I'm not sure what is going on what Amazon in Lexington, KY but they have gotten ahold of our name and address and are shipping packages - unordered - to us. When the first package arrived yesterday, I chatted online with Amazon and gave them the order number that was inside the box. They had customer service call me. I again gave the order number. She said she couldn't find the order in the system "so just keep it, we have no way to track it." I didn't like that idea for it clearly showed someone had been charged nearly $300 for these items. So, I googled the company where it came from and sent them an email - which goes through Amazon. I have not yet gotten a response.
This morning when I opened the front door - I found 4 more boxes from Amazon, Lexington, KY, sitting on our porch. I opened each one. Each was a different style, but same item as the others in the first box. And there is no information, order number or anything within the box as had been in the first one. These were shipped to us without any information at all. And this time, no company name on the box - just from Amazon, Lexington, KY.
So, as before, I plan to chat with Amazon and see if I can't clear this up. I find it funny in that I have several of these items because I like them. Not anywhere this expensive though. It is interesting that 4 identical items arrived in the first box, and the next four boxes contained only one - and much different. I know I have you curious now as to what it is, but if Amazon insists that I keep them for no tracking information, my kids may get them for Christmas gifts! LOL Got to keep them guessing!
As I have sat here and thought about it, I'm asking God what is this all about. Is it something that He is trying to tell me? I can take it many different ways; different scenarios. Hmmmm.... stay tuned on this one. Depending on what Amazon tells me today - or anything I receive from them prior to Christmas on returning or keeping the items - will keep you updated. I'm trying to keep an open mind as to what this is all about.
So what has surprised you lately that you weren't expecting? Is it a promotion? Loss of employment? Sickness? A special gift you received - or were able to purchase for someone that you didn't think you could? Did you receive an anonymous gift from Amazon? What is God showing you in this - is He just blessing you in some way?
Blessings!
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Shopping?
Wow - it isn't even December yet and I'm already shopping a lot! So glad I'm not working so that I can go in the day time when others are at work. It sure does make a difference! I'm hoping to finish shopping by the 2nd week of December so that I can focus on my baking and canning.
Finished up two of the grandchildren yesterday and got a good start on a couple others. No, I don't buy a lot of gifts anymore - just a couple per grandchild now. I try to focus on my children and their spouses - they do without all year to provide for their children - now I want to bless them. Just being a 'mom'. Which reminds me of a true story...
One Christmas, many years ago, I was struggling with strept throat. I didn't know it was more than a sore throat so I continued to bake, to can, to shop - just like every year. At that time, I think we had only 3 grandchildren. Anyway, I wanted everyone to come to "grandma's house" for Christmas morning first thing - just like when I was growing up and everyone came to my mom's house. (I'm big on traditions.) After we married, we always got the children together around 6AM on Christmas morning. This Christmas was no exception to that. I would cook a big breakfast and after opening gifts, we would all eat together, then they were free to go wherever they wanted for the rest of the day. I would buy so many gifts - sometimes buying silly things to ensure that everyone had the same number of gifts. Exactly. Didn't matter how much I spent (which was never a whole lot), but everyone got the same number of gifts. That year I remember it was 27 gifts apiece. Of course we had to open each one - one person at a time - so it took us a little while to get through all the gifts. I loved watching it all - but being sick, I could only sit in my chair and watch.
After the gifts were open and everyone went in to eat, I continued to sit in my chair when God spoke to me. Yes, I know without a doubt it was Him. "You are selfish." What? Me selfish? How can you say I'm selfish? Look at all these gifts I bought and all these things I made - how can you say I'm selfish? "You are selfish."
As I sat there and thought about it, God revealed to me why He said I was selfish. I wasn't selfish with material things. I was being selfish in wanting my children and grandchildren with ME first thing on Christmas morning. The grandchildren were not even opening their gifts at home - they were being awaken to come to grandma's house first. They would then either go to their 'other grandparent's house' or home to open their own gifts. As God revealed all this to me, I realized He was right. I was being selfish.
I called my children over and told them I was sorry, that God had revealed that I was being selfish. Of course they immediately said 'you are not!' - so I had to explain. I told them from then on, they were to have their Christmas at home first, and then stop by whenever they wanted to later Christmas day. It was hard for me to tell them that, for I love being with them all and seeing all their excitement.
But Christmas is not about me. It is about Jesus, his birth celebrated on Christmas day. That is what we are to be celebrating - not giving gifts to each other. But, of course, I still do that, just not in that quanity. It isn't the number of gifts, it is being with family that you love. (and perhaps some you don't!)
This year, think about what you do Christmas morning. We start ours off with just Tom and I. We open our stockings from Santa (yes, I still believe in Santa Claus) then gifts from each other. Tom brings my coffee before we even start (is he trained or what!) I fix lunch now - and whoever stops by around that time opens their gifts and eat when they want to. Then later in the day we head out to our daughter's for a few hours. They insisted on starting their own tradition of everyone going to see them. Kind of like I was doing first thing, I think, but it is what they wanted. It's not the same as by then it is crazy and everyone opens their gifts at the same time and I miss getting to see their faces seeing what I searched so diligently for them. But, each family has started their own traditions. And I have to let go.
Think about what you would like to change from Christmas past, then make that change. Take time to celebrate Jesus and remind your children and grandchildren the reason for the celebration. It isn't just about gifts, it is about loving each other too. What is your tradition?
Blessings!
Finished up two of the grandchildren yesterday and got a good start on a couple others. No, I don't buy a lot of gifts anymore - just a couple per grandchild now. I try to focus on my children and their spouses - they do without all year to provide for their children - now I want to bless them. Just being a 'mom'. Which reminds me of a true story...
One Christmas, many years ago, I was struggling with strept throat. I didn't know it was more than a sore throat so I continued to bake, to can, to shop - just like every year. At that time, I think we had only 3 grandchildren. Anyway, I wanted everyone to come to "grandma's house" for Christmas morning first thing - just like when I was growing up and everyone came to my mom's house. (I'm big on traditions.) After we married, we always got the children together around 6AM on Christmas morning. This Christmas was no exception to that. I would cook a big breakfast and after opening gifts, we would all eat together, then they were free to go wherever they wanted for the rest of the day. I would buy so many gifts - sometimes buying silly things to ensure that everyone had the same number of gifts. Exactly. Didn't matter how much I spent (which was never a whole lot), but everyone got the same number of gifts. That year I remember it was 27 gifts apiece. Of course we had to open each one - one person at a time - so it took us a little while to get through all the gifts. I loved watching it all - but being sick, I could only sit in my chair and watch.
After the gifts were open and everyone went in to eat, I continued to sit in my chair when God spoke to me. Yes, I know without a doubt it was Him. "You are selfish." What? Me selfish? How can you say I'm selfish? Look at all these gifts I bought and all these things I made - how can you say I'm selfish? "You are selfish."
As I sat there and thought about it, God revealed to me why He said I was selfish. I wasn't selfish with material things. I was being selfish in wanting my children and grandchildren with ME first thing on Christmas morning. The grandchildren were not even opening their gifts at home - they were being awaken to come to grandma's house first. They would then either go to their 'other grandparent's house' or home to open their own gifts. As God revealed all this to me, I realized He was right. I was being selfish.
I called my children over and told them I was sorry, that God had revealed that I was being selfish. Of course they immediately said 'you are not!' - so I had to explain. I told them from then on, they were to have their Christmas at home first, and then stop by whenever they wanted to later Christmas day. It was hard for me to tell them that, for I love being with them all and seeing all their excitement.
But Christmas is not about me. It is about Jesus, his birth celebrated on Christmas day. That is what we are to be celebrating - not giving gifts to each other. But, of course, I still do that, just not in that quanity. It isn't the number of gifts, it is being with family that you love. (and perhaps some you don't!)
This year, think about what you do Christmas morning. We start ours off with just Tom and I. We open our stockings from Santa (yes, I still believe in Santa Claus) then gifts from each other. Tom brings my coffee before we even start (is he trained or what!) I fix lunch now - and whoever stops by around that time opens their gifts and eat when they want to. Then later in the day we head out to our daughter's for a few hours. They insisted on starting their own tradition of everyone going to see them. Kind of like I was doing first thing, I think, but it is what they wanted. It's not the same as by then it is crazy and everyone opens their gifts at the same time and I miss getting to see their faces seeing what I searched so diligently for them. But, each family has started their own traditions. And I have to let go.
Think about what you would like to change from Christmas past, then make that change. Take time to celebrate Jesus and remind your children and grandchildren the reason for the celebration. It isn't just about gifts, it is about loving each other too. What is your tradition?
Blessings!
Monday, November 28, 2011
Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens....
bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens..... sigh.... what is it that Julie Andrews said when she sung this song in The Sound of Music? When you are feeling sad, to think of your favorite things?
I'm not sad, but frustrated somewhat. Cobra insurance is giving me fits this morning and hubby needs his eye meds. So, if I go around singing about my favorite things, will that help me feel better? I checked on this before I 'retired' and was assured no problems. Yes, I mailed the check for the cobra insurance within a short time after receiving the information. Perhaps it is caught up in the processing. I sent Aetna an email this morning - and they have, in the past, been pretty good about getting back right away. Hopefully we can get this quickly resolved and his eye meds in the mail.
Hubby has gone for a morning meeting with a friend and I have a little time alone. Then he wants us to go to the gym. I should have gone earlier this morning - I've been up since 4AM. After that, I may run away and try to get some shopping done. I tried to do some shopping yesterday, but I have no clue as to what anyone wants or needs. I just walk up and down the aisles and have been walking out of the stores empty handed. They had best speak up soon or they may get nothing. Not that the children will care, but the grandchildren might!
I've decided that I like - and don't like - being 'retired'. I enjoy the freedom of being able to do things I couldn't do before when working without scheduling specific times to do it. I don't like my time being managed for me. I miss working with others. I enjoy people and miss the interaction. I sent my resume to one place last week and will be checking out other places today. If it wasn't for medical insurance, I wouldn't be so concerned about it, but at end of year, I will have none. Although I am in good health, it is good to have 'just in case'.
