I received this as an email today. I do not know the author, but it is powerful reminder of how we are to live our lives.
His name is Bill. He has wild hair, wears a T-shirt with holes in it, jeans, and no shoes. This was literally his wardrobe for his entire four years of college.
He is brilliant. Kind of profound and very, very bright. He became a Christian while attending college.
Across the street from the campus is a well-dressed, very conservative church. They want to develop a ministry to the students but are not
Sure how to go about it.
One day Bill decides to go there. He walks in with no shoes, jeans, his T-shirt, and wild hair. The service has already started and so Bill
Starts down the aisle looking for a seat.
The church is completely packed and he can't find a seat. By now, people are really looking a bit uncomfortable, but no one says anything.
Bill gets closer and closer and closer to the pulpit, and when he realizes there are no seats, he just squats down right on the carpet.
By now the people are really uptight, and the tension in the air is thick.
About this time, the minister realizes that from way at the back of the church, a deacon is slowly making his way toward Bill.
Now the deacon is in his eighties, has silver-gray hair, and a three-piece suit. A godly man, very elegant, very dignified, very courtly. He walks with a cane and, as he starts walking toward this
Boy, everyone is saying to themselves that you can't blame him for what he's going to do.
How can you expect a man of his age and of his background to understand some college kid on the floor?
It takes a long time for the man to reach the boy.
The church is utterly silent except for the clicking of the man's cane. All eyes are focused on him.. You can't even hear anyone breathing. The minister can't even preach the sermon until the deacon does what he has to do.
And now they see this elderly man drop his cane on the floor. With great difficulty, he lowers himself and sits down next to Bill and worships with him so he won't be alone.
Everyone chokes up with emotion. When the minister gains control, he says,'What I'm
About to preach, you will never remember. What you have just seen, you will never forget.'
'Be careful how you live. You may be the only Bible some people will ever read!'
I asked the Lord to bless you
As I prayed for you today.
To guide you and protect you
As you go along your way....
His love is always with you,
His promises are true,
And when we give Him all our cares,
You know He will see us through.
The following was performed 25 years ago. Wonder why we don't hear it anyomre?
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Monday, May 18, 2009
The Refiner's Fire
And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness. Malachi 3:3
How does this statement reflect the character and nature of God?
Who wants to be thrown in a fire?
To understand this you must know something about the process of refining silver.
The silversmith holds a piece of silver over the fire and lets it heat up. In refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities.
Has God ever held you in such a hot spot?
The silversmith has to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined. He not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left even a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.
So how does he know when the silver is fully refined?
Actually, that's pretty easy. He knows it is fully refined when he can see his image in it.
If you feel the heat of the fire in your life, remember God has His eye on you and will keep watching you until He sees His image in you.
How does this statement reflect the character and nature of God?
Who wants to be thrown in a fire?
To understand this you must know something about the process of refining silver.
The silversmith holds a piece of silver over the fire and lets it heat up. In refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities.
Has God ever held you in such a hot spot?
The silversmith has to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined. He not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left even a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.
So how does he know when the silver is fully refined?
Actually, that's pretty easy. He knows it is fully refined when he can see his image in it.
If you feel the heat of the fire in your life, remember God has His eye on you and will keep watching you until He sees His image in you.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Out of the Salt Shaker
I have been doing a lot of soul searching lately as I prepare my heart to go to Ireland. I truly am expecting divine appointments. I am expecting what Bruce Wilkinson calls "predictable miracles."
A friend sent me a link from Ravi Zacharias' website. (Until today I thought it was Robbie.) I went immediately to their daily devotion, because that is the kind of writer I am. Fresh manna. I pray I am hearing the Holy Spirit.
I found the following paragraph at the end of their "Slice of Infinity."
"Jesus spoke of influence by comparing it to salt. Salt is not a flashy spice like cayenne pepper or nutmeg. It rarely calls attention to itself as a predominant flavor. Salt is basic. And yet, salt is essential. Without it, food is bland and tasteless, for salt enlivens all the flavors. Without it, decay and degradation ensue, for salt preserves and produces longevity. Salt cleanses and heals. In recipes, salt serves all the other ingredients, bringing them to their fullest expression and flavor. Jesus calls his followers to be influencers in the way that salt influences a meal: often in the background, and not a self-promoting or singular flavor. Influence is like salt, Jesus teaches; it is firmly in the background of ingredients, hardly noticed, and yet powerfully effective in creating a full and lasting result." this was written by Mary Manning.
It immediately took me back to a Bible study I had attended about 20 years ago based on Becky Pippert's book, Out of the Salt Shaker and Into the World. I thought of how that lines up with the teaching I do for Be In Health called You! A Servant Priest. Both a far cry from traditional evangelism.
As I chewed on the article by Mary, I re-read, "it is firmly in the background of ingredients, hardly noticed, and yet powerfully effective in creating a full and lasting result."
That totally described the way my friend, Bridget, lives her life. She was one of the first people I met when I came here over eight years ago. I stayed in a rooming house of sorts called The Bethel Inn. Bridget was a long-term resident. Although I am older than she is, she was like a big sister to me as I sought God for my very life. Doctors had pronounced a death sentence over me.
I have outlived their pronouncement by four years and in fact, the sentence has been stayed. The Lord has used people like Bridget to love on me, correct and cajole me. How rich I am to have friends who have hung in this course correction for eight years!
In the past week Bridget has come to plant a flat of impatiens that Mike gave me, helped me set up for a lawn party of 100, helped serve and then clean up afterward. On Sunday she took several children in tow as the parents took another child to the hospital. She served in registration for the program I am taking this week. On Monday night she ministered to women. Today we had lunch and she was leaving to go babysit for a couple who is moving Saturday. She moves about rather anonymously. She simply does what she feels her Father would have her do. She is very calm and in turn very calming to those of us who wind up too easily.
On the buffet of life, Bridget is a loving, active salt shaker. A little shake here and another over there.
She looks at what needs to be done and quietly does it. She is not a "sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal" but a free flowing salt shaker who seasons the lives of many - most often in the background- with that very basic spice called love.
A friend sent me a link from Ravi Zacharias' website. (Until today I thought it was Robbie.) I went immediately to their daily devotion, because that is the kind of writer I am. Fresh manna. I pray I am hearing the Holy Spirit.
I found the following paragraph at the end of their "Slice of Infinity."
"Jesus spoke of influence by comparing it to salt. Salt is not a flashy spice like cayenne pepper or nutmeg. It rarely calls attention to itself as a predominant flavor. Salt is basic. And yet, salt is essential. Without it, food is bland and tasteless, for salt enlivens all the flavors. Without it, decay and degradation ensue, for salt preserves and produces longevity. Salt cleanses and heals. In recipes, salt serves all the other ingredients, bringing them to their fullest expression and flavor. Jesus calls his followers to be influencers in the way that salt influences a meal: often in the background, and not a self-promoting or singular flavor. Influence is like salt, Jesus teaches; it is firmly in the background of ingredients, hardly noticed, and yet powerfully effective in creating a full and lasting result." this was written by Mary Manning.
It immediately took me back to a Bible study I had attended about 20 years ago based on Becky Pippert's book, Out of the Salt Shaker and Into the World. I thought of how that lines up with the teaching I do for Be In Health called You! A Servant Priest. Both a far cry from traditional evangelism.
As I chewed on the article by Mary, I re-read, "it is firmly in the background of ingredients, hardly noticed, and yet powerfully effective in creating a full and lasting result."
That totally described the way my friend, Bridget, lives her life. She was one of the first people I met when I came here over eight years ago. I stayed in a rooming house of sorts called The Bethel Inn. Bridget was a long-term resident. Although I am older than she is, she was like a big sister to me as I sought God for my very life. Doctors had pronounced a death sentence over me.
I have outlived their pronouncement by four years and in fact, the sentence has been stayed. The Lord has used people like Bridget to love on me, correct and cajole me. How rich I am to have friends who have hung in this course correction for eight years!
In the past week Bridget has come to plant a flat of impatiens that Mike gave me, helped me set up for a lawn party of 100, helped serve and then clean up afterward. On Sunday she took several children in tow as the parents took another child to the hospital. She served in registration for the program I am taking this week. On Monday night she ministered to women. Today we had lunch and she was leaving to go babysit for a couple who is moving Saturday. She moves about rather anonymously. She simply does what she feels her Father would have her do. She is very calm and in turn very calming to those of us who wind up too easily.
On the buffet of life, Bridget is a loving, active salt shaker. A little shake here and another over there.
She looks at what needs to be done and quietly does it. She is not a "sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal" but a free flowing salt shaker who seasons the lives of many - most often in the background- with that very basic spice called love.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
What If...?
The following video is very thought provoking. However, please don't go into condemnation. Conviction is okay. It is from the Holy Spirit and it says your heart is tender. Condemnation is from the Father of Lies, Satan.
Our god has a heart of compassion towards us.
My prayer is that I can be a vessel of that same compassion and pour it on others.
[It is of] the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. [They are] new every morning: great [is] thy faithfulness. Lam. 3:22-23
Our god has a heart of compassion towards us.
My prayer is that I can be a vessel of that same compassion and pour it on others.
[It is of] the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. [They are] new every morning: great [is] thy faithfulness. Lam. 3:22-23
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
We're Going to Have to Serve Somebody
This Bob Dylan puts worth a powerful truth. You're going to have serve somebody. Moment by moment we make choices on what we will eat, how we will spend our time, our money and who we will be involved in. How much are we willing to share our lives at all levels with others. If we hold back, why?
What am I afraid of? Fear is a crippler. What am I thinking? Not all rational thoughts are godly. It may be just to save our hide. What if God is calling us to lay down our lives for another?
We have to serve somebody.
Who will it be?
The really cool part is if we make the wrong choice, we can repent and make the right one.
The really cool part is if we make the wrong choice, we can repent and make the right one.
Monday, May 4, 2009
What Song is Your Life Singing?
Last week God placed people in my life to affirm me and thank me for speaking into their lives and loving on them. Two of them said that I was there when no one elase was AND I WAS COMPLETELY UNAWARE. In both cases, it was something simple, an email, a couple of phone calls.
It wasn't major ministry or deliverance, I just had a prompting and followed it. I am totally encouraged to do more for I saw clearly how I had been ripped off. I never thought I made a difference and really didn't see myself as a person of value.
I was listening to the wrong voice, and I didn't even know it. Still others were hearing the songs of deliverance that my Father was singing through me. I think I understand better why vocalist wear headsets when recording. They need to only hear the soundtrack of the song that they are to hear.
It wasn't major ministry or deliverance, I just had a prompting and followed it. I am totally encouraged to do more for I saw clearly how I had been ripped off. I never thought I made a difference and really didn't see myself as a person of value.
I was listening to the wrong voice, and I didn't even know it. Still others were hearing the songs of deliverance that my Father was singing through me. I think I understand better why vocalist wear headsets when recording. They need to only hear the soundtrack of the song that they are to hear.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Life is like Marco Polo
Marco Polo is a game kids played in a swimming pool.
You need three or more players. One person is "It" and closes his or her eyes for a set number of seconds while the remainder of the players disperse around the pool. The It player then begins to swim around the pool, keeping his or her eyes closed, attempting to tag the other players.
The It player can only sense where the other players are by sound, but may call out "Marco!" All the other players are required to respond with "Polo!" When the It player succeeds in tagging another player, then he becomes It.
Life is like that sometimes. We are swimming around in our stuff whether depression, self-pity or financial woes. There are people placed in our lives by God. We can swim blindly, but if we call out "Marco," they have to respond. Why won't we call out?
God exhorts us to call on His name and He will answer.
Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not. Jeremiah 33:3
In reality, we don't even have a glimpse of what He is able to show us.
Call on Him.
You need three or more players. One person is "It" and closes his or her eyes for a set number of seconds while the remainder of the players disperse around the pool. The It player then begins to swim around the pool, keeping his or her eyes closed, attempting to tag the other players.
The It player can only sense where the other players are by sound, but may call out "Marco!" All the other players are required to respond with "Polo!" When the It player succeeds in tagging another player, then he becomes It.
Life is like that sometimes. We are swimming around in our stuff whether depression, self-pity or financial woes. There are people placed in our lives by God. We can swim blindly, but if we call out "Marco," they have to respond. Why won't we call out?
