Happy and content

I am back!
It is a little late to think about posting --so I just wanted to say, Hi!
I will be back with a post tomorrow.
Let's just say, God gave me the best of both worlds.
He loves me and I am so glad.

Thank you!

My morning started off with an appointment at the tanning salon. I got my first facial--I'll spare you the details. It was fun and I will try to do better at taking care of my skin. ;)

This is the mist tanning box. I am not orange so far--we will see. I am trying to stay dry because I was told I would spot if I got wet before the 6 hours were up. Thank you God for no rain.

This table is great for your skin. It steams minerals into your skin. You do have to get in your birthday suit-but I did come prepared. :) I don't know why but today I kept thinking I needed to tell you that you had to get a la mode to get in the machine. I guess that would be aux naturel instead. It was great and I felt relaxed after I finished.

This was the chair for my facial. I am glad to say that all the equipment is still in working order after my appointment. Poor lady, I do hope that I was not her first person never to have had a facial before.

Next was lunch. We had a great time and the food was pretty good. Not as sold on Greek food as I am on Mexican.

Here are some of my girls. They hold a special place in my heart and they take good care of me. I love you guys! We enjoyed the conversation and closed down the restaurant. The lady who took our picture was only to willing to take it if only we would leave so they could clean up.

Now for the big surprise!
This is my girl Tracy. She took care of me on my Birthdays in the past before Keith got his act together. Usually she ships me a little something, because a few years ago she moved away :( . I had been on the phone with her off and on today and she kept asking me if my package had arrived. She had me looking all around the house. I was to be expecting a UPS delivery.
Around 4 the door bell rang and I thought, finally--when I opened the door it was not the UPS guy. It was Tracy--all the way from Georgia.
Now, Keith and I were to leave tomorrow to go away for the weekend. He knew she was coming in and was going to give us tonight and tomorrow together.
Talk about having your heart pulled in so many directions.
How could I leave when I had not seen her since Christmas?
But I did not have to worry, my sweet hubby knew what was going on and tonight he told us to go ahead and go where ever we wanted to. What a man! Yes, he will be rewarded.
So I will be off line for a few days.
I'll take pictures and when I get back I'll fill you in on our adventure.
Thanks for all your birthday wishes. You guys are too sweet.
Have a great weekend.

It's my Birthday

It is that day again already!
Seems like they are coming around a little more quickly these days.
Hubby got up this morning a fixed breakfast. Very nice. Thank you baby.
I opened some gifts-I had gotten one several weeks ago and some last night at church.
I am big about not opening them until "the day". Sometimes I make it-- sometimes I don't.
I woke to birthday wishes from Coke, Clairol and Carnival Cruise lines(alas- no gift certificate for a free cruise, that would have been a nice touch)--they really shouldn't have. :)
Dear sweet Karen --my tomorrow girl--sent me some sweet things from all the way from over on the other side of the world. I love it girl. I have a "thing" about pens--you were right on tract there. And it will be cool to read something that you thought was great. The chocolate had a rough trip but the rest made it fine. Thank you for thinking of me.
I also have a thing about red birds. They are a visual reminder of Gods love--I did a post about them awhile back. So Linda, thank you for the special reminder-I can't believe you found something like that. I guess if I don't get to go to a mountain hideaway for my birthday--I can enjoy looking at one. I loved it.

Plans for the rest of the day?
Keith is going to take Paw Paw, and I am going to spend some time using the gift certificate Keith gave me. I am going to have my first facial and spray on tan. Now, I have done neither of these before. I am a little nervous about the spray on tan. I have a mental picture of turning into a oumpa loompa from Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.
I told my pastors wife that at least it will have started to fade before I have to go back to church.
I guess if Beth Moore can do it--so can I.
I'll let ya'll know tomorrow how it went. They say it takes 24 hours to show up.
24 hours of wondering if I have turned into something that sprung from a Florida orange grove. :)
Then I am going to strectch myself a little further and go to lunch at a Mediterranean restaurant with two of my girls. This will probably be more of a stretch for Linda--my country girl.

As for the rest of the day--we will see.
So far so good.
42--not looking bad so far!
Love you guys and thank you for the birthday wishes!

My Girl

As we left church tonight God gave me a little gift. It came from my girl.
They were asked in her class to write down how they should behave in church and what they should do and not do. I enjoyed the answers of my little girl.
Some of the spelling is rough but I want to write it the way she did-she is in third grade.

How I shode behave in church.

We shouldn't play sword fighting with pencils.
We shouldn't run in the sacherwary.
We should listen to Mrs. tim. (this is our pastor and He is not a she--ops! )
If someone gets saved you should welcome them to the family.
When we pray close your eyes and bow your head.
When your dowing someting wrong and you hear a voice and you anor it you should listen.

I LOVE YOU JESUS!


Each of the things Julia has listed I remember talking to her about.
We tell them not to play in church because they might distract someone who is hearing the voice of God. We tell them not to run in God's house because it shows a lack of respect for God. It is important for them to sit and try to listen to what the pastor is teaching. They may not understand it all but seeds are being planted. And when the Lord move in a miraculous way--I want her there to see it.
The love and unity in our little church is growing. I think God is pleased with our hearts. We want to pass this sense of unity and love to our children.
We are trying to teach our children to love and accept people in the right way. We will be known by our love. And that she wants to welcome people to the family--it shows me she knows she has the right to welcome them to her family. :)
No, closing our eyes when we pray and bowing our heads are not mandatory. But if we are to join others in agreement-it is important to actually hear what they are saying. Sometimes this would help some adults too. :)
I love the last one. This means my little girl knows about the Holy Spirit. Not only does she know about Him but she has heard Him. That is something to praise God for.
She is learning to listen to the voice of our Father.
That does my heart good.

I love my church. They are my people. I share a blood connection with them.
They know me and love me.
Are your part of my family?
If you are not I would love you to be and so would God. I promise I will love you just the way you are. More importantly--God already knows you and He loves you just the way you are.

What does God think?

Some of you from places outside of the United States may not have been touched by the recent events in the Christian world going on over here. My heart is heavy over the recent media flash over the recent fall among the Christians in the media. Paula White and Husband and the husband of Juanita Bynum--have become the object of ridicule by most.

It is not the first time that a Christian has fallen prey to the schemes of the devil and until the Lord returns--they won't be the last. Gosh, I have fallen in some way today. And honestly, so have we all. Maybe not in the same way these individuals did--but we all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.
Now that is my major concern. As people--and I have read quite a few--pick up their stones and rear back ready to nail them; I can't help but wonder who they are really going to hit when that rock flies. I don't even have to hesitate at the answer. It will be Jesus.
Long after these individuals disappear from the public eye, this testimony will still be written on people's hearts. And next time someone talks to them about what a loving God we serve and how He changes our hearts and makes us a loving people--they will remember. They will remember that that LOVE did not seem to stop a man of God from hurting his wife. Or that love did not seem strong enough to hold a marriage together. And His name will once again be drug through the muck.
Can you imagine the heart of God right now? He still loves these people. It is his desire that actions are brought before Him and made right. Repentance is key. Will they be able to maintain a witness for God to the nations? THAT WILL BE UP TO GOD.
He knew the plans that He had for them before they messed up. There were some major mess ups in my life along the way. No, I was not a public figure like they were--but my actions did hurt those around me. Am I no longer useful to Him?
I think the story of Sandi Patti would be a good one to be remembered. I was over at Holly's today and she was talking about how much she enjoyed the conference she attended this past weekend. Sandi Patti, was there to minister.
I know my thoughts are scattered but I just had to speak up. We are to go forth in love. We judge not--because we don't want to be judged in the way we have judged. God will discipline His children. Me pointing a finger is not going to make the situation any better. Not only that, the world will look at us and say, Wow, I'm glad I am not the object of their attention. We had better be very careful before we start to talk about anyone. Gossip. Seems to me that unless what we are saying is going to come from a heart that is gently and loving, maybe we should just pray.
I hurt for these people because they are getting ready to walk a rough path. I hurt for them because one day they are going to have to look into the face of the ONE whom they hurt the most by their actions. And, I hurt for the individuals who are going to be flipped upside down because they trusted and looked up to these individuals.
Maybe we should look at ourselves and do a little inventory. An inventory to see is there are any areas in our lives where we have stepped over the line and are in danger of falling snare to the devils schemes. At some point they must have thought that "they stood", because now they have fallen.
WE DON'T PICK UP STONES TO BURY THOSE WHO HAVE FALLEN.
Instead, we fall to our knees and ask the God of heaven to let His kingdom come and his will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Pray for the body-- it is hurting and broken.
JESUS LOVED IN ACTIONS AND WORDS. GOD IS STILL ON HIS THRONE.
May they know us by our love.

Let it rain!

