I don't think I did....

 My oldest son mentioned in his blog that I just read about his aunt knowing he would be in Indiana and that I told her.  I immediately wrote that I didn't tell her, but now I'm trying to think about it.  I still believe your uncle told her, son.  Seems like she mentioned it to me and I told her that I hadn't told her cause you were only going to see the uncle.  I didn't know she was invited to dinner until after the fact when she and I were talking; and she called yesterday and asked if she had been wrong / rude not to go. She would have loved to see you, but I had told her you were there to see your uncle; you weren't making the rounds.  She wasn't snippy.  And I don't think I was the one to tell her; I really do think it was your uncle.  I can get in to trouble all by myself; I don't need help!

Work is burying me again this week, and I'm grateful I only have 4 days of it!  My male boss actually did a teams video call with me yesterday to chat.  He did tell me happy early birthday - cause I know he usually gets bogged down and doesn't say anything. And that's ok. I don't expect anything from him. In the past it has been flowers but....  Anyway, we talked about 30 minutes - mostly about work stuff - but we were able to catch up a bit.  Not as much fun as it is with my favorite boss.   Really trying to keep up on things so that when I shut the computer off on Thursday night I am done for the week.  I reminded him I was off on Friday.   That even sounds good.

We were to get a big storm last night - but I don't think it made it out this far.  I heard other parts in our county got hit - but I don't think we got anything, unless I slept through it.  We had some wind, but I actually slept deep most of the night and didn't get up until 5AM.  It is actually cooler outdoors this morning; was tempted to go sit outside, but I am still in my jammies and think I will just stay where I am. I need to get the work computer on soon anyway.  I really was hoping for a big storm to cool things down; not for any damage of course. Although I will admit I asked God that if He sent a big wind, I wouldn't mind if the backyard tree would fall over.  I don't like that tree, and I dislike the tree in front even more! But that's HOA responsibility so I can't do anything about it. I don't like them. Period.

Hubby stayed home again last night and I didn't do our girls night out again.  Sigh.  This 24x7 is enclosing me.  (I know, getting away for a few days next week isn't going to change that either, but at least the scenery will change!)  I did cook dinner last night.  How can hubby look at little potatoes and ask me what they are called?  They are called little potatoes!  LOL I think he takes FOREVER to eat so that I will have to stay at the table and talk with him. I'm done before he is even halfway through his plate!  Of course I do give him a little more.  Last night we had steak and potatoes and I forget what else. Meals are running together.  He may have coffee with one of his friends today, but with me having to work, I still don't get a 'break'.  Woe is me, right?

I read Psalm 38 in The Passion Translation (TPT) today and it really changed how I have read it in the past. I mean, I've read it in the NKJV, and also the NIV version, but the TPT translation struck me different.  I won't type it all out, but the Psalm is about David suffering physically for his sins.  He was suffering the consequences of the things he did. Made me think of how often we do things that we want to do 'in the moment', and even if we know the consequences of what we do, we do them anyway.... and then when the consequences come, we struggle with it.  I know, none of what I just wrote made sense, did it?  I can think of several examples, but let's just use this.  A person tells a lie.  They know it is a lie when they tell it. They just don't want to tell the truth. They suffer the consequences of telling that lie. (when we were kids, we'd get spanked!  Today it is called abuse.  Sigh)   No wonder some kids are the way they are - they were never disciplined.  

Psalm 38:2 (TPT):  For the arrows of your conviction have pierced me deeply; Your blows have struck my soul and crushed me.

Psalm 38:18-22 (TPT) I confess all my sin to you; I can't hold it in any longer. My agonizing thoughts punish me for my wrongdoing; I feel condemned as I consider all I've done. My enemies are many. They ate me and persecute me, though I've done nothing against them to deserve it. I show goodness to them and get paid evil in return. And they hate me even more when I stand for what is right. So don't forsake me now, Lord! Don't leave me in this condition. God, hurry to help me. Run to my rescue! For you're my Savior and my only hope!

Sounds like King David is in a fix, doesn't it!  But how often do we find ourselves in one as well - even when we do nothing to deserve the slander, the berating.  The way we treat people - especially when they don't deserve it - can crush our own souls.  And I think that is what happened to King David.  Whatever he did, it just ate at him.  It doesn't specify what sin he did.  We all know about Bathsheba but in Psalm 51 he repented. And this is Psalm 38.  Maybe we ought to research that thought - and I don't have time this morning as I didn't get up until 5AM!!  And I have two minutes to get on the work computer.  Guess who may be late this morning.  Like anyone manages my time.  Grateful for that - that I don't have to punch a timeclock!

And with that - I probably need to get off here and get that work computer turned on.  Hope you have an amazing day!  

Blessings!

I had a strange dream...I think...

