Psalm 71 - "Ever Be"

The Lord took me to Psalm 71 this morning. David poured out his heart in this Psalm as he sought more of God. He acknowledged God as his protector who he found shelter in verse one. In The Voice he acknowledges God as being his rock of refuge in verse three. That verse continues, You are my solid ground—my rock and my fortress. David describes God in verse five as his hope...source of my confidence. I believe verse six is the key to living. It reads, I have leaned upon You since I came into this world; I have relied on You since You took me safely from my mother’s body, So I will ever praise You. It does not matter what we go through on this earth God is with us. No matter how long the 'tough' days continue He is there for us. The more we praise Him the easier it will be to get through 'tough' days. The song "Ever Be" is on my mind this morning...

Faithful You have been
And faithful You will be
You pledge yourself to me
And it’s why I sing
Your praise will ever be on my lips
Ever be on my lips

This week has been one full of reminders of my dear Momma. Oh how I miss her. I miss talking with her every day with most days several times a day. I miss her telling me how much she loves me and how proud she was of me. I miss her words of wisdom and encouragement. It is hard to fathom those days are only memories. In my brain I know everyone dies and leaves this earth. I also know she is no longer in pain and with Jesus. But that knowledge does not take away the ache of wanting to be with my Momma. Even though my heart hurts I must do as verse fourteen of Psalm 71 says, But I will keep hope alive, and my praise to You will grow exponentially. I also must do as verse sixteen says and continue to share my testimony. God was with me through some pretty 'tough' days in the past and I know He will be with me for 'tough' days ahead. The end of verse twenty is a promise I hold onto tightly. You will restore me again. You will raise me up from the deep pit. Matthew Henry wrote:

1

Assured of deliverance and victory, let us spend our days, while waiting the approach of death, in praising the Holy One of Israel with all our powers. And while speaking of his righteousness, and singing his praises, we shall rise above fears and infirmities, and have earnests of the joys of heaven. The work of redemption ought, above all God's works, to be spoken of by us in our praises.

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! I pray for pastors who will be in the pulpit today to realize Your strength as they preach what You have given them. Cleanse me so You can fill me. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray for safe travels for not only Doug and I but all traveling to Family Camp this afternoon. May the week ahead be filled with blessings through the preaching, music, times of fellowship, etc. I pray for those who are going through 'tough' times to realize You are their Hope. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; 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…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; and Damon. I pray for: Dave and Carol; Rebecca as she awaits surgery; Dan as he waits to start chemo; the Long family; Becky; a young mother hospitalized as she awaits the birth of her baby; and Russ. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My Hope! Amen.

Matthew 7:24-27 - "God You Are"

God woke me up to a song We Are Messengers sings called "God You Are" which blesses me in abundance. 

It's in the empty tomb
It's on the rugged cross
Your death-defying love
Is written in Your scars
You'll never quit on me
You'll always hold my heart
Cause that's the kind of God You are

A synonym for 'death-defying is bold. Another one is determined. I consider God's love for us both bold and determined. He never gives up on us even when we stray away. His love is there at all times to encourage us in both 'good' days and 'tough' days. I am so thankful for His love and can't imagine not having Him in my life. Yesterday when we were at the beach I walked past the sand wheelchairs and immediately the tears came. My Momma and I had a blast when she came down to visit five years ago. She loved being pushed on the beach even though it was windy and a bit nippy. Seeing the wheelchairs reminded me of the day her and I went to Hilton Head. We had such a good day making memories. I am thankful for those memories but I also am sad there will be no more memories made. This week I had a day when I thought about how many times I trimmed her toenails so she wouldn't have to go to the podiatrist. Last night as I was eating popcorn it hit me I will never have her homemade chocolate popcorn again. It seems like every time I turn around I have another memory creep in. Once again, I'm thankful for the memories but goodness sometimes they hurt so deeply. I am thankful for the way God blessed me for sixty-one plus years with my Momma. I am thankful for both the 'good' and the 'tough' days we had together which showed me how to love and trust God more. Darren Mulligan wrote of this song:

“Jesus in His humanity delighted in joy. And He surely delights in ours and the abundant life He’s promised us. But He through His great sacrifice on the cross has also demonstrated that He’s shared in our sorrows and has completely removed every obstacle that would keep us from God. We’ve all drifted pretty far from His shore at times and all needed rescue. His salvation is the port and Jesus is the vessel that rescues us from the wild seas of separation from God.”

