Psalm 23 - "Honey In The Rock"

As I was praying for a friend yesterday God brought Psalm 23 to my mind. This Psalm is one David wrote to comfort himself but in turn comforts us when we are going through 'tough' times. Grief can be devastating. One day you think you are 'ok' and the next you can't stop crying. The simplest things can bring freshness to your grief. Sometimes it is as simple as a food or smell. Others time it can be the anniversary date of your loved ones death or their birthday. Sometimes it is a place you visited with them or something you frequently did together. My grief over my Momma leaving this earth happens frequently when I am having a difficult time and want to talk to her. I was so used to her listening to me and 'making everything alright.' She was the voice of reason and she was the voice of compassion. Up until my Daddy died he filled that role many times. After his death she fell into it. I am grateful for both of them who taught me to seek God through prayer and reading His Word. I am grateful for the example they gave on how to love with God's love on hurting people. I also am grateful for living in God's presence where I find His peace, wisdom, and encouragement. Psalm 23 shows me...

Verse 1 - He goes before me. When I follow His voice, He will direct me down the right path.

Verse 2 - Green pastures for sheep is a place of rest, contentment, and fulfillment. As we live in His presence we will find these things.

Verse 3 - God leads us where He desires us to go. It is key for us to find rest in Him before we can do what He desires of us. 

Verse 4 - He is with us in all circumstances. He knows the hurts of our heart and encourages us through them. I am reminded of John 14:27 where Jesus said, let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Paul wrote in Romans 8:28 about how all things work together for good to them that love God. Even when we don't understand things we go though His Word encourages us to trust Him.

Verse 5 - God provides exactly what we need in all circumstances. I am reminded of the Israelites who He provided for in the desert. He dropped manna down from heaven and produced water out of the rock. I am blessed by David's words, my cup runneth over.

Verse 6 - I was reading about how a shepherd has two dogs guarding the rear of the pack. The idea of God being the Shepherd and Jesus and the Holy Spirit being the two guard dogs is comforting to me. The more I press into the Three of them the more the words of dwelling in the house of the Lord forever will be realized.

I remember memorizing Psalm 23 as a child. I also remember hearing it many times spoken at funerals. It is one of the Scriptures I consider as being one to ground us. It encourages us when we feel like we can't continue on in life. It is the voice of reason when life doesn't make sense. I am grateful it is my manna and my honey in life. I love the song "Honey In The Rock" and for the way it encourages me to lean into the Lord in 'good times' and 'bad times.'

Praying for a miracle

 Thirsty for the Living Well

 Only You can satisfy

 Sweetness at the mercy seat

 Now I've tasted, it's not hard to see

 Only You can satisfy

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday with seeing the orthopedic doctor for my back and for Doug taking care of me! Thank You for a plan of treatment to alleviate this pain! Father, be glorified through this time as I am in the waiting room for bloodwork results. Cleanse me so You can fill me so people will see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray Psalm 23 over many going through difficult days. May they be encouraged through people, Your Word, etc. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Doug's sister Jackie; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Beth; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; Brooklyn; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Chrissy’s cousin; Mike's sister; Shirley Jones; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; Audrey; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; Damon; Dave and Carol with his treatments; Dan; and Ray. I pray for: the Long family; Becky; Baby Sabre and her family; Debbie and her family; Mr. John; and Russ. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My Manna and Honey! Amen.

Psalm 46:10; Isaiah 41:10 - "Never"

