God Moments.....

Don't you just love it when you have a God moment! You are going about life and all of a sudden you have a chance to be used by God. The other day while out walking, I decided to stop and get ice-cream cone at an old fashion burger joint. As I waited in line there was an older lady with a white plastic garbage bag filled with a few clothes, as she chatted up the young man by her. I was pleased that he was polite and offered to give her the additional .09 cents she needed to get a root beer float with the $2 she had in hand. It was obvious by her size, clothes, teeth, and attempt at lipstick, that she had lack for a lot of things, but she was pretty excited to be getting her root beer float. It made me smile.

When I had left my apartment, I had put all of the cash I had in my pocket. While observing this interaction in front of me, the prompting to give what I had in my pocket was pressing, so when she passed I put the folded bill into her hand. Now I had just enough to get my cone with some change left over. I had not planned on giving, and not sure why I decided to take all my cash with me on my walk, but in hindsight, I better understand.

The truth of the matter is, I could have used that money on myself any number of times and did not for whatever reason, but there is nothing that would have brought me greater satisfaction than helping that little old lady.

May we all be blessed with those God moments and realize how blessed we truly are!

Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXkK9PuhfAs

Holding On To Jesus....

As school starts back for the younger kids, and our older kids go off to college, as a parent it is hard to let go. I would encourage all moms out there to keep praying. Do not live in fear, but cover your children with God's blessings and trust him to care for their souls, as they venture into the world and learn things for themselves. To me this is the hardest part of parenting, but holding on to Jesus gives a peace this world does not give.

There are things I will never understand, but I do not have to worry, because I know who holds my hand! No matter your trial or hardship, God has you covered. He knows the beginning and the end. So hold on to Jesus, He's holding on to you. Be encouraged and keep the faith, it is when your hardest hit, that you must not quit!

May the peace of God that passes understanding keep our hearts and mind on the one true God, the author and finisher of our  faith, in Jesus name I pray.

                                             I include this song for all Mama's out there.

Erin O'Donnell, "Hold On To Jesus":  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oe4ucy9c7rY

Brother Let Me Be Your Fortress

The other day my colleague in India sent me this picture below of an older Indian lady, whom his wife had bought some new slippers for with some funds we had sent. If you look closely at her picture you could perhaps see many reasons why she might be upset, but there is no mistaking the smile on her face, and her gratitude for the simplest of things.

Then I hear Kathie Gifford share her testimony about her husband Frank, and his gratitude and appreciation for life and everyone around him. His dependence on God, as modeled by his praying mom through the years.

At the new school where I teach I have morning duty at no less than McDonald's. My how things have changed.:-) Some of our students are dropped off there before school and our principal wants to make sure we maintain a positive relationship. There are also some homeless people that hang out there as well, and one morning I was reflecting to an adult that found himself in the midst of our students, that those homeless people could easily be one of us, and how grateful we would be to have facilities, air conditioning, access to water and perhaps even a little soda when no one was thought to be looking. The man reflected to me that not many people would feel that way. It caused me to pause.....

How about you? Maybe you haven't had lack, been on the street, abandoned as a child, or worked in a third world country. How can you relate? A simple prayer of Lord open my eyes to those around me who are hurting. Maybe it's just a hug, a warm smile, a helping hand. The bible puts it like this. Mark 9:41 "Truly I tell you, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to the Christ will certainly not lose their reward."

Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXCP8Zr9nZY

Anchor Of My Soul

 I remember growing up through hurricanes and not really understanding the devastation and loss that was associated with them, but rather my focus was on the comradery that occurred as a result of electricity being out, and having to cook over an open fire, food that was in everyone's freezer, namely seafood. It was a time of abundance and simplicity from my young view as a kid.

As an adult I also experienced hurricanes and had another perspective. I then witnessed the loss of lives, homes and personal destruction to family and friends. There was a sense of shock at the complete devastation and hopelessness that many felt, as I tried to help those who had lost everything!

Through the years of rebuilding it was interesting to me that a lot of the community as a whole did in fact bond together and become closer as a result of their devastation. Their values shifted to gratitude over rebuilding a home and restoring their communities. The local churches grew in attendance and there was a renewed since of one's need of Christ within the communities.

Over time though, it appears that most people have forgotten, and they have become less appreciative, as possessions are replaced and independence is once again regained, and God is put back on a shelf.

Can we not learn to stay appreciative and humble without lack, famine, hurt or destruction? The bible would say it like this. Matthew 19:23 "Then Jesus said to his disciples, "I tell you the truth, it is very hard for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of Heaven."

When we forget where we came from, and lack understanding that all we have is God's and that he is the rewarder, then we become unprofitable as His servant. We use our acquisition on self, and not on enriching others along our path.

Luke 12: 16-21: "The ground of a certain rich man yielded plentifully. And he thought within himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no room to store my crops?’ So he said, ‘I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods. And I will say to my soul, ‘Soul, you have many good laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry.’ But God said to him, ‘You fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?’ So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God."

Lord help us today to become that grateful and humble servant, remembering all your compassion in saving our souls, and giving us a reason for our hope that is in you!

Song:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JYDcBfQEa64

Are You Being Distracted?

That sounds so obvious as I write, of course we are all distracted, by any number of things that we need, want, information, this thing we call life! So what's my point? Well if my mission on earth is "spiritual," yet I live in  a human body, then I have to find a way to stay on mission without all of the human distractions, or needs that will bombard me each day.

I think the bigger picture is understanding what our mission is. We've all heard the saying " Too soon we get old and too late we get wise." Well what if I understood my mission sooner instead of later, and was deliberate in fulfilling it with an understanding that my humanness is the distraction.

Yes I need food, water clothing etc. , but as the bible puts it we are not to be concerned about these "earthly" things that our heavenly Father knows we have need of them. We are called to set aside our earthly trappings and press towards the mark of our high calling. Matthew 6:31-33"Do not worry then, saying, 'What will we eat?' or 'What will we drink?' or 'What will we wear for clothing?' 32"For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Is it really that easy, yet so hard to tap into that authentic understanding that we are spirits having a human experience? When we die, we leave these earthly bodies that are our temporary homes. The bible would say that bodily exercise profits little, storing up treasure on earth is a waste, then where is our eternity? 1st Timothy 4:8 "Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come."

We seem dimly at first and then more clearly as we approach our destiny. First Corinthians 13:12

"For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known."

Lord give me eyes to see and grant me wisdom and understanding for today.... James 1:5 "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."

Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJsa6-y4sDs

Where Is Your Hope?

