Sisters Because of the Savior

2012-01-21T16:46:00.001-05:00

~My Blog~

2012-01-13T11:21:00.003-05:00

If you want to keep up with my writings from my mind, I have a personal blog site. I write there often. When I write here, I hope to inspire and encourage your heart and soul. Much of what I am experiencing now can be found on my personal blog. I will try to keep up with writing here at least once a month. My hope is to be organized enough to write something inspirational here the first Monday of the month. So, look for something here in February. In the mean time, you can always "read my mind" at www.tea-maniac.blogspot.com ~my random thoughts. God bless and keep you strong in Him!

~Something New~

2011-10-29T18:49:00.002-04:00

I decided to try something new today. Our family was having one of those days...it all began when the printer decided not to work properly...well wait...possibly it began when I allowed myself to sleep in until 8:00 a.m. I am usually up by 6 so that I can begin my day in tranquility and tea.

I knew the day was going to be off to a "different" start so mentally I tried to prepare my mind. I didn't start my day with my tranquil tea...but with oatmeal...you know...good for my heart food.

Later in the morning, our printer decided to die...just as my husband was in need of its work. Attitudes weren't the best. Our oldest son got up...late...as usual for a Saturday. Our youngest, special needs son, just observed us all...grin on his face.

Well, 'tudes mounted...and hub had to leave. My oldest and I had a discussion about "our day". I asked, "Do you have The Message version of the bible?" He didn't. I was kind of hoping for some regular day language. I said, "I want you to look up anything in the bible you can find on the attitude...just one place." He quickly pulled out one of his favorite Proverbs. I had him explain it and how it pertained to us....

Then I said, "okay, I want you to pray for me and Dad. I want you to pray for our tones and attitudes." He was willing...until I said, "right now." Oh, that was something he preferred to pray for on his own...alone with God. I agreed that that was fine...then said, "okay, then I will pray for all of us."...

I proceeded to pray for each person and their tone, attitude and over-all actions. As we were ending our conversation I told my son that from now on when we had an issue in our home...we were going to go to scripture...then discuss it and pray.

I believe I thought of this a little too late in raising him...but at least I thought of it...FINALLY...it took seventeen years to realize that is how I should be handling situations...I used to give him bible assignments but now I need to simply take care of it then and there...in discussion and prayer.

"Lord, thank you for allowing me to see that this is the way I need to handle family (and probably other) situations. Thank you that it hopefully isn't too late to make a difference in our family. In Jesus' name, Amen."

2011-09-21T10:58:00.003-04:00

Psalm 91: Lincoln Brewster

Psalm 91

2011-09-21T10:54:00.001-04:00

Psalm 91

¹ Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.^[a]
² I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust.”

How powerful is the meaning....dwelling in the shelter of the Most High...resting in His shadow....The passage continues as it speaks of Him covering us with His feathers I am reminded of how the Eagle soars and protects with its wings...feathers...the feathers of an Eagle are so very strong...the Eagle will rise above...soaring...protecting...even getting ice on its wings...taking on more than one would imagine it could...

Jesus has told us...I will carry your burdens...I will carry your sorrows...I will carry your stresses...I will carry YOU...through ANY thing...I will be your shelter...I will be your strength...when you have no where to turn...no one to cry to...no one who seems to understand...I am there for you...I am all you need...

Give up your EVERYthing...to Jesus...feel the comfort of His shelter...REST in Him!

~Text to God~

2011-09-02T08:13:00.001-04:00

It seems everywhere I look as I go about my day in which other people are included...I see someone either talking on a cell phone or texting on one...it makes me think...

Wouldn't it be so cool if we could text God? I mean, sure we can talk to him any time any place...quietly in our heads or loudly with our mouths....but wouldn't it be great to be able to text God and get a response back?

When I first began texting, I was one of those who sent immediate responses back and thought that others should send immediate responses. Well, I have learned that life happens and you can't always respond immediately...sure at times you can...but not always.

It would be so great if we could send a text message to God...and he could text us back. Communication is rampant here in the United States...but HOW do we really communicate. Are we so busy keeping up with the best and latest that we truly don't understand?

Let me step back for a moment...okay...I said it would be cool to be able to text with God...immediate communication...His responding back to us so that we can "see" the words. Doesn't he already respond to us? We have become so "vision" oriented...having to "see" with all of the technology presented to us that possibly we have become "deaf".

There are so many ways to "see" and "hear" from God. He communicates to us in a still small voice, through His Word, through other people...are we fully in tune with his form of "technological communication"?

Maybe we need to slow our pace down...put down the technological gadget in our hand...pick up the Bible with paper pages...open it...begin communicating with God...or maybe we need to simply sit quietly with our Friend...communing with Him...waiting for His responses...and His ways will be made known...plainly...if we simply rest quietly in knowing that.

Pride and Prayer

2011-08-15T16:09:00.003-04:00

Somehow it seems pride and prayer don't go together at all.

I found myself realizing how humbling it is to have people pray for me. People are praying for my brain tumor...to either shrink, stop growing, or disappear....whatever God's will is. The reason it is so humbling for me, I have discovered, is because sometimes I have had a wrong attitude in praying for people.

Oh, yes of course I have had this prayer line to God...from the time I can remember, it was like I had a direct link to answered prayers....sure they were not all answered as I had desired. I have always been a prayer warrior...intercessor for others...and I enjoy praying for others. I have discovered that at some point I continued enjoying praying for others but I also began to become a bit pride-full. Oh, I wouldn't pray for someone unless I knew I had the time to so that I could really devote that prayer time...but I also felt a little "mighty" at times because people would often tell me how fast my prayers got to God...they could tell. It was sort of like when I was a little girl who learned very quickly. I would go around telling people, "I'm smart, huh?" Well, God doesn't need intercessors that go around saying, "my prayers get answered quickly, huh?" I didn't really "say" it...but I had a wrong attitude..call it that ugly word...PRIDE.

So, it is humbling because as I confess, I have sometimes had pride in praying for people. I have talked to God about it...I know that praying is bringing ourselves humbly to our magnificent Lord God in thanksgiving and admiration...and yes confession. Father God hears our prayers...our petitions...in humility I once again "take off my shoes" before Jesus..entering His presence in awe and wonder...knowing that it is an honor to take my issues before our Lord God Most High...the Almighty.

I thank Jesus for this privilege.

~Savior Complex~

2011-07-15T11:06:00.003-04:00

Savior Complex...the belief one has that he/she is destined to become a savior. Of course Christians know in their heart of hearts that there is only One true Savior...and our Savior will be with us in Heaven some day. Christ, our Savior, truly does bring us out of our negative lifestyle.

When I write of one having a "Savior Complex" I am not delving deep into the TRUE meaning of the type of person with a personality disorder...I am writing about an individual who SO desires to see the best in someone thinking that THEY can "lift them out" of their lifestyle and habits. Such a person knows that Jesus is the True way out of bad habits and because this person has such faith, they often "fall" for helping people who have repeatedly continued in their harmful ways.

There are countless life stories of a person seeking to help another from various addictions or habits only to be trampled. You may say, "Well, Lariann, we ARE to pattern after Christ and He didn't give up on people." It is very true that Jesus never gives up on a person. BUT, consider the rich young ruler. His story can be found in Luke 18:18-27. "The story of the rich ruler is a perfect example of the grace that God extends us. The rich young ruler asked Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life, to which Jesus told him that he must sell all he had and come follow him. The man went away sad because he had much. The crowd confusedly asked how anyone could be saved if this was what was required of them. Jesus replied that with God all things are possible." (Biblegateway)

We may see ourselves as extending "grace" to a person who continually carries on in their old ways...not wanting to give them up for whatever reasons. They may appear to improve at times but that is part of their life cycle...sad to say.

So, there comes a time where we need to talk with God our Father; seeking His wisdom in dealing with people. We need to pray for wisdom and discernment. If in dealing with someone who doesn't seem to change their bad ways, we simply need to "disconnect" and leave them in the hands of Father. He knows the person inside out!

~Grasp Truth~

2011-06-15T06:57:00.003-04:00

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." 2 Timothy 1:7

Wow! What a powerful message in that short bible verse! Break it down with me...

Our God...our Father who never fails us...who looks at us as His children as a loving and just Dad...who will correct us when we sin in a compassionate way...is NOT a Father of fear...

Our Daddy (God) wants us to know that He stands with us through ANYthing that we face in life...ANYthing!!!...loss of job...loss of a loved one...cancer...brain tumors...children who are living for themselves...divorce...the unknown...Our Father God is right there with us...

Father God has given us POWER...His mighty prevailing power...all we need to do is call on Him...our God NEVER fails us...in Him we have the strength to take on...the world...for as Jesus said, "Take heart for I have overcome the world" (found in John). That promise gives us so much confidence...and POWER of God our Daddy Father...

The Love through God should be so evident in our lives...it should shine through our entire being...causing people to reach out for that love...seeking to understand how such love can be so real...compassion that we receive only through Jesus...live love!!!

Oh and a sound mind...only in Father God can we acquire a sound mind...He gives us the peace that passes ALL understanding...His peace is ALL we have in this day of such uncertainty...we can take heart in knowing that God is in control of EVERYthing...even when all around us seems so empty, discouraging, or hopeless...we have the HOPE and true PEACE that will give us the sound mind...in Father...

Know the truth of 2 Timothy 1:7~~take hold of it~~write it in year heart and mind!

~Hidden Within~

2011-05-26T11:04:00.005-04:00

Many of us keep secrets...secrets of what lies within our minds...our hearts...our souls...the secret may start out very small...like a tiny growth...

Allowing a secret sin to develop over a period of time will block our view of how we are to see Jesus and live for Jesus. I have no idea how long my brain tumor has been lodged just back above my sinuses, but I do know that it has affected my sense of smell on the left side.It could also cause issues with my optic nerves if it grows. The outside of my head looks normal. There are no changes in my facial features...no changes in motor skills...no changes in reactions to things. Inside, a still small growth had begun. I have no idea when it began. It was secret. The tumor nestled in to a bit of bone and remained "quiet" for a period of time.

Our lives and reactions to things can seem to remain the same all the while we hide our secret sin. It will affect areas of our lives, but often no one else may know as no one knew my sense of smell was not what it should be due to the tumor resting on part of my senses.The "secret sin" of the tumor was discovered "by chance" due to my hitting my head on a desk and needing for the pain to be checked out. Had I not hit my head and received a CT scan, I'd have never have found the "secret" of having a foreign object in my head. Secret sins don't remain secrets forever.

As the tumor was discovered, so eventually will a secret sin be. We need to choose to remove it. We need to come before Jesus in all sincerity seeking His forgiveness truly wanting to remove the sin from our life.

Singing once again, "Lord I give you my heart, I give you my soul, I live for you alone..." Pray to Jesus to remove that secret sin. Allowed to grow, it will cause problems for the things in your life that are supposed to be there. "Foreign objects" must be removed in order for us to be "whole" again. Choose to be whole in Jesus!

~God of Wonder~

2011-05-20T18:59:00.002-04:00

God of wonder beyond our galaxies...You are holy...You are all-knowing...You watch me when I sit and stand...when I breathe...when I fall...and if I had not fallen that Tuesday night, May 3, 2011, I would not have known I have a brain tumor...Yes...I have a brain tumor...it is a benign meningioma lodged in the olfactory area behind my nose...

Lord, you know I have always had childlike faith...when the doctor told me the options (monitoring it as long as it doesn't grow, gamma knife, or surgery of cutting into my skull) I felt fearful...this lady of faith...who has no problems praying for others...believing they will be healed...felt fear...I knew it was wrong to have fear...but I felt it rush over me...

Dear Lord, God...I have a brain tumor that has been there for who knows how long...well You know for how long...it bothers my sense of smell...and a few other things...I do praise You that it is benign...and that it has not caused issues with my optics nerves...or anything major...

But, Father, God...I need to remember that I rest in Your hands...I have cried on Your BIG shoulders many times...for my mom who went to be with You when I was 7...for my miscarriages...for my baby Caleb when he was so ill at birth...for my dad who ran into Your open arms months before Jesse was born...for Jesse who almost died when he was 4 and who continues to have struggles and challenges I never dreamed a joy-filled boy of mine would have due to not having all of his corpus callosum...I have cried on You so many times...I can't count them...and You have always been faithful...always felt Your hugs...Your comfort...

So, Jesus...I come to You...I smile as I think of the song..."Lord I give you my heart...I give you my soul...I live for you alone..." So, I give you my brain...where Jesse is missing something in his brain...I have something that isn't supposed to be there...I give you my brain...the tumor is there for a reason...You know what it is...I pray that under Your control...the tumor doesn't cause me any issues and that it doesn't grow...I do trust YOU...You have NEVER failed me...I DO have faith...faith that You will monitor my brain as You see fit...

I love you, Jesus...thank You so much for your friendship and for Your keeping things in control....

~Oh My Head~

2011-05-05T08:47:00.004-04:00

I was tucking Jesse in at night, giving him a hug...when he didn't realize his own strength and he gave me a push. I fell back onto his desk, hitting the edge (maybe corner) of it with my head while trying to brace myself with my right arm. My head had immediate pain as did my arm. I told Jesse what had happened and said good night again.

Quietly I went to the freezer and pulled out a small ice pack to put on the back of my head. I iced it for half an hour. The next day I still had pain...and it continues a third day...but I will survive (grins). All I could think of when I hit my head was how amazing the brain was. The brain is this mass of a Jello-like substance protected by a very hard skull bone. The skull's purpose is solely for protection.

We are similar to that Jello-like mass. Left unprotected we can be easily bruised or molded in a different form. Life situations come at us from all angles. We need protection...we need that Source of hardness.

Allowing Jesus to form around us...holding our "mass" of who we are, we can have that Protection. When life hits us with "hard edges", He is there to take the blow. We can rely on His stability. That is not to say that sometimes the things that hit us in life...or that we choose to be "hit" by...do not affect Him. I am sure He feels all of our pain...the pain that we cannot control as well as the pain we bring upon ourselves.

We need to keep Jesus as the focus in our life in order to maintain the protective relationship for without the "skull" we would be shapeless and totally on our own to be "hit" on all sides. Jesus takes on our worries, cares, hardships, and he loves to celebrate with us in our joys. Thank Jesus that He wants to be there for us always...always caring for us.