God brought two scriptures to me last night right before falling asleep. Psalm 46:10 and Isaiah 41:10. Both of these Scriptures are so needed in my life. Isaiah 41:10 in the New Living Version reads: Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. God gives clear direction with this verse. We do not have to fear anything when we lean into Him. It reminds me of the words in II Timothy 1:7 that tell us God doesn't put fear upon us but instead empowers us with His love to stand up against fear. Psalm 46:10 reads, “Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.” These words remind me God will be glorified through me when I stand in His strength. Woo hoo! Glorifying God is one of my purposes of life. The more I lean into His strength and rely upon His wisdom the more He will be glorified. I wasn't sure how I was going to get through yesterday's service. I prayed and asked God to give me His supernatural empowerment. The sermon and music was shortened but He was glorified through it all. I am thankful for Doug who cooked for our family lunch at church along with others who brought things. I am thankful for Debbie who helped clean up afterward. I also am thankful for the two hour nap I had when we got home and our walks afterward. God provides exactly what we need. He will be glorified through our actions as we live in His empowerment. I saw a mug that said, "She walked with Jesus...that was her game-changing strategy." I like that! I do not know how people get through the 'waiting rooms' of life without the Lord. I do not know how they survive without friends loving on them through prayers. I am so thankful where God has me in life and for the way He is my strength. He blesses me every day through His creation, my husband, other people, etc. I have the song "Never" on my heart this morning. God is always with me even when doubts come into my mind. He is with me even when the future seems bleak. I praise His Holy Name for this knowledge! I praise Him for people who have spoken life over me these last few days!

Never forgotten
Never forsaken
Never abandoned
Not for a second
I am safe in Your hands
Always and forever
You're never not working
My heart is the proof
There's not a broken too broken for You
Will there ever come a day when You're not holding me together?
You say never

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday with Your empowerment to not just get me through the service but to be glorified through it! Thank You for Doug who takes care of me so well! Thank You for those who have spoken life over me these last few days! Cleanse me so You can fill me so people will see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I speak life over many going through difficult days. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Doug's sister Jackie; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Beth; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; Brooklyn; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Chrissy’s cousin; Mike's sister; Shirley Jones; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; Audrey; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; Damon; Dave and Carol with his treatments; Dan; and Ray. I pray for: the Long family; Becky; Baby Sabre and her family; Debbie and her family; Mr. John; and Russ. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being with Pastor Libby, Pastor Roland, Pastor Donna and the rest of the District Work and Witness Team as they serve in Argentina! Thank You for being My Always and Forever! Amen.

Psalm 118 - "Praise You In This Storm"

The Lord woke me with Psalm 118:24. This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. My first thought was I don't feel like rejoicing with this back pain and waiting on bloodwork results. Shame on me. After Doug prayed over me I felt like I could get up and get the day started. In my humanness I did not want to get up but I know I need to. God cannot be glorified through me if I stay in bed. Psalm 118 is one David wrote when trusting God was heavy on his mind. I love what Matthew Henry wrote of this Psalm...

God is sometimes the strength of his people, when he is not their song; they have spiritual supports, though they want spiritual delights. Whether the believer traces back his comfort to the everlasting goodness and mercy of God, or whether he looks forward to the blessing secured to him, he will find abundant cause for joy and praise. Every answer to our prayers is an evidence that the Lord is on our side; and then we need not fear what man can do unto us; we should conscientiously do our duty to all, and trust in him alone to accept and bless us. Let us seek to live to declare the works of God, and to encourage others to serve him and trust in him. Such were the triumphs of the Son of David, in the assurance that the good pleasure of the Lord should prosper in his hand.

These words bring tears to my eyes. I know God is my strength. I know He is my joy. I know He is Who I desire to glorify. I know these things yet in the physical issues of life it can be hard to live. These words speak volumes to me as I am getting this body to function today. Let us seek to live to declare the works of God, and to encourage others to serve him and trust in him. I will praise Him no matter what is ahead. I am reminded of the words to a song Casting Crowns sings called, "Praise You In This Storm"...

And I'll praise you in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For you are who you are
No matter where I am
And every tear I've cried
You hold in your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise you in this storm

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the day of rest yesterday! Thank You for Doug going with the Beckett Family to enjoy Hunting Island! Thank You for Psalm 118 which encourages me to trust You and for "Praise You In This Storm" that reminds me You are with me! Cleanse me so You can fill me so people will see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. Once again, I pray for all pastors in pulpits this morning to preach what You desire. May You be their strength. I pray Your strength over myself and many going through difficult days. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Doug's sister Jackie; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Beth; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; Brooklyn; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Chrissy’s cousin; Mike's sister; Shirley Jones; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; Audrey; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; Damon; Dave and Carol with his treatments; Dan; and Ray. I pray for: the Long family; Becky; Baby Sabre and her family; Debbie and her family; Mr. John; and Russ. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being with Pastor Libby, Pastor Roland, Pastor Donna and the rest of the District Work and Witness Team as they serve in Argentina! Thank You for being My Storm Calmer! Amen.

