What in the world has been wrong with life lately? I’m busy, being used by God, happy in my marriage and with my sweet wonderful children, all of them, yes you too sweet daughter-in-love. And as for Grandchildren well no one could have better, more beautiful & handsome, more talented and intelligent grandchildren than I.
So why this listlessness, why this uncertainty, why the strange rush to keep busy?
It has been weeks since I was able to draw aside from life and be still. Waiting on the Lord has a wonderful way of deepening your relationship with Him. It strengthens and prepares you for the day, week or month ahead. It encourages and blesses in a way only those who’ve taken the time to “be still” would know.
That is what is missing. I have neglected my time with the Lord, again. This happens periodically. Life closes in, it becomes busy even hectic and I try to cope by snatching moments of prayer and then running on to the next task. But that is not enough to sustain. I need the deep nourishing that comes through sitting with God, waiting to be filled, waiting for His voice.
I feel a need to stop everything and spend time with Him.
Thank You, Lord, for calling me to your throne. Thank you for always calling me back to You. Come, Lord. Fill me with Your holy presence. Come, that I may be prepared for the days ahead. Come, that you may be glorified. In Jesus name I pray, amen.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Friday, October 9, 2009
Being Thankful
Life is full and stressful, but I feel God’s presence. That I am not working right now is frustrating, but life happens and this is no surprise to our Lord. I know now why God told me months ago to let go of some things that I was involved in and enjoying thoroughly. It wasn’t easy to give them up. Nor is it easy to give up my work schedule, but I know that this time is set aside for God. To be used by Him and for Him, to bless someone else.
I wonder, is it selfish to think of our own family even as we pray for others? I don’t think so. I believe that God understands. In face I think He knows exactly how we feel. When others ridicule His Son He feels it as deeply as we do when our children are under attack. And just think, we, who are His have that closeness too. We are His. He loves us and wants the best for us and when we are attacked or ridiculed by others He feels it as surely as we do for our children.
Have you thanked God today for taking you into His family? Have you thanked Him for life, breath and all the other blessings He provides daily without us ever even having to ask? What a wonderful Father we have. Say a prayer of thanks today. Thank Him for everything you can think of. And may our Father give you a blessed day!
"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything through prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known to the Lord. And the peace of God, which passes understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Phil. 4:6-7
I wonder, is it selfish to think of our own family even as we pray for others? I don’t think so. I believe that God understands. In face I think He knows exactly how we feel. When others ridicule His Son He feels it as deeply as we do when our children are under attack. And just think, we, who are His have that closeness too. We are His. He loves us and wants the best for us and when we are attacked or ridiculed by others He feels it as surely as we do for our children.
Have you thanked God today for taking you into His family? Have you thanked Him for life, breath and all the other blessings He provides daily without us ever even having to ask? What a wonderful Father we have. Say a prayer of thanks today. Thank Him for everything you can think of. And may our Father give you a blessed day!
"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything through prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known to the Lord. And the peace of God, which passes understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Phil. 4:6-7
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Interrupted Living
How many of you have had your life and expectations interrupted with something difficult? Something that grew you in ways you never dreamed?
The past nine weeks have been difficult. That my brother-in-law came to live with us is a good thing in many ways. Our hopes that he would be able to get a good job and get on his feet have been postponed by his health problems. Life has veered onto a path strewn with traffic, waiting rooms, exam rooms, strangers and experiences.
This will be a very hard journey. One that is already challenging us, stretching us, making us give up pre-conceived ideas and give ourselves to God’s will. Giving up what we want, what we expect, for His will is a good thing though it is hard to do sometimes.
Life has changed in a way I would never have dreamed. It isn’t easy, in the best of circumstances, having someone living with you indefinitely. But to have to let go of schedules, habits and hopes hurts.
I can see where God is growing me and making me more what He wants. Having to give up things I like is no fun but it is more important that I am in God’s will. That I continue to grow in Him and I can see that this season of my life will be one I look back on with fondness and gratitude to our Lord.
For, He is faithful in all things! Praise God that He is faithful, that He knows what is ahead and has already prepared the pathway. And that He is walking with us through it all.
I would enjoy reading some of your experiences, if you care to share. May our Lord, our Faithful Father be glorified in all things and may each of you feel His blessing today.
The past nine weeks have been difficult. That my brother-in-law came to live with us is a good thing in many ways. Our hopes that he would be able to get a good job and get on his feet have been postponed by his health problems. Life has veered onto a path strewn with traffic, waiting rooms, exam rooms, strangers and experiences.
This will be a very hard journey. One that is already challenging us, stretching us, making us give up pre-conceived ideas and give ourselves to God’s will. Giving up what we want, what we expect, for His will is a good thing though it is hard to do sometimes.
Life has changed in a way I would never have dreamed. It isn’t easy, in the best of circumstances, having someone living with you indefinitely. But to have to let go of schedules, habits and hopes hurts.
I can see where God is growing me and making me more what He wants. Having to give up things I like is no fun but it is more important that I am in God’s will. That I continue to grow in Him and I can see that this season of my life will be one I look back on with fondness and gratitude to our Lord.
