Psalm 17; Philippians 4:13; II Timothy 1:7; Exodus 14:13-14;; Joshua 1:9 - "For The Good"

The Lord took me to Psalm 17 this morning. It is divided into three sections in The Passion Translation. Hear Me...Hide Me...Help Me. David was seeking more of God and desiring to live more as God desired of him when he wrote this Psalm. He petitioned God to not only hear him but to take care of him. The final statement in the Psalm is the result of my daily prayer when I ask God to cleanse me so He can fill me. I will be satisfied in an awakening of your likeness in me! Being like Jesus is my life goal. I want to be seen and heard through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I want people to experience Him through me. The only way that can be accomplished is by allowing Him to be my King of Kings and Lord of Lords. There are some days it is harder to strive for than others. When it seems like all is falling apart in my little world or when I am overwhelmed by the burdens of others, I have the choice to make on pressing into His strength more or giving up. He reminds me frequently I do not have to do anything on my own strength but instead need to lean into His strength (Philippians 4:13). He also reminds me I do not have to fear the things that come against me but instead need to stand in His empowerment (II Timothy 1:16). Another reminder from the Lord is priceless and that is I am never alone in the battles of life that come my way (Joshua 1:9). Moses' words to the Israelites in Exodus 14:13-14 are just as applicable today as they were many years ago. “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Praise God for His Word that gives us many promises to hang onto! I am blessed as we begin a new day for the knowledge that everything we do can be of God when we allow Him to be in control of our life. No decisions need made without His direction. He will hear us...hide us...help us! Woo hoo! I am reminded this morning of the song "For The Good" that Riley Clemons sings and feeling very blessed.

For the good, for the good
You work all things together
For the good, for the good
Your promise stands forever
You alone are my greatest hope
I trust You on the broken road
You work all things together like only You could
For the good

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for the promises found in Your Word and the way You use Your Word to encourage us! Thank You for another day of life and the way You are going to use Doug and I to further Your Kingdom! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You, May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray Your strength over many going through difficult days. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Marion; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; Ashley Foor; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Audrey; Katelyn; Chrissy's cousin; Shirley Jones; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff's husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; and Damon who was recently diagnosed with nasal cancer. I pray for: my friend who had a stroke, the Long Family, Becky, Russ, a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues, and my friend Rosemary. Thank You for continued healing for: Pastor Tommy and Pam. I praise You for continued reconciliation for a father and his prodigal daughter. Thank You for being My Promise Keeper! Amen.

Romans 8:28 - "The Blessing"

Yesterday was full of blessings from start to finish. I could feel God's arms wrapped around me throughout the day in some pretty amazing ways. Having my tax appointment and getting the final result of owing half what I anticipated was so exciting. Knowing we continue to have a game plan from Doug's doctor appointment was encouraging. I'm so thankful Dr. Widmer sent him to Dr. Julie. Spending the afternoon at the church working on various projects was rewarding. One of the best parts of my day was seeing ten children sitting around the table for activities. Woo hoo! What a blessing! I was reminded yesterday that God's timing is always the right time. I shared with the adults last night that I had a conversation with God about this week's sermon. In my mind it would have made more sense to have this one before some of the others in the "Moving Forward" series. I told God people were going to think I had lost my mind with presenting in this order. His response every time I was complaining was, ‘It doesn’t matter, Daughter. Carry on.’ Alrighty then. That is exactly what I will do. When I shared this last night, one shared that His timing was perfect because of what she gained from the last couple of sermons. God's timing is perfect. We, in our humanness, can fret over the 'what ifs' of life. We can try to manipulate circumstances to be as we desire. We can say and do things we 'think' are needed. The bottom line is when God is in the center of all we do and say things will go as He desires. What stops His way is when we exercise free will and go outside of His desires. Shame on us but it will happen because He gives us that to exercise. I am reminded this morning of Paul's words in Romans 8 and feeling very blessed. God calls each one of us to be who He desires us to be. Some are called to be preachers and teachers while others are called to be laypeople. The thing we must remember is we are all called to further His Kingdom on this earth one way or another. He pours His love into us so we can pour His love into others. This picture was taken last week when Doug was visiting. I love the way the sun is shining down on us because we can feel the love of the Son shining down on us. We are experiencing great blessings from God and are so thankful for each and every one of them. I am reminded this morning of a song Kari Jobe sings called "The Blessing" and feeling very blessed...

