But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.  We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.
(2 Corinthians 4:7-9)

We will not be crushed or destroyed.  Keep the faith......

I am a friend to all who fear you,
to all who follow your precepts.
(Psalm 119:63)

Although I have friends from all walks of life, my deepest bonds are with my Christian friends.  We share the foundation of Christ and with that foundation firmly in place, it's natural to build relationships to a deeper, richer level. 

Hear my cry for help,
my King and my God,
for to you I pray.
(Psalm 5:2)

My Awesome God will hear every cry and every prayer that I utter.  He may or may not answer it according to my agenda, but He will answer me according to His will.  In that, I will place my trust.

The eyes of the arrogant will be humbled
and human pride brought low;
the LORD alone will be exalted in that day.
(Isaiah 2:11)

Every good thing that I accomplish is not of my own doing..... it's a gift from God and should be performed to glorify God, not to gain a selfish pat on the back.  

Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
(Exodus 20:8)

I find myself being confused as to what is an acceptable activity on Sunday and what is unacceptable.  Recently, I read a quote from a commentary that Sunday should be "a welcomed rest in remembrance of God."  This gave me a little clarification about using Sundays for God honoring purposes.  I'm realistic enough to know that I'm not going to spend the entire day reading my Bible and/or praying.  That would certainly be God-honoring, but not practical for my personality and my nature.  I can make the effort not to shop, not to mow the yard, and not do those other chores that can be done on another day of the week. 
I'm going to quit over analyzing proper Sunday activities and just enjoy the day that God has blessed me with by honoring Him (as much as possible) with my thoughts and actions.....simple as that.

Lazy hands make for poverty,
but diligent hands bring wealth.
(Proverbs 10:4)

I'm having a lazy Saturday afternoon, in spite of a "to do" list that is a mile long.  Just looking up "lazy" scriptures has motivated me to post this and get moving!  I'm not trying to become wealthy in a monetary sense....I'm just trying to keep my humble home and yard in a respectable state of being.  This takes serious, regular efforts, but the efforts bring immediate, pleasing results.  God has made me shepherd of all that He has blessed me with and it's my responsibility to take care of things in a manner that shows my gratefulness.
I'm out of here........

Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?”
(Job 2:10)

I think I could write volumes of comments on this scripture, but basically, it's pretty simple.  God does not promise an easy life to anyone.  Smooth sailing is not part of His plan.  We will, at some point, have illnesses, mental and physical pain, loss of loved ones, and many other difficult, if not, horrible circumstances.  What He does promise is to love, help, and support us through all of these troubles. 

“Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”
(Mark 9:37)

Welcome the little children......After reading Heaven Is For Real, I have a better understanding of the open, innocent perspective that comes from a young mind that is not yet calloused and bent out of shape from worldly influences.  It's refreshing!

You will surely forget your trouble,
recalling it only as waters gone by.
Life will be brighter than noonday,
and darkness will become like morning.
(Job 11:16-17)

How wonderful to think that one day all of my troubles will be forgotten.....they will diminish and be replaced with bright, joyful days surrounded by God's love and grace.

When I said, “My foot is slipping,”
your unfailing love, LORD, supported me.
(Psalm 94:18)

I slip often....I slip spiritually, I slip physically.  Through it all, if I reach out to God, He hears my cry and helps to set my paths straight and even.

Isaac said, “I am now an old man and don’t know the day of my death.
(Genesis 27:2)

None of us know the day of our death and many never get to reach the days of old.  The obituaries are full of young people who didn't know that the day of their death would arrive so early in their lives.  God knows the exact day and minute of our death and gives us every chance to be spiritually prepared for that day.  Am I prepared....are you?

What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?
(Matthew 16:26)

This was one of the scriptures from the sermon this morning.  We were asked "what is your one thing," meaning what is your uppermost priority, the one thing that you value most.  Am I holding material possessions as my "one thing".....my relationships and friendships with others as my "one thing".... my family as my "one thing?"  Point being, it's all worthless in comparison to the "one thing" we have in God.

There are certainly times when my priorities are out of whack, but mostly, as I mature spiritually, God tops my list.  This helps me to put all of the other "one things" in their proper perspective, which makes me richer than I ever thought was possible! 