Yes! God has rescued me over the years from some 'junk' no one wants to go through. He also rescued me many times I felt like I was drowning. Yesterday when we were at the beach the waves were large. Watching people out in the water is something I like to do and as I was doing that yesterday I watched the sand going in and out with the waves. I thought about how sand is washed in and out to shore just as we are in life. The 'waves' of life toss about but God is always there as our foundation. He is there in the storms of life to love us through them. The parable of building your house on the rock or the sand came to my mind yesterday as I watched the water. Matthew 7:24-27 reads in The Voice: 

Those people who are listening to Me, those people who hear what I say and live according to My teachings—you are like a wise man who built his house on a rock, on a firm foundation. When storms hit, rain pounded down and waters rose, levies broke and winds beat all the walls of that house. But the house did not fall because it was built upon rock. Those of you who are listening and do not hear—you are like a fool who builds a house on sand. When a storm comes to his house, what will happen? The rain will fall, the waters will rise, the wind will blow, and his house will collapse with a great crash.

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for a break in the rain for Doug and I to enjoy the beach yesterday afternoon! Thank You for being with Andy and his family today as they gather to celebrate Katelyn's life! So many people have lost loved ones these last few months. May we all hold onto the memories You gave us with them. Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May You be heard/seen through my actions, attitude, thoughts, and words. I pray Your peace over many who are hurting. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; 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…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; and Damon. I pray for: Dave and Carol; Rebecca as she awaits surgery; Dan as he waits to start chemo; the Long family; Becky; and Russ. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My Foundation! Amen.

Psalm 89 & 37; Phil 4:13; II Timothy 1:7; Prov 3:5-6; Jer 33:3 - "You Are My King (Amazing Love)"

...gentle...faithful...steadfast...committed. These are words that describe God's love in Psalm 89 in The Passion Translation. His power is described as breathtaking...awesome... astounding...unbelievable. I love verse eighteen that speaks of His wraparound presence. As we reminisced last night with a friend I was so blessed for the reminder of God's protection over me throughout my sixty-one plus years. So many times I see His protection in 'tough' times that could have turned out so much worse. The second part of this Psalm is about God keeping His promises to David. Just as He kept His promises to David He does so for me. Philippians 4:13 was a promise given to me thirty years ago when diagnosed with MS. II Timothy 1:7 was a promised given to me when Doc was going through the pancreatic cancer. Proverbs 3:5-6 was a promise given to me when I was newly widowed. Jeremiah 33:3 was a promise to me last year around this time when I was feeling like I wasn't hearing from God. So, so many promises given to me through God's love. I am one blessed lady. It was just over a year ago God told me He had a man for me. He told me it was someone I already knew. I thought about the single men in my life and came up blank so I waited. Psalm 37:7 was another promise fulfilled in the process. I waited on God to reveal to me this man and was blessed when He brought Doug back into my life. Knowing him since kindergarten, growing up with a lot of the same morals, etc. is a blessing. The way he is drawing closer to God is another blessing. Meshing our lives together is not always easy yet once again is full of blessings. God keeps His promises and desires to give us the desires of our hearts as Psalm 37:4 reads. Psalm 37 tells us to commit and trust Him. Those things did not always come easy for me but the more I strive to live for Him the easier they do. The more I strive to live as Jesus the more people see/hear Him through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. Woo hoo! "You Are My King (Amazing Love)" has been on my mind throughout this week. His love is so precious and so rewarding to walk in. Oh how I pray I honor Him.

Amazing love, how can it be?
That you, my king. would die for me
Amazing love, I know it's true
Its my joy to honor you

Dear Jesus, Thank You for Your love that lavishes down upon me! Thank You for friends like Marybeth that You use to love on me! Thank You for bringing Doug into my life and for the way he loves me so well! Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the blessings ahead today! Cleanse me so You can fill me. May people/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray Your love over many going through difficult days. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; 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…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; and Damon. I pray for: Dave and Carol; Rebecca as she awaits surgery; Dan as he waits to start chemo; the Long family; Becky; and Russ. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My Love! Amen.