During times of uncertainty, joblessness, illness, financial struggles and the likes, where is your hope? Is it in temporal things that are fleeting, or is it in an unfailing God that says, "Where is your faith"? Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Trust, faith and hope, all easy to say, but what does our heart and our actions say about our beliefs? Do our lives reflect our trust in God, when things are bad and there is no way out?

Are you looking for God to open doors for you, as you continue to walk in faith? "The substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen".  Jeremiah 29:11. God's ways are higher than our ways and he has bigger plans for you and me than we can imagine.

Are you faced with uncertainty today about what tomorrow holds, where the finances are coming from, how the bills are going to be paid, etc.? My hope is to encourage you to look up, where your only true hope comes from, maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 33:20,"We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield."

Psalm 121: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UPysbm6B92E

Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-RRZgr7wNDs

Enough?

Do you have enough for today? Remember Moses during the 40 years of wandering in the desert before entering the promise land, there was a daily provision, with enough for the day.

Could it be God is working in our lives, giving us enough for today, to trust him more. Are we delaying getting into our promised land because we are focused on getting more, instead of enjoying what we have and trusting God for our daily provision?

Are we like the life-guard that is waiting till we pass out before he can go in and save us? Are we through struggling, have we reached our point where we can't go on, and we have to rely on a higher power?

How long will your wandering in the desert last before entering God's best for you? "I know the plans I have for you to give you a hope and a future." Am I delaying God's best for me because of my attitude and actions?

Thought provoking questions for all of us this morning. Do I have food, clothing, shelter, enough money for today? Am I grateful, appreciative, and using what I have been given wisely, or am I stressing, worrying and storing up earthly treasure?

The bible has much to say about this:

Matthew 6: 33"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. 34"So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.


Matthew 6:25
"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?

Matthew 6:27
Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?

Luke 10:41
"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things,

Luke 12:11
"When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say,

Luke 12:22
Then Jesus said to his disciples: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear.

Philippians 4:6
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

1 Peter 5:7
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient to the day is the evil thereof.

Matthew 6:11,25 Give us this day our daily bread…
Exodus 16:18-20 And when they did mete it with an omer, he that gathered much had …
Lamentations 3:23 They are new every morning: great is your faithfulness.

Deuteronomy 33:25 Your shoes shall be iron and brass; and as your days, so shall your strength be.
1 Kings 17:4-6,14-16 And it shall be, that you shall drink of the brook; and I have commanded …
2 Kings 7:1,2 Then Elisha said, Hear you the word of the LORD; Thus said the LORD…
Luke 11:3 Give us day by day our daily bread.
Hebrews 13:5,6 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as you have.....

The beauty of God's grace is, it is never too late to start trusting him. Let today be the best of your life!

Song:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IoOPsGDZdnM

Praying.....

I have recently started a new job in another state, and carry with me the lessons I learned while teaching overseas. As I start each day, during our minute of silence, I have the privilege to pray for the school, students, teachers and parents where I currently teach. What I have learned is that God hears our prayers, and wants to use us if we just ask.

I reflect on this past post below as I continue to support these young girls in India and ask for your continued prayers for their salvation as well. Latest update is that my colleague's wife is getting them all dewormed, and they are being encouraged to continue in school with additional support for food and clothing.

What a privilege to be God's child. We are blessed to be a blessing to those around us. Protected to do his work and rewarded for all we do. I cannot think of a better job, can you?

One morning while returning home from my walk, I had the privilege of praying for this family's grandmother that needed surgery, as I did not have sufficient funds to help with the operation needed. With the whole family present I bowed my head and folded my hands with them to pray. Now I do not know what they understood, but I know God can work a miracle and heal her body as a witness to him. As I continue to lift this family up in prayer, not only for their physical needs, but their spiritual needs, I am reminded once again of our role as Christians. Will you agree with me for healing for her? God's word says "Where 2 or 3 are gathered in my name I am with them and if ye abide in me and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what you will and it shall be done." Matthew 18:20 and John 15:7

We are indeed running a race and even though things look crazy around us, I am reminded of God's sovereignty each step of the way. Blessed to be a blessing, called to be his hands and feet, in my family, with my friends and those I meet along my path.

How about you? Are you aware of the gifts and talents that God has placed in your heart? Have you reflected on your role as a Christian, parent, employee, friend or spouse? Where is your hope, money and time being spent? Do your actions line up with your words? Thought provoking questions for us all along the way.

Psalm 34:1-3 " I will bless the Lord at all times, his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in the Lord, the humble shall hear thereof and be glad. Oh magnify the Lord with me and let us exalt his name together."

Song by Matt Redmann: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXDGE_lRI0E

Holding Nothing Back!

At the beginning of each day a prayer that helps me to stay on God's path is a submission to his will, and a desire to be used of him this day. Dear Lord help me be a blessing to someone in my path. Open and close the doors where you would have me to go. A deliberate and intentional prayer with a desire to be God's hands and feet right where I am today, for it could very well be my last, or someone else's in my path. And if it was, would I do anything different, or have regrets?

Happiness is not found in material gain, but in being on "purpose". Using our gifts and talents to make the world a better place, being God's hands and feet.

May we live with that higher purpose in mind, through God's still small voice that lives inside of us each day.  A kind word, encouragement to a stranger, or colleague, parent or student, husband, or daughter. Lord help us today, right now, speak to our hearts, help us to move forward giving of ourselves, holding nothing back! John 4:35 "You know the saying, 'Four months between planting and harvest.' But I say, wake up and look around. The fields are already ripe for harvest."

Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vzMyIzkyD4

You Don't Have to be Afraid!

Have you ever met an infant that wasn't full of joy and happiness? If you have ever worked with a Down's syndrome child or other handicaps like that, what most will say their happiness spills over in all they do. I loved my daughter's Grandpa's saying, as he was in his final days, "If I was any better I couldn't stand it!" I don't know about you, but I love being around appreciative people and desire to be more like them!

In a world that is fraught with death, destruction and the likes how is that possible to the "thinking " mind, as my husband would say? Faith as a child is what the bible says. Trusting in a living God that knows all of our needs and is directing our paths.

Where is your hope, focus and attention being paid? We are all filling our minds with something. What do you read, listen to or focus on? Philippians 4:8. "And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise." Ya think things have really changed?

We all have room to doubt and fear, but God's word promises a better life than that. Are we going to hold onto the known, or embrace the unknown, and trust God in his soverignty. Our choice.....

I don't have to be afraid, even though I walk through the valley of death, there may be pain in the night, but joy comes in the morning!

"This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it!" Psalm 118:24. God needs you on his scene everyday to spread his love! What are you waiting for?

Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SgQ6vWEhH5E

You Are Not Alone...

Remembering God's past provisions in my life gives strength for today. Reflect on your journey of God's  provision and be encouraged on your current path, knowing God will never leave or forsake you! Deuteronomy 31:6 "So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the LORD your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you."

When we were relocating to India, from Istanbul, Turkey, we were told at the last minute that no pets were allowed in and we were forced to walk the walk of faith, if we were to get into India with our cat.

During our flight we befriended an Indian national who sat across from us, who was also a U.S. citizen and going back to Mumbai to visit family. He knew we had the cat, but we never mentioned the recent law change. During the early morning hours of the flight an elderly Indian gentleman went into cardiac arrest and my husband encouraged me to go help. So off I went and after about 15  minutes or so of intense resuscitation efforts, I began to lose hope and took the elderly gentleman's hand in mine and started praying, while others continued working on him. What happened next was an absolute miracle as his heart started beating again and he was talking coherently as we made our emergency landing in Pakistan. A God moment for me and this 81 year old Indian man.

Our emergency landing in Pakistan was a miracle as well, as you may know there is a strained relationship between India and Pakistan, but the olive branch was extended and the Indian gentleman and his family were allowed to get emergency visas to go to the hospital and stay, in addition to allowing our plane to refuel to continue our journey into India. This was so unprecedented that it even made headlines in the newspapers the following day in both countries!

Hours later we were back in the air on our way to Mumbai. Once we landed, we knew we would be faced with our biggest hurdle that would decide whether or not we would make it into India. After we said goodbye to the Indian passenger next to us we proceeded through the necessary customs and baggage claim. Since we had all of our bags with us, 6 to mention, we were the last to leave the baggage terminal. None other than the Indian national did we run into again. He offered his assistance since he was from there, and we gladly accepted.

As we approached the customs control, there was a scanner and I paused wondering how I was going to get the cat through, without them knowing, which was my only plan, since I could not place her bag in a scanner. The Indian gentleman then says to the guard, "Sir what do we do about "fluffy" in the bag", innocently enough because we had not shared the new law with him. The guard goes oh, "A cat in the bag"! I laughed nervously as I knew what was coming next. On cue he said, "We do not allow any pets in." I replied, oh....

At that point the Indian gentleman started speaking to the guard in their language, so I have no idea what he said to him, but I would bet it had something to do with the elderly Indian gentleman who went into cardiac arrest on the plane. The guard then asked me what I was doing and I explained I had been teaching in Istanbul and we were relocating to teach in India. He replied, "Can you show me papers to prove this?" As it turns out I did have a copy of my contract with the school as verification. As I was digging for it, the guard told the Indian, "If she can produce those papers we will let her go". About that time I found the copy and I handed it to them. The guards then waved us on along with cat and all 6 bags and didn't scan anything!

God continued to go before us and open doors that said there was no way! To say that the journey was smooth from that point on would not be honest, but each step I had the confidence of the previous step to encourage us to keep walking and trusting. We did in fact make it even after the cat had to go cargo for the last leg, but was then given a personal body guard to keep a watch over her!

As a result of that journey, I was strengthened to endure the hardships of everyday life that lay ahead, but I was also granted unprecedented favor and protection at each step during my stay.

What I learned through that journey is to trust God more. We are to look to him for our protection and strength during difficult times and draw closer to him as a result of those trials, that he alone sees us through.

Are you going through trials and wondering how you are going to make it? With God ALL things are possible! Mark 9:23. "'If you can?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for one who believes."

Listen to this song and be encouraged in your walk today, to trust God, no matter your circumstances!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aGMOKBki56k

Imprinting and Reflections....

The other day while reading I came across some research on an eagle's imprinting that is done by the parent. It caused me to reflect on my own parenting and what I had imprinted intentional or not on my own child. I then thought about the students I teach and how my words and actions can affect them,  then I thought about my own parents. How my views and thought processes were formed at an early age by what they did or said.

In my current teaching post you would say I have done a lot of "reflecting" on my readings. Of course the next step in reflection, is action. Now what do I do with the information I have gleaned?

As I digest the information and become more conscious of my personal interactions, I am challenged to walk more humbly, realizing whether I know it or not my words and actions have an impact on how I think and everyone I encounter daily! For some I will make a slight impression, yet others I will leave a large imprint, however I do not always get to choose how much.

If I use the example of a hand or foot print in a mold, depending on when I put my hand on it and how much time and or pressure is put on the mold will determine how deep the imprint is. Hmmm....

Final thought is what am I allowing to imprint me now and what kind of imprint am I leaving on others? As an adult I get to choose what I put in my mind, what I listen to, what I accept as views, attitudes or beliefs, as long as I am aware of the process I know I can and will become who I hang around with and or listen too. How much more for our kids as their mold is still very soft and impressionable. May we all be more intentional in our words and actions today.

Here is the link that I hope causes as much reflection for you as it did for me. http://www.prophetic.net/eagles.htm

Blessings on your journey.....

Friends and Loved Ones...

In looking back at this older post and starting a new chapter of my life again, I am reminded of all the additional friends I have made along the way, and the impact each one of you has had on my life, whether it was for years, or for a season. Leaving and starting over is never easy, for any of us, but my life is richer for having met each of you and no matter where I go, I take a part of you with me!

May God's blessing and protection keep each of you this day and always!

 A song that speaks to the heart of friendships far and wide, kids that are grown up and lost loved ones. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOCJAVlESEo

Cousins in Bowling Green, Kentucky

Friends in Celebration, Fl.


Seaside students rafting in Wyoming.


Uncle Bay and Aunt Sue


New York City!

Ocean Springs, MS.- Mrs. Jodi's Farm

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Reflections of Gratitude

In the bible it talks about having memorials as reminders for God's blessings in our lives' to keep us grateful and appreciative. This morning I came across the notes I wrote about a return trip to the U.S. for the holidays from India, to be with my daughter and God's protection and provision at every turn. Even as I reread I have fresh feelings of gratitude as I remember the journey well! I encourage you to look back and realize how blessed you are because of God's hand of protection on you this day and share your story, and or reflect with gratitude afresh!

Having left the mountain top of Kodaikanal, India, I traveled by cab down zig zagging roads. Three quarters of the way down the mountain there is a car just ahead of us that went through a concrete barrier and down the side of the mountain. We got just past it and pulled over to see if we could help. I said my usual prayer of safety for those involved and gratitude for it not being us. Selfish I know... When we inspected the scene with the local crowd, the car was out of sight with only a hub cab and fender indicating a car was there at all on the steep drop off filled with lush vegetation. What I learned as I saw some locals tying ropes to get down the ravine to the people, is that there were 4 people in the car and all survived with minor injuries. The locals continued to work to get them up to the road with the help of others. We then continued the journey onward with prayers of gratitude for those involved.

