January 15, 2012 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged advice, Bible, Christian, clean, concrete, direction, follow, follower, God, instruction, lime, love, oil, oil stains, remove, stone, whitewash
The Lord helped us remove oil stains from our driveway……!
For several years we have tried various products to get rid of large oil stains from our concrete driveway. Both our vehicles have leaked oil over time and left stains that seemed to be permanent. Well meaning neighbors and hardware store employees had given us their ideas and advice, but nothing was working.
One morning during my daily Bible reading, I read two passages in Deuteronomy 27 which referred to “setting up large stones, and whitewashing them with lime.” (Deut. 27: 2, 4)
The thought occurred to me – “could lime take out oil stains out of our driveway?” I decided to ask the computer this question and came upon a recipe for removing oil stains using lime and turpentine. My husband and I purchased the ingredients, followed the recipe and instructions (prayed over it) – and found out that it actually worked!
In our walk with the Lord, we sometimes think that God is not interested in such trivial matters as an oil stain. But we were reminded that our faith is not compartmentalized – it is a daily relationship with our Heavenly Father who loves us more than we can imagine. He cares about everything in our lives. We only have to ask Him for help – and then follow through with the directions He gives us.
By following through with following Him -
- He will help us remove more than oil stains from our lives !
January 6, 2012 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, bondage, Christian, doctrine, freedom, God, Heaven, Hell, hope, Jesus Christ, Lord, lost, relationship, religion, salvation, Savior, tradition
Theology matters.
Studying doctrine of various religions will lead you to an awareness of differences. How to get to Heaven is a primary subject. Another is how to live out my faith, and still get to Heaven. Also, is Heaven an actual place – and what about Hell – does it exist?
Salvation is key. Wondering about the possibility of losing my salvation during my lifetime on earth can be troubling. Where will I go when I die and why? Is life here on earth all there is?
Jesus Christ offers us an intimate relationship with Him on earth, and on into Heaven. He shows us the way to do this by receiving the Holy Spirit. It is by love and grace that we receive our salvation - not by any works we perform. Jesus is our eternal intercessor – providing the “only” way to get to God. When we receive Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we no longer need to question our salvation or wonder if we will lose it.
Other religions do not offer the hope and free acceptance of a living God. True Christianity sets us free from heavy bondage and useless traditions which can be found in the theology of other religions. It is through relationship and not religion that we ultimately get to know God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.
Think through your theology -
- if you get lost, ask Jesus to find you.
December 29, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, carol, Christian, Christmas, Father, generosity, God, Jesus, King, legacy, legend, Lord, poor, Savior, song, Wenceslas, wretched
“Good King Wenceslas looked out, on the Feast of Stephen………”
These are the words of a Christmas Carol, which, over the years seems to have fallen be the wayside. This Christmas Season, I don’t recollect it being played over the airwaves, or sung at church. I did a little research on Wenceslas and discovered that he was revered for his piety and generosity. He even became known as a “father of the wretched.”
It is nice to know that legendary names of people aren’t always fictional – that they did indeed exist and stood for what was proclaimed about them. Unfortunately, their legacy can fall by the wayside if not kept alive by writings, songs, movies, etc.
How interesting that the legacy of an obscure carpenter from Nazareth has not fallen by the wayside. Jesus walked the earth (without internet !), and influenced more people than can be counted. His holy name continues to pervade societies and cultures around the world.
The Bible provides an historical background and platform from which to get acquainted with Jesus – our Lord and Savior. His name and legacy indeed existed and still stand for what was proclaimed – in centuries past – and into the present – and on into the future……..
- never to fall by the wayside……..
December 15, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged advice, Bible, Christian, counselor, delight, eternity, God, Jesus Christ, life, Lord, Savior, testimony, treasure, wealth
“Your testimonies also are my delight and my counselors.” (Ps. 119:24)
The Word of the Lord – God’s Word – is His testimony of Himself. The Bible bears witness of who God is and what He has done and will do. We are to read and follow His commandments on a daily basis. We are to take delight in His counsel.
Reading God’s Word provides us with much needed advice to get us through our days. We can know with certainty that His advice is filled with absolute truth and His amazing love. No- where, or from no-one else, can that combination be found !
With today’s technology, we have incredible opportunities to dig into God’s Word and discover His treasury. Going deeper and deeper provides choice riches beyond compare. He promises us wealth greater than silver and gold.
“My fruit is better than gold, yes, than fine gold and my revenue than choice silver.” (Prov. 8:19)
God’s wisdom illuminates our pathway to righteousness and eternal salvation – to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Our eternal destiny is the final pay out.
“For whomever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the Lord.“ (Prov. 8:35)
Open the Bible and read God’s Word -
- and discover your “eternal” testimony……
December 7, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Christian, Christmas, diet, healthy, ingredients, Jesus, Lord, mayonaise, message, recipes, Savior, side effects, wholesome
“Hold the mayo…….”
Those are usually my words most of the year, but since we are in the middle of the Christmas Season and tasty recipes – well………….
So while at the grocery store I found a reputable brand of mayonaise on sale, both the diet and regular brand were listed for the same price. At first I gravitated toward the diet variety, but then I wondered if it might not taste as good. Then I decided to read the labels for both the diet and the regular – hoping the information would help sway my decision. Calories and fat content were my focus. Much to my surprise, the calories were the same! The fat content wasn’t much different either – and in fact, the diet brand contained some undesirable fat, along with watered down ingredients. I decided to go with the wholesome choice and not settle for the watered down variety……..
Preparing the food for this Christmas Holiday reminds me that watering down recipes may seem good at first, but harmful side effects could be experienced later…………
This Christmas don’t let the message of the birth of our Lord and Savior get watered down or tainted with unhealthy ingredients………
- and oh yes, pass the mayo !!
November 23, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, feast, festival, God, joy, party, strength, Thanksgiving
“Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” (Neh. 8:10)
Nehemiah reminded the people that although the word of God had convicted them of their sins – that they had failed to love God wholeheartedly and obey Him – they were to go and rejoice !
Instead of having a ” pity” party, they were to go and have a “holy” party – for God had touched their lives and brought them into His Holiness……..to go and have a “feast” with the joy of celebrating “Him” !
“This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep.” For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the Law. (Neh. 8:9)
Wow – can you imagine? Go and have a feast? What does this response from God tell us about His love for us? And the joy we can experience in His presence?
“Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength……….do not be grieved………and all the people went their way to eat and drink, to send portions and rejoice greatly, because they understood the words that were declared to them. (Neh. 8:10-12)
Have a “feast” – party on – with God !
November 10, 2011 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, Christian, control, culture, faith, God, heart, Lord's Prayer, mind, password, prayer, relationship, religion, ruler, soul, will
Thy will be done…………
The Lord’s Prayer is well known by many. It has appeared on plaques, dishes, blankets, bookmarks, t shirts – just about any object imaginable. It has been preached, read, memorized and appears to transcend religious denominations.
If we are not careful, we can recite the words without allowing them to sink into our heart, mind and soul. It is a simple yet powerful prayer – perhaps overused in our modern culture as a robotic password of sorts for reaching up to God.
It is important to consider and meditate on the deep meaning of each passage. One of them being – “THY” will be done. Without recognizing that it is God’s will which will be done (and not ours), we can fall into the trap of claiming “our” will be done instead. This can lead us into disappointment, and a lack of faith.
We need to give up our supposed “right to rule”, and allow God’s sovereignty to become master of our lives. HE is in control, HE created the universe – HE knows what HE is doing !!
“Hallowed” be YOUR name———
–and not mine !
November 2, 2011 · Filed under relationships · Tagged addictions, anger, behavior, Christian, connection, destruction, disease, emotions, fear, God, grief, health, hurt, Jesus Christ, joy, Lord, love, relationships, relief, salvation, Savior, sickness, sorrow
What are you withholding?
Are you holding back feelings of grief, sorrow, anger or even joy? Is fear a constant companion, and a prime culprit for a lack of connection to others, or even yourself?
Addictive behaviors to cover up the emotions within are a temporary relief – but then they need to happen over and over – and sometimes lose their effectiveness. Eventually, what was covered up becomes exposed – and this can lead to destructive behavior ……..and even lead to premature death.
The good news is that we can find healthy ways to get help. By reaching out to those who have found their way out of unhealthy lifestyles and establishing a loving relationship with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ – we can turn away from destruction.
“For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord will give grace and glory; no good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.” (Ps. 84:11)
We can freely receive His love and forgiveness, and walk in His light.
- then instead of “holding back”………we can freely “give” back !
October 18, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged aerodynamics, beauty, bird, Christian, complexity, creation, flight, God, hummingbird, title, Top Gun, transcendental
We have hummingbirds living in our yard. They have their routine, and one of them is to sit on the very top of a tree and sing a signature song. Their aerial dynamic flights are entertaining to watch, and we have noticed many of these flights at daybreak and sunset.
A particular hummingbird has displayed extraordinary flight patterns with such precision and speed, that we have named him “Top Gun” ! He almost seems to not only exhibit amazing aerodynamics, but a sense of humor as well. We have watched him hover over our grass at just the right height to be gently showered by the lawn sprinklers. Many times he will instantly appear right in front of us at eye level, briefly hovering as if to say hello. Other times he will appear from a corner in front of a window, stare at us, and then just as quickly disappear – only to appear again – his signature “peek a boo” moments ! His in-flight spirals, rolls, and dive bombs are thrilling to watch – truly a “top gun” experience !
These tiny birds remind us of the beauty and complexity of God’s astounding creations – and His creativity -
HE will forever command the title of “transcendental” top gun !
October 5, 2011 · Filed under relationships · Tagged ally, anger, Christian, communication, God, Holy Spirit, hurt, intentional, intentions, Jesus, landmine, Lord, misunderstanding, misunderstood, perception, power, prayer, relationship, Savior
I had such good intentions – how could I have been misunderstood?
Have you ever asked yourself this question? And did you ask yourself this question because the other person either became hurt or angry, or both? I call this “stepping on a landmine” !
Sooner or later, we will inadvertently step on a landmine – it is inevitable. No matter how hard you try, there will come a time when you say or do something that rubs somebody else the wrong way.
If you think about it, we all come from varying backgrounds, families and circumstances. We have learned ways of communicating that may not be understood in the same way by everybody we meet. Our best intentions can be perceived as questionable.
When a situation blows up, picking up the pieces can be a difficult process. It takes time to repair the damage. Even then, our most sincerest actions and words can be misunderstood.
Without the power of prayer, we can be left with a life of ruined relationships – continually sorting through the debris.
By receiving Jesus as our Lord and Savior, God promises to send us His helper, the Holy Spirit, to guide us through our world of landmines. With His help, our prayers become powerful allies -
- so we can be “well” able, and not “disabled” !
October 13, 2008 · Filed under relationships · Tagged encouragement, family, marriage, relationships
The weekend is over, it’s now time to get busy?
Somehow everything that needs to be done seems overwhelming and it’s hard to get motivated. I had my two cups of coffee, waved good-bye to my husband as he drove away to go to work. I love to send him off in the morning – I wave to him and he waves back. We have come to cherish this small and special ritual.
Come to think of it, these small and special moments are what make life “grand”. Even on a Monday.
October 14, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged attitude, Bible, Christian, encouragement, thoughts
Up before sunrise, sipping coffee, stepping outside – the sound of the breeze through the trees……the peaceful moments before the day begins. All seems well with the world during this time, but yet I know that soon the worries of life will enter my day at some point.
The Bible talks about not worrying about anything – to not be anxious, but instead give it all to God in prayer with thanksgiving. He promises that His peace will guard our hearts and mind. Isn’t it true that our attitude starts in our heart and then guides the thoughts in our mind?
Today, let the soothing sound of the breeze through the trees be a reminder of HIS perfect peace.
October 15, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, elderly, encouragement, Jesus, survival, thoughts
This is mid-week for some – for me, it is also mid-life! Although, technically, I suppose I have entered into the “last third”. I turned fifty five this year, and let’s face it, the “golden years” do not seem so “golden”. So many advertisements show us older folk smiling and enjoying life’s pleasures. Frankly, the issue of survival is forefront on my mind. If you look around you can see that our world today does not promise that survival will always be easy.
Jesus said, “my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
When I turn my thoughts and prayers towards the Lord, I am reassured in my heart that “HE” is in control and all I have to do is trust in “HIM”. My survival issues are in “HIS” hands. My burdens just became weightless, and I am free to enjoy life’s simple pleasures………………… How “wonderful”!
October 16, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, encouragement, prophecy, truth
“Presidential” promises abound during these times before the election in November. Opinions based on fact and some not based on fact are spoken. We need to be careful about believing everything we hear, or read. Doing our own research to find out what is true is very important in this day and age. Not finding out the “real” facts could lead us into trouble and harmful consequences.
Finding out the “truth” is a qwest we all should follow. The Christian Bible speaks a great deal about wisdom and what is truth. The more I research and read the Bible, the more I realize that nothing that has been done or spoken is new under the sun. I have found that all of God’s “promises” have come true and are still coming true. I can now rely on the Bible as “truth” with the facts to back it up. When all is said and done I would rather “bank” on God’s promises. They will ultimately lead me to an eternal investment!
October 17, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged beauty, Christian, community, encouragement, flowers, God, joy
What a joy it is to look at the beauty of flowers. I know a lady in Michigan who works very hard on her magnificent flower gardens. Her home and property are also bordered by beautiful displays of greenery serving as a special backdrop to all the colorful flowers. It is obviously her passion and her desire to create these spectacular displays. The neighbors in her community have designated her as the “flower” lady, and come to her for samples, cuttings and advice.
We should never overlook the desires that God has given us. Sometimes we may think that these desires are not profitable or important. Sometimes we may think “who would care” so why bother. But God has wired us all for a purpose in life, and these God given desires are often the motivators for us to assume our special role in life and play our part. Our desires create joy in our work, and that joy affects others. Whatever your’s are, pursue them and see how “flowerful” they can be.
October 20, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, encouragement, laughter, medicine
Has anyone ever told you that laughter is good medicine? When you smile and laugh at life, all of a sudden things seem better. Smiling and laughing promote a feeling of being merry. In the Bible, there are many references to being merry. “A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance” is one of my favorites. So how can I be merry amidst all the troubles of life?
Jesus said, “be of good cheer, for I have overcome the world”.
Wow! Jesus has already taken care of everything! All I have to do is give my burdens to “Him”. He can handle it, no problem! Not only did He give His life for me but He promises to take care of everything. Well then, that sure puts a different spin on things. No other medicine on earth can make that claim!
Cheers!!
October 21, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, faith, Jesus, money, trust
Who do you trust? What do you put your trust “in”? I suppose most of us would think first about our relationships. What people in our life do we put our trust. And then we could also think about material objects that we trust, such as buildings, roads, tools, etc. Our American currency states “in God we trust”. Well, we all know by now that our currency isn’t the best place to put our trust!
So how about God? After all, the phrase “in God we trust” is something we’ve all heard or read at some point. I have put my trust in God. I also admit that there have been many times when I have felt like “He” has broken that trust and failed me. Even Jesus, who was dying on the cross, cried out to God, “why have you forsaken me”?
So then, why should I put my trust in anyone or anything, even God? Whenever that question comes up, I am reminded that trust isn’t complete without the element of faith. My faith will always have to carry me through the times when it seems that trust has been broken. Eventually, at the end of the day and at the end of my life, it is where I put my faith that will really matter.
October 22, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Christian, eternal, exercise, Jesus, life, swimming, thirst, water
Water is truly amazing. We clean with it, play in it, admire it and most importantly drink it. Without it, we would die and so would all the plants and animals. Life on earth would not exist. It really is a most precious commodity.
I also like to swim laps in it. This has been a part of my exercise routine for the last twenty five years and has always served to replenish me mentally as well as physically. Drinking water to quench my thirst gives me a physical boost, and swimming laps gives me an adrenalin boost. Both are important aspects to providing and improving my life here on earth. But what about eternal life?
Jesus said, “but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. It will become a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”
Apparently there is more to “water” than meets the eye! Besides drinking water from your own cup, drink the water that Jesus has to offer, from “His” cup. Your thirst will be “eternally” quenched!
October 23, 2008 · Filed under relationships · Tagged caring, cooperation, empathy, love, relationships, respect
It was a brief stand-off.
The sun was setting, the lighting had gone dim. I latched the gate to the horse corral and turned to begin my walk back to the barn area. It was then that I noticed a coyote slowly trotting toward me, only about fifteen yards away and steadily advancing. I stood very still, transfixed, wondering why he had seemingly not noticed me. Only six feet from me he stopped and did not move. I knew he had just now realized I was standing there. In between him and me was a round cement post which was just wide enough to block me from seeing him on the other side. I knew he was still there and he knew I was still there! Neither of us moved. I waited for him to move and it seemed he was waiting for me to move! Not ever being faced with this type of situation, I was not really sure what would be the safest thing to do. If I moved, would I frighten him? Would he then attack me or would he run away? It seemed a very long time we waited on each other. It became almost humorous, as if he was thinking the same things about me?
Well, I finally took a chance and chose to slowly turn and walk in the opposite direction from where he was standing. As I did so, he did the same thing and I saw him slowly trotting away from me. We both casually moved away from each other in our own directions. No harm done.
This reminded me of how it can sometimes be with relationships. There can be a “cement post” in the way, blocking our way to understanding one another. Each person on either side wondering about the other person’s possible reactions, afraid to make a move, for fear of hurting one another or getting hurt. So nobody does anything, both sides waiting for the other to make a “move” ?
Take a chance, make a move – you just might find out that you can get along, even in each other’s territory!
October 25, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged beliefs, Bible, Christian, facts, thoughts, truth
“Just the facts, madam, just the facts”.
What a familiar phrase to those of us who used to watch a television program called ”Dragnet”. The detective would remind people to give him “just the facts”. Many times people’s emotions would get in the way and cloud or distort the reality of the “facts”.
Factual information is often what helps lead us into the truth of a matter. We can speculate and we can form opinions, but ultimately, clear cut facts are hard to argue against. Interestingly, sometimes facts don’t become facts———until “after the fact” !
Facts are defined as “objective truth”. So, when someone says, “as a matter of fact”, does that mean that what is stated is “true”? Hmmmm……………..
How about something factual? Well, the sun rises every morning and sets every evening and “that’s a fact!” We all know that to be true, we have all seen it for ourselves. So if something is witnessed, then that something can become fact. Therefore, it can then become truth? Hmmmmmm……………
In the television program “Dragnet”, witnesses were very important to get to the truth of what really happened. In the Christian Bible, eye witness accounts were duly recorded. These “facts” were handed down through the generations for anyone who would want to know them. Now the question is, do I believe?
Hmmmmmm…………………….
October 31, 2008 · Filed under relationships · Tagged actions, feelings, forgiveness, God, hurt, Jesus, love, prayer, relationships, words
Forgiveness can be tough.
Has anyone ever said something or done something to you that hurt your feelings? You wonder to yourself, “how could they have done that, or said that?” Don’t they understand what they are doing, or did do?
When we get hurt, or feel wronged in some way, it is a natural reaction to want to see that justice is rendered somehow. Of course, there is nothing wrong with justice, but there is a healthy and non healthy way to accomplish it. Sometimes, finding a way to make things right is sufficient.
In relationships, many times it’s not so much that a wrong has been committed, but that there was a misunderstanding. The words we may have used could have been too strong, or too weak, or not the right words in the first place. Perhaps our mannerisms may have been misconstrued. By trying to understand one another and keeping the lines of communication open we can avoid bitterness and anger.
This is where forgiveness becomes so important. I would like to know that I would be forgiven if I made a mistake, so I also need to be ready to forgive someone else if they made one.
The Lord’s prayer tells us “to forgive others as we have been forgiven”. Our Heavenly Father granted us the greatest forgiveness by His Son dying on the cross for all our transgressions. When I received that kind of amazing love it became more natural to extend that love to someone else. Forgiveness is one of the most powerful ways I can express my love for others. How about you?
October 27, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged assumptions, Bible, Christian, encouragement, Holy Spirit, hope, Jesus, Lord, mirror, Savior, thoughts
I heard someone say, “what would I be thinking about myself, if I didn’t even know it was me?”
Let’s say you were standing outside yourself and you were describing you, without being you. What would you have to say? Well, first of all, you don’t know this person, so you could start making assumptions. If these assumptions are wrong, and if they were negative, you would feel very bad about thinking those things about yourself!
In Jesus’s Sermon on the Mount, He said, “why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye?”
Sometimes I need to take a good look at myself. Sometimes I need to tell myself the truth, whether it’s good or bad. Sometimes I need a close friend to help me do this. Frankly, it’s scarey. Looking in the “mirror” may not be pleasant (especially if you are older like me!), but the good news is, there is hope.
Jesus promises that we have the power of the Holy Spirit to draw on when we are faced with the truth. By receiving Jesus as our Lord and Savior, I now have the Holy Spirit to help me change whatever it is that needs to be changed. Our Lord promises that we become a “new” creation in Him. The old has passed away, for good. Forever………………Now looking in the “mirror” can become a whole “new” experience!
October 28, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged adventure, Bible, discovery, encouragement, exercise, Lord, neighborhood, thoughts, walking
Today I experienced a whole new place. It was a place I had not seen before. It was new to me so I felt a sense of adventure. It was a “new discovery”! The people were friendly, the flowers and trees were pretty…………..Where was this great find? It was my own neighborhood!
I had decided to go for a walk. I tended to want to walk the same ”tried and true” route, knowing exactly how many minutes it would take, but today, why not? How about something new? Well, I surprised myself when I discovered a part of my neighborhood I never knew existed. The added bonus was that the flavor of the day changed from uneventful, routine and dull———to an exciting anticipation of what might be around the corner!
As I walked home, I was reminded that each day can be turned into an adventure, because we really don’t know exactly how the day will unfold. In the Bible we are told about living each day with joyful anticipation. Every day is “the day that the Lord has made”.
So instead of thinking each day will be the same “tried and true”, let’s see what the Lord will do! Even in your own neighborhood!
October 29, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged anxiety, encouragement, fear, forward, God, help, horse, power, unknown
Sometimes when I ride my horse through an area he has never been before, he will stop and not seem to want to go forward. As I give him the signal to move on, he may slowly move ahead, or sidestep to avoid really having to go forward. He sometimes needs some extra help to get over any fear he has and enter into the unknown. Once in awhile, I will get off and quietly lead him through the area until he is ok with it. I always like the fact that although he may be reluctant at times, he is still willing to give it a try.
Many times in my life, when I feel afraid, I want to sidestep away from a straightforward course. It may seem easier to avoid whatever it is I should do. This seems to just make matters worse by prolonging the anxiety feeling that follows me around. I have found that if I ask for God’s help, He is always willing to help lead me forward into the unknown. He tells me through His word that He has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power and of a sound mind.
With “Him” to guide me into the unknown, I know that I can be “more” than willing !
October 30, 2008 · Filed under relationships · Tagged blessing, Christian, disaster, encouragement, faith, fire, God, holiday, problem, relationship, thankful
I am already looking forward to Thanksgiving. It is one of my favorite holidays. So much goodness can be associated with it. When I stop to think about all I have to be thankful for, problems I thought I had can fade away. If I start my day in a spirit of thankfulness, my attitude already softens. Being reminded to also “give” thanks projects goodness outward and affects people around me.
Who are you giving thanks to? If you think about it, there are probably many people in your life deserving of a hearty “thank you”! Besides the obvious good things that folks do for us, even things that might seem bad at first can end up turning out for the good. It’s not easy to feel thankful when an event looks or feels bad. When our house burned down, things seemed pretty bad at first. I remember asking God why He would allow that to happen. But as time went by, I found out that our lives became better because of it!
Only God can turn something disastrous into a blessing. He promises to work “all” things out for the good. Because of my close relationship with Him, my faith can sustain me while I wait on Him for the “good” ending to the story.
Now that’s something to really be thankful for !
November 3, 2008 · Filed under relationships · Tagged blessing, growth, kids, life, maturing, meddling, Mom, over protective, process, protect
Meddling in a quarrel not your own is like taking a dog by the ears. (Proverbs 26:17)
I have found that meddling in someone else’s business where I do not belong can backfire. By interfering I can inadvertantly prohibit the outcome. To allow other people to experience what seems grievous, gives them a chance to grow and mature in areas of their lives. Being a Mom for over two decades I have seen this played out. Backing off and letting “life happen” to our children was a growth process that added richness to their maturity.
Too often it is so tempting to protect others from “falling off the swing” (as I like to put it). In so doing, they don’t learn how to face the bad with the good in life. If everything had to be good, we would continually be frustrated and angry, because life is just not always good! ………………(I wish !)
It was hard not to be an over protective Mom and it was doubly hard to let our kids go when the time came. It was a step by step process leading to a new kind of relationship. Watching them living their own lives out on their own is a rewarding blessing.
Now more than ever I don’t want to be a ”meddler” !
November 4, 2008 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, driving, grace, kindness, reaction, rudeness, temptation
Have you noticed there seems to be more rudeness on the highways these days? Today I was tempted to be rude in return to a rudeness towards me.