Isaiah 24; Ephesians 6; I John 2 - "You Are My King (Amazing Love)"

I love our Wednesday night Bible study. I enjoy preparing for it but I especially enjoy the discussion we have together. God's word is full of richness. It is full of truths that empower us to live today even though it was written so many years ago. Our study in the book of Isaiah can be very disheartening at times as we study of the destruction that has happened and yet to come. My heart breaks to think of people in my own little world who are not in relationship with the Lord. It breaks for those who know Him yet are not living for Him. At the end of our study last night we talked about the armor of God from Ephesians 6. We all  shared which piece of armor we use the most daily. Ephesians 6:15 speaks of and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. We know peace is an attribute of the Lord we can receive as we live with Him in control of our life. It is one of the fruit of the Spirit spoken of in Galatians 5:22. In studying the word peace I found in Greek it means 'oneness or wholeness.' Gospel means 'good news' which is the forgiveness of our sins. When we ask for forgiveness, we receive salvation. Salvation gives us access to oneness with God through Jesus. That oneness gives us peace. As we stand in the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace we will stand firm when the enemy tries to tear us down. We will have empowerment from the Holy Spirit to stand firm against anything the world tries to put upon us. It is important to stay in His Word and on our knees to be empowered so we can stand firm in His strength. The enemy tries so hard to tear us down. He tries to tear families apart and put people against people. The 'secret' to not allowing such things to happen is found in relationship with God. There will still be times when we feel defeated but we do not have to stay in such times. Times when it seems like one thing after another continues to happen will still occur but when we are strong in our faith such times will be easier to handle. We must remember we do not have to handle anything on our own strength but instead need to stand firm in God's strength. God's love is realized to a deeper degree as we stand in His strength. I love John's words in I John 2:3-6 in The Voice. We know we have joined Him in an intimate relationship because we live out His commands. If someone claims, “I am in an intimate relationship with Him,” but this big talker doesn’t live out His commands, then this individual is a liar and a stranger to the truth. But if someone responds to and obeys His word, then God’s love has truly taken root and filled him. This is how we know we are in an intimate relationship with Him: anyone who says, “I live in intimacy with Him,” should walk the path Jesus walked. As we walk in Jesus' strength we will walk as He did while on this earth. The more we strive to be like Him the more we will have His attributes. The more we have His attributes the more people will see/hear Him through us. I woke up with the song "You Are My King (Amazing Love)" on my mind this morning and feeling very blessed with the knowledge Jesus loves me so much that He died for me to live. The purpose for me to live is to share His love with all I meet. I can do this with words easily but as Ms. Carol said last night the way people see us live is more effective. John continues in I John 2:24-25: Let the good news, the story you have heard from the beginning of your journey, live in and take hold ofyou. If that happens and you focus on the good news, then you will always remain in a relationship with the Son and the Father. This is what He promised us: eternal life. I desire to live as John writes of in these words so I can live for eternity with God. I also desire to share the Good News so more people can live for eternity with Him. 

I'm forgiven because You were forsaken,
I'm accepted, You were condemned.
I am alive and well, Your spirit is within me,
Because You died and rose again.

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for the way You were present in our Bible study last night! Thank You the rain stopped for a bit yesterday morning so Doug and I could go for a walk and last night so we could go for a drive! 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 difficult days. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; 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…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; and Damon. I pray for: Dave and Carol; Rebecca as she awaits surgery; Dan as he waits to start chemo; the Long family; Becky; and Russ. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My Eternal Maker! Amen.

Psalm 107 - "Into The Sea (It's Gonna Be OK)"

Last night as we walked at the Rookery and the Sands the dark clouds were over us. They reminded me of the storms of life we go through. There is a physical tropical storm brewing in the Gulf of Mexico by the name of Bret. I pray it does not turn into a full blown hurricane. I do not remember a hurricane season beginning this soon. I am thankful I have Doug with me for this season if we have to evacuate in the months ahead. The clouds also reminded me of a dear friend whose response to my text asking about her husband's surgery was, 'We need a miracle.' Oh how I remember saying those same words many times with Doc's cancer. My mind turned to little ones who have cancer, seizures, etc. who also need a miracle. Doug and I have the conversation many times about how it is hard to not ask God, 'Why?' in such situations. It is easy to doubt God is still with you in such times but praise God He never leaves us. He takes the storms of life...whether weather related, physical, emotional, etc....and takes our faith deeper. Our trust becomes greater as we go through 'storms' in life. We realize His love to a greater depth as we lean into His strength. I am thankful for this knowledge for myself and for those who are in relationship with Him. Psalm 107 is one that encourages us to praise God for His love. The Psalmist gives many examples throughout his writing of what God does for us. I love verses twenty-nine through thirty one that speak of God calming the storm. Sometimes God calms the storms of life right away and other times it takes time. Sometimes He calms the storms in ways we desire and other times not. No matter how He does it we must know it is what is best for all involved. We must learn to praise Him not only through the storms of life but especially after they are over. Sometimes even when it seems they are over there are still repercussions. The memories after a loved one passes creep down our face in the form of tears. The loss of a relationship hits hard at times to the point you just feel like you can't go on but in reality you know you can with God's strength. There are times when one wave hits after another you feel like you are drowning but we must always remember God is our lifeguard and is there 24/7 to save us. He loves us so much. My son Paul sent the song "Into The Sea (It's Gonna Be OK)" to me right after Doc left this earth. It encouraged my heart greatly and continues to do so when storms come...