God exhorts us to call on His name and He will answer.
Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not. Jeremiah 33:3
In reality, we don't even have a glimpse of what He is able to show us.
Call on Him.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Listening for His Voice
The LORD thy God in the midst of thee [is] mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing. Zephaniah 3:17
When we feel deserted and alone, He is in our midst. He will save us, rejoice over us because He sees the end. He rejoices over us by singing.
I encourage you today to listen for His voice. He speaks, sings and delivers in many ways. He used a baby to save the world. He has even talked through a donkey.
Listen, really listen today to the voice of the Shepherd.
Be amazed today.
When we feel deserted and alone, He is in our midst. He will save us, rejoice over us because He sees the end. He rejoices over us by singing.
I encourage you today to listen for His voice. He speaks, sings and delivers in many ways. He used a baby to save the world. He has even talked through a donkey.
Listen, really listen today to the voice of the Shepherd.
Be amazed today.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Why Do We Wait So Long to Turn Around?
Sometimes I have made such a mess of things that I felt like there was no way God would have anything to do with me. This was just one more time in a list of failures. Finally, I learned that when we ask for forgiveness, that's it. It's over. Done. Finito.
As far as the east is from the west, [so] far hath he removed our transgressions from us. Psalm 103:12
Nothing can separate us from His love.
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39
Why do we wait so long to return?
As far as the east is from the west, [so] far hath he removed our transgressions from us. Psalm 103:12
Nothing can separate us from His love.
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39
Why do we wait so long to return?
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Antidote to Abuse
For almost 25 years I have ministering to women who have been abused. Repeatedly I ask them to read Psalm 139 OUT LOUD twice a day for 30 days.
It answers questions like: "Where were you, God?" "Does anybody care?" "Was I an accident?" and statements like: "What's the use." and "I feel like such a loser."
None of that cmes from the heart of God. Psalm 139 reveals His heart. When you know that then anything that does not line up with that is from the accuser of the brethren, Satan. Ditch those thoughts quickly before they destroy you.
That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. Ephesians 5:26-27
If Jesus wants to wash us with the water of the Word, shouldn't we be doing the same?
Your Father loves you and His plan for you will bring joy unspeakable. I can't promise you that there will never be pain, but I promise you that He will carry you and the healing will bring a new life that is more than you could have ever imagined or even hoped for.
Let me tell you in case you have forgotten, You are loved, deeply loved.
It answers questions like: "Where were you, God?" "Does anybody care?" "Was I an accident?" and statements like: "What's the use." and "I feel like such a loser."
None of that cmes from the heart of God. Psalm 139 reveals His heart. When you know that then anything that does not line up with that is from the accuser of the brethren, Satan. Ditch those thoughts quickly before they destroy you.
That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. Ephesians 5:26-27
If Jesus wants to wash us with the water of the Word, shouldn't we be doing the same?
Your Father loves you and His plan for you will bring joy unspeakable. I can't promise you that there will never be pain, but I promise you that He will carry you and the healing will bring a new life that is more than you could have ever imagined or even hoped for.
Let me tell you in case you have forgotten, You are loved, deeply loved.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Pray for Rain
I have always loved rain. Growing up we lived three houses from the St. Johns River. When rain came, I would go down to the river and sit beneath a heavy canopied oak tree and watch the rain come down on the river. It was such a peaceful, cleansing time.
Last week I was awakened by a noisy thunderstorm. I got up and went to the kitchen window and watched the lightning dance. It was quite a show. I crawled back into bed and listened to the symphony of the storm. I loved the mixed notes and thought that we are blessed to serve such a mighty God.
There is another rain coming. A rain that will wash away all heaviness and oppression/ There is a song that says, "Pray for rain when your life is dry and thirsty. Pray for rain when your life is void and empty. Pray for rain when you don't know what to pray; pray for rain."
Fear not, O land; be glad and rejoice: for the LORD will do great things...Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God: for he hath given you the former rain moderately, and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the first [month]...And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpiller, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you. Joel 2:21, 23, 25
Last week I was awakened by a noisy thunderstorm. I got up and went to the kitchen window and watched the lightning dance. It was quite a show. I crawled back into bed and listened to the symphony of the storm. I loved the mixed notes and thought that we are blessed to serve such a mighty God.
There is another rain coming. A rain that will wash away all heaviness and oppression/ There is a song that says, "Pray for rain when your life is dry and thirsty. Pray for rain when your life is void and empty. Pray for rain when you don't know what to pray; pray for rain."
Fear not, O land; be glad and rejoice: for the LORD will do great things...Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God: for he hath given you the former rain moderately, and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the first [month]...And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpiller, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you. Joel 2:21, 23, 25
Monday, April 27, 2009
Wrap Me In Your Arms
I am rarely lonely.
Part of that is very healthy while a secret part uses it as a defense mechanism for withdrawing from the fray. I run away from conflict and let the issue fester until it has to be lanced. That "don't rock the boat" mentality keeps the Lord out of the issue. Jesus not only rocked boats, but He stepped out of one and walked on water.
When we cower and hide, He will not interfere. Instead choose to know that perfect love casts out fear and He is that perfect love. If I must run, I must run into His arms.
Part of that is very healthy while a secret part uses it as a defense mechanism for withdrawing from the fray. I run away from conflict and let the issue fester until it has to be lanced. That "don't rock the boat" mentality keeps the Lord out of the issue. Jesus not only rocked boats, but He stepped out of one and walked on water.
When we cower and hide, He will not interfere. Instead choose to know that perfect love casts out fear and He is that perfect love. If I must run, I must run into His arms.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Hide and Seek with God
You can find God in a child's smile, an unexpected letter and in a flower. God is everywhere if you look. Look expectantly.
It is one of the things that I am really looking forward to in Ireland. How will God reveal Himself to us?
Believe me I will be looking.
I am expecting divine appointments and encounters to both give and to receive.
Shouldn't every day be lived like that?
It is one of the things that I am really looking forward to in Ireland. How will God reveal Himself to us?
Believe me I will be looking.
I am expecting divine appointments and encounters to both give and to receive.
Shouldn't every day be lived like that?
Peace To You and Your House
And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. Mark 4:39
Whatever the storms are in your life, take your peace.
Whatever the storms are in your life, take your peace.
What Kind of Love Do I Have?
We have all been taught the three kinds of love, but I suggest that agape love is really more identifiable as a selfless love. When we give up our right to be right, God can move in our behalf.
There is so much baggage that we bring into a marriage and its family. One word can jerk us back to the past. When we are selfless, there is no trigger.
I am becoming keenly aware of how much fear I have in totally trusting God with those I love. This awareness journey began when one of my daughters took her children away from here. I was extremely angry and bitter. I was convinced harm would come to them all.
However, I did not want to become a bitter woman. So daily, sometimes many times a day, I would repent for my bitterness. I did this for WEEKS until the bitterness lost its grip. It lost when I recognized that I didn't trust God with my daughter or my granddaughters. I repented and released them.
It's not the way I planned, but God sees the expected end. I don't.
There is another war under my roof this week. Voices being raised as each defends their position. More quickly now, I release each to the Lord and remind myself that He know the expected end. He is God and I am not.
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Jer. 29:11
There is so much baggage that we bring into a marriage and its family. One word can jerk us back to the past. When we are selfless, there is no trigger.
I am becoming keenly aware of how much fear I have in totally trusting God with those I love. This awareness journey began when one of my daughters took her children away from here. I was extremely angry and bitter. I was convinced harm would come to them all.
However, I did not want to become a bitter woman. So daily, sometimes many times a day, I would repent for my bitterness. I did this for WEEKS until the bitterness lost its grip. It lost when I recognized that I didn't trust God with my daughter or my granddaughters. I repented and released them.
It's not the way I planned, but God sees the expected end. I don't.
There is another war under my roof this week. Voices being raised as each defends their position. More quickly now, I release each to the Lord and remind myself that He know the expected end. He is God and I am not.
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Jer. 29:11
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Things We Leave Behind
Ray and I moved to this small town eight years ago.
We left behind a lot and there have been regrets for some were hurt in the process.
Through our struggles here, we have found a new life and a deeper love for one another.
My worst weaknesses have been surrendered, generally one by one. (Why did I hold on so long?)
We have a freedom and a peace that we have never experienced before. We live simply, but purposefully.
Maybe God is calling you to leave some things behind.
He has been doing it for centuries.
Another Michard Card song:
Things We Leave Behind
There sits Simon,
so foolishly wise
proudly he's tending his nets
Then Jesus calls,
and the boats drift away
all that he owns he forgets
More than the nets
he abandoned that day,
he found that his pride was soon drifting away
It's hard to imagine the freedom we find
from the things we leave behind
Matthew was mindful
of taking the tax,
pressing the people to pay
Hearing the call,
he responded in faith
followed the Light and the Way
Leaving the people
so puzzled he found,
the greed in his heart
was no longer around and
it's hard to imagine
the freedom we find
from the things
we leave behind
Every heart needs to be set free,
from posessions
that hold it so tight
'Cause freedom's not found in the things that we own,
It's the power
to do what is right
Jesus, our only posession,
giving becomes our delight
We can't imagine the freedom we find
from the things we leave behind
We show a love for the world in our lives
by worshipping goods we posess
Jesus has laid all our treasures aside
"love God above all the rest"
'Cause when we say 'no'
to the things of the world
we open our hearts
to the love of the Lord and
its hard to imagine
the freedom we find
from the things we leave behind
Oh, and it's hard to imagine
the freedom we find
from the things
we leave behind
We left behind a lot and there have been regrets for some were hurt in the process.
Through our struggles here, we have found a new life and a deeper love for one another.
My worst weaknesses have been surrendered, generally one by one. (Why did I hold on so long?)
We have a freedom and a peace that we have never experienced before. We live simply, but purposefully.
Maybe God is calling you to leave some things behind.
He has been doing it for centuries.
Another Michard Card song:
Things We Leave Behind
There sits Simon,
so foolishly wise
proudly he's tending his nets
Then Jesus calls,
and the boats drift away
all that he owns he forgets
More than the nets
he abandoned that day,
he found that his pride was soon drifting away
It's hard to imagine the freedom we find
from the things we leave behind
Matthew was mindful
of taking the tax,
pressing the people to pay
Hearing the call,
he responded in faith
followed the Light and the Way
Leaving the people
so puzzled he found,
the greed in his heart
was no longer around and
it's hard to imagine
the freedom we find
from the things
we leave behind
Every heart needs to be set free,
from posessions
that hold it so tight
'Cause freedom's not found in the things that we own,
It's the power
to do what is right
Jesus, our only posession,
giving becomes our delight
We can't imagine the freedom we find
from the things we leave behind
We show a love for the world in our lives
by worshipping goods we posess
Jesus has laid all our treasures aside
"love God above all the rest"
'Cause when we say 'no'
to the things of the world
we open our hearts
to the love of the Lord and
its hard to imagine
the freedom we find
from the things we leave behind
Oh, and it's hard to imagine
the freedom we find
from the things
we leave behind
The Basin and the Towel
I can remember being divorced and bitter. I was like Scarlet O'Hara, I was going to make it no matter what.
The bestseller of the year was Looking Out for Number #1. Even as a mother of three, that was my goal. No one was going to hurt me again.
I was going to make it and my children weren't going to have to go through what I had been through. Abuse always seemed to follow me. The spirit of victimization was worn like a wet raincoat. Nevertheless, I was a survivor.
Then there began a series of paradigm shifts. I joined a tiny Epicopal mission called St. Mary's. There were 13 members, mostly elderly. So my family increased enrollment by 25%. It was at St. Mary's that I learned about community.
Later after Ray and I were married there, St. Mary's became a shelter for those who lived in Adult Congregate Living Facilities.(ACLFs) Most were mentally disabled.
Ray had a servant's heart. I did not, but I wanted to be a good wife and I followed his lead.
Together we put on a Block Party for 500 people. Over half were ACLFers. The whole Diocese pitched in. The cost to St. Mary's was about $200. We got the mayor to close the streets. We had music, dance, face painting and a Southern barbecue. The people from other churches taught me once again about being a servant.
Still my real "a ha!" moment came when Fr. John asked once in a meeting, "If God asked you to show up each week, walk down the narrow hall of the classrooms and in the room at the end of the hall wash the feet of an elderly woman, could you do it? Could you do it if you could tell no one? No one would know or praise you? Could you do it just for the Father?
