I'm looking forward to 2012 - no, I don't have a job yet, but I am trusting in God that He will provide just what He wants me to have, to do. If He doesn't bring something, then I feel He wants me to focus on what I am doing at church and forget about work. He will provide all that we need, financially and other wise. Yeah, I trust Him that much.
I need to finish up my next email to the church on our '2012 first fruit fast' that I am suggesting we as a church do. I think I've mentioned it before on here. I believe that when we fast and pray - regardless of when it is - and focus on God, He will take care of everything. This is a new concept for us - fasting for the first 21 days of the year. I can't wait to share what God is going to do in and through us - and not only us, but through our families, through our church, through our communities.
Are you thinking of joining us for our 2012 first fruit fast? You can fast different ways - give up a meal a day and spend time praying; specific foods for the 21 days; give up food one day a week; - the key component in all of this is to focus upon God in worship and praise. It isn't all about 'gimme gimme' if we fast - it is what is His desire. Period. What does He want to do in us and through us. Period. In fact, it isn't even about us. We are just His empty vessels to be used by Him. Will put more information out before Sunday.
Blessings!
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Feeling better!
I guess you were probably surprised I haven't added anything for a couple days - yeah, me too. Christmas I meant to - but with all the festivities, did not. Christmas Eve I had awakened with a sore throat, but it was gone before evening. Sang at the Christmas Eve services with the worship team. Christmas morning I got up sneezing - and continued through out the day - by 2AM I woke up coughing and have been doing that ever since! Upped my olive leaf extract to boost my immune system, and started taking cough syrup. A friend reminded me to take massive doses of vitamin C (which I have in powdered form) and vitamin D3. Which I have done - and after sleeping all afternoon yesterday, and again all night until nearly 7AM this morning - (waking periodically throughout the night and praying for healing of my body) - I am feeling much better than I was! God is answering my prayers for healing, for sure!
Our Christmas was awesome. Tom surprised me with a beautiful necklace and a 'love letter' for my treasure box, plus several other things. My children and their families gave me wonderful gifts too. I am truly blessed and enjoyed so much the day with everyone. I loved seeing the surprised look on the children - and grandchildren's faces on some of the gifts! I usually search high and low for special things for them - and I think this year I may have succeeded on some.
With not feeling well yesterday, other than exchanging Tricia's footed pjs and taking the new ones to her, I stayed home and laid on the couch all day. I did finish one book on the kindle. Now Tom can download some books and start using it - if he wants to. I'm in the middle of another book on the Nook. I received a gift card for Family Christian as I want to purchase a new Bible - may go get it today. A very dear pastor friend mentioned one time that each year he reads through a new Bible - and gives away his old one to someone who needs one. Yes, it is usually marked up throughout the year - but, why not? (BTW - one pastor said that if you don't want to mark up your Bible, then buy one that you won't mind marking up!) With that thought in mind a couple years ago - I started reading through the Bible as well. I'm nearly at the end of the one I'm reading through now - and am looking forward to starting a new one January 1. Different versions help bring out either questions or confirm answers to different things.
Did I ever tell you the story of....... several years ago I was in my quiet time and was on my knees praying. I was crying out to God for our finances, which were in desperate straits. I usually keep two or three versions of the Bible close by me, and in my desperation for a Word from the Lord, I grabbed one and began to flip through it, wishing that I could just stop and point and that would be my answer, and yet knowing that wasn't the way to do it. As I flipped through the pages (since it was a fairly new Bible, nothing had been highlighted or marked in this Bible), in bold print I read: Don't worry, Pray, Tell God, Thank Him, Experience God's Peace.
Of course that wasn't the entire scripture, but that is what I read. Here it is in its entirety:
Philippians 4:6-7
6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. (NLT)
I knew that was exactly what I needed to hear and it brought great joy to my heart. The next day, I was curious what it would say in the NIV version, since I used it more often. I had to start laughing - did you know that God has a sense of humor? I had not only highlighted it in the NIV Bible, but I had memorized it! If I had picked up my NIV, I would have missed it. I would have seen the highlighted portion and passed it on by. Here it is in the NIV version:
Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Are you in need of hearing 'Don't Worry, Pray, Tell God, Thank Him, Experience God's Peace' this morning? 2012 is quickly approaching - are you already thinking of the problems it will bring - or of the blessings you will be receiving from God's hand?
