Decision Making Scriptures

Proverbs 16:3
Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. 

Proverbs 16:9
In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.

James 4:14-15

Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.  Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that."

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."

Psalm 119:105 
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.

Proverbs 3:5-6 
Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.
Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.

Hebrews 11:6 
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

Romans 8:28 
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.


Dear Jesus,
This morning you woke me up praying for someone who has a big decision to make.  Lord, I pray they will seek You in this decision.  These scriptures You have taken me to are ones that point us in the right direction in our decision making.  Your Word tells us to seek You.  It tells us to trust You.  When we truly do that with our lives, we don't have to wonder if we are doing right or not.  Your peace will overcome us and we will know we are doing what You desire of us.  Lord, I pray for this one as they seek You to not have any roadblocks from the enemy.  I pray they will be in Your Word and on their knees listening to You.  Father, I am thankful for 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."  The key in this verse is that You know what is ahead for us.  We don't have to know.  We need to walk in faith with what You put before us.  Woo hoo!  I am claiming James 4:14-15.  Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.  Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that."  I pray for the one making the decision to do so also.  Your Will, Lord, Your Will.  Thank You Jesus for being My Promise Keeper!  Amen.

Nehemiah 8:10b - Joy of the Lord - Trading My Sorrows

"joy comes in the morning..."  The Lord gave that saying to Doc last week.  This morning when I woke up to him not being in bed I knew he had another bad night of pain.  This saying was the first thing that came to my mind.  "When will his joy come, Lord?  What morning will we see his pain lessen, Lord?"  OK, now I'm being a little crabby or whatever you want to call it.  I'm sorry, Lord.  I know in my mind that things have to happen in Your time.  I know in my mind that You are taking care of us.  I know in my mind that this is just a season of life we are in.  But...yes I did say that nasty word...but.  But hasn't there been enough pain in the last two weeks?  Are we missing a lesson here or what?  Are we missing an opportunity to do something for Your Glory?  Lord, I'm trying to be strong.  I'm trying to let people see Your Strength in me.  I'm trying for You to be glorified through me.  It's just so hard when you see someone you love in pain...pain that's not getting any better....pain that medication doesn't touch...pain of losing someone who you depended upon.  

I am claiming Nehemiah 8:10b.  "The joy of the Lord is my strength."  Today is the day for me to rely on His joy for my strength.  I read this morning, "The joy of the Lord becomes our strength as we realize that we can only come to God from where we are."  I am in a tough place of mourning over my Daddy's death and dealing with my husband's pain.  Life is not what it normally is.  (Although "normal" isn't something I usually consider for our life.)  Even though it is not "normal" it is what it is for this season of life.  I have to allow the Lord to love on me and restore my joy.  In Nehemiah the Israelites were returning to the Lord.  It was an exciting day not only on this earth but also in heaven as all rejoiced over their salvation.  The desire of my heart is for rejoicing in heaven over me realizing I need to depend upon "the joy of the Lord for my strength."  Psalm 30:5b reads, "Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning."  As I think about these words, I'm encouraged that "morning" will come.  I know that in my mind and in my heart.  I'm claiming the words to the song "Trading My Sorrows."

I'm trading my sorrow
I'm trading my shame
I'm laying them down for the joy of the Lord

I'm trading my sickness
I'm trading my pain
I'm laying them down for the joy of the Lord

[Chorus:]
And we say yes Lord yes Lord yes yes Lord
Yes Lord yes Lord yes yes Lord
Yes Lord yes Lord yes yes Lord Amen

I'm pressed but not crushed persecuted not abandoned
Struck down but not destroyed
I'm blessed beyond the curse for his promise will endure
And his joy's gonna be my strength

Though the sorrow may last for the night
His joy comes with the morning

I am saying "yes" to whatever the Lord needs of me in order for me to see His joy again.  I'm saying "yes" to whatever He needs to do in me for me to be His servant in a greater way.  Yes, "I'm pressed but not crushed"...these last two weeks have been very tough but I know I have the Lord's strength to rely on.  I love the part, "I'm blessed beyond the curse for his promise will endure; And his joy's gonna be my strength..."  Woo hoo!  The Lord has blessed me in so many ways even through the turmoil.  The words from people, the cards of encouragement, the calls, the food...all the ways He has used people has blessed me greatly.

Dear Jesus,

I am saying "YES" to whatever You need.  Lord, if I am missing an opportunity to be You to someone or an opportunity for people to see You glorified through me please forgive me.  I praise You Lord for being here for me.  Thank You Jesus for being My Joy!  Amen.