See Psalm 91

~Love Languages...Change?~

2011-04-05T14:40:00.004-04:00

Do you remember the book, The Five Languages of Love" by Gary Smalley and John Trent? In it, they list Five different "Love Languages": words of affirmation, gift giving, physical touch, quality time, and acts of service.

When I first read the book...years ago...my love language was a combination of quality time and physical touch. I have always been one to crave quality time. To me, having quality time with someone, does not mean that I have to consistently be verbalizing with them. I remember as my dad lie in his hospital bed in Grand Rapids, Michigan back in 1998 and each of the 3 of us girls were taking turns being with him in his room, Dad and I had one of few conversations. He lie watching the news and I was sitting at his bedside. I grew weary of the Clinton/Lewinski news so I decided to converse with my dad.

We talked about how he said people should learn to think about nothing. I asked him how you go about doing that and he looked at me and said, "You just do it." Well that was clear...haha! I mentioned to him that we never really talked a lot. He looked at me with his compassionate brown eyes and said, "No, only about what was important." Dad and I had this type of relationship in which I simply appreciated his presence...we didn't have to exchange words. I knew that if I ever wanted to talk about the things on my heart, he was there though and would listen. So, quality time, to me, is simply being "in the presence of".

Physical touch...yes I will always like hugs. They encourage. But as I have aged, I have come to appreciate words of affirmation more and more. To me, receiving words of affirmation touches my inner being...my soul.

I am not dis-crediting any of the other love languages because I know that some are very important to others. I have noticed, though, that as I have grown or aged...whatever you want to call it...the importance of quality time has never and will never change...and I cherish words of affirmation.

"The Five Languages of Love" is a good read for those who want to understand the people in their lives that they are closest to. If you read this book years ago, as I did, you may want to re-read it....as possibly you have grown...changed...as you aged.

~Gladwin FMC Updates~

2011-03-18T12:48:00.003-04:00

The Ladies of the Gladwin Free Methodist Church are making changes....

New Thing...

We plan to meet for a potluck lunch every 4th Monday of the month from 11:30 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. for a time of simply socializing and getting to know each other. We ask that you not bring any children as this is our time to get away and relax with other ladies. Feel free to invite friends and please bring food to share.

Mother/Daughter...

The Mother/Daughter banquet has changed this year as we will be having a Mother/Daughter (ladies') brunch on May 7 at 10:00 a.m. All ladies are welcome and if you do not have a mother or daughter, please adopt a mother or daughter and bring her along. The men will be hosting and cooking so that we can simply relax and enjoy a morning of leisure socializing with each other.

I Dare You to Listen!

2011-01-12T14:30:00.003-05:00

There comes in time in your life when you must choose to sit quietly. Sometimes it may not necessarily be a choice. At times we are "forced" to slow down or even stop most or all of what we have been so preoccupied with.

Sometimes, if we are not "forced" to sit quietly, we come to a point in which we feel the world is screaming at us from all directions. There is no calm. All is a mass of confusion and only getting worse as the days go by.

If you are not already "forced" to do so, choose to sit quietly with tea, coffee, water, or some sort of juice and your Bible. Turn off the radio, TV, anything "extra" (sure you may have to have the washer or dryer going in the background, but you can tune that out). Be sure you have blocked out at the LEAST a half hour but better still an hour. Listen! Listen to the chaos inside your head. Pray it out! "Jesus, I am sitting here right now trying to catch the calm that You bring. I ask that you clear any "noises" out of my head. Thank you!"

When the noise has cleared from your head, Listen! What is Jesus telling you? Does He want you to pick up his Word and read from it? Then do so! Is He telling you, "Be Still! You need to learn quietness!" Listen!

One of the most difficult things for us to do (us meaning most people living in the USA) is to Be Still! Quiet! Listen! We think we need to keep something going...physically or mentally...all the time. Jesus wants us to set aside time for Him. Time for us to Listen! Be quiet! Develop a calm quietness about ourselves.

I purposely didn't choose a Bible verse. God will talk to you and tell you what He wants you to know when you seriously take the time to wait and Listen! I tell people that listening (to others) is a lost art, but more so than listening to others, the "art" of listening to our Best Friend (Jesus) has been lost by most.

I dare you to set aside time...as I suggested a half hour or MORE...daily...to simply LISTEN to Jesus. Keep your mouth and thoughts quiet! Listen! Hear what He wants you to know. Focus on Him...and Listen!

you never let go, matt redman

2010-12-05T11:34:00.000-05:00

~The Velveteen Woman~Crosswalk.com

2010-11-17T08:27:00.000-05:00

The Velveteen Woman

Sharon Jaynes

Today's Truth
"Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ" (Galatians 1:10 NIV).

Friend to Friend
Most of us have read or heard of the childhood classic, The Velveteen Rabbit. Perhaps you first heard the story snuggled in your mother's lap or like me, as an adult with a child snuggled in your lap. For me, The Velveteen Rabbit is a treasure I discovered in motherhood, rather than in my childhood. And like many children's books, the message carries a profound truth that resonates more with adults than with kids.

The story begins…

"There was once a velveteen rabbit, and in the beginning he was really splendid. He was fat and bunchy, as a rabbit should be; his coat was spotted brown and white, he had real thread whiskers, and his ears were lined with pink sateen. On Christmas morning, when he sat wedged in the top of the Boy's stocking, with a spring of holly between his paws, the effect was charming.

"The boy loved the rabbit…for at least two hours, but then he was put on the nursery shelf with all the other toys. Because he was velveteen, some of the more expensive toys snubbed him. Some of the toys boasted about being fashioned as smaller models of real things, such as boats and soldiers. But the rabbit didn't even know that there was such a thing as a real rabbit. He thought all were just as he was, stuffed with sawdust. But one night, the rabbit made a fascinating discovery.

"The Skin Horse had lived longer in the nursery than any of the others. He was so old that his brown coat was bald in patches and showed the seams underneath, and most of the hairs in his tail had been pulled out to string bead necklaces. He was wise, for he had seen a long succession of mechanical toys arrive to boast and swagger, and by-and-by break their mainsprings and pass away, and he knew that they were only toys, and would never turn into anything else…

"What is REAL?" asked the Rabbit one day, when they were lying side by side near the nursery fender, before Nana came to tidy the room. "Does it mean having things that buzz inside you and a stick-out handle?"

"Real isn't how you are made," said the Skin Horse. "It's a thing that happens to you. When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become Real."

"Does it hurt?" asked the Rabbit.

"Sometimes," said the Skin Horse, for he was always truthful. When you are Real you don't mind being hurt."

"Does it happen all at once, like being wound up," he asked, "or bit by bit?"

"It doesn't happen all at once," said the Skin Horse. "You become real. It takes a long time. That's why it doesn't often happen to people who break easily, or have sharp edges, or who have to be carefully kept. Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in the joints and very shabby. But these things don't matter at all, because once you are Real you can't be ugly, except to people who don't understand."

The Velveteen Rabbit wasn't even sure what a rabbit was supposed to do. He just knew there had to be more to life than being filled with sawdust and sitting on a shelf.

Being real. That's what really matters. I don't want to wait until most of my hair has fallen out and I've lost my stuffing. I want to be real right now. So what if I don't look as shiny as the other toys in the nursery?

Yes, sometimes it is painful to become real. It takes courage. But until we do, we'll find our existence sitting on the shelves a dim reflection of the freedom and jubilant dance that God intended in the fields of life.

Join me next time as we look at a man in the Bible who learned what it meant to be real.

Let's Pray
Dear Heavenly Father, I know that You want me to be real and honest with those around me. Jesus was. He never pretended to be something that He was not and He didn't pretend not to be something that He was. I am Your child with many faults, failures and foibles. I made mistakes in my past and will make mistakes in my future. I pray that I will always have the courage to be real with those around me and never participate in religious pretending because of concern over what others may think. I'm just me: saved, sealed, delivered!

In Jesus' Name,

Amen.

Now it's Your Turn
You might be concerned that today's devotion didn't have more Scripture. So let's go ahead and prepare our hearts for Thursday's devotion.

Read Genesis 25: 25:23, 24. Who was Jacob?

How did he trick his brother? (Genesis 25:29-34)

How did he trick his father? (Genesis 27)

Jacob was pretending to be someone he was not. In the end, it caused much heartache. But that's not the end of the story. Stay tuned!

More from the Girlfriends
Being real is one of the themes of Your Scars of Beautiful to God. God doesn't want us to hide our scars. He wants us to be real and use the scars of our past to impact those in our present! To learn more, see Your Scars are Beautiful to God: Finding peace and purpose in the hurts of your past.

~Intercessory Prayer~

2010-10-24T15:22:00.002-04:00

Intercessory prayer...just WHAT is an intercessor? It is one who "stands in the gap" for another praying for that person.

Here are some scenarios that can occur where someone would have to step into the gap to pray for another person:

Praying for someone who is not saved
Praying for someone who is too sick or too incapacitated to pray for himself anyore
Praying for someone whose faith levels are too low with the Lord
Praying for someone who is too weak in the Word
Praying for someone who has very little, if any, personal relationship established with the Lord
Praying for someone who has a sudden emergency getting ready to attack them
Praying in agreement with others on an united prayer cause

One who "stands in the gap" for another is an unselfish person in that he/she chooses to take the time to pray for someone other than him or herself. God is calling those who follow Him to intercede for others. I used to think that an intercessory prayer warrior was simply "gifted" that way...that it was one of the spiritual gifts. We, as followers of Christ, are ALL called to intercede.

Some verses found in the Old Testament but relevant today are:

“So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one.” (Ezekiel 22:30)
“He saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor; therefore His own arm brought salvation for him … (Isaiah 59:16)

How sad for God that He could find no one to pray! We need to wake up and realize that selfishness does not become a Christian. We need to realize the POWER of prayer! We need to be so close to Jesus and the Holy Spirit that we "hear" Him whisper to us regarding those in need of someone to step in and pray for them. Be alert to times when someone simply "comes to mind". You may not know just "what" to pray...but PRAY! By ALL means PRAY for that person!

Jesus is calling a few good prayer warriors! Choose to be one in the army against the spiritual warfare all around us!

*words in black taken from Liberty University Online

~Psalm 51:1-12 (NIV)~with added

2010-09-12T13:33:00.006-04:00

¹ Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions....I haven't been living up to what a follower of you is to be this past week...

² Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin....Lord, forgive me for my un-Christlike thoughts...letting my mind be focused on things I know don't please You...forgive me for the gossip...the jealousy...my anger...and my bitterness...

³ For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me....those sins are difficult for me to forget and let go of...

⁴ Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are proved right when you speak and justified when you judge....

⁵ Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me....from the time I was born, doing right has been a struggle...because I so often want to do things that I know don't please you....

⁶ Surely you desire truth in the inner parts you teach me wisdom in the inmost place. ⁷ Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow....my heart, mind, and soul know Your truth, Lord...I have studied your Word...let me start fresh in You...

¹⁰ Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me....I so long to be holy and "whole"y Yours!

¹¹ Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. ¹² Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.

Let me encourage you to make this the prayer of your heart...daily. Post this, passages from it, or the entire Psalm 51 as a reminder to live a life that would give honor to our Savior, Jesus Christ!

~Boxing~

2010-09-02T10:36:00.003-04:00

I've recently taken an interest in boxing! It will be a worthwhile challenge I have no doubt. I have a book explaining EVERYthing I need to know about boxing for women...the last few chapters are the workouts (4 weeks). I don't need much equipment...just a jump rope...and I don't HAVE to go to a gym for "real" boxing if I don't want to.

As I was reading through the book, "The Gleason's Gym total body boxing workout for women", I couldn't help but think of my spiritual life. I smiled as I remembered the old song, "The Champion" sung by Carman...the video was of satan and Jesus boxing" We, as Christians, all "box with the devil. We are presented with daily challenges (temptations) and struggles....as well as opportunities. In the book there is a chapter entitled, "Mental Preparation: Are You Ready?" I never really liked boxing as I was growing up watching ALL other sports with my dad, so I never really thought about how much mental preparation boxing took.

In this second chapter of the book, the authors pose questions to the boxer-wanna-be. I will also pose questions to the Christian lady:

1. How badly do you want to see results? Muhammad Ali states, "...Champions are made from a something they have deep inside them" Christian, how badly do you want to see results of your knowing Jesus? Is your deep desire to see others know Jesus also and to grow in Him? Jesus needs to be DEEP inside your heart!

2. Do you have the courage to take the risks? "Making a change is scary because it means you're opening yourself up to the possibility of success or failure. Accept that you WILL make mistakes during your journey of becoming a boxer." Christian, are you courageous for Jesus? You will need to decide whether or not you want to go along with friends and things they do and how they talk (among other things). Know that you WILL make mistakes. Jesus is right there to forgive you and help you move on.

3. Are you dedicated to making changes? "If you just go through the motions...you're not going to get anywhere." You need to choose to BE different! Live to see results for Jesus! Take ACTION!

4. Do you trust your trainer? "The last seconds of a match are just as challenging as the first seconds of a match...you have to learn to go the distance." Do you trust Jesus? ALL the way with your life? You will need to go the distance with Him. Things will NOT get easier...they may in fact become more difficult.

5. Are you ready to step into the ring and willing to take punches? Are you ready to stand firm for Jesus in ALL circumstances...whatever may come up...a co-worker gossiping about another, flirtatious advances of a "friend", speaking out for Jesus boldly when issues and concerns arise...confronting someone in love? "...getting hit should precipitate your counter punch" Be ready in all circumstances to jab for Jesus!

I encourage you to read Romans 12:1-8 DAILY and pray it for your life!

All quotes were from "The Gleason Gym total body boxing workout for women" and the small "s" and "d" for satan and devil were intended:)

~September 18th Conference~

2010-07-27T08:31:00.001-04:00

I am posting the entire letter from our East Michigan Conference but will keep you all informed as the day approaches as to more details.

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ –

We want to invite you to join us in an amazing outreach opportunity for our churches and communities. Beth Moore, renowned and beloved Bible study teacher, and worship leader Travis Cottrell will be live via satellite on September 18, 2010 at the Ogemaw Hills Free Methodist Church in West Branch, MI. The event runs from 10:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and doors open at 9:30 a.m. Lunch will be provided and is included in the cost of your $20 admission ticket.