Regardless of how long it takes me to find employment, I know it will be in God's timing. I trust Him. When He provided me this opportunity to retire early, He showed me it was 'time' for me to leave where I was. I began praying then that He would prepare where and what He wanted me to do. I'm trusting in Him to provide. Maybe it isn't in His plans for me to go back to work. I don't know. If it isn't, I'm still trusting in Him to meet our needs (not necessarily wants). I will continue to look until He makes it clear that I don't need to. To keep my sanity, I'm sure He will provide something soon! LOL I keep talking Starbucks - I hear they have great benefits!
A few of my favorite things... getting away for a few days later this week for a retreat with God... Hubby and I watching chick flicks... Spending time with my children... Spending more time with my grandchildren... Being available to serve whenever God sends me somewhere... Having extended time each morning with God... Baking and giving it away... Being with friends... Getting my fingernails painted by my granddaughter..
What are your favorite things? What brings you joy?
Blessings!
I'm not sad, but frustrated somewhat. Cobra insurance is giving me fits this morning and hubby needs his eye meds. So, if I go around singing about my favorite things, will that help me feel better? I checked on this before I 'retired' and was assured no problems. Yes, I mailed the check for the cobra insurance within a short time after receiving the information. Perhaps it is caught up in the processing. I sent Aetna an email this morning - and they have, in the past, been pretty good about getting back right away. Hopefully we can get this quickly resolved and his eye meds in the mail.
Hubby has gone for a morning meeting with a friend and I have a little time alone. Then he wants us to go to the gym. I should have gone earlier this morning - I've been up since 4AM. After that, I may run away and try to get some shopping done. I tried to do some shopping yesterday, but I have no clue as to what anyone wants or needs. I just walk up and down the aisles and have been walking out of the stores empty handed. They had best speak up soon or they may get nothing. Not that the children will care, but the grandchildren might!
I've decided that I like - and don't like - being 'retired'. I enjoy the freedom of being able to do things I couldn't do before when working without scheduling specific times to do it. I don't like my time being managed for me. I miss working with others. I enjoy people and miss the interaction. I sent my resume to one place last week and will be checking out other places today. If it wasn't for medical insurance, I wouldn't be so concerned about it, but at end of year, I will have none. Although I am in good health, it is good to have 'just in case'.
Regardless of how long it takes me to find employment, I know it will be in God's timing. I trust Him. When He provided me this opportunity to retire early, He showed me it was 'time' for me to leave where I was. I began praying then that He would prepare where and what He wanted me to do. I'm trusting in Him to provide. Maybe it isn't in His plans for me to go back to work. I don't know. If it isn't, I'm still trusting in Him to meet our needs (not necessarily wants). I will continue to look until He makes it clear that I don't need to. To keep my sanity, I'm sure He will provide something soon! LOL I keep talking Starbucks - I hear they have great benefits!
A few of my favorite things... getting away for a few days later this week for a retreat with God... Hubby and I watching chick flicks... Spending time with my children... Spending more time with my grandchildren... Being available to serve whenever God sends me somewhere... Having extended time each morning with God... Baking and giving it away... Being with friends... Getting my fingernails painted by my granddaughter..
What are your favorite things? What brings you joy?
Blessings!
Friday, November 25, 2011
Day after Thanksgiving....
What a fun time we had yesterday with family and eating more than our fill! Mary, Tom, Stuart and I played a game of scrabble - and in spite of bickering on whether words are authentic, using Mary's 1982 edition dictionary (which made us laugh for at the top it says 'for those who want to be right') that is very outdated - Mary won the first round. Then Mary, Tricia (with Stevie's help) and I played another round of scrabble - which I won. It was a lot of fun, food was delicious, and just being with family is priceless.
Reading on facebook it looks like a lot of friends ate too much - and then late last night went to the "black Friday shopping frenzy'. Not me! I figure I wouldn't save anything for I don't know what to buy anyone yet - and I would just buy because it is on sale - and then would spend more than I would otherwise! I already have each of the couples their 'big' gift. (Now when they read this they will try to figure out what it is! LOL) I just don't know what to get individually. I like to shop with the person in mind, looking for that special something that I either know they want, or would really like. Going shopping just to get a good deal without anyone in mind to get it for - is useless to me.
I did do the Black Friday shopping thing one year. A girlfriend talked me in to it so at 5AM we were at a WalMart which was already across the front, down the back and going up the middle when we arrived. When we got inside, me - having no idea what I even wanted to buy - just wandered up and down the filled aisles - finally found a VCR I thought I would give to someone (I think) that I got for $25 (this was maybe ten years ago) and stood in line. For 45 minutes. For just a VCR. S T U P I D. Decided that was the last time I would do that. And it has been. If I feel the urge to go shopping, I wait until late in the day - most of the items are still on sale and I don't have the crowds up against me. I can't stand being surrounded by people pushing and shoving. I have been known to put everything back out of the cart and leave the store empty handed!
There have been a couple things that have come to mind to pick up - and I may head out later this afternoon to check them out. Then again, may just put on some chick flick and stay at home and watch it too. :-) I have other things I probably need to do instead of shopping and watching movies. I'm speaking at Pioneer Village on Sunday so should continue to review and work on my message. My real focus on it will be tomorrow and again Sunday morning before heading up.
Had a wonderful visit with Ralph and Ralphie, Nathan and David this morning for breakfast. I love being with family. After breakfast we headed to JCL-NM to visit a friend in the hospital. Now we are back home and just getting caught on on things. It is a beautiful day outside with the sun shining. I think it is to be 70 today. Maybe I can get Tom to go for a walk later.
What are you up to today? Busy out doing the Black Friday shopping thing? Getting your Christmas items out of storage to work on putting up? (Hope I can do that this next week!!) Take some time to remember someone who may not have had family and friends to be with yesterday. Visit someone in the hospital. Pick up the phone and just say you care to someone.
You may get a call too.
Blessings!
Reading on facebook it looks like a lot of friends ate too much - and then late last night went to the "black Friday shopping frenzy'. Not me! I figure I wouldn't save anything for I don't know what to buy anyone yet - and I would just buy because it is on sale - and then would spend more than I would otherwise! I already have each of the couples their 'big' gift. (Now when they read this they will try to figure out what it is! LOL) I just don't know what to get individually. I like to shop with the person in mind, looking for that special something that I either know they want, or would really like. Going shopping just to get a good deal without anyone in mind to get it for - is useless to me.
I did do the Black Friday shopping thing one year. A girlfriend talked me in to it so at 5AM we were at a WalMart which was already across the front, down the back and going up the middle when we arrived. When we got inside, me - having no idea what I even wanted to buy - just wandered up and down the filled aisles - finally found a VCR I thought I would give to someone (I think) that I got for $25 (this was maybe ten years ago) and stood in line. For 45 minutes. For just a VCR. S T U P I D. Decided that was the last time I would do that. And it has been. If I feel the urge to go shopping, I wait until late in the day - most of the items are still on sale and I don't have the crowds up against me. I can't stand being surrounded by people pushing and shoving. I have been known to put everything back out of the cart and leave the store empty handed!
There have been a couple things that have come to mind to pick up - and I may head out later this afternoon to check them out. Then again, may just put on some chick flick and stay at home and watch it too. :-) I have other things I probably need to do instead of shopping and watching movies. I'm speaking at Pioneer Village on Sunday so should continue to review and work on my message. My real focus on it will be tomorrow and again Sunday morning before heading up.
Had a wonderful visit with Ralph and Ralphie, Nathan and David this morning for breakfast. I love being with family. After breakfast we headed to JCL-NM to visit a friend in the hospital. Now we are back home and just getting caught on on things. It is a beautiful day outside with the sun shining. I think it is to be 70 today. Maybe I can get Tom to go for a walk later.
What are you up to today? Busy out doing the Black Friday shopping thing? Getting your Christmas items out of storage to work on putting up? (Hope I can do that this next week!!) Take some time to remember someone who may not have had family and friends to be with yesterday. Visit someone in the hospital. Pick up the phone and just say you care to someone.
You may get a call too.
Blessings!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Thankfulness...
I have many things I am thankful for. My life, for one thing, and certainly the life of my daughter, Mary. God healed her ten years ago and we are so grateful to Him.
I'm thankful for my husband, Tom, who among other things, does the dishes every meal for me, makes the bed every day, does the laundry every week. I'm thankful for my son, Ralph, who is always available to come check out our computers and anything else that starts acting crazy. And I'm thankful for my son, Stuart, who always calls to tell me he loves me.
I am thankful for my childrens' spouses - that they encourage my children to keep in touch and let me know what is going on in their lives. They are willing to share their family with us.
You know I am thankful for precious grandchildren that God has blessed me with! I love and adore each and every one of them. Princess Bethany has been with me three days this week, helping me clean out cabinets and painting my fingernails and just loving on me. I have been so full of joy with her being with us. This is the first time she has actually stayed with us - and stayed longer than a short evening visit. I had so much fun with her - and I hope she enjoyed it as much. She made Tuscany Bean Soup for dinner tonight - and my special salsa to take with her, share with her daddy, and left some here for grandpa. She is such a blessing to me, such a joy.
Not to say the others aren't! Stevie and Princess Tricia stopped by tonight with mom and dad - and I'm a sucker for their hugs. They give REAL hugs, not the quickie where you think they squeezed you but aren't sure.
I'm so blessed. God has indeed blessed my socks off! He has brought me so much joy with my grandchildren, my children, my husband. Thank you, Father.
How are you feeling this Thanksgiving Eve? Do you realize how precious you are to others? How precious your family is to you?
The greatest thankfulness that any of us can have, greater than even grandchildren, is that Jesus Christ went to the cross to die for our sins, that we can have eternal life. All we have to do is confess our sins, repent, and ask Jesus into our hearts - and give Him control. Doesn't mean life is going to be easy. One thing for sure, if you give each day to Him, it is His responsibility to help you through it, but you have to take your hands off and let Him work. Trust Him. He works for you! He loves you!