 After one really close call with the local green bus careening towards us in our lane, with both vehicles traveling at high rates of speed, I continued my gratitude for another moment, to live that day. All I am left to do at that point is pray. Nothing is in my control....

Maybe that is where I need to be? Totally dependent on God and recognizing his mercy and hand of protection. Hmmm...

We arrived at the airport in record time, 3 hours imagine that, even stopping for the car that went off the mountain. I am grateful to have another day. Now my flight is not until 11:30pm which means in India they do not let you in the airport but 3 hours early, because it is air conditioned and with facilities. I have 2 hours to spare. As I pay my driver and tip him well, in gratitude for not having to go any further and making it alive, I approached the armed guards who look at my ticket and say "Not till 8 Mam, do you have your passport"? I hand him mine and he says, "From the US, well right this way since you are a guest in our country, go have a seat. Blessing #3...

The room has AC and a restroom, what more do I need? My husband thought to pop me popcorn for me to snack on while I rested and waited. Blessed with a husband that is caring for my needs, blessed once again.

Being in India has made me ultra sensitive to the ordinary things I use to take for granted, or felt like at least they were in my control. Daily I walk amongst people who are begging for daily bread, sleeping on the ground, looking for clean water, walking barefoot and hauling rocks, wood and other assortments on their heads for work. Is it any wonder I feel so blessed?

I await my time patiently in the airport grateful for the air condition, soft seats and restrooms that are clean, not to mention clean drinking water. I get checked in, but I forgot to take the Swiss army knife from Istanbul out of my purse. Somewhere in India my name is now in a book with a charge, carrying a Swiss army knife into the airport. The guard shakes his head and says "This cannot go", but wished me well just the same.The journey continues without my knife...

I am tired and seats are small, but go to sleep I must! I have many hours of travel alone, that in itself makes me nervous because I have been blessed with a husband who guides me on all of my trips. Now it is just me and needless to say my closest friend, God. Thankfully, blessed once again. :-)

I settle in and much to my surprise there is a seat between me and the guy next to me. I stretch my legs and curl up tight and thank my God once again...

I arrived in Dubai, not knowing what to expect, but had to change planes to make my connect. Through the custom lines I go after an hour or so, I step up next and he says hello, all wrapped in his turbine and aks "First time to Dubai"? I reply why yes, he asks, "Do you know Arabic" and I say why no. He smiles and says "Welcome, enjoy yourself", without all the to do of the other guest, blessed once again....

I make it to my luggage and all is there, to not say a blessing would be remiss. I need to change money and not sure where, right in front of me is someone to take my wares. I give my 3000 rupees for $41. Wow! We are so blessed in the US, more than we even know.

Next after assistance at every turn, I am free to settle in and touch in with friends, with free wifi all throughout the terminal. Blessings continue to pour down like rain....

Next flight is on Emirates and I would highly recommend! I ended up with a window seat on a hedge request online and got a seat that is full of leg room. A gentleman that flies regularly says, "You have the best seat in the house, for an economy ticket"! I just smile and say yes, while I am thinking, you got it, blessed once again!

Food is served and by this time I am starving. Guess what, a full course meal. I would have to show you the menu, but needless to save we were fed the whole time so much so that I thought I was at a resort! Does life get any better than this?

Well, now we are in London, hustling to the terminal with limited time to spare, pushed to the front and assisted in every way. Window seat again, though this time I am in a small corner. My thought was, well Lord, you could keep the seat empty next to me. A young gentleman at least 6 ft tall, sits down next to me with knees to his chest. I thought well I have no room to complain. He laughed and was willing to make the most of it. As we settle in and get ready for takeoff, the stewardess asks if we are together? He replied no and was told he could switch to a bigger space across the isle. Guess that leaves me with 2 seats after all.....Thank you Lord!:-)

Now we are told there are delays taking off because the towers are down and everything is being handled by man. We are asked to wait patiently as they negotiate the take off terms, requesting to fly with radar instead  by flying with the smaller planes until they can get clearance.

While we are waiting I am thinking how thirsty I am and the lady walks around and asks if anyone would like some water! Do I need to say it again? So yes, here we sit as I type, my legs stretched out over 2 seats, with 2 glasses of water to sip at my leisure as we wait for our takeoff!

Do I need to fret or worry about the delays? You tell me. Is God not in control. If he cares about my legs, my hunger and thirst, you can bet he cares about my safety and ALL things, even those we do not  know that are for our good.

So for now, I am relaxing and chillin and waitin on God to do his thing in his time! Until then, blessings to all.....

Well less than an hour, we are in the air again. Coffee and biscuits have been served, and I am enjoying the ride.

Now we are heading into Dallas at the conclusion of our 10 hour flight with iced runways and expected delays, because only one landing strip is now open, while they work tirelessly to keep the ice off. Prayers are said for the pilots and planes landing. Surprisingly we are on the ground in less than 30 minutes and everyone is safe! Blessings keep falling down like snow!

Now I am late and have missed my connection. Prayers of thankfulness for his divine guidance knowing if I need to stay in Dallas, then that is where I needed to be, and grateful for his protection in the midst of the storm.

Going through customs and getting checked could not have been easier. Have you heard of all the horror stories of coming back into the US from being abroad and getting harassed? Guess what, I was put through a do it yourself checker! Punched a few buttons, answered a few questions, got my ticket automatically and handed it to the next gentleman and I said, " I am not sure what I am doing". He replied, "You are doing fine", with a smile, so I smiled in return.:-) He asked if I was declaring anything and I responded no, and he said, "Welcome to the US"!  :-) For those who have been through customs after traveling abroad, you can say a HUGE blessing for me over here in the South! Or maybe that is just the “southern hospitality” shinning through in all they do! Either way, just blessed once again!

Now to get checked back in and see where I am spending the night? I hurry through and get assistance because I am clueless when traveling alone. Because of the ice, the airport is empty and plenty of people are available to give me the one-on-one attention that I need. I am happy to report the flight was delayed and if I hurry I may be able to catch it? My bag is checked again, so up I go and wait for the skyline tram that is automated to go to my departing gate. Once I am on, I have only 10 minutes before departure and it turns out I am at the last stop on the system. C-14. Did I say a prayer again? You bet. If God brought me this far, 40 hours into the journey, would he drop me at the last minute? Peace settles over like a river as I tell myself to relax. Either way God is in control, so enjoy the ride.