Philippians 4 - "God Is In This Story"

Waiting rooms are not the best place to be but I am thankful for doctors, nurses, technicians, etc. that we have to go to when needed. Yesterday I was in a waiting room three times. I tried to use my waiting time in the best way possible and that was praying. I prayed for not only myself and my appointments but also those around me. Goodness there were a lot of pregnant ladies yesterday. I prayed a lot for one who had twins under the age of one and another baby on the way. I also prayed for many couples who just received ultrasound pictures of their baby. The smiles on their faces were precious. I loved seeing men with the many of the ladies. Even though we were not there for the same reason I was thankful Doug was with me. Life is full of 'waiting rooms' and thankfully God is with us in every one of them. I am grateful He is there as we wait no matter what the circumstances are in life. 

Waiting on the next paycheck to pay the bills and put food on the table...                                   Waiting on a call from the doctor with test results and next steps....                                                Waiting on the birth of a child or grandchild...                                                                                 Waiting on healing for yourself or a loved one...                                                                             Waiting on restoration in an estranged relationship...                                                                   Waiting on God's direction...

All of these times can be agonizing yet they also can be filled with blessings. As we live in His presence we will experience His peace that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7). We will experience His strength (Philippians 4:13). We will experience more of God as we lean into Him. God woke me up to the song "God Is In This Story" this morning. I am standing upon these words knowing God is with me no matter what lies ahead...

God is in this story
God is in the details
Even in the broken parts
He holds my heart, He never fails
When I'm at my weakest
I will trust in Jesus
Always in the highs and lows
The One who goes before me
God is in this story

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for doctors, nurses, technicians, etc. who have great wisdom! Thank You for Doug caring for me so well! Thank You for Jordan getting me into the ortho doctor Monday for this back issue! Cleanse me so You can fill me so people will see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray Your strength over not only myself but many going through difficult days. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Doug's sister Jackie; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Beth; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; Brooklyn; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Chrissy’s cousin; Mike's sister; Shirley Jones; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; Audrey; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; Damon; Dave and Carol with his treatments; Dan; and Ray. I pray for: the Long family; Becky; Baby Sabre and her family; Debbie and her family; Mr. John; and Russ. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being with Pastor Libby, Pastor Roland, Pastor Donna and the rest of the District Work and Witness Team as they serve in Argentina! Thank You for being My 'Story 'Writer! Amen.

Psalm 4 - "Big God"

The Lord took me to Psalm 4 this morning and reminded me of His words spoken to me earlier in the week. "Rest in Me." David wrote this Psalm when he needed to feel the Lord's closeness. He was going through a 'tough' time and needed encouraged. I need to feel His closeness and need encouraged as I deal with physical issues. My back pain is worsening instead of getting better. Normally when I have a flair-up by this time it would be back to normal. Along with the back pain the day for my ultrasound is here. The result of it will determine if I have a procedure in the office or there will be surgery at the hospital. Too bad these two issues aren't related so they could be taken care of at the same time. As I read Psalm 4 I am focusing on the very last verse. It reads in the NIV, In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety. There is peace when we rest in His presence. There is encouragement when we reflect on where we have been in life and where we are now. There is always His love poured down upon us. When I feel like giving up, I am reminded God has a purpose for me. When I feel like I cannot handle anymore pain, I am reminded there is a purpose for the pain and that is to glorify Him. I have the song "Big God" going through my mind this morning...