May His favor be upon you
And a thousand generations
And your family and your children
And their children, and their children

May His presence go before you
And behind you, and beside you
All around you, and within you
He is with you, He is with you

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday with my tax appointment, Doug's doctor appointment, the work accomplished at the church in the afternoon, having ten children for activities last night, and for the adult Bible study! Wow, God! You bless me in abundance and for that I am grateful! Thank You for the blessings ahead today. I anticipate many opportunities to love with Your love. I anticipate Your presence in my life throughout the day in a mighty way. Cleanse me so You can fill me so I do not miss anything from You. Go before me and open doors that need opened and shut doors that need shut. I pray Your strength over many going through difficult days. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Marion; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; Ashley Foor; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Audrey; Katelyn; Chrissy's cousin; Shirley Jones; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff's husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; and Damon who was recently diagnosed with nasal cancer. I pray for: my friend who had a stroke, the Long Family, Becky, Russ, a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues, and my friend Rosemary. Thank You for continued healing for: Pastor Tommy and Pam. I praise You for continued reconciliation for a father and his prodigal daughter. Thank You for being My Blessing! Amen.

Psalm 5 - "You Will Be Found"

God hears every prayer we give Him. The ones we speak. The ones we think. The unspoken ones. Sometimes we pray for something over and over and feel like He isn't listening because He doesn't answer us right away. We must remember God's time is not always what we think is what we want but we can be assured it is the best time. This week has been full of prayer requests. There have also been praises along the way. I shared with Doug about how God reminded me I need to not allow the hurts of life to overpower the joys of life. The tears fell when I shared with him a burden on my heart. His response was praying with me over the phone. That prayer not only gave me peace but it enlightened me to think in a different way about the burden. Prayer is crucial in our relationship with God. We must have communication with Him. That communication is not for His benefit because He already knows all but it is for our benefit. Sometimes we need to think things through or talk things out in order to get a better grasp on the situation we are facing. Psalm 5 encourages us to bring our requests before the Lord each morning and wait upon Him. My mornings start out a lot earlier than they used to which is strange yet have become a comfortable normal for me. No matter what time I wake I am blessed through my time with praying, reading His Word, and writing what He gives me. A day is not 'right' without these activities to start it off. David was crying out to the Lord in Psalm 5. Some mornings are cries for help not only for myself but especially for others. The thing I try to always do even in the midst of the cries for help is to praise Him. I am reminded of the acronym for pray. Praise. Repent. Ask. Yield. When we start each day with this mindset, God will be blessed. I heard a song Natalie Grant and Cory Asbury sings called "You Will Be Found" and thought about all the people in my little world who are struggling. Some of them are in relationship with God and others are not. God put me where I am today to show people how to love and depend upon Him. I am so grateful for the opportunities He gives me every day to love on people. As I reflect on my life I realize just how instrumental He was over the last sixty-one plus years to take adversity and turn each one into teaching moments. It all comes back to trusting Him and allowing Him to have control over my life. 

Even when the dark comes crashing through
When you need a friend to carry you
And when you're broken on the ground
You will be found
So let the sun come streaming in
'Cause you'll reach up and you'll rise again
Lift your head and look around
You will be found

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday with the many times Doug prayed with me, my visit with Sierra and Billy, traffic court time being behind me, my Momma receiving the blood she needed, and my conversation with Amy that blessed me greatly! Thank You for the day ahead and for the opportunities You will put before me to love with Your love! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. There are so many people on my prayer list struggling with life issues. May they experience Your empowerment. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Marion; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; Ashley Foor; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Audrey; Katelyn; Chrissy's cousin; Shirley Jones; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff's husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; and Damon who was recently diagnosed with nasal cancer. I pray for: my friend who had a stroke, the Long Family, Becky, Russ, a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues, and my friend Rosemary. Thank You for continued healing for: Pastor Tommy and Pam. I praise You for continued reconciliation for a father and his prodigal daughter. Thank You for being My Joy Maker! Amen.