This promises to be a life changing event for all who attend and we are so excited for this amazing outreach opportunity for the women (and men) of our communities!

Our prayer is that our excitement will be contagious and people will see the love of Christ shining through us and want to come! One more soul for Jesus!

We are excited to see you there and worship together the One we love the most!

In Christ,

Megan Heintz

For more information or promotional materials contact:

Megan Heintz

Phone - 989-387-9947

Email – meganheintz@yahoo.com

or contact the church office at:

Phone – 989-345-2260

Email – office@ogemawhills.org

~Thunk~ makes you~Think~

2010-07-04T11:09:00.003-04:00

As I sat at my desk yesterday, my chihuahua, Zip relaxed on the arm of our recliner watching the animal activity outside. The big picture window allows us to view birds at the bird feeder and bird bath. Suddenly, there was a LOUD thump on the window...Zip jumped and ran off...so much for bird-watching. I went to the window to see that there was a very stunned and sprawled out bird lying in the flower bed.

I hoped that the sprawled legs were fine and that soon the bird would gather its bearings and take off again...we have too many cats roaming the neighborhood. I returned to my desk but couldn't stay there long as I was curious about the bird. When I checked it again, it was sitting up, dazed, sort of shaking its head. It would be fine and take off soon....and it was and did.

This bird reminded me of a person simply zooming along in life...taking things for granted as we often do. The bird, like a person, doing its own thing until BAM! something hits it to slow it down.

We need to take time to notice things in life...take time to invest in others...take time to worship our Lord...we simply need to MAKE time for things that are worthwhile. It may take a THUNK to slow us down...I hope not...taking time for meaningful things for Jesus is our purpose in life.

We can enjoy life...soaring along...but we need to land often...for worthwhile life investments.

!!!Exclamation Marks!!!

2010-06-17T09:32:00.002-04:00

I just read the editor's note in the magazine, "Real Simple". (July 2010 issue) She states something very interesting that I had never really thought about before. She quotes a lady, Monika Kochhar,"Sometimes I think Americans must have invented the exclamation mark--it's their state of mind."

I do use exclamation marks often in writing or leaving posts. It really does stand out! It brings the text to life and if used in conversation really brings your words to life.

After reading the editorial, I began to think. Am I living an exclamation mark life? Does what I say and how I live stand out and excite others for Jesus or simply encourage them? Check this out..."I want to live for Jesus."....OR...."I want to live for Jesus!" They both say the same thing...but which one is brought to life...which one encourages you or brings a smile to your face?

Just something to consider....I hope you choose to live an exclamation mark life. Energy comes from a wonderfully super natural Source...Jesus!!! Live it!

~Memorization~

2010-06-16T10:51:00.003-04:00

I was recently presented with a challenge by a group I belong to on Facebook.

The challenge was to memorize a very good book of the Bible...what book isn't good (grins), but I believe I need to work on something that will be taken to heart at this time in my life.

When I was in high school, I memorized James. I like James because it is broken up in little "chunks" of what I call "mini-sermons" and it is easy to memorize because of that.

In challenge...author Janet Pope of "Revive Our Hearts" says:

You Need Hunger
From the radio series: His Word in My Heart with Janet Pope

Would you say you have the kind of discipline you would need to memorize large portions of Scripture? Author Janet Pope says there’s a quality far more important than discipline. To memorize, you need hunger.

Memorize Scripture so that you can get to know God, so that you can invite God into your thoughts, so that you can commune with God throughout the day.
Memorize because you’re hungry for God’s Word. You need Him. You want Him.
When you are praying Scripture, then you’re praying with confidence.

So, I challenge you to memorize a meaningful passage. Before I memorize Romans 12 (for starters) I will study it and "pray" it...then work on memorizing it.

God bless and keep you strong in him!

Kutless- Smile

2010-06-14T14:05:00.000-04:00

Words of Wisdom from Jill Briscoe

2010-05-12T10:25:00.002-04:00

Please check out this site. I am connected with "Just for Women" in facebook. If you would like to connect with me in facebook I am listed as Lariann Evoy Hortop.

Here is the site: "Christian Prayer"

http://justbetweenus.org/pages/page.asp?page_id=96042

God Bless and Keep You Strong in Him!

~Time~

2010-03-20T14:18:00.002-04:00

Do you ever let the things of life get you side-tracked? I sure do/have. The thing is, they are not major things...they are simply everyday little things. I am sure you know what I am talking about...I could create quite a list of trivial daily things.

The problem with getting side-tracked is that it often gets you even more side-tracked. It's like when you canoe down a river...and notice a little offshoot of that river...and decide to follow it....having no idea where you are going but the scenery sure is gorgeous! I remember when I canoed the Allegheny River prior to my senior year of high school. I did very little paddling but my friend and I often got sidetracked on all of the pretty little branches off of the river and we would take them. I enjoyed looking up at the over-hanging trees...the ripples of water over the rocks...it was so calming and peaceful. I think we canoed each little off-shoot we came across that entire afternoon. They were all gorgeous. Because we were off enjoying the "pretty places" we lost track of time and therefore were much later than the rest of our group arriving at the landing site. Oh, but the sites were so beautiful.

Life is like when I canoed that river. The things that get us side-tracked are often not "bad" things. They are simply things that we allow to take up our time. I once knew of a lady who would not only tithe her money to God but also her time. However much time she would work each week, she gave a percentage of that time to God somehow. I wonder what our lives would be like if we each not only had our quiet times with our Best Friend, but also tithed time to minister in one way or another for Him. It's something to consider.

God bless and keep you strong in Him!

~Peace~

2010-02-16T11:19:00.002-05:00

Lately, I have been focusing on inner peace...the peace that only God our Father can give. Having an overwhelming sense of His presence...my inner-most being has an assured calm. So many things around us can try to steal that peace....loss of a job...loss of health...loss of a loved one...world situations...the list is endless....

Peace and inner Joy go hand-in-hand. Joy is not a giddy happiness...Joy is a depth of whispered strength. Peace and Joy are alive in our spirit and are evident to those around us through our eyes, our expressions, our responses, and our over-all body language. When a person exudes Peace and Joy, there is a calm that draws you near to them...into who they are.

"When peace like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul..."

A river continues flowing...maybe not always at the same pace...but it flows forward...Peace is a lasting calm of being secure in Jesus...feeling His presence...His arms around us for hugs as needed...His calm, re-assuring voice....

When Peace and Joy remain in us through Jesus....our countenance is radiant....as the noon-day sun (says the Psalmist).

My prayer is that you will have His inner most Peace and Joy...that no matter what comes your way...you will be able to say...."It is well with my soul"...Jesus our Joy-giver and Hope who gives inner-most Peace be with you....may you feel Him abide in you as you continue on in His Word and communication with Him.

Grandma's Molasses Cookies~Memories

2010-02-09T10:57:00.002-05:00

~~the best molasses cookies EVER (soft)~~

2 c. brown sugar
1 c. shortening
2 eggs
1 c. molasses
1 c. sour cream
2 tsp. baking soda (put soda in cream)
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. cloves
salt (1 tsp?)
flour (it says in pencil 5 1/2 c. and in pen 7 to 7 1/2 c. You just have to see what gives the consistency you want)

Roll out with flour, cut in circles
Bake 350 for 10-12 minutes

As a girl, my sisters and I would visit grandma during the summer and she always had these cookies made for us when we arrived. They are a wonderful memory I have of my grandma (who is now 97 as of Dec. 16, 2009).

Grandma would always share childhood stories as we sat on her bed at night and listened. Creating memories for our loved ones is very important. I want my boys to remember the loving as well as the fun things I did with and for them. Grandma will forever be remembered for the times we made her take out her false teeth...the times she told us of how when she was a girl she would ride a horse and buggy to school...there are many stories she told...and many precious memories of gardening with her...her trying to teach me how to use a sewing machine ( I still don't sew)...her sweet laughter...and the way her eyes sparkle when she laughs.

The cookies are a "sweet" reminder of Grandma. My prayer is that I leave a "sweet" lifestyle reminder to those who know me...especially my boys.

Quiet Monotony

2010-01-28T11:39:00.002-05:00

I came across a quote today that caught my eye: "The monotony and solitude of a quiet life stimulates the creative mind." Albert Einstein

The monotony and solitude of a quiet life also stimulates the spirit. In Isaiah 30:15b it reads, "in quietness and trust is your strength..." I would have to re-think Einstein's quote as the quiet life in the spirit is far from monotonous. Quietness is too often trampled on by our daily occurrences. There is the "norm"...daily routine that most have...but often the "norm" is interrupted.

Are we inwardly prepared for interruptions? Let me first begin by saying I believe "quietness" spoken of here is not only non-verbal but also quietness is a "presence" or "attitude". Quietness is being settled...assured. I get energy from being around a person who has the quiet assurance. Their hope truly is in the Lord. When the world crashes in around them, they are not shaken because they know the One who is in control. They understand that life happens. Things beyond human control...happens.

They possess the spirit of quiet trust. We often think of the little old lady who has the inner spiritual strength we crave. If only her quiet strength would somehow "rub off" on us. Quiet strength...as physical strength...is not achieved in an instant.

Quiet strength is developed by spending time reading the Bible, talking to Jesus, and letting our soul (spirit) rest in Jesus. That way when our world crashes in...we can lean into Jesus...looking up to Him...our faces shining with His glory...a peace in our hearts that shows on our countenance and in our attitude.

May the peace of Jesus become part of who you are as you take the time to communicate with Him daily...quietly trusting and resting in Him.

Challenge: Look for opportunities to see others through the eyes of Jesus

2010-01-07T09:24:00.001-05:00

Jill Briscoe~December lesson

2009-12-26T08:33:00.003-05:00

~~Taking a Holiday Break...letting Jill Briscoe speak here~~

Jill's December J-Mail

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Jill spent much of her time on her recent ministry trip to India barefoot. It wasn’t that her shoes were lost with luggage or that she was enjoying a warm sandy beach. She was teaching a sanctuary full of Indian seminary students, and custom required that she remove her shoes before entering. Interestingly enough, her last teaching centered on Moses and his encounter with God in the burning bush, in which He told Moses to remove his shoes because he was on holy ground. In Jill's J-Mail, she teaches this lesson from Moses: God will use flawed people (like Moses and us!) to do His work if we are willing to bow before Him, barefoot, in awe and reverence.

Barefoot in My Heart

Stuart and I recently finished teaching hundreds of missionary and pastoral students who were in seminary training in India. My last message in chapel concerned Moses and his renewed call to service after 40 years in the wilderness. Read the account in Exodus 3 & 4.

The bush burned with fire and yet was not destroyed, and Moses turned aside to see this strange sight. When The Lord saw that he turned aside to see. He called to him out of the bush: “Moses, Moses! Take off your shoes for you are standing on Holy ground.” The fire in the bush was the fire of God.

A divine conversation ensued that had worldwide repercussions for the Kingdom of God on earth! Moses was feeling sidelined, defeated, shamed and guilty. He had killed a man and fled from Pharaoh’s wrath. God had gone to much trouble training Moses in Pharaoh’s palace for his life work: delivering the children of Israel from bondage and taking them to the land promised to Abraham.

But the devil attacked Moses through a character weakness. Temper! In fact, all through his long life, he was brought low through an uncontrolled temper! He literally broke the Ten Commandments because he lost his temper! Read about it in Exodus. You always break the Ten Commandments when you let your anger control you instead of you controlling your anger!

This led to self-imposed exile while the people of God suffered incredible brutality at the hands of the Egyptians. But failure is never final for the servant of God. So one day, the Lord, concerned with His people’s suffering and wishing to deliver them, met Moses in his dry and barren place of failure and defeat, and the great adventure began. We thought about Moses’ story as I spoke about the students and the call of God on all of our lives and the fact that failure along the way is never final for the believer.

This is India, so according to custom, I slipped off my shoes every time I entered the sanctuary for the lectures. I lived barefoot in those days. Teaching the students barefoot greatly focused my attention on the story of Moses and the burning bush where God renewed his call and commanded him to take off his shoes because he was standing on holy ground! I’ve thought of the many lessons that I, the teacher, (and hopefully the students) have learned!

It is only when we live barefoot in our hearts that we will hear our renewed calling to ministry. It is only when we live barefoot in our hearts that we will know the true fear of God and be suitably afraid of the great God we serve and wish to obey his calling however hard it is. And it is there, barefoot in the presence of His holiness, where He will give us the courage to go where He wants us to go and do what He wants us to do.

Here is a prayer I wrote at the end of my talks. The words were left with the students so they could make them into a song and remember the lessons of the bare feet.

Barefoot I bow at this altar of grace,

Barefoot and humbled with tears on my face.

Ashamed and repentant I hear the Lord’s voice

Barefoot and humbled He gives me a choice.

Holy the ground where the promise is made

Keep the fire burning Lord don’t let it fade.

Help me obey You despite all my fears

Help me to serve You the rest of my years.

Barefoot accepting Your plan once again

Give power for my fainting heart, peace in my pain.

Deal with the darkness give strength for my days

Barefoot and humbled I offer you praise!

Barefoot I bow at this altar of grace,

Barefoot and humbled with tears on my face,

Ashamed and repentant I respond to your call

Barefoot and humbled I give you my all!

Why not stand before the Lord? Slip off your shoes, wherever you are.

Listen! Can you hear your name? He’s calling you. What will you say?

Thank you for partnering with us,

Jill Briscoe

Gone Fishing~~Charles Swindoll

2009-12-03T10:32:00.001-05:00

by Charles R. Swindoll
Acts 7; 17

Billy Wilder, the great movie producer, openly admitted: "I have a vast and terrible desire never to bore an audience." With tacit agreement Jack Parr once declared: "The greatest sin is to be dull."

Those two statements ought to haunt anyone who regularly practices the fine art of communication.

Communication is a competitive field. Like it or not, the teacher, writer, speaker, or preacher contends with ABC, NBC, CBS, CNN, Rush Limbaugh, magazines, paperbacks, CDs, the theater, the cinema, the thrilling excitement of sporting events, and a zillion other attractions. Pity the missionary whose mimeographed letter arrives in the same mail with Sports Illustrated or Newsweek. God help the Sunday evening services across America that do battle with 60 Minutes and Masterpiece Theater.

