All Kinds

    I have wondered before if people might think I'm anorexic because of my petite size.  Yes, that's about as much thought as I've wasted on such things.  Anyone who truly knows me, knows my appetite is healthy, frequent and more than 3x a day satisfied.  My diet is one of small meals often. They say it is a healthier way to eat but it is more my metabolism that drives me.  Just breathing for me can burn up as many of my calories, as fast as yours can running around the track.
    So this post isn't about eating habits but about judging others.  'Do not judge by appearances; a rich heart may be under a poor coat.' Faith alone points us more to what is unseen than to what we do see.  Isn't that true with people too?  'We tend to judge others by their behavior, and ourselves by our intentions.'  Hmm, if that's not tipping the scales in our favor I don't know what is?
    Whatever it is.... shape, size, color, wealth, status, etc..... you are not the judge, jury or executioner.  Why not?  You're not perfect either.  A friend loveth at all times, all ways and all circumstances.  Love not judge and there will be no grudge.

Stop, Right There

    STOP, right now and right where you are and tell God one thing you are grateful at this very moment.  This should be a habit several times a day in your daily life.  Worry stops us in our tracks and we don't even realize how much time and joy it steals from us.  How about generating some praise worthy thoughts back to God?
    'If we are not grateful for what we have, then what makes us think we'd be happier with more?'
It's like the story of the 3 men given talents/money, did they make more with it or hoard it for themselves and reap nothing?
    'Silent gratitude isn't much use to anyone.'  Yes, God knows your heart without words but doesn't He deserve your time and spoken thoughts?  Start each day with a grateful heart and throw in a few 'thank You' pit stops too.

You're Special

    Each one of us were made in Christ's image and that makes us each special in our own way.  It is a real heartache to me to see people think lowly of themselves and then surround themselves with people who add to that negativity.  It's a vicious cycle with no good end.  What we believe about ourselves will show thru in our attitudes, actions, and how we handle life itself.
    People have often asked me, 'what pushed you to do what you've done?'  I think the bottom line is expectations.  I didn't ever think of myself as any different than Sally or Suzy growing up.  Therefore, my self esteem didn't crutch itself with my physical limitations.  There is only one 'Angie' to make the life she wants so no one will ever steal that confidence or leave a negative vibe that sustains.
    What are some keys to self esteem?  Surround yourself with positive friends and environments.  Think less of what others opinions are and rely more on your own moral compass.  Accept compliments with grace.  Don't compare yourself with others.
   'Your best may not be the best, but if it's your best, then that's good enough.'  Ephesians 2;10  ''For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.''

All Gone?

    As you think of and pray for the North Texas tornado victims of last night, do you consider how you would handle such devastation?  For most, it was just physical lost coupled with memories.  Would you just be grateful that your life was the only thing spared?  Is that enough to you?
    All that we have is God's first.  We are given the responsibility to care for what we have been allotted in this life but that doesn't make it more of ours than God's.  If something is taken from us, there is a purpose to it even when we don't understand why.  Is your trust in God thru all things infallible?  Will you praise Him in the hurt as well as in the joy?
    Life is a balance of gives and takes but do you say 'blessed be His name' in all of it?  'When all the world should be as it should be' and 'when the darkness closes in', what will your heart choose to say both?  Isaiah 26;3  ''You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.''

It's a God Thing

 

    One of the most popular tv episodes of the past used to be Oprah's Favorite Things.  Yes, it showed the newest high-end products available with no conservative pricing.  You could have it if you were willing to pay the price.
    What is even better than that to me is to be surprised by a friend for no reason with one of your favorite things. This is what happened to me last night when my friend, Maru, dropped by with her very special homemade flan for me.  It's like mexican cheesecake but lighter and fluffier than regular cheesecake, and easier for me to eat.  I LOVE IT and I might be part mexican since guacamole is in my list of favorites too.  'It's a God thing' when friends think of you, do things for you and pray for you.  Oh, to be blessed beyond measure.  To have friends that show their love of God to me in their own way is humbling and priceless.  May I be as generous in returning the love and gratitude.