That was over 25 years ago, but sometimes when I examine my motives, I hear his questions. Am I doing it for man or as unto the Lord?
Recently I found a Michael Card song that expresses this completely. I have added the lyrics and the music.
THE BASIN AND THE TOWEL
Scribbling in the Sand: The Best of Michael Card (2002)
In an upstairs room, a parable
is just about to come alive.
And while they bicker about who's best,
with a painful glance, He'll silently rise.
Their Savior Servant must show them how
through the will of the water
and the tenderness of the towel.
And the call is to community,
The impoverished power that sets the soul free.
In humility, to take the vow,
that day after day we must take up the basin and the towel.
In any ordinary place,
on any ordinary day,
the parable can live again
when one will kneel and one will yield.
Our Saviour Servant must show us how
through the will of the water
and the tenderness of the towel.
And the space between ourselves sometimes
is more than the distance between the stars.
By the fragile bridge of the Servant's bow
we take up the basin and the towel.
The bestseller of the year was Looking Out for Number #1. Even as a mother of three, that was my goal. No one was going to hurt me again.
I was going to make it and my children weren't going to have to go through what I had been through. Abuse always seemed to follow me. The spirit of victimization was worn like a wet raincoat. Nevertheless, I was a survivor.
Then there began a series of paradigm shifts. I joined a tiny Epicopal mission called St. Mary's. There were 13 members, mostly elderly. So my family increased enrollment by 25%. It was at St. Mary's that I learned about community.
Later after Ray and I were married there, St. Mary's became a shelter for those who lived in Adult Congregate Living Facilities.(ACLFs) Most were mentally disabled.
Ray had a servant's heart. I did not, but I wanted to be a good wife and I followed his lead.
Together we put on a Block Party for 500 people. Over half were ACLFers. The whole Diocese pitched in. The cost to St. Mary's was about $200. We got the mayor to close the streets. We had music, dance, face painting and a Southern barbecue. The people from other churches taught me once again about being a servant.
Still my real "a ha!" moment came when Fr. John asked once in a meeting, "If God asked you to show up each week, walk down the narrow hall of the classrooms and in the room at the end of the hall wash the feet of an elderly woman, could you do it? Could you do it if you could tell no one? No one would know or praise you? Could you do it just for the Father?
That was over 25 years ago, but sometimes when I examine my motives, I hear his questions. Am I doing it for man or as unto the Lord?
Recently I found a Michael Card song that expresses this completely. I have added the lyrics and the music.
THE BASIN AND THE TOWEL
Scribbling in the Sand: The Best of Michael Card (2002)
In an upstairs room, a parable
is just about to come alive.
And while they bicker about who's best,
with a painful glance, He'll silently rise.
Their Savior Servant must show them how
through the will of the water
and the tenderness of the towel.
And the call is to community,
The impoverished power that sets the soul free.
In humility, to take the vow,
that day after day we must take up the basin and the towel.
In any ordinary place,
on any ordinary day,
the parable can live again
when one will kneel and one will yield.
Our Saviour Servant must show us how
through the will of the water
and the tenderness of the towel.
And the space between ourselves sometimes
is more than the distance between the stars.
By the fragile bridge of the Servant's bow
we take up the basin and the towel.
The Hand of the Father
Ray and I have seen the hand of the Father in designing our travel plans for Ireland. This week he got a letter from his Aunt Anna, 83, who gave him towns and names names of ancestors to seek in the Waterford area. This will be a delightful hide and seek game.
He has given us the ability to exchange dollars into Euros at no fee.
He has given us a guide for Dublin.
The myriad of ways that He has woven this adventure together is awesome.
I am reminded daily of how much our Father god loves us.
We are trusting Him at a level we have never trusted Him before. Leaving our familial support and ways behind, we are going on an adventure with God and have no idea what each day will hold. We decided NOT to make a single reservation for lodging, but rather go where the Father leads us. We want to be a blessing to the people there and are expecting to see God's hand in it.
Can you take six minutes to listen to this Love Letter from the Father?
You see He loves you as much as He does us for He is not a respector of persons.
He has given us the ability to exchange dollars into Euros at no fee.
He has given us a guide for Dublin.
The myriad of ways that He has woven this adventure together is awesome.
I am reminded daily of how much our Father god loves us.
We are trusting Him at a level we have never trusted Him before. Leaving our familial support and ways behind, we are going on an adventure with God and have no idea what each day will hold. We decided NOT to make a single reservation for lodging, but rather go where the Father leads us. We want to be a blessing to the people there and are expecting to see God's hand in it.
Can you take six minutes to listen to this Love Letter from the Father?
You see He loves you as much as He does us for He is not a respector of persons.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
He Shall Bring It to Pass
Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring [it] to pass. Psalm 37:4
Many times I have committed my ways to the Lord, but I haven't trusted Him and I try to bring it to pass.
Guess what?
It doesn't work.
This trip to Ireland has been a bit intense because it is stretching us so much. However, it has been fun and easy. God continues to bring in resources in the most unexpected ways. One customer who usually buys $30 a month, bought over $400 worth of Mary Kay when the airline lost her luggage. Ray has gotten some "fix-it" jobs.
We aren't holding back at any level. We are continuing to give out as the Lord prompts and He is multiplying back.
We aren't making any reservations for lodging except for some time we will spend with a friend. This is a trust journey. We are committing our ways to the Lord and asking Him to bring us to the places He wants us to say to encourage someone or to be encouraged ourselves.
We have such peace about this trip. This is a breakthrough journey. We will return changed, not because of Ireland, but because of time away as a couple, the faith it took to even commit to going, the divine encounters He will bring and more that He will reveal.
I know we will never be the same.
Found a song by Hillsong that describes where we are:
With All I Am
by Hillsong United
album: For All You've Done (2004)
into your hand
i commit again
with all I am
for you Lord
you hold my world
in the palm of your hand
and I'm yours forever
CHORUS
Jesus I believe in you
Jesus I belong to you
you're the reason that I live
the reason that I sing
with all I am
I'll walk with you
wherever you go
through tears and joy
I'll trust in you
and I will live
in all of your ways and
your promises forever
CHORUS
I will worship I will worship you forever
CHORUS
Many times I have committed my ways to the Lord, but I haven't trusted Him and I try to bring it to pass.
Guess what?
It doesn't work.
This trip to Ireland has been a bit intense because it is stretching us so much. However, it has been fun and easy. God continues to bring in resources in the most unexpected ways. One customer who usually buys $30 a month, bought over $400 worth of Mary Kay when the airline lost her luggage. Ray has gotten some "fix-it" jobs.
We aren't holding back at any level. We are continuing to give out as the Lord prompts and He is multiplying back.
We aren't making any reservations for lodging except for some time we will spend with a friend. This is a trust journey. We are committing our ways to the Lord and asking Him to bring us to the places He wants us to say to encourage someone or to be encouraged ourselves.
We have such peace about this trip. This is a breakthrough journey. We will return changed, not because of Ireland, but because of time away as a couple, the faith it took to even commit to going, the divine encounters He will bring and more that He will reveal.
I know we will never be the same.
Found a song by Hillsong that describes where we are:
With All I Am
by Hillsong United
album: For All You've Done (2004)
into your hand
i commit again
with all I am
for you Lord
you hold my world
in the palm of your hand
and I'm yours forever
CHORUS
Jesus I believe in you
Jesus I belong to you
you're the reason that I live
the reason that I sing
with all I am
I'll walk with you
wherever you go
through tears and joy
I'll trust in you
and I will live
in all of your ways and
your promises forever
CHORUS
I will worship I will worship you forever
CHORUS
Sunday, April 12, 2009
What Promises Are You Waiting to Come?
When Abraham was 75 years, God promised to give him descendants that would create a great nation.
Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: Genesis 12:1-2
It was hard for me to leave Jacksonville. I had phone, internet, USPS and a car to keep me connected to it. Abraham left it ALL behind- country, kindred and his father's house (which represents inheritance.) THEN God would make of him a great nation.
At age 99, Abraham was still waiting. Still he did not go back to his old familiar life. He believe in God Almighty - El Shaddai- whose very name refers to His all sufficiency and mighty power to accomplish His promises.
God's ways are not often ours. He asked Abraham to circumcise ALL boys and men in his household including himself.
Can you even fathom undergoing circumcision at age 99? Yet God always asks us to cut away the flesh before He can use us to fulfill His will for our lives.
Each of us must get before God and ask what fleshly thing must be cut from our life to better serve Him?
I know what mine is. Do you know what He is asking you to cut away?
Painful?
I guarantee it.
Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected [us], and we gave [them] reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? For they verily for a few days chastened [us] after their own pleasure; but he for [our] profit, that [we] might be partakers of his holiness. Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby. Hebrews 12:9-11
Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: Genesis 12:1-2
It was hard for me to leave Jacksonville. I had phone, internet, USPS and a car to keep me connected to it. Abraham left it ALL behind- country, kindred and his father's house (which represents inheritance.) THEN God would make of him a great nation.
At age 99, Abraham was still waiting. Still he did not go back to his old familiar life. He believe in God Almighty - El Shaddai- whose very name refers to His all sufficiency and mighty power to accomplish His promises.
God's ways are not often ours. He asked Abraham to circumcise ALL boys and men in his household including himself.
Can you even fathom undergoing circumcision at age 99? Yet God always asks us to cut away the flesh before He can use us to fulfill His will for our lives.
Each of us must get before God and ask what fleshly thing must be cut from our life to better serve Him?
I know what mine is. Do you know what He is asking you to cut away?
Painful?
I guarantee it.
Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected [us], and we gave [them] reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? For they verily for a few days chastened [us] after their own pleasure; but he for [our] profit, that [we] might be partakers of his holiness. Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby. Hebrews 12:9-11
How Will You Finish?
Eight years ago on Easter Sunday, Ray and I drove into Thomaston, GA, a small town of about 10,000 people. We came here to try to save my life. I was 56 and a cardiologist said I wouldn't see 60. Just months before I had been introduced to a ministry of Pleasant Valley Church called For My Life. It had already wrought tremendous changes in my life, but I knew if I stayed in Jacksonville, I would just go back to the way I was. So I left my mother, my children and my grandchildren to begin anew. My emotions felt like they were in a high speed blender. I had a lot of guilt for leaving everyone.
We left our furniture on the truck and crashed on the carpet of the living room before getting up to go to church. When church began, Ray began to cry. He was extremely pale. He told me he was going to the car. It really scared me. I dug in my purse for a nitroglycerin patch and went to the parking lot to find him. All that was going through my mind was, "Oh, great, I have killed my husband trying to save my own life."
Tears were streaming down his face when I found him. So naturally I started crying, too. I said, "Honey, what's wrong? Is it your heart?"
His eyes widened.
"NO! I just was overcome, because I have never seen you so happy."
He had laid down everything to save my life, because he loves me unconditionally.
A pastor once told me, "Diane, there is no reason your marriage should work, because of your backgrounds. But Ray has never given up on you. Still as much as Ray loves you, God loves you even more. You wouldn't believe it. So He sent you Ray so you could see love in action."
Eight years a miracle began and there have been times that I have not treated it in the reverence it deserves, Every day is indeed a miracle. I have already had about 1360 more days than the surgeon said I would.
How many have I fully lived?
Jesus came that we might have live abundantly.
The house we live in is a piece of that abundance. Although we had owned investment property, we had never owned a personal home until we moved here. It isn't fancy, but it is a place of refuge and hospitality
So many pieces of life's puzzle have been found here. I have even picked up some wrong pieces and tried to shove them in, but they didn't fit. Yet the picture is still not complete.
I purpose to live my life with gratitude and in His abundance. I want to finish well.
We left our furniture on the truck and crashed on the carpet of the living room before getting up to go to church. When church began, Ray began to cry. He was extremely pale. He told me he was going to the car. It really scared me. I dug in my purse for a nitroglycerin patch and went to the parking lot to find him. All that was going through my mind was, "Oh, great, I have killed my husband trying to save my own life."
Tears were streaming down his face when I found him. So naturally I started crying, too. I said, "Honey, what's wrong? Is it your heart?"
His eyes widened.
"NO! I just was overcome, because I have never seen you so happy."
He had laid down everything to save my life, because he loves me unconditionally.