D,#1-20, D#21-40, E, A, B etc... It is now 8:50....Hmmm.....guess I am staying in Dallas after all. Another group gets on all bubbly and chatty and one of the passengers says, “Guess what, our flight is now 9:30 departure”. They all sigh a sigh of relief. My natural question was what flight are you catching? Their reply was somewhere else in Texas so I sighed...They naturally asked where I was heading and I said New Orleans, with an 8:50 departure, as I looked at my watch that rang that very time. They sighed in return and the door opens for C-14. As  I go to depart the gentleman next to me smiles and says, "They are lying, you will be just fine". I smiled in return for the uplifting encouragement and scurried towards the expected gate, only to find 8:55 departed and no one there. Hmmm... could I have missed it by mere seconds? If so, God is in control and there is a reason why, but let me keep asking and make sure. With a quick call, the lady replies the plane is delayed to 9:15, but I respond there is no one here and the doors are locked, but I will keep trying.

As I start to leave to get some help, a gentleman walks up to the desk and I quickly pounce and ask about the plane. He says they have already left, but he says wait let me unlock this door and double check. He tells me to wait as he runs down the entrance and quickly returns in a hurry that they are going to open the plane for me as they are in holding because of the ice. A quick cursory look at my ticket to confirm and quickly they open the door and let me in. Do I need to say blessed? Overwhelmed is what I am!:-)

People sit in wonder and anxious for their flight, you can hear a pin drop as we start to take off for our flight. Now normally I get sick when flying, but you guessed right, prayers are sent up again for a smooth journey and gratitude for his provision. Guess I am going to the "Big Easy" tonight after all.

We start on our way and people are crossing themselves as they pray. I simply smile and think that is nice to be in America again... My thought is do not worry God is in control, I did not make it this far to have anything happen to me now. Thank you Jesus once again!:-)

We arrive safely with no delay, now to get luggage and find my hotel. Luggage appears after a little while and off to find transport to the hotel. Games are in town and hotels were few, so I had to book a cheap one a few miles away. Off to find if it has a shuttle, but turns out it does not. Now to hop in a taxi is my next lot. With assistance and guidance I proceed to the stand, the lady jumps out and says let me give you a hand. Right this way he will take you where you need and off in my private taxi, now in the Big Easy....

The smoothest ride I think I have had in a while. Ten minutes later I arrive with a smile, cheap fare is paid with a tip in return. Away he goes with a smile and a grin. I was greeted with a smile at this “cheap” hotel, that serves continental brek and wireless internet in the room! Check out is 12 hours later and I am giving a handicap room, no insult intended, it just made it easier with my bags, because cheap motels do not have elevators to carry your bags up the stairs. I walked in the room as big as I have seen, with a coffee maker, microwave and refrig. Now I can have my coffee and check in with my friends!

Yes you got it, blessed once again. What seems like a put-down is only a set up for God to bless us each step of the way. So when you are hardest hit, look up God is there, looking to take you and protect your way!

PS. To top it off breakfast had grits!!!! :-))))) God is awesome, down to the smallest bit!

Thank you to family and friends for your prayers and support. To travel alone is a daunting task for me, but when done with those closest to you through prayers, is more than I can ask, so thanks once again for your love and support!:-)

Friends I do not say this to do anything more, than to brag on God’s mercies, once again! So no matter your darkest hour or your biggest fears, turn to Jesus he is always near!

May you be blessed and encouraged, that no matter your “storm” know your God is in control and be as dependent on him as I have had to be, when traveling here!

Thank you Jesus for being my pilot, protector, guide and my closest friend!:-)))

Love and blessings to each of you, and may you be encouraged and blessed once again!:-)

DEC.7TH, 2013
Just before the midnight hour, 44 hours into the journey from beginning to end!

God Loves You!

Persecuted, pressed down, but not forgotten! God hears your cry, he knows your heart, he sees every injustice, and he wants you to know he loves you!

Psalm 37 is an awesome chapter full of promises for those who delight themselves in the Lord, trust in his provisions and commit their ways to him. Read God's promises to his children, so that when, not if, hardships and persecutions come, you will be able to stand strong, because you trust in his word!

1 Do not fret because of evildoers,
nor be envious of the workers of iniquity.

2 For they shall soon be cut down like the grass,
and wither as the green herb.

3 Trust in the LORD, and do good;
Dwell in the land, and feed on his faithfulness.

4 Delight yourself also in the LORD,
and he shall give you the desires of your heart.

5 Commit your way to the LORD,
trust also in him,
and he shall bring it to pass.

6 He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light,
and your justice as the noonday.

7 Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him;
Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way,
Because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass.

8 Cease from anger, and forsake wrath;
Do not fret—it only causes harm.

9 For evildoers shall be cut off;
but those who wait on the LORD,
they shall inherit the earth.

10 For yet a little while and the wicked shall be no more;
Indeed, you will look carefully for his place,
but it shall be no more.

11 But the meek shall inherit the earth,
and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.

12 The wicked plots against the just,
and gnashes at him with his teeth.

13 The Lord laughs at him,
for he sees that his day is coming.

14 The wicked have drawn the sword
and have bent their bow,
to cast down the poor and needy,
to slay those who are of upright conduct.

15 Their sword shall enter their own heart,
and their bows shall be broken.

16 A little that a righteous man has
is better than the riches of many wicked.

17 For the arms of the wicked shall be broken,
but the LORD upholds the righteous.

18 The LORD knows the days of the upright,
and their inheritance shall be forever.

19 They shall not be ashamed in the evil time,
and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied.

20 But the wicked shall perish;
and the enemies of the LORD,
like the splendor of the meadows, shall vanish.
Into smoke they shall vanish away.

21 The wicked borrows and does not repay,
but the righteous shows mercy and gives.

22 For those blessed by him shall inherit the earth,
but those cursed by him shall be cut off.

23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD,
and he delights in his way.

24 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down;
for the LORD upholds him with his hand.

25 I have been young, and now am old;
yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken,
nor his descendants begging bread.

26 He is ever merciful, and lends;
and his descendants are blessed.

27 Depart from evil, and do good;
and dwell forevermore.

28 For the LORD loves justice,
and does not forsake his saints;
they are preserved forever,
but the descendants of the wicked shall be cut off.

29 The righteous shall inherit the land,
and dwell in it forever.

30 The mouth of the righteous speaks wisdom,
and his tongue talks of justice.

31 The law of his God is in his heart;
none of his steps shall slide.

32 The wicked watches the righteous,
and seeks to slay him.

33 The LORD will not leave him in his hand,
nor condemn him when he is judged.

34 Wait on the LORD,
and keep his way,
and he shall exalt you to inherit the land;
when the wicked are cut off, you shall see it.