I am truly thankful for God's forgiveness for my past and that He gives me hope for tomorrow. His mercy is far greater than my sins.
May tomorrow before you eat, you will pause to thank God for what He has blessed you with. I will.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Blessings!
I'm thankful for my husband, Tom, who among other things, does the dishes every meal for me, makes the bed every day, does the laundry every week. I'm thankful for my son, Ralph, who is always available to come check out our computers and anything else that starts acting crazy. And I'm thankful for my son, Stuart, who always calls to tell me he loves me.
I am thankful for my childrens' spouses - that they encourage my children to keep in touch and let me know what is going on in their lives. They are willing to share their family with us.
You know I am thankful for precious grandchildren that God has blessed me with! I love and adore each and every one of them. Princess Bethany has been with me three days this week, helping me clean out cabinets and painting my fingernails and just loving on me. I have been so full of joy with her being with us. This is the first time she has actually stayed with us - and stayed longer than a short evening visit. I had so much fun with her - and I hope she enjoyed it as much. She made Tuscany Bean Soup for dinner tonight - and my special salsa to take with her, share with her daddy, and left some here for grandpa. She is such a blessing to me, such a joy.
Not to say the others aren't! Stevie and Princess Tricia stopped by tonight with mom and dad - and I'm a sucker for their hugs. They give REAL hugs, not the quickie where you think they squeezed you but aren't sure.
I'm so blessed. God has indeed blessed my socks off! He has brought me so much joy with my grandchildren, my children, my husband. Thank you, Father.
How are you feeling this Thanksgiving Eve? Do you realize how precious you are to others? How precious your family is to you?
The greatest thankfulness that any of us can have, greater than even grandchildren, is that Jesus Christ went to the cross to die for our sins, that we can have eternal life. All we have to do is confess our sins, repent, and ask Jesus into our hearts - and give Him control. Doesn't mean life is going to be easy. One thing for sure, if you give each day to Him, it is His responsibility to help you through it, but you have to take your hands off and let Him work. Trust Him. He works for you! He loves you!
I am truly thankful for God's forgiveness for my past and that He gives me hope for tomorrow. His mercy is far greater than my sins.
May tomorrow before you eat, you will pause to thank God for what He has blessed you with. I will.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Blessings!
Monday, November 21, 2011
My Great Love Story
We watched another movie last night which was 'odd', yet I was able to follow the path - going from what 'was' to what 'is'. It was a story of love, yet lost. Before we watched it, I had read an email from my little sister who commented after reading my blog, that like my granddaughter, she felt I should write a book. Of course I laughed at that although that has been a dream of mine since I was a little girl.
So what happens? During the night I wake up and begin thinking about the movie, and about my life. I decided, in my sleepiness, that perhaps I would write a book and that the title would be 'My Great Love Story'. I began thinking back as far as I could remember, and what I would want to tell in the story, discarding many things. The one consistent thought that kept coming to me throughout my entire life, is God's love for me.
I smiled as I thought about how God has interwoven the threads of my life into a tapestry of beauty. Not of me, of course, but my life before Him. Yes, it has a lot of stretched threads where I have chosen to go my own way, but the consistent thing is His love is woven throughout the tapestry, even in those difficult times. I remember a story.....
As I faced my Maker at the last judgment, I knelt before the Lord along with all the other souls. Before each of us laid our lives like the squares of a quilt in many piles; an angel sat before each of us sewing our quilt squares together into a tapestry that is our life. But as my angel took each piece of cloth off the pile, I noticed how ragged and empty each of my squares was. They were filled with giant holes. Each square was labeled with a part of my life that had been difficult, the challenges and temptations I was faced with in every day life. I saw hardships that I endured, which were the largest holes of all. I glanced around me. Nobody else had such squares. Other than a tiny hole here and there, the other tapestries were filled with rich color and the bright hues of worldly fortune. I gazed upon my own life and was disheartened.
My angel was sewing the ragged pieces of cloth together, threadbare and empty, like binding air. Finally the time came when each life was to be displayed, held up to the light, the scrutiny of truth. The others rose; each in turn, holding up their tapestries. So filled their lives had been! My angel looked upon me, and nodded for me to rise.
My gaze dropped to the ground in shame. I hadn't had all the earthly fortunes. I had love in my life, and laughter. But there had also been trials of illness, and wealth, and false accusations that took from me my world, as I knew it. I had to start over many times. I often struggled with the temptation to quit, only to somehow muster the strength to pick up and begin again. I spent many nights on my knees in prayer, asking for help and guidance in my life. I had often been held up to ridicule, which I endured painfully, each time offering it up to the Father in hopes that I would not melt within my skin beneath the judgmental gaze of those who unfairly judged me.
See, He is my great Love Story. He has never left me, nor forsaken me. As I run into His arms daily, He supplies all that I need, whether I realize it at the time or not. He is Faithful to all who come to Him.
What would be your great love story? I pray it will also be a tapestry of love, woven together by the angels and displayed for all the world to see.
Blessings!
So what happens? During the night I wake up and begin thinking about the movie, and about my life. I decided, in my sleepiness, that perhaps I would write a book and that the title would be 'My Great Love Story'. I began thinking back as far as I could remember, and what I would want to tell in the story, discarding many things. The one consistent thought that kept coming to me throughout my entire life, is God's love for me.
I smiled as I thought about how God has interwoven the threads of my life into a tapestry of beauty. Not of me, of course, but my life before Him. Yes, it has a lot of stretched threads where I have chosen to go my own way, but the consistent thing is His love is woven throughout the tapestry, even in those difficult times. I remember a story.....
As I faced my Maker at the last judgment, I knelt before the Lord along with all the other souls. Before each of us laid our lives like the squares of a quilt in many piles; an angel sat before each of us sewing our quilt squares together into a tapestry that is our life. But as my angel took each piece of cloth off the pile, I noticed how ragged and empty each of my squares was. They were filled with giant holes. Each square was labeled with a part of my life that had been difficult, the challenges and temptations I was faced with in every day life. I saw hardships that I endured, which were the largest holes of all. I glanced around me. Nobody else had such squares. Other than a tiny hole here and there, the other tapestries were filled with rich color and the bright hues of worldly fortune. I gazed upon my own life and was disheartened.
My angel was sewing the ragged pieces of cloth together, threadbare and empty, like binding air. Finally the time came when each life was to be displayed, held up to the light, the scrutiny of truth. The others rose; each in turn, holding up their tapestries. So filled their lives had been! My angel looked upon me, and nodded for me to rise.
My gaze dropped to the ground in shame. I hadn't had all the earthly fortunes. I had love in my life, and laughter. But there had also been trials of illness, and wealth, and false accusations that took from me my world, as I knew it. I had to start over many times. I often struggled with the temptation to quit, only to somehow muster the strength to pick up and begin again. I spent many nights on my knees in prayer, asking for help and guidance in my life. I had often been held up to ridicule, which I endured painfully, each time offering it up to the Father in hopes that I would not melt within my skin beneath the judgmental gaze of those who unfairly judged me.
And now, I had to face the truth. My life was what it was, and I had to accept it for what it was.
I rose and slowly lifted the combined squares of my life to the light. An awe-filled gasp filled the air. I gazed around at the others who stared at me with wide eyes. Then, I looked upon the tapestry before me. Light flooded the many holes, creating an image, the face of Christ. Then our Lord stood before me, with warmth and love in His eyes. He said, 'Every time you gave over your life to Me, it became My life, My hardships, and My struggles. Each point of light in your life is when you stepped aside and let Me shine through, until there was more of Me than there was of you.'
I rose and slowly lifted the combined squares of my life to the light. An awe-filled gasp filled the air. I gazed around at the others who stared at me with wide eyes. Then, I looked upon the tapestry before me. Light flooded the many holes, creating an image, the face of Christ. Then our Lord stood before me, with warmth and love in His eyes. He said, 'Every time you gave over your life to Me, it became My life, My hardships, and My struggles. Each point of light in your life is when you stepped aside and let Me shine through, until there was more of Me than there was of you.'
What would be your great love story? I pray it will also be a tapestry of love, woven together by the angels and displayed for all the world to see.
Blessings!
Sunday, November 20, 2011
What if....
We watched a movie last night titled 'What If''. It is a story about a man who got a glimpse of his life had he made another choice. A movie much like 'Family Man' that we also enjoy.
As I thought about what to share today, the 'what if' keeps coming to me. What if. What if.
What if you had chosen someone else to be your spouse. What if you had chosen to remain single. What if you had decided to have children. What if you decided not to have children.
What if you decided to live your life your way and ignore God and His plan for you.
What if you decided to take a job that helped financially but you didn't really like. What if you decided to take a job that didn't pay much, but you loved it.
What if you chose to live your life surrendered to God.
What if..... What if......
Think about it. What would change, if anything, if you got a glimpse of what your life could/would have been like had you made the choice to do something different than what you did?
Would you really change the important parts of your life? Sure, we all have made wrong choices about some things, but for the really important things, would we want to change them? I feel there are pros and cons to every decision, good and bad. Are they bad enough that you want to change them? Was your choice so wrong? Or was your choice so right there is no question about where you are right now?
Each decision is yours alone to make. The final decision is yours. You may discuss it with someone, but right down to the line, it is your decision to make.
If you stop and choose now to change direction, who all will it affect? Your spouse? Your children? Your parents? Your family? The dog?
Will it be a GOOD change?
Before you make that final decision, really think it through. What if..... What if....
Blessings!
As I thought about what to share today, the 'what if' keeps coming to me. What if. What if.
What if you had chosen someone else to be your spouse. What if you had chosen to remain single. What if you had decided to have children. What if you decided not to have children.
What if you decided to live your life your way and ignore God and His plan for you.
What if you decided to take a job that helped financially but you didn't really like. What if you decided to take a job that didn't pay much, but you loved it.
What if you chose to live your life surrendered to God.
What if..... What if......
Think about it. What would change, if anything, if you got a glimpse of what your life could/would have been like had you made the choice to do something different than what you did?