Blessings!
Our Christmas was awesome. Tom surprised me with a beautiful necklace and a 'love letter' for my treasure box, plus several other things. My children and their families gave me wonderful gifts too. I am truly blessed and enjoyed so much the day with everyone. I loved seeing the surprised look on the children - and grandchildren's faces on some of the gifts! I usually search high and low for special things for them - and I think this year I may have succeeded on some.
With not feeling well yesterday, other than exchanging Tricia's footed pjs and taking the new ones to her, I stayed home and laid on the couch all day. I did finish one book on the kindle. Now Tom can download some books and start using it - if he wants to. I'm in the middle of another book on the Nook. I received a gift card for Family Christian as I want to purchase a new Bible - may go get it today. A very dear pastor friend mentioned one time that each year he reads through a new Bible - and gives away his old one to someone who needs one. Yes, it is usually marked up throughout the year - but, why not? (BTW - one pastor said that if you don't want to mark up your Bible, then buy one that you won't mind marking up!) With that thought in mind a couple years ago - I started reading through the Bible as well. I'm nearly at the end of the one I'm reading through now - and am looking forward to starting a new one January 1. Different versions help bring out either questions or confirm answers to different things.
Did I ever tell you the story of....... several years ago I was in my quiet time and was on my knees praying. I was crying out to God for our finances, which were in desperate straits. I usually keep two or three versions of the Bible close by me, and in my desperation for a Word from the Lord, I grabbed one and began to flip through it, wishing that I could just stop and point and that would be my answer, and yet knowing that wasn't the way to do it. As I flipped through the pages (since it was a fairly new Bible, nothing had been highlighted or marked in this Bible), in bold print I read: Don't worry, Pray, Tell God, Thank Him, Experience God's Peace.
Of course that wasn't the entire scripture, but that is what I read. Here it is in its entirety:
Philippians 4:6-7
6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. (NLT)
I knew that was exactly what I needed to hear and it brought great joy to my heart. The next day, I was curious what it would say in the NIV version, since I used it more often. I had to start laughing - did you know that God has a sense of humor? I had not only highlighted it in the NIV Bible, but I had memorized it! If I had picked up my NIV, I would have missed it. I would have seen the highlighted portion and passed it on by. Here it is in the NIV version:
Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Are you in need of hearing 'Don't Worry, Pray, Tell God, Thank Him, Experience God's Peace' this morning? 2012 is quickly approaching - are you already thinking of the problems it will bring - or of the blessings you will be receiving from God's hand?
Blessings!
Saturday, December 24, 2011
It's Christmas Eve!
Ok - here is where I start getting excited about Christmas! I mean, I already was looking forward to the day, and all the Christmas festivities, but I don't get crazy about it...... until today! Tomorrow I get to see the faces of my grandchildren - and children - when they open their special gifts. I've done some different things this year - it will be interesting to see what kind of 'impact' it will have on them. Just trying to pique the interest of my children who read this! Wait until you see what Santa has brought you!
All my shopping is completed, the baking done, all my wrapping is done.... and now I am at the 'I just can't wait stage"! Oh, I guess I still need to make my pineapple cheese ball for Tricia - she has asked for it for Christmas. Silly girl. I know she loves it, and I am happy to make it for her. I'll get it made up this afternoon so that it will be perfect for tomorrow.
We attend our Christmas Eve service tonight at 5:30 - I get to sing with the worship team! How cool is that! I love to sing praises to our King - and what more perfect way to celebrate His birthday than singing carols of worship! I wonder if I could dare to pray for a better voice to praise Him with... naw, He made my voice the way He wanted it.... He didn't say 'sing to Him with a good voice', He said to "make a joyful noise unto the Lord". Joyful noise. That I can do! What about you?
I was writing out my prayers this morning and what I am going to ask God for during my fast at the beginning of the year. Did you know that He really does want you to ask for things? Well, perhaps not material things, but perhaps better attitudes, humbleness, gentle spirit, freedom from gossip, financial blessings - and many others. These things He would love to help you with! If you are thinking of fasting with us at the first of the year, begin to think what you would like to change in you, and make a list of those things, and of family members needs as well. Be confident of this, if you pray with a sincere heart, He will hear you and just may grant you the request!