Someone asked me to tell the story of the prophet who spoke a word over my life. This is that story and the events that surrounded it.
A few years ago our little church (about 50 or 60) started fasting and praying for the revival services we were going to schedule. Our pastor told us that he wanted to make sure we were ready and that it happened when God wanted it to.
And so we prayed and fasted.
This was after the Hurricane Katrina. Most of us were back to "normal" but there were still many workers in our area. One day our pastor received a call from a man working for FEMA (the government agency working to help people after the storm) who was looking for a place to stay while in town. He was calling churches who might have extra room for someone. He got on the internet and found our website and got the phone number from it--and then called. Girls, our little church has a big heart. If we have it we give it. Our pastor opened his home to this "stranger"-who became a blessing to us when he came and played the piano for our service. We don't have a piano player. Haven't for about 7 years. Still praying for one.
Now, I need to tell you something about the little story I just told you.
Our church does not have a website.
Never had one and we still don't have one.
Let that sink in.
When this young man found out that we were praying about having revival he said he knew someone and he was going to call them.
This was in January.
The man he was to call (he did not know this) spends the month of January fasting and praying- off by himself. He normally does not answer his phone during this time. Our new friend was not a close friend of the man he was calling-so I guess he really didn't know if he would be able to get into contact with him. The evangelist answered his phone because God told him to.
The evangelist called our pastor and said God had previously told him he would be doing a revival in Louisiana that year. Hmmmmm. This was around a Wednesday--Sunday he showed up at our church. He came to visit to meet our people.
Our pastor sat down and spent some time speaking with him and getting to know his heart.
Revival was then scheduled.
Now since this is about my story, I will start to include me in the story. :)
I would find out later that the evangelist asked my pastor why I was so closed off.
In other words----I don't take anyone or anything at face value. And, if anyone is planning on sharing with me spiritually--I am going to try and discern the heart it is coming from before I accept it. Part of this standoffish attitude is because of my past and part because of my gifting.
Sometimes it makes people think I am aloof. But I am really not.
We started getting ready in a serious way for revival. Our pastor always makes a point of telling
us that revival starts with us. Don't pray for revival if you don't want God to go into all your closest and clean out the crud.
Everyone was assigned a day to fast. Some days had more than one person fasting.
We were seeking God's face with all our might.
And then it arrived.

I guess this is going to be a long post-so if you need to take a potty break or go feed the kids--you may do so now. :)

OK, are we all back now? Good!
The day arrived and I think we were all expecting for God to show up in person.
And He did, we just didn't see Him face to face or of course I wouldn't be writing this post.
Now, I would like to remind you that we are a Baptist church. Our denomination has not in the past been one who has viewed God outside of the box that He was placed in generations ago.
Sorry if that stepped on some feet.
I wish I could explain the feeling in the air that Sunday morning when the first service began.
Charged and expectant.
After the service Bro Scott asked for anyone who wanted to receive from God to come to the altar. If God had something for me I wanted it. I am not a naturally emotional woman and as I have said, I am usually on guard--but I went forward. I held my hands, palm up, and asked God to give me whatever He had fit to. I told Him to take me--I was His.
Nothing miraculous happened. I do remember while on my knees Bro Scott coming up behind me and laying his hand on my shoulder. All he said was, this one is special. Honestly, I remembering thinking, Yes, we all are.
Now, from the outset of this revival we did not set how many days it would be held.
I will say that normal revival is three days.
Ours went 10. And then it stopped. It was a finished work.
During those days we got to know Bro Scoot and his wife. He also had some others come with him. They prayed while he served. We had some awesome times of prayer during this time.
He taught us a lot about having respect for our pastor and taking care of him through prayer.
We had time after service and before in front of the altar. God spoke marvelous things during those times. I have spoken before about how God called me to ministry when I was 18. I told Him no at that time. I guess there was a question in my mind about if God was still going to use me in that area. He answered that question for me during those days.
I wish I had had a tape recorder during those times when Bro Scott was speaking the words of God over me. It is amazing that during the past few years God would bring to remembrance things that had been spoken.
This little Baptist girl experienced some incredible things during those days. Times when in prayer I began crying (gut wrenching) for the souls of people and I could not stop. Times when I came into contact with such putrid evil in a person that I was almost frozen. Times of such close tenderness from God that when a woman wrapped her arms around me from behind during that time--I saw that she was spiritualy dead.
During one of those evenings I remember looking around at people lost in prayer. Bro Scott had been speaking over people and I began to wonder if God had anything for me. I was feeling a little jealous. Then the Holy Spirit dealt with me. I got my heart right and I thanked God for speaking to His people even if it would not be me that night. Not two seconds after I prayed that Bro Scott came over and touched my shoulder and had me stand up. He had my pastors wife and his wife stand on either side of me and then he had his wife put her hand on my abdomen and he placed his hand on hers. Then he began to speak. This is when he began to talk about me being a provoker and that God would begin to teach me that way too. That God was calling me to get out of the boat and that I would walk on water. And that God would use me to take our little church places that it would not go otherwise.
There was more that was so powerful. The presence of God was like a heavy blanket that fell over me. I did not want to resist. They laid me down on the floor and Bro Scott took off his jacket and covered me with it. I knew what was going on but I did not want to be distracted from the presence of the Lord. I did not want it to end.

That is it for now.
These experiences may be common place for some--but they were not for me.
I believe that God has given me a personality that protects me.
Years later I am still processing the things spoken over me. When the time arrives God reminds me what was spoken during that time.
I hope this has encouraged your heart. I do welcome comments and thoughts. God is still speaking through His people. He is still a God of the miraculous. If we are searching after Him with all our hears--HE WILL BE FOUND!
May you find yourself face to face with our God as you seek Him with a pure heart.
Matthew 5:8

Provoking

When is the last time you have been provoked?
All of those who have kids probably could say, "A few minutes ago".
A few years ago a prophet spoke a word over my life. He said,
"You are a provoker and God will teach you by provoking you. Let Him provoke you."
Hmmmm, it is not something I was looking forward to as an enjoyable experience. Kind of like having sandpaper rubbed on your skin, with no clue of why it is happening at the beginning. you Been there?

Sometimes God brings an individual or incidents into our lives to provoke us.
Here is the definition of provoke.

pro·voke

1.	to anger, enrage, exasperate, or vex.

2.	to stir up, arouse, or call forth (feelings, desires, or activity): The mishap provoked a hearty laugh.

3.	to incite or stimulate (a person, animal, etc.) to action.

4.	to give rise to, induce, or bring about: What could have provoked such an incident?

5.	Obsolete. to summon.

In the last two years I have had quite bit of number one. People and circumstances that treid to push me over the edge. That was not there pupose though in the mid of God.
This I would say, was the rough grade sandpaper in process. The roughness of these things made me angry or vexed me. (to torment; trouble; distress; plague; worry:)
Usually, if honest, I probably vexed whoever or whatever right back.

I don't guess I often clapped my hands in glee when I recognized that I was being provoked.
If I had believed the word of the prophet I guess I should have.
There is a verse from my morning devotion that hit me--Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing without revealing His plan to His servants the prophets. - Amos 3:7

How many prophets have you had speak into your life about what God is planning?
Would you recognize them if they spoke to you? Of course we should always take there words to the Bible and to God for affirmation.
I know in the past that I have tendency to run from those who provoke me.
I don't like feeling uncomfortable and edgy.

When the provoking comes it arouses and pulls forth what God has planted in us--if we let it.
Yesterday, my pastor told me that the circumstances in my life have been planned by God to teach me how to use my spiritual gift. Maybe part of my frustration has been because I have refused to use my gift in my everyday life. He said that I am to open my mouth and speak the truth.
Sounds like a "duh" statement I guess--but it is true for all of us.
Have you ever thought that possibly the reason we go through such times of frustration and aggravation, might be because we are trying to handle things in the flesh instead of with the gift God has given us. I guess it would really be compared to hold back the rushing river that is flowing up from deep inside--- by simply closing our lips. You can feel the pressure building. And instead of opening our mouth and speaking the TRUTH---we explode in the flesh.
My goal this week----open my mouth (in love) and speak the truth.

Food for thought

First let me say that this post was sparked in my mind by Victoria at Windows To My Soul.
She is new to me and I have enjoyed reading some things that have triggered some thought.
Yes, I LOVE food for thought.
She posted a video clip that was right up my ally.
Please watch it and then I will finish up with some thoughts. You know I LOVE to hear what's in your heart and what is going on in your mind. Yes, that means you have to press the comment area and leave a comment.:)


Well, what did you think?
I am not down on the big churches. Nor do I have a problem with "programs".
But, don't you think that maybe we have just forgotten --I hope--how powerful the Word of God is and how it is able to stand on its own? I say-- I hope-- because what if the reason we have had to come up with so many programs is that some of the leaders fell in love with the WORDS
before they came to know the power of the WORD?
Pretty scary thought.
What if people in ministry all over become worn out because they are doing things in their own power rather than letting the power of the Word go before them and have its perfect work?