Today's communicator faces a stiffer challenge than ever before. This means that we who communicate Christ must work especially hard at winning and then maintaining a hearing. This doesn't mean we need to put on a better show or shout louder or attack our competition. What it does mean is that we must meet at least three demands.

We must be prepared. Basically, it necessitates doing our homework. But it also means we must determine what ought to remain behind the counter, held in reserve, and what ought to be placed on display. It's the art of verbal economy.

We must be interesting. We must paint verbal pictures for the uninitiated, preoccupied mind to see. To do this we need energy, subtlety, relevance, and changes of pace.

We must be practical. Communicating the Scriptures is more than dumping out a truckload of biblical facts; it means using those facts to meet practical, everyday needs.

Communicating is like fishing. We need to provide the right lures and bait to attract our listeners.

Check out Paul's address on Mars Hill (Acts 17) or Stephen's defense before the Council (Acts 7) or Jesus' great sermon on the mountain (Matt. 5-7) or His conversation with Nicodemus (John 3). Not a rusty hook in the bunch!

Funny thing about fish: They keep their eyes open even when they're bored and sound asleep. Myopic communicators tend to forget that.

When we communicate Christ, we are like GE: We bring good things to life.

"How Are You?"

2009-11-22T14:00:00.002-05:00

Have you ever really thought about the words that come out of your mouth? How often to we greet someone with the (usually) meaningless question, "how are you?"

I have had people come up to me, big smile across their face, shake my hand or hug me and say, "how are you?" If they haven't already moved on to the next person they have their eye on, I will look at them and ask, "do you really want to know?" Sometimes I get an answer; sometimes I don't.

If someone honestly wants to know how I am at that time, I will tell them HONESTLY how I am. Of course if it is a stressful day, I won't give details I will simply respond, "stressed".

People have told me, "well, people really don't care how you are....it's just a greeting." Okay, so if one genuinely does NOT care how I am...why not just shake my hand or hug me and say, "I hope your day is going well." THAT would encourage me.

We need to seriously consider our "caring" for others. Yes, I know that Jesus is the only One who truly cares for us, but sometimes taking that extra 10 minutes or so in our (and their) busy life will bless and encourage someone.

Next time you greet someone, try to come up with something encouraging to say. Take a few minutes of your time to listen and truly brighten some one's day. You may be the only encouragement they receive that day (or even that week).

Be Blessed and Stay Strong in Him!
~~Lariann

2009-11-10T10:53:00.003-05:00

Today as I read the bible...online...I was encouraged and challenged in reading the following passages.

4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, 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. 8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things.

12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

Philippians 4: 4-8 and 12-13.

So much is packed in this set of verses! I think what I will do is go over this daily this week to let it all sink in and I will write daily thoughts as they come to me from this passage.

It is easier for me to read the Bible online and journal online. What I am using is:

https://penzu.com/p along with the bible study tools I have already posted.

Penzu is a private online journal. You can post pictures if you want, print it, and simply save and store what you write.

I encourage you to read the passages above and journal your thoughts about them either in a notebook or online journal.

God Bless and Keep you Strong in Him!
~~Lariann

Bible Study Tools

2009-11-10T10:15:00.000-05:00

Something you may want to check out:

http://beta.biblestudytools.com/

Bible~Journaling

2009-11-07T11:36:00.002-05:00

If any of you are interested in reading the Bible online AND keeping an online journal...I found a really great site.

http://www.biblejournals.com/

When you read to the bottom of the "Welcome" you will notice that you can click to "register". Simply explore the site and get familiar with the different things it has to offer.

God Bless and Keep you Strong in Him!

Lariann

Bagels and Tea

2009-10-24T09:22:00.002-04:00

The title has nothing to do with the topic. Have you ever had a day like that? You wake up, stretch, roll out of bed...feet on the floor...to begin your day how you THINK it will go. You stumble to the kitchen, put on the tea kettle or coffee pot...your mind sifting through the day's activities....

Sitting down to sip and savor your hot drink...you begin your conversation with God...you wake earlier than everyone in your house simply for this reason...a quietness with your Best Friend. Something interrupts it today...your child, spouse, unexpected phone call....it just seems to get worse throughout the day...more interruptions and unexpected occurrences...you can't seem to get a grasp of your thoughts. What were you and Jesus talking about earlier this morning? Sighing, you whisper a prayer asking for a little break to meet back with your Best Friend when things settle down.

The day doesn't settle down...kids come home from school with stories of the day, spouses need to vent from things going on at work, the dog gets sprayed by a skunk, toilets over-flow....as you return to your sitting position that began early in the morning...you realize it is evening...you never were able to return to Jesus for solace and rest.

Mentally talking to Jesus, you tell Him you have no idea where your day went and pray that you can have that coveted time with Him tomorrow.

Sometimes it seems our hectic days continue...and some things are simply out of our control. Somewhere in the stillness of the night we need to return to our quietness with our Best Friend. He is the One who truly understands our heartaches, needs, desires...We need His rejuvenation.

Tomorrow, begin again and this time put on some inspirational Christian music as soon as you can...the words of the songs....no matter how the day goes...will uplift and inspire you...if not music...try something that will give you peace of mind and spiritual energy.

Jesus told us, "Come to me all you who are burdened and weary, and I will give you rest. " (Matthew 11:28 NIV)

May you be able to find rest in Him even on your most hectic days.

God Bless and Keep You Strong in Him~~
Lariann

VOICE OF TRUTH with lyrics

2009-10-15T11:12:00.001-04:00

Gladness of Heart

2009-10-08T10:44:00.003-04:00

"A cheerful heart is good medicine...." (Proverbs 17:22a "she" (the woman of noble character)"can laugh at the days to come (not stress over them) She speaks with wisdom..." Proverbs 31:25b, 26a (NIV)

Do I even need to add more to that bit of truth? It seems it is next to impossible to have a cheerful heart during these days of a bad economy and a variety of other issues. Some may be more personal...deep down inner feelings of: anxiety, incompetence, or simply a hectic life...it can be difficult to have a cheerful heart.

"Cheerful"~~to be glad. "Glad"~~Experiencing or exhibiting joy and pleasure. So, how can we be joyful during these times? The lady of noble character can "laugh at the days to come" because she has her hopes and faith in Jesus.

Sometimes, humanly speaking, that doesn't seem to be enough...hoping in Jesus. He is not "tangible" so to speak. So our hearts cry out for joy...to be glad. That is when we realize that we need to take more time to be with Jesus...the Creator of joy and gladness of heart. When we communicate with Him more...he will show us how to cast our cares on Him and truly be able to "laugh at the days to come".

Taking quality time to be in prayer and in His Word is essential in order to truly have a cheerful heart. Dwell on His hopes, His promises, His divine word. And listen...be quiet with Him...yes pour out your heart to Him...but also take the time to listen to what He has to say to you. "In quietness and confidence is your strength" (Is. 30:15b). Rest in Jesus then you will find that you can be joyful and that joy will spread to those around you...they will feel your quiet, joyful, trust...in Jesus. You will be able to lift your head high to Him; smiling as you do and that cheerful brightness will not only keep you glad but it will encourage others.

Shine with gladness!

Third Day - Blessed Assurance

2009-09-27T21:09:00.001-04:00

Monday morning, September 28, 1998, my dad left his failing earthly body and ran into the open arms of Jesus. This was his favorite song...and when I asked him what songs he wanted at his funeral, he grew teary-eyed as he told me he especially wanted Blessed Assurance.

Steven Curtis Chapman "Heaven Is The Face"

2009-09-23T20:42:00.001-04:00

Beautiful song and tribute to his little girl who is in Heaven waiting for him.

Epitaph

2009-09-17T09:57:00.002-04:00

It seems that almost weekly a celebrity passes away. The announcements are all over the news...web sites...and social networks as people remember the various accounts of their lives and what made them famous.

People pass away...daily. Some go un-noticed as they are "mere bodies in allies". Some people will leave their "mark" forever in our minds...whether the memory is good or bad.

Death is part of life.

Some humorous epitaphs:

Here lies an Atheist
All dressed up And no place to go.
In a Thurmont, Maryland, cemetery

Here lies the body
of Jonathan Blake
Stepped on the gas
Instead of the brake.
Memory of an accident in a Uniontown, Pennsylvania cemetery

Here lies
Ezekial Aikle
Age 102
The Good
Die Young

"The best is yet to come."
Frank Sinatra

"This is the last of Earth! I am content!"
John Quincy Adams (1767 - 1848)

What could be used as your epitaph? I am not trying to be morbid. But lately I have been noticing that so many people are so wrapped up in themselves that they have forgotten about compassion, generosity, listening; simply how to be a true friend.

We focus on our stresses...our various issues in life. There is NO doubt that they are real. Take them to Jesus. Dump all of your cares on Him...then he will free you up to truly be there for others. He tells us to cast all of our cares on Him. So, obey Him and do just that. I believe He tells us that for a couple of reasons...1. He cares and will help us through; 2. So that we can be less selfish.

Selfishness is a struggle for us all. What will you be remembered for? First, have the relationship with Jesus...because there is no chance in eternity to change your destiny...then build relationships with others.

My prayer is to have a truly meaningful "epitaph" on the hearts of those I leave behind.

Mixed Emotions

2009-09-06T07:48:00.002-04:00

It is with a sad and glad heart that I write this. For those of us with kids attending the public schools in Michigan, we will be seeing them return to school Tuesday, September 8th.

Once again the school morning "rush hour" will begin. We will wake our children, have breakfast with them, and see them off to school. Some of us may walk or drive them on the first day...or see them off on the bus. It will be with mixed emotions I am sure. We are sad to see them go as we enjoyed our time with them so much during the summer months...yet...we are glad to see them grow up and learn.

The house will be quiet. We may enjoy that as during the summer it was "humming" with voices and laughter of our kids...and ALL of their "busy-ness". Honestly, I shed a few tears every first day of the school year. I love to be home with my boys. I enjoy the conversations, being outdoors with them, playing basketball with Jesse, having Caleb's friends over...all of it.

So now we must encourage our kids this school year. We need to keep their focus not only on doing the best that they can in school but also to build relationships that matter. We need to encourage them to be friends with those who are not the most popular or well-liked student...students who need a real friend.

We need to encourage them to defend their beliefs in a manner that will be taken well by their educators. Having an open communication with our kids will help them when they need to talk about an issue they are having with a teacher or a topic that is being taught. Our kids need to be well-informed...and know that as Proverbs says, "a soft answer turns away wrath". In saying this, I am suggesting that your kids KNOW and be INFORMED of what they may have issues with in learning...but to then confront the issue with the teacher or other students in a manner that will be stressing their beliefs and knowledge in a non-confrontational way.

I encourage you to find the time with your child after he/she gets home from school to listen to how their day went. Each child needs time to "unload". I also encourage you to find time for family prayers and looking into The Word of God.

May you have a blessed school year. I pray that our children are safe in our public schools...safe: physically, mentally, and emotionally. That is how I pray for my boys...for God's protection in ALL of those ways. (not necessarily always in school but throughout life).

May God Bless and Keep you Strong in Him!

Facebook

2009-08-15T09:21:00.003-04:00

We now have a ladies' group on facebook. If you have a facebook account and want to be a part of our ladies' group, please join GFMC Ladies. This group is about planning and DOing activities, posting comments on the wall, sharing prayer requests within the group etc. Anyone can post a comment or share a picture with us.

The group may or may not be real active but we will strive to be encouraging and uplifting.

God Bless and Keep You Strong in Him!

~~Lariann

Away

2009-08-14T11:06:00.002-04:00

I had no intentions of taking so long to get back writing this blog. After writing the last article, we were off to family camp at The Hills. We came home with our missionary friend, Becca Doyle, to our messy home.

Our house has been remodeled this summer...walls freshly painted and new linoleum throughout most of the house. I love the "face lift" and TRULY appreciate the volunteers who have given so much of their talents and time. The mess is slowly getting cleaned up. The disorder has pretty much put my mind in more of a disorder also.

Following the return from camp, Phil was off for 5 days to Chicago. He and Doug Lewis went to the Leadership summit, which I was able to follow in facebook. When they returned, Phil did some more work painting the kitchen ceiling.

Now, we are planning a trip to Torch Lake. We will be celebrating our 22nd anniversary with our boys there beginning August 15 (our anniversary) through August 21.

I miss writing... and will begin again shortly after our vacation.

Enjoy the remaining few days of summer!!! May God bless you all and keep you Strong in Him!

Choose Life!

2009-07-18T16:38:00.002-04:00

I would have been a "good" Eve. I enjoy snakes...I like to watch them move...observe their tongues flickering...and imagine what it would be like to shed my skin every so often (yes I know that most dust in a house is dead skin).

They fascinate me. Moving so quickly and quietly the snake can slither past you without you ever knowing. I imagine Eve walking through the Garden of Eden...breeze blowing through her hair...toes feeling the lush grass as she walks enjoying the scenery....nothing could be better.

Along comes Seductive Satan...he doesn't slither...I picture him more like a skink at this point. The cute little lizard with that flickering tongue. Eve stands under a beautiful tree...digs her toes in the cool lush grass...and along comes Seductive Satan Skink crawling up that tree and resting on a limb near Eve.

The conversation begins...you know it well...Eve's toes wriggle in the grass as the two converse...Satan looks so sleek...his voice so soothing...the seduction begins...leading Eve away from her principles, faith, and allegiance...

"Did God REALLY say?....You will not surely die....Your eyes will be opened and you will be like God." (Gen. 3:1-5) Crafty isn't he?

The breeze blew tousling Eve's hair...she smiled as she tasted the fruit...it was the best fruit she ever tasted...and so she enticed her husband, Adam into tasting it.

The TRUTH revealed now...They noticed they were naked! So, they made clothes of figs.

They hid from God...as He called for them. Giving into our temptations causes us to hide in shame. We don't want to face our holy Lord. As Adam and Eve, we often start the blame game. "If my friend wouldn't have invited me to that party...I wouldn't have...."...."If my husband hadn't cheated on me, I would never have cheated on him"..."If my kids would have just listened to me the first time, I wouldn't have lost my temper and my 'vocabulary'..." "If my parents weren't alcoholics, I wouldn't have a drinking problem"...If....if...if we would own our sins....life would be much easier to handle.