Philippians 4:14-20 - Renewed and Refreshed

The Lord took me to Philippians 4:14-20 this morning.

¹⁴ Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. ¹⁵ Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; ¹⁶ for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. ¹⁷ Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. ¹⁸ I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. ¹⁹ And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. ²⁰ To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

I can so relate to this passage.  We are being blessed over and over with people dropping off food, gift cards, etc.  God is really blessing me with giving people words for me that touch me greatly.  People are definitely sharing our tough days with us.  I totally agree with verse 17.  "Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account."  It's not that we are desperate for meals but it sure helps to not have to think about such things.  People blessing me with things is really blessing me because they are being Jesus to us.  I can just imagine Him looking down and being so proud of them. I am sure the words on His lips are, "Well done, good and faithful servant!"  

So many times in the past the Holy Spirit would prompt me to drop food off to someone and I would comply.  Now I am on the other end of things.  I will say it is easier to be on the giving end than the receiving end.  It's hard to accept.  When asked, I tell people we don't need anything.  I can think of all sorts of reasons as to why I say that....people are busy with their own lives, I am capable of making our meals myself, etc.  But then I think of all the times I've said, "You don't want to deprive me of my blessing do you?" when I would give to others.  So I need to accept whatever blessings the Lord has in store for us. I need to take this time to get renewed and refreshed in order to be able to be a blessing to others again.

Dear Jesus,

I know You already know this but these are some tough days for us.  As if Doc's surgery wasn't enough then my Daddy's death just four days afterwards has been really tough.  This surgery for Doc has been so different and that makes life tough too.  Father, I want to thank You for all the blessings You are giving us.  I ask that You renew and refresh me, Lord.  I also pray for my husband to be renewed and refreshed not only in his physical body but in his emotional body.  Thank You Jesus for being My Refresher!  Amen.

Philippians 4:13 - Seeing The Cup Half Full

One of the lessons I learned from my earthly Daddy was to see the cup half full instead of half empty.  He taught me to keep going when I didn't feel like I had the strength.  He also taught me to lean on the Lord's strength at all times.  When my Heavenly Daddy gave me Philippians 4:13 as I was going through my MS diagnosis, my earthly Daddy reinforced it with me.  "Now Sheila Babe you can do this.  You are a fighter like me.  If I can fight to come back after being hit by a train, you can fight this disease."  At times when I was at my lowest it was my earthly Daddy who would encourage me to pick myself up and move.  

So here I am today...feeling very low and my earthly Daddy is not here to call me to encourage me to move.  I want to lay on the couch, cuddled under my blankie with my four-legged buddy and do nothing.  But I know my earthly Daddy would not be happy with me if I did.  He use to say, "It's ok to rest a bit but don't lay around or you will get bed sores."  LOL  

Today is the day I need to start living again in the way my earthly Daddy would want me to.  Today is the day I need to look around and see who I can encourage as he did.  Today is the day I need to lean more on my Heavenly Father's strength than ever before.  The loss of my earthly Daddy is so hard to deal with....maybe even harder than dealing with the MS.  His death is final as long as I'm on this earth but praise God I will see him again in heaven!  

Dear Jesus,
I am praying for Your Strength to fill me as I go throughout this day.  Lord, I don't know what this day holds but I know You are in control of it.  I praise You Lord for giving me an earthly Daddy who taught me so much while he was on this earth.  I praise You for being my Heavenly Daddy who loves me so greatly.  Lord, I want to see the cup half full and not half empty.  Open my eyes to blessings.  Open my eyes to opportunities to be Jesus to others today.  Use me Lord to encourage others.  I am claiming (once again) Philippians 4:13.  "I, Sheila, can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."  Thank You Jesus for being My Strength.  Amen.

Ephesians 4:1-6 - Live A Life To Be Worthy

My conversation with the Lord this morning...

ME:  Lord, how am I to go on without my Daddy?

LORD:  What do you mean, Daughter?  You have your earthly Daddy and you have your Heavenly Daddy.

ME:  I mean, how can I go on without ever talking to my earthly Daddy again or without ever having a hug from him?  I can't do this.  I gained so much strength from him.

LORD:  Daughter, I want to think about something.  I gave you many years with your Daddy.  He supported you, loved on you, and gave you a great example of how to depend upon My Strength through good and bad times.  He praised me no matter what he was going through. He was a great servant.  I need you to follow in his footsteps.  

