Just some thoughts from the parking lot

How many times have you gone to the grocery and had to "fill her up"?
This mornings trip to Walmart was one of those times.
With preparations for this weekend I had a lot to get. We all know how manageable a buggy is once it is loaded. So as I moved toward my truck, I was having a tad of a problem navigating.
As I got ready to turn down my aisle I noticed another truck waiting to see which way I would turn. I felt like for one that I should have had a little power steering(it would have been extremely helpful) and two it would have been nice to have had some blinkers so that I could have let the kind man know which way I was going. My Mom raised a polite girl. Thanks Mom.
(So if in the future you see grocery buggies with turning signals-remember you heard it here first.)
Anyway, I think it is important as Christian to be polite. When I drive I use my blinkers so that people know where I am going and I don't aggravate them when I slow down and turn.
I thought it would have been pretty funny if I had used hand signals for turning in the parking lot--I do think the man would have thought I had lost my mind.

But then I started thinking about what kind of signals or lack of signals I give to people in everyday life. Do I leave them constantly wondering how I will react to situations.
Do they know that when they come to me with a problem
I am going to turn them right direction.
With God I know that I don't have to worry about what things He is going to do and the way He is going to react. He is true to His word and He is not in a good mood one day and bad the next.

I wonder if my children and husband feel safe in knowing what to expect of me.
I have grown in my relationship with God. What used to set me off does not always now and in some areas I know I have to run to the Lord when they show up.
I hope that there is a constant growth toward becoming Godly.
I think God would say He was pleased with my heart.
And although I know we never take God by surprise with our reactions--I would say I don't amaze Him with the wrong choices I make near as often.

So I guess I could say, I try to live at peace with others as much as is possible with me.
I want others to know that they can safely trust our friendship.
I will respond in love.
And on the occasion that the "old man" rises from the dead and they see her instead of Christ--I promise to get it right as soon as possible.
Then I know I am heading in the right direction with God and with others.

If my life is too loaded with junk--just like that buggy--it will be hard for me to maneuver.
I will be slower to respond to the lead of the Spirit and in the process I may run over one
person and aggravate another.

Dear God, may my life glorify you.

Thankful Thursday

Good day to you!
Here we are again--and so soon.
The weeks are flying by and I hope that He is finding me faithful with the times He is giving.



I am so thankful today for His mercy.
Such love that touches even down to the very deepest part of me. I am so undeserving and yet He wants His love to wrap me up and cover my neediness.
He not only covers it-- but it actually disappears beneath His righteousness.
Nobody likes a needy person--they tend to sap you of your energy.
So I am thankful that God was not afraid to take on my need.
And you know what--I am not the same.
His love fills till we want no more.
Thank you Jesus.

I am thankful for blogging sisters who are willing to pound on the gates of heaven with me. Maybe that is not the best word picture to give since as His children we are free to go boldly before the throne. Let me rephrase that. I am thankful for women who are willing to go with me before the throne and lift needs to the One who loves completely.
He saw our hearts joined as one and He answered our prayers.
Thank you Jesus!

This is a statement of faith.
I am thankful that when I go to the orthodontist tomorrow morning they are going to tell me that my braces will be ready to come off this next month. It has been 18 months now. And although I have enjoyed pretending I am a tween with all this metal in my mouth--ENOUGH!
Time to grow up. :)
I guess I'll have to share with the Orthodontists that she needs
to walk by faith with me
and not by sight.
And if you will stand with me in faith here--my husband will also be really happy.
Love you guys!
*****update.....braces will come off in 5 weeks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
For more women sharing a sweet savor before the Lord go and visit Iris over at Sting My Heart.
Give her a shout out and tell her how thankful you are for her getting us all together.

Update post on the last two posts

First---Thank you so much for your prayers for my close friend Tracy.
She is still in the hospital but should go home tomorrow.
The doctors still do not know what is wrong with her.
She so appreciates all of your prayers and I did too.
You are sweet and I thank God for the sweet addition of you to my life.
You fill my heart!
If I find out anything else I'll let you know.


As for our house condition.
As you know our property is on the water. And since at least once a year the river likes to come inside--new homes in our area have to be built up on piers.
Some of ya'll who have been with me since I have started know that we had some major difficulties with an artesian well that we could not cap. It took several months and much emotional pain and stress--and still no solution. Keith did finally get a pipe into what we think is the well and the water has been stopped.
We lived in a camper for 6 months while trying our best to get things moving.
Can you say lack of peace?
This was my life for several months. Then in May it became evident that we needed to take over the care of Keith's 92 year old father. God provided a house down the road from our property and we all moved in. Our property is still sitting and we are going to sell it.
There is no way Paw Paw could handle the stairs and he so loves to go out and walk through the yard several times a day.
After Katrina prices on property went sky high. Does not make sense to me--but it seems to happen after disasters. The prices should drop soon.
Meanwhile we know that we have a certain amount to spend on a house.
I know my God is able.
As soon as we get the property sold we will take that money and put it toward a house.
We don't need anything fancy just enough room for us all with a little property.
God's hand will have to be all over this situation.
He will be the one to provide the house.
Prayers will be appreciated!
Prayer that when my faith is tested--- it will be found true and sound and firm.
This was from my devotion this morning.

"Can you trust Jesus Christ where your common sense cannot trust Him? Can you venture out with courage on the words of Jesus Christ, while the realities of your commonsense life continue to shout, "It's a Lie"?..................................Believe steadfastly on Him and everything that challenges you will strengthen your faith."
Oswald Chambers


My God is bigger than the storm and He is capable when man says NO WAY.
If I look for the small, satan will make sure I find it.
If I expect the big---God will provide it.
I love my God.
He was able to save my soul from hell and build me a mansion in heaven.
I know He can handle a roof over my head while I linger here.
My requests;
two bathrooms, a fireplace(never have had one and I always have wanted one), a nice size kitchen so that I can have guests in there while I am cooking, it would be nice if the kitchen was open to the living room.
Keith would like a little property.

Let's see how our God shows Himself faithful and if He wants to show off a little-----I'll clap and jump up and down. :) After I praise His name of course.
................

Katrina Revisted--two years out

Some one asked me to tell them about Katrina. These are my memories of that time. These are pictures of my house and yard. God is good.