Psalm 25 - "Draw Me Close"

The Lord took me to Psalm 25 this morning. David wrote these words of praise to God for all to learn from. His praises were uplifted to God in a time when he was overwhelmed by his enemies. He realized God is the answer to living in this cruel world. People hurt and disappoint but God does not. Verse sixteen shows David's distress in being lonely and hurt. He cried out to God for His love and mercy. When we feel alone, we must remember Jesus' words in Matthew 28:20 that He is always with us. We must cling to Hebrews 13:5 where we are assured He will always be with us. Verse two of Psalm twenty-five tells us as we trust Him He will be with us in trying times. I had an opportunity yesterday to have a conversation with one who is very lonely. I wish I would have had Psalm 25 in my mind to share with them. Maybe God brought it to me this morning for future conversations. It is hard to share with someone not in relationship with God when they are feeling lonely. It is much easier to share God with someone who has experienced Him. I must remember God prepares people's hearts for such conversations. Many times it is when people are at their lowest they are most receptive to listening about God. David shows us many emotions in Psalm 25. He was hurt and lonely yet He was seeking God. No matter what is happening in life we need to remember God desires to be in charge. He desires every decision we make to made with His wisdom. He desires every word that comes from our mouth and every thought that goes through our mind to be from Him. It is amazing to think that David wrote this Psalm years before Jesus came to this earth. They did not have an opportunity to meet Him in the physical sense as those alive when He walked this earth. We do not have that opportunity either yet we can experience Him when we accept Him into our heart and surrender our life to Him. As we live a life trusting Him we will receive more of His love, mercy, and grace each and every day. I am reminded this morning of one of the songs Clay led on Sunday, "Draw Me Close" and feeling very blessed with the knowledge that God is all we need. He is the soothing balm when we hurt. All we have to do is open our hearts up to Him.

You're all I want
You're all I've ever needed
You're all I want
Help me know You are near

Dear Jesus, Thank You for Your love, mercy, and grace that You pour down upon me every day! Thank You for giving me words to share with those who are hurting! Thank You for putting Doug in my life who has taken away my loneliness! Thank You for my time seeing Rebecca and the kids yesterday morning and spending time with my three little guys in the afternoon! 

Thank You for the laughter around my table last night with Brooklyn, Cait, Alex, and the kids! Thank You for Psalm 25 that reminds me You are always here for me! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May You pour out of my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts today in a new, different way. I pray You will calm my spirit as I go to court and give me clarity with my words. I pray You will be so real to many going through 'tough' days. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Marion; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; Ashley Foor; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Audrey; Katelyn; Chrissy's cousin; Shirley Jones; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff's husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; and Damon who was recently diagnosed with nasal cancer. I pray for: my friend who had a stroke, the Long Family, Becky, Russ, a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues, and my friend Rosemary. Thank You for continued healing for: Pastor Tommy and Pam. I praise You for continued reconciliation for a father and his prodigal daughter. Thank You for being My Soothing Balm! Amen.

Psalm 78 - "Healer"

God took me to Psalm 78 this morning to ponder upon. The first four verses were a warning to Israel to not do as their ancestors lived. Verses five through eight encouraged them to teach the generations to come about the way to live for God. Jesus used parables to teach while on this earth and continues to use them to teach all who read them in His Word. I love being a sponge with His Word. Every time I open it up I learn something new. It doesn't change but my mindset changes. The circumstances I find myself in can be different which in turn gives me a different set of eyes as I read it. When I see adults who were raised in a Christian home, I see many differences in them then those not raised in such a manner. Even if one only had God part-time in their life there is still a difference. The foundation set in our life that includes God is one that will build a stronger life. Such a foundation is one that finds peace in the midst of the storms of life. It finds God's love flowing instead of being stagnant. A strong foundation is one that is a blessing. I am so thankful for the foundation my parents had throughout my life. It was a foundation built on God's love that trusted Him with every aspect of life. No matter what happened in life their foundation never crumbled. There were some 'earthquakes' that may have made it move a bit but it never moved away from God. Instead the 'earthquakes' of life made our foundation stronger. How can that be possible? It is possible by the way my parents trusted God and taught me to trust Him. I remember not long ago making the old comment about life not being a bed of roses just because you follow God. The lightbulb came on as I thought about a bed of roses. Yes they are beautiful but they also prick you with their thorns. That is a good word picture of life. It can be beautiful but at the same time there are things/circumstances/people that cause you hurt. As you stand firm on God's foundation there will be beauty come from that hurt. The Israelites forgot all God did for them in the wilderness. We need to never forget all He does for us but instead need to rejoice for His love, mercy, and grace. Verse seven of Psalm 78 is key in how to not only live with the foundation of God as our life but to continue to stand firm when the 'earthquakes' happen in life. Trusting Him with our whole being is key. That means trusting Him with our checkbook, our calendar, our family...every aspect of our life. There are physical, mental, emotional, financial, relational, and spiritual needs represented on my prayer list. I pray for each and every one of them to realize the importance of having a firm foundation with God. I pray for all to realize His love to a greater degree than ever before and for all to receive healing. I am reminded this morning of the song "Healer" as I pray...