We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers.  We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
(1 Thessalonians 1:2-3)

This is for Patti, who continues to inspire me with her gentle, giving, loving soul.

You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised.
(Hebrews 10:36)

Whether we think we are making any headway or not, the Lord knows if we are making a serious attempt to walk in the right direction according to His will.  He will keep His promises if we persevere and do our part.  You can count on it! 

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,  not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
(Philippians 2:3-4)

As wonderful as it may seem to help others, the Lord asks that it be done with humility, not for the pat on the back or the kudos for our pride.  We sometimes find it hard to keep good works anonymous, but when possible, that is a very pleasing way to serve God.  Many times, it's simply impossible to be anonymous in your efforts.  Just make sure your motive is pure and God will be delighted with your service.

Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes.  Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.
(1 Peter 3:3-4)

What is beauty?  We live in a world that awards value and status to outward beauty and youth.  This saddens me.  I pray that I always look deeply into the heart of others, where their true beauty lies, and I hope that others offer me that same courtesy. 

“‘Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be Your name,
Your kingdom come,
Your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.’
(Matthew 9-13)

This is the prayer that we have all recited so many times that we have it memorized.  This is the prayer that I turn to in both good times and bad times.  It's my "go to" prayer.  Besides containing the most beautiful words, it brings back memories of comfort that have served me well throughout my life. 

But who can discern their own errors? Forgive my hidden faults.
(Psalm 19:12)

Sometimes pride gets in the way of honestly assessing my own behavior.  Maybe I just don't want to acknowledge or admit a particular fault.  With the help of the Lord's Word, I'm discovering traits that I never even considered to be faults.....   It's good that I'm learning to change certain behaviors and I'm grateful that God is willing to forgive those faults.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
(Joshua 1:9)

Although God was speaking to Joshua, He is also speaking to us, to everyone.  He is commanding us......commanding us..... to be strong and courageous.  If our faith is true, we will not fear or worry because we trust that everything is in God's hands and He will take care of things according to His will.  I struggle with this.  I do still worry....I do still fear.....I do still get discouraged.  I will say, that although I continue to have these doubtful traits, as I grow in my faith and trust in God, these traits are slowly diminishing.  And I'm thankful that my God is a patient God.....

 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
(1 Peter 5:8)

The devil may not appear in the literal form of a lion in my daily life, but he has the ability to hide behind many facades, wearing many disguises.  If I protect myself with the armour of God's Word, the devil will not be able to devour me with his schemes and plots.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight.
(Proverbs 3:5-6)

This morning, a young man at the checkout said "thanks for the inspiration."  I had no clue what he was talking about and then he pointed to the cover of my checkbook, which has the above scripture written on it.  You just never know when or where you'll have the opportunity to inspire someone with the Word of God.  I certainly wasn't trying to spread anything around but my money and for what ever reason, God wanted that young man to read this scripture today.  I'm humbled that He used me as a vessel! 

When I said, “My foot is slipping,”
your unfailing love, LORD, supported me.
(Psalm 94:18)

I slip a lot, both physically and spiritually.  I get off the path, I wander, I loose my way.  Isn't it wonderful to hold on to the word "unfailing?"  God gives us unfailing love and support every minute of every day and all we have to to is reach out to Him.  He's ready to pick us up, dust us off, and put us back on track.  Thank you, God, for never failing me!

Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name;
worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness.
(Psalm 29:2)

I just thought that this was a beautiful scripture, and one that gave me pause for thought.  Do I give God the glory?  After all, I'm nothing and can do nothing, without Him. 

Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them.
(Mark 4:15)

Our first day of an online Bible study started off a little bumpy.  Computer glitches, that kind of thing.  I don't know if Satan was trying to sabotage our study or not, but what I do know is that the attempts failed, and we were able to study God's word.  Satan did not take the Word away from us!

Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.
(2 Timothy 4:2)

Be prepared....this applies to scripture as well as any aspect of our lives.  If we are prepared, we increase our odds for success in every endeavor.  Preparation is key when speaking God's Word.  The Holy Spirit will help guide our words, but it is still up to us to prepare by reading and studying the Bible.  Although this preparation takes a little discipline, the rewards are priceless. 