35 I have seen the wicked in great power,
and spreading himself like a native green tree.

36 Yet he passed away, and behold, he was no more;
indeed I sought him, but he could not be found.

37 Mark the blameless man, and observe the upright;
for the future of that man is peace.

38 But the transgressors shall be destroyed together;
the future of the wicked shall be cut off.

39 But the salvation of the righteous is from the LORD;
he is their strength in the time of trouble.

40 And the LORD shall help them and deliver them;
he shall deliver them from the wicked,
and save them, because they trust in him.

"And now you know the rest of the story"! Do not fear,  for I am with you! The word of the Lord.....

Song: You are Faithful: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJFlY0mwFks

All My Hope Is In You!

God's word promises protection in our storms, healing and hope throughout scripture! Something I have done that helps me to be encouraged is to write down some of those scriptures and have them on a sheet of paper in my journal. Then everyday when I read, I have a constant reminder of God's promises to encourage me and keep me going, even in the midst of difficulties. My daughter when she was younger, would also make signs out of scripture and post them throughout her room and on her mirrors as a reminder of her place in Christ.

As children of God we have the victory, even in death! What is to fear or to be upset about? We are heirs of eternal life with promises of earthly favor and divine appointments! Wow! People who see Christians should say, "What are they so happy about"?

Do you know who your Father is? I would encourage you to look back over your life and remember all the many things God has done for you and your family, and write them down as a reminder  of God's divine provisions in your life. Then when the storms of life come, you are prepared with God's word and reminders of his past provisions. Do not lose hope, reflect and remember you we were made to thrive as God's disciple!

Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fGRQnRWCjA

What Is Your Purpose?

If we accept that God created us in his image and we were made to worship him, then our original purpose was to love and serve God. He created Adam and Eve, put them in a lush garden and sought fellowship with them. Through disobedience they were thrown out of the garden and cursed to work the land and toll throughout their lives. Genesis 3:17-19.

So fast forward to you and me. We are still created in God's image, with a purpose of fellowship with him. The difference is now we have to work and toll the land until our death. So that brings me to the original question. What is our purpose? How do we make meaning out of our lives through all of its' seasons and settings?

We know some will grow up faster than others and have to work to survive. We also know others that will lead very easy lives, as a result of their settings. As we transition from young adults, and then into seniors our settings also change. How do we maintain our purpose and live meaningful lives in light of all these various scenarios?

If we live dynamic or static lives, hard or easy by the world's standards, the original plan remains. To love and serve God with all of your heart. The first commandment of God, followed by the second, loving your neighbors as yourself.  Matthew 22: 36-40.

What that looks like for each of us will be different depending on our gifts and talents and place in life, yet with a daily submission to our Creator, we can all live meaningful, productive lives, regardless of our settings. So don't look to your neighbor, or fret someone else's path. Focus on what God has created you for, each day of your life, and live the purposeful life God created YOU for!

Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6oxXwRWFTo

Walking With You....

In sharing with a colleague the other day, about my style of teaching, I explained I try to motivate the students, by letting them know I am walking alongside of them offering help and encouragement with guidance to help them make good choices, giving them tools that they will be able to use for life. I however will not force them to do anything, but will allow them to make bad choices with warning that if they do, there will be consequences for those choices. Ultimately we want them to learn to make good choices for their own good, but through it all we are there for them as they learn.

This made me think about our relationship with Christ, for he also walks alongside of us, never pushing or controlling, but gently leading, with our consent. Loving and teaching with an open hand.

God wants what is best for us, but he created us with a free will. That means that we will have a choice as to the decisions we make, but he is willing and wants to guide us along the way. Many times I have thought I know what is best for me, but have learned through my mistakes to be pliable and flexible to God's leading.

What seems like the right road is fine from our view, but God's view shows danger or a lost opportunity and directs us to on another path for our own good and those around us. When we learn to trust God in his wisdom, not insisting on things being done our way, our life becomes richer and more meaningful each step of the way.

His disciples saw him pray daily and the power he demonstrated as a result, so they asked, Lord teach us to pray and he did. "The Lord's Prayer"Matthew 6:9-13 and Luke 11:2-4.

How about you? Do you have a relationship with your heavenly Father? Are you willing to ask and obey, trusting that he only wants the best for you and me, even when it seems like everything is upside down from our view?

Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DP4Kl0Cfywc

He Holds Your Hand....

Trusting in a loving God is hard for some, but I encourage you today to give it a try. Many things about tomorrow I do not seem to understand, but I know who holds the future and I know who holds my hand. The chorus to this song is on my heart as I turn to Proverbs

Ch. 27:1 "Boast not thyself of tomorrow, for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth."

As I have stepped out in faith and took a job in another state, I have walked through doors as they have opened before my eyes, where I could not see a way. I am encouraged to keep walking and trusting in a living God that knows where I need to be and how to use me for his glory. Jeremiah 29:11"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future".

May God speak to your heart today and help you to be at peace in every situation, with an intimate understanding that he is holding your hand and there is nothing you are going through, or will go through, that he is not aware of and has not already made a way through it.

Trust in his love today and his provision for tomorrow.

Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jd4qtmDGIWQ

Save My Life....

The song verse that is on my heart is "My Savior lives, my God he is always there for me". What a blessed assurance we have in Christ to know that he is always there for us, even when we forget. Through rough spots we all get discouraged and question, what is going on, where am I going, how am I suppose to get out of this? When we have run out of strength and tried all we know to do and we are forced to say I do not know, what to do next, that is when God ultimately shows up. 

It is like the lifeguard who has to wait for the victim to pass out before they can go in and save them. If you are like me you tend to have your flailing moments too, for which God has to say, "When you want my help, just ask". Hmm.... I thought I did, but then I proceeded as if I did not ask.

I have a daughter that has that knack as well. "Mom what do you think about this and then proceeds to tell me that I am all wrong when I give an answer." As a parent I respond much like I am sure God does with me, "Well Dear,why did you ask in the first place if you think you know all the answers"? Pretty arrogant no doubt, yet I am sure we are all guilty of the same at some point, if not in word, then in deed.

Our hope is in a loving God that knows our every need. Listen to the words of the song and be encouraged in whatever situation you find yourself today.

Song: "My Savior My God" by Aaron Shust. http://search.yahoo.com/search?ei=utf-8&fr=aaplw&p=song+my+savior+my+god+by+aaron+shust

Life Is A Journey....