A pastor once told me, "Diane, there is no reason your marriage should work, because of your backgrounds. But Ray has never given up on you. Still as much as Ray loves you, God loves you even more. You wouldn't believe it. So He sent you Ray so you could see love in action."
Eight years a miracle began and there have been times that I have not treated it in the reverence it deserves, Every day is indeed a miracle. I have already had about 1360 more days than the surgeon said I would.
How many have I fully lived?
Jesus came that we might have live abundantly.
The house we live in is a piece of that abundance. Although we had owned investment property, we had never owned a personal home until we moved here. It isn't fancy, but it is a place of refuge and hospitality
So many pieces of life's puzzle have been found here. I have even picked up some wrong pieces and tried to shove them in, but they didn't fit. Yet the picture is still not complete.
I purpose to live my life with gratitude and in His abundance. I want to finish well.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Two Ways to Live Your Life
"There are two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle ."
Albert Einstein
When Ray and I were missionaries in Lesotho, the Basotho would begin their testimony with "I praise God for my life." These were people whose family lived on less than $30 a month with no electricity, plumbing, telephone, or personal transportation. Their main meal was pap, a traditional porridge made from mielie-meal, ground maize. It was like thick grits. Mama would make up a big pot and they would eat it for days.
Yet they had an attitude of gratitude for the smallest of things. They were humble and joyful.
Tomorrow is Easter. My Jesus said that He came that I might have life and not only that but have it more abundantly. (John 10:10)
He died to give me an abundant life. If that is not what my life represents especially in the things that money cannot buy, I need to find out who/what the thief is. For the first part of that verse says, "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy..." What choices have I made that opened the door to the thief. Once identified, I need to take responsibility for those choices and repent. Then, and only then can I enjoy the abundant life He promised.
I praise God for my life.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Finishing Well
All of this year Ray and I have been working to save enough money to realize a dream we have had for 30 years and that is to go to Ireland. Last week we bought the tickets, but that is less than half of the total cost and we have just eight weeks before we leave.
I have a Mary Kay business that provides a supplementary income. I have seen it take off this year and the more it did, the harder I worked, the more stressed I became until I finally recognized that I was relying on my own strength and my own wit.
Then this morning I read another definition of planning for success:
Planning for Success
TGIF Today God Is First by Os Hillman
04-10-2009
"I know, O Lord, that a man's life is not his own; it is not for man to direct his steps." - Jeremiah 10:23
In business I hear a lot about planning. Every January I hear workplace believers establishing their planning for the year. Corporations establish plans that cover anywhere from one to five years. Individuals establish personal life plans. There is only one problem that I see with most planning done by well-meaning believers. If God is not the originator and director of the plan, then that plan is doomed for failure. So often, Christian workplace believers set out to plan something that seems good in their own mind. The merits of what is being planned can look great, and it can even be a worthy endeavor. However, that is not the point. When Jesus said He came only to do the will of the Father, He could not consider doing anything that was not what the Father wanted, no matter how good or righteous it might appear to be.
"In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps" (Prov. 16:9). God must give us the vision for what He calls us to do. After we have the vision, we must ask Him if He wants us to take action on that vision and what the action steps entail. The Lord wants to direct each step of the planning process. David learned this lesson when he went to battle against his enemy, the Philistines. One day he inquired of God as to whether he was to go up against the Philistines, and the Lord said, "Yes, but only when you hear the marching in the balsam trees." It is a mistake to reason and analyze in order to come to a decision on a matter. The Lord already knows the answer. It is our responsibility to seek Him to find out His mind on the matter. Our planning must be established in Him. Only when we remain so connected to the source can we be assured of putting God's plan into place. Also, getting that plan confirmed through others will assure that we are not following the deceit of our own heart.
When you begin to plan next time, ask God for His wisdom for establishing the vision and action steps. You will be surprised how well He can plan."
Tonight I watched Flywheel. Between the two events I have re-dedicated my business to the Lord. It is time to amp my my faith in God. Without Him I can do nothing.
Hope you will watch this trailer of the movie and then go get it.
I have a Mary Kay business that provides a supplementary income. I have seen it take off this year and the more it did, the harder I worked, the more stressed I became until I finally recognized that I was relying on my own strength and my own wit.
Then this morning I read another definition of planning for success:
Planning for Success
TGIF Today God Is First by Os Hillman
04-10-2009
"I know, O Lord, that a man's life is not his own; it is not for man to direct his steps." - Jeremiah 10:23
In business I hear a lot about planning. Every January I hear workplace believers establishing their planning for the year. Corporations establish plans that cover anywhere from one to five years. Individuals establish personal life plans. There is only one problem that I see with most planning done by well-meaning believers. If God is not the originator and director of the plan, then that plan is doomed for failure. So often, Christian workplace believers set out to plan something that seems good in their own mind. The merits of what is being planned can look great, and it can even be a worthy endeavor. However, that is not the point. When Jesus said He came only to do the will of the Father, He could not consider doing anything that was not what the Father wanted, no matter how good or righteous it might appear to be.
"In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps" (Prov. 16:9). God must give us the vision for what He calls us to do. After we have the vision, we must ask Him if He wants us to take action on that vision and what the action steps entail. The Lord wants to direct each step of the planning process. David learned this lesson when he went to battle against his enemy, the Philistines. One day he inquired of God as to whether he was to go up against the Philistines, and the Lord said, "Yes, but only when you hear the marching in the balsam trees." It is a mistake to reason and analyze in order to come to a decision on a matter. The Lord already knows the answer. It is our responsibility to seek Him to find out His mind on the matter. Our planning must be established in Him. Only when we remain so connected to the source can we be assured of putting God's plan into place. Also, getting that plan confirmed through others will assure that we are not following the deceit of our own heart.
When you begin to plan next time, ask God for His wisdom for establishing the vision and action steps. You will be surprised how well He can plan."
Tonight I watched Flywheel. Between the two events I have re-dedicated my business to the Lord. It is time to amp my my faith in God. Without Him I can do nothing.
Hope you will watch this trailer of the movie and then go get it.
Learning to Rest
Almost 29 years ago I first heard the concept of resting in the Lord. (Heb. 4) and yet I often feel I am no closer to fully embracing His rest. The closer I get to it, the more I recognize how much fear I have in absolute surrender, the irrevocable kind. I think Ireland could be a trust walk if I make no reservations, but simply stop when He says stop. A time where I lean back and trust Him to catch me. The risks are fewer, because my livelihood is not on the line.
I get into performance and drivenness on the job trying to do things RIGHT. Here there is no RIGHT. Ray could care less whether we spend the night in Tramore or Dunmore East. There are, of course, certain sights we want to see, but they don't have to be done on a specific day.Perhaps I can even learn more fully what taking my peace is all about.
Today I am staying home from work. I have been drooling for a couple of days. I don't know if it is from a broken tooth that I am choosing to ignore or something more serious. I do know that I am tired and wound tighter than a banjo string. So I am going outside to pot some plants and then when the sun is out come in and finish writing an article for the Journal and start another. I am believing that in this slower pace, I can hear God say, "This is the way, walk in it."
Our Sunday service was powerful and one of the songs that Mary Pat shared (a favorite of Pastor Anita) was Order My Steps in Your Word.
I am posting the lyrics and then the video. What a way to live!
Chorus 1
Order my steps in Your word dear Lord,
lead me, guide me everyday,
send Your anointing, Father I pray;
order my steps in Your word,
please, order my steps in Your word.
Verse 1
Humbly, I ask Thee to teach me Your will,
while You are working, help me be still,
Satan is busy, but my God is real;
order my steps in Your word,
please, order my steps in Your word.
Verse 2
Bridle my tongue let my words edify,
let the words of my mouth be acceptable in Thy sight,
take charge of my thoughts both day and night;
please order my steps in Your word,
please order my steps in Your word.
Bridge
I want to walk worthy,
my calling to fulfill.
Please order my steps Lord,
and I'll do Your blessed will.
The world is ever changing,
but You are still the same;
if You order my steps, I'll praise Your name.
Order my steps in Your word.
Order my tongue in Your word.
Guide my feet in Your word.
Wash my heart in Your word.
Show me how to walk in Your word.
Show me how to talk in Your word.
When I need a brand new song to sing,
show me how to let Your praises ring,
in Your word, in Your word.
Chorus 2
Please order my steps in Your word,
please order my steps in Your word.
Ending
Please order my steps in Your word.
I get into performance and drivenness on the job trying to do things RIGHT. Here there is no RIGHT. Ray could care less whether we spend the night in Tramore or Dunmore East. There are, of course, certain sights we want to see, but they don't have to be done on a specific day.Perhaps I can even learn more fully what taking my peace is all about.
Today I am staying home from work. I have been drooling for a couple of days. I don't know if it is from a broken tooth that I am choosing to ignore or something more serious. I do know that I am tired and wound tighter than a banjo string. So I am going outside to pot some plants and then when the sun is out come in and finish writing an article for the Journal and start another. I am believing that in this slower pace, I can hear God say, "This is the way, walk in it."
Our Sunday service was powerful and one of the songs that Mary Pat shared (a favorite of Pastor Anita) was Order My Steps in Your Word.
I am posting the lyrics and then the video. What a way to live!
Chorus 1
Order my steps in Your word dear Lord,
lead me, guide me everyday,
send Your anointing, Father I pray;
order my steps in Your word,
please, order my steps in Your word.
Verse 1
Humbly, I ask Thee to teach me Your will,
while You are working, help me be still,
Satan is busy, but my God is real;
order my steps in Your word,
please, order my steps in Your word.
Verse 2
Bridle my tongue let my words edify,
let the words of my mouth be acceptable in Thy sight,
take charge of my thoughts both day and night;
please order my steps in Your word,
please order my steps in Your word.
Bridge
I want to walk worthy,
my calling to fulfill.
Please order my steps Lord,
and I'll do Your blessed will.
The world is ever changing,
but You are still the same;
if You order my steps, I'll praise Your name.
Order my steps in Your word.
Order my tongue in Your word.
Guide my feet in Your word.
Wash my heart in Your word.
Show me how to walk in Your word.
Show me how to talk in Your word.
When I need a brand new song to sing,
show me how to let Your praises ring,
in Your word, in Your word.
Chorus 2
Please order my steps in Your word,
please order my steps in Your word.
Ending
Please order my steps in Your word.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Too Busy to Listen
Sometimes I think we are so busy getting "there" -wherever that might be- that we never really see what God has set before us to see or hear and most importantly to do. My own son called me on it yesterday. He said you and Dad are so focused on getting to Ireland that you don't take time to have fun. He is someone who needs to be heard, but he talks so much sometimes that I find myself half listening. Although he is a grown man, I know that God often uses our children to speak into our lives. What have I missed?
I received a powerful email today. I am attaching it below. I do not know who the author is. So I cannot give proper credit. However, I would like for you to reflect on what the gift of time can mean to someone. I sure am.
Just Stay
A nurse took the tired, anxious serviceman to the bedside.
'Your son is here,' she said to the old man.
She had to repeat the words several times before the patient's eyes opened.
He was heavily sedated because of the pain of his heart attack, he dimly saw the young uniformed Marine standing outside the oxygen tent. He reached out his hand. The Marine wrapped his toughened fingers around the old man's limp ones, squeezing a message of love and encouragement.
The nurse brought a chair so that the Marine could sit beside the bed.All through the night the young Marine sat there in the poorly lighted ward, holding the old man's hand and offering him words of love and strength. Occasionally, the nurse suggested that the Marine move away and rest awhile.He refused. Whenever the nurse came into the ward, the Marine was oblivious of her and of the night noises of the hospital - the clanking of the oxygen tank, the laughter of the night staff members exchanging greetings, the cries and moans of the other patients.
Now and then she heard him say a few gentle words. The dying man said nothing, only held tightly to his son all through the night.
Along towards dawn, the old man died. The Marine released the now lifeless hand he had been holding and went to tell the nurse. While she did what she had to do, he waited.
Finally, she returned. She started to offer words of sympathy, but the Marine interrupted her.
'Who was that man?' he asked. The nurse was startled, 'He was your father,' she answered. 'No, he wasn't,' the Marine replied. 'I never saw him before in my life.'
'Then why didn't you say something when I took you to him?'
'I knew right away there had been a mistake, but I also knew he needed his son, and his son just wasn't here. When I realized that he was too sick to tell whether or not I was his son, knowing how much he needed me, I stayed.'