----------------------

We lived on the river and had since we had gotten married 17 years ago at the time. The property and house usually flooded at least once a year. We had gotten used to this and the clean up process.
When we heard about the storm we packed up like we normally did for a hurricane. I put the photos in the van and packed enough clothes for a couple of days.
Our pastor invited us to come and stay with them. I can't say I was nervous-actually it was a little fun to be getting away.
Most of the storm was during the day so we could watch it. We had two generators so once the electricity went out we were still able to watch the news because they had satellite. Amazingly it only went out for a short period.
About noon the wind got really bad--trees coming down everywhere. The biggest were further from the house. You could not have spanned some of those trees with the arms of one person.
One tree right by the house came down some time that morning. God laid it down right next to the house.
Keith and I went and took a nap during the heat of the storm.
Probably around 3:00 the storm was over. We went outside and things did not seem too bad. That was until we got beyond the trees around the house and saw the damage all around us. We could not even get out with vehicles because the trees were down everywhere of course your noticed the ones most on the roads. Being from the country chainsaws were on hand and so the work began. I would say it took at least a day to cut ourselves out.
Meanwhile we were able to get the TV going by way of generators. We began to hear the horror stories that were developing. We heard of the water that was flowing into New Orleans. Part of that area was where I grew up.
It still did not seem real because we had not been out to see it with our own eyes.
We were not able to get to our house in Covington for two days.
Because the phones were down and cell phones did not work none of us could check on our families. My mom and dad had stayed with my sister and her family not even 20 minutes away but I could not find out if they were o.k. Keith's sister lived in New Orleans and although we knew she had left we did not know where she was and there was no way to find her.
It was really an unreal situation. I woke up the next day and I guess we really thought that in a day or two we would be back to normal. That did not happen. We finally got through the trees and were able to get to Folsom to check on my Mom and sister. They were fine. Now you have to remember this happened in August and think about the heat and no electricity, no running water for showers. Yuck.
We did go to the gravel pit and take a bath. It is amazing what becomes fine when you have nothing else.
Our house was over 45 minutes away from our pastor’s house. Curfews were in place. There was drama going on everywhere.
You could not get gas--no electricity--no gas.
We gathered up as many gas cans as we could find and planned to make a trip as far as we needed to, to find gas and try to use our cell phones. I have family in TN and N.C--Keith had a brother also in N.C--we needed to let them know we were O.K. Also Keith had not had any contact with his Dad. And his Dad lived in the same town as our pastor. Although we were probably only fifteen minutes apart it seemed as if we were in a world of our own without phones.
We made a trip by our house. When we got to our subdivision we could not get all the way to our house. There were trees crossing the road everywhere. You could here the sound of chainsaws and you knew eventually the roads would be cleared.
When we got to our house the water was still up. We had 4 feet in the house with Katrina. I could see that the house had taken two huge pine trees and we had lost just a few in the yard. One was a huge oak in the driveway. It was just like the wind had severed the root bed and laid it over. Pine trees were twisted off mid way and leaning against or on where ever the fell. We walked through the water and opened the front door.
I will probably never forget that first view. Our house was an old two story wooden structure. The tree had come in the corner of the house. I will try and find the pictures.
When I opened the door and look up the stairs--I saw the sky.
Now this was really not so bad. Once the tree was cut and removed we put a piece of plywood up and heavy duty plastic and we lived with it that way for over a year. We had no insurance because the house was so old. Other details fall into the reason for no insurance--one being 911 and the fact that they stopped writing new insurance polices.
Now I say the trees was not so bad except the corner of the house that the tree landed on was the corner with my china cabinet.
I lost all the family antiques that were china.
When I realized that-- I cried for the first time. It would not be the last.
It was not that I was that tied to those things---but they were memories. Memories of Keith’s Mom who had passed away. Memories of traditions and stories that would not be passed to the children. They were of some value but mostly just memories.
We left the house and went on to find gas, water and groceries.
The nearest place with electricity and gas was Baton Rouge a little over and hour away . Lines were horrible.
We talked to one guy at the pump that was from Mississippi--he had lost everything.
We were all so numb and yet at the same time our emotions were all riding so near the surface. It was really like it was just a horrible dream.
This was the first of many trips that we would make to Baton Rouge for gas and food.
Our stores and gas stations would not open for several weeks.
Our electricity poles and lines were a jumbled mess.
I can remember working in the yard hauling our trees to the road so that they would be hauled off and seeing electric trucks from other states working in our neighborhood. You just wanted to run out and hug them.
We were out of electricity for about three weeks--maybe four. We were fortunate because we had two generators to run our window air conditioners and refrigerator. Basically I could run what ever I needed-- just not all at the same time. We opened our house to our friends without electricity and water to come and bathe.
We had church at our church without electricity. We would put the folding chairs outside and we had church. Sometimes we would bring the generators and hook it up to the air conditioner in the back kitchen area. People were there for every service we had.
After awhile what had been abnormal became a normal way of life. Phone service came back with in a month--service was off and on. Cable did not come back on till after Thanksgiving.
For months stores would only be open until about 6:00 because of curfews and lack of supplies. It would be nothing to be in line with all your groceries and have the electricity go off and have to wait for 30 minutes for it to come back on so you could check out. It made me think of what it would be like during the end times. We have no idea how much how much we depend on computers that have to have electricity to run.
I don’t think anyone could have come out of that time unchanged.
Now on this side of it --it seems like there was no way we could have lived through it.

We tore our house down last December.
So many memories.

Please help!

********
Update
I got a call at about 7:15 our time from Tracy's husband.
He said that the dye test show no sign of a blood clot.
He said the situation scared him to death. I had the opportunity to tell him that maybe Tracy did need prayers and we don't know that maybe the prayers were the reason there were no blood clots found. He said, maybe you are right I just know it scared the mess out of me.

I believe a healing took place.
How awesome that as we prayed there were many here and there on their knees praying for my girl.
The doctors still do not know what is causing the extreme pain and they are going to run some more tests. Keep praying please.








One of my dear friends needs your prayers immediately.
Tracy has her gal bladder removed this past Friday and has been in extreme pain since Saturday.
I got a call from her husband about 20 minutes ago and she is in the emergency room. They think she may have a pulmonary embolism. A blood clot or a blockage.

She is a piece of my heart.
I am pleading with those of ya'll who believe in prayer that you go boldly before the throne
and pray for her.
Thank God for the wisdom He is going to give the doctors.
Thank Him for the healing that is taking place.
Thank Him for hwo He is going to use this to bring her husband in humble adoration before the throne.
Thank Him for her blood that is pure and running smoothly through healthy veins.
Thank Him for the doctors who will see the glory of God because my girl was willing to be used by Him in any way He chose.
And then pray what the Spirit of the living God brings to mind and heart.

Thank you sisters!
I will let you know as soon as I get the word that she is fine.

She had her husband call me and tell me--Tracy said to call you and tell you that you know what to do. He did not know what we were talking about. She believes in the power of prayer. Thank God he delivered the message.
She is a believer.
Stand in the gap for her.

The Skin You're in

I wrote this several years ago after a morning service. I had been experiencing a time of frustration and I didn't know where it was coming from. Sometimes our discontent or lack of peace is caused by sin or not listen when God is talking. But when you have gone to the Lord and checked these things out and the frustration remains--then it will do you and I both good to remember that we are on SOMEONE'S hate list. He will use whatever tools he can to put us on edge. And he has learned that usually instead of recognizing that he is the one after us we think it is another person, our hormones or God. How he must laugh.