As you are rushing about today to finish that last minute shopping, the last minute gift card, the last minute item from the grocery store, don't forget to take possibly that 'last minute' to thank God for the birth of His Holy Son, Jesus, Who came to die, that we can have enternal life with Him.
Blessings!
All my shopping is completed, the baking done, all my wrapping is done.... and now I am at the 'I just can't wait stage"! Oh, I guess I still need to make my pineapple cheese ball for Tricia - she has asked for it for Christmas. Silly girl. I know she loves it, and I am happy to make it for her. I'll get it made up this afternoon so that it will be perfect for tomorrow.
We attend our Christmas Eve service tonight at 5:30 - I get to sing with the worship team! How cool is that! I love to sing praises to our King - and what more perfect way to celebrate His birthday than singing carols of worship! I wonder if I could dare to pray for a better voice to praise Him with... naw, He made my voice the way He wanted it.... He didn't say 'sing to Him with a good voice', He said to "make a joyful noise unto the Lord". Joyful noise. That I can do! What about you?
I was writing out my prayers this morning and what I am going to ask God for during my fast at the beginning of the year. Did you know that He really does want you to ask for things? Well, perhaps not material things, but perhaps better attitudes, humbleness, gentle spirit, freedom from gossip, financial blessings - and many others. These things He would love to help you with! If you are thinking of fasting with us at the first of the year, begin to think what you would like to change in you, and make a list of those things, and of family members needs as well. Be confident of this, if you pray with a sincere heart, He will hear you and just may grant you the request!
As you are rushing about today to finish that last minute shopping, the last minute gift card, the last minute item from the grocery store, don't forget to take possibly that 'last minute' to thank God for the birth of His Holy Son, Jesus, Who came to die, that we can have enternal life with Him.
Blessings!
Friday, December 23, 2011
Challenges and other thoughts...
Two days before Christmas and all my purchases have been made and all but one or two have been wrapped! I believe this is the first time ever that has happened! Although I had been baking a lot, then realized I didn't need to - it has still been a challenge. What has? Eating all this good stuff! Well, tasty good, not necessarily good for me! I do love baking and giving it away. And today, my Princess Bethany is coming over to bake and do our 'Christmas thing' together. This has always been the highlight of my year with the grandchildren - them coming over to bake. Now that this one is on her own, didn't know if she would still want to come - but she is and it makes me happy she still wants to. At least this year! She has come to grandma's house since she was about 2 years old to make crafts and/or bake cookies every Christmas.
Another challenge is getting my body is shape for the upcoming mini-marathon in 5 months. Yes, it is 5 months away, but I can not wait until the week before to plan on training for it. It has been about six weeks since we had walked so after walking nearly 4 miles the other day, my hip joints are feeling it some. Not bad, but I acknowledge there is some discomfort. I'm still walking and still pushing to get in shape. For my retirement, my little sissy had sent me the Nike sensor and the shoes it goes in - I love it. I would encourage you to get one if you want to track how far and how fast you are walking. At this time, my personal best pace time is 15.02. Got to improve on that if I'm going to do this! Well, not IF, for we have paid for it and we are going to do it and we are going to finish it! Would appreciate any encouragement and prayers for this!
Another challenge - which is not really a challenge - is I am leading our church in a 21 day fast beginning on January 1, 2012. Not a total fast, but a partial fast. I will give more details later. Why are we doing this? We are to give God the first-fruits of all we receive - why don't we give Him back the first-fruits of the year? I am so excited, in a sense, to do this - for I know that God is going to honor the church in seeking His face and His will for our families, our church, and our community. I ask that you think about this and see if you also are called to a fast - to give back to God the first-fruits of the year. Yes, I read about this in a book by Jentezel Franklin - and it makes a lot of sense to me. See what God says about it in Malachi 3:
8“ Will a man rob God?
Yet you have robbed Me!
But you say,
‘ In what way have we robbed You?’
In tithes and offerings.
9 You are cursed with a curse,
For you have robbed Me,
Even this whole nation.
10 Bring all the tithes into the storehouse,
That there may be food in My house,
And try Me now in this,”
Says the LORD of hosts,
“ If I will not open for you the windows of heaven
And pour out for you such blessing
That there will not be room enough to receive it.