A Little Sun

   Being cooped up for the eleventh day from being sick calls for a little step out into the sun.  We went out to soak up a few rays of vitamin D and injest some vitamin C with peach popsicles.  Yes, Jack helped me finish mine off.  It doesn't beat Blue Bell for him, but it still cools him off.
   Today was a day of inquisition from a caseworker with probing health questions.  You need to have a strong constitution of knowing who you are beyond your body's abilities.  My strength is in my soul, not in this vessel of a body.  The attitude in which we respond to our weaknesses will reveal where true strength exists or is lacking.  Questions like 'am I violent?' or 'throw things?'  just make me laugh.  If I did throw the remote, I'd still want it brought back to me and that might just prove to be a little difficult...ha.
   Whatever your dealing with, there is a spot of sunshine to be found but you must do the looking. Misery 'is' what you make of it.  You can wallow in it, swallow it, or spit it out.  My trials will not last and one day will even cease to exist...now there's faith, hope, and love.

It's a Knockout

    Here is my new knockout rose garden outside my door.  There are three pink knockout rose bushes with two other plants I had that are more visible now after being transplanted here.  I do not have a green thumb so hopefully it won't be an ever changing flower bed.  My dad put alot of hard work into this so I hope the roses will last as long as the previous 30yr old ugly bushes did.
    Am I to worry over their fate or mine?  Luke 12:27  “Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.''  We are all designed, created and cared for by God every day.  We may have our droopy days but the Son will shine on us and revive us again.  Let us nourish ourselves with the Word, join together in fellowship with others and bloom brightly for Him.
    'Be the rose. Bloom. Spread Beauty. Be a Good Bud. Grow Gracefully, Spread Sweetness.'

Happy Mother's Day

   












     'One day a year is simply not enough to show any person his or her value in our sight. Our mothers should know that they can count on our unconditional love, our listening ear when they offer guidance, and our sympathy when they express needs. Let’s make every day a mother’s day.'
     Happy Mother's Day to my mom with pictures of before I was blessed with you.  Sometimes we need reminded of the little girl inside the mom and hope that all her dreams have and will come true.  'Being a mom is a sacred partnership with God.' A godly foundation will support a mom through all the meals to be made, the laundry to be done, and all the chaos of being a mom. I love you, Mom.

Bobbie, Ollie, Robbie

Nancy, Ann, John
Roy, Ollie, Syble, Morene
Robbie, Bobbie, Patty [out of view]

Freckles

    Well it's that time of year again when my freckles show up with the sun.  Freckles are just melanocytes that produce pigment and are bunched together, rather than being spread evenly on the skin.  Maybe we notice them more as we trade in our long sleeve shirts for short sleeved ones.  Some people think they're cute on a speckled pup but a beauty flaw on their own skin.  I say it's a matter of perspective and beauty lies in the eye of the beholder.  Who decided Cindy Crawford's mole on her face was a 'beauty mark'?
    What bothers you will manifest itself into a needless worry and distraction.  How many lemons have been used to lighten our freckles?  It is what it is, so let them highlight your natural beauty.  Just as the stars give a twinkle to the night sky, let your freckles give an inner sparkle from within you.

It's All For Good

   Oh, how we only want to see the good times and shut our eyes to the bad times.  They both work together for our good.  Either way, they revive something inside of us that we've overlooked or taken for granted.
  'Like a plant that starts up in showers and sunshine and does not know which has best helped it to grow, it is difficult to say whether the hard things or the pleasant things did me the most good.'
  My friend said that although she hates that I've been sick all week, that she thinks my blog writings have been better.  Yes, my down week has provided me with more time for food for thought.  Isn't that where God wants our minds to be....on Him, not the world.  'Be still and know that I'm your God' takes alot of patience and surrendering.  Knowing 'this too shall pass' keeps you in the race and pushes you to the finish line.
   The hardships of today point us to our need for a Savior and the good times remind us of our Provider.  'All things work together for good for those who love the Lord.'  Be thankful in all circumstances for the purpose may go unseen to you but it is still there being fulfilled.