ME:  But, Lord...

LORD:  No, Daughter.  No buts.  No excuses.  You are tired today.  You need to rest in me.  You need to think about what lies ahead for you while you are on the earth and once I call you home.  Your Daddy is loving his time in heaven.  If you want to do the same, you must follow his footsteps.  Read and ponder on Ephesians 4:1-6.  Your earthly Daddy lived a life worthy of being called home.  I need you to do the same.  Daughter, I know you have mixed emotions.  I know your sadness but I also know your happiness in knowing your Daddies are together.  Continue to make us proud.

¹ As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. ²Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. ³ Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. ⁴ There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— ⁵ one Lord, one faith, one baptism; ⁶ one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

Dear Jesus,

Thank you for this conversation today and for the scripture you have given to me.  Lord, would you please start at the tip of my head and go to the tip of my toes and restore my strength?  I am physically wiped out and don't even feel like I can function to do things as simple as making a meal.  Your Peace, Lord, in my body, mind, and soul are what I am asking for.  I thank You for all You've done for me these last few days and all that You will continue to do for me.  Bless me in abundance with a physical healing of strength.  Amen.

John 14:1-4 - Tough Days

Today was a day I never wanted to experience yet one that most of us do have to go through.  I thought I was doing "so good" keeping my emotions under control but that idea kind of went out the window a few times today.  Thankfully, my husband was there to remind me that releasing emotions during times like this is a good thing.  I am so thankful he was able to be with me.  Praise the Lord for the strength he was given to get through these days.  I praise the Lord for taking his headache away and for giving him a good night's sleep even with being away from home last night.  I praise the Lord for the awesome service which celebrated my Daddy's life.  My niece, Jasmin, did an awesome job not only in writing about Grandpa but then reading what she wrote.  I was so proud of my Lizzy who read scripture and my Paul who wrote an awesome tribute to his Grandpa.  Here are his words...

How does one describe the greatest man they've ever known.  Let me paint you a picture of him.  Picture a man with the strength of Samson and the heart of David.  Words like devoted, honest, hard working and greatest father don't do him justice.  Loving, giving and fellow Christian help describe him but don't get the job done either.  He was no Jesus, but to me he was pretty close to perfect.  I'm sure he made mistakes but.....I can't think of any.
 
I can only remember the good times.  I remember a man teaching me a how to use tools to fix, well, everything.  I remember a man who wanted to give me my first car but decided to make me pay for it to teach me to appreciate it.  This is the same man who opened his home and made me welcome, as he did for others before me.  And those few years were some of the best I've ever had.  Grandpa showed me how to be a good Christian man and he showed me with his actions how to be a good husband.  Whenever I asked him what keeps him and Grandma going for so long he would simply say, "just keep mommy happy".  I only hope I can emulate him and have as long and fulfilling marriage as he and Grandma have had.  A marriage that can see through financial difficulties, car accidents, train wrecks and even loss of friends and family.  The kind of marriage that can literally stand the test of time.
 
The thing is, I am deeply saddened by the loss of a great man.  But I am truly happy that his suffering and pain are now gone.  I have never been as sure about anything in my life as I am about him being in Heaven right now.  I'd like to think he is looking down at us right now and is proud of the way we are celebrating his life.  But I just don't think that's true.  I think he is too busy playing yukor with his friends and passing out hugs.  Oh how he liked to give hugs.  If there is a "hugger" in Heaven, well....move over because Claude McHenry just came into town.
 
Signed - a man proud to share your name.......Paul Eugene


Dear Jesus,
Today is in the middle of many tough days....the days where my Daddy's earthly body dwindled away and the days ahead where he will be greatly missed.  Father, please wrap Your loving arms around my Momma and give her comfort.  I also pray for each of us family members and his friends who will go through the grieving process.  Encourage us,  Lord, with happy memories. Once again, Lord, I am holding onto John 14:1-4.  “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.”  Father, I know You had a place prepared for my Daddy and for that I'm thankful.  I also know You have a place prepared for me and for that I'm thankful.  Being left here on this earth without my Daddy is difficult.  I'm not sure how I will handle it but I do know he taught me to be strong in You....to lean on Your strength.  So right now I need to tell You (even though You already know) I am wiped out...physically, mentally, emotionally....every bit of my being but I am thankful to have You Lord to restore me.  Thank You Jesus for being My Restorer!  Amen.