Though the mountains may be moved into the sea
Though the ground beneath might crumble and give way
I can hear my Father singing over me
"It's gonna be OK, it's gonna be OK"

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday with safe travel for Doug and I, our visit with Marion, and our walk last night! Thank You for reminding me You are always here to love on me through the storms of life! Cleanse me so You can fill me. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray Your calmness over many going through storms in life. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; 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…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; and Damon. I pray for: Dave and Carol; Rebecca as she awaits surgery; Dan as he waits to start chemo; the Long family; Becky; Russ; and Nikki. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My Lifeguard! Amen.

Psalm 37 - "Amazing Love You Are My King"

I woke up during the night and again this morning with the song "Amazing Love" on my mind. God's love is so amazing! He gives us the desires of our heart as we live for Him. 

Amazing love how can it be?
That my king would die for me
Amazing love I know it's true
Its my joy to honor you
In all I do
I honor you

These words make me question how well I truly honor Him. Do I honor Him "In all I do" as the song goes or do I fall short? I know I strive to live as He desires but I also know I am human and fall short at times. Psalm 37 is a Psalm of wisdom David wrote. It was applicable to the time he wrote it and it is applicable today. We read in the first few verses of how it is wise to follow God and not people. Verse three tell us to trust Him and do what He desires of us. Fix your heart on the promises of God, and you will dwell in the land, feasting on His faithfulness. Woo hoo! These words remind me of what I said at Ms. Bev's memorial service. She had victory in death by living for God in life. We need to all strive for such victory. Verse seven is key to live by in our busy world. Quiet your heart in His presence and wait patiently for Yahweh... Throughout this Psalm David speaks about the 'wicked' and about wickedness that can creep into our lives. Throughout his writing he reiterates that such people will be destroyed. I pray for those who blatantly do evil to have a softening in their heart. I also pray for their actions to not pull down believers. Sometimes in my humanness it is hard to pray for such people but then God reminds me I do not want to see anyone go to hell. David writes of the secret to living for eternity with God in verse twenty-seven. If you truly want to dwell forever in God's presence, forsake evil and do what is right in His eyes.  Woo hoo! Yes! I love verse twenty-nine. The faithful lovers of God will inherit the earth and enjoy every promise of God's care, dwelling in peace forever. These words are so precious to read but even more precious to embrace. A life with God is such a blessing. Doug being reunited with his nephew Chris has been a precious gift from God. I loved watching them embrace for the first time after so many years and see the tears fall. Listening to them catch up on each other's life, watching them interact, seeing same mannerisms, etc. have been a gift to me. I love seeing God work in our lives and am so blessed. The last twenty-four hours have been so full of blessings.

Dear Jesus, Thank You for Your amazing love that continues to bless Doug and I over and over again! Thank You for this time with Jenny and Chris! Thank You for opening doors that need opened and shutting those that need shut! 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 difficult days. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; 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…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; and Damon. I pray for: Dave and Carol as they await his surgery; Rebecca as she awaits surgery; Dan as he receives biopsy results today; the Long family; Becky; Russ; and Nikki. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My King! Amen.