Would you really change the important parts of your life? Sure, we all have made wrong choices about some things, but for the really important things, would we want to change them? I feel there are pros and cons to every decision, good and bad. Are they bad enough that you want to change them? Was your choice so wrong? Or was your choice so right there is no question about where you are right now?
Each decision is yours alone to make. The final decision is yours. You may discuss it with someone, but right down to the line, it is your decision to make.
If you stop and choose now to change direction, who all will it affect? Your spouse? Your children? Your parents? Your family? The dog?
Will it be a GOOD change?
Before you make that final decision, really think it through. What if..... What if....
Blessings!
Friday, November 18, 2011
Gratefulness
As I sit here at my computer, I am listening to the sound of the clock ticking in the background. I am looking outside the window at the beauty of the sky. I am feeling the warmth of the sun as it shines through the window upon me. And, I think, this is good. Silence. Beauty. Warmth.
I love these moments that come when I can be quiet and just 'be'. I don't have to be doing anything (although I am typing this as I process what I'm feeling and thinking), and as I pause to enjoy what I have at this moment, I realize again how blessed I am.
So many people are so busy, and even more are gearing up for the holidays to overwhelm themselves with things to do and things to buy and places to go and people to see. But, do they just stop and allow peace to flood them. Do they stop long enough to hear the birds singing their sweet notes. Do they stop to gaze at the beauty around them, the sky, the flowers, the trees. Do they stop and take a deep breath and let go of the cares they have been carrying far too long.
I'm blessed for at this moment I am 'retired'. I have been able to have several moments where I can stop and see and hear and breathe in the goodness of God. The thought occurs to me - how long can I drag this out? Time to be able to just 'Be'. I have said I want to be home through the holidays, but I probably should start looking next month. Some days I think I need to look sooner for I'm not used to so much time available to me and I find I can get bored easily. Not that I don't have several things I could be doing.
Yet, I also find I have many things that I am doing that I didn't have time for when I worked. And those, I feel, are good things. Things like spending time with my children, my grandchildren, shopping for loved ones, planning meals and cooking, attending concerts, spending more time in my quiet time with God. These are good things. Things I enjoy.
I'm so grateful that I have had this time made available to me. I feel it is a gift from God, my reward of sorts, that I can have this time to grow in Him and get my heart in tune again with my abilities to serve. I'm limited, extremely limited, in what I can do for various reasons. But what am I doing with the gifts He has already given me and made available to me to use? I need to quit using my usual excuses of being too busy and focus on how I can be His servant.
What about you? Has busyness taken over your life that whenever you are asked to serve you just can't seem to see when or how or what you can do? Do you not realize we are called to serve? Whether it be to serve in any capacity at a church (greeter?), to help serve (Food Bank?), be available (do I hear children, grandchildren, nieces or nephews?), to prepare a meal (is someone in need of encouragement?), or just to listen (is someone hurting that just sitting and holding their hand is what is needed?), we all can be used.
I think of my little sister struggling to get her life back after the fall down the stairs. She isn't used to having someone wait upon her, she is always the one wanting to serve. God is teaching her some things; I pray she sits back and listens. Family can encourage her to not give up.
I think of my daughter-in-law's mother and what she is going through on a daily basis with a loved one, and the recent loss of her sister. My heart aches for her. I don't know if I could endure what she is experiencing. She is living her Christian walk by serving her loved one. Her children raise up and call her Blessed, for that is what she is. She is an inspiration to me. Her children encourage and love her.
I think of my neighbor who is daily put in a chair to watch TV. After leading a very active life, in her 30's was stricken with MS and has not been able to walk in over 20 years. She has a caretaker who watches over her and serves her every need. Her children have deserted her for they are of the world and want only what they can take from her. We both love chocolate. Our conversations are interesting. She never feels sorry for herself. She has friends who stop by occasionally and bring her things.
I think of many friends and family members who have much going on in their lives. Perhaps their spouses are not doing well, their own jobs are difficult, money seems to be non-existent, they feel very much alone. I think we all have friends and family somewhere in our lives like that. Learn to serve by being an encourager, a listener, a servant. Be grateful that you can. Give of what God has blessed you with.
I am grateful to God for so many things. Sometimes He has to shake me up to get my attention in some areas, and I give Him permission to do so. Each struggle that He allows me to go through (usually each struggle is from my own wrong choices) I grow stronger because I try to learn from my choices. But I must go through the struggle to learn it.
I am grateful because God doesn't give up on me. Nor does He give up on you. No matter what you are going through, whether it is because of wrong choices, whether it is because of sickness or results of others' decisions and actions, He will never leave you nor forsake you. Honest. His Word says so and God does not lie.
Think about being grateful - and thanking Him for always walking you through the valleys as you head up the next mountain. How great is His faithfulness to us. Share that gratefulness with others, how can you serve them today.
Blessings!
I love these moments that come when I can be quiet and just 'be'. I don't have to be doing anything (although I am typing this as I process what I'm feeling and thinking), and as I pause to enjoy what I have at this moment, I realize again how blessed I am.
So many people are so busy, and even more are gearing up for the holidays to overwhelm themselves with things to do and things to buy and places to go and people to see. But, do they just stop and allow peace to flood them. Do they stop long enough to hear the birds singing their sweet notes. Do they stop to gaze at the beauty around them, the sky, the flowers, the trees. Do they stop and take a deep breath and let go of the cares they have been carrying far too long.
I'm blessed for at this moment I am 'retired'. I have been able to have several moments where I can stop and see and hear and breathe in the goodness of God. The thought occurs to me - how long can I drag this out? Time to be able to just 'Be'. I have said I want to be home through the holidays, but I probably should start looking next month. Some days I think I need to look sooner for I'm not used to so much time available to me and I find I can get bored easily. Not that I don't have several things I could be doing.
Yet, I also find I have many things that I am doing that I didn't have time for when I worked. And those, I feel, are good things. Things like spending time with my children, my grandchildren, shopping for loved ones, planning meals and cooking, attending concerts, spending more time in my quiet time with God. These are good things. Things I enjoy.
I'm so grateful that I have had this time made available to me. I feel it is a gift from God, my reward of sorts, that I can have this time to grow in Him and get my heart in tune again with my abilities to serve. I'm limited, extremely limited, in what I can do for various reasons. But what am I doing with the gifts He has already given me and made available to me to use? I need to quit using my usual excuses of being too busy and focus on how I can be His servant.
What about you? Has busyness taken over your life that whenever you are asked to serve you just can't seem to see when or how or what you can do? Do you not realize we are called to serve? Whether it be to serve in any capacity at a church (greeter?), to help serve (Food Bank?), be available (do I hear children, grandchildren, nieces or nephews?), to prepare a meal (is someone in need of encouragement?), or just to listen (is someone hurting that just sitting and holding their hand is what is needed?), we all can be used.
I think of my little sister struggling to get her life back after the fall down the stairs. She isn't used to having someone wait upon her, she is always the one wanting to serve. God is teaching her some things; I pray she sits back and listens. Family can encourage her to not give up.
I think of my daughter-in-law's mother and what she is going through on a daily basis with a loved one, and the recent loss of her sister. My heart aches for her. I don't know if I could endure what she is experiencing. She is living her Christian walk by serving her loved one. Her children raise up and call her Blessed, for that is what she is. She is an inspiration to me. Her children encourage and love her.
I think of my neighbor who is daily put in a chair to watch TV. After leading a very active life, in her 30's was stricken with MS and has not been able to walk in over 20 years. She has a caretaker who watches over her and serves her every need. Her children have deserted her for they are of the world and want only what they can take from her. We both love chocolate. Our conversations are interesting. She never feels sorry for herself. She has friends who stop by occasionally and bring her things.
I think of many friends and family members who have much going on in their lives. Perhaps their spouses are not doing well, their own jobs are difficult, money seems to be non-existent, they feel very much alone. I think we all have friends and family somewhere in our lives like that. Learn to serve by being an encourager, a listener, a servant. Be grateful that you can. Give of what God has blessed you with.
I am grateful to God for so many things. Sometimes He has to shake me up to get my attention in some areas, and I give Him permission to do so. Each struggle that He allows me to go through (usually each struggle is from my own wrong choices) I grow stronger because I try to learn from my choices. But I must go through the struggle to learn it.
I am grateful because God doesn't give up on me. Nor does He give up on you. No matter what you are going through, whether it is because of wrong choices, whether it is because of sickness or results of others' decisions and actions, He will never leave you nor forsake you. Honest. His Word says so and God does not lie.
Think about being grateful - and thanking Him for always walking you through the valleys as you head up the next mountain. How great is His faithfulness to us. Share that gratefulness with others, how can you serve them today.
Blessings!
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Dance While You Can....
My little sister sent me a book recently titled Dance While You Can by Lance Wubbels. I love the things it says about living life while you can. Just a few of my own thoughts...
What if.... some one died and you never got around to telling them how much they meant to you? Don't live with regrets.
What if... your child was hurt and you weren't available to comfort them? Always be available no matter what.
What if... you were diagnosed with a disease, and instead of turning your attention to God and others, you withheld your emotions and feelings and kept to yourself? God doesn't want us to walk our journey alone, He has someone to walk with you.
What if... you can fill in the blanks....
I'm just pondering my thoughts about the book. It helped me remember that God doesn't want us to hide His light under a bushel - NO! - but we are to be His light wherever we are. He wants us to love life, to live our lives to the fullest, to dance while we still can.
One of my favorite sayings in this book is: "I will believe what my Creator has said, "For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11) I will walk forward in the certainty that my dance is secure."
I know the path before me is good for my God has said He has plans to prosper me, not harm me. He has plans to give me hope and a future. I look to Him for guidance in making the right choices so that I can walk where He wants me to go, and do what He wants me to do. My life is surrendered unto Him alone.
What about you? Are you trying to live your life on your own? Feel like you have fallen on your face a few times? Need to get up and brush stuff off so that you can live again? Trust in the One who created you. He has plans for you.