I had just pulled up to an intersection where I needed to turn right. The light was red. Looking to my left there was a vehicle coming fairly fast. There could have been enough time to pull out and turn, but I would have had to really speed through the gears to get up to speed. At that moment I decided to wait until the car went by so as not to risk that driver getting mad that I pulled out in front of him. Just as I made the decision to wait, I heard a honk from the vehicle behind me. I looked in the rearview mirror and saw the driver behind me shrugging his shoulders and stretching both arms out in frustration with me that I did not pull out. I then decided to smile and wave at the driver behind me……………………..
The Bible teaches that by responding foolishly to a fool, I now become like him. There are times that it would seem satisfying to respond angrily to get back at that person. But in thinking more about it, doing that would only bring on more of the same. By showing kindness instead, we also show grace. Perhaps that person was having a bad day. (Albeit no excuse of course) At any rate, by choosing the “high road” we can avoid the potholes of an ugly confrontation.
Interestingly, later on down the road I found myself right behind that same driver. I now had the perfect opportunity to give back what I had been given……………… I decided to show grace…………
November 5, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged anxiety, choices, clean, depression, dirt, environment, eternity, fix, health, Jesus, pain, sin, washed
Cleaning is not my favorite pastime. Whatever gets cleaned has to be done again and again and again………washing the floor, washing the windows, washing the counters, washing the dishes, washing the clothes………It is a never ending cycle and some days it is hard to get motivated to do it. The fact that it will all get dirty again and need to be cleaned again makes me wonder sometimes “why bother”? But living in a dirty environment is just not healthy, so it must be done.
Another dirty environment we all face is a life tainted by our sinful nature. We can try again and again to make ourselves “clean”, but more often than not we can find ourselves still making unhealthy choices. These choices can lead us into a life of pain, depression and anxiety. Trying to wash away whatever it is that bothers us with temporary fixes, means we have to just do it again and again.
There is one washing that “never” needs to be done again. That is the washing away of all our sins by the blood of Jesus. His death on the cross took care of it once, never having to be done again. By receiving Him as my Lord and Savior, all the “dirt” in my life was washed away forever. I am clean in Christ !
Hallelujah!! Now that’s one awesome cleaning——-and it will last for eternity !
November 7, 2008 · Filed under relationships · Tagged amazing, anger, caring, cat, God, love, unconditional
We have a very loving cat who we named Tommy. He appeared in our yard as a stray. At that time we already had a cat who had been with us for fifteen years. She was the only pet we had and therefore was not really excited about this “intruder”. It took awhile for her to tolerate his presence. That was about all she could do was tolerate him, and if he came too close she would really hiss at him, and sometimes strike at him with her paw. All during this time we were quite intrigued by Tommy’s behavior. He never once lashed back at our other cat’s angry hisses. He always gave her the space she desired. He even would politely wait for her to proceed to the kitchen first at meal times. And most of all, he would continue to keep her company (from a polite distance) and even try to play with her. It was as if he really cared about her and for her, even if she refused to accept it.
I couldn’t help but think that this cat was exemplifying the unconditional love that God has for us. That no matter what we say or do, or how angry we can get at Him, He continues to love us, even if we refuse to accept it. He loved us so much that He gave His only Son to die for us.
How can we possibly refuse that kind of amazing love?
November 7, 2008 · Filed under relationships · Tagged battle, benefit, Bible, Christian, cost, fight, God, good, prayer, right, trust, victory, win
What are you willing to fight for? And is it worth it?
Do you fight for a parking spot, a place at the head of the line, the last word in an argument, wanting to be right, wanting to be understood – the list is enless……..
I have learned over the years that there is a cost and a benefit to almost everything I do, and say. Thinking more about the cost and benefit helps me to choose my battles more carefully. There was a time in my life when I didn’t really want to fight about or for anything. I thought it would be easier to just coast through life trying to please everyone and never having to disagree. Well, of course, that could not last very long before realizing that not everything or everyone around me was necessarily good or right. But what is good or right? And what is worth “fighting” for or about?
God has given us His guidelines for what is good and right in the Bible. He shows us what battles are worth a fight and worth winning. Thankfully, He also shows us ”how” to fight for what is good. Asking for His help in any situation is first and foremost. That help comes through prayer. He promises to have victory in any battle when it is turned over to Him, and I need to trust the outcome that He has chosen. Try it sometime!
Let Him “fight” for you !
November 10, 2008 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, blessings, despair, endurance, fear, inadequacy, insecurity, Jesus, marathon, mistakes, quit, strength
Have you ever done a marathon? It is a real test of endurance. Just being able to finish without giving up, can be more rewarding than whether you won or not. While you’re in it, you can think of a lot of seemingly good reasons to quit. But then, if you quit, you would have missed out on the best part – knowing that you were able to do it – that you didn’t quit, that you didn’t give up.
This can be applied to our lives in many ways. I can be tempted to give up on projects I have started, or relationships I am involved in. Just because the going gets tough while you’re in it, doesn’t necessarily mean that it is a waste of time, or that it isn’t worth it. Sometimes if I continue to push on through, I find out that I am glad I did.
My supervisor at a job I once had almost gave up on me. I had only been there a couple of months and there was a lot to learn. I had made some mistakes, and she had told me that my employment may not work out there if the mistakes continued. At that time I wondered if I should just give up and find another job. Well, after I learned the various processes that were involved, I became her star employee. When I had to move away and leave this job, they held a wonderful party in recognition of my good work. I was told by my supervisor and co-workers that I would be greatly missed.
Our lives are full of examples of tough times. During these times, if I give in to feelings of despair, fear, inadequacy, and insecurity, I could miss out on the blessings of life. The Bible teaches that we can always depend on the strength the Lord supplies to get us through. Jesus said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Knowing that He “never” gives up on me, and is “always” there for me, gives me that added strength and motivation to push on through.
My “marathon” just got easier !
November 11, 2008 · Filed under relationships · Tagged bitterness, Christian, forgive, friendship, honest, hurts, Jesus, love, people, process, repentance, sins
When our kids were little, my husband and I would tip toe into their room at night to check on them. We tried to be very careful not to disturb their sleep. Sometimes though, it didn’t matter how hard we tried, one of us would accidently make a noise. Then, sure enough, that would be all it took. We would have to go through the whole “going to bed” process all over again.
Have you ever had to “tip toe” around people? You try as hard as you can not to disturb them, but sure enough, the time comes when you accidently say or do something and you find out that they have been greatly offended. Often, you had no idea that you have disturbed them, and then you find yourself going through the process of regaining their friendship – all over again.
Sadly, some friendships are never regained. Deeply felt hurts can last a lifetime, and cause bitterness towards others. If we choose to never forgive others for a hurt that may have been caused, ultimately we could end up in bondage to bitterness. Being honest with one another in a spirt of love and repentance goes a long way towards rebuilding a friendship. Making an effort to understand each other’s view and to not take disagreements personally is a life long process.
Jesus was asked, “how many times shall I forgive my brother’s sins against me?” And He responded, “up to seventy times seven.”
If everyone did that ? ”Tip toeing” could become foolproof !!
November 12, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged arthritis, Bible, God, guard, heart, help, herbs, pain, prayer, well
My doctor looked at me and said, “you have rheumatoid arthritis, just go home and take aspirin.”
I thought to myself at that moment that this just could not be possible. I was not that old – mid forties. As I drove home I decided to not accept this prognosis. Putting my dilemma to prayer I kept my “spiritual antenna” up for answers. Before too long, my answer came. In my case, it was in the form of herbs which took away all the joint pain I had been experiencing.
Throughout my life I have learned that if I ask God for help, He always responds. What I need to do is keep the lines of communication open. If I allow negativity to interfere, I can miss out on what God is trying to tell me. Asking God to search my heart on a daily basis helps keep my heart pure. When I discover unhealthy motives arising from my heart I can choose to eradicate them. God gives us His power through the Holy Spirit to accomplish this.
A healthy heart is vital for life. How interesting that it is responsbile for not only our physical health, but also our mind and spirit. In the Bible there are many references to the heart. We are reminded to ask God to guide and guard our hearts. Then when someone asks me how I am doing – I can honestly answer,
“quite well, thank you !”
November 13, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged eternity, excitement, God, Heaven, Jesus, life, Lord, moods, reality, Savior, thrill
I used to work as a secretary full time, Monday through Friday. Thursdays never seemed to be a very exciting day. Everyone would look forward to Friday evening as the official start of the weekend. People even acted differently on Friday. They seemed happier. It occurred to me that perhaps the days of the week should not dictate our moods. Why couldn’t Thursday be just as “thrilling” as Friday?
Perhaps we base our excitement a bit too much on outside circumstances that come and go, that don’t last. A much anticipated weekend sometimes doesn’t fulfill our expectations. We can feel let down, disappointed. That roller coaster ride, plane ride, horseback ride; they all came to an end. Could there be something thrilling to look forward to that never comes to an end?
That something is “eternity” in Heaven. Every day will be the best day of my life, and it will “never” end. In my daily walk with God, I am continually reminded about the reality of what is to come, and I will not be let down. It will exceed my wildest expectations. Jesus promises that you will have everlasting life if you come to Him, and receive Him as your Lord and Savior. The day I did that was the most thrilling day of my life.
Now “every” day holds the thrill of the coming ”eternal” weekend !
November 15, 2008 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, Christian, comfort, faithful, friend, Jesus, love
In order to have friends, I must be friendly.
A friend shows interest in others, loves unconditionally, sympathizes, sacrifices. A friend gives constructive criticism, helpful advice, is valuable in a time of need, and is always faithful. I like to think of my horse and cat as my friends! They are definitely always there for me, and so very loyal. They do love me unconditionally and show interest in me. They actually want to be with me. They do provide much comfort in a time of need.
But they can’t give me helpful advice or constructive criticism………. So it appears that we still need other people to be our friends. Without other people to give me sound advice, I may not mature into the person I need to be. I may not become the ”true” friend to others I “could” be. As a Christian, I know that Jesus is the best friend I could ever have. He not only has proven to show me all the characteristics of a real friend, He went a step further - He took on all my transgressions and died for me………….
Now I don’t ever have to feel totally alone. Jesus is with me round the clock, each and every day. That is His promise. His perfect advice has been given to me in the Bible. He has given me the Holy Spirit to guide me. When my other friends can’t be there for me, I know I can always rely on “Him”.
With “Him” as my best friend, I can now become more of a “true” friend to others.
November 18, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, clutter, confusion, contentment, God, joy, peace, prayer, purpose, simple
Have you ever had a day that started out “muddled” and stayed that way?
Our lives can be over filled with responsiblilities and opportunities. We can clog our minds with “mental clutter” because everything we do or want to do requires thoughts of some kind. Technology brings into our lives information on a global level. It is no wonder that confusion can interfere with our main purpose in life.
Keeping life simple holds the key to staying on the path to your purpose. When we allow the “muddle” of the world to affect our God given priorities discontent and dissatisfaction reign. The Bible speaks a great deal about peace and being still with God. Contentment comes when we go to Him in prayer at the start of each day. Reading His word gives us the examples we need to follow. He promises to lead us to His perfect purpose for our lives.
When I stay “online” with God, contentment, peace and inner joy make up my day. I would rather choose that kind of day – any day – than a “muddled” day !
November 19, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Heaven, Hell, holiday, Jesus, Lord, pain, Savior
Some of the most happiest days can be the toughest.
Have you ever felt like your day was going along really great, you’re in a good mood and life is good? Then only to have it all change, in an instant…………and you find yourself almost in a state of shock that “this can’t be happening right now?”.
It would be so nice to live a pain free life, that nothing would ever go wrong. If we look back through history, the “painful” reality is that “pain free” does not exist. At least, not here in our life on earth. We’ve heard about how wonderful Heaven will be, but for now, of course, we are here, living our lives.
Heaven is an inviting place to think and talk about. But what of the reality of a place called Hell? Now there’s a place that won’t make the top ten topics at your next Holiday celebration! If what the Bible says about the reality of Hell is true, how do I avoid going there? After all, being there is all about “constant” pain, for eternity……….
Jesus promises that “He” is the way. He is knocking on our “door” of life, and wants to come in and save us. I found out that when I let Him into my life, and submitted to Him as my Lord and Savior – Hell would “never” be my destination. I can rejoice in knowing that Heaven will be my forever “Holiday” celebration !
My ”painful” experiences in life can be more “pain free”.
November 19, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, complain, content, food, God, life, prayer, thankful, weather, weight
I was born and raised in the Chicagoland area. The winters were cold with many gray days. The summers seemed very short, were very humid and mosquitos spoiled many evening cookouts. We used to complain a great deal about the weather. Because of the conditions, we had to find activites that could be enjoyed indoors. Most activites then revolved around food, and so we complained about gaining weight. We found a lot to “whine” about.
Now that I have been gone from that area for a number of years, I no longer whine about bad weather. I live in an area where it is sunny and nice most of the time. There are very few mosquitos and the weather is perfect for cookouts and outdoor activites. But now I find I miss the Italian beefs and pizza for which Chicago is famous, and the festive gatherings with the friendly people who live there. I now have new things to “whine” about!
When I look to the things I don’t have, and forget to be thankful and content with what I do have, life can seem to become unhappy and unfair. Even my prayers can become empty and selfish. I can lose sight of what really matters, and take on an unhealthy focus.
One of the Ten Commandments cautions us to not covet what is not ours. In some of the stories of the Old Testament, the children of Israel got into trouble when they decided to “whine” for things they did not have. Sometimes God went ahead and gave them what they thought they wanted. He did this purposely, so that they would find out that what they thought they really wanted - wasn’t always good for them.
Being content can combat coveting. In order to be more content, I need to spend more time with God, and read “His” Bible.
I can then be more of a “winner” than a “whiner” !
November 21, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, God, healing, manual, perspective, purpose, therapy, wisdom
What’s your therapy?
I love to go for a ride on my horse out in the country, just before sunset. Swimming laps in an outdoor pool always refreshes me. And, once in a while, some chocolate chip cookie dough hits the spot!
Ultimately, talking things through with a trusted friend, and/or counselor does wonders to put our issues in perspective. But what “kind” of perspective I acquire makes a difference. A healthy perspective on life doesn’t just happen automatically. Finding out what is truly healthy requires devoted research and discipline. A healthy perspective has to come from somewhere…………….
God’s Bible is our manual on how to develop a healthy perspective. Every life experience that can be imagined is described, along with the ending results. The wisdom handed down through the ages has been tried and tested. The whole story is there, along with what we need to know to develop our life’s purpose. My daily reading of the Bible puts my perspective on a strong and healthy track. It will be my “viewfinder” for life……
—– and I will need less “therapy” !
November 21, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Christian, flavor, food, God, holiday, Jesus, Savior
With the Holidays approaching, food with “flavor” thoughts come to mind. Our tastebuds gravitate to our annual favorite dishes - pumpkin pie, sweet potatoes, turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, etc. When something tastes good, not only do we enjoy eating it, we find ourselves wanting more.
On the other hand, if something lacks flavor, is tasteless, bland, or bitter, we would rather pass up that dish and avoid trying it again. We tend to have a good memory for the things we didn’t like. Sometimes it was so bad, we may “never” try it again!
Some people who have tried Christianity have had a similar experience. They found out that their life still contained times which lacked “flavor”, was bland, or bitter. Those memories stood out enough to cause them displeasure. They then decided it was so bad - it was not worth trying again.
“Oh yeah, Christianity – I tried that, it didn’t work for me…….”
Unfortunately, if someone has said that, they were misled from the beginning. Christianity is not something to “try”. It is a divine relationship with the Creator God, His Son and Holy Spirit. If you truly receive Jesus into your heart, you will “never” want to “try” anything else again. Bland and bitter days will happen, but Jesus is the “eternal” ingredient that turns everything into something “good” !
Instead of just giving it a “try” - open up your heart to receive “Him” .
—— you will “forever” want more !
November 24, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Christmas, God, Holy, Jesus, life, miracle
Do you believe in miracles?
Can they be explained? And if they can be explained, are they no longer miracles?
We can experience an event and decide it is a “miracle”. It is “super” natural, having no logical explanation. Looking around our world, there would seem to be many events that happen daily, having no logical explanation. You put a seed in the ground, and water it, and a plant grows. We can describe how it happens, but how does it “really” happen?
The air that we breathe is necessary for us to stay alive, but where did it come from? We can describe the components, but how do we explain the intricate part it plays in sustaining us? All around us are examples of the miracle of “life” in one form or another. Flowers bloom, trees grow, animals reproduce – babies are born………
The “miracle” of “life” - we can tell about it, theorize it, but it truly remains unexplainable. As Christmas approaches, we are reminded about the biggest miracle of all – Jesus’s birth………A “miraculous” event that impacted the entire world, and continues to do so. He was born to die…….and then live again……..for us to be saved. His was a Holy birth – God’s Son.
It’s not just a story, it’s a “miracle” worth believing.
November 25, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, conversation, edify, encourage, God, life, talk
We women love to talk !
Before the telephone was invented, women got together at someone’s home to – talk ! Then with the telephone, and now the cell phone, talking can happen all throughout the day. Research has shown that even “little” girls have a lot to talk about.
So what is all this talk about? Anything and everything…….! Topics are never a problem. But what can be a problem is the outcome of our conversations. Am I encouraging, edifying, and uplifting someone? Or am I using conversations as an excuse to gossip. Bringing other people down can be used as an indirect way to build yourself up. This not only hurts others, it can create an empty life of constantly having to justify yourself – to your “own” self.
The Bible has a lot to say about the “spoken” word. Negative and empty chatter can lead to an anxious and unproductive life. Lifetime quarrels over bitter words bring terrible heartache. On the other hand, words “fitly spoken” are described as cherished treasures. Uplifting comments make the heart “glad”.
Proverbs 18:21 reads: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” Interestingly, the Bible itself is described as the “Word” of life. In reading the Bible, we learn that we can choose to use life giving words to help others. God gave us His written Word – the Bible - to help us come to an “everlasting” life - with Him.
Now my talks can help lead others to a better life…….with “Him”.
November 26, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged God, order, patient, peace, quality, timing, wait
In our fast paced society, having to “wait” for something or someone, is becoming more and more difficult. We want it “yesterday”, and are becoming less willing to be patient. Technology has contributed greatly to our increasing need to be gratified immediately. We get used to “high speed”, and then that even seems slow!
Instead of appreciating the time and expertise that goes into quality workmanship, we are willing to give up quality in order to get something faster. Training methods are condensed, schooling programs are rushed. Even relationships are expected to be set on “fast forward” !
Sooner or later we find out that all this rushing got us nowhere, and really got us nothing worthwhile. Learning to slow down and “wait” is a valuable process. Waiting on the right “timing” becomes imperative. When we give our lives to God, He cautions us to learn to “wait” on Him. His timing is perfect.
When we become patient, life takes on a steady fulfilling pace. God is a God of order, and peace. Our lives can then reflect His peaceful influence. He shows us the way to what really matters and is truly worthwhile. It is then that we learn that the purpose of our life was -
- worth the “wait” !
November 28, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged family, friends, God, Thanksgiving
Spend the Thanksgiving Holiday Weekend with family, friends,
but most of all, with God……..
Thanks be to “Him” !
December 1, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged balance, beauty, challenge, foothold, Jesus, mesa, rock, trail
Part of the beauty of the desert are the majestic “mesas”, towering above the varied landscapes below. Some are accessible by steep roads and/or trails. Their characteristic “flat-tops” silhouetted against the brilliant blue skies beckon us to find some way to get up to the top. Being up there and looking over the steep cliffs is a rewarding thrill.
Recently, my husband and I decided to hike up the steep and rocky trail leading to the top of one of these mesas. It started with a gradual ascent, and became more rocky and steep as we progressed towards the top. Because of the many rocks we had to think about where we placed our feet. Some spots were not very stable, so where we chose to step made a difference.
Some of our misteps cause the ground to “give way” and we had to regain our balance. Eventually we arrived safely at the top ! We were rewarded by the beautiful view all around us. Later, as we made our way down, we still had to be very careful where we put our feet.
As we were challenged that day to place our feet in stable footholds, it reminded me that we are challenged daily to keep our lives on stable “footing”. Jesus tells us that “He is the rock” of our foundation of life. We can be certain that when we rely on Him………
- His trail will never “give way”.
December 2, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged God, Jesus, joy, life, treasure, truth
What do you treasure?
Time with loved ones? Adventure? Possessions?
We’ve seen many movies or read stories focused around seeking the discovery of something having great value. When it’s found it is a thrilling moment. But then what? Sometimes there can be an anti-climactic void – almost a depression……..Perhaps it is then that the “treasure” we thought that held so much value, didn’t meet our expectations.
The Bible talks a great deal about seeking the “truth” as if we were seeking a great “treasure”. Jesus said “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” If we would seek “Him” as our “treasure” of life, the “anti-climactic” void no longer exists. Our lives are filled with an “eternal” treasure. Our search is over.
Now life holds a new found joy. There is an inner joy which connects us to God. Now what we “treasure” is found all around us. We can spend more time enjoying what surrounds us, instead of trying so hard to find it……..
December 3, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged child, cold, faith, future, Holy Spirit, hope, ice, Jesus, Lord, Savior, snow, winter
Winter brings to mind cold and snowy weather. Warm jackets, hats and gloves make their way into our daily apparel. Building snowmen, throwing snowballs, sledding and iceskating are favorite pastimes in the regions which get large amounts of snow.
When I was a child, I enjoyed all the wintertime activites. Playing in the snow was a lot of fun. Later in life, adult responsibilities caused the winter season to take on another aspect. The snow and ice became more of a hazard than a time for fun. At times it was treacherous to drive, and sub zero weather was not a pleasant setting for the many errands that needed to be done.
As a child life seemed more of a winter “wonderland”. The promise of good times and hope was readily available. Later on, this “wonderland” was invaded by the trials of adulthood. Painful experiences etched away hopeful anticipations for the future.
Jesus said that we need to have the faith of a child in order to enter into His kingdom. A faith untainted by the trials of life. When we receive Him as our Lord and Savior, the Holy Spirit helps us to strengthen our faith and replenish our hope for the future -
- for our future “forever” wonderland…………!
December 5, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged budget, Christmas, gift, Jesus, love, patience, prayer
Those of us on a tight budget learn how to be thrifty. It is not always easy. Many times I am tempted to over spend, and then rationalize why that should be all right. Over the years it has become even more challenging to stay within a budget because of escalating costs.
Learning to wait before a major purchase can be difficult. Through prayer and patience, some purchases can be postponed. Sometimes, the purchase doesn’t even have to happen !
During the Christmas season it is very tempting to get caught up in the gift buying frenzy. Perhaps we want to show how much we care about our loved ones by the size or expense of our gift. Even anxiety ridden purchases are made with desperate attempts to find the “perfect” gift !
Centuries ago, the ”perfect” gift was given. It was the birth of Jesus - God’s wonderful gift to all of mankind. This is the “real” reason for the season. It required no monetary exchange. It was all about “love”.
Love – the truly “perfect” gift ———give more of that———
—-and you’ll “spend” less !
December 5, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Connemara, faith, fear, God, horse, jump, pony, trust
The best horse I ever owned was a Connemara. He was my true friend for twenty six years. The one issue we worked through was fear. He was a very careful horse, but sometimes a bit too careful. The fear factor caused him to be very spooky at new objects or environments.
For several years I trained him to jump over obstacles. I had to slowly build his self confidence. Each new obstacle had to be introduced one step at a time. Sometimes we would only walk between two end standards. Then, we would walk over a single rail on the ground between the same standards. Then additional rails would be added, one at a time, until the entire jump was built. He became a superb jumper, rarely knocking down a rail. His extreme carefulness contributed to his excellent jumping ability.
As time went by, he became less fearful. He had learned to trust that he would survive new experiences, and new obstacles.
It reminded me that I also have to overcome my own fears. Life continually brings new experiences and obstacles to surmount. Some seem overwhelming and frightening. Over the years, I have developed a strong faith in God. It is this faith which brings me my greatest strength. As new obstacles appear in my life, I am able to “jump” them with less fear, and greater confidence.
I can replace “fear” with “faith” !
December 9, 2008 · Filed under relationships · Tagged encourage, God, grace, love, marriage, prayer
We’ve heard it said, “it’s all in the timing” or “everything in its time”.
Many of us have experienced doing or saying something that seemed to be at the “wrong” time. The result of what we said or did ended badly.
In marriages, the timing of a conversation can make a difference. Is our spouse not feeling well, tired or already irritable? Perhaps waiting for a better “time” could change the overall tone of an issue that needs to be discussed. Sometimes in our hurry to resolve an issue, we could make it worse by not waiting for the proper time. In our haste to “get it over with” we can make matters worse.
So how do we know when the timing is right?
Using prayer as a first step before any important discussion causes us to better realize God’s timing. Are my motives and attitude a reflection of God’s love and grace? Does what I have to say uplift or encourage?
God tells us that He can turn all things into good. I am thankful that when I mess up “His” timing, “He” can turn that which seemed to end badly, into the beginning of something very good………
and even make it look like it was the right “timing ” after all !
December 11, 2008 · Filed under relationships · Tagged basics, Bible, busy, God, love, order, purpose, time, waste, worthy
Do you save leftover food, no matter how small the amount? How about that odd sized piece of aluminum foil at the end of the roll? Do you pick up the penny lying on the ground?
