was pleasing and acceptable to God.
     Go to the Scriptures to reaffirm your thoughts.  You could be right or you could be wrong, prove it to yourself.

My Wishes

    My wishes are my prayers for you today and always.  Sometimes all you can do for someone else is pray for them.  If you know a prayer warrior, I recommend getting on their list and becoming one yourself.
    There is great joy in praying for others.  You may see the results without them even knowing it was an answered prayer.  It also takes your focus off yourself, which is a good thing.
    You will be blessed when you ask for others to be blessed.  It's a win-win situation.

Trust God

    Are you a worry wart?  Worry is like a rocking chair, it gives you something to do but gets you no where. I've never known anything to change because I worried about it.  Now turning my worries into prayers is a different story.
    Do you trust God to take care of your problems?  Many would say yes but I think our doubts arise from whether we will find His solution to our liking.  If I ask, will He provide what I want and the way I want it?  We have to ask and trust 'according to His will', not our own.
    Abraham surely didn't like the idea of sacrificing his only son, but he trusted God's word completely.  Abraham's life of faith was lived without an acceptable factor to him but one of trust in God's word and promises.
Matthew 6:34  '' Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.''
 
 

Both Wrong

    I am reading a book this year called 'The Stranger on the Road to Emmaeus.'  It brought up something I had overlooked.  Where was Adam when the serpent talked to Eve?  I had just assumed that he was in the garden of Eden somewhere but that she was alone.  The Bible says differently, 'he was with her.'  Eve gets most of the blame even tho it's referred to as Adam's curse or fall.  Genesis 3;6  ''When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.''
    So instead of playing the blame game, we should recognize that they were both guilty of disobeying God.  They both doubted God's word. We often want to put the blame somewhere else for our own transgressions.  It's easier that way than taking responsibility.  Free will makes it so that we are not controlled robots so therefore we alone are responsible for our sinful choices.  Yes, we all sin and are with a sinful nature but we will each face judgement alone.

It's a God Thing

    With so many people sick right now, I thought a blog post on one of the many times God has been there for me during an illness would be appropriate.  It confirms the three characteristics that He alone has... all-knowing, all powerful, and ever-present.
    When I was married, we lived in an apartment in Naperville, IL during 1994-95.  Sometime during that winter I got the stomach flu.  I've never had a case of it so bad and hope to never again.  I was home alone and went to our second bathroom off the kitchen.  I was sitting on the commode with my head on the vanity and feeling pretty awful.  Without knowing it, I passed out.  When I came to, everything looked strange and I didn't know where I was at.  I soon realized I was upside down in the bathtub and looking up at the under side of the tub's spout.  My shoe was caught on the corner of the vanity and I was still on the toilet.  Yes, both an uncomfortable and panic moment.  I can't remember exactly, but I think I wiggled my foot loose to get unstuck.  I'm still in the bathtub on my head.  My 'its a God thing' moment was that I used the shower curtain and rod to pull myself up and out of there.  We all know how flimsy those are so I know He gave both me and the curtain strength at the needed time.  I can also say 'its a God thing' that I didn't bust my head open during the fall.  After all this, I made it to the phone and Marc came home.  We spent the next few days suffering the virus together.
     We will suffer through sickness in this world but we are never alone.  He is there, He knows, and He provides the strength needed to get thru it.

One, Two... and Three?

     Okay so I can do the first two things in this caption with no problem, but the third does just about kill me at times.  Giving grace is not my specialty.  'Always be kinder than you feel' is a good starting place.  You may feel irritated by a mistake someone made but if we remember our own faults then a little grace will soften your blow.
    Now I'm not gracious like Princess Diana or Grace Kelly either.  I think I was in dance class for about two weeks before the teacher recommended that I switch to baton class.  Some of us just don't have the genes to walk on air but instead we stumble thru the best we can.
   'His grace is greater than your sins.'  There is no limit on what the grace of God can cover.  'His grace is sufficient.'  He will not take you further than His grace will carry you.  It is an amazing grace.

Prayer and Trouble

    Nobody likes to be called upon by someone else just when they are needed for something.  Wouldn't you agree?  It makes a person feel used and unappreciated.  Life is about give and take, not a one sided entitled-to attitude.
    God is more forgiving than we are and will never turn us away.  He is always there for us, even if we rarely turn to Him.  The trouble with that is that we miss out on so much when we don't seek His help.  Don't they say 'two is better than one' and Who better to be tied to than Him?
    Prayer is not just a 911 line of communication.  It is a place to thank God for all He has done for you.  It is a source of peace.  It is a way to express your concerns for others.  It is a love offering to your Father in heaven.  It is a place of repentance and forgiveness.  It is where you show your dependence on Him.