The next time someone needs you ...
just be there. Stay.
I received a powerful email today. I am attaching it below. I do not know who the author is. So I cannot give proper credit. However, I would like for you to reflect on what the gift of time can mean to someone. I sure am.
Just Stay
A nurse took the tired, anxious serviceman to the bedside.
'Your son is here,' she said to the old man.
She had to repeat the words several times before the patient's eyes opened.
He was heavily sedated because of the pain of his heart attack, he dimly saw the young uniformed Marine standing outside the oxygen tent. He reached out his hand. The Marine wrapped his toughened fingers around the old man's limp ones, squeezing a message of love and encouragement.
The nurse brought a chair so that the Marine could sit beside the bed.All through the night the young Marine sat there in the poorly lighted ward, holding the old man's hand and offering him words of love and strength. Occasionally, the nurse suggested that the Marine move away and rest awhile.He refused. Whenever the nurse came into the ward, the Marine was oblivious of her and of the night noises of the hospital - the clanking of the oxygen tank, the laughter of the night staff members exchanging greetings, the cries and moans of the other patients.
Now and then she heard him say a few gentle words. The dying man said nothing, only held tightly to his son all through the night.
Along towards dawn, the old man died. The Marine released the now lifeless hand he had been holding and went to tell the nurse. While she did what she had to do, he waited.
Finally, she returned. She started to offer words of sympathy, but the Marine interrupted her.
'Who was that man?' he asked. The nurse was startled, 'He was your father,' she answered. 'No, he wasn't,' the Marine replied. 'I never saw him before in my life.'
'Then why didn't you say something when I took you to him?'
'I knew right away there had been a mistake, but I also knew he needed his son, and his son just wasn't here. When I realized that he was too sick to tell whether or not I was his son, knowing how much he needed me, I stayed.'
The next time someone needs you ...
just be there. Stay.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
We've Got Our Tickets to Ireland!
We came close to buying our tickets last Saturday, but something said wait. We did and saved over $300!
We believe God is going to meet every expense perfectly and expect this to be an "exceedingly abundantly" second honeymoon. Ray is certainly God's gift to me and I am looking forward to some one on one time with him going back to his roots in Dungarvan.
Please keep us in your prayers. We are expecting Divine appointments and encounters.
Two special videos for you to watch!
We believe God is going to meet every expense perfectly and expect this to be an "exceedingly abundantly" second honeymoon. Ray is certainly God's gift to me and I am looking forward to some one on one time with him going back to his roots in Dungarvan.
Please keep us in your prayers. We are expecting Divine appointments and encounters.
Two special videos for you to watch!
Monday, March 30, 2009
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Are You Listening?
God speaks to us in many ways. Sometimes it in a question from a child or a bird singing near the window. You must be quiet to hear Him speak to you.
Are you listening?
In times of desperation, I have been so busy rattling off my concerns, that frankly He could not have gotten a word in edgewise. Then I wonder why He didn't answer.
My thoughts are not always His. Not all good ideas are God ideas. He has a plan and purpose for my life. It is not a one size fits all. It is individually suited for me. Still I cannot use my individuality, my uniqueness as a mask for rebellion. It is not to be my way, but His.
In listening, I can fine tune the itinerary to reach His destination for love, joy and peace. Isn't that we really want anyway?
Are you listening?
In times of desperation, I have been so busy rattling off my concerns, that frankly He could not have gotten a word in edgewise. Then I wonder why He didn't answer.
My thoughts are not always His. Not all good ideas are God ideas. He has a plan and purpose for my life. It is not a one size fits all. It is individually suited for me. Still I cannot use my individuality, my uniqueness as a mask for rebellion. It is not to be my way, but His.
In listening, I can fine tune the itinerary to reach His destination for love, joy and peace. Isn't that we really want anyway?
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Awaken the artist witnin yourself and paint
The older I get the more important it is to me to leave something behind. How will I be remembered? In my 30s, I was very selfish. A great deal of that was to protect myself from further abuse. Then I met Ray.
Ray got a real tiger by the tail when he married me. We laugh now and say, he re-wrote The Taming of the Shrew (good old boy style.) He never gave up on me even when loving me was like loving a porcupine or hugging a telephone pole.
Mary Kay has taught me a great deal about giving love. I mostly do the one on one facial so I can spend time with the woman sharing that no matter where she is in this journey called life, she is beautiful, a creation of Father God.
I have had some cry saying that no one has ever told them they were special before. That should not be so.
I am sorting books for a huge garage sale next weekend, and I found one by Lee Ann Womack called Something Worth Leaving Behind. The following is a quote from it:
"You are the artist who paints a masterpiece
In the lives of those around you.
Maybe you are doing it right now.
Maybe you will do it tomorrow.
Or the day after that.
But you WILL make a difference.
You will make a beautiful difference.
With words of encouragement,
Words of hope,
With a smile...
A long hug...
A heart felt "thank you."
There are canvases
All around you.
Some are in desperate need of what only you can offer.
Awaken the artist within you and
PAINT
A masterpiece?
YES..
A living, breathing, masterpiece!
How?
One person at a time.
One stroke at a time
With the color of...
LOVE."
One of my favorite scriptures is Romans 5:5, "... the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us."
You are deeply loved, pass it on.
Ray got a real tiger by the tail when he married me. We laugh now and say, he re-wrote The Taming of the Shrew (good old boy style.) He never gave up on me even when loving me was like loving a porcupine or hugging a telephone pole.
Mary Kay has taught me a great deal about giving love. I mostly do the one on one facial so I can spend time with the woman sharing that no matter where she is in this journey called life, she is beautiful, a creation of Father God.
I have had some cry saying that no one has ever told them they were special before. That should not be so.
I am sorting books for a huge garage sale next weekend, and I found one by Lee Ann Womack called Something Worth Leaving Behind. The following is a quote from it:
"You are the artist who paints a masterpiece
In the lives of those around you.
Maybe you are doing it right now.
Maybe you will do it tomorrow.
Or the day after that.
But you WILL make a difference.
You will make a beautiful difference.
With words of encouragement,
Words of hope,
With a smile...
A long hug...
A heart felt "thank you."
There are canvases
All around you.
Some are in desperate need of what only you can offer.
Awaken the artist within you and
PAINT
A masterpiece?
YES..
A living, breathing, masterpiece!
How?
One person at a time.
One stroke at a time
With the color of...
LOVE."
One of my favorite scriptures is Romans 5:5, "... the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us."
You are deeply loved, pass it on.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Time Out
Ray and I were given an opportunity to stay in an 1885 cabin. It was originally a tobacco drying house. Our friends, Rick and Mary Pat, own StillMeadows and needed a passive caretaker for their property and dogs.
There is no television. However, in the cabin we stayed in, there was internet access and sometimes our cell phones worked.
It was time to be together, plan our trip to Ireland which is fast approaching and totally relax.
When I laid down at night, I could look out the window through the pine trees to the lake. It was very much like Northern Florida where I was born and raised. There was quiet that soothed the soul.
Sometimes I don't think that we realize how wound up we are until we really step out of every day sounds and demands and soak in blissful quiet. Watching the sun set over the lake was equally relaxing.
What a rich gift of time we were given. I remember when my friend, Sharon, gave me her cabin for a week. It strengthened me.
In quiet there is healing and after the restoration of your soul you are free to dream again. Time and stress are dream snatchers.
I was reminded while away how important it is to take time and be still. Whether it is a cabin in the woods or a bubble bath, be still; be quiet. Dare to dream.
There is no television. However, in the cabin we stayed in, there was internet access and sometimes our cell phones worked.
It was time to be together, plan our trip to Ireland which is fast approaching and totally relax.
When I laid down at night, I could look out the window through the pine trees to the lake. It was very much like Northern Florida where I was born and raised. There was quiet that soothed the soul.
Sometimes I don't think that we realize how wound up we are until we really step out of every day sounds and demands and soak in blissful quiet. Watching the sun set over the lake was equally relaxing.
What a rich gift of time we were given. I remember when my friend, Sharon, gave me her cabin for a week. It strengthened me.
In quiet there is healing and after the restoration of your soul you are free to dream again. Time and stress are dream snatchers.
I was reminded while away how important it is to take time and be still. Whether it is a cabin in the woods or a bubble bath, be still; be quiet. Dare to dream.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Are You Living or Going through the Motions?
Each day is a gift. Are you living it to its fullest or taking it for granted?
I slept until 9 am. A rare treat for me. When I finally got up, I purposed to make this day special for resting and loving.
What loving thing can I do for others to make their day special as well?
Phone call? Email? A real handwritten letter? Even a smile at a stranger or an encouraging word is a gift to others.
Everyone has something to contribute to the this world. Better to give today for tomorrow is not promised.
I slept until 9 am. A rare treat for me. When I finally got up, I purposed to make this day special for resting and loving.
What loving thing can I do for others to make their day special as well?
Phone call? Email? A real handwritten letter? Even a smile at a stranger or an encouraging word is a gift to others.
Everyone has something to contribute to the this world. Better to give today for tomorrow is not promised.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
God, Be My Everything
Whether it is our trip to Ireland, finishing a Journal for the ministry I work for or my Mary Kay goals if God is not first, it is just wood, hay and stubble.
Nothing can be more important than my relationship with Him. No fear can cancel my faith. He must be my everything.
Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.
To delight means to totally surrender. To make Him your everything.
It is a journey to cut out the things in our lives that do not reflect Him. The destination brings joy unspeakable and peace that passes all understanding. It is well worth the journey.
Nothing can be more important than my relationship with Him. No fear can cancel my faith. He must be my everything.
Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.
To delight means to totally surrender. To make Him your everything.
It is a journey to cut out the things in our lives that do not reflect Him. The destination brings joy unspeakable and peace that passes all understanding. It is well worth the journey.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Create in Me a Clean Heart, O God
Today for our Sunday service, we had a four hour prayer meeting. It was both powerful and peaceful. I have never been in one like it before.
At one point someone read the third chapter of 2 Timothy:
his know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,
Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.
But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all [men], as theirs also was.
But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,
Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of [them] all the Lord delivered me.
Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned [them];
And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
It was a holy time with much repentance for our own sins.
Then we sang Change My Heart, O God.
Will you sing it with me now?
At one point someone read the third chapter of 2 Timothy:
his know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,
Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.
But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all [men], as theirs also was.
But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,
Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of [them] all the Lord delivered me.
Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned [them];
And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
It was a holy time with much repentance for our own sins.
Then we sang Change My Heart, O God.
Will you sing it with me now?
Saturday, March 14, 2009
The Buzzard, the Bat and the Bumblebee
I was sent this through an email. I do not know its author.
THE BUZZARD
If you put a buzzard in a pen that is 6 feet by 8 feet and is entirely open at the top, the bird, in spite of its ability to fly, will be an absolute prisoner. The reason is that a buzzard always begins a flight from the ground with a run of 10 to 12 feet. Without space to run, as is its habit, it will not even attempt to
fly, but will remain a prisoner for life in a small jail with no top.
THE BAT:
The ordinary bat that flies around at night, a remarkable nimble creature in the air, cannot take off from a level place. If it is placed on the floor or flat ground, all it can do is shuffle about helplessly and, no doubt, painfully, until it reaches some slight elevation from which it can throw itself
into the air. Then, at once, it takes off like flash!
THE BUMBLEBEE:
A bumblebee, if dropped into an open tumbler, will be there until it dies, unless it is taken out. It never sees the means of escape at the top, but persists in trying to find some way out through the sides near the bottom. It will seek a way where none exists, until it completely destroys itself.
PEOPLE:
In many ways, we are like the buzzard, the bat, and the bumblebee.
We struggle about with all our problems and frustrations, never realizing that all we have to do is look up!
Sorrow looks back, Worry looks around, BUT faith looks up!
Live simply, love generously, care deeply, speak kindly and trust
THE BUZZARD
If you put a buzzard in a pen that is 6 feet by 8 feet and is entirely open at the top, the bird, in spite of its ability to fly, will be an absolute prisoner. The reason is that a buzzard always begins a flight from the ground with a run of 10 to 12 feet. Without space to run, as is its habit, it will not even attempt to
fly, but will remain a prisoner for life in a small jail with no top.