 Surely there is more to it than what I dreamed, but there are a couple different parts that I remember.  For one, I'm at the dentist office and he tells me that I have a cavity (which I haven't had a for a few years) and they need to work on it.  I think back to the very few times I've forgotten to brush my teeth before getting in to bed cause I was so tired....all I was thinking of was changing and getting in bed.  Hmmm. Is there something to that?  Got to remember to brush the teeth!

But the other was also interesting.  Now I had asked God before I went to sleep that He would give me a dream of what I was to do with my life.  Or maybe I just asked for a dream.  Well, whatever I asked for, in this dream I was quitting my job.  I was standing in front of two people and turning in my computer and we were chatting.  I don't know what I was expecting, but it was interesting to note that it was like 'well, goodbye' from them.  No "we are sorry you are leaving" or "good luck on your new journey in life" or "can you come back as a contract worker?"  Nothing like that.  Just casual chit chat and I just stood there.  And I woke up.  What is that about??  Yes, I would like to retire, but when I think about it - what would I do?  I don't want my life to be spent sitting here at home.  Yes, I would spend some time cleaning it like I want to, getting rid of things. Yes, I would spend a lot of time reading (I do have a few books I haven't read yet, after all).  Yes, I could spend time visiting Ms. Diane and Ms. Vicky during the day rather than trying to fit them in an evening or weekend.  But then what?  We don't have money to travel. We don't have money to do things or go places. So sitting at home would be it.  So why would I want to retire? At least I'm keeping my mind active.  

Hubby came home yesterday from the gym with the comment he thinks his air conditioner in the car is out. He started bemoaning the cost. I told him to take it to the dealership to see if it just needs freon.  But, if it needs work, I'm thinking of taking it to a mechanic we know who will do it for 1/3 of the cost.  Hubby is fussing about no money for things like this.  He has even decided to cut back on his eating out with his friends!  "I'll eat at home and then just have coffee."  Is he saving up for my birthday and our anniversary getaway or has he overcommitted himself?  Yes, I made him pay for his tires; yes I make him pay for his training.  I feel he should.  Those things are extras.  (Yes, even his tires; they weren't bald, but someone told him he needed to think about getting tires and of course he did).  Which reminds me, I think I got the low tire pressure notice last night and will need to run it down and get air checked in my tires.  Yes, my tires have 47K miles on them and are at least 5 years old. Or older.  It's a 2017 and I haven't bought tires on them. I bought in 2020 so I'm guessing it hadn't had new tires, so these may be older than 5 years. So, soon, I imagine.

John 14:1 (NIV)  Do not let your heart be troubled.  You believe in God; believe also in Me.

How can one believe in God, yet not believe in Jesus or the Holy Spirit?  They are three in One.  Just had that thought pop in to my mind as I typed out that scripture.  I wonder why that 'do not let your heart be troubled' scripture popped into my mind just now.  Could it be that I am somewhat troubled about hubby?  Yes, I may complain and whine a lot about him, but I am also troubled.  Some things he asks things that I have to stop and think about before responding (then again, maybe it's ME?) because I don't know if he is seriously asking that question or making that statement; is he wanting an answer; or is to so we can have 'conversation'.  (Remember he told his doctor he makes me repeat things so that I will talk to him.  That was his excuse one time for making me repeat things.)  My heart is troubled, because I don't want to have troubles!  Does that make sense?  I am troubled when hubby goes driving somewhere, even close by. I need to remember to say a prayer of protection not only for him but those around him every time. Yes, I still ride with him on occasion, but he is letting me drive places more and more.  But as long as I'm working, I also can't take 2-3 hours out of my day to take him places, to doctor appointments, etc.  Some months he may have 3-4 of those!  And of course there are his weekly meetings with his friends. And if he isn't driving/going somewhere, he is home.  Ok I'll hush. I just don't know what to do. Never been in these circumstances before.  And it scares me; it troubles me.  But I do believe in Jesus and I believe in God and the Holy Spirit, so all I can do is pray that in time he will give up his keys and we'll work things out for transportation.  It would save money on insurance and get rid of a car payment if we sell it!  But it will have to be his decision, or if something happens that he physically can't drive. 

I finished up The Joseph Blessing last night and it wasn't exactly what I thought it might be, but it still was interesting.  I have finished two books this week so that makes me happy.  Started a new one last night called The Altar by Jeremiah Johnson.   Just got started on it and I am hoping it will be interesting.  Jeremiah Johnson is a prophet who predicted that Trump would win in the last election. Then he said it was stolen from him.  And then..... God told Jeremiah Johnson he had not been told to get in the political arena and he was to shut down his ministries, shut down all social media under Jeremiah Johnson Ministries, and instead turn his focus on building an altar to God.  His focus was to be on what God says and prepare His people for the wedding feast with Him.  I had heard all this; I had seen his letter of apology for predicting the win and then the stolen election and that he was shutting down everything.  I haven't heard much from him since. No emails, no social media, nothing.  I'm curious what God has been telling him that he is sharing in this book.  Stay tuned; I may share some things.