To borrow again from the book, another of my favorites:
"Dance While You Can.... I will not stand to the side and allow the music in my heart to fade away and die. I will dance to my own life song."
Get the book - you will love it - and it makes a great gift for someone close to you.
What is your life song? Don't forget to dance.
Blessings!
What if.... some one died and you never got around to telling them how much they meant to you? Don't live with regrets.
What if... your child was hurt and you weren't available to comfort them? Always be available no matter what.
What if... you were diagnosed with a disease, and instead of turning your attention to God and others, you withheld your emotions and feelings and kept to yourself? God doesn't want us to walk our journey alone, He has someone to walk with you.
What if... you can fill in the blanks....
I'm just pondering my thoughts about the book. It helped me remember that God doesn't want us to hide His light under a bushel - NO! - but we are to be His light wherever we are. He wants us to love life, to live our lives to the fullest, to dance while we still can.
One of my favorite sayings in this book is: "I will believe what my Creator has said, "For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11) I will walk forward in the certainty that my dance is secure."
I know the path before me is good for my God has said He has plans to prosper me, not harm me. He has plans to give me hope and a future. I look to Him for guidance in making the right choices so that I can walk where He wants me to go, and do what He wants me to do. My life is surrendered unto Him alone.
What about you? Are you trying to live your life on your own? Feel like you have fallen on your face a few times? Need to get up and brush stuff off so that you can live again? Trust in the One who created you. He has plans for you.
To borrow again from the book, another of my favorites:
"Dance While You Can.... I will not stand to the side and allow the music in my heart to fade away and die. I will dance to my own life song."
Get the book - you will love it - and it makes a great gift for someone close to you.
What is your life song? Don't forget to dance.
Blessings!
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Updates on Life
Thought perhaps I should try to do 'catch up' on the many different topics I have put on here the past month or so. Things change as time goes by and I change as well. Hopefully, for the better.
I 'retired' a little over two weeks ago. Today I went back to the office for a pre-Thanksgiving lunch with a department I worked with. I enjoyed so much getting to see everyone, laughing with them and just enjoying being with friends. It was a good time. Then I stopped by the building I had worked at and got to visit my co-worker, Jill, and the other executives and other friends. It was a nice visit. It made me feel good to be told I was 'missed'.
As for our dilemna we have been praying and fasting over - still not sure how that is going to end. I had a talk a week ago with the person causing me so much pain and was able to communicate what I felt. I was told what I felt was not what was meant. We discussed it and after 1 1/2 hours I felt much better about clearing the air between us. Still don't agree with his concept of things, but he understands why I stand up for what I believe to be right. I did tell him we would probably be leaving, for which it made him sad. Interestingly enough, Tom told me this past week that he doesn't feel it is time for him to leave. He feels that he has not accomplished what God wanted him there for. Ok, I can go along with that. It is interesting how the atmosphere around this one person has changed since he and I talked. He has told me that it has been impressed on him by God that I am to do certain things - and he is to take his hands off. Last night he showed me and another person scripture in Ezekiel about the watchman - and he feels that has become my role and he needs to listen to what I (and another person) say. I told Tom that I will continue to go there with him, but if I choose, I may also go elsewhere as well. He agrees. Other than that, it is entirely up to God what we are to do.
I made an offer to help with worship at church as it hasn't been very inspiring lately. Wow, did I get a long letter from the worship leader on that one! He gave me all his credentials and abilities, etc. My thought was, if you have all that, why are you not using them? I had no idea of what he says he can do, of what his experience is. I haven't seen any of that yet. But, I have stepped back on this - he is the one needing to prove himself. He is a good man and I am sure he just needs to be more bold in bringing us into worship. Time will tell, I guess. Worship is important to me. If I don't get it, I have to find it elsewhere.
My little sister FINALLY went back to the ER Monday, after I begged her. She has a cantaloupe on her hip, she says, and a hematoma from her waist down to her knee. She is going to the doctor today to have the staples removed and is to call me after. She had more cat scans and MRIs while at the ER. Her hand is still swollen, but is still told just sprained. She still has trouble with remembering some things but it will settle down in time. I appreciate the prayers for her behalf.
Next week my Princess Bethany is coming to stay with me and I plan to put her to work going through my craft closet. I have so much 'stuff' and I need to decide what to keep, what to give away and just what to do with it. I also want to get started on going through my Christmas things I've collected over the years. Same thing - time to sort through and either keep or give away.
We will be heading up to Prescott Valley today for the funeral of a dear friend. Evelina Kuhns attended Mountain Valley Church of God in Prescott Valley and she passed away this past week after a long, long illness. She will be missed.
Tomorrow night my son and daughter-in-law are taking us to the Don Williams concert here in Phoenix. I love Don Williams so Ralph got tickets for my birthday last August for me. What a great gift!
I guess that is about all that is going on in my life right now. The one thing that stays consistent is my quiet time with God. First thing each morning I go into my room for time with God. Tom will get up shortly after and bring me coffee and water, and there I sit and read and write until I am 'done'. I have to have my quiet time to start my day or it just doesn't come together for me.
How about you? Are you taking time for God before you begin your busy schedule? The holidays are coming and it won't get any easier. I encourage you to find even five minutes that you can be quiet and focus upon Him. You won't regret it.
Blessings!
I 'retired' a little over two weeks ago. Today I went back to the office for a pre-Thanksgiving lunch with a department I worked with. I enjoyed so much getting to see everyone, laughing with them and just enjoying being with friends. It was a good time. Then I stopped by the building I had worked at and got to visit my co-worker, Jill, and the other executives and other friends. It was a nice visit. It made me feel good to be told I was 'missed'.
As for our dilemna we have been praying and fasting over - still not sure how that is going to end. I had a talk a week ago with the person causing me so much pain and was able to communicate what I felt. I was told what I felt was not what was meant. We discussed it and after 1 1/2 hours I felt much better about clearing the air between us. Still don't agree with his concept of things, but he understands why I stand up for what I believe to be right. I did tell him we would probably be leaving, for which it made him sad. Interestingly enough, Tom told me this past week that he doesn't feel it is time for him to leave. He feels that he has not accomplished what God wanted him there for. Ok, I can go along with that. It is interesting how the atmosphere around this one person has changed since he and I talked. He has told me that it has been impressed on him by God that I am to do certain things - and he is to take his hands off. Last night he showed me and another person scripture in Ezekiel about the watchman - and he feels that has become my role and he needs to listen to what I (and another person) say. I told Tom that I will continue to go there with him, but if I choose, I may also go elsewhere as well. He agrees. Other than that, it is entirely up to God what we are to do.
I made an offer to help with worship at church as it hasn't been very inspiring lately. Wow, did I get a long letter from the worship leader on that one! He gave me all his credentials and abilities, etc. My thought was, if you have all that, why are you not using them? I had no idea of what he says he can do, of what his experience is. I haven't seen any of that yet. But, I have stepped back on this - he is the one needing to prove himself. He is a good man and I am sure he just needs to be more bold in bringing us into worship. Time will tell, I guess. Worship is important to me. If I don't get it, I have to find it elsewhere.
My little sister FINALLY went back to the ER Monday, after I begged her. She has a cantaloupe on her hip, she says, and a hematoma from her waist down to her knee. She is going to the doctor today to have the staples removed and is to call me after. She had more cat scans and MRIs while at the ER. Her hand is still swollen, but is still told just sprained. She still has trouble with remembering some things but it will settle down in time. I appreciate the prayers for her behalf.
Next week my Princess Bethany is coming to stay with me and I plan to put her to work going through my craft closet. I have so much 'stuff' and I need to decide what to keep, what to give away and just what to do with it. I also want to get started on going through my Christmas things I've collected over the years. Same thing - time to sort through and either keep or give away.
We will be heading up to Prescott Valley today for the funeral of a dear friend. Evelina Kuhns attended Mountain Valley Church of God in Prescott Valley and she passed away this past week after a long, long illness. She will be missed.
Tomorrow night my son and daughter-in-law are taking us to the Don Williams concert here in Phoenix. I love Don Williams so Ralph got tickets for my birthday last August for me. What a great gift!
I guess that is about all that is going on in my life right now. The one thing that stays consistent is my quiet time with God. First thing each morning I go into my room for time with God. Tom will get up shortly after and bring me coffee and water, and there I sit and read and write until I am 'done'. I have to have my quiet time to start my day or it just doesn't come together for me.
How about you? Are you taking time for God before you begin your busy schedule? The holidays are coming and it won't get any easier. I encourage you to find even five minutes that you can be quiet and focus upon Him. You won't regret it.
Blessings!
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Intercession
My little sister, Anita, whom I mentioned in a post earlier in the week, was sent home a couple days after her fall down a flight of stairs. I talked with her after she got home and she seemed to be doing ok. The x-rays had determined she had not broken her hip. She had a concussion, and trouble remembering where she was when she fell (doesn't remember going to the house or the fall). Other than scrapes and bruises, the doctors thought she was going to be ok, sore, but ok.
Tonight I received a text from her husband that she is running a high fever and a lot of pain/swelling on her hip. Also that she is having severe headaches (she has 6 staples in her head from a concussion). He also says her memory is spotty and she is often repeating things. He plans to take her to the hospital in the morning. Why he isn't taking her tonight, I don't know, unless she is refusing to go. Which would be like her. My lil' sissy doesn't like to inconvenience anyone - even at her own expense. I think that is something we learned from our mother.
Intercession is praying for someone or some thing. You pray because you want to see God act in that situation or circumstance. Sometimes you can do it on your own and God will answer immediately. Sometimes He wants us to ask our family and friends - and even strangers - to be in prayer and ask Him. Where two or more have gathered together He is there - and when two or more intercede in prayer, He is listening.
Please take a moment and whisper a prayer for my little sissy, Anita. That God will touch her body and bring complete and total healing, her fever will disappear, her body will be restored and whole. Pray for wisdom for the doctors should she be taken back to the hospital. In however method He chooses for her to be healed, He will be glorified, forever and ever.
Thank you for praying and interceding for my lil' sissy.