Stronger...Than your brokenness
Deeper...Than your dreams not seen yet
Greater...Than your greatest fear
Bigger...He's so much bigger
Stronger...When I couldn't get up
Deeper...I could always feel Your love
Greater...You're picking me up
Bigger...I could always feel Your love
Man I'm counting on a Big God, Big God
When trouble comes around the way
Only remedy for big odds
Is a Big God (Big God)
Ain't nobody gonna shake my faith
No I'm not afraid
Throw my hands up in praise
For the times that He pulled me through
No I'm not afraid of the things that I face cause I know what I've seen Him do
I'm counting on big God
That they can't stop (Big God)
He's a Big God

Dear Jesus, Thank You for being a "Big God" during these 'tough' days! I pray you will be with me with whatever the ultrasound results are today. I also pray for favor when I call the back doctor. Thank You for all the ways Doug takes care of me especially in these days! Cleanse me so You can fill me so people will see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray Your strength over not only myself but many going through difficult days. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Doug's sister Jackie; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; Brooklyn; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Chrissy’s cousin; Mike's sister; Shirley Jones; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; Audrey; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; Damon; Dave and Carol with his treatments; Dan; and Ray. I pray for: the Long family; Becky; Baby Sabre and her family; Debbie and her family; Mr. John; and Russ. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being with Pastor Libby, Pastor Roland, Pastor Donna and the rest of the District Work and Witness Team as they serve in Argentina! Thank You for being My 'Big God'! Amen.

I Peter 4 & 5; Psalm 37:5 - "I Know Who Holds Tomorrow"

I don't know what it is about cotton fields that make me so happy but when I see them they put a smile on my face. Maybe it's because they are something I was never around growing up. It is kind of like the ocean. I only saw it once as a child yet I knew I loved it. Yesterday as we drove home from the cabin the cotton fields were blooming. We saw some last week that were pretty but the ones yesterday were beautiful! At one point Doug stopped for me to get out to take a couple pictures. This was one of them I took. The smile on my face represents how God's creation makes me happy. It takes away the cares of the world and allows me to bask in His presence. I am reminded of I Peter 5:7 where Peter reminds us, Pour out all your worries and stress upon him and leave them there, for he always tenderly cares for you (TPT). I also think of David's words in Psalm 37:5, Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, And He shall bring it to pass (NKJV). When life becomes overwhelming, we need to allow God to overwhelm us in a positive way. We need to allow Him to love us as He desires to do and allow His timing to happen with all things. I was reading in I Peter 4 this morning in The Passion Translation and came across verse twelve and thirteen which speak volumes to me. I've read these verses multiple times over the last few weeks from multiple translations. This morning God spoke through them. 

Beloved friends, if life gets extremely difficult, with many tests, don’t be bewildered as though something strange were overwhelming you. Instead, continue to rejoice, for you, in a measure, have shared in the sufferings of the Anointed One so that you can share in the revelation of his glory and celebrate with even greater gladness! 

Yes! I need to rejoice no matter what is happening, no matter how much physical pain I am experiencing, no matter how disappointed i am, etc. There is always something to rejoice over. I talked last night in Bible study about how everything we do and say needs to glorify God. Because we are human it does not always happen but the more we practice being Christ-like the more it will happen. Today is a new day. I do not know what all it holds but I know who does and that is all that matters. I am reminded of a hymn called "I Know Who Holds Tomorrow." I love to hear Allison Krauss sing it. The words remind me that God knows everything. He knows the timing of everything. He knows the way we will react to circumstances. He knows when we will stand in our faith and when we will cave to the enemy. I Peter 5:8-10 gives clear direction on how to not cave to the enemy. It reads in The Passion Translation: 

Be well balanced and always alert, because your enemy,  the devil, roams around incessantly, like a roaring lion looking for its prey to devour. Take a decisive stand against him and resist his every attack with strong, vigorous faith. For you know that your believing brothers and sisters around the world are experiencing the same kinds of troubles you endure. 

We do not have to worry about the day ahead or the tomorrows of life. Instead we need to stand firm in our faith and not allow the enemy any open door into our life. 