“I don’t want to “waste” it,” we think to ourselves. We want to feel that we have put everything to good use.
How about how we spend our time? These days, “busy-ness”, is a popular description of our days. But just because we are busy, doen’t necessarily mean we are spending our time wisely. The Bible talks about “redeeming the time”. We are reminded that our time on earth is limited, and that we should not waste it.
Sometimes it is difficult to decide how to use our time wisely. Our daily routine tasks and responsibilities crowd our schedules. We can lose track of the time, and then realize too late that we should have focused less on “busy-ness” and more on the “basics” of life.
Spending time with God is always time well spent. He guides us into a life of fullfillment and purpose. He is a God of order, of peace and love. He shows us the simple “basics” of a life with Him. Then we can spend time enriching not only our lives, but other’s as well.
Our time becomes “worthy” instead of “wasted”……..
December 11, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged birth, faith, God, Jesus, Joseph, kindness, love, Mary
Imagine getting ready to give birth to your baby, arriving at the hospital, and finding out that there is no place for you. That you could go and use the barn out back?
Then imagine that the baby you are carrying is the Son of God?
Nowadays, we are used to getting first class medical attention when it comes to having a baby. Being told that there is no room and to use the barn out back would be totally unacceptable. In fact, if I was carrying the “King of Kings”, the “Lord” of all creation, I would have to wonder why God just didn’t “make” room……..?
Were Joseph and Mary “fine”with this when they found out there was no room at the Inn? Did they question God about His plan? Why couldn’t God have pampered Mary and provided the perfect accommodations?
I am reminded that God’s love is not a “pampered” love, but a “perfect” love. When I find myself in what seems to be a precarious situation, God’s plan doesn’t always make sense. His perfect plan doesn’t always accommodate my comfort zone.
Jesus’s humble beginning was foreordained. Joseph and Mary made many sacrifices to be obedient to God’s plan. They gave of themselves in order to give to all of us. Their incredible faith and kindness -
- will forever be time-honored…………
December 13, 2008 · Filed under relationships · Tagged communication, conversation, forgiveness, Lord, misunderstanding, prayer
As my husband and I raised our two sons we got used to using certain phrases in our conversations. Because they were boys, sometimes the conversations could be short and blunt. Many times we would just be having a good time and whatever was said was all in good humor.
One of the phrases we used was, “you snooze, you lose”. Usually this would be said if someone didn’t do or get something quick enough. It was never thought of in a negative light, and was commonplace in our home.
One morning as I was organizing a youth event at our church, a woman asked me if there was any time left to sign up for the event. I told her that unfortunately the dates for sign ups had passed. Without thinking I blurted out, “you snooze, you lose.” Since this phrase was normal and not a problem at our house, I thought nothing of it.
Well, when the woman angrily spun on her heel and indignantly walked off, I had a sinking realization that what I had said was not taken with good humor. I made it a point to call her later that afternoon. She informed me that she was offended, and had to discuss it as a serious matter with her husband. I apologetically explained to her that I meant no harm, and that what I had said was a figure of speech which we used in our home.
Misunderstandings in communication happen. Innocent blunders can turn into quarrels. In order to make things right, we need to make the effort to understand the other person’s perspective, and to allow forgiveness to become the focus.
In the Lord’s Prayer we are reminded to – forgive others their trespasses, just as we have been forgiven ours.
With forgiveness - our “figures of speech” can be fun – and not fatal !
December 16, 2008 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Christmas, give, God, grace, Jesus Christ, love, motive, Savior
Why do you do what you do? What motivates you to do or say something?
During the Holiday season of Christmas, we become even more aware of the needs of others. Gift giving and get togethers bring people closer to one another. Taking the time to “chat” and offer encouragement goes a long way towards showing our love for one another.
Getting outside of ourselves is a refreshing way to manipulate our time and energy. Unselfish motives take on rewarding incentives. Greedy habits are replaced by healthy routines. The mundane becomes memorable………
If we are motivated by a sincere love for one another, our lives brim with the flavors of the goodness of the Christmas season. Who can then resist the essence of the majestic dawning of the new world to come -promised by our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Because of God’s pure love, Jesus was born. We can receive Him as our Savior and receive this wonderful gift purely through grace - God’s amazing grace. God’s motive of love generated by unending grace………….becomes our motive to love one another, even more than ourselves………..
……..then “giving” is no longer contingent on “getting”………
December 18, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged future, Jesus, promise, Savior, security, tomorrow
” I’ll do it tomorrow.”
If I say this to myself, it could mean I am procrastinating. On the other hand, there could be valid reason for waiting until “tomorrow”.
Knowing that there “is” a tomorrow seems to create a sense of security. If I always have a tomorrow, why worry about today? There is always “tomorrow” !
Unfortunately, our life here on earth doesn’t promise the security of tomorrow. Unforeseen deaths occur and take us by surprise. In the Bible it says – do not boast about tomorrow for you do not know what this day will bring forth…………….
Being responsible means we are to make plans for the future. These plans include family, friends and finances. But we should not overlook our spiritual plans. Where will my spirit go when I die?
Jesus said that if you believe in Him, and receive Him as your Savior, you will have eternal life. By resting assured in this promise, my security doesn’t have to depend on tomorrow. If I were to die today, I know I will live “forever”……………………….
……….and have plenty of “tomorrows” !
December 19, 2008 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Christmas, family, feud, God, Jesus, love, sin
Aaahhh………the perfect family…….. We all love one another, we all get along, we spend many times together making wonderful memories……………
Not !
“The Waltons”, and “Little House on the Prairie”, well, seems nice……but let’s be “real” ! Most families have “something” infiltrating the warm and happy pictures we have of the “perfect” family.
Families have been having troubles since the beginning of time. The Bible recounts many stories of troubling issues that still plague us even now in our “modern” times. Our environment changes but human nature and relational issues remain constant.
Jealousy, envy, covetousness, greed, anxiety, impatience are a few reminders of our “sinful” natures. No matter how hard we try to be “good”, failure is right around the corner. Feuds happen. Let’s face it, we truly are a bunch of sinners !
The Bible tells us that “no-one” is good………(Frankly, Santa probably sits around on Christmas Eve sipping Holiday Cheer in front of the fire, with no-where to go!)
But we don’t need “Santa”, we need “God” !………….God loved us so much, that even though we are sinful and “un-deserving”……He sent Jesus to take care of “all” our problems. Jesus took the blame for “everyone”…………………..unconditional love……..
…………the remedy for “any” family feud !
December 22, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged birth, Christmas, food, gift, holiday, Holy, Jesus, King, life, peace, simple
Better is a dry morsel with quietness, than a house full of feasting with strife. (Proverbs 17:1)
As Christmas Day approaches, concerns about food and gifts are on our minds. How much food? How many gifts? Will there be enough? Did I give enough?
The story of the “Wise Men” giving gifts to Jesus on the “first” Christmas forever marked in time this very special day of the year. They gave generously to who they knew was the “King of Kings”.
But Jesus did not arrive as a “King”. His humble birth and life of service brought Him very close to those with “meager” holdings. He led a life of “meager” existence. But what He gave to all of us was “priceless”.
He reminded us that our quality of life is not based on material possessions or status – that focusing on those things can bring us a life of trouble and worry. Jesus exemplified a simple and holy life. A life of true meaning and great worth.
He showed us that “much” can come from “meager”.
December 25, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged birth, bless, celebrate, God, Jesus Christ, joy, Lord, Merry Christmas
For unto us a Child is born………..
Celebrate the joy of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ !!
It doesn’t end on December 26th…………we celebrate the “living” Christ each day, all year long !
God richly bless you and yours this Christmas !
December 29, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged anticipation, calendar, celebrate, Christ, Christmas, New Year
Well, here it is, the “other side” of Christmas – the few days before the New Year celebration. Some folks are back to work for a short three day week, some are on vacation somewhere, and some are just living out their usual routine whatever it is.
After a six week long jovial anticipation of Christmas Day, celebrations with family and friends for a long weekend, our mood on Monday morning could be “questionable” ?
The Christmas tree is looking pretty dry, the Christmas clutter around the house is losing its endearing quality, and at the mailbox, bills are replacing the Christmas cards ……….
Still, we can hang on to the glow of the Christmas lights still shining at night, the hopeful anticipation of the coming new year………..the calendar week of Christmas/New Year isn’t quite over yet.
But the days will pass, and the calendar “will” shift to the new year. What won’t pass or shift or change or come to an end, is the “Christ” of Christmas. The celebration of Christ in our heart lives on every day throughout the years. We truly can anticipate and celebrate each New Year, knowing Christ is with us, and will be with us forever.
Now my mood can be “constant” in Christ, instead of “questionable” !
December 31, 2008 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged death, eternal, Heaven, Jesus, life, Lord, purpose, Savior, time, victory
“It’s time.”
We’ve all heard that phrase. Perhaps you’ve been sitting in a waiting room for your operation, and the nurse comes in and says, “it’s time” – or you’re sitting in a classroom waiting to give your speech to the class, and the teacher says, “it’s time” – or you’re waiting in line, sitting on your horse at a horse show for your turn in the arena, and the gate steward looks at you and says, “its time”………..
So often in life we experience meaningful moments that come our way in their own “time”. Seasons of life come and go, the years go by, and we realize that there truly is a “time” for everything. The Bible tells us that there is a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to live and a time to die………….a time for every purpose under heaven.
Ultimately, we are all headed toward the moment when “death” will say “it’s time”. We try not to think about it, but every so often we are reminded of it. Every one of us is in the waiting line for death’s doorway. We will get to the front of that line and perhaps hear the words, “it’s time”…….
If we know Jesus as our Lord and Savior, our place in line does not need to be marked by dreadful anxiety, but one of an excited anticipation of an eternal life of joy in heaven. Jesus had victory over death so that we may “live” with Him forever……………
so at death’s doorway, it will be “His” welcoming voice saying “it’s time”.
January 2, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged anticipation, control, God, hope, New Year
Let’s look to the New Year with hopeful anticipation of what God will do this coming year !
“He” is in control !
January 5, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged God, heart, Jesus, kindness, love, maintain, mind, neighbor, New Year, soul
We’re now officially into the New Year. It’s interesting that a feeling of “newness” surrounds us, even though, for many of us, life right now is pretty much the same as it was last year. But hey, what’s wrong with that?
Changes are good, but some things can remain constant, no matter what year it is. How about the kindness you showed to someone last year? Something that seemed insignificant, may have blossomed into something beautiful because of you.
An encouraging word or a helping hand can make a difference in someone’s life. Helping them “maintain” rebounds into our own life. We can carry back the joy of getting outside of ourselves.
Jesus reminds us to love God with all our heart, mind and soul – and to love my neighbor as myself…………
So even though it’s a “new year”, let’s “maintain” what was good about last year and keep it going, throughout the years ahead !
January 7, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged change, fall, life, routine, stop, treadmill, YMCA
As I was working out on one of the weight machines at the YMCA, I casually looked over at the line of treadmills. All six were being used, and I listened to the sound of the steady footfalls walking steadily forward. Suddenly, an elderly woman went down, face first, frantically shouting she couldn’t find the stop button. She slid and rolled off the end of the moving rubber mat onto the floor. She called for help as she struggled to get herself back up on her feet.
Oddly enough, no-one made a move to help her at first. The other people next to her on the other treadmills kept plodding forward on their machines, almost oblivious to the fallen woman in their midst. Thankfully, the situation at hand broke through their “stupor”, and they got off their machines and gathered around her. Someone arrived with bandaids, and she was escorted to the women’s locker room.
As I thought about what had happend, I was reminded that sometimes we are mesmerized on our “treadmills” of life. We plod along daily, oblivious to the fact that sometimes we need to be torn away from our daily routine to notice situations around us, to stop what we are doing. If our “treadmill” of life is going nowhere, maybe it’s time to push the stop button, and get off…….
before we take an unnecessary fall and get bruised…………….!
January 8, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, creation, God, Holy Spirit, Jesus, judgement, knowledge, truth, universe, wisdom
Over the years it has come to my attention that true wisdom is set apart from knowledge. You can have all the knowledge in the world, but not be a very wise person. Besides having knowledge, we need to have good judgement.
But where does good judgement come from? If I have knowledge, but don’t know how to apply it, what good is it?
Actually, knowledge isn’t any good without the means to use it, and to use it “wisely”. The Bible says, “the fear of the Lord, is the beginning of wisdom”. We are told that you can be puffed up with much knowledge, but yet be useless.
Knowledge needs to be guided by understanding………and true understanding comes from knowing God. The Bible is full of testimony to that premise. Many “wise” people over the centuries have testified to the mighty impact of God as the forerunner of true wisdom.
He encompasses the full spectrum of knowledge into wisdom. Nothing can measure up. His mark is upon our entire universe……….He created it…….
Wow— and He loves us so much He gave us Jesus His Son, the Holy Spirit, and the Holy Bible, to guide us into His wisdom.
Check it out – you’ll be forever “wiser” !
January 8, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Apostle Paul, cactus, desert, God, humility, pain, pride, protection, thorns, virtue
Thorns have a “bad rap” !
Living here in the middle of the deserts of the southwest, I have found that just about every plant out there proudly displays its version of thorns - prickly, sticky, spikey, spiney, and the stealthy !
Being out in this type of terrain can be a testy challenge for anyone who is unaware of their power! Once you have had the experience of trying to rid yourself of any type of these pesky pain inducers, you will make avoidance of them a virtue !
Although they come in handy for the plant’s protection, they certainly are not the type of environment that we would like to be in close contact. In the Bible, thorns are referred to figuratively as elements of pain, judgement, unbelief, barrenness, and even “agents of Satan” !
As we live our lives, we will come across the “thorns” every now and then – like it or not, they are out there. How I deal with them, or try to avoid them, can get easier if I can figure out how to live amongst them. The apostle Paul described his “thorn of the flesh” as the means by which he could remain humble in the eyes of the Lord, and dependent upon the strength of God. Paul realized that otherwise, he ran the risk of becoming prideful, self -sufficient, and arrogant.
So perhaps thorns don’t just protect plants…………in an indirect way, they can protect us !
January 10, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged behavior, fame, famous, foundation, good, Jesus, life, popular, rich, right, unpopular
Do you have to be rich to be famous? If you think about it, no.
Perhaps because of our technology, the wealthy people who are famous are seemingly the most well known. Although, sometimes you may find out that the wealthy exteriors were temporary. Being well off financially can help you to get known, but in reality, some of the most famous people and events had little to do with money.
Mother Teresa comes to mind – and on the flip side so does Charles Manson. These people became famous for their works, whether good or evil. They became well known because of their extreme behaviors and dedication to what they believed was right.
Many times, famous people become role models in our society. We can tend to look up to them, because of their popularity. But being popular doesn’t always mean that what someone stands for is good. In fact, the opposite is often the case.
Standing up for what is right can sometimes be an unpopular position. You could become famous, but yet lose your popularity……..and at the extreme, lose your life…………
Jesus Christ is an example of fame without fortune, or popularity – His fame has continued to be spread, throughout the world. He stands for all that is good…..but yet is still widely unpopular………..
In the end, we must focus beyond the fame and the famous -
- to the underlying foundation of the “claim” to fame………
January 12, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, books, control, emotions, exercise, family, finances, God, help, humility, management, mercy, responsibility, self help, talk shows, time
Life requires management.
Even if you are not technically a “manager” at your job, having to “be” a manager is unavoidable.
When we became old enough to take responsibility for ourselves, we had to learn to manage. Not only are there physical and emotional demands for ourselves personally to manage, but there are also relationships around us demanding attention as well.
Every good manager could use some help now and then. How can I handle my time more efficiently, keep my emotions under control, juggle my finances to cover what’s needed, spend time with loved ones, exercise, etc., etc……………..
Self help resources abound these days – books, internet, talk shows. Where all this information originated is worth investigating. I have found that the original “self help” book is the Bible. The information in there originated with God, and since He masterminded the universe – His credentials as the ultimate manager surpass anything on the planet !
In the book of Micah, we are told; to do justly – love mercy – and to walk humbly with your God……..
If I start with these three simple principles, I can better manage my life, instead of “it” managing me !
January 13, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged emotions, exercise, faith, fear, God, Holy Spirit, Jesus Christ, life, potitive thinking, recreation, resource, strength, test
Does the word “test” make you nervous?
For some people the thought of a test can invoke such fear that they are dumbstruck. But yet there are some who relish any challenge to be tested.
Some types of testing give us a chance to be prepared. We feel more confident when we are given advance notice and can study up or practice whatever it is we need to know. But in reality, much testing happens in our lives without advance notice. We can be taken unaware by circumstances beyond our control.
Our emotions our tested routinely throughout our lives. Unmet expectations, unforeseen disappointments , tragic events are crisis points we all contend with sooner or later. As time goes on, it becomes apparent that preparing for these “tests” can be a life saver.
But how does one prepare for the upsets of life? Avoidance tactics, stoic exercises of the mind, positive thinking , pleasure filled recreation are some of the most popular choices. To an extent, they are all good tools for a supportive strategy when trouble hits. But after time, their strength diminishes…….becomes faded………..runs out……….
The answer key to life’s tests ultimately points to our faith in God. When we receive Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we can now rely on the Holy Spirit to guide us to the strongest preparations and solutions available.
This resource “never” dinimishes, fades or runs out………..
January 14, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged God, organize, peace, power, refresh, schedule, time, vision, weariness
I’m so tired…………
I hear this phrase more and more these days. In a world of advanced technology, time saving gadgets, state of the art “stuff”, weariness is running rampant.
It seems so many of us are running somewhere playing “catch up”. Demands from jobs, home maintenance, personal paperwork, and relationships require us to “keep up” somehow, stay abreast and not fall behind.
What we shouldn’t fall behind on is our quiet time with God. A personal relationship with Him requires constant attention. When our best time is with Him, the rest of our time becomes better organized. Although weariness still remains a reality, we can trust in His promise that we can continually rest in “Him”.
His perfect peace arching over our endless schedules can alleviate our burdens, and bring us clarity and refreshment. He promises to guide us to vibrant visions for our lives fueled by His power. Then our weariness can reflect His good works through us………
…………….of those we need never grow weary !
January 15, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged free, friend, God, money, relationship, rob, service, talent, thief, time, tithe
Stop……..thief !
Most of us have probably not had that phrase yelled at us. We’ve heard it used in movies, seen it in stories we’ve read. It is usually obvious that the perpetrator has stolen something. Many times it is money, expensive jewelry or precious possessions which are taken.
But all around us there is evidence of other kinds of thievery. When personal business is done during company time, the employer is being “robbed”. A service could be considered stolen when it is rendered by a friend, and that service is “expected” to be either discounted or free, even though this is how they make their living. Time can be stolen by taking too much time from someone else with phone conversations, and visits which are too long. Ignoring relationships with others can “rob” them from having the chance to be a friend, partner, spouse, mentor…….
We can even rob God by neglecting time spent with Him - by not offering our gifts and talents to serve Him – by not donating to His Kingdom……….
In the book of Malachi it is said, “Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me ! But you say, ‘In what way have we robbed You?’ – In tithes and offerings.”
Hmmmmm……instead of getting something for nothing, how about …….
……..giving something to get nothing ?
January 17, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged failure, faith, God, good, home, job, life, perfectionism, pessimism, relationship
When someone says, “nothing can go wrong” – that makes me nervous!
Let’s face it, if something can go wrong, it probably will. Is that pessimistic? No, maybe “realistic”! All through our lives, we find out that nothing is “foolproof”.
Throughout history we’ve seen how mankind’s views of perfection have been thwarted. The sinking of the Titanic is one example. It was supposed to be “unsinkable”. The Berlin Wall “did” come down, Hitler never achieved the “perfect race”, the list goes on and on………….
Bringing this concept down to our own personal lives, we find that “foolproof” doesn’t exist there either. Our jobs, home life, outside relationships – they all include times of failure.
Failure is a fact. None of us can escape it. We can try to avoid it, but eventually it will find us. How we deal with it, can be more important than the failure itself. Fear of failure can paralyze us, cause us to hold back.
If we rely on our faith in God, His fortitude sustains us through failures. Many times we find that so called “failures” brought us to something even greater………..even to a point that perhaps it no longer seems that we have failed at all………because God promises to make all things work together for good…………….
…………. “He” is truly “foolproof” !
January 19, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged approval, average, control, depression, discouragement, expectation, failure, fear, God, Holy Spirit, imperfect, Jesus Christ, love, perfectionism
Life is all “mixed” up !
I call myself a “recovering” perfectionist! It has been later in my life that I discovered that being imperfect was fine. Looking back, I realize that trying to control not only myself but the world around me was virtually impossible, and fruitless.
Perfectionism potholes are all around us. Expectations which are too high either promoted by our own self, or others around us can cause us to stumble. Running around looking for approval based on accomplishments can put us on a difficult pathway to discouragement. Fear of failure , because being average isn’t “good enough” blocks our way.
When we find out that life is all “mixed” up with “imperfections”, it could be a relief instead of an annoyance. We as people are imperfect, and accepting imperfection actually releases us to discover new territory. We can feel more freedom in trying new things, and experiencing more joy.
If we try to be loved and accepted through perfectionism, we are destined for despair and depression. Our heavenly Father loves us all, just as we are. He sent His Son Jesus, to bring us into “His” perfect kingdom. Through Jesus Christ, our imperfections are washed away. The Holy Spirit continues to guide us into God’s perfect world.
“He” is the only “perfect” one, and we don’t have to be………..
………….what a relief !
January 20, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, Co-dependent, direction, God, healthy, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Lord, motivation, Savior, strength, tackle
I had a “tendency” towards “co-dependency” !
Being co-dependent allowed me to depend on someone else for motivation, direction, gratification. It was a great way to avoid dealing with myself !
Although it is always good to surround yourself with encouraging people, it is not healthy to depend on others to live your life for you. Breaking away from this unhealthy tendency was a rewarding process.
Receiving Jesus as my Lord and Savior was the most important first step. Through Him I was given the Holy Spirit to guide me into the truth – the truth about myself, as well as life around me. God’s Word in the Bible and prayer helped provide the strength I needed to tackle issues.
Now, I can be co-dependent on God – and that’s a “healthy” tendency !
January 22, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, Jesus Christ, joy, kindness, lonely, neighbor, pleaser, selfish, service
Please thyself !
Life seemed simple and easy when all I had to do was please myself. Being selfish fit right in with today’s culture. Go my own way, and do my own thing. Just think about my own self, and avoid dealing with others who got in my way.
Unfortunately, trouble finally came, and I found out, I could use some help. Not only that, but it started to become pretty boring just pleasing myself…………not to mention a bit lonely.
Daily doses of emptiness finally caused me to search for something more. My search led to Jesus Christ, who filled my life, abundantly. Now I need never be lonely, and I can look forward to each day with hopeful anticipation. My days now include daily doses of joy as I serve the Lord through acts of kindness towards others.
The Bible tells us to “love thy neighbor as thyself”.
Now pleasing “thyself” involves pleasing others, but most of all, pleasing my heavenly Father !
January 26, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, comfort, God, masterplan, order, plan, security
I’m a planner. I like knowing there is some sort of a plan. Within the plan, it’s nice to know there are options, A, B, C, D, etc………….
Life seems more orderly with a plan, more predictable, and secure. Many things we do benefit from making a plan first. The Bible talks about doing things in order and putting a plan together.
“Who” the planner is can make a difference. When someone with experience in the subject area puts the plan together, there is comfort in knowing things will probably go to plan. But what about those times when the plan does “not” go to plan?
That’s the time to hand everything over to the “Masterplanner” !
God !
January 28, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, destination, goal, Heaven, Hell, highway, Jesus, Lord, map, road, sign
Which way are you going? There are all kind of signs out there……..one way, this way, highway….no way! Any “way” you decide to go, will eventually lead you somewhere – or nowhere!
Figuring out where we want to end up will help determine the “best” way. In life there are many paths we can take towards our life goals. Not all of them will lead to our destination. Some will be dead ends, or be barricaded by the debris of distractions.
When we drive towards a destination, using a map helps us find the best route. Making life choices also depends on what sources we use to find our way. In the Bible are many examples of how to make wise choices. God gave us true life stories to help steer us away from destructive “ways”, along with examples of the best “ways”.
Ultimately, death awaits us, with either Heaven or Hell as our eternal destination. When we get there, we will find it was a good idea to have mapped out a ”way” ahead of time. That ”way” was receiving Jesus as Lord.
Jesus said that “He” is the “only” way to Heaven. No other “roads” lead there.
Make sure you are on the right road !
January 30, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Christian, football, God, Heaven, Hell, Super Bowl, team, victory
Well, the Super Bowl is almost here. Even though my husband and I are not into watching football on a regular basis, we still enjoy the festivities each year.
Usually there are great human interest stories about the players, coaches, and their families. Being in the Super Bowl provides a great platform for the Christians on the teams to express their faith.
Working together as a team and caring for each other is a prominent Christian focus. Developing character becomes primary, and winning the game secondary. The winning games will become old news, but the character of a human life will go on to influence lives for a lifetime.