Blessings!
Tonight I received a text from her husband that she is running a high fever and a lot of pain/swelling on her hip. Also that she is having severe headaches (she has 6 staples in her head from a concussion). He also says her memory is spotty and she is often repeating things. He plans to take her to the hospital in the morning. Why he isn't taking her tonight, I don't know, unless she is refusing to go. Which would be like her. My lil' sissy doesn't like to inconvenience anyone - even at her own expense. I think that is something we learned from our mother.
Intercession is praying for someone or some thing. You pray because you want to see God act in that situation or circumstance. Sometimes you can do it on your own and God will answer immediately. Sometimes He wants us to ask our family and friends - and even strangers - to be in prayer and ask Him. Where two or more have gathered together He is there - and when two or more intercede in prayer, He is listening.
Please take a moment and whisper a prayer for my little sissy, Anita. That God will touch her body and bring complete and total healing, her fever will disappear, her body will be restored and whole. Pray for wisdom for the doctors should she be taken back to the hospital. In however method He chooses for her to be healed, He will be glorified, forever and ever.
Thank you for praying and interceding for my lil' sissy.
Blessings!
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Are you a Princess?
As I sit here and ponder what to write today, my thoughts turn to my granddaughters. I have been more involved with the older two, now 20 and 15, and I am thinking how from the very first moment I saw them, I have called them "Princess". I figured their parents would call them 'Angel' or some other endearment, but for me, I decided I would call them 'Princess'. And that is what they are.
They are full of grace and poise. They hold their heads high and are not afraid of being their own person. If you try to correct them, they will very firmly tell you "I am too a Princess, my Grandma says so!"
I love so much being with them. We enjoy a lot of the same movies. Growing up, Bethany's favorite was the Swan Princess, but also Beauty and the Beast. Tricia loves her ramen noodles when she is sick and we watch Cinderella. I think we all could sit for hours and just watch the 'Princess movies'. I love it when Bethany paints my fingernails with the faces of the Disney Princesses - without even looking at a photo! She knows each Princess by heart.
Our Heavenly Father knows each of us 'by heart'. He knows our every thought, before it is even thought or spoken. He knows every beat of our heart. He daily gives us abundant blessings - we only have to open our hearts and eyes to see and feel. The gentle touch of a child, the glance of an eye, the unexpected warmth of good things - they are all gifts from Him.
Even though I know some of the things my 'Princesses' like, I don't know them by heart the way God does. I just know to love them by heart. They make my heart smile. Little Princess Hailey lives far enough away I don't get to know her very well. Some day perhaps I can. God has truly blessed my life with all my Princesses - and my Princes' - and I am humbled by His graciousness to me.
Do you know that you touch our Father's heart? Gaze into the heavens and seek Him. Feel His peace, His love. He loves you 'more than you will ever remember'. After all, you could be a Princess! (or a Prince!)
Blessings!
They are full of grace and poise. They hold their heads high and are not afraid of being their own person. If you try to correct them, they will very firmly tell you "I am too a Princess, my Grandma says so!"
I love so much being with them. We enjoy a lot of the same movies. Growing up, Bethany's favorite was the Swan Princess, but also Beauty and the Beast. Tricia loves her ramen noodles when she is sick and we watch Cinderella. I think we all could sit for hours and just watch the 'Princess movies'. I love it when Bethany paints my fingernails with the faces of the Disney Princesses - without even looking at a photo! She knows each Princess by heart.
Our Heavenly Father knows each of us 'by heart'. He knows our every thought, before it is even thought or spoken. He knows every beat of our heart. He daily gives us abundant blessings - we only have to open our hearts and eyes to see and feel. The gentle touch of a child, the glance of an eye, the unexpected warmth of good things - they are all gifts from Him.
Even though I know some of the things my 'Princesses' like, I don't know them by heart the way God does. I just know to love them by heart. They make my heart smile. Little Princess Hailey lives far enough away I don't get to know her very well. Some day perhaps I can. God has truly blessed my life with all my Princesses - and my Princes' - and I am humbled by His graciousness to me.
Do you know that you touch our Father's heart? Gaze into the heavens and seek Him. Feel His peace, His love. He loves you 'more than you will ever remember'. After all, you could be a Princess! (or a Prince!)
Blessings!
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Do I trust God?
Completely. With love. With health. With finances. With employment. With provisions. With life. Completely. C O M P L E T E L Y. I trust Him with all of my heart, soul, mind and strength.
Why?
Because He alone is Almighty, Faithful, Sovereign, Glorious, Exalted, Adored, and so much more.
Because He alone is our Healer, Strength, Encourager, Builder, Provider, and so much more.
Because He loves me and loves it when I sit and talk with Him awhile. He also loves you and loves it when you take time out of your busy schedule to spend with Him.
Do I trust God? I trust Him enough that I daily put my children and grandchildren and those I love in His hands for Him to watch over.
I trust Him enough that ten years ago October 5th I gave Him my daughter who had leukemia, and He chose to provide the marrow needed to heal her. I can not praise Him enough.
Yesterday my little sister fell down a flight of stairs and is hurt pretty bad. Still haven't received definite word on what is going on. At first they said her hip was broken; the x-rays don't show a break. She has a bad concussion (with 6 staples in her head!) and has lost memory. How much I don't know. Her bruised hip shows some bleeding of the arteries, and the doctors are tracking that, plus continuing to review x-rays and scans. Do I still believe God was there? Absolutely! I believe God 'caught' her as she fell. She could have broken her neck, she could have had severe breakage from the fall. She has 'just enough' to slow her down. I trust God for her complete and total healing - why? Because she belongs to Him and I (and others) are interceding on her behalf. Her body may struggle, but it is what is inside that counts.
My youngest child has completed Army tours of duty in Iraq and Ubekistan. Did I trust God to bring him home safely? Yes I did. He is home but going through other battles and issues. I still trust God to bring him through it. Life is often a battle and how we respond to that battle is what makes us a better person.
I can not glorify God's name enough. I can not worship Him enough. All I have has been a gift from Him. All I am is my gift back to Him. I fall short daily of all I want to do and be for Him, and He gives me His Grace every day to keep me on track.
I want to be a God-chaser. I want to seek Him so desperately that in His love for me, He will show me a glimpse of His glory.
Do you trust God? Do you acknowledge that all you have is a gift from Him? Perhaps you don't know Him as your Lord and Savior, but you know of Him. It isn't just head knowledge, it is heart knowledge that draws you close. Trust Him. He is your Provider, your Strength, your Hope, your Salvation.
Blessings!
Why?
Because He alone is Almighty, Faithful, Sovereign, Glorious, Exalted, Adored, and so much more.
Because He alone is our Healer, Strength, Encourager, Builder, Provider, and so much more.
Because He loves me and loves it when I sit and talk with Him awhile. He also loves you and loves it when you take time out of your busy schedule to spend with Him.
Do I trust God? I trust Him enough that I daily put my children and grandchildren and those I love in His hands for Him to watch over.
I trust Him enough that ten years ago October 5th I gave Him my daughter who had leukemia, and He chose to provide the marrow needed to heal her. I can not praise Him enough.
Yesterday my little sister fell down a flight of stairs and is hurt pretty bad. Still haven't received definite word on what is going on. At first they said her hip was broken; the x-rays don't show a break. She has a bad concussion (with 6 staples in her head!) and has lost memory. How much I don't know. Her bruised hip shows some bleeding of the arteries, and the doctors are tracking that, plus continuing to review x-rays and scans. Do I still believe God was there? Absolutely! I believe God 'caught' her as she fell. She could have broken her neck, she could have had severe breakage from the fall. She has 'just enough' to slow her down. I trust God for her complete and total healing - why? Because she belongs to Him and I (and others) are interceding on her behalf. Her body may struggle, but it is what is inside that counts.
My youngest child has completed Army tours of duty in Iraq and Ubekistan. Did I trust God to bring him home safely? Yes I did. He is home but going through other battles and issues. I still trust God to bring him through it. Life is often a battle and how we respond to that battle is what makes us a better person.
I can not glorify God's name enough. I can not worship Him enough. All I have has been a gift from Him. All I am is my gift back to Him. I fall short daily of all I want to do and be for Him, and He gives me His Grace every day to keep me on track.
I want to be a God-chaser. I want to seek Him so desperately that in His love for me, He will show me a glimpse of His glory.
Do you trust God? Do you acknowledge that all you have is a gift from Him? Perhaps you don't know Him as your Lord and Savior, but you know of Him. It isn't just head knowledge, it is heart knowledge that draws you close. Trust Him. He is your Provider, your Strength, your Hope, your Salvation.
Blessings!
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Hide and Seek
Of all days to have my laptop playing hide and seek with me! I was on my computer off and on most of yesterday and it was fine. Last nite after my son and family left from a visit, I got on my laptop and the screen went black. I hit the 'on' key and it came back up in the lock position - then would go black again. After numerous times of trying to get it to stay up - I gave up. This morning - and again this afternoon, same thing. It kept wanting to play 'hide and seek'. I gave up and got on the PC. Good thing I kept this one as a back up. I have emailed the person we bought it from who advised he doesn't service these now - but would stop by in the morning to check it out. So - for now - I'm on the PC. Which isn't all bad.
Hide and seek. How often do we play that game in our lives. How many times do we 'shut down' and 'black out' when our spouse or children talk with us about something and we don't want to listen? Ok - guilty here as well. I think we call it 'selective hearing', don't we? How often, when we don't want to hear things, we close our ears to what is being said - regardless of who is saying it?
When God is directly talking to you - what do you do? Are you shutting down and blacking out so you don't have to listen to what He says? Trust me, if you want to hear anyone, you want to hear God speak! I encourage you to listen carefully! Hide His Word in your heart and meditate on it. Don't play 'hide and seek' with God - you will always lose.
Open my eyes, Lord, I want to see Jesus,
to reach out and touch Him,
to say that I love Him.
Open my ears, Lord, help me to listen,
open my eyes, Lord,
I want to see Jesus.