My Cactus Flower Bike

     This is my 35 year old cactus flower bike. I think I've been on wheels since before I can remember.  I rode this one from age 6 to 14 or so.  It used to have one of those tall orange flags tied to the back so that people could see me better.  I think a bike is one of our very first experiences with independence.  I loved this bike and it has held up pretty well.  An advantage of being an only child is that we kept alot of my childhood memory items.
     I asked my dad to spruce up my old bike so that the kids that visit over here can enjoy fun rides, like I once did.  Joy comes from sharing our possessions with others.  Whether old or new, pay it forward in some way and you'll be blessed as well.

It's a God Thing

 
     God often leads us to places and information for future use because He knows where our life road leads to before we do.
     When I was about 13, my mom took me to Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN.  People from all over the world go there for expert medical advice and research.  I was the prime candidate to send for help with our hereditary neuromuscular disease, CMT.  As they ran different diagnostic tests, they also gave advice for my future needs.  'It was a God thing' that they told me about the postural drainage method of coughing.  It is a way of positioning yourself on your belly on the bed and letting your shoulders and arms hang off the end of the bed.  The key is letting gravity do the work that the muscles can't.  So back then, it was info to be filed away in my memory file.  Yet, over the past 15-plus years, it has been life-saving info that is rarely spoken of by respiratory therapists.  I'm often the show-n-tell show when I'm in the hospital to demonstrate their textbook knowledge.
     The Bible is our place of information given to us that foretells what the future holds.  Are you using that resource to prepare for your destiny or is it just filed away for that emergency moment of need?  'When you know better, you do better.'

Worry

     Have you ever stopped to think about things you've worried about in the past?  Did things not turn out for good, even if the journey wasn't easy?  'Worry is a misuse of imagination.'  I know I've thought of the craziest what-if scenarios but you can go insane with that kind of thinking.
     'Worry is a burden God never meant for us to bear.'  He wants us to hand it over to Him because He is the controller over each of our worlds.  Worry is a cycle to nowhere.  'What worries you masters you.'
     Nothing in life is final, except death.  You can rebuild, you can try again, or change your ways but there are second chances out there.  If there is one thing to truly worry about then it's your eternal destiny.  If you are unsure or following wrong ideas, then you need to shine some Light into that shadow.  People often do sweat the small stuff but put off thoughts that truly matter.  Worry, like when you're in a hurry, leads only to a scurry and a fury.
    Worry will steal your joy and keep you busy doing nothing. Worry will also keep you preoccupied in a holding pattern until you see what God had planned all along.

The Storm

    The storms of life will come and we must endure it until it passes.  It is not fun but it is often a teachable moment for those with malleable hearts and minds.
    Bowing your head is a sign of humble respect to the Lord.  It's a posture that demonstrates a need for a Comforter that is greater than ourselves. It says I need help and I can't get through this alone.
    Saying a prayer is our plead to the Lord to meet our desperate needs.  He will often calm the storm or calm you to get through it.  Your prayer requests never go unheard but the answer depends on His timing and will for you.
    Weather the storm because His mercies are new everyday.  Come rain or shine in your life, there is purpose in everything.  How you handle your storms is an example to many.  Are you thunder and lightning or are you making lemonade with your lemons?
    Gary Allan sings it best, 'Every storm runs out of rain, just like every dark nite turns into day.  Every heartache will fade away, just like every storm runs, runs outa rain.'

Daily Bread

    Well this has been my week for homemade bread.  Yes, lucky me.  I've had 3 friends bring 3 different kinds of bread they made to me.  Louise made sourdough bread, Charity made dinner bread, and Maru made banana bread.  I'm not usually a big bread eater but homemade bread is a whole different story.  I am eating it daily...yummo.
    As much as the homemade bread makes me feel full, it will never nourish me enough.  Our daily bread is the Bible/The Word and will satisfy our souls.  What does it feel like to be hungry for The Word?  You may feel lost without direction, depressed with the world's situation, or needing words of praise.
    I use the devotional, Our Daily Bread, every day.  It's a short and concise story backed up by a Bible verse.  It is enough to give you a thought to ponder for the day.  It also directs your mind towards God, instead of the world.
    Feed your mind and soul as much as your stomach and then you'll have a perfect diet.