THE BAT:
The ordinary bat that flies around at night, a remarkable nimble creature in the air, cannot take off from a level place. If it is placed on the floor or flat ground, all it can do is shuffle about helplessly and, no doubt, painfully, until it reaches some slight elevation from which it can throw itself
into the air. Then, at once, it takes off like flash!
THE BUMBLEBEE:
A bumblebee, if dropped into an open tumbler, will be there until it dies, unless it is taken out. It never sees the means of escape at the top, but persists in trying to find some way out through the sides near the bottom. It will seek a way where none exists, until it completely destroys itself.
PEOPLE:
In many ways, we are like the buzzard, the bat, and the bumblebee.
We struggle about with all our problems and frustrations, never realizing that all we have to do is look up!
Sorrow looks back, Worry looks around, BUT faith looks up!
Live simply, love generously, care deeply, speak kindly and trust
Sunday, March 8, 2009
What Does God Want to Achieve Through Your Life Today?
Each morning when I open my computer, I receive a short devotional from TGIF Today God Is First daily devotionals which is a service of www.9to5bythebay.com.
They have a real heart to bring the Lord to the marketplace. Too often we compartmentalize our life keeping our faith separate from our work. I work for a ministry so it isn't an issue there, but I also sell Mary Kay. I need balance in my life so that I don't go running after goals that aren't God's best for me.
Yesterday's devotion ended with the following written by Os Hillman:
"Today we find many Christian workplace believers living a status quo relationship with God that is more characterized as "business as usual" than a life demonstrating God's power. Our focus is often more concerned with improving our standard of living than improving the Kingdom of God through our circle of influence. While this takes place, millions upon millions die without the saving grace of Christ. Many other Christians die never experiencing the freedom in Christ that His blood paid for. God has called each of us to live for a cause greater than ourselves - a life that is dependent on His grace and power to achieve things we never thought possible through our lives. This is His plan for your life. The apostle Paul prayed that He might experience the power of the resurrection in his life. This power is available to you and me to live for a cause greater than ourselves. Ask God what He wants to achieve through your life today. And consider yourself dead already to the consequences of what that might mean for you.
All day long those last two sentences played in my head. I even made a small poster to keep it in front of me.
Ray say it and said, he overheard someone on the trip from the airport say, " If God told you to do it, why question it? If God did not tell you to do it, then why do it?"
Ever since we began planning the trip to Ireland, I have felt led by the Lord. We have wanted to go for 30 years. But I knew in my "knower" this was the time. I even feel it is not just for ourselves that we are going. I feel as if we are going to deposit something in the lives of people that I do not even know today. I know we won't come back the same either. There will be a paradigm shift- perhaps most markedly for Ray as he returns to the roots of his ancestry.
I think we each have to step away from having to have things all figured out. We have resurrection power within us.
Why are we trying to do things in our own strength? It's like choosing to go across country in a go-cart when there is a Jaquar parked in the driveway.
So I close with Hillman's challenge:
Ask God what He wants to achieve through your life today. And consider yourself dead already to the consequences of what that might mean for you.
They have a real heart to bring the Lord to the marketplace. Too often we compartmentalize our life keeping our faith separate from our work. I work for a ministry so it isn't an issue there, but I also sell Mary Kay. I need balance in my life so that I don't go running after goals that aren't God's best for me.
Yesterday's devotion ended with the following written by Os Hillman:
"Today we find many Christian workplace believers living a status quo relationship with God that is more characterized as "business as usual" than a life demonstrating God's power. Our focus is often more concerned with improving our standard of living than improving the Kingdom of God through our circle of influence. While this takes place, millions upon millions die without the saving grace of Christ. Many other Christians die never experiencing the freedom in Christ that His blood paid for. God has called each of us to live for a cause greater than ourselves - a life that is dependent on His grace and power to achieve things we never thought possible through our lives. This is His plan for your life. The apostle Paul prayed that He might experience the power of the resurrection in his life. This power is available to you and me to live for a cause greater than ourselves. Ask God what He wants to achieve through your life today. And consider yourself dead already to the consequences of what that might mean for you.
All day long those last two sentences played in my head. I even made a small poster to keep it in front of me.
Ray say it and said, he overheard someone on the trip from the airport say, " If God told you to do it, why question it? If God did not tell you to do it, then why do it?"
Ever since we began planning the trip to Ireland, I have felt led by the Lord. We have wanted to go for 30 years. But I knew in my "knower" this was the time. I even feel it is not just for ourselves that we are going. I feel as if we are going to deposit something in the lives of people that I do not even know today. I know we won't come back the same either. There will be a paradigm shift- perhaps most markedly for Ray as he returns to the roots of his ancestry.
I think we each have to step away from having to have things all figured out. We have resurrection power within us.
Why are we trying to do things in our own strength? It's like choosing to go across country in a go-cart when there is a Jaquar parked in the driveway.
So I close with Hillman's challenge:
Ask God what He wants to achieve through your life today. And consider yourself dead already to the consequences of what that might mean for you.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
The Beauty of Simplicity
Life doesn't have to be complicated. The simpler, the more peace. Slow down and enjoy. Your day can be full, but enjoy the task you are doing and the person you are with. Enjoy the person God created when He created you.
Take a deep breath and enjoy the beauty of simplicity.
Take a deep breath and enjoy the beauty of simplicity.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Shake Yourself Loose
There comes a time in life when you have to lay down everything that is holding you back and go for it.
Hebrews 12:1 says, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily hinders our progress. And let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us." NLT
Our races and weights may be different, but neither of us can do what God has set before us unless we lay down all of the weights that we have picked up over the years.
I can rattle off a dozen reasons why I couldn't be expected to a winner in the race of line. They could be as trivial as my weight or age or as devastating as being the victim of a violent crime. But those are just events. That is not who I am. I am finding my true identity in who God says I am.
I will praise thee; for I am fearfully [and] wonderfully made: marvellous [are] thy works; and [that] my soul knoweth right well. Ps. 139:14
We have fun with the following song at our church. Listen to a couple of times until you really get it. Then really, I mean seriously, just do it!
Shake yourself loose and go get what is yours and give God all of the glory.
Hebrews 12:1 says, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily hinders our progress. And let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us." NLT
Our races and weights may be different, but neither of us can do what God has set before us unless we lay down all of the weights that we have picked up over the years.
I can rattle off a dozen reasons why I couldn't be expected to a winner in the race of line. They could be as trivial as my weight or age or as devastating as being the victim of a violent crime. But those are just events. That is not who I am. I am finding my true identity in who God says I am.
I will praise thee; for I am fearfully [and] wonderfully made: marvellous [are] thy works; and [that] my soul knoweth right well. Ps. 139:14
We have fun with the following song at our church. Listen to a couple of times until you really get it. Then really, I mean seriously, just do it!
Shake yourself loose and go get what is yours and give God all of the glory.
Don't Let Anyone Steal Your Dreams
I was once in a dreadful relationship. One day I went to work and returned from to work to find that he and his friends had cleaned out our attic. Everything that he didn't think was absolutely essential had been hauled away. That included the clothes I brought my babies home from the hospital in, old letters and pictures. Minutiae like the report that I was having twins. Things important only to me.
Something inside of me died that day when he said, "You don't need memories. You have me."
When I married Ray the following year, I began to dream again. One of our dreams from the beginning has been to go to Ireland together. This year it is finally happening. I wonder how much sooner it would have happened if during the journey of my life, I did not allow others to steal my dreams.
I heard the story of the man who sold hotdogs today. I just have to share it with you. I do not know the original author.
THE MAN WHO SOLD HOT DOGS
Many years ago there was a man who lived by the side of the road and sold HOT DOGS.
He was hard of hearing so he had no radio.
He had trouble with his eyes so he read no newspaper.
But he sold HOT DOGS
He put up signs on the highway telling how good they were.
He stood on the side of the road and cried: "BUY A HOT DOG, MISTER ?"
And people bought, because he was so enthusiastic.
He increased his meat and bun orders.
He bought a bigger stove to take care of his growing trade.
He was so happy selling Hot Dogs, and people enjoyed doing business with him.
One day his son came home from college to help him out.
And something happened.
His son said, "Father, haven’t you been listening to the radio.? Haven’t you been reading the newspaper.?
The situation in Europe is terrible. The Domestic situation is worse."
Whereupon the father thought, "Well, my son’s been to college, he reads the newspaper, he listens to the radio, and he ought to know."
So the father cut down on his meat and bun orders, he took down all his advertising signs, and no longer bothered to stand on the highway to sell his hot dogs.
And his HOT DOG sales fell, ALMOST OVERNIGHT.
"You’re right, son," the father said to the boy.
"WE CERTAINLY ARE IN THE MIDDLE OF A GREAT DEPRESSION."
Who are you listening to? Why?
The Word I hear is:
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jer 29:11
Has someone taken away your dream? Take it back! Don't have a dream? Get one!
In the movie the Ghost Busters, you could identify them by the clothes they wore and their outrageous car.
Dream Busters are not nearly as recognizable. They could be your friend, your boss, a relative or even someone who loves you. They have had their dreams squashed and never had the courage or stamina to take back what the enemy stole.
Don't share your dreams with negative people. Share them with those who have dreams also.
Have an accountability partner or your dreams will be just that-a dream.
I think there is power in intercessors as well who are willing to pray for you. A dream needs balance.
Too often I have had dreams and gotten off track by neglecting the necessary. Can't tell you how many craft shows I did when I was young, totally neglecting kids and housework. God does things decently and in order.
Turn off the news and do some dreaming today.
Something inside of me died that day when he said, "You don't need memories. You have me."
When I married Ray the following year, I began to dream again. One of our dreams from the beginning has been to go to Ireland together. This year it is finally happening. I wonder how much sooner it would have happened if during the journey of my life, I did not allow others to steal my dreams.
I heard the story of the man who sold hotdogs today. I just have to share it with you. I do not know the original author.
THE MAN WHO SOLD HOT DOGS
Many years ago there was a man who lived by the side of the road and sold HOT DOGS.
He was hard of hearing so he had no radio.
He had trouble with his eyes so he read no newspaper.
But he sold HOT DOGS
He put up signs on the highway telling how good they were.
He stood on the side of the road and cried: "BUY A HOT DOG, MISTER ?"
And people bought, because he was so enthusiastic.
He increased his meat and bun orders.
He bought a bigger stove to take care of his growing trade.
He was so happy selling Hot Dogs, and people enjoyed doing business with him.
One day his son came home from college to help him out.
And something happened.
His son said, "Father, haven’t you been listening to the radio.? Haven’t you been reading the newspaper.?
The situation in Europe is terrible. The Domestic situation is worse."
Whereupon the father thought, "Well, my son’s been to college, he reads the newspaper, he listens to the radio, and he ought to know."
So the father cut down on his meat and bun orders, he took down all his advertising signs, and no longer bothered to stand on the highway to sell his hot dogs.
And his HOT DOG sales fell, ALMOST OVERNIGHT.
"You’re right, son," the father said to the boy.
"WE CERTAINLY ARE IN THE MIDDLE OF A GREAT DEPRESSION."
Who are you listening to? Why?
The Word I hear is:
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jer 29:11
Has someone taken away your dream? Take it back! Don't have a dream? Get one!
In the movie the Ghost Busters, you could identify them by the clothes they wore and their outrageous car.
Dream Busters are not nearly as recognizable. They could be your friend, your boss, a relative or even someone who loves you. They have had their dreams squashed and never had the courage or stamina to take back what the enemy stole.
Don't share your dreams with negative people. Share them with those who have dreams also.
Have an accountability partner or your dreams will be just that-a dream.
I think there is power in intercessors as well who are willing to pray for you. A dream needs balance.
Too often I have had dreams and gotten off track by neglecting the necessary. Can't tell you how many craft shows I did when I was young, totally neglecting kids and housework. God does things decently and in order.
Turn off the news and do some dreaming today.
The Peace of Snow
I had listened to a CD of healing scriptures all night Saturday and woke up Sunday morning feeling scrubbed clean. I still wasn't feeling physically strong so the guys went on to church without me.
I have an old recliner that in pitiful shape, but I love it because it is short. Most chairs extend beyond the bend of my knee as I am only 5'1". This one is designed for a shorty like me. It swivels and I had my back to the window for good reading light. About eleven, I decided to go take a nap and I swiveled back around. I was astounded. It was snowing. It wasn't flurries either. It was coming down like packing peanuts. I was absolutely mesmerized.