I believe You're my healer
I believe You are all I need
I believe
And I believe You're my portion
I believe You're more than enough for me
Jesus You're all I need

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for the challenges of the day that pulled me into You more than before! Thank You for having Doug in my life who prays with me through such challenges! Thank You for Cait's hug that I needed so badly when I was falling apart! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray for those going through difficult days to receive Your strength. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Marion; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; Ashley Foor; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Audrey; Katelyn; Chrissy's cousin; Shirley Jones; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff's husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; and Damon who was recently diagnosed with nasal cancer. I pray for: my friend who had a stroke, the Long Family, Becky, Russ, a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues, and my friend Rosemary. Thank You for continued healing for: Pastor Tommy and Pam. I praise You for continued reconciliation for a father and his prodigal daughter. Thank You for being My Earthquake Calmer! Amen. 

I Thessalonians 5:16-18 - "Amadeo"

Wow, does God ever come through in some big ways! He answered so many prayers yesterday. I prayed for... 

• ...physical strength to not just get through the day but to glorify Him through it. 
• ...people to come and buy from the church sale.
• ...workers and was blessed with many.
• ...contacts with people looking for a church.
• ...the rain to hold off until after sale.

He answers our prayers in different ways. Sometimes they are answered with a 'yes' and other times a 'no.' Sometimes they are answered in a different timing than we desire but He always answers them in His perfect timing. One of my biggest blessings yesterday was receiving texts every little bit from Doug encouraging me as he knew it would be a tough day. I am so thankful for him in my life and for the way God has him in tune with what I need. I am thankful that even though we are seven hundred miles apart he still takes care of me. The day ahead may be a bit challenging as I am tired and achy from yesterday. But it is my favorite day of the week and I refuse to allow the enemy to play havoc in my day. This morning I am praying for everyone who worked at the sale today to be renewed in their spirit. I pray for physical bodies to work in the midst of the pains. I pray for mental bodies to work in the midst of the tiredness especially for my brain and mouth to work together for preaching. Tiredness makes for interesting times when you deal with a disease such as MS but God is greater than those issues. I prayed during the night and again this morning for all pastors to have God's supernatural strength. I prayed for physical, mental, emotional, financial, and most of all the spiritual needs of all. I asked God to be so very real to all of us and bless us in abundance. Paul's words in I Thessalonians 5:16-18 remind me that no matter what is ahead in the day I need to praise God, continue to pray, and be thankful. Doug recently shared an acronym from one of John's sermons on prayer. Praise...Repent...Ask...Yield. This way of praying is based on the Lord's Prayer and can be followed by all. Sometimes we are without words and don't know how to pray but following something as this simple acronym will direct our prayers. I am reminded this morning of the words to the song "Amadeo" that Ryan Stevenson sings. Sometimes we pray and it seems like God doesn't hear our prayers yet we truly know He does. I am so thankful for this knowledge...

You are still my God
You're still my rock
My only hope Lord, You're all I've got
In every valley or mountaintop
I'll say hallelujah
You're still my God

Dear Jesus, Thank You Jesus for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for those who worked at the church sale...Amy and Andy; Jo Ann; Pastor Cait; Betty; John and Terri; Mike; and Debbie! Thank You for the way Doug encouraged me through texts throughout the day! Thank You for the way You provided strength, customers, contacts, etc.! Thank You for today being Sunday...my favorite day of the week! Thank You for providing strength for all who are tired from yesterday! I prayed during the night and again this morning for all pastors to have Your supernatural strength today. Some need a boost of physical strength while others are feeling pretty low emotionally. I pray You will be greater than the hurts of life for all. Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. Thank You for Tim being with Momma last night especially with the storms. I pray Your peace over her and others going through difficult days. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Marion; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; Ashley Foor; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Audrey; Katelyn; Chrissy's cousin; Shirley Jones; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff's husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; and Damon who was recently diagnosed with nasal cancer. I pray for: my friend who had a stroke, the Long Family, Becky, Russ, a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues, and my friend Rosemary. Thank You for continued healing for: Pastor Tommy and Pam. I praise You for continued reconciliation for a father and his prodigal daughter. Thank You for being My God! Amen.

Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Blessings"

Yesterday was one of those days where at the end of the day you are thankful for all that was accomplished as you fall into bed. I am one blessed lady with my church family. They love on me well and have such servant hearts. Getting ready for the sale was hard work and there had already been a lot of work that happened prior to yesterday. As I looked around all the 'mess' I was thankful for each person who donated items. As I watched people pricing items I was thankful for their servant heart. I prayed as I priced that God would bring people to the sale that would not only be blessed with bargains but that would bless the church with their generosity. As we ate lunch yesterday I thought about the verses God gave me this week as life verses for Doug and I. Trusting in God needs exercised every day. We need to trust Him so we can live as He desires. Trusting Him shows Him just how much we love Him. As I climbed into bed last night I thanked God for many things. Where He has me in our relationship is priceless. I thanked Him for bringing Doug into my life. I didn't realize just how much I needed someone beside me until this week. I thanked Him for the many prayers Doug says for me and over me. I thanked Him for the knowledge we will spend the rest of our lives together and this time of separation is short-term. I thanked God for once again for His love, mercy, and grace that empowers me to walk in obedience to His will. I am reminded this morning of a song Laura Story sings called "Blessings" and thanking God for every thing that has happened in my life that has molded me into the person I am today. I am thankful for the mountains and the valleys of life that have showed me how to love Him as He desires of me as I lean into His strength.

'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the many blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for Doug starting and ending my day praying with me! Thank You for my church family and their servant hearts! Thank You for all who are caring for my Momma! Thank You for the day ahead and for the people who will come to the sale and bless the church with their generosity! I pray we will make connection with people today to build our church family. Cleanse me so You can fill me with more of You. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. May Your strength be in abundance for all working today. I pray Your strength over many going through difficult days. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Marion; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; Ashley Foor; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Audrey; Katelyn; Chrissy's cousin; Shirley Jones; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff's husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; and Damon who was recently diagnosed with nasal cancer. I pray for: the Long Family, Becky, Russ, a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues, and my friend Rosemary. Thank You for continued healing for: Pastor Tommy and Pam. I praise You for continued reconciliation for a father and his prodigal daughter. Thank You for being My Greatest Blessing! Amen.

Proverbs 3:5-6; Romans 8:28 - "Great Is Thy Faithfulness"

Technology is great when you have 700 plus miles between you and loved ones. Being able to talk to my Momma anytime throughout the day without the worry of the expense is awesome. I remember every month when I was growing up my parents arguing over the phone bill being so high. My Daddy would get so upset with my Momma for it. At that point in life you had to pay by the minute for long distance phone calls. She only called her Momma once a week but the minutes added up on each call. Now there are multiple calls between me and my Momma daily. I can't even begin to imagine what our bills would look like. Phone calls between Doug and I are normally two to three hours in the evenings. Goodness I'm glad we no longer have charges by the minute. Last night's call was priceless with talking, him praying for us a couple times, and us singing "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" together. God is so faithful in the way He loves us. He is so faithful in providing exactly what we need to not just get through our days but to glorify Him through them. Yesterday morning when I dropped Doug off at the airport I expected sobs but instead there were just a few tears and a feeling of contentment and peace. That was definitely a 'God thing'! As we walk in the promise of Proverbs 3:5-6 we will continue to receive what God has in store for us. As we trust Him we will realize the desires of His heart in a deeper way than ever before. His strength will be greater than ever before the more we walk in obedience to His will. His love will be realized more each and every day as we allow Him to be our King of Kings and Lord of Lords. The words to this hymn we sang last night are so applicable to everyone's life who chooses to live for the Lord...

Great is thy faithfulness!
Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see;
all I have needed thy hand hath provided.
Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

Yes! He is faithful because He loves us so much. Morning by morning new mercies I see is for all. His love, mercy, and grace are for all who will accept Him. They are poured down upon all who will take the steps needed to live for Him. I am reminded this morning of Romans 8:28. It reads in the NKJV: And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. This does not mean that everything will be 'good' in life but it means when we walk in God's will we will experience more of His faithfulness than ever. Paul also points out that this is not for everyone but for everyone who is called according to His purpose. That means we must allow Him into our lives to receive His love, mercy, and grace in the manner He so desires. If we know God, if we trust Him with our lives, and if we are in that loving relationship with Him, we don’t need to worry about anything, and that’s because we know that God is ultimately in control. Surrender to Him is key in life.

Dear Jesus, Thank You for Your love, mercy, and grace! Thank You for Your faithfulness! Thank You for the days Doug and I had together here in my little world! Thank You for everyone who is helping care for my Momma! Thank You for friends who love on me well especially Clay, JoAnn, and Marlene! Thank You for the strength You are going to provide over these next few days of busyness! Cleanse me so You can fill me. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray Your strength over many going through difficult days. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Marion; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; Ashley Foor; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Audrey; Katelyn; Chrissy's cousin; Shirley Jones; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff's husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; and Damon who was recently diagnosed with nasal cancer. I pray for: the Long Family, Becky, Russ, a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues, and my friend Rosemary. Thank You for continued healing for: Pastor Tommy and Pam. I praise You for continued reconciliation for a father and his prodigal daughter. Thank You for being My Faithfulness! Amen.

Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Morning By Morning"

Yesterday was an emotional day with getting good results from my breast ultrasound, having an appointment with the estate attorney, taking care of some things involving my Momma's care, and it being Doug's last day here for this trip. Even though everything was good it still played havoc on my body. I crashed before church for an hour nap. When I woke, I thought about how many times emotions take over my physical body and cause issues. Those thoughts led to thoughts about how my physical and emotional beings can have issues but because of the way I depend upon the Lord my spiritual being stays intact and can even get stronger during such times. Yesterday morning's Scripture and song encouraged me to continue to trust Him no matter what the circumstances I find myself. At the same time I was writing yesterday morning Doug was writing, It is uncanny with the way God speaks to us about the same thing at the same time. I wrote of Proverbs 3:5-6 and he wrote, "But when you know the Holy Spirit is working through and guiding you in a direction that you must follow. Then do exactly that. Pray for guidance. Follow that path. Listen to His command. If you trust in Him, you will never walk alone. If he sets you on a path that you think you might not be able to go, He will guide you. He will lead you. He will protect you." God is so amazing! He was speaking to us both at the same time to trust Him and to allow Him to work in and through us. What a blessing Doug is in my life through God being my greatest blessing. Having Doug pray not only for me but with me is another blessing. Hearing him ask God to protect me while we are apart brings joy to my heart. Once again I am reminded it is all about trusing God. Last spring when I prayed for a man God told me He had one for me and it was someone I already knew. It took almost a year before God's plan was revealed. During that time I trusted him as I waited. I was not always in relationship with God where I could wait on Him as I do now. I use to get impatient and manipulate things to go my way. I would get in a rush and do things to make things go the way I desired instead of waiting on God. I am so thankful for my relationship with God now and the way I not only hear His voice but desire to walk in obedience to His will. I am thankful for the blessings along the way as I lean into the promises of His Word. This morning as I get ready to pick up Doug to take him to the airport I know the hours ahead are going to have tears falling as we part. I also know we will be 'ok' during the next twenty-five days until we are together again because we both will trust God in the process. I am reminded this morning of the song "Morning By Morning" that Pat Barrett sings.

I will trust where You lead
I will trust when I can’t see
Morning by morning
Great is Your faithfulness to me

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for all the ways You shower me with Your love! Thank You for another blessed day with Doug yesterday as we continued to do life together in my little world! Thank You for the 'good' ultrasound results, the 'good' appointment with the estate attorney, our fun time with lunch and the carriage ride, and another great Bible study with my church family last night! I was amazed at the way You spoke to Doug and I yesterday morning before we were together and then spoke to us throughout the day as we were together. Sometimes I just feel like I have to pinch myself to make sure this is real. Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray Your peace over many going through tough times. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Marion; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; Ashley Foor; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Katelyn; Chrissy's cousin; Shirley Jones; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff's husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; and Damon who was recently diagnosed with nasal cancer. I pray for: the Long Family, Becky, Russ, a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues, and my friend Rosemary. Thank You for continued healing for: Pastor Tommy and Pam. I praise You for continued reconciliation for a father and his prodigal daughter. Thank You for being My Blesser! Amen.

Proverbs 3 - "Honey In The Rock"

Life can be challenging and it can be fun. There are mountains and valleys to experience at any given time. The important thing we must remember is that God is with us at all time. Not only is He with us but He also wants to direct us in all decisions we make, what we do or say, etc. I woke up this morning with Proverbs 3:5-6 on my mind. Trusting God is key if we want to walk in His will. This chapter begins with us to remember what we have been taught. I am so thankful for the foundation I have in my life from being taken to Sunday school as a little girl. I also am thankful for the way my parents modeled trusting God through many mountains and valleys. Another reminder we receive is in verse three. It reads in The Voice: Stay focused; do not lose sight of mercy and truth; engrave them on a pendant, and hang it around your neck; meditate on them so they are written upon your heart. I love having Scripture memorized that I can say or think about in times of need. I also love how God brings Scipture to my mind every morning to ponder upon. I also love the knowledge that I do not have to make any decisions on my own but instead can allow Him to have freedom in my life to make all decisions. Verse seven in The Voice reads: And don’t think you can decide on your own what is right and what is wrong. Respect the Eternal; turn and run from evil. The more we trust Him and allow Him to be in control of our life the more we will realize His will for our life. Verse eight continues talking about the blessings we will receive from such a life. These words found in The Voice are priceless:

God knows well what He is doing. He has established rewards for living wisely: A happy, long life. A good reputation. Guidance when you need it most. Health. Success. Even, dare we say, fatherly discipline. These are just a few of the benefits accompanying God’s wisdom.