 As I start my first day of work, in a new state, and begin anew, the phrase "life is a journey" comes to mind. Lots of unknowns lie ahead, but each step of the way I depend on God to direct my steps.

A beautiful praise song chorus that says it well. "Lord I offer my life to you, everything I have been through, use it for your glory. Lord I offer my days to you, lifting my praise to you as a pleasing sacrifice. Lord I offer you my life."by the Hillsongs.

God did not say we had to be perfect. He is big enough to use all of us for his glory and make it beautiful. The question is, are we willing to give him our all?

May God bless your journey today, and all that you have have been through, to use it for his glory!

Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7rGMoXhADoI

Be Still...

A dear friend had a series of potential health scares for his family a few months back and asked for prayer. I have a monthly prayer list in my bible that I jot down those who come across my path that I think need prayer, and then of course those who ask. What is interesting to me though is that once I write them down and pray for them I forget about them. It's as if I have laid them at Jesus's feet and trust that he will provide, then when they get answered, I write thank you next to it. It serves as a great benchmark that continues to build my faith as each one is answered.

Just yesterday my friend wrote back and said his dad was given a clean bill of health, with absolutely no cancer as previously diagnosed, and his daughter's pregnancy is going beautifully despite the huge alarms early on. In his words, he reported, "Connie - it seems that your prayers have been working, thank you."

Well my reply was to never doubt God's goodness and mercy, even when things are off kilter. He does hear our prayers, not just mine and "Is working all things to the good that love him and are called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28. So even when hard times hit, and they will, you can trust your heavenly Father to have your best interest in mind.

I have learned through the hard times, and seeming setbacks to trust God is working behind the scenes and is preparing something better than I could imagine. The most recent was my apartment search here. When looking I had several setbacks, then when I had moved forward with one, willing to settle for a one bedroom, things changed several times and then at the last minute and I was given a 2 bedroom for the price of the one bedroom! Totally unprecedented and something I could not have done on my own!

Through it all, in the states, overseas etc., I have learned to trust in Jesus and allow him to steer my ship without letting "fear or anxiety" control me. I am not saying it is easy, but with continued practice, you will become more confident in your walk as God continually shows up and directs your path for his glory!

Won't you trust him today? He is only a prayer away....

Song:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHATCAvlqQA

Where Are You Headed?

Having recently taken a road trip across several states it is easy to understand the need to have directions and a destination. It doesn't matter how good a driver I am, I will not reach my destination if I don't have a road map and a plan. Now some may use a GPS, while others use apps on their phones, yet some will still rely on the old school fold out maps, like my husband.

What that brings me to is our walk as Christians. I may in fact be a very good Christian, but where am I going? Without a plan and a course of action, I may find myself getting lost or just going in circles?

When we have kids, a job, and other obligations, it is easy to get on the treadmill of life and never question where we are going. During this part of the trip my husband asked later, " Did you see this and that, I said no I was busy trying to follow you, I didn't dare look around!" Isn't that like it is in life though. We are busy surviving, trying to keep our heads above the water, pay the bills etc. Who has time to enjoy the scenery!

Even during this season of life though the bible would encourage us to do just that. Take time, look for opportunities to be a blessing to someone, with an understanding that all that we have is God's. A day of rest, the sabbath to do God's will. Our first fruits, being a faithful stewart of what he has given us. Using our talents and gifts to help others. He can bless and multiply our efforts, even when there seems to be a lack.

The bible states it like this. Proverbs 3:8-10 …"Honor the LORD from your wealth and from the first of all your produce; So your barns will be filled with plenty and your vats will overflow with new wine".

First Peter 4:10 
…Be hospitable to one another without complaint. As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God; whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever.

When we discipline ourselves to follow God's laws, he will direct our paths for our own good, and for eternal life. Won't you trust him today? Trust that he loves you more than you can imagine and desires to give you life and life abundantly!

Psalm 37:4-5 "Delight yourself in the LORD; and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in him, and he will do it".

Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtmMM6w_Kww

Humility....

A humble and contrite spirit. I am not sure I have fully understood that phrase directly for it is something I have always heard, but perhaps did not think about fully, yet in reflection I think about the people I love to be around most, and they are those with a sweet, appreciative and humble spirit.

I remember reflecting on my return from India how different the poor were there, than they are here in America. In India they were very humble and appreciative for everything, with an intrinsic understanding that it was not of themselves, but of a higher power. They knew they needed help beyond themselves and they were always searching and sometimes in the wrong places as well. In America it would seem we have lost our dependence on God. We have so many things to turn to here and it seems it is rarely God.

I think back to when I was a child and we went to church where people kneeled and prayed at the altar, but I didn't really think about why. I thought it was just more tradition than anything. In some religions they still do, but not so much in the Protestant church. In the bible it also says the Jews prayed three times a day, and we know the Muslims pray five times a day, in prostrated positions.

So what about me, what about you? When is the last time I kneeled and prayed, in public or private with complete understanding of why. How often do I pray? Where is my hope?

The bible puts it like this. "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land".

The bible has much to say about humility, but I must confess, it is so obvious and familiar, I missed it with understanding, as the key to God's heart.

Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6UAGhJHmOw

Every Morning....

What does your daily routine say about you? Are you where you want to be? Are you experiencing God afresh each new day? Are you excited about what life has in store for you? All good questions that we tend not to ask too often, until life forces us to reflect.

Think about new beginnings! They are so fresh and exciting! We have hopes and dreams, possibilities that we have yet to discover. We are excited, plan, and cherish each moment in its' freshness, like a loaf of fresh bread coming out of the oven, there is nothing quite like it!

Then we get older, life jumps in and we forget to surrender our days to the Lord. We get caught up in "life" and leave God out of our day. It happens oh so subtly, that we don't even realize it until we find ourselves at a point of lack, hurt, disillusion, perhaps even heartache, then we remember and turn back to God.

God's word puts it like this. 2 Corinthians "So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day". Lamentations 3:22 "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness". 

God promises to always be with us and encourages us to begin each new day with him. Though we make mistakes, get off track, or continue faithfully on the same path, when we leave room for God to show up, each day is fresh and exciting, because he will use us in ways we did not know.

A friend just posted a sign on the entrance to their summer home that said" Leave room in your garden for angels to dance"". To me that sums it up perfectly. If our daly routine is to invite God into our day, then we allow him to direct our footsteps, and he will keep the excitement in, as he guides and protects us along the way.

Psalm 121: 6-8 "The sun will not smite you by day, Nor the moon by night. The LORD will protect you from all evil; He will keep your soul. The LORD will guard your going out and your coming in From this time forth and forever".