Deuteronomy 31:6 - "Where Do I Go?"

Yesterday was a tough day emotionally.  As we were sitting in the ER for Doc's head pain I asked him, "How am I doing?  I've never been through this before.  I don't know how I'm suppose to be."  His response was, "You are doing well considering all you are dealing with between your Daddy's death and my problems.  Many people would have already fallen apart."  I came close to falling apart yesterday morning but the Lord encouraged me through words of different people.  I was especially blessed last evening when Kari shared words the Lord gave her for me.

Your word: Daughter I love you and you are doing so well. I know it's a bit much right now... lean on My strength. I am with you.  Keep going as my daughter of the most high You are a threat to the prince of lies who wants to drag you down and feel overwhelmed and defeated  but keep flying on my wings as I take you above the mountains heights.  They are a camouflage of mole hills that really exist. Take my hand as I walk you through the waters. You will be refilled and strengthened and stronger as you keep going forth. Peace I give to you.

Wow!  Those are some very encouraging words.  I didn't understand the "camouflage of mole hills" but after Doc and I talked about it I did.  The Lord wants me to realize things that seem like mountains are truly only mole hills.  "Take my hand as I walk you through the waters" is an affirmation of what the Lord gave me a few weeks ago about walking through muddy waters.  I can see how what I'm going through would be considered "muddy"...lol.   I am so thankful for these words that were given for me and thankful for Kari who shared them with me.

A little while later Lizzy shared with me something from Lysa TerKeurst...

Over time I've learned that God Himself comes to us personally when we're afraid or grieving.  Even when we can't process what life throws at us, we can know that God stays with us in our grief.  He never leaves no matter how messy our grief gets.

Wow!  Another good word to ponder.  I've wondered why Daddy's death had to happen at the same time as Doc's surgery.  I've even asked God "why" is Doc going through all these problems.  Doc keeps reminding me that God has a reason for everything but when you are going through these days it's difficult.  My Daddy was my biggest cheerleader...my biggest encourager...one that always loved me no matter what.  Then Doc came into my life and he started the same.  These last few days without either of them by my side has been rough.  Doc said that maybe God wanted me to see just how strong I was without them.  I want to hold my hands up and say, "OK God, I get it.  Now can I have Doc with me?"  When I think about it though, I must admit that the Lord has been there as my cheerleader, encourager and loving on me...woo hoo!

Dear Jesus, 

I am so blessed by You!  I love You so much!  I praise Your Holy Name for all the ways You shower me with Your love!  Father, I am holding onto Deuteronomy 31:6 today.  "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.”  Lord, I need Your strength and your courage to get through today and tomorrow.  You reminded me in my dream last night that when I see my Daddy's body, he is not there.  He is with you rejoicing in heaven.  Thank You for that reminder.  You also woke me up singing "Where Do I Go" which I believe is Your way of reminding me to stay close to You.  Thank You for all of the words given to me by others and by Yourself during these days.  Thank You Lord for being My Heavenly Daddy.  Amen.

Where do I go?  When I need a shelter?
Where do I go?  When I need a friend?
Where do I go?  When I need some helping?
Where do I go?  Back on my knees again

Ask me this question, I’ll tell you no lie
How did I get this fire in my life
All is not certain, but I will get by
Listen I’ll tell you why

Sure as the winter comes after the fall
Sure as true love tears down any wall
Oh, my Jesus is able to carry it all
He will answer our call

"Cinderella"

Yesterday as we were going through pictures I found one of me and my Daddy dancing at Ben and Emily's wedding.  We were having a good time...the smile on his face was awesome!  This morning Steven Curtis Chapman's song "Cinderella" played on KLOVE and I fell apart.  Lord, help me to remember the happy memories and enable me to get these emotions under control.  The words of this song go...

She spins and she sways
To whatever song plays,
Without a care in the world.
And I'm sitting here wearing
The weight of the world on my shoulders.

It's been a long day, and there's still work to do.
She pulling at me saying, "Dad, I need you.
There's a ball at the castle, and I've been invited.
And I need to practice my dancing.
Oh, please. Daddy, please."

So I will dance with Cinderella,
While she is here in my arms.
'Cuz I know something the prince never knew.
Oh I will dance with Cinderella.
I don't want to miss even one song
'Cuz all too soon, the clock will strike midnight...
And she'll be gone.