If you are going through something like this now or know someone who is. Encourage them to call out to God. He is listening and He wants to fight for you. Hand the battle over to Him and then it will be your turn to laugh.

She was irritated and angry.
Her skin felt as though it were too tight for her body.
The gentle breeze felt like giant shoves to her overly sensitive skin.
How she hated feeling this way.
She had nearly bitten the head off her child that morning, and given the chance
she would have gladly done the same to her husband.
What was wrong with her?
Nothing........that she could think of.
Maybe that’s what was wrong - everything was going the way it should,
but she felt more agitated everyday.
It got to the point, even a new trinket could not raise her spirits.
And now it was Sunday morning, and she was supposed to be wearing that holy glow.
Yeah right!
She felt like getting in the ring with someone and sharing a little of her inner glow.
She was exhausted.
Approaching the church she quietly slunk in the back door.
Should someone approached her-she was prepared to be busy about something.
She had to get herself straight, or she might as well have stayed home.

Going to her knees in her heart---this is what heaven heard:

Dear God, HELP!
Get ME out of here!
I can’t stand feeling this way.
Change me, forgive me, open my heart to hear Your voice.
Set me free!
Please God, I need You.


And this was heaven’s reply:

Peace
My peace I give to you

My peace I leave with you.
Be at peace.


The heaviness that they had placed on her
slid from her head and then from her shoulders to the floor.
She took a deep breath and with its release
She was overwhelmed by peace,
Sweet peace.

Need something?

Have you ever felt so thirsty or dehydrated
that you wished you could take the plunge into a huge pool and just soak it in?

The other day I was cleaning the pool and it was soooooooooo hot.
I thought how great would it be just to fall into the cool water
and feel it lift the temperature of my body.
I finished the job and then I fulfilled the wish for a little coolness.
I got out feeling refreshed and so thankful for the clean pool.

There are many times in my walk with the Lord that the way gets rough
and spiritual warfare heats up.
I find myself looking for a place to run--a place with a little quietness
with plenty of time of for refreshing and refueling.
A place where I am accepted, loved and comforted.
I don't have to hope for it.
Dig up enough money to purchase it.
Bribe God to share it.
It is already mine--- because of the promises of the God to whom I belong.

Matthew 5:6-- Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

Do you long for something that you can't put your finger on?
Maybe you are longing for what only God can give you.
That endless nagging feeling inside may only be stilled
by the loving finger of the creator of this universe.
What can it hurt?
If we search for Him and call out to Him--He promises us......... He will be found.
Go ahead--what are you waiting for?
Take the plunge!
He will be all you have ever longed for.

Refueled and Refreshed

Want to know what I did Saturday?
Yes, I know you are dying to know--hold on I'm going to tell you.
See the above picture--yes, I know the date is way off--but it is where I was yesterday. Just didn't pull out the camera because I was swim fishin. Yep, that is right, swim fishing. No, I was not swimming around trying to catch them. That would have been a sight to see. It was so hot that we jumped right in and while we swam--we fished. Did we pull them in right and left--nope. Did we get a bite? Nope. Did I have fun? You had better believe it.
My sister in law came over and spent the weekend with Paw Paw at the house-- so I got a little me time. Friday night I had a date with my man. Went to a movie.
Then Saturday I got up and grabbed my bathing suit and pole and headed off to spend some time with one of my girls. IT WAS SO RELAXING! I was glorying in my God. Then my pastor offered to cook for us! It really touched my heart. No, the meal below is not what he fixed. :)

Instead of him cooking, we gave the kids sandwiches and we had a double date! Now, I have been watching what I have been eating for the last 3 weeks. Think maybe I stepped a little off my diet last night? Yep!It was reeally good! I don't normally eat fried food--but I did last night. Shrimp, oysters, catfish, and sorry girls fried livers and I can't leave out the seafood gumbo. YUM!

The picture above is of my pastor on the left and the other bright one is my hubby. Weren't they sweet to pose for ya'll. I told them I needed some recent field trip pictures.
Next, is me and Linda. Yes, I am looking a little rough--but in the country it is come as you are. So, no one even noticed--I hope. I am sporting my glasses because I had to put my new contacts to the side because of a little virus in both eyes. It is getting better, but I miss my contacts. And the bandanna is because after a day swimming---my hair needed a little containing. :)
But at least my girl was looking sweet.

Today I got to have a little more fun. Sorry, I forgot my camera. Wednesday was my baby sisters 35 birthday-- so Mom and I took her out for a little fun after church. Out to eat again.
I'll be paying for it tomorrow on the scale. :(
We went to a steak house and then went to see the new Mr. Bean movie.
The food was good. :)
I'm sorry, it did have it's funny points. Sometimes it was just laughing at how stupid it was.
I can use the "s" word because I shouldn't have any under age readers.
We had a good time and now it is time to get back to reality.
Thank you Tim and Linda--I soooooo needed our time.
And I enjoyed the fellowship even more than the food.
And as you all know--the food was great.
I love you guys and I thank God for giving me you both.........as a gift.

Lessons

Karen has tagged me for her Meme "5 things you want your children to know" Here are the Meme instructions:

"I've been thinking lots about the things that I want my kids to know before "they grow up" and thought this is a good thing to meme on...

So the meme challenge is...

Those tagged will share 5 Things You Want Your Kids To Know "Before They Grow Up"

Those tagged will tag 5 people.

Those tagged will leave a link to their meme in the comments section of Claire's post so everyone can keep track of what's being posted.

So let the sharing of wisdom and tagging begin!

PS you DONT have to have kids to do this... "

OK so now for my 5:

1. First I want them to know God is real. Now if you are a Christian you might be tempted to say---duuuuh. But think about it----what does it take deep in your soul to know that you know--HE'S REAL? An intimate encounter. I was an adult before I had my first encounter. It changed my walk. I want them to KNOW God. Intimately.

2. I want them to know that the Bible is not just a book. I want them to know and understand that it is a letter written to them by God before they were born. I want them to know that it will change them and that just when they think they know what it means it will turn around and blow their minds with some new deeper meaning.

3. I want them to know that there is nothing they can do or not do to........ make God love them more. He can not love them any more than He does at their worst.

4. I want them to really know God does not make ugly.

5. I want them to know that this is not all there is. And that even when the world tries to convince them that they have to have it all to be anything--God says they were worth His life when they were nothing and had nothing.


Girls you know I don't usually tag people--but if you would like to participate in this tag make sure you go over to Claire's and let her know.
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Stay seated!

Good Morning!