They had predicted snow, but we hear that a couple of times each winter and it usually stops at Atlanta or it comes as flurries that melt as soon as it hits the ground.
I went outside and saw it beginning to build. I was so excited. I fixed myself a hot cup of tea, got back in my recliner and just watched it fall. It fell for a couple of hours.
There is something calming and peaceful about watching snow fall.
Yes, I have lived where it snows. I know the mess and the challenges, but this blissful afternoon of just watching it cover my corner of the earth with its clean blanket of white nourished my soul.
I am reminded of when Jonathan first sang The Rose. It says, "Just remember that in the winter, far beneath the bitter snow lies the seed, that with the suns love in the spring becomes the rose."
My snow wasn't bitter, but there are many things in my life that I hope for that are yet unseen. Still just as surely as Spring will come, they too will come in His time.
I have an old recliner that in pitiful shape, but I love it because it is short. Most chairs extend beyond the bend of my knee as I am only 5'1". This one is designed for a shorty like me. It swivels and I had my back to the window for good reading light. About eleven, I decided to go take a nap and I swiveled back around. I was astounded. It was snowing. It wasn't flurries either. It was coming down like packing peanuts. I was absolutely mesmerized.
They had predicted snow, but we hear that a couple of times each winter and it usually stops at Atlanta or it comes as flurries that melt as soon as it hits the ground.
I went outside and saw it beginning to build. I was so excited. I fixed myself a hot cup of tea, got back in my recliner and just watched it fall. It fell for a couple of hours.
There is something calming and peaceful about watching snow fall.
Yes, I have lived where it snows. I know the mess and the challenges, but this blissful afternoon of just watching it cover my corner of the earth with its clean blanket of white nourished my soul.
I am reminded of when Jonathan first sang The Rose. It says, "Just remember that in the winter, far beneath the bitter snow lies the seed, that with the suns love in the spring becomes the rose."
My snow wasn't bitter, but there are many things in my life that I hope for that are yet unseen. Still just as surely as Spring will come, they too will come in His time.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Reach for the Stars
"When you reach for the stars you may not quite get one, but you won't come up with a handful of mud either." Leo Burnett
Planning for our trip to Ireland is a huge reach for the stars for us. I feel with all of my heart that it is going to a trip of a lifetime. I have such expectancy.
Because Ray found his way around South Africa and Lesotho with no problems, I have every confidence in planning a road trip with him through Ireland.
We are returning to the land of his roots and plan to visit the town his family came from, Dungarvin near Waterford. We want a simple laid back vacation, a people's holiday, if you will.
I am sure half the fun will be in the planning.
I encourage you to reach for the stars as well. When God deposits something in your heart, protect it and when times are hard, remember what He told you. Not what the circumstances tell you, but His promises to you.
Planning for our trip to Ireland is a huge reach for the stars for us. I feel with all of my heart that it is going to a trip of a lifetime. I have such expectancy.
Because Ray found his way around South Africa and Lesotho with no problems, I have every confidence in planning a road trip with him through Ireland.
We are returning to the land of his roots and plan to visit the town his family came from, Dungarvin near Waterford. We want a simple laid back vacation, a people's holiday, if you will.
I am sure half the fun will be in the planning.
I encourage you to reach for the stars as well. When God deposits something in your heart, protect it and when times are hard, remember what He told you. Not what the circumstances tell you, but His promises to you.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
We Need Each Other
Sometimes having extra people in your home complicates your life. It should not be so, because we are to be given to hospitality. If that hospitality comes out of the heart of God, it should be an act of love, not a fulfillment of a need. Resentment can come in if it is just filling someone's need.
But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.
And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. Use hospitality one to another without grudging. 1 Peter 4:7-9
Without grudging simply means without murmuring complaining. The Lord may have sent this person as a gift to you. He may expect you to invite the unlovely and entertain him as if he were the Lord himself.
Let brotherly love continue. Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; [and] them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.
Hebrews 13:1-3
We need each other. Living simply may be a gift, but it must include the body. We are all a part of God's body. We need each other to be who He saw before the foundations of the world. You may be just the one to provide that missing piece in someone's life. You may have just the encouraging word they need to hear, the hug they need to feel, the meal they need to taste to see that the Lord is good.
But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.
And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. Use hospitality one to another without grudging. 1 Peter 4:7-9
Without grudging simply means without murmuring complaining. The Lord may have sent this person as a gift to you. He may expect you to invite the unlovely and entertain him as if he were the Lord himself.
Let brotherly love continue. Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; [and] them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.
Hebrews 13:1-3
We need each other. Living simply may be a gift, but it must include the body. We are all a part of God's body. We need each other to be who He saw before the foundations of the world. You may be just the one to provide that missing piece in someone's life. You may have just the encouraging word they need to hear, the hug they need to feel, the meal they need to taste to see that the Lord is good.
Monday, February 23, 2009
The Loving Gathering Tea
Once a year minimum I have a customer appreciation tea for all of my Mary Kay customers. I have told you that I began selling Mary Kay because I had a lot of self-hatred and needed the discipline of taking care of myself.
Similarly, it is easy for me to withdraw when I am wounded or hurt. So setting aside a time when I know I will have guests regardless of what is going on inside of me forces me to totally rely on "Christ in me, the hope of glory."
Last Saturday was just such an afternoon. With Jonathan in the house, old hurts are surfacing and I am doing my best to deal with them. Last week my friend and boss, Mary Pat, was teaching Bitterness. I had just been defiled by one of Jon's explosions. She thought it would be good for me to sit in the class again and it was. It showed me how much self-bitterness I still had because I was not a good mom. Sure I could use the excuse that I was bipolar and later diagnosed as multiple personality disorder. However, as devastating as the roller-coaster emotions were for me personally, they were multiplied for my children who because they were children automatically assumed it was their fault. That's a lot of baggage.
At the close of the teaching they played a beautiful song by Terri Lois Gregory. I immediately ordered and it arrived in time for the tea. That was God's favor, because I did not order it until Tuesday. I had to mail a check to Kansas and she sent it immediately back to me. It arrived two hours before the tea.
In it she explained that within 18 months time she had lost her job, her farm, her home, her mother to leukemia, an attorney violated her trust and a close friend stole a large amount of money from her. WOW! And I thought I had problems!
The song begins, "Father, remove this bitterness from me and heal my broken spirit..."
What a powerful beginning to healing. She goes on to share a quote from a book she was reading.
"Questions are allowed in the Kingdom, but lack of answers must not interrupt our heart-communion with God." Please re-read that:
"Questions are allowed in the Kingdom, but lack of answers must not interrupt our heart-communion with God."
She continues: If we demand answers from God, then we are walking in the spirit of offense. Hosea 6:3 says, "Then shall we know, [if] we follow on to know the LORD: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter [and] former rain unto the earth.."
Follow after is radaph. It is a verb. It requires action.
1) to be behind, follow after, pursue, persecute, run after
a) (Qal)
1) to pursue, put to flight, chase, dog, attend closely upon
2) to persecute, harass (fig)
3) to follow after, aim to secure (fig)
4) to run after (a bribe) (fig)
b) (Niphal)
1) to be pursued
2) one pursued (participle)
c) (Piel) to pursue ardently, aim eagerly to secure, pursue
d) (Pual) to be pursued, be chased away
e) (Hiphil) to pursue, chase
We are to passionately pursue God whether we understand or not. She says we are to run after Him in in the face of potential offense.
How I struggle to protect myself from getting hurt again. When I protect myself, He cannot.
Confirming the souls of the disciples, [and] exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. Acts 14:22
Why should I act surprised when there is tribulation? We were told about it beforehand. Have I become so disconnected from the Word that I forget what it says and turn to emotions instead?
She gives me one final quote: "Persistently pursue fellowship with God even when your uncertainty feels deep and endless, and no answers have materialized. The suffering will last but a moment in God's grand plan for your life. Be thankful for the opportunity to persevere. And be assured - better times are on the way."
How I praise God for the wisdom to slow down, have tea and laughter and share my heart with friends. Walls are tumbling down.
Similarly, it is easy for me to withdraw when I am wounded or hurt. So setting aside a time when I know I will have guests regardless of what is going on inside of me forces me to totally rely on "Christ in me, the hope of glory."
Last Saturday was just such an afternoon. With Jonathan in the house, old hurts are surfacing and I am doing my best to deal with them. Last week my friend and boss, Mary Pat, was teaching Bitterness. I had just been defiled by one of Jon's explosions. She thought it would be good for me to sit in the class again and it was. It showed me how much self-bitterness I still had because I was not a good mom. Sure I could use the excuse that I was bipolar and later diagnosed as multiple personality disorder. However, as devastating as the roller-coaster emotions were for me personally, they were multiplied for my children who because they were children automatically assumed it was their fault. That's a lot of baggage.
At the close of the teaching they played a beautiful song by Terri Lois Gregory. I immediately ordered and it arrived in time for the tea. That was God's favor, because I did not order it until Tuesday. I had to mail a check to Kansas and she sent it immediately back to me. It arrived two hours before the tea.
In it she explained that within 18 months time she had lost her job, her farm, her home, her mother to leukemia, an attorney violated her trust and a close friend stole a large amount of money from her. WOW! And I thought I had problems!
The song begins, "Father, remove this bitterness from me and heal my broken spirit..."
What a powerful beginning to healing. She goes on to share a quote from a book she was reading.
"Questions are allowed in the Kingdom, but lack of answers must not interrupt our heart-communion with God." Please re-read that:
"Questions are allowed in the Kingdom, but lack of answers must not interrupt our heart-communion with God."
She continues: If we demand answers from God, then we are walking in the spirit of offense. Hosea 6:3 says, "Then shall we know, [if] we follow on to know the LORD: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter [and] former rain unto the earth.."
Follow after is radaph. It is a verb. It requires action.
1) to be behind, follow after, pursue, persecute, run after
a) (Qal)
1) to pursue, put to flight, chase, dog, attend closely upon
2) to persecute, harass (fig)
3) to follow after, aim to secure (fig)
4) to run after (a bribe) (fig)
b) (Niphal)
1) to be pursued
2) one pursued (participle)
c) (Piel) to pursue ardently, aim eagerly to secure, pursue
d) (Pual) to be pursued, be chased away
e) (Hiphil) to pursue, chase
We are to passionately pursue God whether we understand or not. She says we are to run after Him in in the face of potential offense.
How I struggle to protect myself from getting hurt again. When I protect myself, He cannot.
Confirming the souls of the disciples, [and] exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. Acts 14:22
Why should I act surprised when there is tribulation? We were told about it beforehand. Have I become so disconnected from the Word that I forget what it says and turn to emotions instead?
She gives me one final quote: "Persistently pursue fellowship with God even when your uncertainty feels deep and endless, and no answers have materialized. The suffering will last but a moment in God's grand plan for your life. Be thankful for the opportunity to persevere. And be assured - better times are on the way."
How I praise God for the wisdom to slow down, have tea and laughter and share my heart with friends. Walls are tumbling down.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Beauty Tips
I sell Mary Kay. I delight in doing one on one facials and helping the other woman see herself as God saw her before the foundations of the world.
Yes, I do a customized color consultation and teach her how to best take care of her skin. However, it is very important to me that the inside changes begin during this one on one time. I want to give her hope for her future. I want to encourage her and love on her, too.
Audrey Hepburn was once asked for her beauty tips. This is what she recommended:
For attractive lips, speak words of kindness. For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people. For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry. For beautiful hair, let a child run his/her fingers through it once a day. For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone. People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed; never throw out anyone. Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of each of your arms. As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands; one for helping yourself, and the other for helping others.
Audrey Hepburn - Moon River - These bloopers are hilarious
So many years are wasted chasing windmills when all we need to do is to pull out what He has already deposited.
[Even] the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what [is] the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: Col 1:26-27
Yes, I do a customized color consultation and teach her how to best take care of her skin. However, it is very important to me that the inside changes begin during this one on one time. I want to give her hope for her future. I want to encourage her and love on her, too.
Audrey Hepburn was once asked for her beauty tips. This is what she recommended:
For attractive lips, speak words of kindness. For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people. For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry. For beautiful hair, let a child run his/her fingers through it once a day. For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone. People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed; never throw out anyone. Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of each of your arms. As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands; one for helping yourself, and the other for helping others.