Love to See This

     I don't think I have the words to express enough how much I love this idea and wish it could happen.  There is no excuse to be a bad owner of animals.  Don't own them if you can't care for them with love and respect.  I think if 'love one another' was meant just for mankind, then God would've said 'love your fellow human.'
     Animals are a great example of forgiveness so I'm not sure how many folks would be in the pound.  Some people complain about the loud barking of dogs but they really aren't the ones to blame, but the owners are.  Is it hungry, thirsty, or given attention?
    'All creatures great and small, God created them all.'  We have a responsibility to watch out for them, protect them and speak up for them when they are mistreated.

Prize

    Are you searching for the prize of life?  I'm like the raccoon and want to see what I've won before messing with the carmel popcorn. Well unlike this raccoon, we have to finish the box of life before we get our reward.  The Bible helps us have an idea of what is ahead.
   Our relationship with Christ is our continuous prize.  Every day is a new gift that we get with unexpected rewards.  Do we see each day, as a box with a desired prize or a bummer, throwaway box?
   Our journey through the box of life will come to an end one day.  Will you have enjoyed it all or will there be a few kernels left unpopped?  Share everything that you've been blessed with.. food, clothing, shelter and most importantly, the Good News.

Forever

     What does 'forever' mean to you?  It could be the long line and wait at the DMV.  It could be your lifetime as you know it. Forever is time and beyond to infinity.  There is no limiting factor.
     The Bible says over and over 'His love endures forever.'  There are at least three ways He proves this to us daily.
     'Forever You are faithful'  God and His promises never change.  God will never let us down.  He will never cheat us from the good things He wants for us in our lives.  Psalm 117:2  ''For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Praise the LORD.''
     'Forever You are strong'  God never has a weak moment.  His power and strength created and sustains all things.  Psalm 136:4-5  '' to him who alone does great wonders, His love endures forever. who by his understanding made the heavens, His love endures forever.''
     'Forever You are with us'  He will never forsake us or leave us. Psalm 138:8  ''The LORD will vindicate me; your love, LORD, endures forever— do not abandon the works of your hands.''
      So the next time you think something is taking forever, think about how much time God has invested in you.

Never Too Old

     Isn't it funny how our age can sometimes define us?  When we are young, we can't wait to grow up so we can do whatever we want to.  Then at some age point, we decide we are too old to do what we'd like to.  Do we think we are only useful during the peak years of our lives?

     A quote from one of my favorite movies is 'Get busy living or get busy dying.'  That is so true as we are not mere statues to be gazed upon. We have an intended purpose.  Jeremiah 1:7  ''But the LORD said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you.''

     In the quote above by C.S. Lewis, we are reminded to never give up on looking forward in life and to continue to improve ourselves.  We stay young by the renewing of ourselves and our minds.  Old, crotchety people are often defined as 'set in their ways' or 'they'll never change.'

     So if you want to keep living, you need to keep moving.  The race is worth running and just because you quit, doesn't mean it's over.  No matter what you think, the years before and after your peak are not bleak.

It's a God Thing

     This is my new Wednesday weekly segment for 2013.  God is definitely involved in our lives all the time but there are certain special moments that we can clearly see God's handprint.  I want to spend the 52 weeks of this year sharing with you these stories from past or present times in my life.  Giving God the credit and glory is my goal.
     So I will begin with the recent Christmas snowstorm of 2012.  It was the first snow on Christmas since 1926 and it was a whopper, 10 inches here.  At Christmas dinner in the basement, we prayed that our power would not go out to keep us warm and to keep my air machine powered.  There were over 100,000 homes across the state without electricity.  We were humbled and grateful that we only lost power for 15 minutes during the week of outages. I know 'It was a God thing' and I am truly grateful.  When so many friends were without power, you can see your own blessings more clearly.

Draw Closer

     I thought this was a good caption to start the new year with.  If we consider today to be a new start to our lives then let's begin with a closer walk with Thee.  Before we even know what this new year will bring to try to distract us, we should try to engage in practices that enrich our lives more and more with God's presence.
     How?  When you have Scripture memorized, it can help comfort you during a trial.  When at a crossroad, verses can steer you into making the right decision.  Prayer or talking with God can help relieve you of the burdens you bear.  It's an open line of communication that hears your cry and always has the right response.
   'God wants full custody of us, not just weekend visitations.'  Are you walking with Him or is He dragging you kicking and screaming?  'Those who walk with God always reach their destination.'  'You can't walk with God and hold hands with the devil.'  So where are you headed and by whose Hand?