For, He is faithful in all things! Praise God that He is faithful, that He knows what is ahead and has already prepared the pathway. And that He is walking with us through it all.
I would enjoy reading some of your experiences, if you care to share. May our Lord, our Faithful Father be glorified in all things and may each of you feel His blessing today.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Snow Melts In Spring
Mattie Evans is finally living her dream.
Gil is determined to keep his distance from the rolling hills and his past.
In her debut novel Deborah Vogts gives us a story of hope, struggle, faith and love. Mattie faces a daunting task. It’s a long shot and her practice has already had losses so taking the challenge of treating the famous Dusty isn’t easy. But Mattie Evans does it to help a dear friend.
For Gil, facing his past and the reason he has run for so long is tangled through the tallgrass. Going home isn’t something that puts joy in his heart but he gets on a plane to see his old friend, one more time.
Will these two come through their struggles and jealousies to embrace the possibilities? Will they be able to put aside their preconceived notions to see the love that waits?
An enjoyable story I plan to share and then keep on my bookshelf. I look forward to reading the next book in the Seasons of the Tallgrass series as soon as it is available.
Reviewed by: Mary Bell Foster
Snow Melts In Spring
By: Deborah Vogts
Zondervan Publishing
ISBN 978-0-310-29275-3
Saturday, July 25, 2009
America
While running an errand with a family member today we listened to talk radio. There is a lot on television and radio about our country’s current situation with our leaders. Enough to steal any hope we might have for joy in this life; at least if all we had to depend on and believe in were our leaders.
While thinking about all I heard today I wondered, who is praying?
All these shows or the news media seem to do is encourage outrage, division and hatred. So what is the solution to all the problems in America? Is our government powerful enough and wise enough to put in place ideas and ideals that would improve living for us all?
The answer to that last question, should you wonder, is no. There is no one on this earth with enough power, wisdom, knowledge and understanding to take care of everything for us. But because of God we do have hope. He knows what is needed and He has given us, in His word the answer to our situation.
“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 will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14
Nearly two hundred thirty years ago a group of brave men and women won the fight for the right to build a country whose purpose was to live for God. God blessed those first settlers with strength and determination to build a land of freedom for all who sought it. God blessed us, America, because we dedicated our country to Him and built it on His laws, becoming “One Nation Under God”. But if we allow things to continue in the direction our government is leading we will lose God’s blessing on our country and our freedom.
The call to arms is again ringing through our great nation. Arm yourself with the word of God, pray as He calls us to in 2 Chronicles 7:14. We must follow His direction from that verse and turn from our wicked ways and back to Him, seek His will for our lives. Our God can and will save our nation from destruction if we seek Him.
While thinking about all I heard today I wondered, who is praying?
All these shows or the news media seem to do is encourage outrage, division and hatred. So what is the solution to all the problems in America? Is our government powerful enough and wise enough to put in place ideas and ideals that would improve living for us all?
The answer to that last question, should you wonder, is no. There is no one on this earth with enough power, wisdom, knowledge and understanding to take care of everything for us. But because of God we do have hope. He knows what is needed and He has given us, in His word the answer to our situation.
“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 will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14
Nearly two hundred thirty years ago a group of brave men and women won the fight for the right to build a country whose purpose was to live for God. God blessed those first settlers with strength and determination to build a land of freedom for all who sought it. God blessed us, America, because we dedicated our country to Him and built it on His laws, becoming “One Nation Under God”. But if we allow things to continue in the direction our government is leading we will lose God’s blessing on our country and our freedom.
The call to arms is again ringing through our great nation. Arm yourself with the word of God, pray as He calls us to in 2 Chronicles 7:14. We must follow His direction from that verse and turn from our wicked ways and back to Him, seek His will for our lives. Our God can and will save our nation from destruction if we seek Him.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Warriors
First; Thank You! to everyone involved in working to keep us free!! May God bless, guide and protect you.
With all that is going on in the world, do you ever wish you could do more?
Our God has the power to intervene, He knows what is happening and where, and He is waiting for us to join Him in the battle. Eph. 6:12 says "our battle/struggle is not against flesh and blood but against... spiritual forces…."
We cannot understand all that goes on around us. Frank Perreti’s books “This Present Darkness” & “Piercing the Darkness” give just a little insight into what goes on in the spiritual realm while we humans walk through life oblivious. It also gives insight into the power of prayer.
You can become a mighty warrior through praying for God’s intervention in these evil times. You can pray for protection, discernment, wisdom and direction for the people involved in our armed forces, intelligence agencies, government, etc…
There is more happening in this world than we will ever know, but God knows and has a plan for every situation. He will use it all for His good and perfect will. Yes, He will even use the evil in this world for His purpose. God knows what is happening but as His word says …”You have not because you do not ask.” Or…” you receive not because you ask amiss” (with wrong motives)… James 4:2&3.
Pray without ceasing;
For God’s will in this world,
For America, forgiveness for our sin, restoration and healing that we may become again “One Nation Under God”, truly Trusting in God alone.