We like to wonder who God would want to win the Super Bowl……..and we usually decide that He doesn’t care which team wins………….because there is a more important battle going on …….each team “player” needs to win the victory of eternal life in Heaven, instead of Hell……
……..now that’s the ultimate “Super Bowl” !
February 2, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged aspiration, career, Dad, family, maternal, Mom, professional, vocation
Women are wired to be maternal.
When I was growing up I thought focusing on a professional career was the thing to do. Being a Mom never occurred to me as an aspiration. Although I lived in a family where Mom stayed home and Dad worked professionally, vocations outside the home “seemed” more interesting.
Now I realize that being a full time Mom was the best “job” on the planet! My husband worked professionally while I stayed home. We raised two fine sons, and are now enjoying the fruits of our labors. They now have their own families and we delight in the grandchildren.
Investing in what really matters is priceless………no matter what the “economy” does !
February 4, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged compete, complete, different, employee, friendship, marriage, men, power, role, unisex, women
Part of being a woman is letting men be men!
In our society, men’s and women’s roles are becoming “unisex”. I have heard complaints coming from both sexes. Confusion and frustration have caused men and women to either battle with one another, or just give up and look the other way.
Power struggles plague marriages, friendships, and employee relationships. Who should boss who, or do what? Do we really want to share the same responsibilities, perform the same tasks?
No ! Men and women are truly wired differently. They are emotionally and physically set apart. Going against the “nature” of who we are sets us up for aggravation and unhappiness.
The research is out there to help us realize and accept our differences. By understanding each other, we can enjoy and appreciate how we can compliment one another.
We can “complete” instead of “compete”………….
February 6, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged balloons, choice, coffee, desert, fun, happiness, heart, Jesus Christ, joy, Lord, mind, Savior, strength
Balloons are fun !
On many mornings I have the pleasure of watching the giant hot air balloons float past our house. They come in many bright and festive colors. My favorite is the giant green saguaro cactus with the colors of the southwest desert as the backdrop. As I drink my coffee and watch them go by, I’m thankful that these people take the time and make the effort to bring something happy into our lives.
“Being” happy is another story. We still have to choose whether to be happy or unhappy. It comes down to a state of the mind and heart. Outside circumstances are helpful, but after a period of time, they lose their influence.
Our inner joy has to become the source of happiness. The source of inner joy has to be able to withstand all circumstances. This source comes from a deep relationship with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Through Him, we find the strength and reason for joy in our lives.
Then we can “really” have fun !
February 9, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged agenda, free, God, honesty, Jesus Christ, life, love, manipulation, relationship, truth
Have you ever felt manipulated?
Our society is filled with manipulation tactics. Business advertisements claim “free” products or services to get our attention. Friendly people approach us with hidden agendas. Sometimes we are used for what we know, or what service we can render, without being compensated.
Finding out we were manipulated carries with it a sense of dishonesty. Somehow, we weren’t shown or told the truth. It can be an unpleasant experience.
In life, truthful relationships without manipulation are sometimes hard to find. Thankfully, we have a God who “openly” tells us about, and ”freely” offers to us an everlasting relationship with Jesus Christ. It is “never” based on manipulation, hidden agendas………it is solely based on love……..
…………and it really “is” free !
February 11, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged attention, Christian, eternity, Father, focus, grandson, Jesus, Lord, love, Savior, Son, special, time, waffles
Our three year old grandson loves to help make waffles. Sometimes we’ll have them for dinner. Using the waffle maker intrigues him, especially the little green light that comes on when the waffle is done.
Spending time together is what makes this so special. He gets a chance to be the focus of our attention, and that makes “him” feel special.
Being the focus of attention from someone we love is not just for three year olds. Frankly, we all want love and attention no matter what our age. Feeling special puts a whole new spin on our daily existence. Everybody wants to feel loved.
Our Heavenly Father considers each one of us to be very special. He loves us so much, He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for us ……..so that if we receive Him as our Lord and Savior, we could spend all of eternity with Him. He wants to be with us…… forever.
Knowing that I am so deeply loved, makes me feel special…….every day !
February 13, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Christian, forever, Jesus, life, love, unconditional
I will love you “forever”.
So often these words are spoken. They are easy to say, especially when we are feeling good. But what happens on a “bad hair day” ?
Our love is put to the test on the days we “don’t” feel good. In the Bible, we are told about perfect love………it bears all things, endures all things, “never” fails…..it is “unconditional”. This can be a tall order when the frustrations of life are also on the “bill”.
Unconditional love just doesn’t happen by itself. We have to look past the imperfections of others (and ourselves). Jesus modeled for us what unconditional love really is – to lay down one’s life for another, regardless of who we are, or what we’ve done.
Jesus did that for me, and for the world. His love is real……..
……………and forever.
February 14, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Christian, God, life, love, truth
This day will end, but our love doesn’t !
God Bless You All !
February 16, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged atmosphere, Bible, Christian, entertainment, inspiration, life, medicine, moods, music, truth, worship
Music is “medicine”.
Our moods can be greatly influenced by different types of music. “Heavy metal” can actually create a feeling of heaviness. Wild “rock and roll” can create a wild and tense atmosphere. On the flip side, soothing symphonic instrumentals can soothe the soul. The comedian Steve Martin once used a happy banjo tune to create a funny light mood even while the lyrics stated that “your house just burned down” !
All in all, we are responsible for our choices of music. Many times, altering our choice could help to create a better atmosphere, not only for us, but for others around us.
In the Bible, there are many accounts of how music was used for worship, celebrations, and even for soothing mental disorder. Throughout the ages, and still today in our time, music “plays” an important role in our lives. We can be inspired by it………but also brought down by it.
Use it wisely – and “play on” !
February 19, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Christian, Creator, God, Jesus, Lord, plan, purpose, Savior, talent, truth
I often hear people say it is hard to be “themselves”.
In our society, it has become increasingly difficult to be yourself. Many times we find ourselves trying to be like someone else, or look like someone else.
Troubled childhood experiences can add to our distorted view of ourselves. People may have labeled us as “stupid”, or “ugly”. Sometimes we carry these false labels around our entire lives.
When we receive Jesus as our Lord and Savior, our Creator God gives us the discernment we need to realize the truth. We find out that “He” created us for a plan and a purpose. He gave us specific talents designed for His plan for our lives. He takes pleasure in watching us use these special talents.
Then we can truly be…………….ourselves !
February 23, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged character, choice, Christian, communication, conclusions, Jesus, love, meaning, offended, personality, relationships, truth
What is the “meaning” of this? Whatever do you mean?
We’ve all used or heard these common phrases. Communicating to others exactly what we really mean can sometimes be difficult. “We” know what we mean, but the other person may perceive the words we choose in a different way.
Sometimes people can be offended by whatever it was we have said. There are also times we do not understand what was said to us, and then we must “choose” if we want to be offended or not………..
Over the years, I have learned to be less sensitive to other people’s remarks. Many times, I have realized that they had no intentions of offending me. It was up to me to clarify what they really meant, and not jump to conclusions.
By paying more attention to the character and personality of the individual speaking to me, I can get a better grasp on what they are really trying to say……………and if it is safe enough to ask for clarification!
When I communicate to others, it helps to be “well-meaning” in the first place. Jesus tells us to love others as we love ourselves. He also reminds us that our “yes be yes” and our “no be no”………..
so be sure to “say what you mean” and “mean what you say” !
February 26, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, Christian, decision, folly, foolish, haste, integrity, Jesus, relationships, thorough, wisdom
After a “thorough” investigation, the following was concluded…………….
Sometimes, if we don’t take the time to check things out thoroughly, we can regret it. We might jump into something and find out later that what we participated in, and the people we were involved with, lacked integrity.
What looked good on the outside maybe wasn’t “good” after all. Finding out what the motives were, and the character of the individuals involved could have provided the information that was needed to have made a better decision………….perhaps avoiding whatever it was altogether.
Unfortunately, when we hastily enter into something we shouldn’t, we can get hurt by it later. In the Bible, we are told that “being impulsive exalts folly”.
Before stepping out, take the time to be more “thorough” ………….
……….. be “forewarned” instead of “foolish” !
March 2, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged behavior, Bible, Christian, evil, God, good, Jesus, knowledge, mentor, mimic, mockingbird, relationships, wisdom
My morning coffee time is enriched by the cheerful song of the mockingbird. I try to figure out how many different “tunes” he sings before he repeats them, and if he does them always in the same order. Then I wonder if he has his “own” tune thrown in there somewhere.
This bird must have spent time hanging around with other birds to have copied their songs. His talent for mimicking becomes very obvious as he then sits on the very top of a tree and runs through his repertoire.
Children also have a talent for “mimicking”. Spending time with our infant grandchildren makes me acutely aware of how quickly they mimic my mannerisms and words. It also reminds me of what an important responsibility we have as adults to model good behaviors and conversations, worthy to be copied.
Good behavior isn’t “good” unless we have the wisdom to discern what is good or bad. The Bible tells us that “when wisdom enters your heart, and knowledge is pleasant to your soul – then discretion and understanding will preserve and keep you.”
God’s wisdom never fails -
- if we mimic “Him” - we can feel more confident to have others mimic us !
March 3, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, Christian, Creator, eternity, God, Jesus, Lord, Old Testament, relationship, Savior, separation, sin, Son, Temple, veil
“And behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom…..”
In the Old Testament of the Bible, we learn about the veil of the Temple. It was used as a separation. Only the High Priest could physically go behind the veil and access a special area reserved to speak with God.
When Jesus Christ died on the cross, this veil was torn from top to bottom. Man did not tear this veil. God did. It was one of many symbolic events which occurred at Christ’s death………into eternal life.
This “tearing” of the veil was to let “us” know that there need no longer be any separation between us and God. We can now access God directly, through His Son Jesus.
Jesus paid the price for all of our sins. If we receive Him as our Lord and Savior, we can now go directly to God, our Father – through Jesus.
The “torn” veil was a powerful visual to all of mankind. It was, and still is, a vivid representation of an important invitation ——–to engage in a loving relationship with our Creator…………forever.
If a decision regarding your eternal destination has you “torn”………..consider placing that “tear” in Jesus’s hands…….
….you’ll never regret it !
March 5, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged anger, attitude, behavior, Christian, covet, Cross, envy, evil, God, good, heart, Holy Spirit, human nature, Jesus, joy, laws, Lord, remedy, rules, selfishness, sin
“Thou shalt not – lie, covet, steal, murder, take the Lord’s name in vain……..”
Anyone hearing or seeing the news reports of our society finds out very quickly that what shouldn’t be done …….. does. Unfortunately, just “knowing” what we should or shouldn’t do doesn’t seem to be an adequate remedy for the troubles of our world.
Human nature leans precariously towards falling into bad behaviors. There are many bad behaviors that are obvious enough for us to avoid as a general rule. But there are the subtle transgressions that can fool us into thinking we don’t fall into any of these ”sinful” categories.
The roots of “evil” can grow out of seemingly “good” soil. Growing up in a “good” home, being responsible, paying the bills, helping out in the community – these are all the fine trademarks of a good life. But sometimes underneath these outer layers of good deeds we can still hide attitudes of selfishness, envy, jealousy, anger………
It is not enough to just “know” how we should be – we also need to know “why” and “for whom” we live our lives………for without a higher calling and purpose, the “shouldn’ts” of life are just rules to try and follow, and also break.
Jesus came to save us from the endless attempts to keep “rules” that eventually get broken. He came to give us “new” hearts and attitudes, with the power of the Holy Spirit, to genuinely guide us into purity. Through Him, we no longer have to fear breaking any rules……….He took our penalties with Him at the Cross……
……….then we can think more about the joy of what “shall” be done…..instead of what “shall not” be done !
March 9, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged change, Christian, cooking, faith, God, life, meatloaf, recipe, strength
I like meatloaf !
There are different ways to make it. My recipe has seasoned bread crumbs, onion, milk, soy sauce and some lean ground beef. Other recipes call for eggs, sausage, and other spices.
The differences in recipes take on a personal flair according to our own acquired taste preference. Sometimes a better recipe happens when you’re out of one of the ingredients and you have to figure out a substitute.
This is similar to how my day turns out at times. The ingredients of “my” recipe got changed, and the day took on a whole new flavor from what I had planned.
Over the years, my faith in God has been strengthened by these changing “recipes” for my days. I find I have acquired a new taste for the various end results……..
and that “God’s” recipe always seems to come out “better” !
March 12, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, Christian, clean, gangs, graffiti, hypocrites, Jesus, law, relationships, righteous, transparent
Graffiti appears everywhere these days.
We see it on walls, street signs and any flat piece of public property. Some time ago spray paint cans were put behind locked glass doors at the stores to hopefully decrease graffiti. Apparently, the people responsible for defacing public property are still acquiring what they need because it is still being done.
Eventually, these gang signatures are “whitewashed” and then the cycle starts all over again. It becomes obvious that just painting over the graffiti doesn’t get rid of the problem. The real problem goes deeper. It begins with the people who are using the paint to make their mark.
Just cleaning up outward appearances by “whitewashing” doesn’t always clean up underlying problems. Although something may look “clean” on the outside, the “dirt” underneath could still be there.
In the Bible, Jesus talked about the hypocrites who appeared “clean” on the outside, but inside they were full of extortion and self-indulgence. He compared them to a “whitewashed” tomb, which appears beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of “dead men’s bones and all uncleanness”.
“Even so you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness”. (Math. 23:28)
Let us not be fooled by people who appear “whitewashed” on the outside…………and make sure we’ve taken the time to clean up ourselves……….
………….inside and out !
March 14, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged awareness, Bible, Christian, economy, encouragement, fellowship, furlough, Jesus, love, positive, relationships
Due to the economic situation, mandatory furloughs are being taken at the company where my husband is employed. These are week long absences from work without pay. No contact with work is allowed, no cell phone calls, no emails, etc.
Feedback on these furloughs has been interesting. People are finding out that this time off has allowed them to put their focus on other things. Spending time with loved ones has been a positive outcome.
Sometimes we need to have something taken away to guide us into an awareness of something more important, and perhaps more gratifying. Often, we can get bogged down with what we think we need to be doing.
Slowing down the pace, and taking the time to relate with other people enriches our lives. Encouraging others, and enjoying good times together is always time well spent.
In the Bible, Jesus reminds us to fellowship with one another, to take care of one another………………so don’t wait for a “forced” furlough from work to spend time with loved ones…….
…………make a “fellowship” furlough a part of your usual routine !
March 25, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Christian, clothing, economy, faith, food, God, Jesus, kingdom, needs, peace, promise, provision, shelter, trouble
What are you willing to live “without” ?
This has been on my mind lately, with the downturn of our economy. I am now having to modify my schedule and habits due to the changes. Businesses are shortening their hours of operation, employers are laying off or offering less hours, and costs for food, clothing, etc., are still gradually rising.
Here in America, we are used to prosperity and convenience. Compared to many other countries, we live “with” a great deal of extras. Giving up some of the extras is do-able. But of course, we physically can’t do “without” food, water, clothing and shelter. For those who are struggling with these necessities, daily living is a great hardship.
Whether we are living “with” or “without” – we need to put faith in God at the top of our list of necessities. Trouble comes to all of us at some point, whether we have much, or whether we have little. God promises to provide for all our needs, and cover us with His peace.
Jesus said, “Seek first the Kingdom of God, and all else will follow”.
When we have a relationship with the One who created “all” —–
—– we will never have to live “without” !
March 31, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, disciples, doubt, eternity, evidence, God, Jesus, Lord, resurrection, Thomas
Whenever I have doubts about something, it helps to be able to do the research to get the answers I need. Gathering up all the evidence I need to support my conclusion alleviates my doubt.
Although, sometimes even the evidence can come into question. “Tangible” evidence is ideal. If something is clearly defined, or better yet, able to be touched physically, how can there then be any doubt?
In the Bible, we are told how Jesus made sure that there was plenty of “tangible” evidence of His birth, ministry, and more importantly, of His resurrection.
He appeared to many people after He rose from the dead. One of the most memorable accounts was of His appearance to a disciple named “Thomas”.
Thomas had serious doubts, and Jesus made sure that He provided “tangible” evidence to alleviate these doubts. After His resurrection, Jesus made another appearance at a gathering of the disciples. He specifically asked Thomas to physically “touch” Him – especially His wounds………
And Thomas exclaimed, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28)
If we take the time to look, we will find that Jesus left the “tangible” evidence we need……. especially to alleviate the “doubting Thomas” in all of us………
……… and I am “eternally” glad He did !
April 7, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged belief, Bible, Christian, death, destination, detail, Easter, eternity, God, intentional, Jesus, life, resurrection
When was the last time you dusted the hinges on all the doors in your house?
Recently, my husband mentioned to me that the hinges on the doors needed cleaning………Now bearing in mind that my husband is a machinist, this remark should not be a surprise – machinists are very detail oriented – they need to be very precise.
Not all of us are this detail oriented. I tend to be more of a generalizer, a “let’s sum it up” kind of person. Admittedly, the hinges on the doors never occurred to me to need any kind of cleaning ! My amazement to his observation was later tempered by the realization that yes – the hinges did need to be cleaned……. But at the same time, I wondered where I should put this task on my “priority” list.
Our lives are filled with tasks to be accomplished. Some seem more important than others. The decision to be made on their importance is based on our perspective. Cleaning hinges is probably something I could live my life without giving it much thought.
But whether we are detail oriented or not, we will all have thoughts about getting old and facing death. Where we will go when that happens, is a “detail” we should put at the top of our priority list.
Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?” (John 11:25,26)
Out of everything, make your life and death belief a “detail” not to be missed…………..
………… your eternal destination “hinges” on this !
April 9, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, blanket, Christian, everlasting, Holy Spirit, intentional, irritable, isolation, Jesus, life, Lord, outdoors, peace, protection, provision, relationships, relief, Savior, sensitive, thankful, trials
In general, Thoroughbred horses are “thin-skinned”. They can be more sensitive to being brushed, and irritated by flies.
We owned a Thoroughbred mare for a number of months, and during fly season, she would run and buck. The irritation to her skin caused her to be very irritable. In order to give her some relief, we would cover her with a cool, cotton, body blanket. You could see her thankful expression and watch her spend time outdoors at peace.
In our world, we will meet people who are “thin-skinned”. They are sometimes overly sensitive to life’s difficulties. They can be irritated and hurt very easily. Often, they will “blanket” their lives with isolation to try and protect themselves, trying to provide some kind of peace.
Jesus said that in this world we will have trials. He also said that through our belief in Him we will have an everlasting peace………..peace which surpasses our understanding. When we receive Him as our Lord and Savior, we are given the Holy Spirit, and the added strength to withstand life’s trials.
It is “His” blanket of protection that allows us to spend time “outdoors” amongst the irritations of daily living ………
in peace !
April 11, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged celebration, Christ, eternity, free, intentional, Jesus, life, victory
The greatest victory of all time — victory over death !
Celebrate eternal life with the “living” Christ ———-
———-if you don’t have it – “receive it” —–
—-it’s FREE——–
April 14, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged alternative, angels, Bible, Christian, dentist, eternity, fire, furnace, God, Heaven, Hell, intentional, Jesus, pain, Savior, teeth, wicked
Going to the dentist is not one of my favorite pastimes.
I know I need to take care of my teeth, but I usually wait much longer than I should before I finally go to the dental center. When my name is called and I travel down the hallway to “my” room, the sounds and smells coming from the other rooms as I pass them cause me to feel nauseous. Entering “my” room, I dread the sight of the “reclining chair” where I will have to sit and try to remain calm.
Even though the people working there are trying to create a cheerful atmosphere, the underlying truth remains the same……..this is a “house of pain” !! Let’s face it, tooth pain is one of the worst. In fact, the Bible even makes reference to it. Jesus said:
“So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come forth, separate the wicked from among the just, and cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth.” (Math. 13:49,50)
Perhaps to really make His point - being thrown into the furnace of fire where there will be wailing and gnashing of teeth - is mentioned twice in the same chapter……
You know, tooth pain is bad enough, but to experience even more horrific pain on top of that - for eternity – well, I’m just VERY glad that Jesus gave us an alternative -
Eternal life with Him in Heaven,
where there will be no more pain…………
April 17, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged beliefs, bondage, Christ, Christian, faith, free, freedom, God, grace, intentional, Jesus, joy, law, legalism, Lord, New Testament, Old Testament, perfection, rules, Savior, sin
Are you really “free” ?
We talk a lot about being free. Free to think and do and say what we believe. In America, we are used to exercising our freedoms – especially our freedom of beliefs. Our beliefs are greatly influenced by our faith.
As Christians, we put our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. We are told throughout the New Testament that we are “free” in Christ – that we have been set “free” from the law of the Old Testament.
Over the years I have met many Christians who have put themselves back under “law”. They found saving grace through Jesus, but then seem to have slipped into a life of legalism. It has robbed them of their joy……..
Some have decided to put themselves under their own bondage of rules and regulations, and focus on perfecting their lives by how many of these “rules” they can follow. The apostle Paul warns us of this danger:
“Are you so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made perfect in the flesh? (Gal. 3:3)
Jesus died on the cross to set us free from the bondage of constant sin under the law. He was the eternal sacrifice for our sins. We no longer have to “perform” legalistic works to gain favor with God. It is through faith and belief in Jesus that we now have eternal favor with God.
We can now truly have “joy” and “justification” at the same time…….
en-joy!
April 27, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, Christian, distractions, duties, God, intentional, Jesus, peace, responsibilities, time, work
After being out of town for a week, Monday morning means facing “many things” !
What was I doing a week ago that I need to continue doing? Did I forget to do something that had to be done? The mail is piled up, the e-mails are piled up, the laundry is piled up, errands to be run are piled up, thoughts running through my mind are piled up………..!
Well, before I get buried under the “piles” of life, I need to spend time with the “One” who can dig me out! When I push away the world, find a quiet space, and spend quiet time with God, His peace covers me – instead of the “piles” of things to do.
In the Bible we read about Martha - she was troubled about all that there was to do and that she needed help. Jesus said, “Martha, Martha, you are worried about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41,42)
“Mary” was taking time to spend with Jesus, and His word…….while Martha was distracted with “much serving”.
What we do - does matter. What matters more, is “He” who matters most !
- and “His” name is Jesus.
April 30, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christ, Christian, courage, encouragement, eternal life, faith, fear, God, intentional, Jesus, power, resurrection, storm, thunder, weather
When my brother was a little boy, he used to be terrified of storms, especially the thunder. He would run and find a place to hide and cover his ears.
Later in life, he took a great interest in weather, and eventually became a meteorologist. Besides forecasting weather on the air, he has also coordinated weather safety events, and counseled others on emergency management during severe storms. His greatest fear became the focus of a life-long career.
Facing our fears instead of running from them, gives us a chance to learn more about them – and ourselves. Many times it is through our fear that we can find our greatest source of courage. In the Bible we are told that ”in my weakness, I can be made strong”. (2 Cor:9,10)
In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus faced tremendous fear. He relied on our heavenly Father to sustain Him. He knew that He could not do what He would have to do – alone. Only God’s power could sustain Him for the events leading up to His death on the cross – and only God’s power could resurrect Him to eternal life.
Fear has lost its power over us, when we connect with the One who “has” the power – instead of running from thunder, we can allow ourselves to be “thunderstruck” – by the One who invented it !
May 5, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged appetite, balance, Bible, Christian, eternity, gluttony, God, health, Heaven, intentional, Jesus, joy, love, moderation
Do you eat too much, work too much, play too much, talk too much……..?
How do we know if we are doing or having too much? At what point do we realize that there should be a limit?
It would seem logical that if whatever it is we are being gluttonous about boomerangs and ends up being hurtful, then maybe that would be the sign to stop………..although, stopping altogether may not be the answer either – maybe just cutting back would be good enough.
The Bible talks about the sin of gluttony. It is described as being a characteristic of the wicked, that it could lead to poverty, and that it is sternly forbidden.
“Put a knife to your throat if you are a man given to appetite.” (Prov. 23:2)
Overdoing something, even if it is a good thing, can end up tainting the goodness of it – even if it seems innocent. Finding the “balance” of moderation seems to be the healthy alternative. Sometimes it takes some trial and error attempts before we find that balance point.
I had to wonder – how about overdoing loving others? How about overdoing spending time with God? These seem like acceptable “overdoing” categories.
Then it occurred to me that overdoing anything, can take ”time” away from something else – and that ”something else” could be just as important……….hmmmmmmm……
- so until we are in Heaven where “time” no longer exists, “too much” will continue to be a problem -
- then “too much” will turn into eternal joy – forever……..and it will never be “too much” !
May 9, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged anguish, blessing, Christian, family, God, intentional, joy, love, Mom, Mother's Day, purpose, responsibility
Words do little justice to describe the anguish and joy of motherhood. There is no greater responsibility – with no greater purpose – with no greater reward………………..
God bless you all and may you all be a blessing to your families.
May 13, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged anxiety, Bible, bondage, Christian, concern, courage, freedom, God, grace, happiness, health, intentional, Jesus, life, Lord, panic attacks, peace, problems, protection, provision, Savior, water, waves, worry
Don’t worry – be happy ! These are the words to a popular song a number of years ago. (It’s still a good song!)