Why discuss this?
Today at church we celebrated the power of the WORD and the Spirit.
This was your celebration too. Remember praying for Robert? Today was his first Sunday back at church since he got home from Mission of Hope in Mobile, Ala. If you do not know his story and are interested- you can click on his name and go back and read his story.
For those of ya'll who joined our little church in prayer--this is your victory too.
I wish you could have heard him today. With eyes clear and a heart filled with passion for the one who set him free--he is a new man. I have never known the Robert I say today. I have known him for about three years and he has always been on heavy meds for depression and a bi polar disorder. Today he is drug free-prescribed and otherwise.
Our church rejoiced as one of our family members was now back home. This was a rough experience for Robert and Lauree--painful for all as at times we thought we might loose our brother. This little adventure with learning the power of the word, prayer and fasting-- has changed our little church. We are a tight family group. We love each other deeply. God is doing amazing things in and among us. We are moving as one!
Gods' words are alive! They are powerful. They are capable of cutting away the dead decaying mess of this world-- so that the healer can truly set us free. It works.
He is not a liar. His words will not come back void.
There is power in the blood and power in His words.
We did not have a sermon today at church. The Lord moved. The Spirit fell. People testified about Gods goodness. People spent time at the altar and people had hands laid on them and they were prayed for and over. Sound like we had fun? You better believe it.
It was getting close to one when we ended, and that is with the smells of home cooked food coming from the back of the church. Today was dinner on the grounds.
God is about something big.
And, if we will stay out of His way--the ride will be incredible.
Looking forward to seeing what other miraculous things Gods words will change.
Put His word to the test--it will be found faithful!
Lifting HOLY hands! \o/

Something fun!

I know where I am going

I got this this morning and I thought it was good.

Billy Graham is now 86 years old with Parkinson's disease.

In January 2000, leaders in Charlotte , North Carolina ,
invited their favorite son, Billy Graham, to a luncheon in
his honor.

Billy initially hesitated to accept the invitation because he
struggles with Parkinson's disease. But the Charlotte
leaders said, "We don't expect a major address. Just
come and let us honor you."
So he agreed.

After wonderful things were said about him, Dr. Graham
stepped to the rostrum, looked at the crowd, and said,
"I'm reminded today of Albert Einstein, the great physicist who
this month has been honored by Time magazine as the
Man of the Century. Einstein was once traveling from
Princeton on a train when the conductor came down the
aisle, punching the tickets of every passenger. When he
came to Einstein, Einstein reached in his vest pocket. He
couldn't find his ticket, so he reached in his trouser pockets.
It wasn't there, so he looked in his briefcase but couldn't find
it.
Then he looked in the seat beside him.
He still couldn't find it.
The conductor said, "Dr. Einstein, I know who you are.
We all know who you are. I'm sure you bought a ticket.
Don't worry about it."
Einstein nodded appreciatively. The conductor continued
down the aisle punching tickets. As he was ready to
move to the next car ,
he turned around and saw the great physicist down on his hands
and knees looking under his
seat for his ticket.

The conductor rushed back and said, "Dr. Einstein,
Dr. Einstein, don't worry, I know who you are. No problem.
You don't need a ticket.
I'm sure you bought one."


Einstein looked at him and said, "Young man, I too, know who I am.
What I don't know is where I'm going.'"


Having said that Billy Graham continued,
"See the suit I'm wearing? It's a brand new suit.
My wife, my children, and my grandchildren are telling me
I've gotten a little slovenly in
my old age. I used to be a bit more fastidious. So I went
out and bought a new suit for this luncheon and one more occasion.


You know what that occasion is? This is the suit in which
I'll be buried. But when you hear I'm dead, I don't want
you to immediately remember the suit I'm wearing.
I want you to remember this:

I not only know who I am .. I also know where I'm going."

His People

As I was watching a Christian broadcast this morning, I was reminded that not only are the Muslims celebrating a holy holiday but the Jews are also. Both of these people groups have refused to accept the one sacrifice that is acceptable to God. They are both by tradition trying to find their own way to God.
The Muslims are practicing Ramadan this month-fasting from sun up to sun down. The Jews began their fast this morning at sun up and will continue till sun down on the 22nd.
I guess my heart was touched when I thought of all the ways they are trying to get to God. So many traditional acts that they must do correctly in order to achieve acceptance by God.
Yesterday some of the Jews were practicing a tradition called, Kapparot. It is found no where in the Torah. They believe that if they wave a chicken over their head and ask God to let that chicken take their sins and then kill the chicken,
they will be forgiven their sins for the past year. It is a purifying act that then allows them to
celebrate Yom Kippur--the day of atonement.
Here is some information from some Jewish sites.

Yom Kippur, which in 2007 begins at sundown Sept. 21, and lasts until sundown Sept. 22, is one of the most serious Jewish holidays. Jews who do not regularly observe other holidays often make an exception for Yom Kippur, which occurs on the tenth day of the Hebrew month of Tishri.

This is judgment day. Many Jews practice repentance, say prayers, and give charity to obtain God's forgiveness for any sins made in the past year.

---

What is kapparot?

Kapparot is a custom in which the sins of a person are symbolically transferred to a fowl. It is practiced by some Jews shortly before Yom Kippur. First, selections from Isaiah 11:9, Psalms 107:10, 14, and 17-21, and Job 33:23-24 are recited; then a rooster (for a male) or a hen (for a female) is held above the person's head and swung in a circle three times, while the following is spoken: "This is my exchange, my substitute, my atonement; this rooster (or hen) shall go to its death, but I shall go to a good, long life, and to peace." The hope is that the fowl, which is then donated to the poor for food, will take on any misfortune that might otherwise occur to the one who has taken part in the ritual, in punishment for his or her sins.

I am not sure why this is hitting me so hard this morning. We are told to pray for the peace of Jerusalem. You have heard the old saying-
Know Jesus, know peace/No Jesus, No peace.
Their deepest need is Jesus.
Isn't it odd that both of these people groups have rejected the only one who can help them find the peace they so desperately need?
I thank God for my salvation and for removing the veil from my eyes
so that I can see the truth.
I pray today that prayers lifted for the Jews and the Muslims alike-will bring Millions to
THE SALVATION.

What will you do for Jesus?

Someone asked me the other day about my friend who used to be a Muslim.
If you would like to read the first post where I talked about her you can go here.
I have not heard from her lately. She was avoiding me.
I called her last night on the way to church and her answering machine picked up.
Nothing new. But God told me to call and so I did.
Today while trying fix Keith's computer--she called.
That is the first time she has called me in over two months.
We talked for a long time.
She is walking through a lot of confusion. Satan is manipulating so many things in her mind.
I let her know that I knew that she was going back to the Muslim beliefs. I told her that there should be no secrets between us. I also assured her of my love for her. Bottom line--which I found myself saying quite often--I told her I loved her, not what she did or did not do.
Love.
The big difference between Christ followers and Allah followers.
I told her that God felt the same way I did about loving her.
I wish I could go into more details. But, let me just say her heart is not hard. She is not sure where she stands. She misses her culture. That is not wrong.
The most important question I asked her was,
"What are you going to do with Jesus?"
The Muslims just believe he was a prophet and a good man and
that he really did not die on a cross.
Then, of course they believe that He is not the only way to God.
I wish you could have heard her response. The tone of her voice.
It was like a little girl that was lost.
She said, "I don't know".
That brought such joy to my heart. See, she has met Jesus face to face.
I saw fruit. I saw joy. I saw love for brothers and sisters while she was among us.
Please pray that the Spirit of the living God will make her very aware of the truth.
And that when others teach her things that are lies that she hears instead the Holy Spirit.
She is not the only one on the line. Her family comes from a long history of Muslim believers.
It is time to break the chain. We can help.
God is counting on us to step up to the plate and fight for the ones that He loved
more than life itself.
She is a little lost lamb and the Shepherd wants her back in the fold.
Thank you--she will too one day.
What will you do for Jesus?

Thankful Thursday--and hopefully everyday!

Good morning!

\o/ The coolness of the Fall is here and that is so tops on my thankful list. I love the chance to pull out my jeans and a light jacket. Well, maybe I don't need the jacket yet-but I am looking forward to it. ;)

\0/ I am thankful for my church family and how they keep me grounded. I feel so loved and cared for and it is a safe place for me. Thank you God for removing boundaries and healing my heart so that I could trust again.

\o/ Thank you for my sweet hubby who knew I was stressing and gave me a birthday present a little early-- so I could spend some time pampering myself. I love you baby!

\o/ I thank God for the rough times. That even when I don't understand why life is what it is---He promises me that He is at work. And, He is working it together for my good! Yes, I think I can thank Him for that.

\o/ I am thankful for the growth that I see taking place in my spiritual walk. Times before when times of sin would lead me down a path of "paying for it"--today that is over with. My God is not like this world and the only ones He is going to make pay for their sins are the ones who reject Him and step into eternity with out His blood. Thank you JESUS for your blood!

\o/ Thank you God that you want me in your life. When I don't approach your throne boldly--you look for me anticipating the sound of my voice. I love you. You are pure and lovely. In you is no impure thought. Thank you that you don't hold a grudge and you never withhold your love from me. I need you more than life itself. Thank you for your patience.

Thank you Iris!
I have met some really neat ladies through this. Have a great BIRTHDAY!
And, if you want to meet Iris or some other nice women go on over to Sting My Heart.