Many things about tomorrow
I don't seem to understand
But I know who holds tomorrow
And I know who holds my hand

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday for Doug and I and the ones in the day ahead! Thank You for Your Word that encourages me greatly to rejoice no matter what occurs! Thank You for the truth in the song "I Know Who Holds Tomorrow" and for the way You are going to encourage me to stand in my faith and not give the enemy an open door into my life! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing so people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray for many feeling overwhelmed to bask in Your presence. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Doug's sister Jackie; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; Brooklyn; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Chrissy’s cousin; Mike's sister; Shirley Jones; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; Audrey; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; Damon; Dave and Carol with his treatments; Dan; and Ray. I pray for: the Long family; Becky; Baby Sabre and her family; Debbie and her family; Mr. John; and Russ. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being with Pastor Libby, Pastor Roland, Pastor Donna and the rest of the District Work and Witness Team as they serve in Argentina! Thank You for being My Day Holder! Amen.

Philippians 4:13 - "Heaven Changes Everything"

Yesterday as I was lamenting to God I clearly heard Him say, "Rest in Me." I was pouring my heart out to Him about multiple situations in life. I know He already knows all but when we talk to Him it helps us. His words "Rest in Me" encouraged me greatly. Life can be so overwhelming at times. I have to remind myself God is here for me at all time. He knows all the hurts of life and He also knows how I will handle them. He knows when I will cave to the enemy and when I will stand strong in my faith. Soon after my conversation where God spoke to me yesterday I took this picture. Wow, God! The light streaming down reminded me He not only looks down upon me but is always there for me. His love comes down upon me in 'good' times and 'tough' times. His grace and mercy pour over me when I make 'bad' decisions, say 'wrong' things, or don't do opportunities God puts before me. This morning God woke me to the song "Heaven Changes Everything" and I immediately started thinking about the 'junk' of this world. I am so ready to go to be with the Lord and be done with all the things we deal with here. These words are on my heart...

In the light of eternity, I have this hope                                                                                        You hold my heart and I'm never alone                                                                                      One day, You're coming back                                                                                                      One day, I'm coming home                                                                                                      Thank You, Jesus                                                                                                                 Heaven changes everything

"Heaven changes everything"...yes it does! Eternity with Christ gives me hope in this world when life makes me feel hopeless. When I want to just give up, He encourages me to continue pressing forward. I am reminded of Paul's words in Philippians 3 where he encourages me to press toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Paul went through hell on this earth over and over yet continued to stand firm in his faith. I need to take the 'bumps in the road' as he did and stand firm in my faith. Sometimes that is easier said than done yet it is doable with God's strength and wisdom. Lord, help me be stronger.

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the beauty of Your creation Doug and I saw yesterday on the train ride! Thank You for the safety on the roads and keeping the deer alongside the road! Thank You for speaking to me yesterday and waking me with "Heaven Changes Everything" this morning! Cleanse me so You can fill me so people will see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray Your strength over not only myself but many going through difficult days. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Doug's sister Jackie; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; Brooklyn; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Chrissy’s cousin; Mike's sister; Shirley Jones; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; Audrey; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; Damon; Dave and Carol with his treatments; Dan; and Ray. I pray for: the Long family; Becky; Baby Sabre and her family; Debbie and her family; Mr. John; and Russ. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being with Pastor Libby, Pastor Roland, Pastor Donna and the rest of the District Work and Witness Team as they serve in Argentina! Thank You for being My Prize! Amen.

Genesis 22; Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Jireh"

 "Jireh, You are enough" is going through my mind this morning. He is enough for everything we need. He knows what is best and provides. We may not always see the provision but it is there. We may not always 'like' the way God works but everything He does is in our best interest. I want to have great faith like Abraham when God told him to take his son up on the mountain to sacrifice him. I wonder what was going through Abraham's mind. Was he begging God to not follow through or did he walk in faith that God would take care of things? Was his faith great enough to know God would do what was best? I cannot imagine all the emotions he went through on that trek up the mountain. When Isaac asked his father where the lamb was to sacrifice, what was going through his mind? Did he know he was the intended sacrifice? Did Isaac resist when his father bound him? What was his thoughts as Abraham raised his knife to kill him? So, so many questions about in these nineteen verses of Genesis 22. How did Abraham get such faith? How can I have such faith? Do I trust Him to provide? Do I trust Him to provide what is best for me? I am reminded of the words of Proverbs 3:5-6 that tell me to trust Him with my whole being. Do I do that? Do I allow Him to set my path straight as verse six reads? I know I need to get better trusting Him so I can walk by faith. The more I trust Him the deeper my relationship with Him will be. I want the trust and faith of not only Abraham but even his son Isaac. The fear the enemy pours down upon us does not come from the Lord. The fog in this picture I took one morning is where the enemy likes to keep us. He likes when we feel like we are walking around in a fog and can't make right decisions. That is not where God has us. The more we trust God the less the enemy's attacks will be for us. We will come out victorious through God knowing He is in control. Woo hoo