Lord, I meditate on Your precepts and contemplate
Your ways. I delight myself in Your statutes;
I will not forget Your Word. Open my eyes that
I may see wondrous things from Your law.  [odb.org]

Fleetwood Mac

    Charlene and I had a great night at the Fleetwood Mac concert last night.  Let me share some of the highlights with you.
    My dad drove us and dropped us off and picked us up.  It makes it alot easier on me and saves us from the hassles of parking.  Anyways on the way there, we were at the Kiehl/107 light.  I looked across and said there's Charity and family.  We waved, honked, flashed the lights, stuck an arm out the window and no response.  Are they blind?  As we passed the truck, they looked at us like we were aliens.  We said it wasn't them and laughed so hard.
     Okay so we get there and our seats are perfect.  It started about 20min late but that's okay.  They played my favorite songs [Landslide, Silver Spring], some I really like [Gypsy, Stand Back, You Can Go Your Own Way n more] and some I'd never heard before.  I wanted to do spins in my chair during Gypsy but I refrained.  This show was from 815 to 11-something with no intermission and I love that.  Lindsey [guitar] and Mick [drums] were like Energizer bunnies on their instruments.  Their solos were incredible.
    The Clintons were in town and they were in a box seat across from us.  I know, big whoop, but I thought I'd mention it.
    I give thanks that my sinus drainage held off long enough for me to enjoy a great party night of music with my best friend, Charlene.  Thanks to my dad for a great Christmas gift and bonus taxi service.

Try To....

    Oh, if we could all have this in our daily lives.  Some captions convict me more than others and this one hits home.
    Exodus 10:20  ''But the Lord hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he would not let the Israelites go.''  We do not want to be arrogant and say we will follow the Lord's will and then turn back to our self desires.  Are we repeat offenders like Pharoah?  I think often so and then we have to deal with the consequences.  May our hearts never harden so that we can't hear God's voice in our ear and ignore His will.
    Okay, here is the hardest of the three to me.  I don't really have a short temper but often too quick of a reaction.  I try to remember how patient God is with me, when I'm about to blow a fuse but it's not a no-fail system.  May we always give more grace than is needed.
    I watched a movie the other day where the guy was in big trouble with his job and said he said, 'I just hafta hit something.... so he hit the chair.'  We should never take our anger out on anyone physically or emotionally.  May your touch be soft as a feather and we will never cause harm.

Visiting

   I love to visit with people. I like to hear their stories and share mine. I would love to do more of it if I could.  My greatest hindrance is accessibility into people's homes so I often have to have them come to my place.  It works out for the people willing to show up over here but I'd like to just do a drop by visit myself once in a while.
   I even had a job interview in Chicago once where I couldn't get in the building.  I called and had the interview in the van. What would you guess my chances of getting that job were? ha.
  There is one place I can always go without any help and that's to God's throne.  He is always accessible.  My only hindrance is myself.  I just have to take the time to show up for prayer time with Him.  It's true, prayer is the biggest help to others and to me.
   Psalm 61;1-3  ''Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe.''

It's a God Thing

    'Do not look at the mountain but to the One who moves the mountain.'  That is how I try to see my different problems that I face everyday and 'its a God thing'.  Only through God as my foundation can I stand up thru the swaying winds of the world and it's strife.
    We all encounter problems from every direction, but 'do not let your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.' John 14;27  Whether we have a breeze or a tornado of trouble, God has allowed it in our lives to show or teach us something.
    I'm not going to pick out one problem of mine to use as an example because they all make me stronger and more humble each day. 'Life is not a problem to be solved, but a reality to be experienced.'  My reality is that my God is bigger than all my problems combined.

Do Unto Others

     We are all sinners and fall short of the glory of God.  Therefore, we all have our faults.  Some may think my biggest fault lies within my mouth.  Yes, some days my biggest accomplishment is keeping my mouth shut.  I realize tho that I'm only responsible for what I say, not for what people hear or interpret.
    The good news is that no matter what our faults are, no one is denied the call of the gospel.  John 3;16 says 'whoever believes in Me shall not perish but have eternal life.'  Whoever includes everyone, not who you think deserves it.  There are no fault exclusions because God knows we would all be excluded without Jesus as our sin debt reliever.  He doesn't love us any less because of our faults but He redeems us in spite of them.
     Just as I don't drive my scooter without regard to who is in my path, we must think of others in our lives too.  Look past the faults and see the heart of others, then you'll see the true treasure of someone.