Believe it or not - I'm out of things to share this morning.  I'm tired still, I guess.  I got rid of extra cookies yesterday by taking them up to my daughter in love and letting her share with her co-workers.  I hope she doesn't mind my doing that; you know I love to cook and bake but can't keep them here.... and if she will take and share - or take home - I'll cook it!  You know I love to make/bake it and give it away!   

Blessings!

There was a reason, I think....

 a reason that God changed up the message I was going to deliver yesterday morning.  Originally, and the one I had chosen earlier to work on was one I called 'God is up to something'.  But as I worked on it, it just didn't 'feel right'.  I don't know what it was then, and I still don't.  But I felt I wasn't to do that message.  So I looked around at previous messages and came up with the one titled 'Just one step away'.  It is based on Joshus 3, starting at verse 13.

It's about God telling the priests (after the Israelites had left Egypt, after the 40 years of wandering in the desert, and they were finally heading into the Promised Land and needed to cross the Jordan river, which was flooded at that time..... God tells the Priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant to step into the Jordan River and He would part it.  It was a step of faith, for sure.  Would they believe that God would part the flooded Jordan River as they walked into it - or would they be swept away, including the Ark that they were carrying?  They took that one step of faith, one step of obedience to God's voice, and they walked into the flooded Jordan River, and it parted.  Just as God said it would.  Just like the Red Sea did when the Israelites fled from Egypt.  But it took one step of faith this time.  Moses wasn't there to hold up his staff. Would they listen to Joshua?  They did, the priests stepped into the water, the water parted, and all the Israelites walked on dry riverbed to the Promised Land.  

So we talked about having faith.  What does faith cost us?  One can say that they have faith in something, in God, but until they ACT on it, it is just saying they believe it.  Sometimes it takes a risk from us to live our faith.  Sometimes it means that we need to pray about it - and then let it go and let God take care of it.  Anyway - that is what I changed the message to and to my surprise, I had one resident come to me afterwards and tell me how he had to let go of his daughter and her career choice years ago... and now she is a multi-millionaire.  Ok then!  One of the chaplains in training and his wife was there. He came up to me and said he had never thought of faith the way it had been presented and how much it meant to him. Others made positive comments as well, and even Pastor Don said it was good.  His wife shared that she realizes she needs to take the risk and share Jesus with her neighbor.  Sometimes sharing our faith isn't just for that one person, it has the effect of reaching the rest of the family, and others.  I am grateful that I listened to God and found a new message to pull together for the facility.  It reached those it needed to reach.  All in all, the message went well and I'm not scheduled again until September 2nd.  

It felt good staying home from church yesterday and working on the message. I ended up making changes in it even yesterday morning and reprinting it.  We went to Whataburger for a quick lunch (hubby was a bit flustered I didn't cook breakfast; after all, I was home, right?) and then headed over to the facility.  Once we got back home I read some, took a short nap, got up and made two batches of cookies (I need to get rid of these!) and finished a book before heading to bed.

And.... I ended up chatting with all three of my children.  My oldest son had gotten home and he text'd me after he read this blog and had a question. That's how I found out he had gotten home ok.  Then I realized I hadn't shared with the other two about our friend passing away.  So I talked to both of them. Just wanted them to know.  The good part is my oldest son and I text'd and we may be going to breakfast - just he and I - on my birthday.  I am taking the day off and hubby has his bible study.  I am not going to tell him I'm taking the day off for awhile yet.  I want him to go to the bible study.   I can easily convince him he can take me out to an early dinner.  Him and his food.  

I kid you not, he and food, he and his phone, he and the TV - all have a love relationship. He gets mad at me when I say that.  I can go in to the kitchen to cook a meal, and he will get up, come into the kitchen - while I'm still pulling things together and cooking! - and sit in his seat with his phone, ready to eat as soon as it is done.  Not every meal, but frequently he will do this.  I just shake my head. Food may not be ready for 30 minutes yet - and he will sit there and go through his phone. Thank God he wears hearing aids and I don't have to hear all that he listens to!  Sometimes I can when it is really quiet, for he has it up loud.  But if I talk to him, I end up repeating it for he is so engrossed in what he is listening to.  But bring that to his attention?  Absolutely not!  LOL  I tell him he has a media addiction. He denies it.

James 2:14 (NLT):  What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but do not show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone?