Gandma Brumfield

Good Morning!
Isn't today just beautiful? There is a little coolness in the air and I love it. When you are used to the high 90's with humidity in the same area--it makes the 70's a gift from God.
The sun is streaming down through the pine trees and the presence of the Lord is near to my senses. It is a beautiful thing!
This morning I am babysitting one of my grandkids. :)
What, you didn't know I was a grandmother?
Well, according to my man, the girls I mentor are my daughters. So I would guess that would make their children--my grandchildren.
At this time I have three grandchildren.
Jordan, is sacked out in my arms, which means I am pecking at the keys with one hand.
You are right, this won't be a long post.
I just wanted to encourage you to rest in the arms of our Father today. He has promised us rest and peace if our minds and eyes are focused on Him.
I have been reading in the Psalms, at the recommendation of a friend. It is important while in the pot,(see former post) that while we can not see Him we keep our hearts tuned to hear the truth bought to remembrance by the Spirit. When my minds starts to drift and I think I smell smoke-- because after all it is getting a little hot and dry in here--the Holy Spirit will remind me of truth-- if I let Him.
Here is a little something good that touched my heart this morning.
Psalms 119:73-80(the message)
With your very own hands you formed me; now breathe your wisdom over me so I can understand you. When they see me waiting, expecting your Word, those who fear you will take heart and be glad. I can see now, God, that your decisions are right; your testing has taught me what's true and right. Oh, love me--and right now!--hold me tight! just the way you promised. Now comfort me so I can live, really live; your revelation is the tune I dance to. Let the fast-talking tricksters be exposed as frauds; they tried to sell me a bill of goods, but I kept my mind fixed on your counsel. Let those who fear you turn to me for evidence of your wise guidance. And let me live whole and holy, soul and body, so I can always walk with my head held high. Isn't that great? There are so many good truths in this passage.
I love this, "now breathe your wisdom over me so I can understand you"-how intimate is that? In that intimacy we are given wisdom so that we can understand God. So the question would have to be--are you close enough to God to feel His breath?
And what about this?
"When they see me waiting, expecting your Word, those who fear you will
take heart and be glad."
Someone out there is watching me. Their hope is that I will get the WORD.
Kind of like when I go to church on Sunday with the hope that my pastor has been waiting and listening to God that week. And that he has gotten a massive word from God for His people.
People need a Word from us. Sometimes what God gives us is just for us. But, at other times what He gives us is a Word for those who are watching us. And this is one last tidbit that hit me--"comfort me so I can live, really live;".
So could I say that I have not really lived until I have been comforted by God?
I think according to this, I could. Why would I need to be comforted unless there had been some hurt or some trouble?
So here again I can be thankful in the rough times because I am going to be comforted by the one who is not only going to impart comfort---BUT LIFE!
His comfort will enable me to live life in a totally new way.
The best way.
That's it for now. This post has taken a little while. Stops to check on his mom. A bottle. A diaper change. And now that this is finished it is time to go and pick up Mom and take them home.
So--ta, ta for now.
Enjoy a blessed day in the LORD.

A Little down home

Here is another little peak into the thing called, Sharon's Brain.

On the way to Franklinton today to see Granny I began to have a little picture develop in my minds eye. The picture was of a pressure cooker. Now for those of ya'll who are not aware of this old time cooking device here is a little info about how it works.

Pressure cookers. If hearing those words makes you think of an unwieldy pot that sounds like it's about to lift off of a launch pad, then you haven't discovered the new second generation of pressure cookers. Gone are the days of seeing steam pouring out of a weight-valve system, the constant hissing and jiggling that makes you think the thing on your stove is a bomb about to explode.

Foods that normally take hours to prepare using conventional methods take only a third of the time to cook. That adds up to both time and energy savings. Also, with the newer, second generation cookers little or no steam escapes during the cooking process.

I remember Mom using this to cook when I was little. I remember seeing the pot with the steam pouring out of the top. I also remember that what came out of the pot was so tender and good.

Something about that time under pressure, heat and steam
infused that meat with incredible flavor.
I remember Mom putting the little cap on top of the little spout. She would turn on the flame and it did not take too long before the little lid started to jiggle back and forth and it made a little sputtering noise. She would set the timer and let that heat build and pressure build and it would cook what was on the inside.
Then when the timer went off she would turn off the heat and let the temperature drop.
Once that little top had stopped moving she would take a hot pad and remove the little cap. And because the temperature was not as hot, the steam coming out was not explosive. She would then put the pot under cool water to drop the temperature quickly
so that she could remove the lid.
And then we could enjoy the finished product.

I started thinking about myself as the ingredient in that pressure cooker. God placing me in situations and allowing the pressure to rise. The area starts to feel confining. The heat of attitudes and actions begin to bombard me. Then like the steam trying to escape the little cap--I start to squirm and wiggle. I want out!
But, just like that pressure cooker requires a constant temperature and pressure to properly prepare a product--God knows the heat I need to prepare me.
Unlike that product in the pressure cooker-- I have the choice to get out of the "pot".
I can scream and yell and complain and God will lift the lid and out I can hop. And then because I love Him and I know He loves me--I then feel bad because the Holy Spirit convicts me. At times that can be worse than the pressure. :(
And I bow my head and turn back around and I bend my knee before the Father and He picks me up and puts me back in the pot.
But, just before He puts the lid back on He looks down and says, "Now Sharon this is going to be uncomfortable for awhile. But this is the quickest way to get to get you to the goal. Sit tight. Remember, I love you and I am watching the pressure and the heat. I promise not to take my eye off the pot or you. Remember the pressure will be the greatest just before you are finished."

Promise me that while I am in the pot you will pay no head to the sputtering and hissing. I will try not to complain as the pressure is building. Encourage me to stay in the pot and sit still. Remind me that the process will be finished so much faster under this great pressure.
Thank you in advance.

My promise?
When I hear you sputtering and hissing I will remind you to sit tight and stay in the pot------ because you will be finished soon too!
Romans 5:3-5
AMEN!

Lessons From The Pew

A pastor in our area made a statement-- and I think I have also heard it elsewhere--that really caught my attention.

That statement?
"There is more lying done by church members on Sunday morning
than almost any other time during the week"
. After a brief sanctimonious moment, I began to understand what he meant.
And he was right.
There have been many times on Sunday mornings, when life's circumstances are all I can think about. But, I do my duty and go to church and sit in the pew and sing the songs.
I think we have all been there.
As we got ready to sing one of the hymns before the sermon began, the song leader said a little something that went like this.

"I know that normally the song we are getting ready to sing is saved till the end of the service.
But I feel as if God is leading us to sing it now.
There may be things going on in your life right now that you really would like or need God to change. But do you think you could possibly go to God this morning and tell Him in all honesty- that if the situation never changes, you will still serve Him?
Serve Him even in the middle of the difficult circumstances."

And then we sang, I Surrender All.

All to Jesus I surrender
All to Him I freely give
I will ever love and trust him
In his presence daily live

CHORUS
I surrender all, I surrender all
All to Thee my blessed Savior
I surrender all

All to Jesus I surrender
At thy feet I humble bow
Worldly pleasures all forsaken
Take me, Jesus, Take me now

Repeat chorus

All to Jesus I surrender
Lord, I give myself to thee
Fill me with thy love and power
Let thy blessing fall on me

Repeat chorus

I surrender.
I surrender the right to my rights.
The right to live a life that is struggle free, a life that makes me a happy go lucky person.
I started thinking about Paul.
Paul, who was filled with joy in all circumstances.
Circumstances that he had learned to be content in.
I wonder if while he sat in that prison, chained to a Roman guard, if the Spirit in him over came the personality of the guard. Or if God kind of surrounded him in a protective balloon and the attitudes and action of the guard just bounced off him?I don't know the answer to that but I do know it was a learning process for Paul.

I am in a learning process.
I would love to have one of those balloons.
I think they are no longer in inventory. :)
I just know that one day I want the records in heaven to state that at this time in my life I surrendered to God and I learned to be a content overcomer.
And if I think about it--why would one need to learn to do something if the first time you attempted something you did it perfect every time.
I wonder how many times it took Paul before God perfected him in certain areas?
I do pray that it does not take too long for Him to teach me in this area
because I do not have any more nails to pick off. ;)
Always learning--never already "there".

What is your middle name?

Well, here is a new MEME.
Karen over at Karen's Ramblings has tagged me for this little
MEME on middle names.
What will they think of next? :)
So I am going to try and tie this in with what I did today.
My Middle name is LYNN.
Sharon Lynn, isn't that sweet?

OK, here are the rules:

"You have to post these rules on your blog.
Players, you must list one fact that is somehow relevant to your life for each letter of your middle name. If you do not have a middle name, choose one you would like to have. When tagged, write your own blog post containing your middle name facts. At the end, choose one person to tag for each letter of your middle name. Then leave them a comment telling them they have been tagged."

L----Lighthouses--love 'em and I bought the most incredible picture of one today. It is probably the first lighthouses thing I have bought in a year or so. When you see it you will see why I could not pass it up. I feel like the man in the picture. Can you see him?
Y----Yearning for something sweet and dense. So what did I do to satisfy this craving?
I made some beignets for breakfast. I have posted a picture of of them.
They were fantastic and I shall pay for them tomorrow morning on the scale.
N----Near lost my bill money shopping with my sister in law. :) Just kidding but I did do some shopping today. She loves to shop. Good thing she only comes over ever other week.
N----Needing a little time to myself. Yes, feeling a little closed in by my lack of time alone.
Need a little refueling.


Sooooooooooo, it is time to tag four lovely ladies.