Thanks for stopping by--it is always nice to have visitors!
If you were here we could sit on the couch and talk awhile about what God is teaching you and what He is teaching me. We could spend some time in prayer and then glory in the power of God that flows down from the heavenlies as we praise Him.
That would be so great. When we listen to others and hear what God is doing in them--- it lifts us up. We feel the fire of the Spirit in them and it pumps up our faith.

The other day I heard someone say something that I already knew but it struck something in me-sparked a certain longing in me.
They said, God sits in the heavens and He has no worries, no concerns, no anxieties.
In other words He is not sitting up there wondering how in the world He is going to work it all out. He does not wonder if He is going to have enough of this or that to get through the day, the week, the month. Matter of fact He looks down on all that is going on in us, and around us all over the world and it does not raise His blood pressure even one point.

This morning the phone rang and I felt my stress level start to go up. Keith had taken Paw Paw to visit Granny--so I had the house all to myself. Sitting on the couch with my Bible and devotional book I was ready for some peaceful time with God.
I took the phone call and planned to start my time after that.
The phone call was not nice. Not ugly--just not peace producing.

After I got off the phone, I could feel the stress level. I began to tell God how much I needed Him. How it would be so cool to be away from here just sitting with Him in the heavenlies.
I could just sit next to Him and Jesus and we could sit up there and watch what was going on down here and I would just let Him deal with it.
Do you know where I am going?
Next comes the voice of the Holy Spirit and this is the conversation we had.
.................................
Hellloooooo, wake up Sharon, you are already there.
What?(me)
Yes, you are already there in heaven with them.
Remember that verse that says you are already seated with Christ in the heavens because of the work He did on the cross?(H.S)
Your right(duh)I think it is in Ephesians.(me)
flip, flip, flip-me turning to Ephesians
Here it is,
Ephesians 2:6--"And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus,(that means read on) 7. in order that in the coming ages He might show the incomparable riches of His grace, expressed in His kindness to us in Christ Jesus."

O.k, I get it. If I remain where I should be--seated with Christ in heaven---then I will view this world through my heavenly perspective. Cool. No worries! That's great.(at this point I have to tell you that the presences of God and His peace were pretty strong)(me)

After this I just spent some time loven on God.
And He did some loven back. :)

The book that we have--it's living. If you have the Spirit of the living God living in you---He will bring all things to remembrance. We have got to take some time to play in and drink in the living water.
Then..... the Holy Spirit will fill us up and there will not be room for this world to push it's way in and push out the peace of God.

Want to stay seated in the heavens with God?
Stay seated next to Him.
Have you ever thought that every time we stand up, we actually raise ourselves above Him.
He sits on His throne--period.
Now I am talking spiritually of course.
When we rise to deal with life we are in fact saying---God I'll have to handle this.
Then we leave the throne room and of course our eyes are no longer on Him. So scripture says, He will no longer be able to keep us in perfect peace because our eyes on not stayed on Him.
Make sense?

It was a good morning with God. Great truths.

What has He been sharing with you?

Thankful Thursday!!!!!!!

Good morning!
It is a beautiful day because God made it just for us!
I pray you are feeling loved today. I had a friend who is now walking on gold streets and he used to ask people if anyone had told them yet that day that they were loved.
So I will ask you.
Has anyone told you today that you are loved?
You are.
The one who breathed the very breath of life into you--HE LOVES YOU DEARLY!
He watches over you jealously. And He wants you to know it.
And because He loves me--I can tell you--I LOVE YOU!

So do you know what I am thankful for?
God's love!
I am thankful that Wednesday night at church we are studying the book of John. And while reading tonight--something hit my pastor. There is a verse that says Jesus wants us to be with Him. As Christians we say often--I know. But do you know what that means? He longs for us and He is missing having us right there with Him. That is a neat thought. Kind of like when family goes away and we can't wait for them to get back home.
Neat don't ya think?

I am also thankful for the reminder from one of my blogging friends that sometimes God shows up in the stillness not the whirlwind. So this week in the quiet of my Bible time--He has shown up loud and clear. How could I not be thankful that the God of the Universe stepped down to speak to little ole me?

I am thankful for my laptop.
It was a very special gift because it gave me a lot of new friends. ;)

I am thankful that when I have a problem and I go to God and ask Him to fix it--He jumps on it with both feet. He wants unity within His body and when that is our desire too--watch out-- there is going to be a lot of lovin going on!

For more thankful stories go visit our faithful leader at Sting My Heart.
Ya just got to love Iris!

Is the bottom visible?

Usually every other day I find myself out cleaning the pool. It is not a bad job and it does not take too long. Yesterday was a little gross because when I pulled out the basket for the filter. I was greeted by a tiny drowned mouse. Poor thing but YUCK! It was necessary for me to immediately go and wash up. :)

Today was pretty hot and so after the cleaning and making sure there were no little critters --I decided to jump in and cool off. After all I had cleaned it-- so I might as well enjoy it. After I swam a few strokes to burn a few calories I sat on the stairs and decided to take advantage of the quiet and do a little praying. Yes, I prayed for my regular blogging girls. 'Nise who has has been having some problems with a fibromyalgia flare up, Deena who just needs help because she is a pastors wife, Dee who is trying to loose weight, Nicki who is getting settled into a new house, Connie who's Dad is in the hospital, Karen who has been a little under the weather, Jenny who is moving on in her relationship with God, Holly... God knows those prayers................ and Gledwood.............

As I sat there, things like pine needles, leaves and a dead mosquitoe (yahoo!!) passed by. Some I picked out but some I let pass by. Our pool is under some trees, so every time I picked something out more would come. I figured I let the filter get some. As I sat there I noticed the mosquitoe come around again. Its little legs up in the air--floating around on its back. Lovely picture huh? But the best type of mosquitoe is a dead mosquitoe.

Anyway, I began to think how much my life was like the pool. In this life we will attract some yucky things and some trash. I have a filter in my mind that gets rid of a lot of it. The Holy Spirit is like the pool's filtration system it keeps things moving around so that they don't sink in and destroy the health of the temple. Sometimes I don't say no to things I should not watch and things I should not listen to-they sink in and my heart becomes a stinking place. So the Spirit keeps things circulating so eventually the filter(God) cleans it out--if I don't get in the way.

I now have a choice--all I have to do is submit to the soul cleaner and I become crystal clean again. I become a person people enjoy being around. Someone who radiates the sweet presence of the Lord and not the stinking smell of a stagnant temple.

We have a pool guy who comes by once a week to check the chemicals of the pool and he adds what is needed and tells us what we need to do to keep the pool clean and healthy. (Just for your information he is in his late 50's and he looks nothing like Mel Gibson in his prime :)
You and I who claim to be God's children have a cleaner with us all the time--the Holy Spirit.
If we listen to Him- He will help us keep the temple clean. He will let us know when we need to add a little more living water to keep our lives level just right. He will let us know when we need to spend a little more time in the word to filter out the massive about of the trash the world is throwing at us.