We can take that verse in many ways, I think.  We can say we have faith that a friend or relative will become a believer of Jesus Christ, but if we don't tell them about Jesus, saying we believe it will happen is fruitless, do you think?  Having faith means put it to work as well as believing.  It not only shows others your faith, but it increases your own faith in Jesus.  Say you feel a nudge to pray for someone.  You may - or may not - even be with them.  What if you prayed and what you prayed for happened?   Take the time to give them a call, or write a note, and let them know you prayed specifically for them at this time.  You may be surprised at what they tell you.  

As I write that, I am reminded of many, many years ago when my daughter's daughter was born.  I knew she was being admitted to the OB ward at midnight.  So hubby and I went to bed as usual. About 2-3AM I was awakened with the 'nudge' to pray for my daughter and baby to be born. I prayed that all would go well, that the birth would progress as it should.  As our landline was in another room, we didn't hear it ring during the night.  I didn't know all that had happened until we had gotten to the hospital the next morning.  Our granddaughter was delivered soon after, and I was holding her in my arms.  I shared with my daughter what had happened, and with tears in her eyes, she shared the fear they had gone through.  Her husband had called us, but we hadn't gotten the call.  But God knew and he awakened me.   When we woke up, we got the message and headed to the hospital.  About the time I had awakened and felt the nudge to pray, our little one's heartrate had dropped and the nurses were pushing on my daughter's stomach to get it up. They were considering an immediate c-section.  I truly believe it is because God awakened me to pray, the heartrate stabilized and my daughter was able to deliver normally.  I prayed for life, not death, and I prayed for safe delivery.  But what if I hadn't prayed, but turned over to go back to sleep?  

Always pray when God wakes you up.  You never know the why you were awakened, but if you wake up and their name comes to mind - pray.  Pray even what you don't know.  God is wakening you for a reason!  You say you believe in Jesus and in His ability to heal, to help, to comfort?  Then pray.  You may never know what your prayers do; they may change the entire picture.  Don't have regrets - pray until God releases you.  Then celebrate His goodness of including you in His miracle.

Blessings!

I had a dream but what?

 I remembered something vaguely when I settled here in my chair this morning.  And when hubby brought in my coffee, he confirmed it.  I had a dream last night and I don't remember what it was.  None of it, except that I was (fist)fighting.  Hubby said that he had just started dozing off after a trip to the bathroom when I started flailing and hitting. He put his hands up over his face to keep from getting hit and grabbed my hands.  That's what woke me up.  Him grabbing my hands.  That part I remembered.  I have no idea what the dream was about, but obviously I wasn't happy about what was happening, right?

But I actually slept good last night and I didn't wake up once to go to the bathroom, but I did wake up really hot and threw the sheet off of me until my body cooled down.  Yeah, that happens occasionally even in the wintertime.  I wake up drenched in sweat around my neck and chest. I think it is because I curl up in a ball and I am probably breathing right over me.  My pajama top is always soaked up around the neck.  And I'm always reminded of a former doctor asking me if I had 'night sweats'.  I never did, but now I wonder if this is what he is talking about, or is it just I'm curled up and breathing out 'hot air'?  I just know I did not want to get up early this morning and hubby arose about 4:30AM so I dragged myself up because I was starting to be awake mentally, although not physically.  He brought my coffee and a breakfast bar in here and I told him I wasn't going to our church this morning. He asked why.

I actually have a couple reasons, but the main one is that, as I mentioned yesterday, I wasn't comfortable with the message I had for today and I found another one yesterday and had to work on it. I did get it completed, plus I got the songs typed out, etc. I THINK I'm all set for the 2PM church service this afternoon, but I want to allow myself time to review and practice and make sure I have everything I need. Hubby decided he wouldn't go either when I commented that Pastor Pat probably STILL would not be preaching because the youth have the service today and there will be prayer over the students. Which is great, don't get me wrong. But I do need to make sure my responsibility in bringing the Word to the facility is ready and not incomplete.

I was broken-hearted yesterday at our Needles of Hope. I received some tough news.  First of all, one of my best friend's husband's brother passed away the other night.  But as she told the story of what happened, the bad turned into good.  This brother had always been so mean.  The last time they saw him (a few weeks ago), he was yellow.  About a month ago he had gone to the dr (finally) and was told it was probably cirrhosis and sent home.  He refused to ever go back.  The other night he was in such pain his sister and 91 year old mom convinced him to go to the hospital. He refused an ambulance so they got him in the car and drove him, where he was admitted.  He was full of cancer.  He was dying. His sister asked him if he was ready to receive Jesus as Lord, and he said 'no, it is too late for me now'.  His sister explained it wasn't too late and shared about Jesus' love, His sacrifice on the cross, and the resurrection that brings us to Him.  And she asked him if he was ready to accept Jesus, and he said 'Yes'.  He prayed the 'prayer of salvation' and passed away an hour later.