Whoever spares the rod hates their children,
but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.
(Proverbs 12:24)

It was a little difficult to concentrate on the sermon this morning due to "distractions."  I think parents want to befriend their children instead of giving them boundaries and rules. This certainly doesn't help them to mature into thoughtful, responsible adults.  The day will come when you can befriend your child and not have to be the disciplinarian.  Until then, be a parent and teach them to conduct themselves properly.  Your efforts will not go unrewarded.

“As long as the earth endures, seed time and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease.”
(Genesis 8:22)

Although there are good and bad points about every season, God has promised to keep them under His control and safety.  I'm not fond of heat, but I know there is always relief on the horizon, both here on earth and in Heaven ever after. 

Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon.
(John 4:6)

Because Jesus came to us in human form, He fully understands every physical condition that we experience.  When I'm just beat and need a boost, I remind myself that Jesus tackled more physical challenges than I'll ever face and accepted them with grace and dignity. 

Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you;
therefore he will rise up to show you compassion.
For the LORD is a God of justice.
Blessed are all who wait for him!
(Isaiah 30:18)

I found this scripture last night and made a copy to hold in my hand today.....

I spent the morning in a courtroom, trying to be supportive as my friends addressed the young man that murdered their son.  It was heartwrenching.  I knew that it was going to be really rough on everyone involved and I also knew that our earthly justice was not going to be fair.  It wasn't.  By holding on to the Isaiah scripture, I had the faith and confidence to know that this young man will get the justice that he deserves when he stands before the God of all creation.  It gave me such a sense of peace, knowing that God had this all in His hands and would take care of the whole situation....it isn't for me, the families, or even the courtroom judge to make the final call.  That call belongs to God. 

Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up.
(Romans 15:2)

My neighbors have been a source of distress for most of the years that I have lived in my house.  In thirteen years, I have had about twelve months of peace in my home.  In spite of this, with each new neighbor that arrives, I'm trying to start off with a fresh slate, a fresh attitude, and not carry the wounds from neighbors past.  

This is easier said than done, but I know it's the behavior that would be pleasing to God.  With God's help and support, that's just what I'm going to do!

Guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day long.
(Psalm 25:5)

The more I study the Bible, the more I learn and the more hopeful my life becomes.  The Bible is the ultimate source of truth and I need to open my heart and my mind to listen to God, while putting my own "truth" behind me.  The only real truth is God's truth!

They charge like warriors;
they scale walls like soldiers.
They all march in line,
not swerving from their course.

(Joel 2:7) 

God Bless America!

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
(2 Timothy 4:7)

Indy 500 today....fast cars...fast race.....but only one winner.  I'm thankful that I'm a winner too, and it doesn't depend on my skills, or for that matter, anything else that requires special talents or good works.  I'm a winner simply because I believe, and for that, I'm humbled and grateful.

“Teach me, and I will be quiet;
show me where I have been wrong.
(Job 6:24)

I think of myself as being a quiet person, but that really only applies to an outward trait.  Inside my quiet personality is a mind racing at a mile a minute, not necessarily listening to anyone or anything except my own agenda. 

God wants me to quiet my mind in order for Him to be able to  teach me what He wants and needs me to know.  I must work on quieting my thoughts so that I'm able to receive God's will for me and that takes practice and a conscious effort to still my mind.  

This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord's people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.
(2 Corinthians 9:12)

We never really retire, do we?  Moses surely didn't!  We continue to serve in ways that are pleasing to God.  The little things that we do to serve are just as important as the bigger, life changing ways of serving.  The point is to be of service to all people, believers and non-believers, and give back to the One who served us all, Jesus Christ.  

Frustration is better than laughter,
because a sad face is good for the heart.
(Ecclesiastes 7:3)

This is kind of an odd scripture today, but I found myself very frustrated today for several different reasons.  Once the situations resolved themselves, I was much more appreciative of how nice it is when things go smoothly.  It was a good learning experience.....and a good lesson in patience.

So this is what the Sovereign LORD says:
“See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone,
a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation;
the one who relies on it
will never be stricken with panic.
(Isaiah 28:16)

As I watch the devastation of lives lost and homes destroyed by the tornados, I'm praying that the victims will rely on the only foundation that cannot be shaken, that of our Lord and Savior, as they grieve their losses and begin rebuilding their lives. 