11“ And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes,
So that he will not destroy the fruit of your ground,
Nor shall the vine fail to bear fruit for you in the field,”
Says the LORD of hosts;
12 And all nations will call you blessed,
For you will be a delightful land,”
Says the LORD of hosts.
------------------
I am believing and trusting in God that when we bring the first of everything to Him, He will in turn bless us and our households.
What about you - want to receive a blessing from God this coming year that will affect you all year? Think about giving something up - something that means something to you. If it doesn't mean anything to you to give it up, it won't mean anything to God.
Blessings!
Another challenge is getting my body is shape for the upcoming mini-marathon in 5 months. Yes, it is 5 months away, but I can not wait until the week before to plan on training for it. It has been about six weeks since we had walked so after walking nearly 4 miles the other day, my hip joints are feeling it some. Not bad, but I acknowledge there is some discomfort. I'm still walking and still pushing to get in shape. For my retirement, my little sissy had sent me the Nike sensor and the shoes it goes in - I love it. I would encourage you to get one if you want to track how far and how fast you are walking. At this time, my personal best pace time is 15.02. Got to improve on that if I'm going to do this! Well, not IF, for we have paid for it and we are going to do it and we are going to finish it! Would appreciate any encouragement and prayers for this!
Another challenge - which is not really a challenge - is I am leading our church in a 21 day fast beginning on January 1, 2012. Not a total fast, but a partial fast. I will give more details later. Why are we doing this? We are to give God the first-fruits of all we receive - why don't we give Him back the first-fruits of the year? I am so excited, in a sense, to do this - for I know that God is going to honor the church in seeking His face and His will for our families, our church, and our community. I ask that you think about this and see if you also are called to a fast - to give back to God the first-fruits of the year. Yes, I read about this in a book by Jentezel Franklin - and it makes a lot of sense to me. See what God says about it in Malachi 3:
8“ Will a man rob God?
Yet you have robbed Me!
But you say,
‘ In what way have we robbed You?’
In tithes and offerings.
9 You are cursed with a curse,
For you have robbed Me,
Even this whole nation.
10 Bring all the tithes into the storehouse,
That there may be food in My house,
And try Me now in this,”
Says the LORD of hosts,
“ If I will not open for you the windows of heaven
And pour out for you such blessing
That there will not be room enough to receive it.
11“ And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes,
So that he will not destroy the fruit of your ground,
Nor shall the vine fail to bear fruit for you in the field,”
Says the LORD of hosts;
12 And all nations will call you blessed,
For you will be a delightful land,”
Says the LORD of hosts.
------------------
I am believing and trusting in God that when we bring the first of everything to Him, He will in turn bless us and our households.
What about you - want to receive a blessing from God this coming year that will affect you all year? Think about giving something up - something that means something to you. If it doesn't mean anything to you to give it up, it won't mean anything to God.
Blessings!
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Four days before Christmas....
and the majority of my baking is completed - mainly because I didn't have to bake as much as before since I am not working at the office. Of course I am sure that they would be more than happy to take it all off my hands! My plans are to do some baking after Christmas just for them - and take down to the office. I had planned to attend a department Christmas party, but they changed the date, and I was unable to go. My loss, for I have heard about the fun they have! So, if I am not employed in January, I may take some goodies down to them - they will be ready to refill their sugar addiction. :-)
Our 5 year old grandson has a 'concert' this afternoon at school. This child is so adorable! Not that all my grandchildren aren't - but David is beyond cute! I love his expressions, his excitement, his love for others. He brings everyone joy. I can't wait to see him in his concert!
I signed Tom and I up for the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon (13.1 miles) in Indianapolis next May. Now we need to do two things - 1) get airline tickets to fly back cheap - and 2) TRAIN! We started training this morning and I went almost 4 miles at 15.03 mi/pace. I love my Nike shoes my sissy sent me for retirement - plus the sensor that tracks my distance, time, pace, etc on my ipod. Since I have already confessed I haven't walked since the first week of November, I know that I am going to be sore in the morning - if not later tonight! Especially since I kicked up the incline .5 - get that extra muscle working! I understand at the mini-marathon there is a bus that stops for stragglers who can't keep pace - and I am not about to find my name on one of those seats! I'm a winner and will complete it on my own two feet!