My friend said she got the phone call and went to awaken her hubby to tell him. He had been called, but had missed the call.  She woke him up and told him. He said he knew it already, as the brother had come to visit him a little earlier. He hadn't 'seen' him, but had felt his presence there, and he knew it was his brother.  We briefly discussed about the brother's late salvation.... did he make it to heaven or .....  Interesting to have that thought. But we all agreed that if he was going to hell, as we see in the movies, they are immediately dragged away.  With Jesus, there is a presence that remains for a short while. Interesting, huh.  But it brought tears to my eyes.

But what really got to me was when my friend said she hoped her husband didn't ask her to go with him on the road trip for his brother's funeral, as she really wanted to go to a close friend's funeral which is next Saturday.  She was our friend too, although we have not seen her in several years.  As I heard her story, I couldn't stop my tears from falling.  I'm hoping that we will go to the funeral next week; I wrote it down.  I know my kids know this couple.  I will need to let them know. I heard it had been posted on facebook, but I hadn't seen it. I just heard about it at Needles. And it broke my heart. But I know where she is right now.  Sitting at Jesus' feet.  They expect quite a few people at the funeral for everyone loved her, so I was told to get there early if we wanted a seat as it is at a funeral home, and their chapels are small. We may not go because it has been years since we have seen them.  But we still loved them. One of their daughters and I had occasionally touched base on facebook, but it has been a few years. I found out that she has been in prison, which would explain that.

It is so important to get the word out about Jesus.  So many people have not accepted Him into their lives and think they will have no fun if they do.  You will more than likely have MORE fun if you accept Jesus, than you can without Him!  Oh that the world will seek His face and humble themselves before Him!

2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV):  If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and heal their land.

That is a powerful scripture!  God says, IF we humble ourselves, IF we will pray, IF we will seek His face, IF we will turn from our wicked ways, THEN He will hear from heaven and He will forgive us; He will heal us; He will heal our land.  So - IF we, then HE.   It's our choice.  Don't get to the bottom rung of life and choose not to follow Jesus.  Choose life in Him, healing in Him. 

Since I have more time this morning, I think I'm just going to sit here for a bit and be quiet.  It's in the quiet moments that God will sometimes speak to us. And I could sure use a Word from Him this morning. I have read my Bible and did receive what He spoke there, but I love it when I am emeshed in His presence and just breathe Him in. 

Blessings!

It didn't work.

 I did wash my hair yesterday and try to style it.  I finally gave up.  I still don't like it.  I can't even put it in a real ponytail.  Sigh. I did it to myself. I should have cancelled when I felt like I didn't want to go.  Oh well, at least my hair is still growing and in a couple months it will be better.  I hope.

Today I get to run away and be with my knitting/crochet group and catch up.  When we meet in the office we don't have breakfast, unless someone brings something to snack on.  But today, we are meeting at Panera so we can have breakfast if we want it.  Not sure if I will or not.  But there will definitely be coffee, that I can assure you.  Good coffee.

I've finished up pretty much the message I'm going to do Sunday at the facility - but I'm having second thoughts about it now.  Will review this afternoon a few times and if I still feel it isn't going to work, will quickly look for another, for I need to be prepared tomorrow!  Still haven't sent pastor Don the songs I've chosen, but I have gotten them typed out for the residents.  They will get copied at the facility. Or I may just do it so that it's done. Need to plug in my amplifier today as well.  I'll review and do the preparations for tomorrow when I get back from Needles of Hope.

I'm a bit grieved and wish I knew what to do.  Our friend John who lived next door to us for about 20 years with Bonnie, my little Jewish friend who passed away a few years back, is 'missing'.  I'm saying missing for lack of a better word.  My daughter and son-in-law drove by our old place last week and she called and asked about John.  John always kept his yard nice and the weeds down (he had rocks and rose bushes in front) - but she said the weeds are about 3' high and the bushes are dead, and the mailbox is full, plus there are no cars in the driveways. (he has two driveways).  I'm not a relative so I can't investigate or check with anyone.  I begged John in the past to keep in touch, but he has not, nor have I.  I called the number I have for him and it is disconnected.  I can't even ask for a well-person check because with no cars there (he had 2-3 cars there all the time) it appears he isn't home.  I've racked my brain trying to figure out how I can check on him to see if he is ok. He's a little older than me and was always doing things.  Is he ok?  I don't know. So my heart is grieving that I didn't check on him sooner.  Hubby said he saw him in the Friday restaurant he goes to about 3 weeks ago.  I asked him to check with the group of men that are there, but I bet he forgot to ask.  He never liked John cause John would tell him how to take care of our yard and how to fix things - and those are things hubby didn't like to do. Plus John liked me and was always available whenever I asked for anything.  I really would like to check on him. I'm going to be near that area today, maybe I will drive by and leave a note to call me if someone ever checks on him. He has no relatives here in the state; I think they are all in New York.