When we worry we bring others and ourselves down. It does not seem to accomplish very much. It is a paralyzing activity.
There is always cause to worry. Life is full of problems. These problems can bring on a state of fear that fuels a worrisome attitude. Then fear becomes our “worry” ! We can then be in bondage to panic attacks.
Facing our fear, even embracing it can prevent panic. God tells us in His word that He promises to protect and provide for us. Our faith in God’s promises carry us through these “waves” of worry – we can turn our worries into manageable ”caring concerns”.
“Therefore, I say to you, do not worry about your life……..”(Math. 6:25)
“”Be anxious for nothing……..” (Phil. 4:6)
I have experienced panic attacks, and they are truly terrible. I no longer am in bondage to them. My saving grace through the Lord Jesus Christ led me to God’s unending supply of peace – and courage.
Now when the waves of worry come, I dive headfirst up, through, over them. Sometimes I come up sputtering, but Jesus is always there to help me up, and keep me strong.
Now I can start to look forward to the “bigger” waves as they approach -
- and dive right in !
May 21, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, boundaries, Christian, conversations, encouragement, God, health, intentional, relationships, talk, tonic, toxic, words
Have you met a “toxic talkie” ?
Some of these people are obviously toxic – their language is full of swear words laced with anger. But there are others who are not so obvious. These are the people we have let into our lives, and then over time we come to realize that their lengthy conversations leave us with a bad “taste” in our mouth !
Subtle negative comments, self centeredness and insensitivity to your own needs become warning signs. Sometimes these people will push into your life with shallow caring words to draw you in, only to find out later that they had their own agenda.
Many times these people have had past hurts, and are looking for someone who will listen to them. Perhaps they have chosen you, but that does not mean that you must take responsibility for their feelings and moods. You can still show you care, and at the same time set healthy boundaries for yourself.
Personally I rely on my “ten minute timeline” for toxic talkies ! Usually within the first ten minutes the conversation can stay somewhat healthy. It gives you time to offer words of encouragement and then end the conversation before it becomes tainted.
“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.” (Prov. 25:11)
Let our words be the “tonic” for the “toxic” !
June 1, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged cost, eternity, fee, free, God, Jesus Christ, Lord, manipulation, open, paid, payment, price, salvation, Savior, service, truth
Have you read through the phone bill lately? I wondered why it was higher (again)……….
FEES ! More fees !
It seems wherever we turn these days there are fees for everything – they pop up to distort the “bottom line” on what you think you are going to pay for something. Services advertised for such a supposed low price sound good until it comes time to pay, and you are then told there are additional costs…..FEES!
Somehow it seems that we are supposed to be allright with this – as if paying more for something becomes acceptable because of these mystery fees….. what are they for anyway?
Perhaps it would be better to be informed of the “total” cost right up front – at least then it would not feel as if you were being manipulated, or told half-truths.
Thank you God that there is still something in this world that is not hidden from truth, and that requires “no” fees. This “something” is our salvation through the Lord Jesus Christ. It is open to anyone, with “no” hidden cost. Jesus already “paid” for everything.
Our eternal salvation is truly “free”……………with NO fee !
June 9, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged action, Christ, Christian, God, intentional, Jesus, kindness, mission, motivation, procrastination, purpose, talents
Missions motivate…….
There is something about having a “mission” – a purpose – that creates motivation – the desire to take action.
Throughout my life, I have had to battle with procrastination. There would be times I had trouble seeing the “purpose” of whatever it was I thought I should do, so I would put it off for “later”…….
What a difference a clear “mission” makes ! When it is obvious that you are needed – that your presence and talents will make a difference in someone else’s life………then procrastination can give way to a proclivity for action.
When I was asked to babysit the grandkids one Saturday morning at the early hour of 5:30 am – my response was, “coffee and a MISSION ………I’d be glad to come !”
Missions come in all sorts of sizes and variations. Even the smallest acts of kindness can be meaningful. Jesus said, “For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name, because you belong to Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.” (Mark 9:41)
Just make sure your “mission” has the good stamp of approval by the almighty “Maker” !
June 16, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, burden, choice, Christian, exercise, God, heavy, intentional, Jesus, life, light, load, music, negative, peace, positive, relationships, rest
As I was driving out of a parking space, a large SUV pulled into the space next to mine and cut me off from moving ahead. The woman who was driving (and talking on her cell phone) seemed oblivious to the fact that she had driven her vehicle in front of me.
I could have looked at this as an act of rudeness, that somehow she didn’t seem to care that I was there – but I didn’t………I calmly waited until she was parked and then just went my way.
As I drove away, it occurred to me that this incident could have “two tones” - negative or positive. I could think negatively about the woman who was driving and get angry, or I could let it go as a blunder, and not let it bother me.
I felt good about the fact that I had chosen to be positive about the situation. Then thoughts about why I had chosen to be positive came to mind. Was it the uplifting music I had been listening to that morning? Was it the great workout I had?
Positive circumstances can lead us into a good mood – temporarily……but what happens when negative circumstances outside ourselves become overwhelming? That great music and awesome workout won’t be enough to carry the load…………..
Jesus said, “take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Math. 11:29,30)
Let “light and easy” become your “two-tones” -
- with Jesus !
June 25, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged armor, battle, Bible, Christian, conflict, emotional, eternity, evil, God, good, Heaven, Hell, intentional, Jesus Christ, mental, physical, powers, principalities, protection, relationships, salvation, Satan, Savior, soldier, soul, spiritual, war, warriors
Warriors wage war.
We are all warriors. In life there are always conflicts of some sort which need to be dealt with. Whether these conflicts are small or large, we are faced with being “soldiers” of courage – or cowards.
Good soldiers must be prepared. There are obvious physical battles, but there are also those in the spiritual realm. These spiritual battles show up in various forms – physical, mental, emotional – leading to struggles between good and evil. Preparations for spiritual battles include praying and wearing our spiritual armor.
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. ” (Eph. 6:12)
Many conflicts we experience in life have their roots in the spiritual realm. History over the centuries records the continuous struggle between good and evil. From worldwide to the personal, the “powers” behind these conflicts are constantly at work – 24/7 !
Are you armed and ready ? If you think you are and you have not received Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you will be taken down – literally….to Hell… in the end.
Jesus was the only one who had victory over death – “He” has defeated the enemy (Satan) – and Jesus wants you to spend eternity in Heaven. It is only through “Him” that you can withstand the gates of Hell.
Put on “His” protection, and besides winning battles, you will win the ultimate “war” -
Eternity in Heaven - or Hell…………
July 2, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Basset Hound, Bible, Christian, discretion, dog, evil, exchange, foul, fragrance, fresh, God, good, intentional, odor, Proverbs, relationships, smell, understanding, wisdom
Basset Hounds look loveable. We have one who lives in our neighborhood and waddles down the street in front of our house every now and then. While working in my office one day, I happened to glance out the front window. I could see a couple of people hovering over this dog, and one of them bending down to pet him. The dog really enjoyed the attention and for a few moments it was a happy scene………..
But then…….I saw that the person who had pet the dog hold out his hand awkwardly – well away from his body – holding it way out, as he walked into the house next door………
I knew what had happened – the same thing had happened to me the first time I met this dog. He looked so loveable, and I bent down to pet him – then realized that the awful smell emanating from the dog was all over my hand ! It took a long time to get rid of the “smell” !
A “trade-off” ! With the “good”, came the “bad”. In life this happens all the time. Some trade-offs are worth the “smell” involved………..if the end result is good.
So what is good?
In the Bible we can read about many examples of good and bad, and gain the wisdom to know the difference. We are told that if we seek God’s wisdom, ”He” will help us find it.
“When wisdom enters your heart, and knowledge is pleasant to your soul, discretion and understanding will preserve and keep you……to deliver you from the way of evil….” (Proverbs 2:10-12)
The “odor” of our lives can be “fragrant” instead of “foul” !
July 10, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Adam, Bible, Christian, eternity, Eve, false, fruit, garden, God, good, Heaven, Hell, intentional, Jesus, Lord, prophets, sheep, teachings, tree, true, wolves
Strawberries, oranges, blueberries, mangoes, bananas, watermelon, raspberries, nectarines, peaches, kiwi, cherries……………….only a few of so many varieties of fruit ! Wow, the list is endless !
Each type of fruit has its individual taste – some are sweet, some are tart, some are sour – some are sweet “and” sour ! Most of the time we can identify each type of fruit by its distinct flavor.
In the Bible, we are instructed by Jesus, that we need to be aware of “good” and “bad” fruit. “A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit.” (Math. 7:18)
He was referring to false prophets, those people who “come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits.” (Math. 7:15-16)
We need to constantly be wary of false teachings that will lead us away from the Lord Jesus and our Heavenly Father. Many times these teachings look good from the outside, but if we take the time to “bite” into them, their bitter “taste” can sour our lives.
Don’t be fooled by the luscious appeal of first impressions. Find out from what “tree” these teachings are coming from………..or you could end up like Adam and Eve………
- and be thrown out of the “garden” of eternal life………..
July 20, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, Christian, courtesy, encouragement, God, intentional, Jesus, kindness, love, neighbor, relationships, sharing, swimming
I have been swimming laps regularly for about twenty five years. Sometimes I get a whole lane to myself, but often times the lane is shared with another swimmer. We swimmers come in all shapes and sizes, and different styles of swimming.
When sharing with another person, it would seem that showing courtesy would be the norm. We each get one half of the lane, and so passing each other either in the same direction, or opposite direction happens frequently.
I have found that there are many people who seem to feel that they need to take up most of the lane due to their adopted swimming style, or body type. Some have kicked me with their foot, punched me with their hand, or created such a turbulance of splashing water that I have sputtered my way to the other end of the pool to clear my airway passages !
“Moving over” to allow others to get by “unharmed” would seem to be an obvious act of kindness………..showing that we care for others, as much as ourselves.
“Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Romans 13:9) “Whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” (Math. 7:12)
Let’s practice “moving over” to help someone else get by…………
instead of “mowing over” someone else to get our own self by!
August 11, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Christian, God, grandson, hurry, intentional, Jesus, life, list, love, projects, recipes, relationships, time
“It’s taking too long!”
Our three year old grandson will sometimes make this statement when it seems that according to “his” time zone, whatever is happening is “taking too long”. He says it in such an endearing way, that most of the time I can only smile and agree that, sure, it does seem to be taking too long.
How often have I thought the very same thing – recipes I’ve tried, standing in long lines for something, projects around the house……….. Why do I think that way anyway ? What’s the hurry ? What else was I going to do that was so important ?
Being in a hurry seems to be an acceptable way of life in today’s culture. High speed days filled with an overwhelming list of tasks and/or places to go, people to see, etc. creates an atmosphere of urgency. If something “takes too long”, we are tempted to take a shortcut – or let it go.
I was reminded the other day that God is “never” in a hurry. It made me stop and think about how my relationship with God the Father, with Jesus, has taken many years to develop. It took me many years to find “Him” in the first place.
Thank you God that Your love for us is so great that You don’t give up on us and let us go - that You don’t look at us and say it’s ”taking too long” !
August 19, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, career, Christian, elderly, eternity, God, grandma, Holy Spirit, instruction, intentional, Jesus, mentor, Mom, over the hill, prime, promise, regeneration, relationship, renewal, Savior, washed up, wisdom, women over fifty
You’re all “washed up” .
This was/is a slang term here in America. When someone says “you’re all washed up”, it usually means you’re finished – done. It can also refer to being over the hill, past one’s prime, no longer successful or needed.
Women over fifty years of age can feel like they’re “washed up”. If you’ve been a full time mom and your kids are grown and gone with lives of their own, you may feel that you are no longer needed. Losing your youthful beauty and physical stamina can leave you with that “over the hill” feeling. If you are looking for a new career, the “past one’s prime” dilemma can bring you down.
In the Bible there are references towards Godly wisdom which adorns those who have a living relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ. The elderly are still greatly needed to present a living example of instruction to young men and women. As Christians, Jesus promises that we are “never” washed up. The Holy Spirit is constantly on hand for our regeneration and renewal.
“but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” (Titus 3: 5-7)
So if someone says “you’re washed up”, you may want to consider by “whose point of view” ?
Personally, I’ve chosen being “washed up” through Jesus……with the promise of being eternally “prime” !
You can too !
August 27, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, childhood, Christian, free, God, hoarding, intentional, Jesus, life, love, maturity, relationships, throw away, values
We live in a “throw away” society.
When we’re done with something, we throw it away. Whether it ends up as garbage, or just out of our life, getting rid of whatever it is, seems to be the most convenient thing to do. On the other hand, there are other things in our lives that we just can’t bear to get rid of – and we can become “hoarders”.
Basically, it comes down to a personal perception of value. If we don’t place much value on something, it becomes easier to throw it away, to give it up. Sometimes throughout our lives, these values can change, and with these changes come seasons of “cleaning up”……….getting rid of clutter, physically and mentally.
Little children save their pennies and baby toys until they discover there are other “bigger” and “better” things in life. Childhood relationships are traded in for more “important” relationships, those with greater “promise” of gratification. Until maturity brings an awareness of what is really important in life, we ride the teeter-totter of “throwing away” and “hoarding”.
“When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then I shall know just as I also am known. And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” (1 Cor. 13: 11-13)
Perfect love is never hoarded, never thrown away…….
—–only freely given….
September 4, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, blind, Christian, ditch, follow, God, intentional, Jesus, leader, Lord, Savior, serve, trouble, trust
“Follow me!”
We’ve all heard that phrase at some time or another. When I was a youngster playing with a group of friends, the “leader” person in the group would at some point beckon us to “follow”. Most of the time, I was a follower. As I look back, I can see how easily I put my trust in someone simply because that person decided to be the “leader”.
As time went on, I found out that some of these leaders weren’t very nice. In fact, some of them were downright bad, and I ended up getting into trouble because I chose to “follow” them. Frankly, no matter what age we are, we can still get into some kind of trouble by following “blindly”…….
“Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into the ditch? (Luke 6:39)
In the Bible we are reminded many times that we can get into trouble by putting our trust in man instead of God.
“It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man.” (Ps. 118:8)
“Follow Me,” Jesus said to His disciples, and to anyone who desired to trust in Him.
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45)
He came to die so we all could live………
………………… ”follow Him” !
September 14, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, food, fruit, fungus, God, good and bad, Jesus, Lord, mushroom, poison, Savior, teaching
Mushrooms are the “fruiting bodies” of fungus ? Fungus – “fruit” ? ! When did this happen ?
Apparently this is not new information, but to me it was. For most of my life, mushrooms have adorned my pizzas, salads, omelettes, burgers …… I have happily eaten and enjoyed them, especially when sauteed with a healthy dose of garlic and olive oil.
Sure, they are classified as “edible” fungus (fruit !) - but this now presents a mental dilemma. The term “fungus” brings to mind something bad – to be avoided – toxic. Some mushrooms are poisonous – period ! But on the other hand, good has come from fungus, such as penicillin, and yeast. So there are “good” mushrooms and “bad” mushrooms !
Well, whether or not ”edible” mushrooms are going to harm anyone, I am reminded that I need to take responsibility for whatever I put into my body – to be aware of any benefits, or possible harmful effects. This also pertains to my spiritual health as well. “Good” teaching will be of great benefit, “bad” teaching will poison my soul.
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits……..every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit…….therefore by their fruits you will know them.” (Math. 7:15-20)
Be “A-ware” of what is good – or bad (fruit) ………so you won’t be poisoned !
September 22, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged ark of the covenant, Bible, camping, Christian, eternity, God, Heaven, home, house, Israel, Jesus, life, mansion, purpose, retreat, serve, tabernacle, tent
Putting up a tent is not always easy - especially if you haven’t done it in a very long time.
Just recently I enjoyed a weekend in the woods on a women’s retreat and spent some time re-living the “tenting” experience. Eventually it took about ten of us to complete the task of putting up this particular two-room model. Even though we had the official directions, we still needed some people who had previous experience to finally finish the job. We took pictures of it, hoping that with these visual aids, it would be easier the next time.
In Biblical times “tenting” was a normal every day occurrence. They were used by shepherds, armies, and common people on the move. The Lord Himself requested the ark of the covenant to be housed in a tent of His specifications to be “on the move” with His people.
“For I have not dwelt in a house since the time that I brought up Israel, even to this day, but have gone from tent to tent, and from one tabernacle to another.” (1 Chron. 18:5)
As Christians, God may ask us to be “on the move”, from place to place, to serve Him and His purpose. We are reminded that we are “only passing through” this life here on earth, until we get to our final eternal home in Heaven.
Jesus tells us that “in My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” (John 14:2)
Our “final” move from here to eternity, will be a whole lot easier !
September 30, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, children, Christian, damage, eternity, faith, fire, forever, God, heat, Israel, microwave, promise, provide, provision, smoke, water, wonder
Our microwave is over 25 years old !
We bought it in the mid 80′s. (Not brand new, but used) It also went through our house burning down in the 90′s. During that event it suffered water, heat and smoke damage. We cleaned it up and it ran fine. We’ve been using it everyday, many times a day all these years, and it is still running fine ! It’s big, simple, and let’s face it – a working “wonder”. It seems to never “wear out” !
In the Bible, we learn that God’s provisions for the children of Israel never wore out during their wilderness experience.
”And I have led you forty years in the wilderness. Your clothes have not worn out on you, and your sandals have not worn out on your feet…” (Deut. 29:5)
Whatever wilderness experience you may be going through, God’s promise to provide for His people has never changed. His “working wonders” go beyond clothing, shoes, and microwaves……….
……..to the promised land of eternity with Him – forever !
October 8, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, Christian, clean, God, good, healing, health, Jesus, love, mess, purpose, sick, water
It was time to retrieve our one year old grandaughter from her bed. Our three year old grandson went up the stairs ahead of me to help out. As I approached her room, I heard our grandson exclaim, “she made a big mess!” I wasn’t too concerned at that point. I figured she probably just threw all her toys out of her crib. But upon arriving on the scene, I quickly realized it was a whole lot more than toys all around her crib. She had thrown up, let’s say – spewed, all over herself, the crib, the carpet, her blankey – and it was tangled up in her hair…………..
Well, since it was a hot summer afternoon, I decided that it might be best to just take her outside in the back yard and hose her off. I also took the pad from her crib and took that outside to hose off too.
One thing led to another, and the three of us had a wonderful time hosing off the pad, and each other for the next couple of hours. We ended up using the pad for a clean place to stand and sit while running the water over us. I thought to myself that what had seemed a depressing, messy situation had eventually led to something very good.
Many times in the Bible we see how God brings good out of bad circumstances. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” (Rom. 8:28)
“He” can take any mess………….and clean it up !
October 16, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged airline, Bible, choice, Christian, delay, entertainment, flight, God, Jesus, Lord, movie, pleasure, praise, safety, salvation, sing, song, thankful, time
Our return flight kept being delayed in half hour increments. Finally, we all were allowed to board the replacement airplane. Apparently, the plane that was originally scheduled to be used had some sort of mechanical failure. While we all boarded and found our seats, I found myself being thankful that this newer aircraft had been provided for us.
An hour into our flight, I began looking around for the screens that should be providing entertainment. There were none on the seatbacks in front of us, and no screens folding down above us either. I double checked the movie schedules in the airline catalog in the seat pocket, and thought to myself, “we are supposed to have a choice of movies, so where’s the screens?” As time dragged on, I realized – NO MOVIE !
I couldn’t believe it – this was a four and a half hour flight, and no movie ?? With mixed feelings of indignation, panic and boredom, my thoughts traveled back to how thankful I had been when we first boarded the aircraft. After all, shouldn’t the fact that we were riding in a safer plane be more important than gratifying my craving for an entertaining movie to pass the time?
Looking out the window, surveying the blue sky and puffy cloud formations, a song came to my mind:
“Behold He comes – riding on the clouds – shining like the sun – at the trumpet’s call – lift your voice – it’s the year of jubilee – out of Zion’s Hill salvation comes”
My pity party turned into the pleasure of praising the Lord -
- a much better way to spend the time !
October 26, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged believe, Bible, Christian, friend, friendship, God, Jesus Christ, Lord, love, masquerade, truth
Someone who has friends must be friendly………(Prov. 18: 24)
What is a true friend? The Bible lists the attributes of friendship as being loyal, willing to sacrifice, likemindedness.
Sometimes people who we consider to be our friends are “masquerading” – they appear to be true friends at first, but at some point let us down. Perhaps they were the kind of person who based their friendship on what they could “get”, instead of what they could “give”. When they found out they were’nt going to get anything from you, they moved on to someone else.
There is one “true” friend who will never leave you nor forsake you. That friend is Jesus Christ. He came to “give” Himself, so that we can be His friend forever. He shows no partiality, no hypocrisy – we all can be His friend. He loves us unconditionally.
All we have to do is believe that He died for our sins, rose from the dead and accept His lordship over our lives. There is no “masquerading” – the entire story is out in the open for all of us.
“Give” yourself to “Him” – and you won’t have to “get”…….
November 4, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, celebration, Christian, Christmas, evil, God, good, Halloween, holiday, Jesus Christ, Thanksgiving
I’m glad Halloween is over !
Every year I am faced with a dilemma – do I totally ignore it, or do I participate in it with an element of goodness.
A number of years ago, I learned about the origins of Halloween and the meanings of the “traditional” activities that go along with it. Unfortunately, they are all based on “evil”. There just doesn’t seem to be anything “good” about this so-called “holiday”. Somehow, celebrating evil just doesn’t seem right.
Well, what about carving pumpkins with happy faces and trick or treating with happy costumes ? Why not try to make this “holiday” good? Can that be so bad?
As Christians we are called to live “holy” lives. “Test all things; hold fast what is good, abstain from every form of evil.” (1 Thes. 5: 21-22)
Over the years, my husband and I have abstained more and more from the activities of Halloween and now find it very easy to “pass-over” to that which is “good” – thanksgiving to the Lord, and the celebration of the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas !!
November 11, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged America, Bible, Christian, flag, freedom, God, holiday, life, patriotism, truth, Veterans, war
It’s Veteran’s Day today.
On my street, our house is the only one displaying the American Flag. Why? I have also noticed that this was the case on other patriotic holidays – but yet on holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, etc. folks show their appreciation and decorate their homes……..
Why are we apt to participate in some events and not others? Have we gotten complacent in our lives here in America, that we don’t have the time or motivation to show our appreciation for the heroes who have kept our nation free? Is this a reflection of today’s culture?
Looking outside ourselves and realizing that those who gave their lives to “serve” others, and to serve our nation deserve our unending gratitude.
“Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” (John 15: 13)
Our soldiers have given the ultimate sacrifice, and continue to do so. Let’s not forget them or take them for granted. They are extraordinary.
God Bless them, and God Bless America !
November 20, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged allergies, asthma, Bible, Christian, cleanse, detox, fatigue, God, health, herbs, infection, intestines, Jesus Christ, joints, Lord, lungs, pain, parasites, prayer, rheumatoid arthritis, Savior
My health is being threatened.
All through our lives we deal with circumstances that threaten our welfare. One of these is poor health. There are many variables to consider when pursuing the best possible treatments and causes.
Unfortunately, we are not always given the correct remedy, or advice from those in the medical field. Many times we are given routine prescriptions to try and ward off symptoms, but then are still left with wondering what is causing the sickness in the first place. Too often the symptoms reappear at a later date, and we go through the cycle all over again.
This is the second time in my life I am battling a parasite infection. The first time around (ten years ago ) I was to told that the extreme joint pain and fatigue I was experiencing was due to rheumetoid arthritis and to just take daily aspirin.
I decided not to accept that diagnosis and put my problem to prayer to the “Great Physician” – our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It was “He” who led me to discover the cause and solution to my sickness. The cause was a parasite infection and the solution was the herbal cleanse and rebuild treatment that addressed the removal of the parasites from my body. My joint pain disappeared, and the other bonus was that my asthmatic allergies disappeared as well.
“Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray……..and the prayer of faith will save the sick and the Lord will raise him up.” (James 5: 13-17)
November 27, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, Black Friday, Christ, Christian, Christmas, frenzy, gifts, God, holiday, Holy, Jesus, peace, shopping, stress, Thanksgiving
I’m not really a “shopper”.
That does surprise some of the ladies I know. And this being the infamous “Black Friday”, I find it more enjoyable to steer clear of the shopping areas around town. Sure, I do hear that there are some bargains out there to be had, but personally, the stress level involved doesn’t seem worth it.
Recently, I did hear about the person who “died” being trampled by the stampede of shoppers. So in order to somehow avoid this “frenzy” from happening, some of the stores are starting the “Black Friday” at midnight the night before………………
Thanksgiving Day seems to get shorter every year in order to jump-start the purchasing of Christmas gifts. Christmas decorations were going up before Thanksgiving, instead of the traditional days afterwards. We don’t seem to get to enjoy the actual holiday, because of the “selling” of the next one in line.
There are those of us who have decided to not enter into this madness of society, and to slow down and enjoy the holidays as “Holy-Days” – as they were intended.
“If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.” (Col. 3: 1-2)
Ward off the “frenzy” with “faith” in the living Christ who shows us what really matters – and have peace this Christmas season.