Jeremiah 29:11-13 - "Fingerprints"

Yesterday's sermon reiterated God's love for me. I know He loves me so much and am so blessed by that knowledge. He was with me yesterday afternoon as I ministered to a family with the loss of their loved one. The hurt is fresh in my mind from the loss of my Momma a couple weeks ago. I wasn't sure how I would do getting through the service but once again God was my strength. I was surprised I didn't even have a breakdown of tears. It made me think about how Doc shared many times with me the importance of allowing God to be in control when faced in emotional circumstances as a pastor. I remember one time when Marlene was in the ER and I was with Doc. I started to fall apart as I watched my friend in such pain. He took me out into the hall and told me I was not there as her friend but as her pastor. She did not need to see me fall apart but needed to see God's strength in me. I am thankful for God's wisdom he had as he mentored me. Yesterday's service was a privilege for me to do for this precious family. I knew I needed to allow God to speak through me and He did. I also knew I needed to allow His love to flow from me and it did. Woo hoo! I know God's fingerprints are all over me as I allow Him. I also know it is only through His strength yesterday was accomplished. Church, memorial service with fellowship afterward, rest time, and ending the day celebrating my friend's Elizabeth's birthday was a full but very blessed day. I love the song "Fingerprints" and what it means to me...

Open your eyes to the signs all around you
Hope is alive and it's living inside you
All creation testifies it
The more you seek the more you'll find it
Love, love
Healing broken hearts
You see chains
Fall apart
You see hope rise from the dark
It's so much more than ordinary
It's nothing less than extraordinary
No
It's the fingerprints of God

Bremnes wrote of this song: “So many of the things we once considered extraordinary, we now consider ordinary. Think of all the things that you hoped, wished or prayed for years ago that you now have. This could be a job, a house, the city you live in, a spouse, or your children,” Bremnes offers. “The truth is, we’re surrounded by the extraordinary, and sometimes, we just have to open our eyes to realize it.” Yes! God gives hope and love to all who will embrace Him. He heals broken hearts every day and takes care off situations we cannot comprehend being taken care of. Praise His Holy Name!

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for being with Leslie and her family throughout the service and time of fellowship! Thank You for Doug being there to support me throughout the day! Thank You for the celebration of Elizabeth's birthday and our visit with Donny and Erin! Cleanse me so You can fill me with more of You. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray blessings over our travel today and our time for Doug to reconnect with his nephew. I pray Your hope over many going through difficult days. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; 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…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; and Damon. I pray for: Dave and Carol as they await his surgery; Rebecca as she awaits surgery; Dan as he receives biopsy results today; the Long family; Becky; Russ; and Nikki. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My Hope! Amen.

Joshua 1:9 - "Only Jesus"

Today is a day that can be very hard for many. Father's Day. I pray pastors will be sensitive from the pulpit for those who will struggle to have a 'Happy Father's Day' as they will hear many times throughout the day. I pray for those who are fathers yet estranged from their children or have lost children to receive an abundance of God's love. May those who live away from their father have a good conversation with them. My earthly Daddy showed his love to me every day. I was so blessed by him and my Momma being my parents. I know not everyone has such a blessing and I pray for them to lean into God's love even more on days such as this. Casting Crown's song "Only Jesus" is on my mind this morning...

And I, I don’t want to leave a legacy

I don’t care if they remember me

Only Jesus

And I, I’ve only got one life to live

I’ll let every second point to Him

Only Jesus

Yes! My Heavenly Father loves me so much and blesses me in so many ways. Yesterday was the seven year anniversary of moving to Beaufort. What a blessing that move was and continues to be. Yesterday after Doug and I got some things done around the house we did errands including some shopping. He is such a blessing God has given me. His love for me goes beyond comprehension at times. I am so blessed by the knowledge God promised him and then brought him to me. I also am blessed with the knowledge as we plant seeds wherever we go people will have the opportunity to know Jesus in a personal relationship. The more we live being the hands and feet of Jesus the more people will experience His love. Woo hoo!

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for loving me so greatly through Doug! I pray special blessings over my boys as they celebrate Father's Day. Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. I pray for those hurting today to feel Your soothing balm down upon them especially those who have lost their father or a child whether it be to death, estrangement, addiction, etc. I pray Your peace over many going through difficult days on this earth. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; 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…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; and Damon. I pray for: Dave and Carol as they await his surgery; Rebecca as she awaits surgery; Dan as he awaits biopsy results; the Long family; Becky; Russ; Nikki; and a couple having marital issues. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! I pray special blessings of strength and peace over Leslie and her family. Thank You for being My Heavenly Daddy! Amen.

John 14:6 - "First Things First"

Yesterday was another day in paradise. Our favorite breakfast at the bagel shop couldn't happen due to their ovens being down so we went to another one of our favs for breakfast. Afterward we had a nice walk, a visit with our friend Sierra, stopped in at a thrift store, ran a couple errands and then hit the beach for the afternoon. Last evening we had wedding money from some friends that we went out to eat with. Another walk including ice cream before watching the sunset was the perfect end of the day. Throughout the day yesterday, before going to bed and then again this morning the song "First Things First" was on my mind. These words are how I strive to live my life...