First, since Nise from Thus Far The Lord Has Helped Me has been a little out of pocket since she has been out of town.
I think this would be a good way to get her in the game again.
Second, how about Halfmoon Girl from Shore Stories. She takes evening walks with bears so I think she ought to be brave enough to do this little MEME.
Third, I'm thinking maybe Cindy from Still His Girl. She comes up with some pretty interesting thinds like locking her family downstairs while she has women's night.
And for the fourth, let's see if we can't get Holly from CrownLaidDown. She is usually reluctant to get involved with these little things. But we will allow her to include some life lessons if she would like to. How bought it Holly?

What's in a name

There have been times I wanted to know that I was seen. That there was something special about me. Admit it--we have all felt that way at one time or another. That is why I think the little awards we pass around are nice--they remind us we are seen and are special. We know that we are seen by God and we are special to Him and even so-- sometimes it is nice to have a little human reminder. Maybe God was the one to nudge the person to start the little award circulating? Possibly because He knew we would be needing a little pat? He thinks we are special and He is not going to change His mind. My devotion this morning was about the special meaning of names. We remember in the OT that names had a purpose and stated something about the direction or purpose of a persons life. Do you think our names say something special about us? I don't know about you but my name came from a line of maternity clothing. Hmmmm, guess God had something in mind when He led Mom to that maternity dress. :) Here is the meaning of my name as found on Behind The Name.

SHARON

Gender: Feminine & Masculine Usage: English, Biblical Other Scripts: שָׁרוֹן (Hebrew) Pronounced: SHER-un [key]

From an Old Testament place name meaning "plain" in Hebrew, referring to a fertile plain near the coast of Israel. This is also the name of a type of flowering shrub, the rose of Sh

Hmmmmm, a key to my future?
At least it did not say plane. :)
Here is the devotional if you have time to read it--it was pretty good.

Calling by Name
TGIF Today God Is First, by Os Hillman

These were the chiefs among Esau's descendants: The sons of Eliphaz the firstborn of Esau: Chiefs Teman, Omar, Zepho, Kenaz. - Genesis 36:15

God is big on giving meaning to names. Names often are specific indicators of God's plans and purposes for that individual. A young boy grew up as Moses' servant. His Hebrew name, Hoshea, means "salvation." As the lad grew, Moses could see that he had a "different spirit" from the rest of the Hebrew men. He was selected to be one of the 12 men whom Moses chose to spy out the land of Canaan. Before the expedition, Hoshea was given a new name by Moses-Joshua, which means "the Lord saves." Joshua became the new leader of Israel who would lead them into the Promised Land. He would, in fact, save an entire nation.

In my own journey I had learned that God gave me a name that had something to do with my future call from Him. I was 44 years old and had just gone through two of the most difficult years of my life. During that time, God brought a man into my life who discipled me in areas where I had never been trained. I was discovering many new spiritual truths about myself and Christians in the workplace. I came to identify with the struggles of Esau and Joseph in their desire to understand their own birthrights. I began to write about these discoveries to help other workplace believers understand their own callings through business. One morning on a weekend getaway in the mountains, my friend looked at me and said, "Do you know the meaning of 'Omar'?"

Omar is my first name. My real name is Omar Smallwood Hillman III. Dr. Smallwood had delivered my grandfather. No one, not even my mother, knew the origin of "Omar." They put the "O" and the "S" together to call me "Os."

"You need to know the meaning of 'Omar.' It has something to do with your future," said my friend.

Startled by his assertion, that night I looked up the name of "Omar" on a computer program. Here is what I found:

Arabic for "first son" and "disciple," Hebrew for "gifted speaker," and German for "famous." Rooted in the Middle East, this name is rarely used in the West. Omar was the grandson of Esau. [http://www2.parentsoup.com/babynames/baby/o.html ] (didn't work for me)

I was shocked. I had just completed 300 pages of material on the relationship of Christian businessmen to the life of Esau. My friend quickly concluded that God had called me to free Christian businessmen and women from the "Esau life." And He had allowed me to receive a name that related to the person of Esau. It was the closest thing to a burning bush experience I'd ever had. Could the Lord be this personal with us? Yes, Matthew 10:30 tells us He knows the very hairs of our head.


Does our name hold our purpose or plan for our life? His name does. Like Father like Child.

A Fall Give Away

I found out about this little give away from one of my girls, and I just had to pass it on.
If you would like to have a beautiful pencil drawing of one of your loved ones, then you must go check out the drawing that will take place on September the 22nd.
Yes, September is special and not just because I was born this month! :)
So-----go check out Carrie and sign in.
Then go and leave a little something on your blog about the fun fall give away.
A sample of her work above.
How fantastic it that!
So....Go! Go! Go!--to the blog below.
Organized Choas

You Make Me Smile

I want to thank Denise- over a Shortybears Place for this beautiful little gift. She is a new blogger for me in the recent months. I got to know her on Thankful Thursdays and have been inspired by her faith and her walk. She has been walking through some rough health issues but she has kept a positive perspective. She leaves little encouraging notes in my comment column and you know how we all love that. So, she makes me smile. Thank you Denise so much for this little award. I love that someone might leave my blog smiling and a little encouraged. Here is a little info about this award before I pass it on. :)


This is what the person that created this award says about it- the thing that I love most about blogging is that I learn so much about a person just by reading their blog. I have met MANY wonderful people with wonderful stories to tell,and I am grateful every day for each person that I have the pleasure of crossing paths in life with.I wanted to create something special for the top ten people who have inspired me through their blogging; the stories they tell, and the lives that they lead with grace and dignity. I visit their blogs for inspiration and encouragement.Although there are MANY people I want to give this award to at this very moment, I am going to choose ten bloggers:
Please grab your badge and wear it(with a smile) proudly, and pass it on because you inspire and encourage me, thank you.
So, now it is my turn to pass it on.

Here are the ten bloggers I choose:
I love that I get to pick TEN!
Of course that is not enough but it is better than 5.

1. Melanie of MenlanieJoy
2. Melanie of Our Happy Happenings
3. Halfmoon girl of Shore Stories
4. Holly of CrownLaidDown
5. Cindy of Still His Girl
6. Karen of Karen's Ramblings
7. Nicki of Three Girly Girls
8. Susan of Sunny Susan
9. Jenny at Life is Not a Cereal
10. Deena of Wholly Devoted


Now I have picked the ones who I know will pass it on. These get around and everyone will be sporting one soon.
Pass the fun girls!
How many times do we as women wish for a little pat on the back?
This is a pat--PASS A PAT!

Thankful Thursday

I missed ya'll last week
so just to make sure I got in----- I am doing this post on Wednesday night.

What am I thankful for this week?
Well, first I am thankful that when I am down--my hubby now does a good job picking up the slack. And, not only did he pick up the slack, but he spent a little extra time taking care of me.

I am thankful for the rough road that I have been walking spiritually. That means that God is at work and the finished product is getting closer to perfection.
Nope, I hasn't been achieved yet--but it is coming. So, if you hear some moaning and groaning coming from these pages-- it is just because there is a little spiritual plastic surgery taking place.
And the funny thing is that I am not going for a younger look
but I am looking forward to looking a little more mature. :) \o/

I am thankful for my sistas that have so encourage my heart.
It does me good to see that there are other women who want to go beyond the surface and what many Christians think of as "enough". I will NEVER have enough when it comes to GOD.
He comes to fill my cup and as quickly as He fills it up- I want to pour it out to another. Then I get to go back for seconds and thirds and the good thing-- I don't have to worry about how it is going to change my waist line. Like a child who has found the source of free candy-I will never get enough of Him.

I am thankful that we are moving forward with getting our property ready to sell.
I thank God that He already has a buyer selected and the price has been set.
I thank Him that our new to us home is being prepared and it will be all that we need.

I thank God that He is not limited to the Bible when it comes to speaking to us.
He has been using a Christian novel to open my heart to where He is taking me and what His Spirit is capable of.
Yahoojah!
God is good all the time!

For more Thankful Thursday go over and check out Iris
and the other women who are sharing their thankful hearts.

Walking In A Different Dimension

I just had to share this this morning. It was so good. No, it is not from Mr Chambers, so relax!;]
Lately in my life there have been plenty of opportunities for me to stand up for myself because of injustices. Times when I wanted to give someone the wagging finger. You know-in their face and make them feel really bad for the way they were acting. They were wrong after all.
And then God sweetly reminds me that that is not my job.
I am not called to be the Holy Spirit.
(Not the first time He has had to remind me of this--maybe I am a slow learner?)
No, the individual is not my child.
I could tend-in my mind- to get all worked up in righteous anger and then push through to prove I am right. But God says, "Sharon, just love. Don't say a word. Just love.". And often I am tempted to say, "Lord, but..............".
The truth I have learned through many trials is that if i am the one who convicts someone of their actions--the change does not last.
My human power is no match for His changing power.
DUH!
So, before I lull you to sleep, here is the thing I wanted to post.
Ya'll are so patient with me--Thank you!