Blessings!
Hide and seek. How often do we play that game in our lives. How many times do we 'shut down' and 'black out' when our spouse or children talk with us about something and we don't want to listen? Ok - guilty here as well. I think we call it 'selective hearing', don't we? How often, when we don't want to hear things, we close our ears to what is being said - regardless of who is saying it?
When God is directly talking to you - what do you do? Are you shutting down and blacking out so you don't have to listen to what He says? Trust me, if you want to hear anyone, you want to hear God speak! I encourage you to listen carefully! Hide His Word in your heart and meditate on it. Don't play 'hide and seek' with God - you will always lose.
Open my eyes, Lord, I want to see Jesus,
to reach out and touch Him,
to say that I love Him.
Open my ears, Lord, help me to listen,
open my eyes, Lord,
I want to see Jesus.
Blessings!
Monday, November 7, 2011
Dreary Days like today....
makes me happy I don't have to go out into the cold and wet weather to go to work. I know I will eventually have to find a job and go out in it - but for today, I'm content to be inside. At least for awhile. This afternoon I may venture out and head over to JoAnn Fabrics - want to get some material to make quilts. I'm loving having the time to do things I enjoy doing.
On days like this I like to curl up before the fire, with my blankie and a good book, and read. Or sit and sew on a quilt. Or even watch a good chick flick. This is my 'mellow weather'. Baking cookies is also a lot of fun on cool days like this.
I love these days when I can just be quiet and think about God's goodness. I keep thinking about the message given at North Hills Church yesterday - about looking at our measure versus our mission. Am I going to achieve only what I think I can..... or am I going to complete the mission that only God can help me do?
What about you? What do you like to do on cold, rainy days? Read a good book, bake a bunch a cookies, curl up with a good movie? What brings you pleasure on days like this?
Do you take time to find God in it? Just wondering.
Blessings!
On days like this I like to curl up before the fire, with my blankie and a good book, and read. Or sit and sew on a quilt. Or even watch a good chick flick. This is my 'mellow weather'. Baking cookies is also a lot of fun on cool days like this.
I love these days when I can just be quiet and think about God's goodness. I keep thinking about the message given at North Hills Church yesterday - about looking at our measure versus our mission. Am I going to achieve only what I think I can..... or am I going to complete the mission that only God can help me do?
What about you? What do you like to do on cold, rainy days? Read a good book, bake a bunch a cookies, curl up with a good movie? What brings you pleasure on days like this?
Do you take time to find God in it? Just wondering.
Blessings!
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Preparation
The pastor of the church we currently attend called yesterday and asked if I would serve communion at our service tomorrow. I agreed to do communion, as I enjoy sharing with the congregation about Jesus' sacrifice for us. He gave up everything - His very life - as a sacrifice so that we can live and have eternal life.
As I thought about what I could share, I was reminded of a few illustrations I have read recently. One that I may end up using is just the statement in a book by Tommy Tenney, "Preparation mirrors the importance of the visit".
Think about how much preparation goes into a World Series, or a Rose Bowl Game, or when it is announced the President of the United States or even a dignitary is arriving in a certain city. It is enormous what debt will be incurred just to prepare for this visit! What about when your daughter gets married and wants a lavish wedding. Not only the wedding itself, but think of the preparation your daughter will do just to prepare herself for her wedding day.
When Jesus came to earth, He was born in a stable and placed in a manger. Certainly no grand preparations for such a King. As He begin to preach and go about the countryside to heal and to preach, no grand preparations were made for Him. That wasn't what He came for. He came to set us free from all the trappings of traditions and restrictions we put upon ourselves. There is nothing wrong with celebrations. It is how we use and make of those preparations. Are the preparations our focus? Jesus prepared Himself for death on the cross. He had a relationship with His Father, He knew the way He was to walk, and He did it willingly. He knew where He was headed, and He was prepared to die, to be our sacrifice.
In Kyle Idleman's book 'Not a Fan' he asks the question - "are you a follower of Jesus - or are you a fan?" (paraphrased - I didn't look up the specific quote) I choose to be a follower of Jesus. I choose to prepare myself for His visit with me, today and every day. I choose to prepare for His Homecoming, when He comes to get His Bride, the Church.
No, I don't intend to say all this when it is time for communion tomorrow. It is just some thoughts that have come to me as I ponder the statement "Preparation mirrors the importance of the visit". Jesus' visit is important to me. I'm going to prepare myself anew daily to receive Him.
Jesus came - and died on a cross - so that we can live. When He comes to visit with you today, what preparation have you made for Him? Do you have a place where you can be quiet and sit before Him and lavish your love on Him? Have you blocked time to just sit awhile and visit? Or have you found yourself so busy from the moment your feet hit the floor that you have no time for Him. Yeah, a statement. Unfortunately, that is many people's excuse for not spending time with Jesus. No time. Yet there seems to be time for everything else.
What are you doing to prepare for Jesus' visit with you today?
Blessings!
As I thought about what I could share, I was reminded of a few illustrations I have read recently. One that I may end up using is just the statement in a book by Tommy Tenney, "Preparation mirrors the importance of the visit".
Think about how much preparation goes into a World Series, or a Rose Bowl Game, or when it is announced the President of the United States or even a dignitary is arriving in a certain city. It is enormous what debt will be incurred just to prepare for this visit! What about when your daughter gets married and wants a lavish wedding. Not only the wedding itself, but think of the preparation your daughter will do just to prepare herself for her wedding day.
When Jesus came to earth, He was born in a stable and placed in a manger. Certainly no grand preparations for such a King. As He begin to preach and go about the countryside to heal and to preach, no grand preparations were made for Him. That wasn't what He came for. He came to set us free from all the trappings of traditions and restrictions we put upon ourselves. There is nothing wrong with celebrations. It is how we use and make of those preparations. Are the preparations our focus? Jesus prepared Himself for death on the cross. He had a relationship with His Father, He knew the way He was to walk, and He did it willingly. He knew where He was headed, and He was prepared to die, to be our sacrifice.
In Kyle Idleman's book 'Not a Fan' he asks the question - "are you a follower of Jesus - or are you a fan?" (paraphrased - I didn't look up the specific quote) I choose to be a follower of Jesus. I choose to prepare myself for His visit with me, today and every day. I choose to prepare for His Homecoming, when He comes to get His Bride, the Church.
No, I don't intend to say all this when it is time for communion tomorrow. It is just some thoughts that have come to me as I ponder the statement "Preparation mirrors the importance of the visit". Jesus' visit is important to me. I'm going to prepare myself anew daily to receive Him.
Jesus came - and died on a cross - so that we can live. When He comes to visit with you today, what preparation have you made for Him? Do you have a place where you can be quiet and sit before Him and lavish your love on Him? Have you blocked time to just sit awhile and visit? Or have you found yourself so busy from the moment your feet hit the floor that you have no time for Him. Yeah, a statement. Unfortunately, that is many people's excuse for not spending time with Jesus. No time. Yet there seems to be time for everything else.
What are you doing to prepare for Jesus' visit with you today?
Blessings!
Friday, November 4, 2011
Obedience
I had lunch with my daughter yesterday, just the two of us. Something we haven't been able to do in a long, long time. We both enjoyed being together and sharing things going on in our lives. For me to share, this week has been life-changing. After all, this has been my first week of "retirement" from MCP. What have I done?
Three mornings I have walked (two mornings over six miles!). I prepared for my Bible class on Tuesdays. I cleared some emails. Added to my blog. Had a meeting yesterday afternoon. Met my daughter for lunch. Did some shopping. Had a dentist appointment. Got my mammogram done. Got a haircut. Spent longer times in my quiet time. Started preparing for a message I will give up at Pioneer Village later this month. Spent more time praying. Tom and I have talked - a lot. Hmmm, can't think of anything else. But it has only been 4 full days! Today we worked out at the gym and now I am getting ready to meeting a dear friend for lunch. Sounds like a fun life, doesn't it?!
It's good, but, I can't live out the rest of my life this way. I need to keep my mind active and my body busy. Shopping isn't classified as exercise - and I don't always enjoy it anyway. Especially when there is nothing anyone needs and then what is the purpose of going shopping? I may need to find a job before January! LOL My co-worker told me before she left I may be working at Starbucks by today. She knows me better than I thought!
But, back to my original thought on 'obedience'. Tuesday night in our Bible study we were discussing some problems within our marriages (not specific, but general). I was able to share my thoughts (totally off the lesson) that it doesn't matter how we feel about the issue on who is right or who is wrong - or if the entire issue is right and we just don't agree - it only has one line - is it in obedience to God? Is our behavior and response pleasing to God? Unless it is abuse or wrong, we are to be obedient (and submit) to what God tells us. His Word is our 'rule book'. If in doubt - check it out! There are all kinds of circumstances in the Bible and God gives us His 'so that' and 'therefore' to help us.
It isn't just obedience to our parents, spouse, or teachers, or bosses - it is obedience to God. There is no gray line. You are either obedient or you are not. I must confess I sometimes struggle in the obedience area, but I am trying very hard. Remember my blog on honoring my husband and honoring God - and getting my hair cut because my husband didn't like it? Well, he still didn't like it. So, on Wednesday, I again went and had my hair cut again and now have bangs - which my husband DOES like. In doing what pleases him, I have pleased God. And that is good.
Sometimes our children (or spouse) don't respond in obedience as quickly as we want them to. Is that being disobedient? That depends on you and how you look at it. Some of my grandchildren respond immediately to their parents' requests. Some ignore their parents completely - or whine all the way. Isn't that the way we respond to God? Sometimes we jump right on whatever God is showing us to do, even when we don't know what to do. Sometimes we just ignore Him, pretend He didn't tell us anything. Sometimes we do it, but begrudgingly, whining that we have to do it.
God wants to bless us. He wants to give us our hearts' desires. It is our disobedience that keeps Him from acting on our behalf. His Word says 'do this, ....so that'. We are such a stubborn people! Intent in getting our own way! When we are obedient, He always blesses us. Stop and look at what God has done for you. Be sure to thank Him! Has He been providing for you? Do you have food to eat and a place to live? Are you healthy? These are blessings!