We hide from God. Sometimes it is because we enjoy the sin too much and don't want to stop. Other times it is because we are so ashamed. We need to realize that we need to do an about face...and when we are ready...God will be there to take us back. We need to become so sick of our sin and see its ugliness that we long for our friendship with our only true friend~God~ and crave being with Him again.

If you are battling a sin...craving God yet also wanting to continue in your lifestyle without Him...take some alone time...talk things out...cry things out with God...repent...do an about face...hold onto God's hand...walk through that lush grass with your Best Friend. It may take some time to make this change...but God is faithful...He will not give up on you. Strike the heel of Satan (v. 15) and be Strong in Jesus. Keep the friendship with Christ fresh and growing. Choose life!

Quizzes

2009-07-01T09:33:00.005-04:00

I am a fan of facebook. I enjoy re-connecting with friends and relatives. Now I find myself getting caught up in taking personality quizzes that come across.

I see quizzes posted to my wall in facebook that others took...."What Plastic Army Guy Are You....What 80's Product Are You...What is Your Life Theme Song..."...the list goes on. Mind you, I am the type of person who loves to study behaviors...I always have been...and I am not sure why some opt to take these quizzes. Do they want to compare themselves with others...see if they are "better"? Do they simply enjoy filling out forms (answering questions)? Are they hoping this quiz reflects something hidden inside them? Or is it simply a goofy fun thing that is meaningless to them? (so why take it) Possibly they want others to see the results of the quiz they took posted to the wall of the other. Whatever the reason...the quizzes really are trivial and meaningless.

The "author" of each quiz is some person who merely wants to create for fun...which is all fine. Have you noticed that some of the answers to questions are VERY similar...or simply there is nothing describing what you would truly answer so you just choose one?

This makes me pause and reflect. I am taking a quiz DAILY. The only One to come up with the quiz I should be concerned with is Jesus. I am given choices, questions, and possibilities of different outcomes...as I go about my daily life.

Comparing myself to people of the Bible and how they each handled life is what I should focus on. Moses...was not much of a speaker, but was used by God to lead people for 40 years. He had to tolerate all of their mumblings and grumblings for years. I can't imagine dealing with negativity that long. It makes me think that Moses had to escape with God often. Then there is Jonah...God wanted him to give a life saving message to the people of Ninevah. Jonah hated the people of Ninevah. He chose to run away (how often I feel like running away) and as a result spent time alone with God in the belly of a huge fish. After being burped up onto land and smelling nasty...Jonah finally obeyed God. Sometimes we choose to go through some stinky experiences as we choose not to obey God also. Esther was an awesome lady of God. She was wise and heeded the advice of her cousin...not thinking she could do everything on her own knowledge. Esther was born..."for such a time as this"...and was used by God because she was obedient to save her people.

There are so many people of the Bible we can learn from and study the characteristics. I challenge you to take the time this summer to do a character study on various people written about in the Bible. Write the positive and negative things about them. How did they handle people? How did they handle adversity? Compare yourself to them. THEN study the FOUR GOSPELS. How does Jesus compare? What were the qualities and characteristics of Christ? How did he treat individuals? Compare yourself to the One worthy of following.

In this quiz of life...it is only the END result that will matter. Our personality "quirks" will reflect who we truly are in Jesus.

HE WILL CARRY YOU by STEVE GREEN with lyrics

2009-06-27T19:48:00.001-04:00

This song is dedicated to Michele Hawks. Please keep her in your prayers.

Great Sites

2009-06-07T14:30:00.004-04:00

I want to share a passage from a Bible passage site:

Psalm 100 (New International Version)

A psalm. For giving thanks.

¹ Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.

² Worship the LORD with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.

³ Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his ^a]">[a] ;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

⁴ Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.

⁵ For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations.

I love that passage...but also want to encourage you to use www.biblegateway.com if you find it's easier to read here at your computer. You can choose the version of your preference. Check it out sometime.

There are also two very good sites for devotionals and more. Check out:

www.crosswalk.com and

www.oneplace.com

God bless and keep you strong in Him!

Memorial Day 2008 - A Tribute

2009-05-24T07:26:00.001-04:00

Remembering those who serve and served our country

Revolution

2009-05-19T12:59:00.003-04:00

I was watching a Christian television network this afternoon and "Enjoying Your Life" with Joyce Meyer came on. As always, Joyce had some very insightful words to share and I'd like to pass some of what I learned from what she shared on to you here.

Joyce spoke about a "Revolution" being a radical movement within. We don't need a revival. We need to radically change...move! In 1 Thessalonians 5:15-16 it reads, "See that no one returns evil for evil; rather, always seek what is good (both) for each other and for all. Rejoice always."(NAB) The word "seek" is stronger than just "looking for". It means to crave, passionately pursue, to go after with all of your might.

Too often we find it easy to "seek" good for someone who is on our "A" list or someone we know to be a good person. This passage does not merely mean to pursue what is good for a nice person; someone easy to like. We must CRAVE good for the one who has betrayed us, the one who wants to continue in a life of sin, the one...who in our own understanding, is unlovable. Crave and pursue good with all of your might for EVERYone!

How do we go about being able to carry this out? In Colossians 3:12 it says, "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience" (NAB)Heartfelt compassion...that is LOVE. How do you clothe yourself physically? Do you put care into it? Most often wanting to look and even smell your best? Do you take that much time "putting on" your spiritual self? We need to put MORE care into "dressing" our spiritual self than into dressing our physical self. Radically love! Choose to encourage at least 3 people every day before the sun sets.

In continuing your personal revolution you must also focus on James 5:16, "Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The fervent prayer of a righteous person is very powerful." (NAB) We do need to confess our sins and pray for each other. A fervent prayer simply means...passionate...powerful...with great intensity. There are those who pray for very long periods of time. God bless them! But some of us find that we can pray fervently in shorter, precise prayers. Whichever you believe works for you to stay in passionate communication with our Lord, by all means stick with it. I find it easier to pray shorter, powerful prayers to God during the day.

My prayer is that we pursue our spiritual revolution...craving to do good to ALL...clothing ourselves in Jesus' love daily...and...intensely communicating with God as we live and breathe throughout the day.

Refreshed to Reflect

2009-05-16T06:20:00.006-04:00

There comes a time in every one's life when your entire being needs to be refreshed....body, mind, and soul. When we are not able to "refresh" it begins to show like a computer monitor that gets stuck in the same mode. It sort of "freeze frames".

Of course we all know to set aside little pockets of time to be alone with God and simply gather ourselves together mentally so that we can survive bodily and in our soul. Our souls are so much more than just getting little pockets of time. Our souls need gaps of time.

Recently I was able to get away for a night. I have been married nearly 22 years and this is the first time that I have allowed myself to and been able to get away...totally alone. I rented a hotel room for the night. After checking in, I went to the lake (alone), sat at a table and talked with God about how gorgeous it all was there. I went to dinner then back to the hotel room where I began to relax. I crashed...and I mean crashed...for nearly two hours. I awoke around 9:30 and decided to really BE with God.

During the next hour or so, I had a wonderful time with Jesus, truly my best friend whom I need to be alone with much more often. I really didn't know where to turn to in the Bible but I did know that I wanted wisdom. Where do you look for wisdom in the Bible? Proverbs of course. I turned to Proverbs 31.

Some of the verses really stood out to me:

²⁵ She is clothed with strength and dignity;
she can laugh at the days to come.

²⁶ She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

²⁷ She watches over the affairs of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness.

Strength and dignity...She has that innermost beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit later spoken of in the New Testament. Laughing at the days to come simply means that she does not worry about tomorrow for today has enough cares in itself.

Look at this women in the mirror. What does she look like? I picture her as a lady who takes care of herself; looking the best that she can (if you read the entire passage it tells of how she dresses herself). I imagine a look of gentle confidence in her eyes...a comforting and friendly smile on her face...and I imagine that she IS noticed...not because she is a "hottie" but because she is confident in who she is in Jesus. Her entire being exudes His being.

She acquires her wisdom from the Lord so that faithful instruction can come from her. That is why she is respected. She does not get caught up in things that really don't matter. She prioritises. THAT is something that stuck out to me. I do get up early for tea and quiet time...but other things...even caring for myself as my body is the temple of the Holy Spirit...therefore it is a reflection of Jesus.

I pray that you are able to truly take time to get refreshed in Jesus. Quiet your mind and spirit...listen to Him...talk with Him...rest in Him....reflect Him.

How Great Thou Art, Worship Video with lyrics

2009-04-28T13:06:00.001-04:00

Just a reminder...you can sing along if you wish

"Friend"

2009-04-21T13:56:00.003-04:00

Facebook, Myspace, Twitter, and so many more social sites. We all want to be connected to someone.Even the most introverted person wants some sort of human connection. We long to be "in touch". We crave a sense of comradery.

When someone you haven't heard from in years suddenly finds you and "friends" you or you find them in a search, your heart fills with this sense of gladness and a big smile comes across your face. A long lost "pal" has been found. A friendship reunited.

Some of us connect with relatives we haven't seen in years. Some of us even connect with relatives we have never met. It is great to see how our families have changed, kids have been added, cousins have grown up....I realize how spread out we all our from each other. A sense of belonging fills my heart. I belong to these relatives as a family.

My mind begins to wander...if Jesus were on a social site...would it be easier to correspond with Him? It is simple to look over your site and drop a line or two to a friend. If Jesus were on a social site, would He feel more of a part of my life as I post my little thought for the day. Do I take the time now to communicate with Him in meaningful ways? Talking with him doesn't always have to be a long conversation. I enjoy little "bursts" of conversation with Jesus.

The thing about Jesus is that He is never a "long lost".....He is always easily there...to talk with...any time of day or night. Jesus is the Dearest One you could "Friend".

Hope

2009-04-08T10:43:00.002-04:00

This Friday we label as "Good Friday" because we know that Sunday (Easter) is coming! Jesus served and saved us. He was crucified...took on all of our sins...took on all of our pain...and died. If it ended there...life would have no reason...no hope.

There is an Eric Clapton song, "Tears in Heaven". Some lyrics:

"Would you know my name, If I saw you in Heaven, Would it be the same, If I saw you in Heaven. I must be strong, And carry on, Cause I know I don't belong here in heaven"

How hopeless...desperate. Because of Jesus we CAN have hope and we CAN belong in Heaven. Accepting Jesus...Believing in Him....Confessing our sins...totally turning from them to have a relationship with Jesus will give us our hope of "Someday" being with Jesus...BECAUSE of Easter...Because He lives...we can face tomorrow. We have hope.

"Someday" is posted in this blog as a favorite song of mine. Some of the lyrics are:

"You're my life and salvation, you're the Strength in me, you're my Inspiration, you're the Light that shines on me, Although I cannot see you, I know I've always felt you, So I will follow you and believe....Someday I know you're coming back for me, the one who loves you, Someday I know my heart and soul will be free, from the pain it holds onto....In times of desperation, I'm gonna cling to you, I'll find hope and protection, in the love that I've found in you...So I will follow you and believe..."

Jesus came that we may have life and hope abundantly! Praise the Lord!!!

Musical Savants - autism, blindness

2009-04-08T10:40:00.001-04:00

Two very Amazing guys!

Prayer

2009-03-09T14:24:00.002-04:00

Have you ever felt like you don't spend enough time in prayer? Or maybe, your prayers aren't meaningful because they aren't long enough? Take a look at the what Christ has to say; "When you pray, don't talk on and on as people do who don't know God. They think God likes to hear long prayers. Don't be like them. Your Father knows what you need before you ask" (Matthew 6:7-8, CEV). We don't have to talk for hours at a time. True there ARE times when we need to spend time in fervent prayer. Please don't misunderstand me.

Check out the example Jesus gives on how to pray; "You should pray like this: Our Father in heaven, help us to honor your name. Come and set up your kingdom, so that everyone on earth will obey you, as you are obeyed in heaven. Give us our food for today. Forgive us for doing wrong, as we forgive others. Keep us from being tempted and protect us from evil " (Matthew 6:9-13, CEV). This is often called "The Lord's Prayer."

How long did it take to say that prayer? Yes, we can expound on the Lord's Prayer. Use it as sort of an outline and add fitting words in between. Meaningful prayers can also be brief...they also get answered by Jesus.

Jesus tells us to pray continually. That simply means to keep in tune with Him. Have you ever told someone you would pray for a request they entrusted you with...only to totally forget about it? What I have started doing is simply praying as SOON as I hear the request. If it is in an email, I pray when I receive the email and then am able to send a response back to the person letting them know I prayed.(I just started this with emails) If it is by phone, I pray right then on the phone...in person...you get the idea.

Such prayers don't need to be wordy either. Jesus knows the need. It can be intimidating to think that we need to use a lot of words.

I want to encourage you to enjoy your prayer life with Jesus; few words or many, He hears our conversations with Him and responds as He knows best.

MICHAEL SWEET - Someday (w/sub)

2009-03-07T13:21:00.001-05:00

Micahael's wife passed away Thursday. This is a beautiful song I'd like to have sung after I go home to be with Jesus...at my Celebration of Life service.

Kept Woman

2009-02-26T09:32:00.000-05:00

Kept Woman ..........................

I Am a 'Kept ' Woman

You see, there were a few times when I thought I would lose my mind,
But GOD kept me sane (Isa. 26:3)

There were times when I thought I could go no longer,
But the LORD kept me moving (Gen 28:15)

At times, I've wanted to lash out at those whom I felt had done me wrong,
But the LORD kept my mouth shut (Psa. 13)

Sometimes, I think the money just isn't enough,
But GOD has helped me to keep the lights on, the water on, the car paid, the house paid, etc.., (Matt. 6:25 -34)

When I thought I would fall, HE kept me up.
When I thought I was weak, HE kept me strong! (I Pet. 5:7, Matt. 11:28-30)

I could go on and on and on, but I'm sure you hear me!
I'm blessed to be 'kept '

Do you know a 'kept ' woman?
If so pass it on to her to let her know she is 'Kept '

I'm "Kept" by the Love and Grace of God

Doom & Gloom~HOPE of Jesus

2009-02-21T08:39:00.003-05:00

It seems all of the news is full of doom and gloom. I listened on Fox News this morning as they counted how many times our President used the word "crisis" in a speech. I am not sure how long the speech was, but the word "crisis" was used 25 times!