First thing's first
I seek Your will
Not my own
Surrender all my wants to you
Keep the first thing first
To live Your truth
Walk Your ways
Set my eyes
Lord, I fix my face on you
All my desires reversed
To keep the first thing first

Yes! I desire to live out God's truth as I walk in His way. I am intentional in keeping my focus on Him. The enemy tries so hard to pull me away from God but he will not win because my God is greater. We may think we want something or know how we want something to go yet when we live in His presence we will realize what He desires is what is best. My Momma's death is a huge loss in my life. I miss talking to her so much that tears fall often. When little things remind me of her, sometimes I smile and sometimes I cry. I know I have to keep focused on God so He can heal me from another loss. I know His love lavished down upon me will soothe the hurts of life. I've been here before. Every day is a new day that I need to embrace and allow Him to work in and through me. 

Dear Jesus, Thank You for another day in paradise yesterday with my wonderful husband Doug! Thank You for the lives we touched and the seeds we planted! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. I pray peace over many going through difficult days. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; 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…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; and Damon. I pray for: Dave and Carol as they await his surgery; Rebecca as she awaits surgery; Dan as he awaits biopsy results; the Long family; Becky; Russ; Nikki; and a couple having marital issues. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! I pray special blessings of strength and peace over Leslie and her family. Thank You for being My Lord of Lords! Amen.

Matthew 6:9-10; Colossians 4; I Corinthians 16; I Samuel 14, 17; Esther 4 - "Good Lord"

Throughout the day yesterday, overnight, and again this morning these words to a song David Leonard sings is on my mind...

I may not know what tomorrow holds
But I know one thing for sure
Good Lord, I got a good Lord
Every day, every step of the way it's You who opened the door
Good Lord, I got a good Lord

I am so blessed to have the knowledge God opens doors that need opened and shuts those that need shut. That is one of the ways I often pray. The Apostle Paul wrote about praying for open doors for his ministry to the Colossians in Colossians 4:3-4. In I Corinthians 16:8-9 he spoke of the way God had opened doors in Ephesus for him so he would be awhile before getting to the Corinthians. Paul knew he had to be in relationship with God to realize when doors were being opened and when ones were being shut. It is not a guessing game. Sometimes we tend to get ahead of God to manipulate circumstances to be as we desire. If we truly want open doors for His glory, we must wait on Him. God will empower us to do His will as we allow Him. I think of so many stories in the Bible where He definitely opened doors for people. I Samuel 14:6 speaks of how Jonathan had courage to go up against an army with only his armor. Esther 4:14 speaks of how Esther stood up to the king. We read in I Samuel 17 of David's story with Goliath. Each of these people knew God in a personal way and heeded to His direction. This morning I am thinking about what can God do through me? How will God use me to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the day ahead? What do I need to do to get out of His way to further His Kingdom here on earth? Matthew 6:10 says three words that have such great meaning. Your kingdom come... I recently read this quote, "God has planned for some doors to open only as we push them." That made me think about how we manipulate circumstances to get things to go our way. If we push doors open, are we manipulating? I do not believe so. We do need to wait on God so when He shows us an open door we can push through it. I am so excited for the day ahead to see what doors God will open as He uses me to spread His love. Woo hoo!

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for my time with: John and Terry, Marion, Ralph, and my Thursday night group with Betty, Julie, Tata, Elsie, and Terri! Thank You for the accomplishments Doug had yesterday with insurance and the closing of his house! Thank You for the business being taken care of at General Assembly! Cleanse us so You can use us. May people see/hear You through our words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray for open doors for many going through difficult days. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; 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…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; and Damon. I pray for: Dave and Carol as they await his surgery; Rebecca as she awaits surgery; Dan as he awaits biopsy results; the Long family; Becky; Russ; Nikki; and a couple having marital issues. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! I pray special blessings of strength and peace over Leslie and her family. Thank You for being My Lord! Amen.