But we do have the freedom to ignore Him. We can ignore the things of this world swimming around in us. We can tell God that He does not know what He is talking about when He tells us that our Faith is not strong enough for what is coming up in our life. We can tell Him that fasting is not for today, and that tithing was just for the Old Testament times. We can tell Him we know what is best for our lives and to please leave us alone. Eventually the filter will become so clogged that it will burn us out. In other words the Spirit will not be able to stay around the mess we are carrying around that we will no longer hear Him and our lives will come to ruin.

God has been speaking to me about trust or the need to have more. Not trust in man but in Him.We should never get to a point where we think we do not need Christ to increase our Faith or our trust. Now, I can ignore what God is telling me or I can ask God to do whatever He needs to do to increase my trust. That is kind of a scary thing to do. But maybe that feeling in itself is proof that God is right. I need a little stretching to make room for more faith and trust
.
Lack of trust means that I need a greater understanding and knowledge of God. When I know Him--I will be able to trust Him with anything because He is trustworthy.
He is who He says He is. He is the alpha and the omega. He started this world and He will say what happens in it in the end. He wants to take my knowledge of Himself and turn it into understanding and wisdom. If I do not let Him be the one who cleans me out then He will not places within me anymore of His wisdom or understanding.

Am I ready to stagnate? No way.
What about you?

Tagged.............Come on it'll be fun!

I've been tagged.......

By Debbie over at Chocolate And Coffee (you just have to love that blog name).
It's one of the new MEMEs that I have seen going around. It's got some new info to fill in---- so lets participate and share a little more of US!

Accent - Weeeeeell, most people around here would say I sound like I am from some where else. I don't sound too southern unless I try too. :) My Dad was from up North and my Mom was from Mississippi--maybe they canceled each other out? Mom was an English and Grammar teacher so she kept me in check. But dawlin I kan drawl wit the best of 'em if I had a hankerin ta. :0

I don't drink soft drinks with sugar--yes, that means diet coke is my drink of choice after coffee that is. Right now my favorite is tea with mint and sweet n low.

Chore I hate - Bathrooms!

Pets - None at this time.

Essential Electronics - I love my laptop and I need the internet to talk to ya'll.

Perfume - My hubby is very picky because of his sinuses. There is a perfume at Victoria Secrets that is called Vanilla Lace. It smells like you opened a bottle of vanilla extract. So I guess I would have to say that is my favorite--although sometimes I get tired of it. I have been wearing it for about 10 years.

Gold or silver - I think I look better in silver --but my good stuff is gold--only because my wedding stuff came from grandparents and when Keith has gotten me stuff that is what he buys.
I'm not complaining! :)

Insomnia - Not usually an issue. If it happens I usually assume it is because God wants me to pray for something.

Job Title - Wife, Mom, Caregiver, Aunt, Mentor--that is about it now.

Most Admired Trait - I hope this means in someone else. If that is the case-- I would say humility and someone who is has the gift of mercy.

Kids - Son 18, daughter 9.

Phobia - Being where I can not get oxygen. I don't know if it is really a phobia--I am going to say no--I don't know anyone who would enjoy not being able to get air. My husband can not understand why I would have a problem learning how to scuba dive. :) It is just the thought.

Religion - Baptist by letter only! I believe the Bible and all that that entails!

Siblings - I have two brothers one older and one younger and I have a younger sister.

Time I wake up - 6 a.m.

Unusual talent/skill - I don't think I have any talent or skill that is unusual.

Vegetable I refuse to eat - brussel sprouts

Worst habit - thinking too much :)

X-rays - My jaw(I had TMJ)--my foot--that is it I think.

My favorite meal - Sauteed shrimp in lemon butter sauce with pasta. I will have to have some crispy french bread to go with that and the bread must have soft butter to spread. For dessert........Something light. I do enjoy cheesecake or maybe some chocolate covered strawberries. Or ice cream with the chocolate sauce that gets hard, this is a favorite too.


See that was not too bad. :)
Now I think we can all handle this one. If you would like to share in something that is light and fun let me know. You could save this for one of those times when you don't have anything to talk about. As if! :)
Don't forget to let me know when you put your list up.
I don't want to have to come out there and find you and tag you!

You can't take my joy

This is a post I have wanted to do for a while. These are my thoughts and feelings--I am not trying to teach doctrine.

Several years ago I began to hear about the persecution of the church in other areas of the world. People would talk about about the persecution that was coming to the church here. Some would say, you better get ready for it-- it's coming. And I agree, it will come because the book of Revelations teaches it.

But something about the fact that God promised we would face it if we were His--and yet people did not seem to be experiencing it today in America--that bothered me.
Then God took me on a little journey.

My life and walk with God began to change. I became the odd one in my circle of Christian friends. They thought I was a little too serious about the whole letting God change your life thing. We soon began to realize that we were being left out of things that were taking place. Parties would happen where everyone was invited--we'd find out afterwards that we had not been invited for a reason. A few said it was because they did not want us to ruin their good time.
I was also teaching in a womens group at this time. I was teaching what God was teaching me. God was drawing the line in my life and asking me if I wanted to be on His side or Satan's. I chose God's. Some of the women thought I was pointing fingers at their life with my teaching. If only they had known.

We were pushed outside of the group and not let back in.
At the time I could not believe that Christian's were acting like this. How could they be so mean?
My guts felt like they had been ripped from my body. I sank into a time of major discouragement. I carried anger in my heart for quite a while.
Then one day God showed me that I could not harbor hard feelings toward these people. They had been a tool of the devil. He had seen the growth in my life and where God was taking me and he was trying to shut me down. That is his job.

Most of us would not label this as persecution because it had come from people who were Christians. But it was.
Persecution comes in various forms. People, events, weather............whatever tool God allows him to use. That's right-- God has to give Satan permission before he can do anything.

Those events in my life made me strong in my God. They shook me up and flopped me upside down but when my feet hit the ground they landed on the solid rock. That is how God can promise us hope and a future. He promises to take what Satan tried to use for our destruction and flip it for our good.

So let Satan have his time of playing games.
We are the ones with the "get out of hell free card".
One day the powers he thinks are his will be yanked from his hands. And shackles will be placed on his hands and feet and he will be thrown into a pit from which he will never be allowed out again. Then our Savior will wipe away every tear and hard times will be forgotten as we step into the glorious eternity that awaits those called by His name.
Does that just make your heart speed up just a tad?
It does mine!

So ---recognize Satan's games for what they are----distractions that will steal our joy if we let them. But-----remember..............he did not give it and he can not take it away unless you give it up. Don't let satan steal your joy.
He'll try using circumstances (like termites), people, weather anything that means something to you---don't give in....FIGHT!
Our weapons and power are mighty to pull down anything that raises itself above our God.
OUR God--how cool is that?