December 7, 2009 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, blessing, chaos, Christian, error, eternity, forgiven, God, guide, Jesus Christ, judgment, mathmatics, mistake, mistaken, right, rules, society, wrong
Ooops ! I made a mistake !
I really don’t like to make a mistake. I like things to go smoothly and without problems – but that is not a realistic expectation.
Some mistakes seem bigger than others. Perhaps the size of a mistake is relative to how much is involved, or how many people are involved. Then there is the question of whether whatever happened was really a mistake after all ! Have you ever looked back in time and realized that what you originally thought was a mistake may have been a “blessing in disguise” ?
So then, who ultimately decides if something was a mistake? Yes, mathematical errors are easy to detect, because there seems to be clear cut rules. But what about our lives ? Are there clear cut rules, and if there are, who could possibly have all the answers to make an accurate judgment call ?
Sooner or later, we have to understand that being “right” or “wrong” helps us to know if a mistake was made. Without knowing what is right or wrong, or subjectively deciding what we think should be right or wrong - leads us into social chaos.
The “Bible” was written for all of us to have an accurate guide as to what is right or wrong. God outlined the “rules” to follow and gave us “real live” examples of people who lived before us who made “mistakes”. The good news is that mistakes can be forgiven. God sent Jesus Christ to forgive all past, present, and future mistakes.
It is because of Jesus that we can be ”forgiven” ………..
and not “mistaken” !
December 15, 2009 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, celebration, Christ, Christian, Christmas, family, food, friends, gift, God, holiday, Holy, Jesus, ministry, perfection, relationship, Savior
What task should I do next?
During the Christmas season this question can come up more times than usual. Our lives can be brimming with the “tasks” of Christmas. Shopping for gifts and food, cleaning and decorating our homes, donating to special ministries and charities, sending Christmas cards, baking special holiday treats, contacting friends and family members we haven’t seen or talked to in awhile, etc., etc.
Every so often, we are reminded about the reason for the season, the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ – our living Savior. For a little while we can stop all the above and put our thoughts back into perspective and perhaps even cut back on some of the “tasks” we have set before us.
Too many tasks can cause us to work too hard for that perfect Christmas. The perfect Christmas already happened ! This is the season to celebrate the greatest gift that has already been and still “is” being given – freely given - our saving relationship with Jesus, the Son of God. We don’t need to work for it, all we have to do is believe…….
“What shall we do , that we may work the works of God?”, the disciples asked. Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent.” (John 6: 28-29)
Jesus fulfilled His Holy “task” on earth for all of us – on the cross -
……..it is finished – HALLELUJAH !
December 31, 2009 · Filed under Uncategorized · Tagged blessing, Christian, Christmas, drink, festival, God, Jesus, joy, Lord, love, New Year, refreshment, Savior, singers, wassail, wassailing
What’s wassailing?
Sometime during the Christmas season you might hear the “wassailing” song. “Here we go a-wassailing among the leaves so green……..love and joy come to you, and to you your wassail too, and God bless you and send you a happy new year”.
Going from house to house singing this special song was called “wassailing”. A festive drink concoction called “wassail” was the holiday refreshment enjoyed by the singers. All in all, it was meant to be a joyous affair, wishing good will and God’s blessings on everyone.
Nowadays, people may not travel from house to house singing, but the Christmas tradition of getting together with loved ones and enjoying festive music, food and drink still endures.
Wishing good will and God’s blessings on everyone continues to be the “reason for the season” – God blessed us with the birth of His Son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ – the most special blessing for the whole world.
So whether you go a’wassailing or not, this is the time to celebrate !
“And God bless you and send to you a very happy New Year !”
January 7, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged answers, anxiety, Bible, Christian, comfort, control, eye, God, health, helpless, horse, illness, Jesus, Lord, peace, Savior, theory, trust
A theory can seem true, until it is proven wrong.
My horse has had a swollen eyelid and runny eye for almost two months. I’ve heard about a number of theories – different sources proclaiming their theory on probable causes and possible solutions.
I have methodically tried three treatments so far, and none of them have worked. The vet has ruled out some possible causes by giving a thorough eye exam. I am now trying remedy number four, and it will take another week to see if this will get rid of the problem.
Being patient through an extended period of illness without knowing what the outcome will be is frustrating. Lack of control brings an anxious feeling of helplessness.
Jesus tells us to not be anxious, that our heavenly Father is in control. We can “theorize” all we want about a given situation, but ultimately, God has all the answers. “He” doesn’t have to deal with “theories”. By putting my trust in Him, my feelings of helplessness can subside. No matter what happens, I can find peace in knowing I am not alone – God is always there …………..
………now that’s a theory that has already been proven !
January 16, 2010 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Christian, compassion, cooking, food, frying pan, grace, love, marriage, patience, relationships, self-control, special
Have you ever had a “frying pan” moment?
A frying pan moment is when you feel like bopping someone over the head with a frying pan ………..
You know the feeling – it usually comes on when you are faced with someone who just doesn’t “get it” !
Somehow a bop to the head could bring that person back to reality, or a better understanding of it ! Well, of course we can’t go around bopping people over the head with a frying pan……..those scenes are saved for the movies where fantasy can substitute reality……….
In the “real” world, we have to come up with a better way to handle those frying pan moments…….
Recently, I created a stir fry dinner for my husband (and myself ) using three of our cast iron frying pans. Each pan was necessary for a separate ingredient which would all come together later. It took quite a bit of time, and since I had gotten a late start on this dish, we ended up eating our dinner later than I had planned. When I went to bed, my husband was still eating and enjoying a favorite movie.
Now I really do not like to face dirty dishes in the morning, it happens to be a pet “peeve” of mine. The next morning when I went into the kitchen to make our morning coffee, lo and behold, the frying pans were sitting on the counter unwashed………..
I wondered to myself, “couldn’t he have washed the pans when he got done eating last night?” – He knows I don’t like dirty dishes in the morning…….and he was the last one to go to bed………hmmmmm…….usually frying pan moments aren’t this literal !
A thought came to my mind – I had prepared this special dinner for my husband because I love him, and I knew he would enjoy it. I decided I would wash the pans and “not ” turn this into a “frying pan moment” !
……..food for thought !
January 26, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, excitement, God, happiness, Heaven, hope, Jesus, job, joy, Monday, pain, Savior, suffering, truth, work
It’s the “morning after” the weekend – it’s Monday……..
Are you excited and filled with joyful anticipation of what lies ahead for the coming week?
Or – do you sleep until the last possible moment and gloomily drag yourself around wondering how you will survive the coming week?
Frankly, I have experienced both scenarios. Of course I would rather be excited and joyful and looking forward to the most happiest of weeks. If I ruled the world, that would have to be the norm – for everyone !
But I am not in charge of this world – God is. There are times I question His management (can you imagine that?). But you know, He created everything, He must know what He’s doing…….
Then, why do bad things happen, why is there such pain, suffering and sorrow? Why would a good God allow bad to happen?
In the Bible we can read about people who have asked the same questions. We can read about the bad things that happened to really good people. Check out what happened to Job. His story is brought up very often when these confounding questions arise.
He lost everything – his children, property, health, friends. But we find out that God allowed these things to be caused by Satan – for a very important reason. Would Job still love and have faith in His God, even after he lost everything near and dear to his heart. Would Job still trust God? Would he trust “God’s ultimate plan” ?
Thankfully, we have this extraordinary “true” story, (amongst others), to read and be encouraged about God’s desires for all of us – for our lives to have a “happy” ending………..
………..an eternity in Heaven – where Monday mornings won’t exist !
February 4, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged anxiety, Bible, Christian, empowerment, escape, fear, God, Jesus, Lord, love, power, Savior, scared, snare, strength, trap, troubles, worry
Have you been “troubled” about something for days on end?
Do you over analyze, emphasize, and then assume the worst? Have you fallen into this “troubled trap” – only to find out later that you spent incredible amounts of time exhausting and frightening yourself – for nothing?
Our world is full of “troubled traps”. These places abound in fear and worry. They hold us in their snare, creating an environment of supposed “no escape”.
Well, Jesus tells us that troubles will come, but He also tells us there is always an escape. In John 16:33, Jesus says, “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
We are never “trapped” by the world’s fearful snares. When we have accepted Jesus as our personal Lord and Savior, we forever have Him to save us. He also gives us the Holy Spirit to guide and lead us to safety.
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” (Proverbs 18: 10)
“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)
When you become snared and scared, ask the Lord for help……..
………..and be empowered by “His” power !
February 10, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged barrier, Bible, builder, Christian, emotions, God, Jesus Christ, Lord, maintenance, power, protection, rock, Savior, strength, wall
What wall are you building – or tearing down?
A strong wall can enclose us and serve as a protective barrier. It can also be used to separate and/or to hide behind. It’s strength depends on the materials used to build it. It’s purpose depends on the reason it was built.
The Bible sometimes refers to “walls” which we create with our emotions. We can build them with pride -
“And like a high wall in his own esteem.” (Prov. 18:11)
We can build them with rebellion and hypocrisy -
“……….you whitewashed wall! For you sit to judge me according to the law, and do you command me to be struck contrary to the law?” (Acts 23:3)
Healthy, protective walls can be built upon the “rock” of our Lord, Jesus Christ. When we build them with the power of the Holy Spirit, they can serve to keep us from evil. Maintaining them requires daily strengthening with reading God’s word, prayer, and fellowship with other believers. If we become lazy and complacent, these barriers of protection can be slowly chipped away and become weak -
“I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man devoid of understanding……..its stone wall was broken down.” (Prov. 24:31)
Don’t allow your “wall” of protection to be broken -
- spend daily strengthening time with our Master builder !
February 18, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, camel, Christian, Commandments, eye, God, Heaven, Jesus, kingdom, Lord, needle, Savior, thread, wealth
As I’ve gotten older, it has become harder to thread a needle. Even when using my reading glasses it is very difficult to see the tiny opening. Lately, I have to just keep trying over and over to get the thread in there, most of the time by chance.
Sometimes while I am doing this, I think about what Jesus said: “Assuredly, I say to you that it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. And again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” (Math. 19:23,24)
I can hardly get a tiny piece of thread through the eye of a needle, much less thinking about a camel! Of course, Jesus was letting us know the impossibility of a rich man entering the kingdom of God. This young man had told Jesus of how since his youth he had kept the Commandments. Jesus told him if he wanted then to be perfect, to go and sell all that he had. The young man went away, not being able to let go of his possessions.
Jesus’s disciples were amazed at this and asked, “Who then can be saved?” ( Math. 19:25)
Jesus replied, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Math. 19:26)
We cannot earn our way to Heaven, no matter how hard we try. God made it possible through our Lord Jesus, and Him alone. Accepting Him as Lord and Savior gave us the opening we needed………
…….. without the camel !
February 27, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged ageing, appearance, beauty, Bible, Christian, facelift, fun, God, inner beauty, Jesus, joy, midlife, smile, women, women over fifty, wrinkles, youth
Let’s “face” it – we women want to be attractive. It is in our nature. We are drawn to beauty, and desire to be beautiful.
When we are young we rejoice in our youthful appearance. Life is filled with wonderful moments and adornments. Part of the fun for any occasion would be the creativity of our outfits – expressing who we are, and who we desire to be – and who we wish to attract…….
Midlife brings new challenges to that outward appearance ! It is a time of letting go of our youth, surrendering to the end of an era of which we have grown accustomed. It is a reflective time, and a time to decide how we will handle growing older – to decide on how we will be “beautiful”……
I must admit there were times I wondered about what it would be like to have a facelift. Looking in the mirror, seeing the changes in my face, pushing my cheeks up with my hands to remember the way my face ”was” - thinking, “gosh, can I get used to my new look?!”
One day as I contemplated how I would handle these “elderly” years and the inevitable changes, an insightful thought came to mind. I knew it was a gentle reminder from the Lord - ”the best facelift is a smile !”
I smiled…….
March 9, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, God, good news, Jesus, Lord, message, messenger, Messiah, New Testament, Old Testament, prophecies, prophets, Savior
The “messenger” has come……..
Is it good news – or bad news?
The familiar phrase, “give me the bad news first, and then the good news”, comes to mind. Most of the time, I only want to hear the good news! But yes, we can’t get through this life here on earth without bad news at some point.
Most of the time the “messengers” in our lives have come to speak of or about something or someone other than themselves. They have “come” to provide us information – which could turn out to be important, maybe even life altering.
Whoever they may be, they sometimes take great risk in being persecuted for the message they bear. In the Bible, we are given many examples of messengers who were persecuted. From the Old Testament prophets to the New Testament disciples, there were many of God’s people paying with their lives to deliver life altering “news”.
Even though their message was the ”good news” – apparently it was “bad news” for those who didn’t want to receive it. Jesus was one of the most important “messengers” in history. He not only relayed His news from God the Father, but His life, death and resurrection fulfilled the prophecies of the Old Testament prophets from years ago.
Our Messiah is the eternal messenger, who became the message, for anyone who will receive Him—-
——–let Him be your good news.
March 24, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, clerics, God, hair, Hindu, humility, India, mercy, money, monks, priests, religiocity, religion, reverence, rituals, sacrifice, tonsure, United States
Tonsure?
This was new to me. I just recently learned that this is an ancient religious ritual of cutting off the hair, or shaving the head, to show reverence to God. Depending on the religion, it could either be a requirement, or a voluntary act of showing humility and sacrifice – mainly by clerics, priests and monks.
However, tonsure for women is a modern day ritual in the Hindu religion of India. Many women are being encouraged to willingly sacrifice their hair. The hair is then sold, and the money given back to the temple. Unfortunately, a black market, of sorts, has arisen from this practice. There seems to be a huge demand to bring in straight black Indian hair to the United States, particularly for African-American women. It is used in a weaving process to create smoother hair styles. Large sums of money are being paid for this hair, and tonsure has become a source of economy for some Indian communities.
As symbolic acts, these sacrificial rituals can become a religion – and take us away from a true relationship with the “one true God”.
“For I desire mercy and not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.” (Hosea 6:6)
God would rather have our hearts……….
- than our hair !
March 31, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, commands, destiny, eternal, God, heart, history, ideas, Jesus, law, printing, prophets, stories, texting, typing, word, writing, written
“So let it be written – so let it be done!”
There’s something about the “written word” that makes whatever is written seem somehow more - official. It’s as if we need that visual impact to strengthen and/or prove what is said.
Although nowadays, writing is being replaced more and more with typing, texting and printing - the basic principle still remains; that whatever is in print, holds more punch !
If you think about it, we still depend greatly on “what is written”. Historical facts would be lost had they not been recorded. Great ideas would be forgotten. Stories would lose their detail. Laws could not be followed.
In the Bible, Jesus and the prophets used the phrase “it is written”, before quoting scripture. They relied on the written word to further God’s message of salvation to all of mankind. They knew how important this would be for the rest of us.
“Keep my words, and treasure my commands within you, keep my commands and live, and my law as the apple of your eye, bind them on your fingers, write them on the tablet of your heart.” (Prov. 7:1-3)
Our eternal destiny depends on “what has already been written” -
- and it will be done !
April 7, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged anxiety, Bible, Christian, contentment, counseling, fast, fear, God, hope, joy, laughter, New Life Ministries, peace, praise, purity, thinking, thoughts, truth, worry
Have you ever “fasted” from thinking?
I was given this idea from a radio counseling program (New Life Ministries). One of the counselors on the show mentioned that a “thinking fast” is sometimes a good idea. The question, “how does that work?”, was raised.
Well, of course, you don’t stop thinking entirely – but what you can do is become aware of what you are thinking about and for how long – and to literally stop those thoughts.
My husband and I decided to go on our “thinking fast” a few weeks before Easter. The benefits became quite apparent within the first few days. We caught ourselves thinking about things that created feelings of anxiety, fear, worry, negativity, anger, restlessness, discontent, insecurity…….you get the picture !
Our thought life is tremendously important. What we do, and say, are products of our thoughts – everything begins with “a thought”. We found it was a very good idea to spend time “pulling maintenance” on this area of our lives. As a result - more joy, peace, hope and laughter entered into our daily routine.
“Finally, 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.” (Phil. 4:8)
Captivate your thoughts -
- so your thoughts don’t hold you captive !
April 16, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Ben Hur, Bible, Charlton Heston, Christian, creation, Creator, death, female, freedom, future, God, hope, Jesus Christ, judgement, male, movie, peace, purpose, slavery, truth
In the movie ”Ben Hur”, Charlton Heston is labeled as “forty one” when he was serving a life sentence in slavery as an oarsman. He was to have a number and not a name.
Mistreated, and unfairly judged, the movie epic goes on to show how God intervened in his life to bring him out of slavery, and into a saving relationship with Jesus Christ.
Sometimes in our own lives, we can feel like “just a number” in the vast population that inhabits the earth. Do our lives really matter as an individual, or are we just another inhabitant, doing what we can to survive until it is our turn to die?
If we look to the Bible, we will find that we were not meant to be chained to the oars of a meaningless life. We are not just a “number”, but each one of us is special in the eyes of the Lord.
“For You have formed my inward parts, You have covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made…..Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed, and in Your book they all were written. The days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them.” (Ps. 139: 13-16)
We were created in God’s image (Gen. 1:27) - ”So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him, male and female He created them.”
We have a unique purpose (Jer. 29:11) – “For I know the thoughts I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
God wants us to know “His” truth,
so that we all can be set free !
April 27, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged American Revolutionary War, battle, Christian, courage, evil, God, good, gospel, HMS Prince of Wales, Jesus Christ, minuteman, Satan, soldier, tryanny, tyrant, war, Winston Churchill
The American Revolutionary War made famous the “minuteman” – young men who were ready in a “minute’s” notice to advance the cause of the American Militia.
Young and strong, ready and available – these men greatly aided the militia in the ultimate victory over tyranny. Since then, the minuteman has also become a symbolic term used to describe the courage and dependability of a soldier at war.
Christians are also soldiers at war, involved in the good fight – against the evils of tyranny. Our weapons include truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, the sword of the spirit, and prayer. We are told in 2 Timothy 2:3, “You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.”
Until Christ’s triumphant return, we must stand strong and ready, in a minute’s notice to withstand the evil wiles of Satan. He relentlessly attacks on a daily basis – in our homes, our schools, our workplaces, our churches, our nations…….
Ironically, in 1941, Winston Churchill chose the famous English hymn, “Onward Christian Soldier” to be sung at the church service aboard the battleship “HMS Prince of Wales”. He later said:
“I felt this was no vain presumption, but that we had the right to feel that we were serving a cause for which a trumpet has sounded from on high……..It swept across me that here was the only hope, but also the sure hope of saving the world from measureless degradation.”
So, “onward Christian soldier, marching as to war, with the cross of Jesus, going on before.”
Be a minuteman in Jesus Christ’s militia -
- you will forever be in good company.
May 4, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, comfort, eternity, God, guidelines, Jesus, promise, purpose, righteous, salvation, scripture, solace, souls, tree, tree of life, wisdom
When I was a young girl and feeling emotional, I would go sit by a favorite tree. For a number of years, this tree was a long needle pine tree. I loved to listen to the soothing sound it rendered when the breeze blew through its branches.
Some fifty years later, I still find great solace spending time next to, or under all kinds of trees. The wind blowing through the tress continues to be a favorite, relaxing sound. I even find myself gravitating towards parking next to a tree in a parking lot if there is one available!
When I became a Christian and spent time reading the Bible, it was to my delight to find many scripture references to trees as guidlelines for life.
- A reminder to be righteous:
“He shall be like a tree, planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season. Whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper.” (Ps. 1:3)
- To be a purposeful believer:
“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise.” (Prov. 11:30)
- To seek wisdom:
“She (wisdom) is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, and happy are all who retain her.” (Prov. 3:18)
- God’s promise of eternal life:
“Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city.” (Rev. 22:14)
Now I can see that trees are even more special, not only to me -
but also to God who created them !
May 13, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged behavior, Bible, Christian, distractions, fear, God, Jesus, judgement, language, lies, offend, Pharisees, politically correct, right, safe, speech, truth, words, wrong
What’s wrong with “wrong” ?
I have noticed more and more people seem to be avoiding using the word “wrong”. Instead of saying something is wrong, they say that it is fascinating, or interesting. Why is that?
Are we afraid to “say it like it is” ? Is it safer to use a softer word to distract us from what the focus should be? Are we afraid to offend someone? Is it part of being politically correct?
If a toddler stole an item from a store, should we say that what happened was fascinating? How would he know that what he did was just plain “wrong” ? If a politician lies to his constituents, should we say that his behavior was fascinating or interesting? What about “wrong”?
In the Bible, Jesus called the Pharisees a “brood of vipers”. What if He had said, ” I find the behavior of the Pharisees to be fascinating” ?
Too often we find ourselves being overly concerned about being “judgemental” - thus shying away from the importance of making accurate “judgement calls”.
Evaluating what is right and what is wrong leads us to the doorstep of truth – and the ultimate proclamation of it. We can faithfully follow Jesus Christ through this door – and do it now while there is still time.
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.” (Rev. 3-20)
For when Jesus comes again to this earth - ”judgement calls” will turn into final “judgement” -
- and the door will be closed – forever………..
May 21, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christ, Christian, drink, eternity, everlasting life, God, health, Jesus, living water, Messiah, promise, purity, Samaritan, thirst, water, well, woman
I’m thirsty……!
As a Mom (and Grandma), I have heard that phrase many times. I even say it to myself these days when I get thirsty! Here in America, it’s easy to find a drink of water to quench that thirst – which happens often when living in the great Southwest!
When I was a kid, we just drank water out of the tap. Nowadays, bottled water is the norm – even with assorted flavors. Healthy living is an obsession, and “healthy” water has become big business. Longevity of life is a main focus, dependent on the purity of the water we drink daily.
In the Bible, we read about Jesus stopping at a well to quench His thirst. A Samaritan woman comes to draw water from the well, and Jesus tells her to give Him a drink also. She is surprised that He would talk to her, and as their discussion progresses, she realizes that He is no ordinary man. (Actually – HE – is the most interesting man in the world !)
“Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life. (John 4:13,14)
Wow, no bottled water on earth can give us that promise !
Only Jesus can give us the “longevity” of life we all seek -
- with His “living” water ! (Stay “thirsty” my friend!)
May 28, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, celebration, Christian, eternity, family, farewell, free, freedom, friend, God, Jesus Christ, life, live, salvation, Savior, war
My Dad has decided to throw a “farewell” get together. He has told us he does not think he will live much longer…….
About forty close friends and family members will be coming together to celebrate my Dad’s life, and life in general. We will eat, drink, sing, and share stories. Even though it is a festive event, a degree of sadness has already cast its quiet, flickering embers to the happy glow.
His life is not unlike many others – ups and downs, happy and sad, satisfaction and regrets. His emmigrant passage into the United States after World War II does present a uniqueness to his story though, setting it apart from those of us who were born here in the States.
Having to flee from his native country of Latvia, a decision had to be made as to where to go. He chose the United States because it represented “freedom”. Having lived under the heavy oppression of Communism for many years, and experiencing first hand the agony and brutality of war – the thought of freedom was a powerful and lifegiving medicine.
Jesus Christ is also a powerful and lifegiving medicine:
“I have come so that you may have life and have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10)
HIS truth will bring you eternal life and eternal freedom:
“And you shall know the truth and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:32)
Be “free” in Christ – and say good-bye to ”farewells”………..!
June 8, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged behavior, Bible, breathe, Christian, clothing, dress, fit, fresh air, God, healthy, hemlines, honor, Jesus, lowcut, modesty, respect, styles, stylish, tight, women
What does dressing “modestly” look like in today’s culture?
I spent some time browsing the internet looking for the answer to this question. Different styles from different countries became apparent. Seems that “modest” holds different meanings in different cultures.
Here in America, the way women dress has drastically changed over the years. Hemlines got shorter, tops became lowcut, tighter fit has become the norm. Now, even the men are wearing tighter clothing.
It all seems innocent at first, until you find out that “what we wear” influences behavior, and ultimately society. The more skin a woman shows innapropriately – or the tighter her clothing – the more she “loses” the “healthy” respect she so actively desires. She now has become a “sexual” object, and others will have trouble connecting with her “inner” beauty.
Men have said, “that a girl in a becoming , modest dress is a breath of fresh air, just delightful to be with.” With their visual sensitivity, they are free to look at her and enjoy connecting with her without sexual temptation.
To honor the Lord with the way we dress goes deeper than being stylish.
“that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation………which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works.” (1 Tim. 2: 9-10)
As Christians we have a greater responsiblity to set a godly example to others and to the next generation.
“It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones.” (Luke 17: 2)
Let’s model godly “modesty” and mainstream that “breath of fresh air” -
- everyone would breathe easier !
June 29, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, cabinet, child, childlike, Christian, clutter, container, faith, family, food, God, Jesus, kingdom, kitchen, life, money, organizational, organize, religion, simple, simplicity, time, top, tupperware
Is “tupperware” in your kitchen cabinet? What is “tupperware” ?