Jireh, You are enough
Jireh, You are enough
And I will be content
(Even in it)
In every circumstance

(You are) Jireh, (You are) You are enough 

Dear Jesus, Thank You for Your love, mercy, and grace! Thank You for Doug and I having a safe trip over to the cabin yesterday! Thank You for examples like Abraham and Isaac we have to read about in Your Word! Cleanse me so people will see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. Take my faith deeper than ever before. I pray for many going through difficult times to have faith You will provide whatever they need. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Doug's sister Jackie; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; Brooklyn; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Chrissy’s cousin; Mike's sister; Shirley Jones; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; Audrey; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; Damon; Dave and Carol with his treatments; Dan; and Ray. I pray for: the Long family; Becky; Baby Sabre and her family; Debbie and her family; Mr. John; and Russ. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being with Pastor Libby, Pastor Roland, Pastor Donna and the rest of the District Work and Witness Team as they serve in Argentina! Thank You for being My Provider! Amen.

Psalm 23; Proverbs 3:5-6; II Timothy 1:7 - "Hymn of Heaven"

God took me to Psalm 23 this morning to ponder upon David's praises to Him. This Psalm is one I memorized as a little girl and one I heard at many funerals. It is a great Psalm in how it is crafted. David poured his heart out to God praising Him for being everything to Him. This morning I settled into The Passion Translation to ponder upon it. David begins praising God for being his best friend and shepherd in verse one. He also recognizes he has more than enough. God's love is not only experienced by David (vs 2) but it is where he lives. I spoke in yesterday's sermon about abiding in and with God. That is exactly how David lived. It is there David found restoration in his spirit just as we can do when we abide with Him. He not only found restoration but he found direction. Every time I read verse three I think of Proverbs 3:5-6. It tells us when we trust God He will direct us to do as He desires. I love how David recognizes living with and for the Lord will bring glory to Him. Verse four reminds me of II Timothy 1:7. God does not take us places and leave us there. He is with us as we allow Him to be. There is a sentence in the middle of verse four that speaks volumes to me. Your authority is my strength and my peace. Woo hoo! God's authority is all we need. His authority gives us His wisdom to make decisions based in His will. His authority gives us strength when ours is gone. His anointing spoken of in verse five is all we need in life. Verse six in The Passion Translation is the icing on the cake for me. We do not have to fear the future when we abide in and with Him. We do not have to fret over decisions when we allow Him to make them for us. As we abide with Him on this earth we will abide with Him for eternity. Woo hoo! That is the perfect goal to have for all of us. I have a song Phil Wickam sings called "Hymn of Heaven" on my mind this morning. Oh how I long to be there. This song describes David's Psalm 23...

And every prayer, we prayed in desperation
The songs of faith, we sang through doubt and fear
In the end, we'll see that it was worth it
When He returns to wipe away our tears (Oh)
There will be a day when all will bow before Him
There will be a day when death will be no more
Standing face to face with He who died and rose again
Holy, holy is the Lord

Dear Jesus, Thank You for an awesome day yesterday with my church family, an afternoon of watching football with Doug, and an evening spent in town walking and being with friends! Thank You for the love my church family poured out over me for Pastor Appreciation! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You so people will see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray Your strength over many going through difficult days. May they stand upon the words of Psalm 23. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Doug's sister Jackie; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; Brooklyn; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Chrissy’s cousin; Mike's sister; Shirley Jones; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; Audrey; Mr Mullet; Marybeth's friend; David; Damon; Dave and Carol with his treatments; Dan; and Ray. I pray for: the Long family; Becky; Baby Sabre and her family; Debbie and her family; Mr. John; and Russ. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being with Pastor Libby, Pastor Roland, Pastor Donna and the rest of the District Work and Witness Team as they serve in Argentina! Thank You for being My "Hymn of Heaven"! Amen.