Yes! God loves us greatly and desires to see us live in that love to the deepest extent possible. As we were out in nature yesterday and the sun was shining down on us I thought about how the Son was shining down on us with His love. I thought about how these days of reconnecting have been a precious gift we are unwrapping. Times of walking, talking, praying, etc. have made many deposits in our memory banks. Woo hoo! God brought "Honey In The Rock" to my mind this morning...

I keep looking, I keep finding
You keep giving, keep providing
I have all that I need
You are all that I need
I keep praying, You keep moving
I keep praising, You keep proving
I have all that I need
You are all that I need

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for being with me for my ultrasound! I pray continued peace as I await the results. Thank You for Doug getting to meet Laurie, Anna, Clay, and JoAnn! Thank You for the way You shined down upon us throughout the day! Thank You for those caring for my Momma! May You continue to be with her during these difficult days. I pray the same for many going through tough times. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Marion; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; Ashley Foor; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Katelyn; Chrissy's cousin; Shirley Jones; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff's husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; and Damon who was recently diagnosed with nasal cancer. I pray for: the Long Family, Becky, Russ, a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues, and my friend Rosemary. Thank You for continued healing for: Pastor Tommy and Pam and for little Weston. I praise You for continued reconciliation for a father and his prodigal daughter. Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. Thank You for being My Gift Giver! Amen.

Philippians 4:4-7 - "Oceans *Where Feet May Fall)"

Yesterday was such wonderful from start to finish. I enjoyed showing Doug my little world and the weather was beautiful even though a little on the cool side. It was amazing to run into a fellow classmate at lunchtime in downtown Beaufort. She was also with us from kindergarten through graduation. We spent the evening with the Beckett Family and MaryBeth. I absolutely love having four children wanting my attention. They are such a fun family and I can't wait to get together with them again. Good food and good fellowship was the agenda for the evening. Seeing the sunset on the way back to drop Doug off at his hotel was once again a gift from God. Today is a new day and will be filled with more adventures. I am thankful he is here with me for my ultrasound appointment this morning. For the first time in over three years I do not have to walk into the Breast Health Center alone. I am thankful God orchestrated this appointment while he is here. I also am thankful God gives me peace with this situation. No matter what the outcome it will be ok. That knowledge is priceless. I am reminded this morning of the words of Paul in Philippians 4:4-7. It reads in the NIV:

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

There are some key lessons to be reminded of from Paul's words. No matter what is happening in life we need to be joyful. God is with us on the mountaintop and He is with us in the valleys. He never leaves us but instead draws closer to us as we allow Him. Because He is always with us we do not have to fret over anything. Instead we can lean into His strength especially during trying times. Communication with Him is key both on the mountaintop and in the valleys. Communication must be a two-way street where we not only speak but especially need to listen to Him. When we hear His voice, we need to walk in obedience to Him. As we live in this manner we will realize a peace from Him that does not make sense to the world. Praise His Holy Name! The song "Oceans (Where Feet May Fall)" is on my mind this morning as I think about today's appointment. I cannot allow the enemy an open door into this situation but instead need to stand strong in my faith.

I will call upon Your name
And keep my eyes above the waves
When oceans rise my soul will rest in your embrace
For I am Yours and You are mine

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday with: Doug being here to see my little world; the surprise of seeing our classmate Linda at lunchtime; the evening with Sierra, Billy, MaryBeth, and the kids; and seeing the sunset when going back to drop Doug off at the hotel! It was a day full of gifts from You that I pray I unwrapped in the way You desired. Thank You for the day ahead and for him being here for my ultrasound! May I remember Paul's words from Philippians 4 and not be anxious over this appointment. Thank You for blessing me in abundance in so many ways! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray Your peace as Paul speaks of over many going through difficult days. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Marion; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; Ashley Foor; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Katelyn; Chrissy's cousin; Shirley Jones; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff's husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; and Damon who was recently diagnosed with nasal cancer. I pray for: the Long Family, Becky, Russ, a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues, and my friend Rosemary. Thank You for continued healing for: Pastor Tommy and Pam and for little Weston. I praise You for continued reconciliation for a father and his prodigal daughter. Thank You for being My Gift Giver! Amen.