Be You

    'Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.'  Romans 12;2
    There will only be one you in this world so be true to yourself.  It is easy to follow the crowd but it takes true convictions to stand alone.  I think it's a common misconception that everyone should go to college.  That's just not true and you're not a failure if life leads you in a different direction.  I do think your skill or trade should be built upon to better yourself in life.  We need all kinds of people and occupations to run this world.
    Aren't you glad we are all different?  What if we were all robots, like your worst nightmare?  Our differences make us special and beautiful.  I think you stand out best when others see the attention you give to God in your life, rather than when you draw attention to yourself.

Keep It At Home

    Oh My Word!  I will 'try' to make my point without losing it completely.  What I witnessed this morning would literally 'gag a maggot.'
     So this may not be an encouraging blog but more of a public awareness blog.  I must say public display of sickness is at the top of the list of my pet peeves...keep it home.  So what set me on my soapbox?  A five year old boy prancing around with four streams of snot running down from his nose past his mouth.  If that's not enough, the oblivious parents did very little clean up or anything to prevent any germ spreading prevention.
    If I sound harsh then so be it.  What's minor to some is major to others.
    [just sayin' from a usually gentle heart]
   

Look Up

     From my friend's blog.....'Bill Bright says that all of man's problems can be traced back to his concept of God.'
     Where we turn, whether in good times or bad, shows where our heart truly is.  As Snoopy says we must look up to God with both our dilemmas and questions, as well as our praise and thanks.  If you're looking down or back on your life with regret, then you're missing the boat of forgiveness.  We all live a journey of mistakes but when you know better then you do better.  We look up to our Example and Saviour to direct our paths, guide us to eternity and forgive our wrongs.
     'Sorrow looks back, Worry looks around, Faith looks up.'

Stop, for a Moment

     Today I had a few friends over with their kiddos for an afternoon visit here at the house.  I think everyone had a good time.  The popsicles, the golf cart riding/driving, and even the Tinkertoys were a big hit. It was a perfect day to be outside and just enjoy each other's company.
     I think the caption above is one key to happiness.  Yes, we all have stuff we could be doing, like yardwork, cleaning, organizing, etc.  It reminds me of the Mary and Martha story.  Luke 10;38-42 '' As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”  If you're so busy with life, you'll miss out on life itself.
     I'm glad the parents that were over today were willing to take a break from all the work of life and just live it a little.

It's a God Thing

     Sometimes when what we think are disasters in our lives, turn out to be true blessings in disguise.  We panic and think what are we going to do but God already has it planned out.  We must turn our worry over to trust in Him.
     This is my story of how I met the true blessing of Karla. I had met Karla a couple of weeks before when she was helping a friend with her mother's care.  The second time I met her I said I like her and I think I'd like her for an assistant.  Well soon after, my former aide quit unexpectedly and without notice.  'It was a God thing' that Karla had turned down other job opportunities and was available and willing to work with me.
      KARLA...Kind, Attentive, Reliable, Loving, And so much more.  I can't express enough how much her presence and friendship has boosted my everyday spirit.  She's only been here about 7 months but she can finish my sentences, anticipate my needs before the asking, and raised the bar for others.  She is a God thing and I'm forever grateful.

Yea, I Wish

    Yes, not all of us have that 'let's go workout' gene in our DNA but instead we have the 'let's go get something to eat' gene.  Eating is enough of a workout for me in that it can make my heart rate go up to 140 at times.  True, I feel rewarded after both exercising and eating but really which is more fun--eating obviously.  When I say obviously, I'm referring to my jeans reaching their limit.
    So what if we took a twist on this caption.  ''I wish exercising 'my faith' was as easy as eating 'my blessings'.''  Hmm, how true is that?  We have no trouble taking and enjoying what we are given but yet our trust in Him and giving back is not always an immediate response.  Could you do without the blessings as much as you do without your faith?  I think it's a symbiotic relationship between the two.
    You will reap what you sow......and if I ever doubt that, my waistline reminds me.  [Yes, I know I'm not the best example but we must look at ourselves before pointing the finger.]