Will You Enter?
TGIF Today God Is First, by Os Hillman

Then Moses raised his arm and struck the rock twice with his staff. - Numbers 20:11a

Will you fulfill the destiny God has for your life? Perhaps you have never thought about it. God had a perfect plan for Moses to lead the people out of Egypt and into the Promised Land. It's been said the hardest place to score a touchdown is from the goal line. You're almost there. But there is something about crossing over that makes those last few yards the most difficult. Moses failed at the goal line, and it prevented him from finishing well a glorious life of service for God.

The people of Israel were complaining that they did not have water to drink. It was another of many tests for Israel. Moses inquired of God and God said, "...Speak to that rock before their eyes and it will pour out its water" (Num. 20:8a). Moses, in his frustration and anger with the people, began to act on his own and made a strategic mistake. Instead of speaking to the rock, he struck the rock twice with his staff. In spite of his disobedience, the rock poured forth water.

God was calling Moses to a different dimension. Moses was to use his words to speak the miracle. However, he not only lost his temper, but he also took credit and dishonored God. He used his staff, the symbol of his work life as a shepherd, to force the provision.

When we become callous, we can use our skills and abilities to force what we believe should happen. We take control. When we do this, we are in danger of failing to enter the Promised Land of blessing from God. Living in life's spiritual dimension requires patience and obedience. Beware of solving problems in your own strength. God wants to bring you into the Promised Land of His blessing. But it will require walking in the spiritual dimension.


Lord, shut my mouth and just let me love today.

In regard to last post

Well I see that I did not get too many responses to my last post.
It really threw me for a loop this morning. You know those times you read scripture and it hits you like a ton of bricks?
That is how it hit me this morning. I could not get past it.
So I asked for a little help. Thank you to those who responded--or tried to.
Most times my devotions by Mr Chambers are tough but I don't know that I have ever read something that I thought might be a little off. I have been reading these for years and this never hit me before. Maybe it is where I am right now. Dealing with those who seem unloving and critical and it is bugging the heck out of me.
I tried to catch Mom at home to see what her old version of this day said-- but I could not catch her. Mine is an edited updated version since my old one took on a little of my morning coffee a year or two ago.

So these are my thoughts on the following statement.
"Notice the kind of people that God brings around you, and you will be humiliated once you realize that this is actually His way of revealing to you the kind of person you have been to Him."

Do you know the scripture that says basically-Don't try and take the splinter out of someone else's eye when you have a log in your own?
There have been many times when something about someone has driven me crazy. It glares at me and I can't seem to be around them without thinking about it.
And I am not talking about nit picky stuff. Maybe they are not patient or they don't have a thankful heart or maybe they have an uncontrollable temper.
In the past I would have become lost in a judgmental attitude. But God began to deal with me about this by turning my thoughts about another ---on myself.
I would see someone in their "problem" and as soon as my mind began to -go there-God would yank my chain. It might have sounded something like this.
"Sharon, do you remember the time when I blessed you and you didn't even recognize me. Not only that, you just thought it was good fortune. Did I think ugly thoughts about you? No, I just knew that one day you would see the events for what they were and I loved you through it."
Hmmmmm.
So-- God sent people my way, not necessarily to rub my nose in it, but to keep me humble and to teach me to pray. Pray for those who are getting ready to have to walk the same path that I walked. Sometimes those paths were pretty painful. How cool would it have been then to know that someone who had been there ---understood where I was and instead of judging me,
they prayed for me?
Those people are not sinning against me anyway. Remember David saying, Against You and You only have I sinned oh Lord.

If God is bringing people around you that make you really uncomfortable--take a look back.
Maybe you are far enough down the road spiritually that you need a reminder of who you were. And then when you remember-- thank Him for His grace and mercy.
And then pray for the one who has become the object of your focus.

Dealing with the ungrateful, irritating, angry, lazy, irrational, prideful people?
Don't forget to remember when.
And then as one who has been there--pray hard in love for those who are traveling
the road you traveled.

Does that sound like a legit explanation?
A little wordy but maybe it works. :)

Opportunities/Thinking

This is my devotion for this morning. I have a question abouts its true meaning. It is from my devotional by Oswald Chambers. As you will see he steps on my toes almost everyday.

Ministering in Everyday Opportunities.
Ministering in everyday opportunities that surround us does not mean that we select our own surroundings--it means being God's very special choice to be available for use in any of the seemingly random surroundings which He has engineered for us. The very character we exhibit in our present surrounding is an indication of what we will be like in other surrounding.
The things Jesus did were the most menial of everyday tasks, and this is an indication that it takes all of God's power in me to accomplish even the most common tasks in His way. Can I use a towel as He did? Towels, dishes, sandals, and all the other ordinary things in our lives reveal what we are made of more quickly than anything else. It takes God Almighty Incarnate in us to do the most menial duty as it ought to be done.
Jesus said, "I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you". Notice the kind of people that God brings around you, and you will be humiliated once you realize that this is actually His way of revealing to you the kind of person you have been to Him. Now He says we should exhibit to those around us exactly what He has exhibited to us.
Do you find yourself responding by saying, "Oh, I will do all that once I'm out on the mission field"? Talking in this way is like trying to produce the weapons of war while in the trenches of the battle field--you will be killed while trying to do it.
We have to go the "second mile" with God (see Matthew 5:41). Yet some of us become worn out in the first ten steps. Then we say, "Well, I'll just wait until I get closer to the next beg crisis in my life. " But if we do not steadily minister in everyday opportunities, we will do nothing when the crisis comes.

This is the statement that hit me hard.

"Notice the kind of people that God brings around you, and you will be humiliated once you realize that this is actually His way of revealing to you the kind of person you have been to Him."

Somebody please explain what this statement means to them. I tend to be an over thinker.
Please, tell me what you thought when you read this.
Thank you!

Commitment

I have not been able to figure out what to write
since nothing exciting has been going on.
Saturday and Sunday I spent the day in bed since it is now migraine season for me.
Today I was up and active but alas I am not feeling witty or wise.
I spent some time with God today and I was left with a needy yearning for something more.
Something finished and perfected.
Yearning.

Here is a little something from an email I was sent.
I thought it was good.
And if you happen to come back tomorrow--maybe I will be feeling witty and wise. :)
I highlighted below what struck me and I feel to be true of me.

COMMITMENT

author unknown

I'm part of the fellowship of the unashamed.

I have stepped over the line.

The decision has been made.

I'm a disciple of Jesus Christ.

I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still.

My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, my future is secure.

I'm finished and done with low living, sight walking, small planning,

smooth knees, colorless dreams, tamed visions, mundane talking,

cheap living, and dwarfed goals.

I no longer need preeminence, prosperity, position, promotions, plaudits, or popularity.

I don't have to be right, first, tops, recognized, praised, regarded, or rewarded.

I now live by faith, lean on His presence, walk by patience, lift by prayer, and labor by power.

My face is set, my gait is fast, my goal is heaven, my road is narrow,

my way rough, my companions few, my Guide reliable, my mission clear.

I cannot be bought, deluded, or delayed.

I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of the adversary,

negotiate at the table of the enemy, or meander in the maze of mediocrity.

I won't give up, shut up, let up,

until I have stayed up, stored up, prayed up, paid up, preached up for the cause of Christ.

I am a disciple of Jesus.

I must go till He comes, give till I drop, preach till all know, and work till He stops me.

And when He comes for His own, He will have no problem recognizing me - my banner will be clear!



I WILL NOT TURN BACK

Peaceful

Hey girls (yes, and the occasional guy) just wanted to say Hi and let you know I was thinking about you. Have you ever thought that when you pull up one of your girls blogs and there is another new post--they were thinking about you? It's true.
We get ideas and we want to share--share with you.
Maybe we are having a hard time and we know YOU will think of us and stop by, listen and care.
That should make us all feel a little more needed and not so alone.
Maybe you don't feel alone but you just need to know someone was thinking about you--well here is proof.
This is my way of sharing me--with you. Me thinking about you.
You are special and I am thankful for each of your personalities and how you
add to my life.
Alright enough of the mushy stuff --someone might just start to believe I have the gift of mercy. :)

Today we hit the floor running. Last night Keith's fuel pump went out on the way home and I had to go tow him home. He thanked me for coming to pick him up--like I had an option in the matter. Can you imagine saying, Ummm dear, I just don't really feel like getting out. It's late and dark and you'll just have to stay parked in the middle of the road.

But, I will take the "thank you" because I did do it with a good attitude. Even though I had to sit and wait while he had to chat with the policemen who stopped to check us out. He knew them, and girls, my hubby has the gift of gab. Yes, I know that is usually the woman's role- but we have a little role reversal in our house.

So this morning was time to take Paw Paw to see granny at the nursing home. Usually I
stay during their visit but this time I decided to go have a little retail therapy. It is a small town and there is not much of a choice so I stopped at a clothing store and bought one shirt that was on sale for $5 bucks. Yes, I am a big spender.
Then it was time to pick Paw Paw up and we went and ate lunch.
Fried Catfish. Seem to be eating a lot more fried food lately--gonna have to watch that.
Then it was time to head home and try and stay awake in the process.