I Samuel 16:17 (NIV):  But the Lord said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart."

Ah, do you remember what was going on at that time?  The Lord had rejected King Saul and had taken the kingdom away from him and was to give it to another.  The Lord told Samuel, the prophet, to go to Jesse's place and anoint the person the Lord reveals. Samuel was afraid that King Saul would know what he was doing, but he went anyway, for the Lord said 'go'.  Jesse gathered his sons and proudly had them walk in front of Samuel, from the oldest to the last of the six sons.  But with each one, when Samuel thought for sure each one was 'the one', the Lord rejected them.  When all six sons had past by and the Lord said 'no', Samuel had to ask if Jesse had any other sons.  Jesse replied he had the youngest son, David, tending the sheep.  Samuel said to call him, for they would not sit to eat until he arrived. And when he arrived, the Lord told Samuel to rise and anoint David as King over Israel, for David was the one that God knew his heart was for Him. And Samuel did so.

But why would Jesse not have all his sons come as Samuel requested?  He knew that Samuel was there to anoint one of them, why didn't he call David in.  As I was reading in a book recently and it brought up this about David, I was surprised.  I just hadn't thought about it.  Whereas we spoil our youngest (as a rule) and they get by with a lot..... back then the youngest son was 'nothing' but a free worker.  David was the shepherd tending the sheep while the older six brothers got to do other things.  In biblical times, the oldest son got the entire inheritance from the father; didn't matter how many sons there were, only the oldest got it all.  So with six sons ahead of him, David was just David, the Shepherd.  He was not valued.  Isn't it interesting that God took the youngest son, the one who had God's heart by praising Him and singing to Him throughout the lonely nights out on the mountains with the sheep, and made him king over all Israel.  And what a king he was!  Yes, he failed on a few things, but he always ran back to God and sought His heart.

And that's what we should do.  We shouldn't look at how pretty or handsome someone is and think they are so wonderful. We shouldn't look to see how tall they are to make them feel valued.  God looks at the heart - and so should we.  A heart that is sold out to God is what we all should have.  And it is reflected in our words, our attitudes and our actions.  Is Jesus living in you?

Just being a 'good person' is not going to get you in to heaven.  Telling everyone how blessed you are because you have been shown favor isn't going to get you in to heaven.  Putting ourselves out there without check and giving honor to God isn't going to get us into heaven.  No matter how good or how blessed or how honored you are.... it is your heart that God looks at.  It's your attitude and your actions. I've said it before, and I mean it as a joke of course, but still..... "I sure hope that when God takes my life, He takes me on a 'good day'. Isn't that sad? All of my days should be 'good days' and not days that I'm grumbling or angry or upset or whiny or self-serving.  All my days with all my words and all my actions - should be glorifying the One who created me.

And all your days should be good in that you glorify God in all you say and do.  Become a 'rapid repenter' when you sin.  Keep your heart open to what God is wanting to say to you.  Fill your mind with His Word and with His Song.  Praise His name always.  I don't know about you, but I want to walk those streets of gold, and I'm willing to do whatever it takes to get there. Even giving up my life. What about you? Will you give up your life to Jesus so that you also can walk those streets of gold?  We don't have time. The time is now. Will you receive Jesus as Lord, and live what is left of your life for Him? 

Blessings!

Doing the Friday dance...

 and am grateful today has finally arrived.  No big deal, other than it means that the work week is almost over.  I still have one big meeting to complete and am waiting on a response from an admin at another company to give me the availability of their people.  Once I get it, I can schedule that meeting - and then I can start focusing on extending meetings into 2025.  Yeah, have to do that soon because otherwise the dates/times fill up and then I have to figure it all out again.  Series meetings are easy, but they are also a pain in the behind at times.

My trainer had me doing core again last night - I tried to tell her it was time for chest or back as we did biceps last Wednesday, but it appears she wants to do core every other week.  So of course we did core. I love Morgan; she doesn't do the same exercise each time, but comes up with new core exercises.  And they hurt too!  I was talkative last night - too much, in fact (imagine that).  She had me do 5 (yes, FIVE) core exercises and I only got through them totally twice, and about 1/2 way through the third set.  I feel a twinge ever so often, but tomorrow will determine how much 'core work' is going to affect the body.  I love how these aren't machine workouts but using a weighted ball, or a big round ball, or bands and sliders.  I can do these at home.  Not that I would do that.  Ha Ha.  I should.  I need to get my core tightened up - and you know what - it just might pull some of this fat off my belly as well.  I can hope, right?