The Hokey-Pokey

    Well going to bed is really all about the hokey-pokey for me.  Since I have to sleep in one position all night, then my comfort level is dependent on the arrangement of my body parts.  Every night involves telling someone to 'put my right foot out, put my left foot in.'  Yes, I still remember the days of just falling into bed with no thought on my mind but sleep itself.  I long for the day when I'll be able to do that again in heaven.
    I hope the rest of my life is not centered around a ritualistic pattern.  Sometimes we get into a rut of patterns and just go thru the motions.  Children are taught memorized prayers to get them into the habit of praying but as we grow our prayers should become our own and not just a ritual.  Going to church should be a time of worship and not just a place to be on Sunday.  'Going to church doesn't make you a Christian anymore than a garage makes you into a car.'
    So I encourage you to think about what it's really all about and 'turn yourself around.'

Marriage Defined

    Marriage defined by God is one man wed to one woman until death do they part.  Culture and the government may attempt to redefine it but the Word of God is forever and unchanging.  Alot of people use emotions or feelings to justify the wrong.  I like to use math in these instances to take all emotions out.  If 7=man and 8=woman, then 7 plus 8=15.  Ok so 7 plus 7, nor 8 plus 8 will ever equal 15.  They are not the same and therefore they cannot be defined the same.
     Yes, it all goes back to God giving Eve, not Steve, to Adam to be his mate for life.  We are all born with weaknesses and if yours is in this area, it is better to be single.  A single led life is better and happier than one that will turn you over to your desires and separate you from God eternally.
     My beliefs on marriage aren't just against gay marriage but also polygamy or any other twist on the true definition of marriage by God.  'Love the sinner, hate the sin and remember we are all sinners.'

Influence

 "I believe that one reason why the church of God at this present moment has so little influence over the world is because THE WORLD HAS SO MUCH INFLUENCE OVER THE CHURCH." ~ Charles Spurgeon


    I think Spurgeon hit the nail on the head with that quote.  So many are more concerned with what our culture says is okay than what is Biblically correct.  We excuse bad behavior as just being a free spirit or that's just how things are these days.  No.. it's lack of teaching right from wrong and having proper expectations.
    The devil uses his influence best in areas where we are lukewarm.  We need to be bold and stand firm in our beliefs.  Politicians and the subject of gay marriage are a prime example of the sway in beliefs.  It is politically correct to be for it but there is no doubt it is Biblically incorrect.  'For what shall a man profit, if he gains the world but loses his soul?'  Mark 8;36
     Are you a light to others in this dark world?  Do you hide behind the curtain on sensitive topics?  It's important to be a guiding light and not a blaze burner.  We want to be contagious but not in a way that makes others avoid you and your 'soap box'.  Use your influence to build others up in Christ so they may see the world differently and not as their home.

No Where to Hide

    We have all wanted to hide and escape for awhile.  Not even the bathroom is safe for parents with persistant kids.  My friend tells her kids, 'unless you're bleeding, go away.'
    As the police search today for the second suspect of the Boston Marathon bombing, it is just a matter of time before being caught.  It's not 'if' but 'when' and lessening the threat of more harm.  The lockdown of Boston hopes to keep people safer and hinders the hiding in the crowd idea.
    We cannot hide from God.  He sees all, knows all and is everywhere.  The joke about 'whether the man in the woods is still wrong, even if he's alone' can remind us that if it's wrong in God's eyes then yes, it's wrong anywhere and everywhere.  Unless you are saved and your wrongs are erased then judgement day will recall all your hidden secrets and you will have no where to hide.
    Your attempts to hide anything from God are as obvious as an ostrich burying his head in the sand.

Tired

    Who hasn't said this?  I think I've said it my whole life.  Sometimes we just feel drained and need a little more time in the refueling station.  Have you ever felt that you've...talked your head off, worked your tail off, cried your eyes out, walked your legs off, or sang your heart out?  Then you feel there's nothing left of you.
     We are not all on the same clock or journey.  It is our job to encourage people in their walk with the Lord, but they must be ready.  We can't force people when they just keep hitting the snooze to life's alarm of their eternal destiny.
     Rest in the peace of the Lord but don't waste your days in slumber.  Romans 13; 11-12  'And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.'