I John 4:17-19 - "Perfectly Loved"

God woke me up with "Perfectly Loved" going through my mind. It reminded me of times in the past when I felt unworthy of His love because of something I did or didn't do or something I said or didn't say. I thought about so many who are struggling with feeling unworthy and immediately prayed for them to realize these words as truth...

Even when you were runnin'
Even when you were hidin' (Oh-oh)
Never been a moment that you were not perfectly loved
When you barely believed it (When you barely believed it)
When your eyes couldn't see it
Every single moment, you've always been perfectly loved

Yes! God perfectly loves us every single moment of every day. He loves us because we are His children. He loves us because He has a purpose for our lives. He loves us because He wants us to realize the importance of loving with His love. He does not always love the things we do or say but He still loves us. His love is unconditional and unwavering. We need to strive to love others in this manner. Because He is God His love is perfect. Our love for others cannot be perfect because we are not Him but the more we strive to be like Him the closer our love will be perfect. Seeing a smile on someone's face when I love them with His love is priceless. Watching tears turn into a smile warms my heart. God put me on this earth to love others and I pray I will get better at doing so every day. I pray He will give me many opportunities in the day ahead to love on those who need to know His love in a mighty way. I pray for those hurting to be comforted and those who feel like rejoicing to be encouraged to do so. Yesterday Doug and I took off in the morning and went places we have never been before. It was a fun day with God blessing us with safe travels, beautiful weather, lots of laughs, good conversation, and memories made. It was a 'perfect' day to celebrate our relationship together and our relationship with God. Woo hoo! Many times I think about people who are struggling with loneliness and pray they will find comfort in knowing God loves them and is there for them. I pray for those who are seeking a godly relationship to find their 'Doug' who will love them with God's love. I pray for those hurting to be comforted in knowing God has a plan for their hurt.

Dear Jesus, Thank You so much for the wonderful day Doug and I had yesterday exploring new places! Cleanse me so I can be who You desire me to be. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I prayed last night and again this morning for not only myself but for all pastors preaching today to be attuned to the Holy Spirit's direction. I pray for those going through difficult days to know they are "Perfectly Loved" by You. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Doug's sister Jackie; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; Brooklyn; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Chrissy’s cousin; Mike's sister; Shirley Jones; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; Audrey; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; Damon; Dave and Carol with his treatments; Dan; and Ray. I pray for: the Long family; Becky; Baby Sabre and her family; Debbie and her family; Mr. John; and Russ. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being with Pastor Libby, Pastor Roland, Pastor Donna and the rest of the District Work and Witness Team as they serve in Argentina! Thank You for being My Love! Amen.

Ecclesiastes 4:12 - "God Is In This Story"

Yesterday was such a gorgeous day in beautiful Beaufort by the bay! I started of with some one-on-one time with Jesus and then had breakfast with my honey. After breakfast I spent time with both of them taking a walk in town before heading off to have lunch with my ladies from church. Lots of laughs were had by all. After returning home resting with my honey before dinner and another walk was great. While I was gone Doug replanted our climbing vine plant and got it situation on the trellis we bought last week. Our yard is looking so nice and it's all because of his hard work. After the rain yesterday I went out to look at the fruits of his labor for the day and felt so blessed. God just continues to bless me over and over again. On our walk yesterday we talked about the last six months and how every day gets better and better. We are falling more in love every day with each other and with God. He is definitely the third strand in the cord just as we did in our Ohio ceremony. The more we allow Him to guide us as a couple and as individuals the deeper our faith goes. We have desires of things to do, places to go, etc. We have hopes and dreams of where we want to be in five, ten, twenty years. We are realistic in the fact God knows all of those things and knows what we will accomplish and enjoy. With the war going on in Israel we feel the time for Jesus to return is drawing near and are prepared for His return. There are still so many not in relationship and we know there is still work to be done on this earth. As long as we have breath we will continue to share His love with all. Once again this morning the song "God Is In This Story" is on my mind...