For All branches of Armed Service, from acquisitions, laundry, & kitchen to mechanics, foot soldiers, airmen, sailors, seals, recognizance, intelligence, etc…. Pray for their salvation, protection, discernment, wisdom, guidance, health….
For the Families of servicemen & women, that God would give them peace, strength, calm their hearts, enable them to work without being held captive by fear, blessing for their sacrifice, health and salvation…
For Our government, from the President and his family all the way down to our city governments. That they would be steered towards making decisions that follow God’s will for our nation, state, county, parish, city, town and every home for His glory. That God would guide their thoughts and desires to bring about His will in our country and that He would save those who do not know Him.
For your families; for protection, guidance, discernment, wisdom, health….
For Other countries, that God would save them, use them for His glory…..
We may never know what our prayers accomplish on this earth, but it is important to keep praying, until the Lord calls us home. Let nothing keep you from your appointed task. God works through prayer and prayer warriors are always needed.
May God bless you as you work for Him, and may all be for His glory. In Jesus name I pray, amen & amen!
With all that is going on in the world, do you ever wish you could do more?
Our God has the power to intervene, He knows what is happening and where, and He is waiting for us to join Him in the battle. Eph. 6:12 says "our battle/struggle is not against flesh and blood but against... spiritual forces…."
We cannot understand all that goes on around us. Frank Perreti’s books “This Present Darkness” & “Piercing the Darkness” give just a little insight into what goes on in the spiritual realm while we humans walk through life oblivious. It also gives insight into the power of prayer.
You can become a mighty warrior through praying for God’s intervention in these evil times. You can pray for protection, discernment, wisdom and direction for the people involved in our armed forces, intelligence agencies, government, etc…
There is more happening in this world than we will ever know, but God knows and has a plan for every situation. He will use it all for His good and perfect will. Yes, He will even use the evil in this world for His purpose. God knows what is happening but as His word says …”You have not because you do not ask.” Or…” you receive not because you ask amiss” (with wrong motives)… James 4:2&3.
Pray without ceasing;
For God’s will in this world,
For America, forgiveness for our sin, restoration and healing that we may become again “One Nation Under God”, truly Trusting in God alone.
For All branches of Armed Service, from acquisitions, laundry, & kitchen to mechanics, foot soldiers, airmen, sailors, seals, recognizance, intelligence, etc…. Pray for their salvation, protection, discernment, wisdom, guidance, health….
For the Families of servicemen & women, that God would give them peace, strength, calm their hearts, enable them to work without being held captive by fear, blessing for their sacrifice, health and salvation…
For Our government, from the President and his family all the way down to our city governments. That they would be steered towards making decisions that follow God’s will for our nation, state, county, parish, city, town and every home for His glory. That God would guide their thoughts and desires to bring about His will in our country and that He would save those who do not know Him.
For your families; for protection, guidance, discernment, wisdom, health….
For Other countries, that God would save them, use them for His glory…..
We may never know what our prayers accomplish on this earth, but it is important to keep praying, until the Lord calls us home. Let nothing keep you from your appointed task. God works through prayer and prayer warriors are always needed.
May God bless you as you work for Him, and may all be for His glory. In Jesus name I pray, amen & amen!
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Review of Brandilyn Collins' New Release!
Exposure
I relate, in a way, to Kaycee. I’m afraid of the dark. Well, not the dark exactly, all the things darkness can hide.
Brandilyn Collins has written a story that forces her characters to face their phobias. Apprehension grips the reader as Kaycee tries to find out who is behind the mysterious messages and how they were able to get in through locked doors.
Exposure will have you reading as quickly as you can to find the truth. And what happened to Martin Giordano’s family?
Mystery, gripping, compelling flows from chapter to chapter demanding answers. Suspense keeps you reading, with a determination to discover the facts as you watch Officer Mark Burnett put aside his preconceived assumptions to solve two cases. Are they related?
A must read. Ms. Collins encourages us to remember that God is always there, quietly waiting. He is the answer to all things. Thank you, Brandilyn Collins for challenging us to step out and trust God even in the midst of fear.
Exposure
By: Brandilyn Collins
Zondervan
ISBN 978-0-310-27643-2
$14.99
I relate, in a way, to Kaycee. I’m afraid of the dark. Well, not the dark exactly, all the things darkness can hide.
Brandilyn Collins has written a story that forces her characters to face their phobias. Apprehension grips the reader as Kaycee tries to find out who is behind the mysterious messages and how they were able to get in through locked doors.
Exposure will have you reading as quickly as you can to find the truth. And what happened to Martin Giordano’s family?
Mystery, gripping, compelling flows from chapter to chapter demanding answers. Suspense keeps you reading, with a determination to discover the facts as you watch Officer Mark Burnett put aside his preconceived assumptions to solve two cases. Are they related?
A must read. Ms. Collins encourages us to remember that God is always there, quietly waiting. He is the answer to all things. Thank you, Brandilyn Collins for challenging us to step out and trust God even in the midst of fear.
Exposure
By: Brandilyn Collins
Zondervan
ISBN 978-0-310-27643-2
$14.99
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