Psalm 118:24 - "Today Is The Day"

Sundays are so special with sharing them with my church family. Yesterday was full of good times with them. Having five children in Sunday School and eight there for children's church blessed me in abundance. Going to lunch with some after church with lots of fellowship was another blessing in my day. Receiving messages about the service encouraged me to continue presenting what God gives me each week. The icing on the cake for my Sunday was picking Doug up at the airport last night. A full yet blessed day that was definitely God given. Woo hoo! Today is a new day. What lies ahead is only known by God. There are things I want to accomplish, places I want to go, etc. but the most important thing is to do what God desires. He is in control and already knows the outcome of the day ahead. He gives each and every day to us as a gift. It is up to us on how we unwrap it. Some days I see myself unwrapping it slowing while others I unwrap it quickly. The day ahead is going to be full of blessings and how I receive and accept them will determine to what degree they will be for me. Some gifts in life are received knowing the giver put a lot of thought into them. That is how I see the day ahead. God has given it to me to enjoy, to learn from, to be blessed by, etc. He has given me the gift with a purpose and that purpose is to enjoy it through His love. I am reminded this morning of the song "Today Is The Day" and feeling very blessed with the knowledge that God made the day ahead for me. He made it for me to enjoy and as I walk in His love I will experience exactly what He desires for me to receive. 

Today is the day You have made
I will rejoice and be glad in it

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for my church family who love on me well, for people outside of my church who encourage me as a pastor, for Tim being with Momma this weekend, and for bringing Doug to visit! You bless me in so many ways and I am grateful for each one of them. Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of you. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts today. May there not be any doubt in anyone's mind who You are in my life. I pray Your peace over many going through difficult days. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Marion; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; Ashley Foor; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Katelyn; Chrissy's cousin; Shirley Jones; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff's husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; and Damon who was recently diagnosed with nasal cancer. I pray for: the Long Family, Becky, Russ, a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues, and my friend Rosemary. Thank You for continued healing for: Pastor Tommy and Pam. I praise You for continued reconciliation for a father and his prodigal daughter. Thank You for being My Day Maker! Amen.

Jeremiah 33:3 - "Word of God Speak"

One of my favorite things to do is to have conversations about God. I love sharing what He has done in my life and about where He is leading me. I love sharing when God speaks to me. I was reflecting on Jeremiah 33:3 that God gave me last June at the first day of Family Camp. The background of this verse is that Jeremiah was imprisoned when the Lord spoke these words to him. These words have great meaning to me. God speaking these words to me shows me the importance of communicating with Him. He already knows our thoughts before we even voice them. We can never hide anything from God because He sees all and knows all. This verse God gave me was for a purpose. He wanted me to realize the need to communicate with Him and He also wanted me to realize He will tell me unsearchable things I don't know as I communicate with Him. Communication needs to go both ways. We need to speak but we also need to listen in all of our conversations but especially the ones with God. He speaks to us audibly, through music, through others, through Scripture, etc. I am reminded of the song "Word of God Speak" this morning...

Word of God speak
Would You pour down like rain
Washing my eyes to see
Your majesty
To be still and know
That You're in this place
Please let me stay and rest
In Your holiness 
Word of God speak

Yes! The way to comprehend what God is saying to us is found in the words, To be still and know. I am so blessed with not only knowing this but experiencing the ability to being able to be still before God. The more I am still before Him the more I will receive from Him. I am so grateful for the place He has me in life. Woo hoo! 

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for the work accomplished with Jeff and Timmy at the church and all I accomplished at the house! Thank You for conversations with Doug with many tears flowing! Thank You for Mom's appointment that Mary was a part! I prayed last night before going to bed, during the night, and again this morning for all pastors who will be in the pulpit today to be effective speakers. May we all speak boldly what You desire of us. I pray for many who are going through 'tough' days to find Your peace. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Marion; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; Ashley Foor; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Katelyn; Chrissy's cousin; Shirley Jones; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff's husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; and Damon who was recently diagnosed with nasal cancer. I pray for: the Long Family, Becky, Russ, a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues, and my friend Rosemary. Thank You for continued healing for: Pastor Tommy and Pam and for little Weston. I praise You for continued reconciliation for a father and his prodigal daughter. Thank You for being My Heavenly Daddy! Amen.