Joshua 23:9-11 - "You Will Be Found"

Some days are so overwhelming and some days are so rewarding. Yesterday was both and I am so thankful God was there every step of the way. He was with us when we received the call the ambulance came early and we weren't at the facility yet. He was with us throughout the day when we had to wait at the doctor's office, as we drove through crazy traffic, etc. He also blessed us in abundance when a very quick answer to prayer when the doctor said Ms Paula was going to have surgery but she would have to go home overnight. I asked the doctor if she could be admitted so she would not have to go through the ambulance ride back home. He told me 'it doesn't usually work that way because there is not rooms available.' I reiterated my facts and he agreed to check. I prayed and not ten minutes later she had a room. The doctoer and the nurses were amazed. They said it 'never happens' like that. I told them it was an answer to prayer and the doctor's response was, 'You must have an in with the big man upstairs.' I chuckled and said I was a pastor but wished I would have had more time to talk to him about God. He does not always answer our prayers that quickly nor is His answer always what we desire. Yesterday He did and I praised Him for it. Not only did He provide a room but it was the exact same room she was in last week. I truly believe that was conformation from Him that He has everything taken care of. We just need to trust Him. I am so thankful I rearranged my schedule to be with them yesterday to advocate for her. I am thankful Doug was there to talk with Jack. "You Will Be Found" was on my mind throughout the day yesterday and again this morning. Ms. Paula is facing an uphill battle with her injury. She has a lot of work and pain to go through to walk again. I am thankful for her determination and the smile she keeps on her face that portrays Jesus. I also am thankful for the way she shares Jesus with those caring for her.

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 and the ones in the day ahead! Thank You for continuing to be with Jack and Paula! I pray for the surgeon to have Your wisdom today. Thank You for Doug being there to talk with Jack yesterday! When I climbed into bed last night, I was so tired and I thank You for the good night's rest. 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 going before others going through difficult days! My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; 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…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; and Damon. I pray for: Dave and Carol as they await his surgery; Rebecca as she awaits surgery; Dan as he awaits biopsy results; the Long family; Becky; Russ; and a couple having marital issues. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! I pray special blessings of strength and peace over Leslie and her family. Thank You for being My Blesser! Amen.

Ephesians 3 - "You Will Be Found"

Last night as I crafted Sunday's sermon I fell deeper in love with God. Paul's words in Ephesians  3 bless me in abundance. Sometimes when I read his writing I feel like he is right here with me speaking words of encouragement over me. He wrote in verse seventeen of the way God's love will be more a part of us as we stand in our faith. I love the way he describes our life. ...and the resting place of His love will become the very source and root of your life. These words are such an encouragement in so many ways. First of all, it amazes me Paul was in prison when he wrote these words. He was in a 'low' time in his life yet he chose to encourage others. There is a lesson to be learned here. Secondly, Paul shows the importance of being in relationship with God. We are told growing up that God loves us. We can experience His love but until we realize the importance of being in relationship with Him we will not fully realize it. A relationship with God takes work. We must remember communication with Him needs to be a two-way street. We also must remember in order to realize His love we must accept it. We must work to not just develop a relationship with Him but to continue it. It takes nurturing for anything to grow including relationships. I wrote this last night:

Maybe you can remember a time when you wanted to develop a love relationship with a special person. What did you do? You spent time together, you talked and listened, you shared thoughts and activities, hopes and dreams, and frustrations and desires. Love developed in the relationship. 

This is what is needed in any relationship. We must nurture it if we want it to grow. We must work at it if we want it to succeed. We must have the desire in our heart to have God's love flow from us before it will. We must be willing to allow Him to love us before we can love others. Sometimes we doubt God's love when we find ourselves in 'tough' times but He never stops loving us. Instead His love deepens in our spirit as we press into Him. During the night and again this morning a song Natalie Grant sings called "You Will Be Found" is on my mind. It reminds me when life is 'tough' God's love is there to soothe all the hurts.

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

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for continuing to be with Jack and Paula during these 'tough' days! Thank You for Doug being with them yesterday! I pray they will receive answers today. 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 love over many going through 'tough' days. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; 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…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; 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; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; and Damon. I pray for: Rebecca as she awaits surgery; Dan as he awaits biopsy results; the Long family; Becky; Russ; and a couple having marital issues. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam and for Dee's granddaughter! I pray special blessings of strength and peace over Leslie and her family. Thank You for being My Love! Amen.