Paw Paw and I don't have the gift of gab so our 45 minute ride is usually pretty quiet.
It gives me plenty of time to think.
This morning I was thinking about a post that I read last night by Karen.
I so enjoyed her post. The ability and heart she has in tapping into the things of heaven-it just really does my heart good. I have really enjoyed the girls God has introduced me to.
She did a post on Knots and how our lives can be compared to them. My mind lately could surely be compared to a pile of knots.
And sometimes I feel like I am sitting in the middle of the floor trying to find the end so that I can get things straightened out. Problem is-- they won't be straightened out.
Here is the portion of the post that hit me.

His love for this friend was shining out in this picture. His hand was reaching out to take the rope from her hands and all the 'knots' were becoming untangled and free as he took hold.

Today as I was riding down the road it hit me--He loves ME! It made me almost feel giddy.
Now you have to know that I know God loves me. Have for a long time.
But it was as if the finger of God came down out of heaven and touched me square between the eyes and -----I KNEW. It was personal. It was tender. It was a deeper revelation.
And I pictured that little girl on the floor surrounded and covered by all those knots looking up and seeing God right there--hands held out. And I reached down a picked up a pile and raised them to Him. In His hands they were no longer rough ropes twisted and knotted.

Several times today in my spirit I have lifted those knots to Him.
And each time, His hand has been there to take them.

Got Knots?
Here is the diffinition of knots-

1. To mix together or intertwine in a confused mass; snarl.
2. To involve in hampering or awkward complications; entangle.
3. To catch and hold in or as if in a net; entrap. See Synonyms at catch.

I do!
If you do too--
Give 'em to the Detangler.
And then you will feel peaceful too.

Ya just gotta love it

Just Call Me The Invisible Woman

There have been many times lately that I have asked Jesus to love an individual through me. Either I did not have it in me or I knew they needed what He had to give them-in a really bad way. :) I am not, by nature or gifting and overly affectionate person, I have to really think about being merciful most of the time. Kind of like--O.K ,I see the problem here is the answer lets go.
Pretty cut and dry most of the time. I do love deeply---it just does not come to the surface easily.

I could tend to get really down on myself or I can call out to God the giver of all good things and ask Him to touch another through me. That is really a good idea anyway because then they are being touched by something heavenly.
Today I got this devotional by Elisabeth Elliot and it so spoke to me. There are going to be those days when events or circumstances or people---try and set us up for failure. What kind of failure?
The failure of not loving your neighbor as yourself.

Here is the devotional--

Constructive Love

Today will be full of turmoil, for we are moving. Decisions to be made, complicated sorting and packing to be done, hard physical work, confusion and misunderstanding. I will be tempted to "manage" things which are not mine to manage, to be impatient and anxious and vindictive--I can see it coming! But there is a quiet, steadying power--the love of Christ, and "this love of which I speak is slow to lose patience, looks for a way of being constructive" (l Cor 13:4 JBP). It is not in me. That brand of love is not a part of my nature. So I simply ask for it. Lord, your love alone, at work in me, behaves like that.

Love through me, Love of God.
Make me like thy clear air
Through which, unhindered, colors pass
As if it were not there.
--(Amy Carmichael, Toward Jerusalem)

Don't you just love the little poem by Amy Carmichael? Love through me Lord like I was not even there. That is what I am asking for today. Erase whatever I would have to give them and replace it with the beauty of YOUR love.

Commercial break :)

Filled or Needy?

This morning I was able to catch Beth Moore on the Wednesday show she does on the James and Betty Robinson program-Life Today. I have heard her share before what she shared. But, it touches me every time I hear it. Are you empty? Have you held your need up to Him today?
He wants our neediness- so does Satan.
Fill our cups Lord so that then we have an over flow to share with others.
This is a little long--but if you haven't heard this story before please take the time to read it.
For those of you who do not know Beth Moore, she is an outstanding Bible teacher, writer of Bible studies, and is a married mother of two daughters.

This is one of her experiences:


April 20, 2005, at the Airport in Knoxville, waiting to board the plane, I had the Bible on my lap and was very intent upon what I was doing. I'd had a marvelous morning with the Lord. I say this because I want to tell you it is a scary thing to have the Spirit of God really working in you. You could end
up doing some things you never would have done otherwise. Life in the Spirit can be dangerous for a thousand reasons not the least of which is your ego. I tried to keep from staring, but he was such a strange sight. Humped over in a wheelchair, he was skin and bones, dressed in clothes that obviously fit
when he was at least twenty pounds heavier. His knees protruded from his trousers, and his shoulders looked like the coat hanger was still in his shirt. His hands looked like tangled masses of veins and bones. The strangest part of him was his hair and nails. Stringy, gray hair hung well over his shoulders and down
part of his back. His fingernails were long, clean but strangely out of place on an old man.
I looked down at my Bible as fast as I could, discomfort burning my face. As I tried to imagine what his story might have been, I found myself wondering if I'd just had a Howard Hughes sighting. Then, I remembered that he was dead. So this man in the airport...an impersonator maybe? Was a camera on us somewhere? There I sat; trying to concentrate on the Word to keep from being concerned about a thin slice of humanity served on a wheelchair only a few seats from me. All the while, my heart was growing more and more overwhelmed with a feeling for him. Let's admit it. Curiosity is a heap more comfortable than true concern, and suddenly I was awash with aching emotion for this bizarre-looking old man. I had walked with God long enough to see the handwriting on the wall. I've learned that when I begin to feel what God feels, something so contrary to my natural feelings, something dramatic is bound to happen. And it may be
embarrassing. I immediately began to resist because I could feel God working on my spirit and I started arguing with God in my mind. "Oh, no, God, please, no." I looked up at the ceiling as if I could stare straight through it into heaven and said, "Don't make me witness to this man. Not right here and now. Please. I'll do
anything. Put me on the same plane, but don't make me get up here and witness to this man in front of this gawking audience. Please, Lord!" There I sat in the blue vinyl chair begging His Highness, "Please don't
make me witness to this man. Not now. I'll do it on the plane." Then I heard it... "I don't want you to witness to him. I want you to brush his hair." The words were so clear, my heart leapt into my throat, and my thoughts spun like a top. Do I witness to the man or brush his hair? No-brainier. I looked straight back up at the ceiling and said, "God, as I live and breathe, I want you to know I am ready to witness to this man. I'm on this Lord. I'm your girl! You've never seen a woman witness to a man faster in your life. What difference does it make if his hair is a mess if he is not redeemed? I am going to witness to this man." Again as clearly as I've ever heard an audible word, God seemed to write this statement across the wall of my mind. "That is not what I said, Beth. I don't want you to witness to him. I want you to go brush his hair." I looked up at God and quipped, "I don't have a hairbrush. It's in my suitcase on the plane. How am I supposed to brush
his hair without a hairbrush?" God was so insistent that I almost involuntarily began to walk toward him as these thoughts came to me from God's word: "I will thoroughly furnish you unto all good works." (2 Timothy 3:17) I stumbled over to the wheelchair thinking I could use one myself. Even as I retell this story, my pulse quickens and I feel those same butterflies. I knelt down in front of the man and asked as demurely as possible, "Sir, may I have the pleasure of brushing your hair?" He looked back at me and said,
"What did you say?" "May I have the pleasure of brushing your hair?" To which he responded in volume ten, "Little lady, if you expect me to hear you, you're going to have to talk louder than that." At this point, I took a deep breath and blurted out, "SIR, MAY I HAVE THE PLEASURE OF BRUSHING YOUR HAIR?" At which point every eye in the place darted right at me. I was the only thing in the room looking more peculiar than old Mr. Longlocks. Face crimson and forehead breaking out in a sweat, I watched him look up at me with absolute shock on his face, and say, "If you really want to." Are you kidding? Of course I didn't want to. But God didn't seem interested in my personal preference right about then. He pressed on my heart until I could utter the words, "Yes, sir, I would be pleased. But I have one little problem. I
don't have a hairbrush." "I have one in my bag," he responded. I went around to the back of that wheelchair, and I got on my hands and knees and unzipped the stranger's old carry-on, hardly believing what I was
doing. I stood up and started brushing the old man's hair. It was perfectly clean, but it was tangled and matted. I don't do many things well, but must admit I've had notable experience untangling knotted hair mothering two little girls.
Like I'd done with either Amanda or Melissa in such a condition, I began brushing at the very bottom of the strands, remembering to take my time not to pull. A miraculous thing happened to me as I started brushing that old man's hair. Everybody else in the room disappeared. There was no one alive for those moments except that old man and me. I brushed and I brushed and I brushed until every tangle was out of that hair. I know this sounds so strange, but I've never felt that kind of love for another soul in my entire life. I believe with all my heart, I - for that few minutes - felt a portion of the very love of God. That He had overtaken my heart for a little while like someone renting a room and making Himself at home for a short while. The motions were so strong and so pure that I knew they had to be God's. His hair was finally as soft and
smooth as an infant's. I slipped the brush back in the bag and went around the chair to face him. I got back down on my knees, put my hands on his knees and said, "Sir, do you know my Jesus?" He said, "Yes, I do."
Well, that figures, I thought. He explained, "I've known Him since I married my bride. She wouldn't marry me until I got to know the Savior." He said, "You see, the problem is, I haven't seen my bride in months. I've had open-heart surgery, and she's been too ill to come see me. I was sitting here thinking to myself, what a mess I must be for my bride." Only God knows how often He allows us to be part of a divine moment when
we're completely unaware of the significance. This, on the other hand, was one of those rare encounters when I knew God had intervened in details only He could have known. It was a God moment, and I'll never forget it. Our time came to board, and we were not on the same plane. I was deeply ashamed of how I'd acted earlier and would have been so proud to have accompanied him on that aircraft. I still had a few minutes, and as I gathered my things to board, the airline hostess returned from the corridor, tears streaming down her cheeks.
She said, "That old man's sitting on the plane, sobbing. Why did you do that? What made you do that?" I said, "Do you know Jesus? He can be the bossiest thing!" And we got to share. I learned something about God that day. He knows if you're exhausted, you're hungry, you're serving in the wrong place or it is time to move on but you feel too responsible to budge. He knows if you're hurting or feeling rejected. He knows if you're sick or drowning under a wave of temptation. Or He knows if you just need your hair brushed. He sees you as an individual. Tell Him your need! I got on my own flight, sobs choking my throat, wondering how many opportunities just like that one had I missed along the way. . . all because I didn't want people to think I was strange. God didn't send me to that old man. He sent that old man to me. John 1:14 "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth." Life shouldn't be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, but rather, to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly shouting, "Wow! What a ride! Thank You, Lord!"
Be Blessed!
If HE brings you to it, HE will see you through it.