My trainer said she liked my hair when I got there last night - and I bemoaned the fact I don't think I like it. I think it is too blunt cut.  And he cut about 2" more off than I really meant for him too.  You know I am right when hubby tells me yesterday that he liked the length of my hair.  sigh.  I was talking with my little sister yesterday and she asked me if I had washed it after I came home. (no, he washed it so why would I?) She said that I need to wash it anyway because then I can blow it dry the way I want it, and I will find it will fall in to place like I want it - and not specifically the way he styled it.  So this morning I will jump in the shower and wash my hair.  I just took a shower yesterday as I don't wash my hair every day.  Maybe I need to?

James 1:33 (NKJV):  Do not merely listen to the Word, and so deceive yourselves, Do what it says.

How many times do we listen to a message while thinking about other things?  What are we having for lunch or dinner. Who is coming over. What do I need to pick up at the store.  Oh look at what that woman is wearing. I need to....  We all do it, I think.  My mind wanders at times while I'm sitting in church.  (Not always, mind you, I'm hoping to grab ahold of some truth to think about!)  How many times do we read our Bibles or a good book and then close it, and go on throughout the day without even thinking about that scripture again.  I'm guilty, just as you are.  Sometimes, if we are reading the 'right' book(s), something will stand out that will make you think "Yeah, I need to surrender that, or memorize that, or think about that" and yet, we continue the day as if we had never paused to read anything.  Yeah, I'm guilty of that too.

I really want to turn my spiritual life inside out.  What do I mean by that?  I'm a mess, and I know it. I have allowed the devil a foothold through my emotions, through my words, even my thoughts and actions concerning other people - and myself.  Me bemoaning my hair?  Trust me, that's not of God.  He created me in His image and I am beautiful - even if I don't have any hair!  I need to get my eyes off ME, and on HIM.  And so do you.

I will admit that I struggle at times in my walk.  People slander and people hurt and it makes me angry.  Angry people are really just hurting people.  We respond in anger when someone hurts us. It's our defensive mode.  But what if we gave it to Jesus and asked Him to take that anger and give us peace in the situation?  I've done it many times, and I will probably do it many more times.  There is always at least one person in our life that irritates us with their words, attitudes, and well, we just need to stay away from them.  I know that says 'cut them out of our lives', but we can do more being IN their lives by our witness that it is Jesus living in us, and not the devil.  In spite of people claiming to be Christians, and by their behavior and actions and words we feel they are not, we are not to judge. Each of us do what we think is right.  Some people have mental issues and even they use it as an excuse to do the things they do.  Right or wrong, we are called to love them, right where they are.  By our actions, perhaps they will truly come to know Jesus.

As I read my bible daily, as I let go of the things that hurt and bother me, as I spend time with Jesus in prayer..... I will receive the strength I need to prevail and live for Him.  That is my heart's desire, that I live for Jesus only and allow Him to live in me and through me.  God is always up to something, and He will use us in ways we don't understand.  We just need to let go of the reins and let God be God.  Right?

Needles of Hope in the morning and we're meeting at Panera again as the office has a skylight that heats up the area we sit in.  It's a drive for me, but it's ok.  Last time I got scones.  Maybe I'll get a breakfast sandwich with my coffee.  Makes me think - we met friends at McAllister's Deli last night for dinner and there were 4-5 women sitting in the corner crocheting and knitting.  They were there when we arrived, and didn't leave until just before we did.  Long enough for this one woman to have 3 - yes 3 - large 32 ounce sodas.  Where does she put it?  I can't get through one!  But I did drink water last night instead of soda. :-)  Loved the Rueben sandwich I had. yum.

Hubby is getting ready to go to his bible study and I think I'll hit the shower.  Hopefully I can do something with my hair that I will come to like it.  Praying still for my boy and his wife in another state. The wedding they are going to is today and then they are heading to Indy to visit an uncle, then his half sister and stepmom.  Praying for safe travels.  Can't wait for them to get back home where I know they are ok.  You parents know exactly what I mean.

My youngest son called yesterday that he has registered for another bachelor's degree - this time in criminal justice.  I think it will hold his interest - it would mine.  I'm proud of him that he is continuing to learn rather than just sit in his retirement.  Of course with two little ones (grandchildren) running around he will have to carve out time to study.  Praying he stays focused.

Need to get off and get busy. Hope you have an amazing day!  Until tomorrow...

Blessings!

I'm not sure what to think....