It's a God Thing

    Sometimes when you feel blessed, you can't give anything or anyone the credit but God.  That is  what I've felt the past couple of weeks.  'It's a God thing' that I've been doing so well lately.  I wish I could say it's because of exercise, the time of year or my eating habits so that I could continue with it but I can't so I'm just going to take it and count it as a blessing.
    I'll mention a few examples.  I went to the George Strait concert the other night with friends.  Yes, I took my air but even then I usually need to cough.  This night was 4 hours with no cough, just a fun night.  I usually have to cough after I eat but I've enjoyed eating out a few times lately without the rush to get back home.  I've enjoyed being at church for longer than just the service and felt good enough to hang out and visit for an extra hour.
    I can't explain it so I just give God the glory and enjoy it.  'His love endures forever.'

Mirror, Mirror

    Most of us are vain and check the mirror for physical or cosmetic flaws.  It is good to check yourself but do you see past that?  God does.  What does your image reflect spiritually?  We too often see 'pretty' people in the world with an ugly attitude.  'God doesn't like ugly.'
    Our walk in this life is meant to transform us into the likeness of Christ.  Colossians 3;12  'Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.'  Our talk must match our walk otherwise others will see the hypocrisy in our reflection.  The impression you leave on someone is from your total package.  Some people look smart until they open their mouths and remove all doubt. 
    Your TOM's will do nothing to help your walk with the Lord, so make sure that what people really see in you will show them the Spirit of Christ.  'You may be the only Bible they see.'

No Fear

    Do you walk with confidence because the Lord is your Shepherd?  or... Do you walk around oblivious to the dangers around you relying on your own strength?  The former is much better and peaceful than the latter.
    This chicken, often like us, doesn't appreciate how death will come like a thief in the night and we must be prepared.  We just strut around living a life centered on our little coop.  Our feathers get ruffled when we end up in the valleys but do we praise our Protector?
    'Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.' Psalm 23;6
    If your trust comes from the Lord, your paths will be on the right direction.  If your trust is in yourself or your works, you will forever fall short.  We are saved by grace, not by works.

Giving Back

     What is a tithe?  A tenth part of one's annual income contributed voluntarily, especially for the support of the clergy or church.  Well that's the dictionary's definition but it's really a way of giving back to the Kingdom to show your gratitude to God.  It furthers the work of the gospel here in our local churches.
     Don't you think you've already got a good deal with all the blessings you've received?  Some people want to give little or nothing back in return.  Do you think that because tomorrow is tax day that you've given enough?  The Bible says 'So give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.”  The IRS nor does God accept a groupon or substitutes.  Cain wanted to give an alternative to a blood offering but that was unacceptable to God.
     It's important in this age of 'getting a free ride in life' kind of thinking to teach kids at a young age to not just be takers but more importantly to be givers of gratitude.

The Winds of Life

     Big winds have never been my friend.  I've been blown over once in Rochester, MN.  I also remember my UCA days and maneuvering myself down the sidewalk behind the science building.  It was kind of sloped and my heavy backpack helped to keep my balance but I stopped in my tracks when the wind blew.  It was just enough to tip me over.  It never did knock me down because I held on tight and believed I could make it.
     Change is not my friend either.  I like the patterns and routines in my life.  New people, new ideas, new routines do not come in easily into my life but transition in.
     So to say that big winds of change are not my friend is an understatement.  I cannot nor do I face them alone.  I believe God is always with me and I hold tight to His promises.  'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'  There have been times when we've all just assumed to have been swept away by those winds of life but I believe God will finish the work He began in us.
     It's a common reaction to lower our heads when facing a strong wind in our face so maybe we should also bow our heads and pray when the winds of life hit us as well.

Who Listens?

   Who hasn't felt like the yellow traffic light?  Kids are not alone in this, as adults also feel unheard in the workplace, the home, or even in church matters.  It is good to give advice as a warning but you are only responsible for what you say, not what they hear.  Selective hearing is a form of ignoring the precautious warning.  Just like the yellow light cautions us, we can choose to slow down and heed the danger or we can speed right thru the warning and risk the consequences.
   The Bible is our traffic light to life.  It tells us what we need to STOP doing.  It CAUTIONS us with the consequences to our sinful actions and thoughts.  It also tells us what to GO and do unto others and how to glorify God.
   Is God saying you never listen to Him?  Are you ignoring Him and paying the consequences?  I urge you to screech to a halt and stop living a life for yourself and go live a life that glorifies your Creator.