Can you bring forth the constellations in their seasons
or lead out the Bear with its cubs?
Do you know the laws of the heavens?
Can you set up God’s dominion over the earth?

(Job 38:32-33)

 

My day was filled with the miracles of God's amazing creatures.  I was humbled to be able to observe three baby robins, mouths wide open, waiting for mama robin to bring dinner.  I also met a lost snapping turtle that will be returned to the river tonight.  He was crossing the road and as slow as he was creeping along, his chances of reaching the other side were slim.  Some people would look at a leathery, craggled turtle as not-so-pretty, but I just see the amazing, perfect creature that God created. 

 

God's creativity, especially when it comes to nature, is astounding!  He gave each of us a purpose, from the birds to the turtles and everything in between.  All we have to do is open our eyes to see the creatures of the world, each one of them unique and miraculous! 

In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
(Ephesians 6:16)

I like thinking of fighting off the devil with my mighty shield held high, deflecting those flaming arrows.  It's a visual reference that comes to mind when I'm being confronted with temptations and other obstacles put before me in my daily battles.  I may not be holding a real, material shield, but the shield that I am holding is much more powerful and stronger than any real shield could ever aspire to be!

At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan.  Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove.  And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”
(Mark 1:9-11)

We had an interesting sermon at church today about baptism....who?...how?....why?  We were directed to several scriptures for reference, only one is written above.  The debate is still out there over the "how," but scripture tells us that baptism is required as part of our salvation and that the baptism should be a submersion, not a sprinkling or other water gesture.  In the scripture above, Jesus comes up out of the water, clearly indicating that He was submerged.  The Greek word "baptizo", taken from the original Biblical writings, means submerge, drown, dunk.... again clearly indicating a submersion. 
For further scriptural references, here is a PDF link for "41 Reasons You Should Be Baptized."

 

No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful.  Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
(Hebrews 12:11)

The discipline of studying the Bible has become a pleasant ritual for me. It hasn't always been this way, as the Bible appeared to me as a book of complex mysteries that seemed too deep for my simple brain to process. However, the more I've studied the Bible, the easier it becomes, the more pleasant it becomes, and the more life changing it becomes. I now look forward to opening this amazing book and searching for scripture that offers me hope in all circumstances. The discipline and perseverance of Bible study reaps priceless rewards!

If you are new to Bible study, don't give up and don't get frustrated with yourself if you have trouble understanding the scripture. I'm not the sharpest crayon in the box and I have gained amazing insight, slowly but surely, by trusting God to open my mind to the scripture that fills my needs. The discipline of continued study will fill you with peace and understanding, one scriptural nugget at a time.

Your beginnings will seem humble, so prosperous will your future be.
(Job 8:7)

No matter what our living situation may be right now, our future will be blessed beyond anything our human minds can envision.  Everything will pale compared to our future with God!

Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit. (Philippians 2:3)

Don't we all want that pat on the back when we do something special? I think it's OK to respond with a gracious "thank you" when you have done something for someone, but we need to make sure that our motives behind the action were not for the reward of that pat on the back, but simply done for the benefit of the receiver. Most importantly, we need to forward the "thank you" to the Lord, who enabled us to do the action in the first place for His glory, and His glory alone.

Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
And what if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy
And what if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are Your mercies in disguise

Blessings
Lyrics by Laura Story

After hearing this song on the radio for several weeks, I finally found out who wrote and sang it from friends on Facebook. Only the last chorus is written above. The entire song is very comforting and uplifting, as it directs our "pity me" thoughts to the reality of hidden blessings. Just a lovely song!

Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,
(Acts 3:19)

Just like a cool shower after a long day of working in the yard refreshes and restores your body, true repentance will wash away your sins and give you a fresh slate of forgiveness.

You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.
(Matthew 7:5)

I'm not even going to explain or describe my behavior today, but hypocrite pretty well sums it up. Jesus was nowhere to be found in my thoughts and words this afternoon.

Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants.
(Deuteronomy 32:2)

It's raining today.....a beautiful, soft, all-day rain. It's been raining for most of April and now several days in May. Many people get tired of the rain, but I always find it cozy, comforting, and peaceful...my favorite kind of day.