Excess baggage

Many times she thought about what needed to be done.
She had even taken a step in that direction by buying some suitcases.
But eventually after tripping over them she moved them from the corner to the back of the closet.
Soon they were forgotten.

Months later her memory was jogged when someone reminded her again of the invitation.
They handed her the book with all the directions but it seemed that life's activities always got in the way. There was always some reason why it was just not the right time.

One day cleaning out the closet she saw the cases--tags still attached. Her heart longed to pull them out. Reaching for the instruction guide she realized now that the ticket for shipping had already been paid for.

Reaching out she grasped the handle before she lost her nerve.
Lifting the case she placed it on the bed. Taking a deep breath she flipped the latch. The lid swung easily open. Would it all fit?

Reaching behind she felt what she could not even look at. Closing her eyes she swung the feelings of insecurity and fear up and into the case. It took up so much room but she managed to push the old crumbling mess to the side. From her front pocket she pulled distrust and gently folded it and placed it beside fear. They would make good company for each other on the long trip.

Kneeling down she reach under the bed. Her stomach sunk as she grasped hold and pulled out the feelings of worthlessness. She thought she would never make it up to the case with the mass. But before she knew it it had easily joined the rest in the case.

There was only one more thing that had to go. It got in the way and tripped her up almost everyday. Reaching up she found what hung constantly above her head. Looking at it as if it were something of great value she leaned over and placed the future on top of fear.

She had not realized she was crying until the tears rolling freely down her cheeks began to splash inside the case . She knelt beside the case.
She was finished. All that remained was the closing of the case and placing it outside the door.
With quick determination she closed the lid and slid it to the floor.

Picking up the instruction guide she turned to the directions and followed them the best she knew how. Hearing the knock at the door she pulled the case toward the door.
Grasping the handle of the door she took a deep breath and yanked it open.
And there He was, just like the book said He would be. The instruction book said He would pick up her cases and carry them away. They would then be taken to the deepest area of the sea, weighted and tossed over board.

She wanted to say something sweet and profound
but all she could think to say as He reached out and removed the case was,
Thank You!

S.B

Micah 7:19 (New International Version)

19 You will again have compassion on us;
you will tread our sins underfoot
and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea.

Robert

For those of you who were and are still praying for Robert--here is a little update.
He has been at a place called Mission of Hope.
He has one month left to finish out his 90 days.

My guys were supposed to go diving this weekend for Michaels Birthday.
A birthday tradition for them.
The first boat had motor problems and so they had to cancel that trip.
They rescheduled with a group in Pensacola, Fla. They were to go out this morning but the waters were too rough and so they came back in and did a little diving in the bay.

On the way back Keith thought about Robert and decided to try and go by and see him. On Sunday's they are allowed visitors from 2 to 4. He did not know how to get to the place and so he started trying to get into contact with anyone who would know how to get there. He could not get anyone by phone. God worked it out and Keith was able to find someone in a parking lot that gave them directions to the place.

They got to spend two hours with Robert who was very surprised because he thougt he was not going to have any visitors today.
My men said both of their hears were touched by the visit.
God is still about doing some fantastic things.
Keith said the Robert he saw and spoke to was not the same Robert he once knew.

How awesome is our God to bring together strangers to pray for their brother--a brother they had never met.
Thank you all. One day when you get to heaven your Father and Robert will thank you for your faithfulness.

Don't run

I've been tagged by Just Me Amy Kate.
It has been a while since I have done a MEME--so let's see if I can come up with 8 things about me you might not already know. I am not going to tag anyone-- so relax! But if you want to be tagged--let me know when you put your post up.

The Rules: 1. I have to post these rules before I give you the facts. 2. Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves. 3. People who are tagged need to write their own blog (about their eight things) and post these rules. (**if you’re a non-blogger, you can email them!) 4. At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names. 5. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they’re tagged, and to read your blog.

8 Random things.............

1. I hate Comet. When I turned 8--(I was very mature for my age) Mom turned the bathroom cleaning over to me. I could not stand the way it felt on my hands. It was similar in reaction to someone scratching their finger nails across a chalk board.

2. I spent the first night of my marriage in a tent in Virginia in November! When we woke up the next morning it was 26 and there was frost on our sleeping bag. My hubby was going to fix me breakfast in bed but the pots were frozen to the table.

3. Habit? I have to shave me legs everyday. I have to because I can not stand the feelings of the prickly. I once told a friend that if I ever went into a coma--please shave my legs. If people in a coma do know what is going on-----please shave my legs. :)

4. I have a growing fascination with clouds. Mountains speak to me of the majesty of God--clouds are starting to do the same for me. One day He is going to step out on those clouds and call us home!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

5. I have enjoyed doing watercolor in the past. I have not done it in a long time. It helped me relax. It has probably been about 3 years since I have touched my water colors.

6. I love cooking creative food and having dinner parties. I did not get to do my womens dinner at church this year because of all the stuff going on. I love creating a theme and finding the right food to cook to match it. I'll see if I can find a picture to share.
I am going to try and post a picture of me during my culinary years. The above dinner theme was an island theme.This was my first culinary competition. I would imagine this was about 11 years ago. Sorry the picture is a picture of a picture--it was pre digital days.

7. I spent 7 years in college and did not end up with a BA or BS. I was one math class away from a BA. It used to bother me--it does not anymore.

8. I would love to go to Seminary. Probably not for the right reasons. I would love to make the professors think about what they think they know. Anytime we think we know what we need to know-----Danger! The more I get to know about the Bible and God----the less I know I know.
And I would like to go to delve in to some deep things. I love to go deep and have great discussions that most of us will never have the answers for. I don't like to argue. Sometimes we will just have to agree that we don't know for sure. ONE DAY WE WILL!

Bloomin

Good Friday Morning!
Is it a glorious day or what?
I was touched so much in the last two days by you guys. You are toooooo much!
My heart swells when I think of you. Did that sound corny? Sorry!

Here is a little snippet from my morning.
Julia and I have been watching the below mushroom grow. The last few mornings it has been getting taller--but it just had a little ball on top.
This morning when we went out for the bus we both noticed at the same time that our maturing mushroom had finally bloomed. I don't know if mushrooms could be said to "bloom"--but during the night last night our little mushroom burst forth.
I thought it was cool that Julia said, "Look what happened to our mushroom Mom".
Our mushroom--it just tickled me.

Fast forward and now I am inside with my cup of coffee spending some time with the Lord. Yes, if it is in the morning I must have a cup of coffee during my God time. They seem to go good together.
I have been reading in 2 Corinthians. Today I was in the 4 & 5 chapters. Usually I read until something hits me and then I stop--usually--and think about what the Spirit is telling me.

These were the two verses--
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen it eternal. (4:17)
We live by faith, not by sight. (5:7)

My spirit just shouted glory!!!!! when I read those this morning.