It's a God Thing

    One might think that because my body in general is not strong in the muscle department that my eyesight would be weak as well.  That couldn't be farther from the truth. I can't explain it because our eyes are dependent on the optic muscles.  Therefore, 'It's a God thing' that my vision is as sharp as a hawk.  Some people refer to me as 'eagle eye.'  I can see a black ant across the room on berber carpet, while others say where, where?  My eyes also see the big picture despite it's lack of presence before me because of my vision of faith.  My hope lies more in what I can't see yet, but it is backed by the proof I see now.
    People often have hardened hearts and don't see what is right before them.  Jesus reminded the witnesses of His feeding the thousands with 5 loaves of bread.  Mark 8;18  '' Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don’t you remember?''  Some can't see the forest for all the trees.  Many get caught up in the details trying to explain it all and they miss the obvious work of God before their very eyes.
    One day the veil will be lifted and both the blind and the ones who can see now, will see it all clearly.

Cosby Says......

          I'm handing today's blog over to Bill Cosby.  I saw this on facebook and just thought I would share it with you.  Today's culture can limit you, even in the land of opportunity.


They're standing on the corner and they can't speak English.
I can't even talk the way these people talk: Why you ain't, Where you is, What he drive, Where he stay, Where he work, Who you be...
And I blamed the kid until I heard the mother talk. And then I heard the father talk.

Everybody knows it's important to speak English except these knuckleheads. You can't be a doctor with that kind of crap coming out of your mouth. In fact you will never get any kind of job making a decent living.

People marched and were hit in the face with rocks to get an Education, and now we've got these knuckleheads walking around.

The lower economic people are not holding up their end in this deal. These people are not parenting. They are buying things for kids.
$500 sneakers for what?

And they won't spend $200 for Hooked on Phonics.

I am talking about these people who cry when their son is standing there in an orange suit. Where were you when he was 2? Where were you when he was 12? Where were you when he was 18 and how come you didn't know that he had a pistol?

And where is the father? Or who is his father?

People putting their clothes on backward: Isn't that a sign of something gone wrong?
People with their hats on backward, pants down around the crack, isn't that a sign of something?

Isn't it a sign of something when she has her dress all the way up and got all type of needles [piercing] going through her body? What part of Africa did this come from??
We are not Africans. Those people are not Africans; they don't know a thing about Africa.

I say this all of the time. It would be like white people saying they are European-American. That is totally stupid.

I was born here, and so were my parents and grand parents and, very likely my great grandparents. I don't have any connection to Africa, no more than white Americans have to Germany , Scotland , England , Ireland , or the Netherlands . The same applies to 99 percent of all the black Americans as regards to Africa . So stop, already! ! !
With names like Shaniqua, Taliqua and Mohammed and all of that crap ......... And all of them are in jail.

Brown or black versus the Board of Education is no longer the white person's problem.
We have got to take the neighborhood back.
People used to be ashamed. Today a woman has eight children with eight different 'husbands' -- or men or whatever you call them now.

We have millionaire football players who cannot read. We have million-dollar basketball players who can't write two paragraphs. We, as black folks have to do a better job.

Someone working at Wal-Mart with seven kids, you are hurting us.
We have to start holding each other to a higher standard.
We cannot blame the white people any longer.'

Dr. William Henry 'Bill' Cosby, Jr., Ed. D.

WELL SAID, BILL It's NOT about color...It's about behavior!

Pause

    In this world, we often react too quickly to just about everything.  Pause should be a common word to us, not a foreign word.  What's the rush?  Where's the fire?  Taking a moment can prevent impulsive reactions that do more harm than good.
    Even in the Psalms, the word 'Selah' means pause and praise.  Selah occurs 71 times in the Psalms.  It means take the time to consider what you just read.  Pausing stresses the importance of the meaning of the words David wrote.
    If we would stop our own line of thinking and pause to get God's direction, then we would lead more peaceful lives.  I'm not saying it's easy not to be trigger happy with our words but it would be better.
    You can't spell 'pause' without the 'use'... coincidence, I think not.