Just as the spring rains quench the new season of plants, the Word quenches my thirst for God.

Blogger is still not working properly and I have no idea when it will be fixed. I've already missed one day of posting, so I need to continue with this blog, regardless of Blogger issues.

My soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning.

(Psalm 130:6)

I'm not good at waiting, as you can tell from my comment about waiting for Blogger to resolve their technical issues. But waiting anxiously for God is a good kind of waiting. One that is filled with hope, joy, delight, and anticipation. Waiting for God gives me the strength to tackle today, knowing that tomorrow will be filled with God's mercies and tenderness. I'm ready God....beam me up!

Posted: 12 May 2011 01:03 PM PDT
No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

( 1 Corinthians 10:13)


Temptations lurk around every corner and we have to keep our eyes open in order to even recognize some of them. Many are quite subtle. God equips us with whatever we need to resist the temptations, but my problem is that I may forget to ask for God's help. I know I can't go it alone. Through prayer, God will keep me strong and focused on the task at hand.


(Blogger will not let me change font size, so I'm publishing this anyway. I'll edit later if Blogger has the problem fixed.)
Blogger is still not working and was down for over 16 hours. When it came back on, this post was deleted. I'm reposting it, still without being able to edit and change fonts. I hope they get things straightened out soon, so that I can continue with a daily post.

Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God. Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin.

(Romans 3:19-20)

Today was my last day of BSF and the study of Isaiah. We are now dismissed for the summer break. BSF gives me worldly accountability. I'm always accountable to God, and I know that, but it helps me to have friends in my daily life that keep me grounded in scripture.

I will miss my weekly BSF meeting and the discussions with my BSF small group, but I'll keep myself accountable with continued Bible study, as well as this simple little blog that leads me back to the Bible to search for a daily scripture or thought that helps me stay in the Word. I may have a summer break from BSF, but I don't ever want a break from seeking God's word.

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
(Matthew 6:34)

A beautiful concept....but one that I fail miserably. And I'm fully aware that worrying about tomorrow ruins the joy found today. So many things are out of my hands anyway, so why worry? I know the answer..... my faith isn't strong enough for me to turn it all over to God and trust that He will take care of it for me. And even if the worst happens tomorrow, God will be there to help me through the trials.

Alfred E Neuman had it right..."What, me worry?" I need a pinch of Alfred's attitude combined with a whole bunch of faith in God's protection and plan for my life!

When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone, but the righteous stand firm forever.
(Proverbs 10:25)

If we trust and obey God's commands, He will keep us firmly planted during the storms of life.

Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.
(Proverbs 1:8)

Both of my parents were wonderful life coaches. I may not have realized it at the time, but they had my very best interest at heart with each lesson taught. On this Mother's Day, I send a special thank you to my Mom, who is missed a little more each day.

Joy is not jolliness. Joy is perfect acquiescence in God's will because the soul delights itself in God Himself.
H. W. Webb-Peploe

Webster's dictionary says that joy is the "source of happiness." In my book, that means that joy is a synonym for God!

Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his tabernacle will I sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the LORD.
(Psalm 27:6)

The Lord will take care of our enemies in His own way and in His own time. It may or may not coincide with our own agenda, but we must trust that everything is in God's capable control and justice will be served.

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
(James 1:5)

I don't think "wise" is a word that someone would use to describe me, yet I'm very guilty of not turning to God for the wisdom that I may need in certain circumstances. He is always there, waiting and wanting us to turn to Him for all of our needs, including wisdom. I need to tap the amazing resources that God provides, knowing that He will not find fault with me, but will gladly guide and direct my paths.

God sets the lonely in families..
(Psalm 68:6a)

But what is a family? I've come to learn that family can be anyone that God brings into my life to help support and love me. My immediate family is no longer living on earth, yet I still have many people in my life that I consider to be my family. We may not have a blood connection, but it simply doesn't matter. They are my family and I love them as if we had shared parents and memories of days gone by. We make new memories, we share new stories, we support each other during tough times and we laugh with each other through the best of times. Family is what and who you make of it. :)

Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
(Hebrews 13:5)

Hebrews is such a wonderful book of scripture. Many practical, applicable words of wisdom. I find that the more I immerse myself in the teachings of the Bible, the less "deprived" I feel. I may not have much in this financially dependant, materialistic world, but I'm extremely blessed and quite satisfied with what I do have. Thank you, God, for providing a rich, abundant life that has absolutely nothing to do with possessions and money!

Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.
(Hebrews 12:14)

The peace-makers are those who are at peace with God and who show that they are truly children of God by striving to use every opportunity open to them to effect reconciliation between others who are at variance.
R. V. G. Tasker

Bin Laden is dead but evil will thrive until the day the Lord throws Satan into the lake of fire.

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
(2 Timothy 3:16-17)

The Bible is not an old fashioned, outdated book designated to sit on the top shelf of the bookcase gathering dust. It's a living, vital, applicable resource for living in today's world. I'm blessed that I can open its' sacred pages whenever I want practical living lessons to guide and direct my thoughts and actions. What a gift!

But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.

(Hebrews 3:13)

I know that God is our biggest, best, and most powerful supporter, but we also need the added support of Christian friends to help us get through life's ups and downs. I'm so thankful that God agrees with me and has placed some amazing friends in my life! My Christian friends rock!

...as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will your God rejoice over you.

(Isaiah 62:5b)

The Royal wedding took place this morning and I was able to catch a few minutes of the festivities while getting ready to leave the house. The bride and groom looked at one another with pure joy and delight.

God looks at us with that joy too. He loves us in spite of ourselves and we can be His bride everyday. The Royal couple may loose some of their wedding day joys as the reality of life sets in but God's love and joy for us will never diminish.

For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man, in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit.
(Romans 8:3-4)

For whatever reason, I was looking at all of the dandelions in my yard today and thinking of them as worldly sins. (Yes, this sounds a bit odd.) I was telling a friend about the yard treatments that I apply and things that I do to take care of my yard when she said, "your yard must look pretty good." Well, it doesn't and the reason is because I'm the only one in my area that applies yard treatments to prevent the weeds and dandelions. No matter what I do to my own yard, I'm going to get dandelions from the neighbors. I'm surrounded by their dandelions and they creep right into my yard, no matter how hard I try to prevent them from invading.

OK, back to sin (dandelions) .... in spite of my efforts, I'm going to be exposed and surrounded by worldly sins, not to mention that I have an ongoing crop of my own sins growing and thriving. I can't fight them off by myself, but with the strength and support of the Holy Spirit, I can put forth a worthy battle. Take that, you dandelions!

And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

(2 Corinthians 9:8)

I'm struggling with finding my "Christian niche," a ministry that will fit my talents and expertise. From my point of view, I have no talents or expertise! I know that's not true and I also know that God will enable me to go beyond my limits, helping me to succeed.

I'll continue to pray for God to show me what He wants me to do in His Kingdom. After all, I owe Him EVERYTHING!

I am your servant; give me discernment that I may understand your statutes.
(Psalm 119:125)

Tough week of BSF Bible study. I'll find out tomorrow if it was just me or if many of us struggled through this lesson. I appreciate the challenge of the lesson, for I know that it fires up my brain cells and makes me dig deeper into the scripture. I'm also confident that God sends me the understanding that is perfect for me at any given point in my life.

“If you believe that the Son of God died and rose again,” writes George MacDonald, “your whole future is full of the dawn of eternal morning, coming up beyond the hills of life, and full of such hope as the highest imagination for the poet has not a glimmer yet.”


I love this quote..... How true!

I tell you the truth, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy.
(John 16:20)

Such a difference between the Good Friday church services and the Easter morning church services. I'm always grateful that I know the "rest of the story," as I attend the very somber Friday services, acknowledging and reliving Jesus' crucifixion. The apostles should also have known the end of the story, but they continued to have their doubts, and therefore, their agonizing grief was inevitable. I'm certainly not trying to judge them. I wasn't there and would probably have been just as confused and doubtful as they were. Imagine the joy they would have experienced when Jesus appeared before them after His resurrection and it all became clear to them....all the prophesies, the parables, and the teachings that Jesus had given them would finally make sense.

Today, and everyday, I am humbled and grateful for second chances, for new beginnings, and for a forgiving Lord who loves an unlovable me.