A friend of mine has e-published a book - both on kindle and nook. "A Year From the Heart of David" by David Mize. Check it out. I've only read a few, but I am enjoying them. It is a devotional of 365 days. Very simple thoughts; nothing complex, yet it speaks to your heart. David is a special friend, and I'm proud to promote his devotional. So - if you have a kindle or a Nook - please check it out!
It's been a busy day already. I've been able to get things done I wanted to, and what I needed to get done. My granddaughter is in town so am hoping she can come over later this afternoon and bake some cookies. I'm baking some cookies now so that Tom can take with him when he gets a haircut this afternoon. I still need to make salsa, and to finish up on the bread and butter pickles, but I still have Friday that isn't filled with things to do.
Here it is four days before Christmas - and what are you doing? Are all your gifts purchased and wrapped or are you busy making plans to head out again? I truly feel God has blessed me with this time off to rest and to enjoy this time. I'm enjoying my days and can truly say only one day did I feel 'bored' and that was a Sunday afternoon! I hope you take some time during this time before the new year begins and evaluate what was important to you in 2011 and what will you want to accomplish in 2012.
In a later blog, I will share with you how Tom and I are going to begin 2012. I would love to hear your plans as well.
Blessings!
Our 5 year old grandson has a 'concert' this afternoon at school. This child is so adorable! Not that all my grandchildren aren't - but David is beyond cute! I love his expressions, his excitement, his love for others. He brings everyone joy. I can't wait to see him in his concert!
I signed Tom and I up for the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon (13.1 miles) in Indianapolis next May. Now we need to do two things - 1) get airline tickets to fly back cheap - and 2) TRAIN! We started training this morning and I went almost 4 miles at 15.03 mi/pace. I love my Nike shoes my sissy sent me for retirement - plus the sensor that tracks my distance, time, pace, etc on my ipod. Since I have already confessed I haven't walked since the first week of November, I know that I am going to be sore in the morning - if not later tonight! Especially since I kicked up the incline .5 - get that extra muscle working! I understand at the mini-marathon there is a bus that stops for stragglers who can't keep pace - and I am not about to find my name on one of those seats! I'm a winner and will complete it on my own two feet!
A friend of mine has e-published a book - both on kindle and nook. "A Year From the Heart of David" by David Mize. Check it out. I've only read a few, but I am enjoying them. It is a devotional of 365 days. Very simple thoughts; nothing complex, yet it speaks to your heart. David is a special friend, and I'm proud to promote his devotional. So - if you have a kindle or a Nook - please check it out!
It's been a busy day already. I've been able to get things done I wanted to, and what I needed to get done. My granddaughter is in town so am hoping she can come over later this afternoon and bake some cookies. I'm baking some cookies now so that Tom can take with him when he gets a haircut this afternoon. I still need to make salsa, and to finish up on the bread and butter pickles, but I still have Friday that isn't filled with things to do.
Here it is four days before Christmas - and what are you doing? Are all your gifts purchased and wrapped or are you busy making plans to head out again? I truly feel God has blessed me with this time off to rest and to enjoy this time. I'm enjoying my days and can truly say only one day did I feel 'bored' and that was a Sunday afternoon! I hope you take some time during this time before the new year begins and evaluate what was important to you in 2011 and what will you want to accomplish in 2012.
In a later blog, I will share with you how Tom and I are going to begin 2012. I would love to hear your plans as well.
Blessings!
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
My favorite time of year....
Yes, I know there is a lot of pushing and shoving, grabbing and totally being rude and arrogant at this time of year too, but I love the Christmas season. I love getting the grandchildren over to bake cookies and make Christmas mice and sometimes even to play games, if there is time. I love going shopping (although I really do NOT like to shop) and trying to find that 'something special' for my hubby or for one of the children or grandchildren. I love the Christmas carols (although some make me cry) and I love the celebration of Jesus' birth. I love this season! I know some of my family members do not love it as much as I do, but even though I don't have a lot of childhood Christmas memories, I love being with those I love during this time, and I hope that we are making memories that will last long after I am gone.