In John 16, our Messiah, Jesus Christ gives us a message of hope. The "title" of the passage is, "Jesus Will Turn Grief to Joy" (NIV). My favorite verse in this passage is the very last verse when Jesus says, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (verse 33)

It is easy to become discouraged when we hear of all the the economic problems, the wars, etc. I laughed (not as a hardy ha ha laugh) as I watched the news the other day and someone wrote in complaining that they kept reporting negative news. Megyn Kelley of Fox said that they just report the news as it is happening. Doom and gloom seems to be the way of the world. We Americans like our Disney~fairytale endings.

I have had to re-focus my thinking. Yes, the world events...United States events, ARE gloomy. My mind flashed back to an old movie I saw when I was 5 about the end times, "A Thief in the Night." After seeing that movie, I was full of fear and worry as to what would happen prior to the return of Christ. I found those fears returning recently as I began to think, "Jesus, I don't want to be living through the times that were like that movie. I don't want to live through the money crash...all of the wars. I don't want to have to worry about the future of my boys." Well, I DON'T have to worry!

Jesus IS my hope! Jesus IS my future! Jesus IS my peace! In Matthew 6:34 Jesus tells us NOT to worry about tomorrow! We may go through tough times. We may experience many difficulties. We can take heart, sisters, because OUR Jesus, OUR Messiah is always right there along side us and HE has gone before us...to give us PEACE and he has OVERCOME the world!

~~Our dear Lord, Jesus, continue to remind us that YOU are our hope and our future. In you alone is our confidence and trust. You hold all in your hands and will carry us through. We love you whole-heartedly, Jesus! Amen.

Praise the Lord~Imperials

2009-01-29T20:02:00.001-05:00

I used to listen to this song often when I was in high school. It speaks for itself!

Whatever You're Doing (Something Heavenly)~~Sanctus Real

2009-01-24T14:32:00.003-05:00

It's time for healing, time to move on, It's time to fix what's been broken too long~
Time to make right what has been wrong; It's time to find my way to where I belong~

There's a wave that's crashing over me and all I can do is surrender

Whatever you're doing inside of me, It feels like chaos but somehow there's peace~
And it's hard to surrender to what I can't see, but I'm giving in to something heavenly~

Time for a milestone, Time to begin again, Re-evaluate who I really am~
Am I doing everything to follow your will or just climbing aimlessly over these hills?~

So show me what it is you want from me, I give everything--I surrender!

Time to face up, Clean this house, Time to breathe in and let everything out~
That I've wanted to say for so many years~Time to release all my held back tears~

Whatever you're doing inside of me~It feels like chaos but I believe~

You're up to something bigger than me, Larger than life, something heavenly~
Whatever you're doing inside of me, It feels like chaos but now I can see~
There is something bigger than me~Larger than life~
Something heavenly

(written by Matt Hammitt, Chris Rohman, Mark Graalman, Dan Gartley, and Peter Prevost/2008 Birdwing Music, Admin. by EMI CMG Pub., ASCAP)

Stethoscope

2009-01-10T18:48:00.001-05:00

This takes about 2 minutes to view...pretty interesting :)

Me and Phil

2009-01-07T09:46:00.001-05:00

Hair Product Soul Searching

2008-12-28T07:35:00.004-05:00

I read an interesting article in a magazine for women in ministry. The author was writing about being a control freak...but after reading her most interesting personality analysis...I decided to take a little bit of a different angle.

She suggests that we ladies often use hair products that "speak" for our personality. I laughed at that because I had just purchased a new shampoo by Bed Head called, "Manipulator". I know it is kind of odd to consider that our personality may coincide with hair products...but I began doing some self-evaluation.

Being the baby of the family of three girls, I never really thought of myself as manipulative. I thought of my "tactics" as means of survival amongst my two older sisters. My oldest sister, Cheryl, is the talkative Pollyanna who has a heart of gold. My sister who is four and a half years older, Connie, is the artistic one with a heart for people who would not be on my "friend" list. I was the baby. Everyone knows babies are manipulative, right? It is to be expected. We learn how to get our way in watching our older siblings, right?

I honestly never saw my "ways" as manipulative. At the age of 42, I am finally coming to grips with the fact that I learned how to turn "discussions" (or arguments). I had a blind eye to my own ways. I think that is my biggest source of manipulation. If there are other ways needing mending, God will show me.

Manipulation equals control freak?!?! So, I guess I am writing about control freaks. We all learn in our own ways means of controlling issues or people. The funny thing is, the hair "glop" that I use to get the look I want for my hairstyle is simply called, "flexible wax".

Flexible manipulator??? The flexible wax is on the outside...to help my hair look good. Whereas the manipulator shampoo is scrubbed into my hair. Do you see the picture here? Inside is the manipulator who appears flexible on the outside?

As I stated, it seemed a bit "far fetched" at first for me to look to my hair products as guides to my personality. I have been a bit vulnerable here in hoping to inspire you to do some soul searching. You don't have to look to your hair products to tell you about your characteristics. Simply look inside your heart letting Jesus show you who you are. Let him show you from the inside out the things that need changed.

Lord, Jesus, I pray that you will continue to show me attitudes or characteristics about myself that need changing. Lord, I have (fill in the blank, in my case, been a manipulator) _____________ for so long that I really have a hard time seeing that in me. Please help me to see how I truly am and help to change me from the inside out. My desire is to be the godly lady (wife, mom, etc.) that You want me to be. Jesus, I want to change my heart, mind, and soul for You. Thank you that you are so patient with me. I love you! In Your precious and holy name, Amen.

Turn Around and Shine

2008-12-20T07:08:00.003-05:00

We recieved a beautiful glass cross with a saying etched in glass behind it. It simply reads:

"When you turn to God, you discover He has been facing you all the time."

How true and how precious! "Then the righteous will shine like the sun..." (Mt. 13:43a I remember reading that verse when I was younger and longing for people to see His difference in me. I had always loved looking at those who you could sincerely tell had Jesus in control of their lives. Their countenance GLOWED. I wanted that glow of Jesus.

When we turn to Jesus, letting his face shine upon us, we will have His glow. My prayer is that Jesus will so shine through those who love Him and live for Him that all around us will see His Light and crave it.

Shine Jesus shine, fill this land with the Father's glory. Let your light so shine before men....

God bless and keep you strong in Him!

The Warrior is a Child - Twila Paris (Orig. 1984 Version)

2008-12-02T09:53:00.001-05:00

I have always loved this song as if it speaks for this "closet introvert".

Un-Wrap Your Gift

2008-11-30T15:22:00.004-05:00

I was talking with a friend the other day about wanting to write. The crazy thing is I have this passion for writing...and I know it is a God-given passion because of how it burns like a fire within me to write. So, then I say...well, what will I write about or where would I write? Should I just keep a paper journal? It seems easier to log it on the computer. Excuses? You betcha!

God has given EACH of us gifts and talents. Some He has given many; others a few. I don't know why he distributes as He does...He is the One in "the know". What are you doing with what He has given you? Do you know what your gifts and talents are? Do you know how to discover them if not?

Pray. Pray and ask God to show you what your talents and gifts are. Try new things. If it seems to be natural...it is probably a talent or gift from God. If not, keep trying new things.

If you already know your gifts and talents...Wonderful! USE them! Talk to God about how and where to use them then if you need to...get in touch with the right people to help put them to use.

I have different gifts and talents. Some I am using as easily as if I simply breathe. I started this blog as a means of using my writing abilities, but I believe I need to go a step further. Yes, I need to keep writing this blog...and do so at least once a week. But I also need to challenge myself to make the time to write. I need to write what is on my heart.

I won't make up excuses anymore. I will make the time and I will find the means...probably this computer because it is SO much easier for me to type than to hand write. In this "gifting" season, explore your gifts. Put them to use. Unwrap that wonderful God-given talent and begin using it. There are no more excuses. God's gifts are given with the soul purpose that they are specially "fit" for each individual. Show Him how much you enjoy the gifts/talents He has given you!

Diadem

2008-11-11T13:26:00.002-05:00

I was encouraged today. I am re-connecting with friends in facebook and am now re-acquainted with a friend from Titusville, PA. My friend, Tambra Werner-Sabatini has written a book for ladies. I haven't read her book; simply her blog. The bible verses that inspired her to write are beautiful when thoroughly grasped.

Isaiah 62:3 "You will also be a CROWN of BEAUTY in the hand of the LORD, and a ROYAL DIADEM in the hand of your God." A diadem is an older word for a type of crown. We ladies will be a crown of beauty and a DIADEM in our Father's hand. How are we to go about being such a lady? When I consider the ways, I think of Proverbs 31. That lady was a lady of courage, strength, and beauty. Let's reflect on her characteristics.

This lady who is the diadem in the hand of our Father is noble, trustworthy, ambitious, cares for her family and those around her, she knows how to juggle the check book and make the most of the family income, she is wise, she puts her all into what she does, she is hostess to the poor and needy in helping them out as she can, she is prepared, she likes to look her best, she helps her husband look good in the eyes of others, she is strong, dignified, and she laughs at the days to come which means she does not let worries get to her, she makes the most of her time, she is praised by both her children and her husband, and she fears the Lord. We can live up to these standards that she has set before us. Pray for her characteristics to be yours. Earnestly work on them. I encourage you to take the time and read Proverbs 31 beginning with verse 10 or simply take what I have listed here. Write down the characteristics and begin to pray and discern ways of truly owning them yourself. Then work at it with all your heart.

Isaiah 60:5 "Then you will see and be RADIANT, and your heart will thrill and rejoice (VITALITY); because the ABUNDANCE of the sea will be turned to you, the wealth of the nations will come to you. "

I am speaking here of your heart, soul, and mind. I also believe that our inner beauty should shine outward by way of our health, but writing about that is for another time.

My prayer is that as you read this, you will begin to own it. You will become that virtuous woman...God's DIADEM!

Sabbath-Rest

2008-10-29T10:17:00.002-04:00

"Therefore since the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it. For we also have had the gospel preached to us, just as they did but the message they heard was of no value to them because those who heard did not combine it with faith. Now we who have believed enter that rest just as God has said, 'So I declared an oath in my anger, they shall never enter my rest.' And yet his work has been finished since the creation of the world. For somewhere he has spoken about the seventh day in these words, 'And on the seventh day God rested from all his work.' And again in the passage above he says, 'They shall never enter my rest.' It still remains that some that will enter that rest and those who formerly had the gospel preached to them but did not go in, because of their disobedience. Therefore God again set a certain day calling it TODAY when a long time later he spoke through David as was said before, 'Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.' For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken later about another day. There remains then a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from his own work just as God did from his. Let us therefore make every effort to enter that rest so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience." Hebrews 1: 1-11 NIV

What a passage of scripture! When I was in high school I remember reading a book by Gordon McDonald, "Ordering Your Private World". He also wrote, "Restoring Your Spiritual Passion". In his books he emphasizes the NEED for Sabbath-Rest.

I know it is important that we gather with other Christians to worship on our "given Sabbath" day. We sing praises to God, hear the word of God, and fellowship with other believers. That is VERY important. For many of us that "given Sabbath" day is NOT a day of rest. There are many reasons that it is not a day of resting in Jesus.

Sabbath-rest is also a deliberate acceptance of personal rest and tranquility within the individual life. Sabbath means a rest that brings peace to the private world. We often take days of leisure but the choices we make on such days are not to focus on resting in Jesus. Our leisure is usually made up of some sort of activity....which we also need. Family time or time with friends is also important. We do not rest because our work is done, we rest because God commanded it and created us to have need for it.

We need to truly develop a Sabbath-rest time. A time to rest and refresh in Jesus. There are many ways to have this rest time and it may be different each time depending on your needs. I encourage you to set aside your needed Sabbath-rest period. It may be on the day you worship at church, but you need to set aside a given personal time weekly to truly be with your Savior. Please challenge yourself in learning more about Sabbath-rest. (I don't mean daily quiet times, I am talking about TRUE Sabbath-rest)

When we are fully rested in Jesus, we will have that renewal that only He can give.

Weariness

2008-10-21T19:06:00.005-04:00

Do you ever simply feel weary?

Weary: physically or mentally exhausted by hard work, exertion, strain, etc.; fatigued; tired: weary eyes; a weary brain.

Often I believe weariness is combined with lack of sleep, poor eating, stressful situations, or a loss. Lately I have been going over that "check-list". I am getting more sleep than I did last year at this time. I am eating better than I have in a while. I have had no loss. Am I simply weary over stressful situations? You bet!!!

Weariness. Isn't that something Jesus promised to take care of? "Come to me all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28) It is important for us to learn to "let go". I realize this is easier said than done.

Our minds can become so overloaded with even every day stresses...simple stresses. Or we allow stress of any kind to permeate our inner most thoughts. Yes, I mean permeate...to pass into or through every part of,to become diffused; penetrate.

When that happens...we break down. We feel totally out of control mentally and emotionally. Sometimes we become depressed. Most often we let loose and fountains of tears begin to flow. Tears help for a while. When that all-out exhausting crying is over...what then? Choices: look to Jesus or retreat into yourself. We know what retreating inward can do. I won't elaborate.

Looking to Jesus...We begin to pour our heart out to the One who loves us most! Sometimes we may not have the words, so it is then that we need to ask Jesus to speak to someone to pray for us. Earnestly plead with Him. It is important to REST in Jesus. Simply remain quiet in His loving embrace. Allow yourself to take the time to feel His hug. Let Him hold you! It took you a while to get to the place of feeling weary, so give the time to feel His peace. Quiet your heart...your innermost being. Listen to Him. Look to His word.

The weariness may dissipate or it may take time. Whatever the case, from here on remember to take daily time to turn your cares over to your Friend Jesus. Take the time. Discover the time of day that is best for you to be alone with your Best Friend. Maybe even make a cup of tea or coffee in which to sit, relax, and quietly confide in Jesus. Rest assured in Him.

Max Lucado's Prayer for the Tough Times

2008-10-14T16:44:00.000-04:00

Political talk...briefly

2008-10-12T07:35:00.004-04:00

Normally, I am not one to talk politics here, but in recent days I am becoming more inclined to believe that things need to be shared here and please feel free to leave comments.

I don't tell people who to vote for. If they want to know who I will vote for, I will let them know or they can simply look at my yard signs or the back of my van(smile). I simply talk issues. I have always known that voting is a privilege and I don't understand why some choose not to vote when in some countries that isn't even an option...to vote. I know it is too late to register if you haven't already.