She says he's a nice guy, and I'd be impressed.
She wants to know if I approve of the dress.
She says, "Dad, the prom is just one week away.
And I need to practice my dancing.
Oh, please. Daddy, please."

So I will dance with Cinderella,
While she is here in my arms.
'Cuz I know something the prince never knew.
Oh, oh, oh I will dance with Cinderella.
I don't want to miss even one song.
'Cuz all too soon, the clock will strike midnight...
And she'll be gone
She will be gone.

She came home today, with the ring on her hand,
Just glowing and telling us all they had planned.
She says, "Dad, the wedding's still six months away.
But I need to practice my dancing.
Oh, please. Daddy, please."

So I will dance with Cinderella,
While she is here in my arms.
'Cuz I know something the prince never knew.
Oh, oh,oh I will dance with Cinderella.
I don't want to miss even one song.
'Cuz all too soon, the clock will strike midnight...
And she'll be gone.

Thank You Jesus for giving me an earthly Daddy who made me feel like a Cinderella!

Matthew 6:9-13 - The Lord's Prayer

The Lord's Prayer Words

(traditional)

Our Father, which art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy Name.
Thy Kingdom come.
Thy will be done on earth,
As it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive them that trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,

The power, and the glory,

For ever and ever.

Amen.

I remember as a little girl going to Grandma and Grandpa's house and hearing them recite the Lord's Prayer at bedtime.  Most recently when I would be at Mom and Dad's house I would relive that experience as they did the same.  What memories...what a legacy...how awesome to see faith lived out in those you love.  

"Thy will be done on earth, As it is in heaven..."  That's what happened Saturday morning.  The pain in my Daddy's head was gone because there is no pain in heaven.  Woo hoo!  

"Give us this day our daily bread..."  My Daddy didn't go to bed at night until Momma read scripture for them.  He didn't get through his day without praying several times.  What an example he left for those of us still on this earth.

Scripture comforts me during this time of letting go of my Daddy.  Revelation 21:4 describes heaven as,  ^"‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."  My Daddy is finally out of pain.  He is at rest just as Revelation 14:13 describes.  "Then I heard a voice from heaven say, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.”  “Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.”  I am also comforted in Jesus' Words in John 14:1-4.  “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.”  When my earthly Daddy was with us, he knew he would spend eternity in heaven with His Heavenly Father.  When My Heavenly Father called his name, there was no doubt that he was ready to go.

As I think about the next few days, I don't know how I will get through them.  But I know I am not on my own.  I know I have my Heavenly Daddy's strength.  I don't want to go through them but yet I know it's all part of the grieving process.  I must keep in my mind that it's not "good-bye" but rather it's "see you in a while."  It's just so hard to think about never hearing my Daddy's voice on the phone asking me how I'm doing.  It's so hard to think about never having another hug from him....never hearing him say "Sheila Babe."

We've been grieving for the last couple of years.  At first, I grieved because he was no longer able to come to our home.  Then I grieved because he was no longer able to get in the car and drive himself somewhere.  Then I grieved because he was no longer in the kitchen making some of his good soup, meat loaf or potato salad.  At Christmas we grieved because he wasn't up to having us all at the same time.  Then the grieving continued as Hospice came in.  All of these months of grieving yet we still have the tears flowing from time to time.

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for your strength during these tough days.  I praise You Lord for being My Heavenly Father.  Thank You Jesus for all the years I had with my earthly Daddy and for all the things he taught me.  I praise You for godly parents.  Lord, these next few days are going to be tough, especially with Doc in his condition.  Would you bless us mightily with Your strength?  Would you please keep my MS under control through all of this?  I praise You, Lord for being so wonderful to me.  Amen.

Philippians 4:13 - My Daddy

"I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength."  Philippians 4:13

So many songs going through my mind...what a comfort they are during tough times.  


"What a day that will be, when my Jesus I shall see..."  
"I can only imagine, what it will be like...."
"I will rise when He calls my name, no more sorrow, no more pain..."

Thank You Jesus for loving me enough to bless me with such a wonderful earthly Daddy.  I'm sure the reason it is so easy to have a close relationship with my Heavenly Daddy is because of how close I was to my Earthly Daddy.

I wonder what my Daddy did when he got to heaven....did he run and look for loved ones? Did he bow down before the Lord?  Did he take off dancing?  Did he look for someone to help or be a friend to?  Whatever he did, I know he did it with a joyful spirit.  I know whatever he did it was with a loving spirit.  What a wonderful man to have on this earth for almost 88 years!  As we reflect back on his life, it wasn't a bed of roses by any means.  But it was filled with a strong faith in the Lord.