Since I have been 'retired' these 6-7 weeks (is that all?) I have gotten to spend an afternoon with my youngest son (on Veteran's Day), a day Christmas shopping with my middle child, and he came over to just visit last week one morning and helped some when I made bread and butter pickles, and yesterday I got to spend the entire day with my first born, my daughter. We started our day with breakfast and then hit the stores to get her shopping done. We shopped, stopped for lunch, and shopped some more. It was so fun - and so good for both of us, I think. We haven't had much time alone together in a long, long time. Actually, it has been hard in the past for me to have quality time with any of my children in a long, long time. This has been way overdue and I am grateful to God to allow me this time to make memories.
Today Tom wants us to do some things together. Of course we are always together, but one or the other is running here and there. Today is my day, I guess. :-) Not sure what we will do; I don't care that much about going to the movies. I've thought about a couple stores we could go to. Not that he likes shopping - and actually, I am through with the Christmas shopping - (not only bought, but all but one or two items are wrapped!) It looks gray out - may be a day to watch the Santa Clause movies - all three of them. :-)
I probably ought to see if I can get Tom out for a walk prior to settling in for the day. Then again, knowing him, shopping/walking will be all the walking he will want to do. My brother, bless his heart, has really issued a challenge this time by sending my little sister and I the link to a mini-marathon in Indianapolis next May. The impression I clearly read in his challenge was either to ---- on the pot or get off it. :-p In other words, either start walking/training or just shut up that you are going/wanting to do it. I had confessed to him recently that inside of me I want to do it really bad - but the outside gets in the way and doesn't do anything to train for it. Well, it sounds like I need to step up to the challenge and 'just do it'. I love to walk - that's the easy part. I need to register today because I read on the link last night by 12/28/10 (for the 2011 mini-marathon) all spaces were taken. Tom just let me know he was checking airfare.... guess I need to check the registration.
I hope my sissy comes through and starts training as well. She said last night she was 'in' but we will see. She is moving pretty good - in spite of her hip still being extremely swollen from her fall last month. She can still walk some and work it up. It will be so fun to actually DO a mini marathon (13.1 miles) with family members. Perhaps I will look up some for Phoenix and see what is available. I know my daughter would love to get in one.
Hope that you are enjoying this Christmas season with all the busyness of it. Instead of focusing on the rudeness of people, focus instead on being nice to them - obviously they need someone to be kind to them.
Blessings!
Since I have been 'retired' these 6-7 weeks (is that all?) I have gotten to spend an afternoon with my youngest son (on Veteran's Day), a day Christmas shopping with my middle child, and he came over to just visit last week one morning and helped some when I made bread and butter pickles, and yesterday I got to spend the entire day with my first born, my daughter. We started our day with breakfast and then hit the stores to get her shopping done. We shopped, stopped for lunch, and shopped some more. It was so fun - and so good for both of us, I think. We haven't had much time alone together in a long, long time. Actually, it has been hard in the past for me to have quality time with any of my children in a long, long time. This has been way overdue and I am grateful to God to allow me this time to make memories.
Today Tom wants us to do some things together. Of course we are always together, but one or the other is running here and there. Today is my day, I guess. :-) Not sure what we will do; I don't care that much about going to the movies. I've thought about a couple stores we could go to. Not that he likes shopping - and actually, I am through with the Christmas shopping - (not only bought, but all but one or two items are wrapped!) It looks gray out - may be a day to watch the Santa Clause movies - all three of them. :-)
I probably ought to see if I can get Tom out for a walk prior to settling in for the day. Then again, knowing him, shopping/walking will be all the walking he will want to do. My brother, bless his heart, has really issued a challenge this time by sending my little sister and I the link to a mini-marathon in Indianapolis next May. The impression I clearly read in his challenge was either to ---- on the pot or get off it. :-p In other words, either start walking/training or just shut up that you are going/wanting to do it. I had confessed to him recently that inside of me I want to do it really bad - but the outside gets in the way and doesn't do anything to train for it. Well, it sounds like I need to step up to the challenge and 'just do it'. I love to walk - that's the easy part. I need to register today because I read on the link last night by 12/28/10 (for the 2011 mini-marathon) all spaces were taken. Tom just let me know he was checking airfare.... guess I need to check the registration.
I hope my sissy comes through and starts training as well. She said last night she was 'in' but we will see. She is moving pretty good - in spite of her hip still being extremely swollen from her fall last month. She can still walk some and work it up. It will be so fun to actually DO a mini marathon (13.1 miles) with family members. Perhaps I will look up some for Phoenix and see what is available. I know my daughter would love to get in one.