What is your obedience level with God? Do you see a lot of dis-obedience? Make a commitment to God that you will be obedient in every area of your life to Him. Give Him your best - that is all He asks for.
Blessings!
Three mornings I have walked (two mornings over six miles!). I prepared for my Bible class on Tuesdays. I cleared some emails. Added to my blog. Had a meeting yesterday afternoon. Met my daughter for lunch. Did some shopping. Had a dentist appointment. Got my mammogram done. Got a haircut. Spent longer times in my quiet time. Started preparing for a message I will give up at Pioneer Village later this month. Spent more time praying. Tom and I have talked - a lot. Hmmm, can't think of anything else. But it has only been 4 full days! Today we worked out at the gym and now I am getting ready to meeting a dear friend for lunch. Sounds like a fun life, doesn't it?!
It's good, but, I can't live out the rest of my life this way. I need to keep my mind active and my body busy. Shopping isn't classified as exercise - and I don't always enjoy it anyway. Especially when there is nothing anyone needs and then what is the purpose of going shopping? I may need to find a job before January! LOL My co-worker told me before she left I may be working at Starbucks by today. She knows me better than I thought!
But, back to my original thought on 'obedience'. Tuesday night in our Bible study we were discussing some problems within our marriages (not specific, but general). I was able to share my thoughts (totally off the lesson) that it doesn't matter how we feel about the issue on who is right or who is wrong - or if the entire issue is right and we just don't agree - it only has one line - is it in obedience to God? Is our behavior and response pleasing to God? Unless it is abuse or wrong, we are to be obedient (and submit) to what God tells us. His Word is our 'rule book'. If in doubt - check it out! There are all kinds of circumstances in the Bible and God gives us His 'so that' and 'therefore' to help us.
It isn't just obedience to our parents, spouse, or teachers, or bosses - it is obedience to God. There is no gray line. You are either obedient or you are not. I must confess I sometimes struggle in the obedience area, but I am trying very hard. Remember my blog on honoring my husband and honoring God - and getting my hair cut because my husband didn't like it? Well, he still didn't like it. So, on Wednesday, I again went and had my hair cut again and now have bangs - which my husband DOES like. In doing what pleases him, I have pleased God. And that is good.
Sometimes our children (or spouse) don't respond in obedience as quickly as we want them to. Is that being disobedient? That depends on you and how you look at it. Some of my grandchildren respond immediately to their parents' requests. Some ignore their parents completely - or whine all the way. Isn't that the way we respond to God? Sometimes we jump right on whatever God is showing us to do, even when we don't know what to do. Sometimes we just ignore Him, pretend He didn't tell us anything. Sometimes we do it, but begrudgingly, whining that we have to do it.
God wants to bless us. He wants to give us our hearts' desires. It is our disobedience that keeps Him from acting on our behalf. His Word says 'do this, ....so that'. We are such a stubborn people! Intent in getting our own way! When we are obedient, He always blesses us. Stop and look at what God has done for you. Be sure to thank Him! Has He been providing for you? Do you have food to eat and a place to live? Are you healthy? These are blessings!
What is your obedience level with God? Do you see a lot of dis-obedience? Make a commitment to God that you will be obedient in every area of your life to Him. Give Him your best - that is all He asks for.
Blessings!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Tom's thoughts......
Tom and I have had many conversations the past few months regarding a certain area of our lives. We have had agreements and disagreements on it during our discussions. Every time we come into agreement, someone says something or does something that makes us step back to ponder that decision, and to wonder if it is the right one at this time.
This morning we were talking after our quiet times with God, and Tom shared something that came to him during his time with God. He said that there were two train tracks at a train station. Each track had a railroad car on it, with the door open. One railroad car had one name on it, and the other railroad car, another name. He was standing inside one car with the door open staring at the other car. The other car was chugging and getting ready to move; the conductor was yelling "all aboard". The car Tom stood in just couldn't get up steam enough to even move. He kept looking at the other car and trying to making a decision what to do. If he was going to get to his destination, he needed to move. Tom said he jumped out of the one car and ran to the other, getting inside just before the door shut and it chugged on down the track, leaving the other open railroad car standing still.
He compared this to a decision we have wrestled with for some time. Do we want to stay inside the railroad car that isn't moving and no one else is in - or do we want to jump on board in the railroad car that is full and chugging along full steam?
I feel it is inevitable on what our final decision will be. We feel sad that if we change cars what will happen ..... but then, on the other hand, perhaps it is not "our job" to shovel the coal in this car any longer. We don't see anyone jumping out of the car to see why it isn't chugging. We don't know of anyone looking to see how to make it run. Unfortunately, we do see someone cutting cables and slowing/stopping progress of getting the car going. So what to do and when to do it is still the topic of our conversations. Stay tuned on this one.
So what is going on with you? What is God showing you in your questions to Him? Has He given you a vision or thoughts of 'what if'? Do you just keep asking Him, waiting for Him to smack the back of your head and say "NOW" or "YES" or "NO" or "STOP THAT!!"? Wouldn't it be much easier to ask God a question and then just sit back and wait for His answer?
Unfortunately, it doesn't work that way always. Sometimes we know the answer, but we want confirmation from Him that 1) it is the right answer or 2) we know it is the wrong answer but we want His approval on it anyway. Get into His Word and He will show you the answer. You just have to 'look for it'.
Blessings!
This morning we were talking after our quiet times with God, and Tom shared something that came to him during his time with God. He said that there were two train tracks at a train station. Each track had a railroad car on it, with the door open. One railroad car had one name on it, and the other railroad car, another name. He was standing inside one car with the door open staring at the other car. The other car was chugging and getting ready to move; the conductor was yelling "all aboard". The car Tom stood in just couldn't get up steam enough to even move. He kept looking at the other car and trying to making a decision what to do. If he was going to get to his destination, he needed to move. Tom said he jumped out of the one car and ran to the other, getting inside just before the door shut and it chugged on down the track, leaving the other open railroad car standing still.
He compared this to a decision we have wrestled with for some time. Do we want to stay inside the railroad car that isn't moving and no one else is in - or do we want to jump on board in the railroad car that is full and chugging along full steam?
I feel it is inevitable on what our final decision will be. We feel sad that if we change cars what will happen ..... but then, on the other hand, perhaps it is not "our job" to shovel the coal in this car any longer. We don't see anyone jumping out of the car to see why it isn't chugging. We don't know of anyone looking to see how to make it run. Unfortunately, we do see someone cutting cables and slowing/stopping progress of getting the car going. So what to do and when to do it is still the topic of our conversations. Stay tuned on this one.
So what is going on with you? What is God showing you in your questions to Him? Has He given you a vision or thoughts of 'what if'? Do you just keep asking Him, waiting for Him to smack the back of your head and say "NOW" or "YES" or "NO" or "STOP THAT!!"? Wouldn't it be much easier to ask God a question and then just sit back and wait for His answer?
Unfortunately, it doesn't work that way always. Sometimes we know the answer, but we want confirmation from Him that 1) it is the right answer or 2) we know it is the wrong answer but we want His approval on it anyway. Get into His Word and He will show you the answer. You just have to 'look for it'.
Blessings!
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Perceptions
Tom and I walked around five miles today along the canal, getting in some walking exercise. As we walked, we noticed a very large cat climb a fence - and just sit there. Now this cat was huge - to the point, my perception it could have been a CAT, like in BOBcat. We were several yards from it, and I wasn't about to go any closer to investigate further! On our way back I looked for it - and found it. Same spot. When it saw us, it stood up and stretched over a block (fence). It still looked huge. I still didn't investigate. It was either a really large cat and my perception enlarged it - or it it was just a 'cat' looking to stretch out on a block fence.
Sometimes that is like our perspective on life. When things are going good - our jobs are secure, money is in the bank, bills are paid, everyone is healthy..... we see kittens everywhere. Life is good.
But when things are tough, where we aren't sure daily if we will have a job or not (or don't have one), money in the bank is more in the red than it is in the black, at least a month behind in bills, and someone is sick and needs to go to the doctor - or hospital...... we see huge bobcats everywhere. Life is tough.
It is in our perspective of our lives - and where we are in them - that determine how we look at life.
There is Someone who walks with us in both the good times, and the tough times. His Name is the Name above ALL Names, the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords. His Name is JESUS. There is no greater Friend, nor greater Name.
When we know Jesus intimately, we are confident that all things will work for His good, that He is holding our hand, granting us wisdom, giving us blessings and helping us to hang on. When we don't know Him intimately, life can be pretty scary and lonely.
Ephesians 2:8-10
Sometimes that is like our perspective on life. When things are going good - our jobs are secure, money is in the bank, bills are paid, everyone is healthy..... we see kittens everywhere. Life is good.
But when things are tough, where we aren't sure daily if we will have a job or not (or don't have one), money in the bank is more in the red than it is in the black, at least a month behind in bills, and someone is sick and needs to go to the doctor - or hospital...... we see huge bobcats everywhere. Life is tough.
It is in our perspective of our lives - and where we are in them - that determine how we look at life.
There is Someone who walks with us in both the good times, and the tough times. His Name is the Name above ALL Names, the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords. His Name is JESUS. There is no greater Friend, nor greater Name.
When we know Jesus intimately, we are confident that all things will work for His good, that He is holding our hand, granting us wisdom, giving us blessings and helping us to hang on. When we don't know Him intimately, life can be pretty scary and lonely.
Ephesians 2:8-10
New King James Version (NKJV)
8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.
Where are you at? What is your perspective on life right now? Are things going well enough that you feel confident that you can get through it all by yourself? My question to you is, why would you want to go through any part of life - alone?
Do you need to change your perspective? Try Jesus!
Blessings!
Where are you at? What is your perspective on life right now? Are things going well enough that you feel confident that you can get through it all by yourself? My question to you is, why would you want to go through any part of life - alone?
Do you need to change your perspective? Try Jesus!
Blessings!
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