So many times when I felt like I couldn't handle the MS anymore I would hear, "Sheila Babe, now you know you can do it."  On days when he would call and I'd be on the couch he would tell me to "just rest and it will get better.  But remember you can't lay around all the time because you'll get bed sores."  LOL  Yes, that's the Daddy who was my encourager.  When I feel like I can't go on, I think of his 60+ surgeries, the way he beat cancer, surviving being shot and being hit by a train....so much for one man to live through.  Yet he kept on.

These last few months have been tough as we watched his body deteriorate.  The decisions we had to make and the not knowing when his time on this earth would be over were hard.  A couple weeks ago as we were in town to pick up a chair I ran in just for a hug and kiss.  It seemed kind of silly at the time since I couldn't stay. But now I'm so thankful for those few minutes.  I'm thankful for the last conversation I had with him on the phone just a couple days before he was gone from this earth.  I'm thankful for my cousin who gave him the phone that day.  I'm thankful for his aide Sherrie who was there with Mom when his time was over.  I'm thankful for my friend Norma who went to her when I called.  It's been so hard to not be in Orrville but it's been easier knowing I have people to call upon.

Today was a day of firsts....
...the first day my Momma woke up with her husband gone after 66 years of marriage.
...the first morning of not calling to see how my Daddy's night went.

There are some tough days ahead but I know we will get through them because of our relationship with the Lord.  It's only been a few days ago that I cried out to the Lord and begged Him to show my Daddy mercy.  He answered that prayer and for that I'm grateful.  I will miss him greatly but I'm thankful I know I will see him again.  I know if he were here, he'd tell me to keep on.  

I didn't always make my Daddy proud of me and for that I'm sorry.  But I did always let him know I love him and for that I'm thankful.

Dear Jesus,
You now have my earthly Daddy with you.  Thank You for having mercy.  A few weeks ago when I prayed for the situation you told me there was someone in the family who needed You in their life and You were using the situation for that.  I don't know of anyone who came to know you recently but I pray someone did.  I pray his suffering didn't go in vain.  I have a picture in my mind of You and my Daddy having a wonderful time together up there in heaven.  I pray I will make You both proud of me.  Thank You Jesus for the strength to get through this tough time.  Would you remind him that I love him?  Would you let him know we are going to celebrate his birthday just as he wanted with people stopping to see him and having a cookie?  Would you tell him I miss him and I will see him again?
Amen.

Matthew 6:10 - "How Great Is Our God"

The dictionary gives the definition of  a miracle as:  "an extraordinary event manifesting divine intervention in human affairs; an extremely outstanding or unusual event, thing or accomplishment."  I am so excited to be a part of a couple miracles recently.  One is the restoration process of Kari's hearing and the other is the healing inside a womb.  A couple have tried and tried to conceive.  Not long ago they asked for prayer and within weeks they found they were pregnant.  The first ultrasound showed the baby wasn't forming right and they were told the baby would probably be lost.  How devastating for this couple.  But their faith was strong and once again they asked for prayer.  I got the Holy Spirit goosebumps yesterday as the results of the ultrasound were shared with me.  The baby is growing...has arms and legs and a strong heartbeat.  Wow Lord You are awesome!  You are powerful!  You are mighty!  You definitely lived up to the definition of this being a miracle!  You showed us how the power of pray can change circumstances we may think are hopeless.  You were revealed through that ultrasound yesterday.  

Yesterday I also prayed for a miracle in another situation I am going through.  I prayed for the Lord to show mercy with one.  As I cried out to the Lord, not only did I seek a miracle with this situation but I also needed peace with it.  I praise His Holy Name for providing peace as I wait for this miracle to unfold.  Thank You Jesus for bringing Chris Tomlin's song "How Great Is Our God" to my lips.  "Name above all names; Worthy of our praise; My heart will sing; How great is our God."  Woo too!  YES!  You are so great!  I love when we sing this at church and go into the old hymn "How Great Thou Art"...woo hoo!  The last verse of this hymn is so exciting!  "When Christ shall come, With shouts of acclamation, And take me home, What joy shall fill my heart! Then I shall bow; In humble adoration; And there proclaim, "My God, how great Thou art!"  Wow...that will be one exciting time!