This election, as all elections, is crucial. I say all elections are crucial because each president we have had has left a mark in history...good, bad, or ugly. History cannot be changed and we can only learn from it. It's amazing that more people, politicians included, don't take a lesson from the most awesome history book...the Old Testament of the Bible. That's for another writing. (smile)

I agree that we need to vote our conscience. My conscience tells me to vote for the candidate who loves life...and does not support partial birth abortion. I want to vote for a candidate who does NOT say that abortion is above his pay grade. My choice supports life no matter what! We may as well live in the old days of Rome if we choose to to kill innocent babies.

We need to be (if we haven't been already) in prayer for this election. We need to fight the spiritual warfare that is out there. People seem to forget that there is another world aside from the Earth that we live on. There are angels and demons and they are at war. We need to be on our knees! My challenge to you is to select a time of day EVERY day...as much time as you can....to pray! Pray the power of Jesus over this election. Pray that His will be done! Pray hard!!!

I believe that the power of darkness can be defeated if Christians keep the faith.(please know that I equate no candidate with darkness) Maybe you need to first pray that you have faith. Take care of that then (smile). Pray and keep praying! If God's will is to set certain events into place to speed His return then so be it! Pray for Christians everywhere to be strong in Him and to stand firm.

There is so much scripture that is coming to mind right now for me to use. I am sure God will lead you to the appropriate passages as you commit to praying daily for the election. I will leave you with...Pray without ceasing!

God bless and keep you strong in Him!

Whose I Am

2008-09-29T06:23:00.003-04:00

Sometimes it is little nuggets of truth that best stick in our minds. I was at a youth leaders' retreat this past weekend. There were very good speakers and they all had good things to share, but the session that remains in my mind was one in which there was only ONE bible verse shared...and expounded on.

Acts 27:23 "Last night an angel of God whose I am and whom I serve stood beside me."

Take a minute or more and think about that first part..."of God whose I am"; WHO I am in God. I am His when I choose to have a relationship with Him. What does it mean to be His? It means I have THE best friend who will always be there for me, always have compassion for me (yet He will cry) even when I mess up, always love me. He will ALWAYS BE there for me...with me.

Whose I Am
Created in Your image~
An image with so many facets.
You understand my weaknesses~
To strengthen me by your power.
Yours forever humbled~
Knowing you guide my way.
Steps I take behind or alongside You
As You hold my hands~
Sometimes giving me a little nudge.
Lord, my heart, mind, and soul~
I place in Your hands.
My heart with all emotions,
For You to gently protect.
My mind with all my thoughts,
For you to challenge and purify.
My soul with my innermost being and character,
For You to shape into Your likeness.
I am Yours, Lord Jesus.
You are God;
Whose I am!

Take some time today or throughout this week to sit down with your Best Friend, Jesus. Realize WHOSE you are in Him then you will understand serving Him keeps the relationship alive as applying this little Bible verse to your heart, soul, and mind gives you the confidence and assurance to go about your daily living.

FIREPROOF Teaser Trailer

2008-09-18T09:38:00.001-04:00

A movie you won't want to miss!

Just a thought: Friends

2008-09-14T12:00:00.003-04:00

I have always liked the song, "Friends", by Michael W. Smith. I realize it is older, but it still is so meaningful. Having a friend who is a Christian, someone who shares the heart of Jesus, is so important as we go about our daily lives. Friends touch our lives in various ways...leaving imprints on our hearts.

FRIENDS by Michael W Smith

2008-09-13T22:16:00.001-04:00

God allows people to enter our lives at various times....for His purpose. Each one leaves an imprint on our heart.

Email Address...keeping in touch!

2008-09-07T18:28:00.004-04:00

Michele Adams (Hawks) has a new e-mail address. She is living in Tennessee now. Her e-mail address is:

hawksmichele@yahoo.com

God Has His Reasons

2008-09-05T14:53:00.002-04:00

When I was going into 9th grade my dad was moved from Flint (Carman-Ainsworth school district) to Grayling. In my eyes, Grayling was in the "sticks" and there was absolutely nothing to do in that little town.

I never questioned our moves because part of me liked the fact that I could always re-invent myself each time I moved...although my true self always became evident. I had no problems making friends and soon became known as "smiley". I was friendly with all; the burnouts (80's term), the "play" people (those in school plays), the jocks, the "intellects", etc.

Grayling High School didn't offer much to those students who needed more stimulation to the brain, so a couple teachers got together to start a class for students who were more driven and goal-oriented. The students pretty much invented their own course of study...individual studies.

A few of us did end up in the same classes...including this "gifted class"...as it was labeled. There was one student, Damon Thayer, who was extremely goal oriented and knew exactly what he wanted to do in his life. He was already that true conservative young Republican. Another student was Tim Moore. Tim was more quiet and the behind the scenes type. Damon was "out there"...outspoken yet well-liked.

I was only at Grayling high school for three years as my dad was moved to Titusville, PA my senior year. During my time in Grayling, I "endured" the "sticks". I spent most of my free time writing or reading. The cool thing was, God allowed me to become friends with all types of students. Sure I was frustrated while I lived in Grayling, but I may have been frustrated anywhere.

Life moved on. Years later Tim Moore became our State Representative and Caleb shadowed him for a day. Amazing! God let me meet Tim Moore 20 plus years ago and now my son was connecting with him. I connected with friends from years gone by in facebook. Damon Thayer has met his goals and is now State Senator in Kentucky. We are keeping in touch and he is excited about Caleb's goals to be in politics now and in the future. Damon and I were pretty good friends in Grayling and I am encouraged that this friendship continues.

God had His reasons for my living in Grayling. Who knows but Him if it was for my son, Caleb, to connect with these two conservative politicians. I have always liked Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, Plans to give you a hope and a future." Father truly DOES know best!

Speak the Truth in Love

2008-08-26T11:05:00.000-04:00

Father has been speaking to my heart lately. I am learning that I need to speak His truth in compassionate, passionate boldness.

Lately there have been many friends in my life who are dealing with very difficult issues in their lives. Many of these issues are due to their not abiding by their convictions and listening to feelings and emotions. We cannot be guided by our emotions. When we give up what we know to be right, we are eventually faced with more hurt, hardships, and possibly deep depression.

Father has passionately grabbed hold of my heart telling me that people need to hear bold truth. I have always been one to "dance around issues"...especially when dealing with friends. I don't like confrontation. It is much easier simply to listen to what a friend shares of what they are dealing with...be the "sympathetic ear" while not giving much in the way of feedback. Anyone can be there for those needing an listening ear. A true friend...Christian friend...will listen, pray and speak.

Jesus does not want us to give our own "human" answers or advice. A person can get that anywhere and they do because it is easier to talk to people, even strangers, and not have to be accountable. Friends share things in sugar-coated ways at times. That is why we as the Christian friend need to be continually in prayer ("Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints." Eph. 6:18). We need to pray before we respond to that person who needs truthful, bold love...while we are responding (if writing pray during, if speaking pray as you listen to them)...and after we speak with them.

Telling the truth in bold love is difficult. We must remember to have the compassion of Christ...not simply saying what we think....His passion...our heart truly wants the best for the person we are talking with...and His boldness...He told people what they needed to hear.

We are imperfect people and we all fail at sometime in our life. Keeping an attitude of prayer will help us in our own situations and then we can boldly love those who need the wisdom that comes only in Christ Jesus...as we continue to keep on-going communication with Him.

I pray that Jesus will grab your heart to truly hear those around you and be the Jesus-Friend they need.

Resurrection Band Love Comes Down LIVE

2008-08-22T22:57:00.001-04:00

Rez Band began in the early 70's. They live in JPUSA (Jesus People USA) community, Chicago, IL. They may look a little rough but have hearts of gold for Jesus!

News Map

2008-08-20T06:58:00.003-04:00

The News Map has been added at the side of this blog. All you have to do is "hover" over an area with your mouse and click on which place you'd like to read about in the news. At times the article may not be in English. I am not sure why but I thought it was a pretty cool gadget to add.

Vacation

2008-08-11T07:12:00.002-04:00

I will be gone with my family to a state park this week. It should be a time of good relaxation. I cannot believe summer is coming to a close so soon. I am thankful for all the time that God allows me to enjoy with my boys while they are home during the summer.

I pray you have a wonderful week and are growing in Jesus.

God bless and keep you strong!

Lean on Me..and Push Against That Rock!

2008-08-05T22:28:00.004-04:00

I can't remember the entire song...I only remember a part of it..."when you come to the place that I am all you have, then you'll find I'm all you need." I think it is an older song sung by a gospel singer, Robbie Heiner...the title is, "Just Lean on Me" I believe. I smile as I write this as I remember my dad coming home from a conference where he purchased that cassette for me. It really wasn't my style to be listening to, but it was from my loving Dad.

I listened to it once in a while.How true it is. We all go through so many changes....so many ups and downs in our lives. We sometimes feel so alone...believing that we are the only person in the world ever to feel this way. I believe we go through these desert times in order to realize how much we truly need to lean on Jesus. Learning that He is truly our only Best Friend...the One who will always be there for us. Jesus is the one in whom we develop our confidence. He truly is the One we can rely on at any time.

Sometimes we need to be still...listen to only Him. Sometimes He allows us to struggle through our desert times hoping that we understand that He is our shoulder to lean on ...our shoulder to cry on...He is our strength.

I am reminded of a story I read long ago. It is lengthy but I am going to post it:

Pushing Against the Rock
By: Author Unknown

There was a man who was asleep one night in his cabin when suddenly his room filled with light and the Savior appeared. The Lord told the man He had a work for him to do, and showed him a large rock in front of his cabin. The Lord explained that the man was to push against the rock with all his might. This the man did, day after day.

For many years he toiled from sun up to sun down, his shoulders set squarely against the cold, massive surface of the unmoving rock pushing with all his might. Each night the man returned to his cabin sore and worn out, feeling that his whole day had been spent in vain. Seeing that the man was showing signs of discouragement, Satan decided to enter the picture placing thoughts into the man's mind such as; "You have been pushing against that rock for a long time and it hasn't budged. Why kill yourself over this? You are never going to move it? etc."

Thus, giving the man the impression that the task was impossible and that he was a failure.These thoughts discouraged and disheartened the man even more. "Why kill myself over this?" he thought. "I'll just put in my time, giving just the minimum of effort and that will be good enough." And that he planned to do until one day he decided to make it a matter of Prayer and take his troubled thoughts to the Lord."Lord" he said, "I have labored long and hard in your service, putting all my strength to do that which you have asked. Yet, after all this time, I have not even budged that rock a half a millimeter. What is wrong? Why am I failing?"

To this the Lord responded compassionately, "My friend, when long ago I asked you to serve me and you accepted, I told you that your task was to push against the rock with all your strength, which you have done. Never once did I mention to you that I expected you to move it. Your task was to push. And now you come to me, your strength spent, thinking that you have failed. But, is that really so? Look at yourself. Your arms are strong and muscled, your back brown, your hands are callused from constant pressure, and your legs have become massive and hard.Through opposition you have grown much and your abilities now surpass that which you used to have. Yet you haven't moved the rock.

BUT YOUR CALLING WAS TO BE OBEDIENT, TO PUSH AND TO EXERCISE YOUR FAITH AND TRUST IN MY WISDOM. This you have done. I, my friend, I will now move the rock."

Sometimes, I think that while we feel all alone in "pushing against the rock" and that no one understands our "burden"...those are actually the highlights in our life as they are the times that we also realize that God is our strength and Best Friend.

Awesome book for Men!

2008-07-29T08:42:00.002-04:00

Season of Life : A Football Star, a Boy, a Journey to Manhood by Jeffrey Marx, Robert Bender (Editor)
Hardcover
Average Customer Rating:
Read customer reviews Write a review
Details
Pub. Date: August 2004

Synopsis:

Joe Ehrmann, a former NFL football star and volunteer coach for the Gilman High School football team, teaches his players the keys to successful defense: penetrate, pursue, punish, love. Love? A former captain of the Baltimore Colts and now an ordained minister, Ehrmann is serious about the game of football but even more serious about the purpose of life. Season of Life is his inspirational story as told by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Jeffrey Marx, who was a ballboy for the Colts when he first met Ehrmann.
Ehrmann now devotes his life to teaching young men a whole new meaning of masculinity. He teaches the boys at Gilman the precepts of his Building Men for Others program: Being a man means emphasizing relationships and having a cause bigger than yourself. It means accepting responsibility and leading courageously. It means that empathy, integrity, and living a life of service to others are more important than points on a scoreboard.
Decades after he first met Ehrmann, Jeffrey Marx renewed their friendship and watched his childhood hero putting his principles into action. While chronicling a season with the Gilman Greyhounds, Marx witnessed the most extraordinary sports program he'd ever seen, where players say "I love you" to each other and coaches profess their love for their players. Off the field Marx sat with Ehrmann and absorbed life lessons that led him to reexamine his own unresolved relationship with his father.
Season of Life is a book about what it means to be a man of substance and impact. It is a moving story that will resonate with athletes, coaches, parents -- anyone struggling to make the right choices in life.

Camp Meeting 2008

2008-07-27T08:01:00.003-04:00

This past week was our church family camp time. I was dreading going this year. All I could think of were; people will come up to me and tell me all about my parents who are no longer alive, I will be sweaty and grimy feeling all week long even AFTER a shower, who knows how Jesse will be this week and I hope the people in church services keep their eyes to themselves when he blurts out as he so often does during a church service, and the list of negative thoughts continued.

This year we were also taking a friend of Caleb's. I wanted Caleb and Cody to have a great time because I remember how I looked forward to church camp...hanging out with other teens, going to the beach, and all of that fun "stuff".

Before leaving, I decided I'd better change my attitude or this camping trip would be a bust. We were going to stay in the 5th wheeler of our dear friend and although she invited us to do so, I hoped we wouldn't be too much of a burden. Caleb and Cody would be in a tent.

We pulled into camp Monday mid-day. Our "neighbors" whom we met last year were there with their smiles. "Okay, this will be a good week," I told myself. Amazingly, it was a fantastic week. I felt grimy after every 6:00 A.M. shower but after my morning tea...who cared? I found all kinds of people to socialize with....people I had not seen since last camp meeting. We took an afternoon to visit the cemetery where my parents were buried (it's an annual camp meeting thing we do). The cemetery is only 10 minutes away from camp.