Audrey Hepburn - Moon River - These bloopers are hilarious
So many years are wasted chasing windmills when all we need to do is to pull out what He has already deposited.
[Even] the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what [is] the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: Col 1:26-27
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Is Your Attitude Showing?
Read this on a website yesterday.
There is little difference in people, but that little difference makes a big difference. The little difference is ATTITUDE. The big difference is whether it is positive or negative.
There is little difference in people, but that little difference makes a big difference. The little difference is ATTITUDE. The big difference is whether it is positive or negative.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
My Twins' Birthday
February 13th is the birthday of my twin daughters, Carrin and Margie.
At the end of last year I got the flu so severely that it caused my heart to begin to go into congestive failure. This is something I was healed of years ago. However, it frightened me and I got rather maudlin. What could I leave behind for my kids?
Last summer my mom found an old crystal necklace that her Aunt Livvy gave me when I graduated from high school in 1963. It was broken but still had many crystals. I thought it would be special to make necklaces for the twins from it somehow even though I had never made one before.
Then in the fall, Mary Pat gave me a crystal necklace from her mom. Hers were all the same size and smaller. I thought that they would be perfect spacers. Last weekend Ray went to Hobby Lobby to pick up the thread and tools and met a really nice lady named Vicki who guided him through the process.
When he came home he was pumped. He said just tell me what you want.
The twins are not identical. So I wanted them similar, but different. So I laid out the design and without hesitation, he began adding the clasp, crimping the end the way Vicki showed him and stringing. He dropped the first necklace THREE times, but just got down on his knees, regathered the beads and calmly began again. There was much rejoicing when he finished. I fell in love all over again.
My hero!
Then he began on the next one. After that was completed, he made earrings. He didn't like the first pair. So he did it again plus there were enough beads left to make me a pair.
I sent a picture of the necklaces to my sister, Karen, and told her my congestive heart failure story and her response was to keep finding things you need to finish first. Besides there's no hurry anyway.
So Happy Birthday, Carrin and Margie!
I am going to find another memory to share with another. Your gift made me a rich woman.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
To All My February Birthday Girlfriends
Darlena Fields, Carrin Meadows, Margie Hill, Marcia Fisher, Patsy Montes, Eleanor Carter, Theresa Southwick and Judy Waterman
Of course, Ray's is the 16th and that's the kind of old woman he wants me to grow up to be. So here is a glimpse of his future with me.
Of course, Ray's is the 16th and that's the kind of old woman he wants me to grow up to be. So here is a glimpse of his future with me.
Definition of Insanity
The definition of insanity is to keep doing the same thing and expect a different result.
The other trap is to believe that our future depends on others. If only they.....If this hadn't happened... But what about those who do make it anyway?
I believe it is because of what you believe about any given situation.
If I believe I can't be healed, I can't. If I believe I can't lose weight, I won't. If I believe I will always struggle to make ends meet, I will.
I received a dynamite newsletter today from a Mary Kay Director, Allison LaMar. In it she says:
To truly reposition ourselves, we must develop a working knowledge of two well known facts:
1. Over time, one will accept as truth whatever we tell ourselves over and over again. You are not ever defeated until you accept defeat.
2. What we allow ourselves to think about WILL manifest itself as a reality in our world.
These two facts alone can sound extremely abstract and almost beside the point. However, you must understand that they are, in fact, the lifeline to your success in repositioning yourself. Here’s why: You will never perform beyond the level that you actually believe is possible for yourself. And, your thoughts drive your words, which drive your actions, which drive your results. Everything that you have created as your current reality began in your mind as a thought. So, before we can reposition YOU, we must reposition your thoughts.
As you embark on this revolution, you will need to be armed for battle. The following questions will become the most powerful weapon in your arsenal:
What about my current reality am I no longer willing to accept?"
This video best says it all. To begin again, we must begin again. It's a forward motion. What a difference one step at a time can make.
Watch this and see what I mean:
Today dare to take some baby steps forward.
The other trap is to believe that our future depends on others. If only they.....If this hadn't happened... But what about those who do make it anyway?
I believe it is because of what you believe about any given situation.
If I believe I can't be healed, I can't. If I believe I can't lose weight, I won't. If I believe I will always struggle to make ends meet, I will.
I received a dynamite newsletter today from a Mary Kay Director, Allison LaMar. In it she says:
To truly reposition ourselves, we must develop a working knowledge of two well known facts:
1. Over time, one will accept as truth whatever we tell ourselves over and over again. You are not ever defeated until you accept defeat.
2. What we allow ourselves to think about WILL manifest itself as a reality in our world.
These two facts alone can sound extremely abstract and almost beside the point. However, you must understand that they are, in fact, the lifeline to your success in repositioning yourself. Here’s why: You will never perform beyond the level that you actually believe is possible for yourself. And, your thoughts drive your words, which drive your actions, which drive your results. Everything that you have created as your current reality began in your mind as a thought. So, before we can reposition YOU, we must reposition your thoughts.
As you embark on this revolution, you will need to be armed for battle. The following questions will become the most powerful weapon in your arsenal:
What about my current reality am I no longer willing to accept?"
This video best says it all. To begin again, we must begin again. It's a forward motion. What a difference one step at a time can make.
Watch this and see what I mean:
Today dare to take some baby steps forward.
Trying to Figure Out Why
Sometimes we get bogged down trying to figure things out instead of pushing through to the other side. It is more than can't see the forest for the trees. My friend, Tim, says it is like trying to figure out things using the wrong equation.
Like if it takes three yards a fabric to make an elephant a vest, how far can a chicken with a wooden leg kick a football?
We take all these variables that don't even matter or aren't connected to figure out our problems. Meanwhile God is waiting, watching, to see if we let go of all the tangled details and trust Him.
Do we really have to figure it all out or can we just take the step set before us and then the next one?
Life is a faith walk.
Take time today for a stroll with the Lord.
Like if it takes three yards a fabric to make an elephant a vest, how far can a chicken with a wooden leg kick a football?
We take all these variables that don't even matter or aren't connected to figure out our problems. Meanwhile God is waiting, watching, to see if we let go of all the tangled details and trust Him.
Do we really have to figure it all out or can we just take the step set before us and then the next one?
Life is a faith walk.
Take time today for a stroll with the Lord.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
A Son Returns Home
Ray, Mike and I work at a ministry called Be In Health. www.beinhealth.com
It offers a week long program called For My Life. When I went through the program for the first time seven years ago, I felt as if I had been through a semester of college in one week.
This past week our oldest son, Jonathan, went through the program which is 50 hours of intense teaching and ministry to bring healing to the spirit, soul, and body. Pastor Henry Wright teaches that often the mind needs to be renewed before lasting healing can take place. The scripturally based principles taught in For My Life™ encourages renewal of your mind with the Word of God.
For My Life™ was birthed in part out of Pastor Henry’s frustration that only 5% of those prayed for in healing lines received healing. He discovered that the key for realizing more healing in the body of Christ was applying the scriptural principle of sanctification. One of his favorite sayings is, "God’s perfect will is not to heal you but that you do not get sick".
So this week we saw Jonathan go from a "show me" attitude to "I want more." With tears welling in his eyes, he said, "I feel like I am home."
We have a close community and he saw how people were involved with others' lives and reached out in love. In spite of his false bravado, he felt totally accepted.
Many diseases are the result of separation between God, yourself, and others. The course helps you identify and deal the root causes behind these separations. These issues can include fear, stress, bitterness, guilt, self-hatred, accusation, and rejection.
Because of this course, Jonathan was able to apply the principles of God to his life in such a way that he can find healing of spirit, soul, and body as he continues to walk out what he has learned.
On Sunday he decided he wanted to participate in the foot washing done by the pastors. Like the rest of us, he has a ways to go in his journey, but I sincerely believe he is headed in the right direction.
He is planning on finding a job in the area and staying here. When he gets established, he will bring his wife up here as well. Please keep them both in your prayers.
Funny how God seems to always bring things full circle even if we don't notice the bend in the road.
It offers a week long program called For My Life. When I went through the program for the first time seven years ago, I felt as if I had been through a semester of college in one week.
This past week our oldest son, Jonathan, went through the program which is 50 hours of intense teaching and ministry to bring healing to the spirit, soul, and body. Pastor Henry Wright teaches that often the mind needs to be renewed before lasting healing can take place. The scripturally based principles taught in For My Life™ encourages renewal of your mind with the Word of God.
For My Life™ was birthed in part out of Pastor Henry’s frustration that only 5% of those prayed for in healing lines received healing. He discovered that the key for realizing more healing in the body of Christ was applying the scriptural principle of sanctification. One of his favorite sayings is, "God’s perfect will is not to heal you but that you do not get sick".
So this week we saw Jonathan go from a "show me" attitude to "I want more." With tears welling in his eyes, he said, "I feel like I am home."
We have a close community and he saw how people were involved with others' lives and reached out in love. In spite of his false bravado, he felt totally accepted.
Many diseases are the result of separation between God, yourself, and others. The course helps you identify and deal the root causes behind these separations. These issues can include fear, stress, bitterness, guilt, self-hatred, accusation, and rejection.
Because of this course, Jonathan was able to apply the principles of God to his life in such a way that he can find healing of spirit, soul, and body as he continues to walk out what he has learned.
On Sunday he decided he wanted to participate in the foot washing done by the pastors. Like the rest of us, he has a ways to go in his journey, but I sincerely believe he is headed in the right direction.
He is planning on finding a job in the area and staying here. When he gets established, he will bring his wife up here as well. Please keep them both in your prayers.
Funny how God seems to always bring things full circle even if we don't notice the bend in the road.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Blogs Begetting Blogs
It was a blogger who encouraged me to begin blogging. Another stepped up to the plate with similar encouragement.
Now my son, Michael, has begun a blog called Iron Man.
My oldest son, Jonathan, has been staying with us this week and going through the program that we have at the ministry I work for. (See www.beinhealth.com/programs) Already we are seeing beautifu changes and I would not be surprised at all if next week, he had his own blog as well.
I can remember over 50 years sitting on my grandmother's front porch after supper and just listening and talking. It was a form of family and community communication.
Today I also have a large front porch with a swing, but there is far too little time spent on it. My family and friends are from China to Africa. Yet I believe deep inside each of us is both a need to be heard and share our heart.
A pastor once told me that if you truly listen to someone, truly listen, you allow those hidden things to bubble up and bring hope. When thoughts go unexpressed, they can torment, stagnate or become bigger than life.
Blogging allows one an opportunity to share their thoughts and even knowledge or skills and those things hidden are revealed. You find out that the monster under the bed was just a dust bunny when you expose it.
I love writing. I always have. Some bloggers have taken individual blogs and created a book. I don't know that will happen here, but isn't that what we do with our lives?
Each day is a new page. What kind of book is your life? Mystery? Suspense? Romance novel? Or a How-To Book?
Write ON!
Now my son, Michael, has begun a blog called Iron Man.
My oldest son, Jonathan, has been staying with us this week and going through the program that we have at the ministry I work for. (See www.beinhealth.com/programs) Already we are seeing beautifu changes and I would not be surprised at all if next week, he had his own blog as well.
I can remember over 50 years sitting on my grandmother's front porch after supper and just listening and talking. It was a form of family and community communication.
Today I also have a large front porch with a swing, but there is far too little time spent on it. My family and friends are from China to Africa. Yet I believe deep inside each of us is both a need to be heard and share our heart.
A pastor once told me that if you truly listen to someone, truly listen, you allow those hidden things to bubble up and bring hope. When thoughts go unexpressed, they can torment, stagnate or become bigger than life.
Blogging allows one an opportunity to share their thoughts and even knowledge or skills and those things hidden are revealed. You find out that the monster under the bed was just a dust bunny when you expose it.
I love writing. I always have. Some bloggers have taken individual blogs and created a book. I don't know that will happen here, but isn't that what we do with our lives?
Each day is a new page. What kind of book is your life? Mystery? Suspense? Romance novel? Or a How-To Book?
Write ON!
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Are You Building with Your Words?
Our words can build people up or tear them down. In fact, silence can destroy others as well. Christ in us, the hope of glory means that we have the gift to be able to speak life into people today. Why not see how many people you can touch with words of life today?
Not only will it change them, it will change you as well.
Do it on purpose.
Not only will it change them, it will change you as well.
Do it on purpose.
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