Feel The Nails
Words by Ray Boltz, Music by Ray Boltz and Steve Millikan

They tell me Jesus died
For my transgressions
And that He paid that price
A long long time ago
When He gave His life for me
On a hill called Calvary
But there's something else
I want to know

CHORUS:

Does He still feel the nails
Every time I fail?
Does He hear the crowd cry,
Crucify, again?
Am I causing Him pain?
Then I know I've got to change
I just can't bear the thought
Of hurting Him
It seems that I'm so good
At breaking promises
And I treat His precious grace
So carelessly
But each time He forgives
What if He relives
The agony He felt on that tree?

CHORUS
Holy, holy, holy is the Lord
Holy, holy, holy is the Lord
Do you still feel the nails
Every time I fail?
Have I crucified you, Jesus,
With my sin?
I'm tired of playing games
I really want to change
I never want to hurt You again
Holy, holy, holy is the Lord
Holy, holy, holy is the Lord

These convicting lyrics say it all........

Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver. From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over.
(Matthew 26:14-16)

There are hundreds of scriptures that would be appropriate for Good Friday. As I was browsing through my Bible, I came across this scripture, which weighed heavy on my heart.

I will always have trouble wrapping my brain around the fact that Jesus went to His grave for the likes of me. Unjustified persecution has to be the worst type of persecution of all, yet Jesus accepted this undeserved punishment and fulfilled His Father's will, atoning for all the sins of the world, none of which He committed Himself.

I'm humbled and grateful for Jesus' sacrifice. There are no words that fully express my thankfulness for His selfless act. My best "thank you" would be to live a more Christ-like life, something that I will be working on everyday for the rest of my life. Thank you, Jesus, for giving me the ultimate example to follow.

Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when he stumbles, do not let your heart rejoice, or the Lord will see and disapprove and turn His wrath away from him.
(Proverbs 24:17-18)

Wow, how hard is it to obey this scripture?! I can only speak for myself, but I find satisfaction when someone "gets what they deserve." Of course, "what they deserve" is my opinion, from my sinful, judgemental viewpoint. I certainly found this scripture personally convicting and will try to work on changing my tone toward my enemies.

I've Got the Joy In My Heart

I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart
Where?
Down in my heart!
Where?
Down in my heart!
I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart
Down in my heart to stay

I dreamed about this hymn last night. When I woke up, I really didn't know if I had made up this hymn or if it was a hymn from my childhood. My dreams are vivid and it can sometimes be hard for me to know if it was a dream or if it really happened. What do we do when we have questions?..... we Google it. The hymn does exist. I still have no real memory of it, but it had to have been from my childhood, as I also knew the tune. For whatever reason, this was brought to me in my dream and I've had that pleasant feeling of nostalgia all day, while silently singing this cute little hymn.

I consider this another gift from God. It has to have been over five decades since I've sung this song and here it is, back in the forefront of my mind. I don't know why it was given to me, but I have enjoyed humming it again and trying to keep the joy in my heart!

"Reading is an immense gift, but only if the words are assimilated, taken into the soul--eaten, chewed, gnawed, received in unhurried delight." Eugene Peterson


Isn't that a wonderful quote? Reading truly is a gift, one that I've treasured my entire life. I don't remember learning to read, but I do know that I was reading and writing by age three. Not only is reading a gift, reading the Bible is an extraordinary gift, a treasure from God, written just for our delight, inspiration, and guidance.



I pray that I always take my time reading God's Book, savoring and lingering over each word while allowing it to seep into my soul to help me apply the Word of God in the situations that enter my earthly world.

Your sun will never set again, and your moon will wane no more; the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your days of sorrow will end. (Isaiah 60:20)

Today's BSF lesson was just chock-full of comforting scripture. I'm grateful to have these scriptures put before me for further study and exploration. My days of sorrow will end............. :)

"For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." (Matthew 18:20)

There were a lot of changes at church today, some good....some not so good. But, as usual, the message was wonderful and applicable to my life, and that's what it's all about!

A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control. (Proverbs 29:11)

I can certainly be a fool. My Dad always said "never fight with a fool", but I'd say, "but Dad, it's only the fools that I need to fight with"! I continue to struggle with my anger issues. Of course, I feel justified with my anger. It isn't rash, it isn't out of the blue, it isn't out of line, it isn't without cause. But what it IS, is un-Christian.