God is in this story
God is in the details
Even in the broken parts
He holds my heart, He never fails
When I'm at my weakest
I will trust in Jesus
Always in the highs and lows
The One who goes before me
God is in this story

Dear Jesus, Thank You for Your love that You shower down over Doug and I every day! Thank You for being the third strand of our cord of marriage! Cleanse me so You can fill me so people will see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray Your peace over many discouraged. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Doug's sister Jackie; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; Brooklyn; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Chrissy’s cousin; Mike's sister; Shirley Jones; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; Audrey; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; Damon; Dave and Carol with his treatments; Dan; and Ray. I pray for: the Long family; Becky; Baby Sabre and her family; Debbie and her family; Mr. John; and Russ. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being with Pastor Libby, Pastor Roland, and the rest of the District Work and Witness Team as they serve in Argentina! Thank You for being Our Third Strand! Amen.

II Corinthians 12:9-10 - "God Is In This Story"

The song "God Is In This Story" was what I woke up to this morning. God has blessed me with being in my story from the very beginning of life by blessing me with parents who loved Him and showed His love daily. He gave me two sons and a bonus son who have blessed me so much along with their ladies and the grand babies. It is so hard to believe my oldest granddaughter has her driver's permit! Wow, God! He blessed me with thirty-one years with a wonderful husband, Doc, who blessed me in abundance and taught me so much with his wisdom. Now He has blessed me with another wonderful husband, Doug, who blesses me every day. It amazes me how much the two of them have in common. My Daddy loved Doc for the way he took care of me. I know he would love Doug too. I was thinking about my sister Linda who makes quilts. She takes material and cuts it into specific shapes/sizes. Then she hand stitches the pieces together to make a beautiful quilt top. The next step is to put backing on it, put it into my grandma's quilting frames, and quilt it by hand stitching once again. Every piece of each of her quilts is done with love and I'm sure with prayers. When I crochet an afghan for someone, many prayers are included in the process. The end result of her quilts and my afghans is a beautiful work of art with a story. God is taking my days and turning them into a work of art. He is using me to love on others with His love. He is blessing me through many people who pray for me. God is using Doug to bless me every day through his hard work not only at our home but also at the church. He blesses me with the way he takes care of me or as some would say, he 'spoils' me. Every moment we are together is a gift from God. When God promised him to me nine months before we connected, I would never have imagined the man God had for me would be someone I knew from age five. Wow, God! There are so many times I feel like I do not deserve this life. I've not always followed God yet He has always been with me. I've not always done as I should yet He forgives and forgets. What a wonderful God He is! This year has been full of so many emotions with getting married again and losing my Momma. I would not be where I am today if I did not have God's strength.

God is in this story
God is in the details
Even in the broken parts
He holds my heart, He never fails
When I'm at my weakest
I will trust in Jesus
Always in the highs and lows
The One who goes before me
God is in this story

Dear Jesus, Thank You for Your being in my story from the beginning of my life! Thank You for all the ways You shower Your love on me! Thank You for bringing Doug into my life to continue the spoiling my Daddy and Doc did for me! Cleanse me so You can fill me so people will see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray Your peace over many going through difficult days. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Doug's sister Jackie; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; Brooklyn; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Chrissy’s cousin; Mike's sister; Shirley Jones; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; Audrey; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; Damon; Dave and Carol with his treatments; Dan; and Ray. I pray for: the Long family; Becky; Baby Sabre and her family; Debbie and her family; Mr. John; and Russ. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being with Pastor Libby, Pastor Roland, and the rest of the District Work and Witness Team as they serve in Argentina! I pray Brian and his family will feel Your strength with the loss of Ruth. Thank You for being My Great Story Maker! Amen.