I felt like I got it. I got something new. I have heard those verses hundreds of times. I guess I would say that sometimes I hear them and they go in one ear and out the other. This morning they really hit me. Can I explain what I got? No. But it sunk deep. A little greater understanding --isn't that what we hope for?

I had a picture in my mind of God and Jesus looking down on me--kind of like Julia and I this morning admiring and noticing the change in our mushroom----then turning to look at each other with a grin on their faces saying, "She got it. She finally got it.".

When you have one of those light bulb moments with the word---He knows. He is proud of you when you stop long enough to "get it". And yes, I think He takes pride in our growth. You do when your child learns something don't you? How great to know that our growth lifts the heart of our Father.


Are you believing the lies
Your eyes are saying?
That beliefs are just delusions
And not worth obeying?
We put one foot down seeing the ground
But if we will step forth with our hearts--
We will be heaven bound.
Bound no more by our earthly thoughts
We will step forth in the freedom that His blood bought.
To walk on the wind that His glory sends
To be lost in His love
never
more
to descend!
Glory!

Thankful Thursday

Which way do I go--Which way do I go.............I am thankful He knows!

Good Day to You!
I missed out on Thankful Thursday last week so I wanted to be sure to get in this week.
What is the purpose behind these posts?
The purpose is to lift first the heart of our Father and second to lift the heart of the reader.
I agree with Iris about our posting being a ministry.
If sharing my life and what I am learning in my relationship with God helps someone......It will have all been worth it.

Today I am thankful to be celebrating my son's 18th birthday.
He is a people person just like his dad. People enjoy being around him and I pray that one day God will use this for His glory.
I love you Michael.

I am so thankful for my blogging girls who listen to my heart and accept me just where I am.

And like Iris, I am thankful that God can take the dessert times and bring a new sweetness to our relationship. Having our mind and heart stretched is not always a walk in the park.
But in the end when we look down at our heart and it is full and healthy---it is so worth it.

I am thankful for my husband. My heart was hurting last night. And even though he had had such a long day he still took the time to spend a little time concentrating on me and then prayed for me. I thank God for the growth in our marriage and being able to share with Keith where I am with out wondering if he would understand.

Last......I thank God that He holds my future. Because He already has it planned out I can remind myself that I don't have to be anxious about anything. He knows where our new home will be. Matter of fact if I listen-- He is going to show me right where to go to find this house.

For more Thankful Thursday posts go check out Iris at Sting My Heart

Who do you see

First I want to say that I am not looking for anything from you after you read this post. It has been on my mind lately--so I am just going to talk. I hope that after you finish reading--you think. Then look in the mirror.

As a little girl it seemed as if the "outward" me was constantly under attack by the ridicule of people. In other words--there was always something they found to dislike. My looks, my clothes, my personality, my parents, my behavior---this lead to a self image that was not healthy. I remember one guy in the 4 or 5th grade saying, "I would rather date my dog than you". Wonder where he is today? :) No hard feelings--he was just being used.
I was extremely aware of how I appeared to others. Or how I thought I appeared.

The older I got the more I wanted to disappear into the background. If they did not notice me--they could not hurt me with their rejection and hurtful remarks. I was very self conscious about my looks--which I thought made me stick out all the more. The remarks of kids and adults can leave hurt that only the healing hand of the Lord can take away. It was a big thing for me to be able to post that old picture on the post, "Not So Old".

Even through college I avoided a lot of people contact. This of course did not make me the most popular person. It is rough when on the inside your screaming for people to notice you and yet you are scared if they do- they won't find anything they will like. What a mess I WAS.

Then God took me on a little learning journey.
He allowed me to do great things and to begin to like myself for what I could do. Now why would He allow me to like myself in that way? I am not sure.
But He is the teacher and sometimes He allows things we think He shouldn't.

Finally after many years of seeing myself through others eyes and my eyes, He began to show me myself through His eyes. Boy was that the reality check that I needed. It has been an ever developing picture. Sometimes I enjoy the picture and sometimes I hang my head in shame.
But the security in it all ---- I know He loves ME............period.

I don't have to dress a certain way to earn His love and approval--I am already approved in Christ. That is security.

That security brings with it- a new me. But it is not really me. With a knowledge of who I am and how He sees me comes a boldness from the Spirit that amazes me. Sometimes I don't know me.
I hear things coming out of my mouth and I know where they are coming from--the Spirit. It is not me. Me is still shy and lacking everything. But with Him in me--I am lacking in nothing. Yes, God is still working on me. Thank heavens I am not finished.

I am learning that ALL GOOD things come from the Father above. Anything seen in me that is good-----it was a gift. A gift that came from God and has been planted in me by the Spirit. Only in order to draw the eyes of this world back to the Father. Any desire I have to please God or serve another ------it didn't come from me. In me is no good thing. I say that not out of sick insecurity but out of a heart that knows her creator.

So, in me are still memories of a little girl that was insecure..............every once in a while she would like to make me think I am still her. But the one He is molding-- filled with the Spirit of the living God--stands up and has to remind that little girl that she is just a facade. She is not real anymore.

When you look in the mirror who do you see?

Do you see the one He loves?

Or do you see the lie Satan wants you to believe?

I am just a girl looking into her Daddy's eyes for her approval.

Are you?

Heather--Sniff

This is from Heather's latest post on her cancer battle. She posted about her Dad coming over and helping her cut the last of her hair off. This is what her father commented. It brought and ache to my heart and tears to my eyes. What a precious Dad!
I pray God blesses this family mightily for sharing all of their lives struggles with us.

1. Dad Says:
   August 14th, 2007 at 5:00 pm

   My dear sweet baby
   I know that you have wanted to be set free of the remnants of your “Old hair style” for some time . You know that I have always preferred you with a longer cut, just daddy nostalgic I guess. I sometimes find myself allowing the memories to flood my mind, and wash over my heart of you with your beautiful hair, eyes, and smile. You have grown so much in so many wonderful ways, Today was very hard for me, and I didn’t fully appreciate it until I returned back home, alone. I felt so powerless to protect, and shield you from harm. And I cried before the Lord over you. As I got in touch with my sensitive side, I couldn’t stop thinking about shaving the remaining stubble of your once beautiful hair. As I thought of you, I thought about the verse that says a women’s hair is her glory; that really didn’t help things. And then the Spirit spoke to my spirit and said “Heather is My Glory”… I’ll be quite now and Praise Him, for His Will is perfect.

   Dad

It's a first!