I enjoyed the "Christian Family Community". It seemed everyone was in good spirits and I loved seeing the smiles! Poor Cody had a kidney stone Friday and Phil had to take him to the hospital. Those around our camp site knew about it. All went well for Cody and when he returned he was surprised at how many people asked him how he was doing and said that they had been praying for him...Christian Family Community...there is NOTHING that can replace it!

My last 6:00 A.M. shower seemed even more grimy. The air was more humid that day. I was glad to be able to be heading home for a "real" shower (we have a water softener). My body wanted to go home and get cleaned up, feel refreshed on the outside...but I ALREADY felt ALIVE and REFRESHED on the inside. I didn't want to leave my "Christian Family Community". I had ben ENERGIZED this week. It's kind of funny; I came home looking forward to next year. Sure the sermons by various pastors in our conference were good. The morning bible study was very insightful. I desire to be back, energized, in the community of friends and family who truly care and will miss the smiles...even in the early morning. The hearts of concern and compassion were so evident in my "Christian Family Community". The energy will continue on inside my heart as I look forward to next year and being surrounded by such loving people.

Work and Worship Not in Sync

2008-07-12T19:20:00.001-04:00

When your work and worship are not in sync, you need to hit the reset button. This concept can be seen in the story of Mary and Martha, for Martha became so focused on her work that she became out of sync with Jesus. When our body outpaces our soul, we will become out of sync with ourselves and become very miserable. This clip is part of the "Syncronized" sermon from the Theology of iPod series.

We are Human BEINGS not Human DOINGS!

See the clip of the message in the video below:

Work and Worship Not in Sync

2008-07-12T19:19:00.001-04:00

Leprosy on the Inside

2008-06-29T11:30:00.002-04:00

Many of us know the story of Naaman, the commander of the army of the king of Aram (2 Kings 5:1-15). We know that he had leprosy and leprosy was considered the "untouchable" disease. No one wanted to be near a person with leprosy for fear of getting it.

Naaman had to humble himself and wash seven times in the Jordan River (a very filthy river) in order to be cured of the leprosy. People must have seen this commander of the army bathing in this filthy water and wondered why such a noble man was not bathing in Abana or Pharpar (rivers in Damascas which were clean). Imagine the talk! Naaman came out of that filthy river fully cleansed.

Naaman had outer leprosy. Everyone could see it. People knew he was "unclean". What about those who have "inner leprosy". Appearances can be so deceiving. Talking the "Christian talk", doing the "Christian deeds"; in other words, keeping up "Christian" appearance. Such "leprosy" is not seen on the outside. It is so easy to hide our "secret" sins. People would have no idea that we are "unclean".

Inner leprosy needs a cleansing. Humbling ourselves enough to admit that we need to "come clean" and truly wanting to cleanse ourselves from the filth of our secret sin is necessary. It takes the desire and will to confess. Jesus is always there waiting for us to want to be cleansed through repentance...asking for forgiveness and totally doing a 180 and turning away from wanting to take part in that sin again. Bathe yourself in the cleansing forgiveness of Jesus. Come clean in Christ.

All I Want is You - Planetshakers

2008-06-15T07:47:00.001-04:00

A wonderful daily worship song!

Dum Spiro Spero

2008-06-15T06:57:00.002-04:00

I recently learned a Latin saying; "Dum spiro spero" (doom speero spero). Having learned its meaning, my mind began recalling scriptures and hymns that relate. In the Latin, "While I breathe, I hope," sounds so much more flowing than the English translation.

Breathing in Christ-likeness and hope should flow throughout our innermost being as we take in more of Jesus daily. As we breathe (go about daily life) our hope is in Jesus Christ. What a wonderful awareness.

As Christians, we know that we always have hope in Jesus...no matter what world events or personal struggles we experience. There is no need for me to expound.

Make "Dum spiro spero" your life "catch phrase".

Don't Look Back

2008-06-08T13:52:00.003-04:00

"But Lots' wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt." Genesis 19:26

I have never really studied Lot's wife. Like most wives, I wonder if she was the neck who turned the head. I wonder if some of Lot's "thinking" was due in part to her influence on him. Whatever the case, Lot ultimately made his own decisions. Lot's wife, like many of us who get used to living our own lives thought she would miss the "good" life.

When we first begin our relationship with Jesus we feel so free. The newness of change makes our hearts leap with joy. We develop our spiritual gifts, we share with others of our praises and concerns, our relationship with Jesus is open for all to see. There may come a time when stresses of life tear at you and you begin to give up hope. The "other land" looks so much better...so inviting. There is not much change in your heart and mind at first, but gradually your relationship with Jesus becomes less and less. You find things to fill the time you used to spend in prayer and Bible reading. Soon the things that used to be temptations to you are a part of your life. Like Lot's wife, you get used to an easy life of doing what pleases self.

There becomes an awareness in our lives that things somehow got out of hand. (Lot was ready to leave the land). I wonder if Lot and his wife argued about leaving. I wonder how much his wife struggled with letting go. We struggle...sometimes for very long periods of time. We know in our hearts what is right to do, but we so enjoy our life and the sin(s) we are living in that we simply struggle with doing the right thing. So, we try to make the choice...the right choice. It has to be our own. Lot could not make the choice for his wife. We say a prayer of forgiveness. We tell God we truly want to turn from the wrong life we are living. We step out to leave that "land". We go forward toward Jesus. Oh, but some of that lifestyle was just plain fun. Tears well up in our eyes because truly letting go and walking forward with Christ will be difficult at first. "But Lot's wife looked back, and became a pillar of salt." She did not want to let go. She chose to look back at what she would miss (so her mind told her).

Let us not be like Lot's wife. When we choose to turn from temptations we have given in to we need to truly be repentant...not looking back. My challenge to us is to do an "about face", always look forward, continue keeping a pure heart, stay truly repentant. In the long run, when our journey is over we will (with Paul) have won the race. Stay the course! Hold onto Jesus, He will lead you, walk alongside you, carry you, and always support you through anything you experience in life. Choose to walk forward!

Zip chijuajua

2008-05-31T13:17:00.002-04:00

I posted a picture of lil Zip, my pup. He was born November 5, 2007. Phil brought him home to me a while ago. I had been asking for a small lap dog for 2 years for Christmas. Phil kept saying..."we already have Lizzie" (our beagle/basset). So, I was pleasantly surprised when Phil came home with this lil pup for me....thoughtful of him. He was given to Phil by friends.

Zip gets along well with us all and brings lots of smiles and laughter. "Momma" Lizzie has accepted him and even looks out for him. He's a great lil pooch and I am so thankful God made animals for us to enjoy. LOL now my lovebirds, Bubba and Gidget are another story (smiles). Zip is a peppy lil pup we all adore.

Zip

2008-05-30T16:59:00.003-04:00

Fearfully and Wonderfully Made: Laminin...Awesome Message (about 8 minutes...dial up will take a while)

2008-05-29T19:23:00.002-04:00

At Peace

2008-05-15T20:48:00.004-04:00

I had this incredible sense of fear sweep over me the other day. I listen to the news. I watch mostly Fox News Network. Daily it is reported that there is another natural disaster...actually it is more like every few hours it seems. There are more wars, more rockets shot off, more bombs, shootings...there is more violence in the schools, malls, and streets.

Fear gripped me. Not only do I have to bring my young sons up in such a violent world but also how will I be able to afford it? Gas prices are horrible and because of them being so high, food prices are getting worse. Prices of everything are increasing. My mind and heart become overwhelmed.

I picture Jesse's sweet smile and sparkling blue eyes. I hear Caleb's voice in my head telling me all of his political aspirations. I fear for the future of my boys. Will they have a future? My heart aches.

Always appearing to be the hopeful mom of great faith...well it used to be easy to have faith. I wasn't faced with such harsh realities. I smile at my two young sons. Reassure them that God is still in charge of everything. Do I believe that? My head knows it but my heart, on the other hand, is crying. It cries for the mothers who lose their children in the war torn parts of the world. It cries for those who have lost loved ones due to natural disasters. It cries for dashed hopes and dreams of those dear to my heart.

Yes, God is in control. I know that. I have to stop my head from spinning in all of these negative thoughts. I pause. I weep. I cry out to God, "Lord," tears running down my cheeks, "I know you are in control. Jesus, I know that I should not fear. Father, God, please take this fear from my heart, from my soul by the power of the blood of the Lamb take it away." I sob. a wonderful sense of peace grabs my heart....my soul. Jesus is comforting my entire being. I feel His breath. He embraces me. "Thank you, Jesus," I whisper, "for your love, your power, for being You. Thank you for your strength."

I can continue on in life. I can listen to the news. Fear no longer has that stronghold on my heart and soul. Jesus has taken my fears, my heart, my soul and is holding them in His victorious hands. My God reigns. All I need to do if I begin to be fearful, is look up to Him, raise my arms, and ask for His amazing hugs of encouragement. The fear will dissipate. Our Lord Jesus does not want us to live in fear but in his perfect and satisfying love.

Pakep

2008-05-08T07:20:00.002-04:00

Many of you met our friend Pakep when he visited with Becca Doyle last summer. He is here in the states until May 18th and will be at Spring Arbor University next week. His home country of Myanmar has been destroyed by a cyclone and at least 100,000 are now dead. He has not had contact with his family as there is no way to contact them. He called us a couple days ago and his first question to Phil was,"how is Jesse?" Here is this man...husband...father...and pastor...and his first thought when he calls is about my son. Wow! What a wonderful and compassionate servant of Jesus! So unselfish!

Some friends of Pakep's are checking out the area where his family is and he hopes to know within the next couple of days how things are. Please remember to be in prayer for Pakep and his family and the people of Myanmar.

A Christian

2008-04-21T13:36:00.002-04:00

This was in a post in CafeMom:

A Christian

Several years ago, a preacher from out-of-state accepted a call to a church in Houston, Texas. Some weeks after he arrived, he had an occasion to ride the bus from his home to the downtown area. When he sat down, he discovered that the driver had accidentally given him a quarter too much change. As he considered what to do, he thought to him self, 'You'd better give the quarter back. It would be wrong to keep it.' Then he thought, 'Oh, forget it, it's only a quarter. Who would worry about this little amount? Anyway, the bus company gets too much fare; they will never miss it. Accept it as a 'gift from God' and keep quiet.' When his stop came, he paused momentarily at the door, and then he handed the quarter to the driver and said, 'Here, you gave me too much change.' The driver, with a smile, replied, 'Aren't you the new preacher in town?' 'Yes' he replied. 'Well, I have been thinking a lot lately about going somewhere to worship. I just wanted to see what you would do if I gave you too much change. I'll see you at church on Sunday'. When the preacher stepped off of the bus, he literally grabbed the nearest light pole, held on, and said, 'Oh God, I almost sold your Son for a quarter.' Our lives are the only Bible some people will ever read.

Always be on guard -- and remember -- You carry the name of Christ on your shoulders when you call yourself 'Christian.'

Watch your thoughts; they become words.
Watch your words; they become actions.
Watch your actions; they become habits.
Watch your habits; they become character.
Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.

His Essence

2008-04-20T11:56:00.005-04:00

My very dear friend, Becca Doyle, is a missionary living in Taiwan. Becca and I share many interests, one being teas. We enjoy the company of one another whenever she can be home in the states. On her most recent visit, last summer, she gave me a beautiful hand made necklace from the ladies in Taiwan. It is made of a black cord with tan and clay brown twists spaced apart. The base is mostly clay brown cord. Hanging from the cord is a tiny clay pot with a cork at the top. On the sides of this pot are beautiful pink flowers hand-carved of the layers of dried clay.

Becca explained to me that the tiny clay pot is used to hold fragrant oils in order for a lady to dab on perfume as needed. I treasure this necklace from my friend Becca, not only because it is from her but also because of what it means to me.

When I wear this necklace, I am reminded that we can be beautiful on the outside but how do we "smell" inside or are we simply empty inside. If we fill ourselves with the fragrance of Jesus, then we can "dab" some of Him on so that others will catch a whiff of His scent.

In 1 Peter 3:4 it says to be beautiful inside, with an unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit which is of great worth in God's sight. When we continue returning to His Word for guidance, we will have His essence for others to experience. I love the Proverbs 31 woman also. My favorite part of that passage is, "she laughs at the days to come." She does not let the worries and cares of today or tomorrow wear at her heart. She knows that Jesus will be alongside her each and every step that she takes. Because she can "laugh at the days to come", we are most certain that she fills her "little clay pot" with the Essence of Jesus "as needed" (which for most of us is often). Be beautiful with the fragrance of Jesus.

Sisters Because of the Savior

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Psalm 91

Psalm 91

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I Dare You to Listen!

you never let go, matt redman

~The Velveteen Woman~Crosswalk.com

~Intercessory Prayer~

~Psalm 51:1-12 (NIV)~with added

1 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions....I haven't been living up to what a follower of you is to be this past week...

2 Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin....Lord, forgive me for my un-Christlike thoughts...letting my mind be focused on things I know don't please You...forgive me for the gossip...the jealousy...my anger...and my bitterness...

~Boxing~

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!!!Exclamation Marks!!!

~Memorization~

Kutless- Smile

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Challenge: Look for opportunities to see others through the eyes of Jesus

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Jill's December J-Mail

Barefoot in My Heart

Gone Fishing~~Charles Swindoll

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Bagels and Tea

VOICE OF TRUTH with lyrics

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Steven Curtis Chapman "Heaven Is The Face"

Epitaph

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Away

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Psalm 100 (New International Version)

A psalm. For giving thanks.

Memorial Day 2008 - A Tribute

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Hope

Musical Savants - autism, blindness

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MICHAEL SWEET - Someday (w/sub)

Kept Woman

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Un-Wrap Your Gift

Diadem

Sabbath-Rest

Weariness

Max Lucado's Prayer for the Tough Times

Political talk...briefly

Whose I Am

¹ Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions....I haven't been living up to what a follower of you is to be this past week...

² Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin....Lord, forgive me for my un-Christlike thoughts...letting my mind be focused on things I know don't please You...forgive me for the gossip...the jealousy...my anger...and my bitterness...