Dear Jesus,

I pray for this couple to continue to seek You.  I pray for this baby to continue to grow inside the womb.  I praise You Lord for giving us a glimpse of heaven while we are still on this earth.  Lord, please continue to bless us in this way.  These miracles encourage us in a mighty way.  Your Word tells us in Matthew 6:10, "your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven."  Woo hoo!  Thank You Jesus for all you are doing to fulfill this scripture!  Lord, as I prayed yesterday for mercy for this one I am praying again.  I pray for Your Will.  Thank You Jesus for being My Miracle Maker!  Amen.

How Great Is Our God - Chris Tomlin

The splendor of a King, clothed in majesty
Let all the earth rejoice
All the earth rejoice

He wraps himself in Light, and darkness tries to hide
And trembles at His voice
Trembles at His voice

How great is our God, sing with me
How great is our God, and all will see
How great, how great is our God

Age to age He stands
And time is in His hands
Beginning and the end
Beginning and the end

The Godhead Three in One
Father Spirit Son
The Lion and the Lamb
The Lion and the Lamb

Name above all names
Worthy of our praise
My heart will sing
How great is our God

How great is our God, sing with me
How great is our God, and all will see
How great, how great is our God

How Great Thou Art

Lyrics ~ Carl Boberg, 1859 - 1940

English Translation ~ Stuart K. Hine, 1899 - 1989

Stanza 1:

O Lord my God,

When I in awesome wonder

Consider all

The world Thy Hand hath made,

I see the stars,

I hear the rolling thunder,

Thy pow'r throughout

The universe displayed; 

Refrain:

Then sings my soul,

My Saviour God, to Thee,

How great Thou art!

How great Thou art!

Then sings my soul,

My Saviour God, to Thee,

How great Thou art!

How great Thou art!

Stanza 2:

When through the woods

And forest glades I wander

I hear the birds

Sing sweetly in the trees;

When I look down

From lofty mountain grandeur

And hear the brook

And feel the gentle breeze;

Refrain:

Stanza 3:

And when I think,

That God, His Son not sparing;

Sent Him to die,

I scarce can take it in;

That on the Cross,

My burden gladly bearing,

He bled and died

To take away my sin.

Refrain:

Stanza 4:

When Christ shall come,

With shouts of acclamation,

And take me home,

What joy shall fill my heart!

Then I shall bow

In humble adoration

And there proclaim,

"My God, how great Thou art!"

Matthew 11:28-29 - "Promises"

This morning when I read Psalm 121 and prayed for different ones I didn't realize how much I myself was going to need Psalm 121 today.  What a tough day but I am thankful the Lord was with me every step of the way.  This morning as I received some tough news the Lord brought to my lips Chris Tomlin's "I Will Rise."  "Theres a peace I've come to know; Though my heart and flesh may fail; There's an anchor for my soul; I can say 'It is well'..."  Thank You Jesus for the reminder of You being my peace in such a trying time.  Thank You Lord for allowing me to have my emotional melt-down and then giving me strength to carry on with my day.  I also want to thank You, Lord, for giving me Sanctus Real's song "Promises" as I drove home this afternoon.  

Dear Jesus,

I am holding onto Your promises on this roller coaster of life.  I am claiming Your Peace during times of stress.  Thank You Jesus for using music to comfort me today.  I praise You, Lord, for giving me Psalm 121 this morning.  Father, I am praying Matthew 11:28-29 tonight.  "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."  Woo hoo!  Thank You Lord for being My Rest!  Amen.

2 Peter 1:4

And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires.

Jeremiah 29:11

For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.

Matthew 11:28-29

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

Isaiah 40:29-31

He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.
Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion.
But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.

Philippians 4:19

And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.

Romans 8:37-39

No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.

And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Proverbs 1:33

But all who listen to me will live in peace, untroubled by fear of harm.”

John 14:27

“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.

Promises - Sanctus Real

Sometimes it's hard to keep believing
In what you can't see
That everything happens for a reason
Even the worst life brings
If you're reaching for an answer
And you don't know what to pray
Just open up the pages
Let His word be your strength

And hold on to the promises (Hold tight)
Hold on to the promises (Alright)
Jesus is alive so hold tight
Hold on to the promises

All things work for the good
Of those who love God
He holds back nothing that will heal you
Not even His own Son
His love is everlasting
His faithfulness unending
Oh, if God is for us who can be against us
So if you feel weak

Neither life, nor death
Could separate us
From the eternal love
Of our God who saves us