Tupperware represents a wide assortment of plastic containers and their tops – usually used for storing food in the fridge. Over the years, the “Tupperware” company has branched out and started manufacturing stainless steel items. They have continually focused on innovative ways to help families save food, time, and money in the home.
Even though these products are organizational aids, they themselves can be an organizational nightmare! In our house, it is always a challenge to store all the various size containers and the corresponding tops in a convenient manner. We are always looking for the “top” ! Over the years, we have brought home different brands of plastic containers and tops – which have now added to the confusion. They don’t fit interchangeably.
Perhaps keeping it “simple” is the answer. Too many brands and sizes bring with them the disorganized clutter we want to avoid in the first place.
Even Jesus talked about “simplicity”:
“Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.”
Mixing up the Christian faith with other religions brings confusion and clutter – they are not interchangeable. We will always be searching for the right “top” that fits.
Simplicity in our faith represents the pure and simple life giving “containers” of life – without the clutter of other religions messing up our “cabinets” -
- and the top will always fit !
July 7, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, faith, God, good, healing, horse, injury, nerves, physical therapy, regeneration, shoulder, sweeney, trust, vet
The vet called him a “wonder horse” !
Our quarterhorse crashed into a very large concrete post. His shoulder took the impact, and thankfully, nothing was broken. Unfortunately, he has developed a “sweeney” shoulder due to his injury. This means that the nerves for his shoulder have been damaged, and the muscles over his shoulder bones have atrophied. Unless the nerves regenerate, he cannot be ridden, due to the instability of his shoulder when he moves. The shoulder joint literally swings outward when weight is applied.
At the veterinary clinic, he responded well to the exams and x-rays, and also to the initial physical therapy. His gentle nature and rather humorous personality became an endearing aspect to everyone working around him. Being a newcomer to all the above, and doing so well through it all, we had to agree that he was somewhat of a “wonder horse”.
Now we have to “wonder” if he will heal from this unforeseen accident. Reports have shown that this could take anywhere from six weeks to a year – or not heal at all. Each horse is different. This was not in “our” plan. He was supposed to be giving more beginner riders a chance to learn about riding and relating to the “wonder” of the horse.
Once again, we’ve had to put our trust in God. The Bible reminds us that God turns unfortunate circumstances into something good. His plan is always more “wonderful” than ours -
even for a “wonder” horse !
July 15, 2010 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, Christian, crisis, faith, fear, God, joy, life changing, peace, Star Trek, threshold, unknown
Are you on the “threshold” of something?
Are you about to step over and out into the unknown? Is a new idea, experience, or crisis placing you on the threshold of a major decision – capable of creating a life changing moment?
The show “Star Trek” comes to mind! It seems they were at this point 24-7! But they were not the only ones – we all approach ”threshold” moments of life on an ongoing basis.
What do we do when we get there? Will the fear factor send us backward, closing the door – will we wonder if we missed something?
Too often, we can miss out on what God has/had planned for us. If we neglect our time with Him, our relationship with Him won’t have a chance to deepen – we may not experience the peace and joy that He has for us.
“For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand. I would rather stand at the threshold in the house of my God, than dwell in the tents of wickedness.” (Psalms 84:10)
“For the Lord God is a sun and shield, the Lord will give grace and glory; no good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.” (Psalm 84:11)
So if you feel you are crossing the threshold “where no man has gone before“
- you really can “go boldly” -
- with God !
July 25, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Adam and Eve, Bible, bondage, Christian, eternity, fall, freedom, God, Heaven, Jesus Christ, Lord, Paradise, salvation, Satan, Savior, sin, spirituality, temptation
I try not to fall – but there are times that I do.
Sometimes it’s a physical fall, and occasionally it hurts. Sometimes it’s a spiritual fall, and it also can hurt. Sometimes the “fall” hurt at first, but then I became stronger because of it.
The Bible talks about the “fall” that we all have in common – the “fall of man” – when Adam and Eve fell to Satan’s temptation. That “fall” hurt all of us ever since. Besides being driven from Paradise, we were then condemned to hard labor – and also to die.
Spiritually - we were separated from God – thus born to sin, to be evil in heart, and to be corrupt and perverse. We were destined to then be spiritually blind, and to be in bondage to sin and Satan.
Who – or what – could save us from the terrible consequences of such a devastating “fall” ? It would seem no-one or nothing……..but Jesus Christ did – and is -
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” (John 3:16-17)
With Jesus as your Lord and Savior -
you can “fall” – but not be “fall-en”!
August 2, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged adventure, Art Linkletter, Bible, Christian, faith, future, God, hope, horse, Jesus, kingdom, Mesannie Wilkins, provision, travel
By what “means” are you traveling through life?
In 1954, Mesannie Wilkins, a sixty three year old woman, decided to travel across the United States riding her horse. She flipped a coin several times in a row to confirm that God was telling her to go – and so she did. From Maine to California, she traveled seven thousand miles by horseback, along with her little dog. She had no money, no family ties and basically no future.
What she did have was a strong and simple faith in her Lord, who was beside her every step of the way. As she completed her journey, her now celebrity status gave way to a celebration of her complete faith in God.
Appearing on the “Art Linkletter Show”, she had the chance to touch people nationwide with her incredible story. At the close of the broadcast, she received a financial bonus – a check was presented to her, which would support her and her animals for many years to come!
Jesus said, “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?………..For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kindgom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Math. 6: 25, 32, 33)
“God” had provided Mesannie (and offers all of us) the ultimate “means” to get through life here on earth – and beyond - into eternity -
”riding high” !
August 10, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged afterlife, Bible, Christian, death, Devil, eternity, God, gospel, Jesus, life, Savior
Our time here on earth is temporary. Each of us will live for a certain time and then die. But then what? Is the end really the end?
Throughout the years, people who have had “near death” experiences have told and recorded their stories. Many recount meetings with departed love ones, described heavenly surroundings too beautiful for description, and conversations with angelic beings – not to mention Jesus Himself. Many have also described visiting hellish places too horrible for the human mind to bear, seeing demonic beings waiting to destroy anyone in their midst.
Apparently, these experiences carry with them a particular message – the existence of an “afterlife” – a place where we actually go when we die.
The Bible continuously refers us to the knowledge of Heaven and Hell – actual afterlife destinations for all of us – no exceptions. We are given ample opportunity to choose for ourselves during our temporary lifetimes where we will go, and how we will get there.
Hell is described as “everlasting” fire, punishment, outer darkness, destruction – prepared for the Devil and his angels, and rejectors of the Gospel.
Heaven is described as “everlasting” bliss, joy, peace, paradise – prepared for those who accept the Gospel.
Jesus said, “I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And where I go you know, and the way you know.” (John 14:2-4)
Choose God’s Way - Jesus and His Gospel-
-and when your “temporary” life ends and your ”eternal” life begins, you will spend it in Heaven - with Him.
August 18, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, false teachers, God, Jesus Christ, prophets, relationship, spirits, truth, welcome, worldview
Welcome home - welcome back – you’re welcome !
A hearty welcome makes you feel good, makes you feel wanted and included. Meeting my husband for lunch one day, five employees of the restaurant stood in a line and exclaimed “welcome” as we walked into the lobby. Even though we had no relationship with them, we actually felt “welcome” – and enjoyed the positive moment.
Sometimes during our lives there are situations in which we are denied access, turned away, left with feeling unwelcome. These are trying times of introspection – we can be left wondering “what happened” ?
Even though we desire to be received, sometimes “not” being received can be a good thing! Throughout history, various cultures have proclaimed their precarious worldviews and instituted their prerequisites for being welcomed into their fold. If your view does not match up with theirs, you are “out”.
The Bible warns us about false teachers in our midst. “Beloved, do not believe every spirit but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” (1 John 4: 1)
“We are of God. He who knows God hears us; he who is not of God does not hear us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.” (1 John 4:6)
Know God and His truth
- and live ”in” - His welcome !
August 28, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, common phrases, complete, cube, divine, entire, geometry, God, Holy Spirit, Jesus, New Testament, Old Testament, solid, third, three
Have you ever heard the phrase – “things happen in three’s” – or, “three times a charm”? These phrases have been around for a long time. Quite often we say them because we’ve heard other people say them, without really knowing where they originated.
Many times, these common phrases have had their start in the Bible. Throughout the Old and New Testament are symbolic references to the number ”three”. Some examples are – faith, hope and love (gifts) – Unleavened Bread, Weeks, Tabernacle (great feasts) – Prophet, Priest, King (Jesus). Other references are -body, soul and spirit – past, present and future – thought, word and deed.
The three dimensional description – height, length and width – can also be found in the Bible. Geometrically, they form a cube, which represents a simple form of something “solid” – that which is real, substantial, entire, complete.
Ironically, the same premise holds true for an important Biblical event- pointing to a state of “divine” completeness - Jesus was resurrected on the “third” day after He was crucified.
Jesus Himself told us that He, and the Father, and the Holy Spirit are one – the complete Godhead – the Trinity – “three” in one………
“Come near to Me, hear this: I have not spoken in secret from the beginning; from the time that it was, I was there, and now the Lord God and His Spirit have sent Me.” (Isa. 48:16)
Biblically speaking - ”three’s” company and NOT a crowd……….!
September 4, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, calf, Christ, Christian, eagle, Ezekiel, God, Jesus, John, lion, Lion of Judah, living creatures, man, ox, Revelation, salvation, symbolic, victory, vision
“Now it came to pass……..that the heavens were opened and I saw visions of God……….also from within it came the likeness of four living creatures….” (Ezekiel 1:1, 5)
In the Bible (book of Ezekiel), Ezekiel’s description of the four living creatures includes their faces resembling the faces of – a lion – an ox - an eagle – and a man.
“I was in the Spirit…………….And in the midst of the throne, and around the throne were four living creatures………” (Revelation 4:2, 6)
In the Bible (book of Revelation), the Apostle John saw in his vision four living creatures. His description of each creature also includes their resemblance to – a lion – a calf – an eagle – and a man.
Although these creatures in each vision were not exactly alike, they did share common descriptions: lion, ox(calf), eagle, man. These descriptions have been referenced as being symbolic of Christ Himself.
The lion refers to the tribe of the “Lion of Judah”, a symbol of strength and power. The calf or ox, refers to the element of sacrifice, Jesus – the “Lamb of God”. The eagle, a symbol of protection referring to Jesus as our protector – and man – referring to Jesus who was human, relating to our humanity.
Ezekiel and John were chosen to receive visions from God, to be recorded for our benefit. The Bible is full of spectacular accounts of visions, miracles, and incredible stories of common men and women like ourselves. These accounts were recorded for us to realize that we are in need of a Savior – and His name is Jesus.
“For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” (John 3:17)
We all have been chosen for a vision from God -
- victorious verification through Jesus !
September 13, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, God, Jesus, memories, memory loss, mental clutter, purity, thinking, thoughts, truth
“I forgot why I came in here!”
Does that phrase sound familiar? Those of us over fifty years old can relate. (By the way, our grandson at three years old exclaimed the same thing one day – what a relief that it isn’t always because of old age!)
Our minds can be busy with all kinds of thoughts, all through the day, and sometimes through the night. Sights, sounds and smells can all trigger spontaneous thoughts to pop into our heads. The question is – what do I do with the thought when it comes?
If we try to hang onto all of our thoughts, we can cause mental clutter to distract us from the clearcut thinking we need to emphasize. Learning to focus on what is worthy to think about requires a constant “check-up”. Some thoughts need to be thrown out and “lost”.
“Finally, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.” (Phil: 4:8)
Losing those meaningless thoughts -
- can lead to “good” memory loss!
September 21, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged anger, barking, Bible, Christian, dogs, evil, frustration, God, good, irresponsible, neighbor, noise, patience, peace, perfect, plan, responsible, stress, temptation, wisdom
Barking dogs !
You know what I mean – the dogs that bark much too long, too often, for no “real” reason, other than to perhaps hear themselves bark !
Our neighbor started a new job, and decided to let her dogs run freely in and out of their home while she is gone. Her dogs immediately run outside and bark like crazy, and then incite other dogs in the area to do the same. The atmosphere becomes chaotic and stressful – especially for those of us who are at home trying to get “our” work done.
I love animals, but allowing our pets to be a nuisance is quite frankly, irresponsible. We have politely asked our neighbor to keep their animals inside when they are not home, but apparently, they have decided they cannot do that. How interesting it is that they cannot stand to hear their own dogs barking when “they” are at home !
Years ago, another neighbor of ours fell into a similar pattern. She chose to let all three of her dogs bark incessantly in and out of the house. Tragically, two of her dogs were poisoned and died. She finally found a different home for the third dog…….
During these “trying times” we can be tempted to take matters into our own hands out of frustration and/or anger – but that may not always be the wisest thing to do.
“Do not say, I will recompense evil; wait for the Lord, and He will save you.” (Proverbs 20:22)
When trying times get too big for our patience and our plan doesn’t fit -
step into God’s plan and patience -
HE always carries the “perfect” size !
September 30, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Arizona, Bible, celebrity, Christian, eternity, famous, God, Heaven, Hell, Jesus, KoKo, Republic Studios, Rex Allen, salvation, singing cowboy, Walt Disney, Willcox
Who’s Rex Allen ?
A friend of mine asked me this question recently. It then occurred to me, that even though we both reside in the Great Southwest of the USA, that not everyone has a handle on the “singing cowboy” genre.
Every year Willox, AZ puts on Rex Allen Days, a celebration of the life and times of Rex Allen, who was born in the Willcox area. The town features a museum filled with Rex Allen memoribilia and other historical sites, including the gravesite and memorial to Rex’s horse KoKo. Rex was featured in nineteen western movies for Republic Studios, and his melodic voice can be heard as the narrator in several Walt Disney nature and film productions.
It surprised me that someone this “famous” was not known by “everyone” ! If I had not told my friend about him, she may never have ever heard of him.
As Christians, we need to remember that not everyone knows about Jesus either. As “famous” as He was - and is - there are those who have never heard of Him.
And Jesus said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to everyone. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.” (Mark 16: 15-16)
Whether someone spends eternity in Heaven or Hell is much too important for anyone to be saying -
“Who’s Jesus?”
October 19, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, change, Christian, circumstances, control, fear, frustration, God, Jesus, organization, organize, perfectionism, plan
When something doesn’t go as planned, it can be frustrating.
Have you ever tried to organize an event and when the day comes, it does not go as planned? Quite often, things just get changed. Unforeseen circumstances can get in the way of that ”perfect plan”.
I have to ask myself the question, “why is a changed plan so frustrating?” Perhaps the answer lies in the frustration. If I am frustrated, then that means I could have put too much emphasis on “control”. Losing control then brings a sense of insecurity in not knowing how everything is going to turn out.
Well, life is just that way. We really don’t know how it all is going to turn out. Every new day brings with it a new set of changes and challenges.
The Bible tells us, “a man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps. (Proverbs 16:9)
If the Lord is directing our steps, then He apparently already knows how things are going to to turn out and how it will all come together.
Giving up “control” to the Lord takes the burden off my shoulders and puts it on the shoulders of the One who can handle it.
Then “frustration” can change to “faith” !
November 4, 2010 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, Christian, commitment, confusion, God, integrity, Jesus, mouth, sincerity
What comes out of your mouth? When you speak, is what you say sincere?
Over the years I have noticed that people will say things that they really don’t mean. Sometimes they have a hidden agenda, sometimes they are trying to be people pleasers, sometimes they make fickle commitments.
It is hard to know if they are sincere, until over time, you can see if their actions line up with their words. There are references to this issue throughout the Bible.
“……for with their mouth they show much love, but their hearts pursue their own gain.” (Ez 33:31)
“Therefore, when I was planning this, did I do it lightly? Or the things I plan do I plan according to the flesh, that there should be Yes, Yes, and No, No? But as God is faithful, our word to you was not Yes and No.” (2 Cor. 1:17-18)
Yes and No coming together bring confusion – a lack of order – insincerity. Integrity can be lost in the process.
In the Book of Psalms, David asked the Lord to “set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.” (Ps. 141:3)
With the Lord in our hearts, HIS guard can keep the door of our lips “open” !
November 10, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged avoider, Christian, decision, delay, eternity, excuses, future, God, Heaven, Hell, Jesus, list, Lord, postpone, procrastination, salvation, Savior, victim
Do it “today” !
Does that phrase sound “too soon” for you ? Do you need time to think about it for awhile? Does tomorrow sound better? – or never ?!
If you are a procrastinator and/or avoider, “today” could be scarey !
Delayed decisions, putting other things first, presuming on tomorrow and postponing service are some of the key manifestations of procrastinating. An abundance of excuses can be made to further rationalize our behavior. Some of these excuses sound so legitimate, we even justify them.
Unfortunately, the consequences of time “running out” do exist. We can become victims of our very own ”procrastinating crimes” - soley responsible for the outcome.
In the spiritual realm, procrastinating can lead to eternal disaster – with no turning back. When we die, our destination is heaven or hell, for eternity. This is a decision that should not be on your “delay list”. Receiving Jesus as your Lord and Savior is what needs to be done “today”………..
so you can be on - HIS list -
for Heaven !
November 19, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, bonus, Christian, expression, fun, God, incentive, interests, Jesus Christ, joy, motivation, pleasure, serve, talents, worhip, work
Work?
I have heard it said that if it’s no fun, than that means it’s “work”. So how can work not be “work”?
Perhaps a new perspective about what work actually represents would be helpful. In the Bible, God tells us how He worked at His “creation” and then took time to rest and “see that it was good”. (Gen. 1:31)
The work that He had done was “good” – and the completion of it brought fullfillment and pleasure. We were created in God’s image, and we too can derive fullfillment and pleasure by our work.
When we find out what type of work matches our God given talents, abilities and interests, work then becomes a gratifying outlet of personal expression. We can then experience fullfillment and pleasure in our work. We can even “look forward” to work!
If we are motivated by our love for God, work can actually turn into a form of worship - to please God.
Colossians 3:23-24 tells us – “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.”
Wow, working for God even includes a special “bonus” ! How’s that for some extra incentive!
Work “can” be fun !
December 3, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged agreement, belief, Bible, choice, Christian, experience, explanation, God, Jesus, logic, Lord, love, loving, pain, Proverbs, right, Savior, trust
Yes – that’s right !
That’s what we say when we agree with something. Our agreement could be based on an experience we’ve had, or a logical explanation which has led us to believe that something is “right”.
Some things are easier to agree on than others. If a cooking oven is set to 400 degrees and you touch your finger on the inside of the oven, we can agree that your finger will get burned. We can say – “yes, that’s right” .
But how did we know that our finger would be burned? At some point in our life, we have touched a very hot item and felt the pain. We then can trust the fact that something which is very hot will burn us.
Of course, it is impossible to experience everything – so we cannot rely just on our own experiences to know if something is “right” or not. We will have to make choices as to what we will believe, and where and who we will put our trust.
In the Book of Proverbs we are told, “he who gives a right answer kisses the lips.” (Prov. 24:26)
Apparently, a “right” answer is a good thing – even loving. Perhaps the God who created us - and loved us so much that He sent His Son Jesus to redeem us - should be our primary source for the “right” answers -
With Him -
we can always say – yes, that’s right!
December 12, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged bad, Bible, blame, blemish, Christian, defect, fault, focus, God, good, habit, Heaven, imperfection, Jesus, lost, perfection, resurrection, Savior
It’s your fault………!
When someone says that to me, it doesn’t feel very good. If it’s true, then it feels even worse. But – if something “good” came out of it, then, maybe it’s not so bad after all!
If fault finding becomes a habit, life can become a long list of negative thoughts – focusing on what’s bad about something – and perhaps forgetting what’s “good” about something. Finding fault can also lead to the “blame game” – who did it, who caused it.
In our imperfect world, it is really quite easy to find faults. Defects surround us. People, situations and circumstances – can all eventually cause disappointment – the inevitable blight on an almost perfect picture.
Re-directing our focus on what’s “good” about something can lead to a healthy acceptance of imperfection – and the intrinsic “value” of it…….
…….for we have all come into this world lost and imperfect, so as to need our Savior – Jesus - who offers us up as perfect to our Heavenly Father – through His death and resurrection on the cross………
With Jesus, faults won’t be found!
December 22, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Christ, Christian, Christmas, decorations, family, focus, food, gifts, God, imperfection, Jesus, joy, life, lights, love, Merry Christmas, stress, truth
MERRY CHRISTMAS !
How about – Merry Christmas “month”?
I have noticed that at the beginning of December the Christmas spirit runs high, but by the time Christmas Day arrives, there are those folks who are ready for it to be “over”!
Perhaps their focus has been more on the temporal pleasures of the season and not on the eternal joy that it represents. Decorations, lights, sweets, parties – are all lots of fun in the beginning, but they do all come to an end. And then what?
Some folks have been stressed out by the pressure of the perfect gift, the perfect meal, the perfect settings. High expectations for the perfect family get togethers strengthen all month – only to be knocked down by imperfect people, and their varied perspectives.
Jesus was born in an imperfect place, surrounded by imperfect people. He came to love us, while we were imperfect – to offer Himself up – as “the Way, the Truth, and the Life”.
If we focus on Christ as the true “meaning of the season”, there will be no “then what’s” after December 25th has passed.
Only a wonderful anticipation of “what’s next?”
December 30, 2010 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Armageddon, Bible, celebration, Christ, Christian, God, Jesus, New Testament, New Year, Old Testament, prophecy, prophet, rapture, second coming, sober, toast
Let’s have a “toast” !
It’s here again, the New Year weekend. The ending and beginning of many things. We take time to remember the past and look forward to the future. Happy and sad are all mixed together into one giant “toast” – shedding some tears, sharing some laughs………..all seasoned with that element of “wondering” what the future will bring.
The Bible’s book of Revelation explains our ultimate future – culminating the prophecies of the Old Testament with their fullfillment in the New Testament. The timing of these future events are only known to God, our heavenly father – even Jesus stated that only God knows the day and the hour of the rapture, the second coming…………..Armageddon.
We’ve celebrated the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ and now raise our glasses to “toast” the New Year – and wonder if this will be the year for Christ’s triumphant return.
Of one thing we are certain – that day will come……….
“…..the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night.” (1 Thes. 5:2)
So “let us watch and be sober” (1 Thes. 5:6)
and ”rejoice always” (1Thes. 5:16)
CHEERS !!
January 7, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged As you wish, Bible, Christian, future, God, hope, Lord, peace, Peter Falk, plan, prayer, Princess Bride, wishes
“As you wish” ……..
In the movie “Princess Bride”, the response – ”as you wish” – is a well remembered line. Peter Falk , who played the endearing grandfather reading his grandson a story, made this line a trademark of the movie.
Wouldn’t it be great if whatever we wished, our life’s response would be - “as you wish” ! Although, as time goes on, we find out sometimes it was good we didn’t get what we wished !
Throughout the Bible, we are cautioned to be careful what we wish. We are instructed to remember in our prayers to God, that our wishes coincide with God’s wishes. Only then, can we be assured that what we wish for would fulfill God’s ideal plan for our lives, and not whimsical ideas that we may have that could change from day to day.
God sees the whole picture of our lives and knows what is best. Our limited view can distort this plan and send us into dangerous territories.
“For I know the thoughts I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jer. 29:11)
I’d rather put my wishes in His hands - and let Him say -
“as you wish”……..!
January 13, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, cold, comfortable, conviction, desire, energy, eternity, faith, God, hot, Jesus, life, lukewarm, middle of the road, Savior, works
Check the thermometer – how hot or cold is it?
As far as climate goes, many of us would like the temperature to hover around seventy five degrees, with average humidity. This would be “comfortable” for most activites – not too hot and not too cold.
In the Bible, we find that God is not happy with this “comfortable” temperature regarding our walk with Him.
“I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew you out of My mouth.” (Rev. 3: 15-16)
A “middle of the road” approach to Christianity lacks the spirit filled conviction and energy to stand for the faith. God is not pleased with a partial surrendering – He wants all of us – because He loves us.
His love for us is “not” lukewarm. He gave His Son Jesus to die for us…………and that could not have happened without God’s “hot” pursuit for all of us to know – and come to Him.
Let our desire be as hot as God’s desire that “none should perish, but have everlasting life.”
Turn up the heat !
January 25, 2011 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, Christian, companion, eternity, faith, faithful, friend, God, horsewoman, Jesus Christ, Marty Robbins, pony, ride, save, Savior, Utah Carol
In the song “Utah Carol”, Marty Robbins mentions Utah’s faithful pony, who helps to save his friend from a herd of stampeding cattle. In the end, Utah sacrificed his own life to save the life of his friend.
As a horsewoman of over forty years, I can well appreciate a “faithful pony”. There is nothing like knowing that the animal you are riding and putting your trust is a faithful friend and companion. One never knows when the time may come that this bond could be put to the test. Close calls do happen when riding, and a faithful pony can get you out of a jam.
Ultimately, life’s jams get too big for just the help of a faithful pony. We need to rely on our most faithful friend, Jesus Christ. With Him, we can ride through any problem and trust that He will take us safely to the “other side”.
Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” (John 3:16)
Ride with Jesus, and get on “God’s side”…….
February 9, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged asthma, Bible, bronchitis, Christian, eternity, garden, God, harvest, health, herbs, medicine, scripture, sinusitis, treatment
Natural herbs provide healthy alternatives to synthetic drugs. Our bodies tend to process them with less harmful side effects.