Psalm 18 - "Gratitude"

Life can be frustrating to the point one is in tears and ready to give up. When you can't figure out what to do next and confused, it is overwhelming. I struggle to see people in such situations but especially those who are elderly. I remember my Momma saying 'I just need someone to tell me what to do' when faced with some overwhelming times. Last night as I pulled on her sweater I felt her hug. The sweater has her scent and that made me happy. I have several pictures of her and I together with her wearing it so it brings back good memories. I remember her Momma Grandma Helmick always having an apron on whether she was in the kitchen or quilting. My Momma had a sweater on a lot in her last months due to being cold with her low blood count. Sometimes she had it on even when wrapped up in her blanket. When life gets overwhelming for me, I want to lay down and cover up with my blankie. It does not matter if it's cold or not, my blankie is my security. Psalm 18:2 reads in the New Living Testament, The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. In the Voice first one begins the chapter with the knowledge God is the source of my power. When my tank needs refueled, God is the One to do it. When I need to feel secure, He provides a sense of security. When I need to have wisdom and/or clarity, He provides. When I feel like I cannot go another step, He is there to give physical strength. I am so thankful God brought Doug into my life at this particular time with my Momma leaving this earth. He is such a comfort but most especially he blesses me through the prayers he offers up throughout the day. I am thankful for the way we work so well together whether it be visiting people, preparing meals, or planning for the day ahead. God provided my place of safety here on earth through Doug. Verse forty-nine of Psalm 18 reads in The Passion Translation, So I thank you, Yahweh, with my praises I will sing my song to the highest God, so all among the nations will hear me. Praising God has been in the forefront of my mind these last few weeks. I will praise Him today no matter what is ahead because I know praising Him takes the focus off anything negative and onto Him. Woo hoo! Once again I have Brandon Lake's song "Gratitude" going through my mind...

So I throw up my hands
And praise You again and again
'Cause all that I have is a
Hallelujah, hallelujah
And I know it's not much
But I've nothing else fit for a king
Except for a heart singing
Hallelujah, hallelujah

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for going before us with all we do today! Thank You for Doug going with Jack and Paula today! I pray for wisdom for the doctors. 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 those going through difficult days will find reason to praise You today. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; 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…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; 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; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; and Damon. I pray for: Rebecca as she awaits surgery; Dan as he awaits biopsy results; the Long family; Becky; Russ; and a couple having marital issues. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam and for Dee's granddaughter! I pray special blessings of strength and peace over Leslie and her family. Thank You for being My Security Blankie! Amen.

Psalm 79 - "The Way (New Horizons)"

The Lord directed me to Psalm 79 this morning. This Psalm is an example for all to follow when dealing with the 'junk' of life. It begins with a lament or a complaint followed by prayer and finally a praise. That is the cycle that empowers us to be who God desires of us. Instead of wallowing in misery we need to voice our concerns. As we do this God will bring to light enlightenment with His wisdom on what to do. He takes us to the place in the situation where we can realize praying is the answer. One thing we must remember with prayer is it is two-way communication. We must not only pour our heart out to God but we also need to be quiet and listen to Him. We must be willing to change our ways when He tells us. Our minds need to be open to what He tells us if we want to be successful in the situation we have before us. After He shares with us we must be willing to go forward in the manner given. We must be willing to walk through open doors and accept closed doors instead of manipulating circumstances. The result of such action is praise. When I took this picture Saturday at the beach, I thought many people would not see the meaning in it as I do. The number three represents God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. God the Father directs me as He loves me. Jesus the Son is there for me as He loves me. The Holy Spirit empowers me as He loves me. I strive to live in communion with all three 24/7. I was thinking this morning about how all three persons are mentioned in the Great Commission that God laid upon my heart for our church. Matthew 29:19 tells us we are to baptize in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. This shows not only the way they are distinct people but the importance of all three. Every time I see something in threes it reminds me of God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. It is crucial for all to live with all three aspects of God. I am reminded this morning of a song Pat Barrett sings called "The Way (New Horizons)" and feeling blessed. God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit are all the way, the truth, the life as this song says. They are all we need in life. I strive to help people to understand the concept of how we live on this earth determines where we live for eternity. I don't want to see anyone go to hell. I desire to see all come into relationship with Jesus. 

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for my husband Doug who loves me well! Thank You for the opportunities You put before me to love with Your love. Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May You ooze out of 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; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; 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…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; 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; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; and Damon. I pray for: Rebecca as she awaits surgery; Dan as he awaits biopsy results; Sue with the loss of her husband; the Long family; Becky; Russ; and a couple having marital issues. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam and for Dee's granddaughter! I pray special blessings of strength and peace over Leslie and her family. Thank You for being My Father, Son and Holy Spirit! Amen.