I can not think of anything to blog about.
That's right--not a single thing.
Now, I wouldn't say I am speechless---- because I am talking right now.
But, other than the book I am reading--which I am really enjoying---nothing
exciting to talk about.
A friend of mine has enjoyed reading some stuff by a guy named Smith Wigglesworth.
Now I tried once and it was --at the time--a little much for this Baptist girl.
But God has stretched my mind just a tad in the last several years, so when I found them on sale I thought I would get a few. They were only 5 dollars each--originally 13.
So I have been reading one on Spiritual gifts. I like the way he talks.
He puts it right out there, no beating around the bush.
Beating around the bush really aggravates me.
So other than my book-- I am trying to not think to much about having to find a new house. That's right, now that Julia is in school, I am to start looking for something so that we are not paying rent.
What is going to take place with our new to us house -- will be a miracle from God. I just want to let ya'll know in advance because with the prices in our area after Katrina----our money will get something that needs to be torn down. But not if my Daddy gets involved!
I got on line last night to do a little research and what I saw made me a tad nervous. But I remineded myself of the truth--my Dad owns the cattle on a thousand hills and the hills too.
Think He will let me take a little of my inheritance in advance?

I'll show you a picture a picture of what I would like to have in the mountains.

I see this place every time we go do our conference in North Carolina. I think of cool evenings sitting in front of a big fireplace-looking out over the mountains as the sun is going down.
Maybe this will be my mansion in Heaven. :)

Other than my needing to keep my eyes on my Fathers face so that I don't get lost--today was good. Paw Paw and I had a good visit with Granny. The first good one in about 2 weeks. We then took care of some bank stuff so that he would have a little peace of mind and then we had catfish po-boys.
I got home and made some meatballs and spaghetti.
Did a little laundry and homework.
Now it is ME time.
For a little while anyway.
Keith has gone to a dive meeting. Michael and he will go diving on Saturday for Michaels birthday. Hopefully they will get some fish. Last time Michael speared a 35lb amberjack. It was so good grilled and baked. It freezes great since it is not a fatty fish.

I have a question for you.
Do you like parables?
What about modern day parables?
Can you imagine what it would have been like to sit on a hillside and listen to Jesus tell one? I enjoy a good puzzle for the mind. I wonder if that is what it was like for the people?
I think we talk in parables often in blogdom. We tell a little bit from our life or another story and then we explain it in heavenly terms or heavenly examples.
Modern day parables in Blogdom.
Sounds like a good book title.
Well I guess that is all for now. Just a few thoughts. Maybe more on parables later.

I love you guys.
I think you are a special gift from God for me at this time in my life.
I pray you always leave my site feeling encouraged and loved and maybe even comforted.
I don't ever want you to leave comfortable--I pray the words God speaks through me always push you a little closer to Him.
Have a great evening.
He has created an incredible display in the heavens just for you!

May my words be few--Unless I've thought 'em through

I believe I snagged this picture from Karen's blog.
I love it. This is what I picture the guys on our side looking like. Glorious, magnificent creatures that carry the glory of God with them because they have been in His presence.
They fight with us every time we fight in God's name.

I have been doing a little thinking on something I heard on a Christian program the other day. They were reading in Ephesians (may favorite book in the Bible) the fourth chapter. I think I'll share the verses with you so that you can follow my thoughts a little more easily.

Ephesians 4:22-32

The Message (MSG)

20-24But that's no life for you. You learned Christ! My assumption is that you have paid careful attention to him, been well instructed in the truth precisely as we have it in Jesus. Since, then, we do not have the excuse of ignorance, everything—and I do mean everything—connected with that old way of life has to go. It's rotten through and through. Get rid of it! And then take on an entirely new way of life—a God-fashioned life, a life renewed from the inside and working itself into your conduct as God accurately reproduces his character in you.

25What this adds up to, then, is this: no more lies, no more pretense. Tell your neighbor the truth. In Christ's body we're all connected to each other, after all. When you lie to others, you end up lying to yourself.

26-27Go ahead and be angry. You do well to be angry—but don't use your anger as fuel for revenge. And don't stay angry. Don't go to bed angry. Don't give the Devil that kind of foothold in your life.

28Did you use to make ends meet by stealing? Well, no more! Get an honest job so that you can help others who can't work.

29Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps, each word a gift.

30Don't grieve God. Don't break his heart. His Holy Spirit, moving and breathing in you, is the most intimate part of your life, making you fit for himself. Don't take such a gift for granted.

31-32Make a clean break with all cutting, backbiting, profane talk. Be gentle with one another, sensitive. Forgive one another as quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ forgave you.

(ME AGAIN)

As I was watching the program they were talking about the power we have been given to fight the forces of evil. But the one thing they stressed was that we must be walking on Gods side to be able to use this power.
If we are living in a way that glorifies Satan then why would God place His pure power in dirty hands? Wouldn't that be almost like He was placing His power into Satan's hands?

This past weekend all this was heavy on my mind. If my words are not being used to build someone up-- If when I tell a story I add a little here and there for emphases---If someone aggravates me and I withdraw my attention from them--If I use my mouth for anything other than what is pure, lovely, kind...................then I am walking powerless. And like the scripture says--I grieve His heart.

So I could say, "Yes, I know this is not good. But you know I'm not perfect and that is just the way I am".

So why bother to try and do anything different?

Because, I will have to pay for my rebellion-- and so will others. How will others pay for my sin? When they come to me for prayer and I have sin in my life--God will not listen. I can get as loud as I want with my words telling the spiritual forces what the Bible says--but they will be just words, backed by nothing more than hot air.

How many times has Satan laughed at me when I prayed--because he has been watching my life and he knows I have been acting like I was on his side????????

I don't know about you-- but I don't like the idea of Satan laughing at me. And I don't want to grieve God's heart. And when someone asks me to pray for them--I want my prayers to make the forces of the devil tremble.

Let's not give Satan a stronghold!

Not so old

Keith and I taking some mandatory pictures at a family get together. Not a bad picture. A year ago I would have run from the camera. My man did the dishes today after our dinner. No, I didn't even ask. Yes, I love my man! No, not just because he did the dishes.
He puts up with me--who else would?
Mom and Dad taking the required pictures. We had to get Dad to take his glasses off
because the flash was catching the lens.

Today(Sunday)was my Dad's 69 birthday. I do hope I got that right. The other day Paw Paw asked me how old he would be and I told him--72-73? Sorry Dad!

We had the crew over and had a great time. We had some great shrimp and crawfish pasta. Yes, I fixed it and it was fabulous. It had more calories than we even want to think about --so tomorrow I will have to be careful. After our entree Dad opened his gifts and then the kids headed for the pool. (picture above)
We had some quiet and were able to sit around the table and enjoy some coffee and dessert. Nope, I did not partake in the later because I have been trying to watch myself.

We had a great time and I thought I'd include some pictures.
To the right---Me, Mom, my sister Jeannie.
Next Birthday? My son turns 18 on Thursday.
A little blast from the past. My Aunt sent this little reminder to my Dad today. Yes, that is me standing next to my Mom. I guess I am around 12 to 14.
What a hoot.Thanks Aunt Sandy!
I had to post this so that in later years no one could use it to blackmail me. :)