 I left early to get my hair done yesterday.... and although it looked acceptable after he styled it and I came home, once I got home and saw how much he had cut off in the back, I'm not liking it so much.  Yes, I have less hair to deal with, but I'm just not sure I like it.  And I remembered how I didn't like the layered cut a couple cuts ago.  Sigh.  I showed him 4-5 photos of hair styles from Pinterest and I thought he understood what I was looking for.  I'm sure its ok, and I just need to learn how to style it myself, but by last night, I wasn't liking it so much.  This morning hasn't changed that thought much.  But - "it is what it is" and I got what I asked for.... so maybe it is just me.  Maybe it is my wrinkled face that makes it look so out of place on my head.  Sigh.  Nothing I can do about that face!

Once back home I jumped on the work computer since I had taken off early.  I was able to get rid of two very big meetings, for which I am grateful.  I had a response that I needed so I ran with it and luckily my male boss was still working (it was his meeting), and I could tell him someone took the spot I had given to the outside company to meet with them.  I'm happy to say he told me to tell the other meeting organizer to move their meeting so that I could have that spot.  And I did.  I think they have already moved it.  YAY!

My head is hurting this morning so I've already taken an ibuprofen.  I wasn't going to take one for my body aches - lol - those 'booty thrusts' my trainer made me do the other day has caused my 'glutes' to hurt and it's hard to get up and down - but I can push through that.  I think it is the weather that is rolling in for the weekend.  I heard Tucson was to get his pretty bad again last night. Need to check in on the granddaughter later.  

My oldest son and his wife are heading out of state today.  I've already spent time praying over their travel there, the vehicle they will get, the travel to the location they are going to, and even their return flight! And I will continue to pray over them while they are gone.  I don't like any of my children being so far away.  I think I can feel somewhat of that my mother felt when I was the only child who moved out of state.  I won't say I was her favorite, for I wasn't that I know of.  I'll let all the others claim that role.  I knew that mother and I loved each other, and that is all that matters.  I didn't need to be the favorite.  

I argued with myself on the way home from the 'beauty' shop about dinner.  I really didn't want to cook, but then I thought about how often we have gone out lately and told myself we need to cut back.  (Even hubby was complaining yesterday about how much he has been spending going out to eat with his friends!)  We had gone out for pizza the night before.  Thought about picking up a bucket of chicken from El Pollo Loco or KFC... but I drove on home and fixed the chicken I had thawed out earlier in the day and seasoned and put in the airfryer, cooked spaghetti and put marinara sauce on top of it, and heated up a can of progresso split pea soup.  That was our dinner and it was filling.  And it didn't take much preparation either.  I think I have just gotten lazy.  I love to cook. I want to cook. I just need to get my heart wanting to create again.  

I wonder if my granddaughter nearby has made sourdough bread this week.  She gave us a 1/2 loaf (cause that is all I asked for) last week, and I finished it off yesterday.  Her sourdough bread is so good and when you toast it - oh yum.  

I worked on the message for Sunday after dinner last night.  Got it finished. I need to make a decision on the songs now and let Pastor Don know for he has offered to find music to play on his phone via soundbar. Or vice versa.  I try to find the hymns that most will know; luckily I have a couple hymnals that I can flip through.  I've got communion this week as well so I need to pull that together.  It's all good. I do my part and then I step back and let God do His.  It's His service anyway.

I don't know about you, but I am so grateful for a loving, kind, grace-giving, and merciful God who loves me so much, that when I do something bad, or stupid, or just even without thinking about consequences, when I seek His face and ask His forgiveness, He extends grace.  Receiving His grace when I seek forgiveness - sincerely - does not mean that I can sin any time I want to and know that I will receive His grace.  Nor does it mean it for you.

Romans 6:1-2 (NKJV): What shall we say then? Should we continue in sin so that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?

God's grace is free; all we need to do is ask for forgiveness, and His grace flows over us. You will find the burdens of sin that you carry on your shoulders will completely disappear.  Yes, we have to deal with the consequences of our sin(s), but God is faithful to walk with us through the fire, and not leave us in it.  I am so grateful for His forgiveness, for His love, for His grace.  His wonderful, abiding, faithful, consuming grace.  Hallelujah!

When confronted by people in sin (for example, when the Jews would throw an adulterous woman at Jesus and tell Him she needs to be stoned according to the law), remember what Jesus did that one time? He squatted down and wrote in the dirt.  We don't know what He wrote, but do you think He might have been listing the sins of the men who were pointing their fingers at this woman?  Jesus tells them that 'who is without sin, could cast the first stone'.  He continued to write in the dirt. Eventually he looked up and saw only the woman. He asked her where her accusers were.  They had all left, each without throwing that first stone.  And Jesus tells her, "Go, and sin no more."

And that is what He tells us.  We are forgiven, and we are to 'go and sin no more'.  Let that be in our minds and hearts today, that as we go through this day, our thoughts are on Jesus, and not on the worldly things that convict and tempt us.  Jesus is Lord of ALL.  Seek Him, Find Him, Know Him.  He is Lord.

Blessings!