Over the years, different ailments have motivated me to research herbal medicinal treatments. Sinusitis, bronchitis and allergic asthma have been in the top three. Over time, I have found that natural medicines can actually work better, with “healthy” and not “harmful” side effects. It only seems logical that what God has put here on earth for us to harvest would play an important role in keeping us healthy.
“For the earth which drinks in the rain that often comes upon it and bears herbs useful for those by whom it is cultivated receives blessings from God.” (Heb. 6:7)
Our spiritual health also depends on what God has put here on earth for us to follow. He has provided His Word in the Bible for us to nourish our souls with daily scripture reading. We need to be careful to not be lead astray by “synthetic” doctrines which have been formulated by man’s own ideas. The harmful “side effects” of these doctrines can be deadly – for all eternity.
Let God’s scripture lead you to His “garden” of “eternal” health.
February 15, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, children, Christian, culture, dedicate, divorce, families, God, Hell, instruct, materialism, motivate, motivation, parents, possessions, responsibility, Saviour, stewardship, train
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Prov. 22:6)
Raising children requires more than providing them with food and shelter. God has given parents a role of stewardship – in which each child is dedicated to God. They need to be instructed in the ways of life that will be pleasing to God. They need to create an internal desire in their children to be motivated to do what God wants them to do.
I see out there children who are more motivated by external pleasures and material possessions than what is pleasing to their heavenly father. Parents have given up their God given stewardship to day care centers. Technology has become the “instructor” instead of responsible parents and caring mentors.
Christian families have sold out to the culture and are neglecting the responsibilities of the home. Look around, view the divorce rate and promiscuous behaviors. This is not what God had/has in mind for us – His children. If our God had neglected us, we would all be destined for Hell – without a Savior.
Take training up a child seriously -
- as serious as God has done for us……..
February 27, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged 23rd Psalm, Bible, Christian, contentment, desires, eternity, fulfillment, God, heart, house, Jesus, Lord, mind, peace, Savior, soul, want
“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not “want”…………..(Ps. 23:1)
What do you want? Why do you want? Do you go about your days “in” want? Is something you desire taking over your thoughts and deeds?
Our lives can be filled up with searching for that fulfilling moment, and longing for more of them. We can be motivated by our desires to satisfy our cravings – whether they be material, emotional, physical or spiritual. What is in us that causes these desires? Why do we “want”?
The Lord tells us that “He” is really what we want – that anything else is a cheap substitute. These cheap substitutes will always leave us still wanting. It is a never ending process – but this process could eventually bring us closer and closer to “Him” – our Creator – who put those innate desires in our hearts and in our souls – for us to discover and surrender to “Him”.
When we want Him with all our heart, mind and soul, He promises we will have a peace beyond understanding.
“He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul……….”
We will then “not” want -
because we shall “have”
“………and I will dwell in the house of the Lord……..forever”
March 7, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged anxiety, Bible, Christian, cleanse, Creator, depression, God, heart, mind, positive thinking, pure, scripture, search, think, thoughts, wickedness
“I was just thinking about that!”
It is always startling when someone says something out loud to you that you were just thinking about. It feels as though somehow that person read your mind.
But most of the time, our thoughts are pretty private. We can actively think about things all day long, and even throughout the night. Thankfully, some of our thoughts are never found out, or verbalized. We can find ourselves falling into thought patterns that may not be healthy.
In the Bible we are told that God knows our thoughts. He searches our hearts and our minds.
“…….for the Lord searches all hearts and understands all the intent of the thoughts……” (1 Chr. 28: 9)
We may think that all our thoughts are private, but the One who created us keeps watch over us – with the intent of bringing us to Him.
“O Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my sitting down and my rising up; You understand my thought afar off. (Ps. 139: 1-2)
Holding our thoughts captive and honoring to God come from a daily searching of our hearts – daily time with God and reading His scripture to purify our hearts and minds.
“Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my anxieties; and see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Ps. 139:23-24)
Then verbalizing our thoughts can be “sparkling”
instead of “startling” !
March 11, 2011 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, Christian, communication, error, fallible, God, humility, love, mercy, mistake, peace, pride, problem, resolution, responsibility, wisdom
All of us are “fallible”.
We all make mistakes sooner or later. It is a part of life. How mistakes are handled can be very challenging. Sometimes the parties involved may not even realize they made a mistake until later – or maybe not at all.
When other people are involved, the element of pride can disturb the resolution of our errors. One person may blame the other, and vice versa. Sometimes we need to soul search and come to a place of humility in order to claim responsibility for our actions.
Understanding the situation and the people involved, helps to open the lines of communication. Sometimes the fault can simply lie in the different way the problem is viewed, rather than the problem itself. Ironing out different perspectives can lead to an agreeable solution.
The Bible tells us that God’s perfect wisdom will lead us to resolution:
“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.” (James 3:17)
When we fall to being fallible -
look to the One who is “in-fallible” !
March 21, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, bumps, change, confusion, faith, ideas, management, mismanagement, patience, problems, scripture
It’s easy to say something is “mismanaged”. The hard part is to make it right.
Sometimes a particular problem has not been addressed and the result has been a product of mismanagement. There is confusion, concern and lack of co-ordination. Ultimately, the parties involved can tend to become either very lackadaisical, or try to take matters into their own hands. This can lead to more confusion and a “parting of the ways” for people involved.
Differences of opinions without direction can separate the best of groups, and cohesion is lost. Sometimes a new focus can emerge with a rebound effect with the people involved, and new leadership can be formed. At times, this process can be a blessing in disguise. Old patterns give way to the new, and a sense of revitalization occurs.
Change happens, and let’s face it – life is full of changes. Without some “bumps in the road” the road doesn’t get fixed. New and sometimes better ideas come forth along with new management – until new bumps come along and instigate more new advances - and on and on it goes.
“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” (James 1: 2-3)
So instead of complaining about the “bumps” -
- bring em on !
April 7, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged age, Bible, Christian, experience, God, healing, information, life, mature, mouth, pain, permanent, recovery, reference, wisdom, wisdom teeth
When I was in my early twenties, I had all four wisdom teeth removed. They were impacted, so it was a major procedure. Of course I was anesthetized, so I didn’t have any pain during the operation. It was later, during the recovery period, that I was able to experience the painful after effects. Thanks to the regular dose of painkillers, I was able to groggily spend several days, waiting for my face to go back to its normal shape. Friends told me I looked like a chubby chipmunk.
It seems strange that something that causes such a problem for most people would be called “wisdom teeth”. Apparently, they were named as such because they grow in last, after the other teeth have formed - usually appearing in the late teens to early twenties. Most of the time, there is not enough room in the mouth for them to grow permanently, so removing them provides an alternative.
As in our lives, wisdom does seem to come ”later” – with age – as we mature and accumulate life experiences. Hopefully, we gain wisdom from our experiences, and not just additional data, stored up for future reference. If there is no “room” in our heads for great wisdom, we may end up having a bunch of useless information, not doing us any good.
“The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom…….” (Prov. 10:31)
Let wisdom come out of your mouth – even after your “wisdom” teeth have been removed !
April 15, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, debate, Decision Points, elections, faith, George W. Bush, God, Holy Spirit, Jesus, law, political correctness, politics, president, resurection, theorists
Former President George W. Bush, in a Republican debate, was asked a surprise question: ”What political philosopher or thinker do you most identify with and why?”
He thought about law theorists, Mill or Locke, and also Abe Lincoln. Then he surprised himself as his answer tumbled out: ”Christ, because He changed my heart.”
Thereupon, a stunned silence ensued. Where had that come from? Later, Bush was told by some that his answer shouldn’t “hurt” his campaign too much………apparently not, because he went on to win the state of Iowa.
Critical comments such as “there is something unholy about this” - and – “W. is just checking Jesus’ number, and Jesus is polling well in Iowa” – hit the media. Other, more favorable comments came from many people who appreciated Bush’s openess about his faith.
At times, political correctness would seem like the “right” thing to do. As in Bush’s debate, that is where his original thoughts led him – but – political correctness cannot quench the Holy Spirit.
If Jesus had been politically correct, He would have never gone to the cross – for us -
and “thereupon” lies the strength of our faith.
Praise God !
April 25, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, creation, Creator, earth, evolution, God, Grand Canyon, mankind, markers, power, rocks, theories, trails, universe, weather, world
Spending time at the Grand Canyon in April means experiencing weather temperatures that fluctuate wildly from “tee-shirt” weather to “long underwear/ ski hat” weather.
Although the weather extremes may fluctuate, the scenery maintains its panoramic magnificence regardless of the weather changes. The awesome wonder of it all never loses its incredible appeal and testimony to the majesty of God’s amazing handiwork.
Unfortunately, there are reminders everywhere of mankind’s theories as to how the canyon, and the world in general came into existence. Plaques and trail markers have been strategically placed along the rim trails with the view that the earth and its rocks somehow “evolved” from complex cataclysmic events millions of years ago.
The power behind these world changing events has been explained away from the “original” source – from the “Master Creator” who put the universe together. Although man’s conceptions of how the world was formed may fluctuate over the years, the Bible makes it very clear that God’s description of how the earth was created does not fluctuate – and that it will never fluctuate………..
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” (Gen. 1:1)
Don’t be fooled by “man’s” fluctuating theories -
- stand firm on God’s solid “rock of the ages” !
May 2, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged belief, Bible, Christian, enrich, faith, God, grain, heavy, miller, millstone, offense, stone-grinding, stumble, weak
Millstones come in various patterns and sizes. Many have become collector items and/or subjects of artistic creations. Landscape and patio designs have included these items as focal points, incorporating colored tiles and various stones to accentuate their uniqueness.
Millstones are still in use today, boasting their superiority in producing the best flavor and nutrition through the art of stone-grinding. Apparently, the grinding process using these “stones” brings out the best flavor and texture of the grains.
As a rule, these millstones are quite heavy. Turning them requires proportionate power. Wind and running water were the main power sources used, eventually giving way to the use of electricity.
The Bible makes mention of the heaviness of the millstone:
“But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” (Math. 18:6)
“It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones.” (Luke 17:2)
Apparently, causing those who are weak in the faith to stumble and be led astray is a serious offense……………..
………better to be the “miller” and enrich someone’s faith-
— than to be on the other end………….!
May 11, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, career, Christian, conversation, deed, faith, God, heart, hobby, interest, job, money, read, relationships, religion, talk, thought, topic, word
What is your favorite topic?
Some people love to talk and read about their hobbies. Some prefer discussions about money, jobs and careers. Relationships and the people involved in them dominate other people’s interest.
But religious faith seems to be one of those “avoided” topics. Why is that? Is it because it can create an uncomfortable atmosphere?
Disagreements on topics don’t have to be uncomfortable – we can all agree to disagree. After all, hearing other views can sometimes lead to a different perspective.
But what we spend most of our time doing, thinking or reading can ultimately define who we are.
“For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.” (Prov. 23:11)
The various topics of our lives will be many, and they need to be addressed at some point – but to be out of balance can lead us away from the life that God had intended for us.
“But those things which proceed out the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man.” (Math. 15:18)
What we dwell on in our hearts will eventually show up in our thoughts, words and deeds.
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Math. 6:33)
If we have a heart for God -
- we can touch any topic !
May 20, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged adventure, Bible, Christ, Christian, death, destruction, drama, eternity, gate, God, Heaven, Hell, Jesus, landscape, life, salvation, Savior, westerns, wide open spaces
In many epic western movies, the scenery usually includes “wide” open spaces. We are visually captured by vast rolling hills and a matching “big sky”. Out there “somewhere” lies the adventure along with the landscape to match the unfolding drama ahead.
We are enthralled with the lives of other people on screen – only to be reminded at some point that our own lives are also embellished with the wide open dramatic landscapes of life changing events.
Where will our lives eventually lead? We all share the common denominator of an “ending” to the story. Death awaits us all – but we can choose the path to our destiny……..
“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.” (Math. 7: 13-14)
Jesus reminds us that the field is “wide open” for destruction – we need to choose carefully who and what we believe –
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves.” (Math: 7: 15)
Out there, “somewhere”, is the narrow gate -
let Jesus lead you to it…….
May 27, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged anguish, Bible, calm, Christian, dry, emotions, enemy, God, health, King David, medicine, solution, soothe, strength, tears, throat, trouble, turmoil, virus, weary
A dry throat is common when living in the arid southwest of the United States. Hot temperatures and low humidity add to a scratchy, parched sensation leading to the desire for something to soothe and quench it – usually something liquid, most often – water.
Sometimes a viral attack will bring on the same conditions, and something more than water is needed to alleviate the symptoms. We reach for warm or cool substances to modify and calm the aching and discomfort.
But sometimes a dryness in the throat comes from the aching and discomfort of our heart – when we are overwhelmed with the heaviness of life and become weary, and are spent from the tears we have shed.
“I am weary with my crying; my throat is dry; my eyes fail while I wait for my God.” (Ps: 69:3)
King David of the Bible faced overwhelming circumstances at various times of his life. There were times he was surrounded by enemies, seeking to do him harm, and he was left with no solution other than to reach for God for help.
Our lives bring times of anguish as well – whether we are surrounded by physical enemies, or simply overwhelmed with emotional turmoil. Our shed tears and feelings of helplessness cause us to reach for some solution, and something to soothe the aching in our heart.
“He (God) heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” (Ps. 147:3)
God is “good” – medicine !
June 12, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged advertisements, Bible, Christian, email, Facebook, family, friends, global, gluttony, God, honey, information, mail, overload, people, Proverbs, time management
I fear Facebook !
It seems “everyone” is on Facebook. I am “not”. Is there anyone out there who is “not” on Facebook? I would love to know why you are not -
Here are some comments from well-wishing family members and/or friends:
You would know more about our family if you checked out our facebook page.
There are people from your past who would love to get a hold of you and find out what you are doing.
You would make new friends.
You would network with other people who have the same interests you have.
It’s good advertising for a business.
“Everyone” is on Facebook.
Other comments from family members and/or friends:
I spend a lot of time deleting information I don’t want.
I don’t have enough time to keep up with all my friends.
It takes a lot of my time.
People I don’t know have too much information about me.
Perhaps it can turn into - “too much”. Global mail can become gluttony. Proverbs 25:16 from the Bible cautions us:
“Have you found honey? Eat only as much as you need. Lest you be filled with it and vomit.”
Too much can certainly turn into -
“too bad”
June 20, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, Christian, creation, eternity, finished, God, hope, horse, Jesus Crist, plan, purpose, sanctified, trained
He’s “made”.
In the horse world, the term “made” meant that a horse was finished and trained for his purpose. Most of the time though, made just means that something was brought into being.
So much around us is “made”. If you think about it, just about everything is made. Not only that – but to be made means that someone was responsible for the “making” ! Nothing gets made by itself.
From the very beginning of existence, it was God who “made” our world. We were “made” in His image. Jesus Christ was made in “our” image – to take on the sins of the world – so we could be “made” righteous, and - “become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” (Titus 3:7)
We would therefore become “made” for our purpose in life – to fulfill a destiny that God has had planned before we were even born……..
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you…….” (Jer. 1:5)
To be made for a purpose means we are all significant in the eyes of the Lord – His master plan requires it – until it is “finished” -
and then -
- we’re “made” !!
June 28, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged Bible, change, Christian, co-dependence, freefall, fun, God, habits, lifestyle, security
Try it – you might like it !
How many times have you heard that? Are you one of those people who try new things easily and often? Or are you more like me – cautious – have to think it over – kind of person.
Gripping onto the security of “sameness” can lead to a life of dependence – in the wrong direction……being co-dependent with unhealthy habits. That “sameness” may be just the thing that needs to change- – perhaps for the better.
Loosening that grip on false security may happen with – or without you! If you wait too long – change might happen anyway, and your freefall could end with a bit of a “thud” !
The Bible tells us that God is there to catch us when we fall -
“For He shall give His angels charge over you. To keep you in all your ways. They shall bear you up in their hands. Lest you dash your foot against a stone.” (Ps. 91: 11,12)
So let go – and let God -
Freefalls can be fun !
July 13, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged anguish, Bible, Christian, disciples, distress, Garden of Gethsemane, God, Jesus, power, prayer, sleep, sorrow, support, urgency, watch
“Could you not watch with Me one hour?” (Math. 26: 40)
In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus shared with His chosen disciples His distress and sorrow. His request for them to pray with Him as He poured out His anguish to God, was an urgent plea. Yet, they failed Him, by falling asleep.
How often has someone close to you failed to give you the support you needed during a time of crisis? You’ve poured out your heart to them and thought they understood that your distress was so great that you felt “near death” – just as Jesus had described to Peter, James and John, His closest disciples.
The weakness of our humanity becomes a powerful deterrent to our spiritual nature. Though we want to provide support, we can “fall asleep” , and neglect the importance and power God has given us through His Holy Spirit. We can neglect to use the power of prayer.
When Jesus returns, He expects us to be ready, and not be asleep.
“Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is. ……Watch therefore, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming………lest, coming suddenly, he find you sleeping. And what I say to you, I say to all:
Watch!” (Mark 13: 33-37)
July 21, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged beginnings, Bible, cartoons, Christian, endings, eternity, friends, God, grief, Jesus Christ, joy, laugh, Porky Pig, Savior, strength
“That’s all folks!”
…………then that familiar theme song punctuated the above phrase in our brains…….for some of us – for a lifetime !
Porky Pig with his endearing stutter ended many Looney Tune cartoons by letting us know they were over. It was a lighthearted way to let us know that the fun had come to an end.
If endings could always be happy it would save us from a great deal of heartaches. We could laugh our way through life, and sing along with Porky Pig whenever endings came our way. But the truth is, some endings are terribly sad, and no amount of singing along with Porky Pig can heal the wound in our hearts.
The flip side is that whenever there is an ending, there is usually a new beginning around the corner. Moving forward in the midst of our grieving can bring us to the joy of a new start – and the new found strength we have gained from the whole experience.
Laughing along with Porky Pig and his friends of yesteryear may seem like a silly proposition – but the episodes of his cartoon career were based on humorous adaptations of real life. When it came time for the “final” episode, Porky was done – but we don’t have to be……..we have eternity to look forward to, with our Lord Jesus Christ. And we won’t have to hear——-
“That’s all folks !”
August 1, 2011 · Filed under relationships · Tagged Bible, Christian, Commandments, Ecclesiastes, experience, folly, foolishness, fulfillment, futility, God, Israel, joy, King, life, pleasure, popularity, power, prestige, purpose, reality, relationship, satisfaction, Solomon, soul, vanity, void
“Vanity of vanities,” says the Preacher, “all is vanity.”
In the book of Ecclesiastes we read the great wisdom of Solomon. He describes to us the futile emptiness of trying to be happy apart from God. Solomon was the richest, wisest, most influential king in Israel’s history. His life gave him the qualified experience he needed to impart his “reality” wisdom to the rest of us.
Pursuing power, popularity, prestige and pleasure – in the end, doesn’t fill the void inside our souls. The endless and meaningless cycles of life found throughout history validate the futile attempts we, as human beings, strive to create for fulfillment and satisfaction.
Solomon realized that only a relationship with God can bring true purpose and pleasure to our lives. “Eat, drink, rejoice, do good, live joyfully, fear God, keep His commandments!”
Our lives don’t have to be futile – “For God will bring every work into judgment.” (Ecc. 14: 1)
Folly and foolishness follow futility -
- forsake them -
- and follow God !
August 9, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged adventure, basis, Bible, books, broadcasting, Christian, communication, God, influence, instruction, internet, investigation, media, newspapers, source, truth
Media is “major” !
What form of media we choose to gravitate towards can sway from day to day. Whether it be the written word, audio broadcasting or visual experiences on screen – we are surrounded by media on a daily basis.
Media is a powerful medium of influence. If we hear, read and experience something often enough, we can tend to believe it to be true. The original source of any communications is therefore worthy of investigation.
Although the investigation process can be a tedious trail – the end of this trail can open us up to entirely new vistas. New territories of truth – waiting to be explored. And even though popular mainstream media presents us with overflowing torrential tides of information, we can still wash it away to uncover the underlying currents of another kind of media – that which honors God.
Exploring what God has to offer surpasses any man made adventures. After all, God is the master “adventurer”. He wrote the book about it – the Bible. The “basis” of all media – the “beginning” – and – also the coming “end”………..
- make it “your” source !
August 23, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged atrophy, Bible, Christian, God, healing, horse, injury, muscle, patience, pray, prayer, recovery, shoulder, sports injury, sweeney shoulder, wait
It’s a “comeback” story……
Traveler, our twelve year old quarter horse gelding has come back from a debilitating injury – sweeney shoulder. He had run into a concrete post a little over a year ago – and has since made the slow but sure progress back to recovery.
All the muscle along his left shoulder and across half his chest had atrophied. When he walked his shoulder would roll outward and his body would roll and dip downwards with a distinctive abnormal motion. It was a very sad and painful sight to see………..also knowing that the possibility existed that he might not recover added to our distressed concerns about his welfare.
Each month passed with a small but encouraging bit of progress. His muscles returned ever so slowly, an inch at a time. Appropriate exercise, nutrition, herbs, light treatments and massages – all contributed to his rehabilitation.
There were times during this year long process that doubts arose as to whether he would be the same again – our prayers for healing were sent up to God over and over………and we wondered how God would answer our prayers.
Thankfully, we never gave up during Traveler’s road to recovery. It was slow, but it was worth the wait. God allowed Traveler to “come back” and to be an inspiration to others to not give up -
- God made sure our wait wasn’t wasted !
August 31, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged battle, Bible, Christian, fight, free will, Garden of Gethsemane, God, ingratitude, Jesus, Lord's Prayer, peace, pride, selfishness, tantrum, war, will
Tantrums happen !
Raising kids will initiate you to the world of “tantrums”. Some of these explosions of emotions can take you by complete surprise. As in any wartime planning, being taken by surprise can be disastrous……..like stepping on a land mine !
The war of the wills is nothing to be flippant about or to be taken lightly. Who gets their “way” – and how they get their way – can lead to disturbances throughout a lifetime. The outcomes of these “battles” can have far reaching effects.
When there is confusion of “whose” will should be done, relationships can suffer. Attitudes can be tainted by selfishness and ingratitude. Pride can prevail.
In the Lord’s Prayer, we are told that “thy” will be done – God’s will……not my will or your will – but God’s will. Lining ourselves up with that concept disarms the war of the wills – and brings peace.
Jesus best exemplified surrendering to God’s will in the Garden of Gethsemane when He asked for the cup to pass from Him…….”nevertheless not My will, but Yours be done.” (Luke 22:42)
Our battle is a fight against our free will to have our own way -
and in this case – it is braver to surrender – to Him…..!
September 11, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged baking, Bible, bread, calories, Christ, Christian, cooking, eternity, food, God, grandmother, Jesus, kitchen, passion, plump, spirituality, thin
Eat ! …………my grandmother would say to me………. you’re too thin !
My grandmother was “not” thin. She was a jolly, plump grandmother. She seemed to be always smiling, sitting in the kitchen, mixing something. The aroma in the kitchen led to good food …….the kind of food “not” found in diet magazines ! She never seemed to care about that – or the fact that all that wonderful food had found a permanent spot on her round body…… but she sure seemed happy !
I never wanted to be plump, although I did want to be happy. Food had begun to take on a “two edge sword” of sorts……….it was good – good for you – but then again, too much would be bad – and bad for you. There were “good” foods and “bad” foods.
Now, I am a grandmother……..I’m not plump, and frankly, I don’t spend much time in the kitchen. Cooking, baking – never became my passions – I suppose at some point, the fear of being plump, drove me out of the kitchen ! I had decided that I needed to pursue other interests which did not include the danger of excess calories !
Thankfully, one of those interests was my passion for “spiritual” food – which led me to the cross of Jesus Christ. “I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever………” (John 6: 51)
At the cross of Christ, you will find the true “bread” of life – in Him, exists eternal happiness -
- without the calories !
September 23, 2011 · Filed under thoughts · Tagged ability, Bible, Christ, Christian, church, desire, focus, friend, gift, God, help, joy, ministry, neighborhood, purpose, serve, simplicity, spiritual gift, talent, teaching, understanding, work
What is your spiritual gift?
Finding out our spiritual gift is an important part of our walk with the Lord in the Christian faith. God has created us for His purpose, and He has wired us with specific talents to be used within the body of Christ.
Usually these talents coincide with general abilities which we may have already begun to cultivate. If we have the gift of teaching, we may have already been drawn to teaching opportunities throughout our lives. With the gift of helps, we may have already shown and acted upon a deep desire to help others in various ways.
Discovering who we are in the body of Christ leads us to a better understanding and awareness of how we can best serve the Lord and bring Him glory. Whether it be at church, in our neighborhood, at the workplace or a chance meeting with a friend – our gift can be used with great measure – and bring great joy to the Lord who provided us with that gift.
Finding out how God has enabled us to serve Him also prevents us from pursuing ministry outside our realm of talents – which helps us to maintain an orderly focus and simplicity for our life.
Finding out our spiritual gift -
—— “is” a gift !