Hope that you are enjoying this Christmas season with all the busyness of it. Instead of focusing on the rudeness of people, focus instead on being nice to them - obviously they need someone to be kind to them.
Blessings!
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Fully Committed
In my quiet time this morning I read a devotion by Andrew Murray, one of my favorite authors. As it revealed some things to me, I want to share it with you in the hopes it will also trigger some thoughts for you.
The eyes of the Lord search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him. - 2 Chronicles 16:9
In worldly matters we know how important it is that work should be done with the whole heart. In the spiritual realm, this rule should also hold true. God has promised in Jeremiah 29:13 that "If you look for me in earnest, you will find me when you seek me."
It is amazing that earnest Christians, who attend to their daily work with all their hearts, are so content to take things easy in the service of God. They do not realize that, if anywhere, they should give themselves to God's service with all the power of their will. In the words of our text we get an insight into the absolute necessity of seeking God with a fully committed heart.
What an encouragement this should be to us to humbly wait on God with an upright heart. We can be assured that His eye will be upon us, and He will show forth His mighty power in us and in our work.
O Christian, have you learned this lesson in your worship of God - to yield yourself each morning with your whole heart to do God's will? Pray each prayer in true wholehearted devotion to Him. In faith expect the power of God to work in you and through you.
Dear Lord, as Your eyes run to and fro through the whole earth, may You find me to be one with a pure and committed heart. Show your mighty power in me. In Jesus' name I ask this, amen.
As I read this I realized I don't do everything with a 'whole heart'. Some things I've done just to get it done, without putting myself into it. I think changes are in store for me! I should do everything as unto the Lord and do everything with whole hearted devotion - no matter what it is. Change is hard, Lord, so I am going to need lots of help from You!
How are you doing? What is your commitment level to completing the tasks set before you - whether it be work, church - or even more important - your family? Are you whole-heartedly meeting their needs? What about your extended family? Are you there for them in their times of need? Yes, sometimes we all need someone to get in our face 'whole-heartedly' to get us back on track. It may hurt, but be grateful when that happens - someone cares, even if they say they don't. If you are struggling and hurting, reach out. Hurt can cause you to do a lot of stupid things. Let it go - all the hurt, all the pain, to the One who is reaching out to you. Jesus alone is your Refuge, your Healer. Turn to Him in your time of need.
Blessings!
The eyes of the Lord search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him. - 2 Chronicles 16:9
In worldly matters we know how important it is that work should be done with the whole heart. In the spiritual realm, this rule should also hold true. God has promised in Jeremiah 29:13 that "If you look for me in earnest, you will find me when you seek me."
It is amazing that earnest Christians, who attend to their daily work with all their hearts, are so content to take things easy in the service of God. They do not realize that, if anywhere, they should give themselves to God's service with all the power of their will. In the words of our text we get an insight into the absolute necessity of seeking God with a fully committed heart.
What an encouragement this should be to us to humbly wait on God with an upright heart. We can be assured that His eye will be upon us, and He will show forth His mighty power in us and in our work.
O Christian, have you learned this lesson in your worship of God - to yield yourself each morning with your whole heart to do God's will? Pray each prayer in true wholehearted devotion to Him. In faith expect the power of God to work in you and through you.
Dear Lord, as Your eyes run to and fro through the whole earth, may You find me to be one with a pure and committed heart. Show your mighty power in me. In Jesus' name I ask this, amen.
As I read this I realized I don't do everything with a 'whole heart'. Some things I've done just to get it done, without putting myself into it. I think changes are in store for me! I should do everything as unto the Lord and do everything with whole hearted devotion - no matter what it is. Change is hard, Lord, so I am going to need lots of help from You!
How are you doing? What is your commitment level to completing the tasks set before you - whether it be work, church - or even more important - your family? Are you whole-heartedly meeting their needs? What about your extended family? Are you there for them in their times of need? Yes, sometimes we all need someone to get in our face 'whole-heartedly' to get us back on track. It may hurt, but be grateful when that happens - someone cares, even if they say they don't. If you are struggling and hurting, reach out. Hurt can cause you to do a lot of stupid things. Let it go - all the hurt, all the pain, to the One who is reaching out to you. Jesus alone is your Refuge, your Healer. Turn to Him in your time of need.
Blessings!
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