Does it ring true?

If you know the truths but they are not the center of your life--they won't ring true
in everyday life.

THE BELL
I KNOW WHO I AM
I am God's child (John 1:12)
I am Christ's friend (John 15:15)
I am united with the Lord (1 Cor. 6:17)
I am bought with a price (1 Cor. 6:19-20)
I am a saint (set apart for God). (Eph. 1:1)
I am a personal witness of Christ (Acts 1:8)
I am the salt & light of the earth (Matt.5:13-14)---my life is not bland it is full flavored!
I am a member of the body of Christ (1 Cor 12:27)--In the natural, I am never alone here on earth.
I am free forever from condemnation ( Rom. 8: 1-2)--Take that truth and chew on it. Then speak it.
I am a citizen of Heaven. I am significant (Phil.3:20)
I am free from any charge against me (Rom. 8:31-34)--Are you talking to me Satan? I don't think so!
I am a minister of reconciliation for God(2 Cor.5:17-21)
I have access to God through the Holy Spirit (Eph. 2:18)
I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realms (Eph. 2:6)--No Worry!
I cannot be separated from the love of God (Rom.8:35-39)
I am established, anointed, sealed by God (2 Cor.1:21-22)
I am assured all things work together for good (Rom. 8: 28)
I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit (John 15:16)
I may approach God with freedom and confidence (Eph. 3: 12)
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Phil.4:13)
I am the branch of the true vine, a channel of His life (John15:1-5)
I am God's temple (1 Cor. 3: 16). I am complete in Christ (Col.2:10)
I am hidden with Christ in God (Col. 3:3). I have been justified (Romans 5:1)
I am God's co-worker (1 Cor. 3:9; 2 Cor 6:1). I am God's workmanship (Eph. 2:10)
I am confident that the good works God has begun in me will be perfected (Phil. 1: 5)--He is working!
I have been redeemed and forgiven (Col. 1:14). I have been adopted as God's child (Eph1:5)


I belong to God. Do you know who you are!?

THE BELL
I KNOW WHO I AM
I am God's child (John 1:12)
I am Christ's friend (John 15:15)
I am united with the Lord (1 Cor. 6:17)
I am bought with a price (1 Cor. 6:19-20)
I am a saint (set apart for God). (Eph. 1:1)
I am a personal witness of Christ (Acts 1:8)
I am the salt & light of the earth (Matt.5:13-14)
I am a member of the body of Christ (1 Cor 12:27)
I am free forever from condemnation ( Rom. 8: 1-2)
I am a citizen of Heaven. I am significant (Phil.3:20)
I am free from any charge against me (Rom. 8:31-34)
I am a minister of reconciliation for God(2 Cor.5:17-21)
I have access to God through the Holy Spirit (Eph. 2:18)
I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realms (Eph. 2:6)
I cannot be separated from the love of God (Rom.8:35-39)
I am established, anointed, sealed by God (2 Cor.1:21-22)
I am assured all things work together for good (Rom. 8: 28)
I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit (John 15:16)
I may approach God with freedom and confidence (Eph. 3: 12)
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Phil.4:13)
I am the branch of the true vine, a channel of His life (John15:1-5)
I am God's temple (1 Cor. 3: 16). I am complete in Christ (Col.2:10)
I am hidden with Christ in God (Col. 3:3). I have been justified (Romans 5:1)
I am God's co-worker (1 Cor. 3:9; 2 Cor 6:1). I am God's workmanship (Eph. 2:10)
I am confident that the good works God has begun in me will be perfected (Phil. 1: 5)
I have been redeemed and forgiven (Col. 1:14). I have been adopted as God's child (Eph1:5)


I belong to God. Do you know who you are!?

Boy oh Boy!

I am getting here late again today. Seems to be the story lately. I was up before light today to get to the hospital because one of my girls was having a baby.
She is doing great and so is the little boy. Eight pounds, 11 oz and 21 inches long I believe. I thank God they are doing fine. And can I say I am glad she is the one going home with a little one and not me! Did that sound bad? I am in the stage of my life where
I love to hold them and then give em back. \0/
But, he is beautiful and I am glad he is here. Mister Samuel Jordan is a sweet addition to their family. His big brother and sister are ready to help Mom do the dishes so she can get some rest. :)


Signing all the necessary papers. And below we were guessing on the size of the baby. Sorry to say the Baby was not 25 pounds like she had hoped for. :)

Proof that I was there since I am not in any other the other pictures
since I was behind the camera. And, yes, it was freezing so I had a jacket on.

Samuel Jordan Menne

All is well

Yesterday was a pretty good day. Today has been good too-- but I want to talk about yesterday.
One the way to church I spent some time praying and listening to my new Casting Crown CD. I had been listening to it all week but it had not really sunk in. On the way to church I felt my spirit start to soften. I began to tell Jesus how much I needed Him and how I loved Him. In my minds eye I walked up to Him and laid my forehead on His chest. I expected Him to wrap His arms around me and just hold me but that was not what happened. Instead He placed His hands on either side of my head covering my ears. He then spoke quietly and said, "Now whatever gets into your head will have to come through the holes in my hands".
My heart soared!
He is my protector! The one who cares when my mind is worn out from the constant onslaught from our enemy. We will see what happens this week as the attack tries to rear it's ugly head.
I also had a peaceful time at church.
It was like I had walked in to a haven and satan could not follow. \o/
Thank God for times of rest!
After church we had a great business meeting. We were able to discuss some issues that will have some big ramifications for our little church should they take place. No one got upset and everyone was at unity. We will discuss the final decision at the end of the month I think.
It was great that we were all of one mind. And our pastor has called us to prayer and fast to see that it remains that way and we do only what God wants us to do.

Next we all adjourned to our house for a little birthday celebration for my pastor. The cake said he was over the hill--not I. We had a good time and plenty of food.
The kids enjoyed the pool and the adults enjoyed each other.
It is great to have family at home and at church.
I do love my church family.

I MUST HAVEN TAKEN THIS WHILE MOST OF THE KIDS WERE EATING
THE BIRTHDAY BOY!

I think the rivers stopped up

I have not had as much freedom to post lately.
I have found that what has been lingering in my heart is not nice and I don't want to share it. Kind of like when you have the flu and you are nice enough to stay home in bed
so others won't get sick.
That has been me lately feeling a little sick in my soul.
Not wanting to open my mouth because the attitude coming out is not patient and kind.
No way could you consider it tender or loving--so I avoid people so that they are not contaminated with my yuck.
I have been praying about this.
So many things flipping through my thoughts that I have a hard time getting a grip on it.
Part of my problem is my surroundings. I don't want to gossip so I am going to put this as nicely as possible. Some times you are around people who are negative and after awhile it starts to feel like sandpaper on you skin. You begin to think you know what they are thinking and then you get aggravated and they have not even said anything. It is in the air and it stinks.

So either in my fighting what is in my mind or just plain being aggravated-- I want to pitch a fit and say----LEAVE ME ALONE!

Now this is all right up Satan's alley.
He smirks in glee and one of God's warriors is tormented.
Tormented in my thoughts and not at peace.
I have been scouring the word--look for that special word that will erase these feeling that seem to control my mind. I need some peace. I can not stand feeling so ill at ease.
This morning Mr Chambers, was talking about a pure life that is a sweet sacrifice before the Lord. How He fills us up so that we can be then squeezed out for His purpose.
I'm thinking I'm in the pressing period. :(
There has been nothing sweet about the juice coming out of my grapes these past two weeks.
I think it just keeps getting more sour and more sour.
We are promised is that if we believe in Him out of our hearts will (glow-ops!) flow rivers of living water. (John 7:38)
I'm feeling a little like the dead sea at the moment. :(
But I am not content to stay here.
So pray for me please.
Ask God to do in me what needs to be done so that I can live in the home I live in
and still be at peace with the people I live with.
Thanks sistas.