Song.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qq2Tp3asLU8

One Step At A Time....

In reading this morning I came across an article about success and how to accomplish your goals. Two key elements given were small steps and daily discipline. In order to achieve an intended outcome it required consistency that was only achieved through daily steps without getting distracted with results, and given time, success would be inevitable.

The key was picking a task that was meaningful enough to make a difference, but simple enough to be sustainable over a long period of time.

As Christians, what are our goals?  Do we have a task that is meaningful enough to us that we want to accomplish? Are we taking daily steps to accomplish that goal? Are we stronger in our faith as a result of our faith in action?

We will all get discouraged somewhere along the way and consider the path of least resistance, what the bible describes as temptations, however if we have benchmarks of success, then we will be motivated to keep getting back up and pressing towards the intended outcome.

The bible puts it like this. Galatians 6:9 "So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up". 2 Thessalonians 3:13 As for the rest of you, dear brothers and sisters, never get tired of doing good".  Matthew 26:41 Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak."

Consistency over time...Example. Daily prayer and reading of the bible, start with 5 minutes and then do one thing each day to help someone else. Keep a one sentence daily journal of your actions and prayers and mark the answered ones and reflect on how reaching out to others has strengthened you in your daily walk. Over time, we will and do become stronger Christians if we do not give up....

Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdjRWniDshc

Lord We Wait For You...

How many have ever attempted to do something even though it appeared it was impossible or very unlikely, yet you continued on and low and behold things changed before your eyes as you kept walking towards your intended outcome. Peter got out of the boat to walk to Jesus and only began to sink when he started rationalizing that it was not possible in the natural. When our trust is in Jesus, he will makes all things possible.

Are you trusting God daily in what you attempt to do? Are you developing your spiritual muscles by letting go of your expected outcome and trusting God in your storm to make a way?

The other day I decided to go on a local cruise with a childhood friend as a fun outing before I left the state. As we watched the weather, the storms passed through, and it was uncertain whether or not we would sail. Even as we were within minutes of sailing the captain was uncertain if the weather would permit us to sail. Not being a big risk taker, I was fine with him saying it was too dangerous, yet with storms on the horizon, he said it was a go with an assurance that we wouldn't get too far out in case bad weather moved in.

As we set sail things seem to be getting worse instead of better and I began to have my doubts, but I was forced to trust his expertise, and since he was an old captain, I reassured myself based on his experience. Of course there was also a silent prayer of safety and protection in the storm.

As the sail continued the storm seemed to evaporate before our eyes and we experienced a glorious sunset and setting of the moon in extremely cool weather to boot. We were blessed with a chance to trust God in the storm and experience his beautiful creation in a way that is hard to miss on a sail boat.

Do you have uncertainty, unknown things that are lurking ahead of you? Are you being called out onto the water to walk in that uncertainty? Are you allowing normal fear to keep you from trusting God? Do you desire to do more and grow? If you are like me the answer is yes, yes and yes! Know you are not alone, but don't trust me, trust the God who made you and is right beside you each step of the way!

Deuteronomy 31:6 "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bb7TSGptd3Y

Small Steps....

Learning to trust God is a series of small steps and victories that builds one's faith. As we prepare to move, next week, one thing that has been on my heart is the size of the place we are moving to. We found a good location, in a price range we could afford and we are set to go, but it is a 1 bedroom.

Though this would work initially, my concern is it would be a bit confining over time and limit family to visit given the opportunity. So on my prayer list is provision for housing that is right for us, given all circumstances. Now no sooner had I placed this on my list and prayed about it, did I receive an email from our apartment complex stating there was an unprecedented problem with the apartment we were to move into next week, and in an attempt to meet the needs of everyone they were offering to give me a 2 bedroom with all the upgrades for the same price as my 1 bedroom instead, and for the whole year. Wow!!!!

You want to talk about an excited girl! Not just because I now get a 2 bedroom with the extra space desired, but because it is that extra boost of confidence that God hears our every prayer, even when it is minor!

I pray you are encouraged today to trust God, who hears your prayers. Romans 8:28 "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to {His} purpose".

Song: http://search.yahoo.com/search?ei=utf-8&fr=aaplw&p=song+god+is+good+all+the+time

Peace in the Storms

When speaking to my daughter yesterday I found myself giving her warnings about several different scenarios. "Make sure you are watching the stock market it is crashing, be careful driving this weekend there are a lot of wrecks on the 4th, there have been 6 shark attacks there in 3 weeks, don't get in the water, etc...and after a bit I caught myself and had to laugh and apologized for giving out such "good" news.

 If I live life in fear, then my actions would say I don't really trust God. Yes there is bad in the world and yes there are dangers and we do need to be aware, but then we need to prayerfully commit our ways to the Lord and trust him to protect us and guide us, in the midst of the storms of life.
Proverbs 3:6 "In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths".

When I look at the bible it says that Jesus walked and traveled in difficult times. He also prayed daily and trusted for God's soverign guidance in his life as he fulfilled his destiny.

How about you? Do you respond like me without even realizing it and speak fear, or do you prayerfully seek God's protection in the midst of life's storms and trust him to guide your footsteps?

Listen to this song and be encouraged with me to seek God's face afresh each new day and trust him more.
http://search.yahoo.com/search?ei=utf-8&fr=aaplw&p=still+hillsong+united+with+lyrics

I Am Yours...

I have heard that in Africa and other developing countries Christianity is on the rise. I would dare say it may be in part, because there is a daily need that has them searching, given their current circumstances.

In the bible it states that it is hard for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God, because he depends on his riches and not God. Now if you are like me, I thought well I don't have to worry about that one, I'm not rich! Well having traveled overseas and now coming back to the U.S., I would dare say most all of us are rich to the point that we have all the comforts we need without having to pray for daily help.

Hmmm......how would your relationships be if you rarely communicated with the people you are supposedly in a relationship with? Can I have abundance and still have a close dependence on God? My observations and experience would say it is indeed hard and more difficult, because our daily needs are not dependent on a relationship with God.

Could it be that natural disasters in the last days would be to get people to turn to God, so that as many as possible would come to know him as their personal Savior before it was too late? Have you ever suffered a hardship or had a personal need that drew you closer to God as a result of it?

My prayer when returning to the U.S. is that I would not have to have lack, to appreciate my comforts. How about you? Are you thankful, appreciative and shinning bright to a hurting world, that is looking for answers?

Mark 9:50 puts it like this. "Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his saltness, wherewith will ye season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another".

May we continue to grow in Christ as his disciples, sharing and loving each other as a testament to Christ's love in us.

Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ujSGPxnIKc