Nana Jul's Treasures

Remind me who I am - Then Sings my Soul

2012-01-28T10:44:00.000-06:00

Sometimes.... I just need Him to remind me of Who I am!

What is your heart singing? Join Amy at Signs Miracles and Wonders

Letters to God - C

2012-01-28T09:10:00.000-06:00

Dear Abba Father,

CARING for me the way you do, I grin from ear to ear, when you show me that you know my heart as well as my thoughts. (around my house these moments are known as God Winks) - The knowing it was You! ;)
CHAIN-BREAKER of my pride, my habits - perfecter of my life...sometimes you blatantly break off the chains, deliver and set me free. Sometimes you say "my Grace is sufficient, for my power is made perfect in your weakness." 2 Cor. 12:9 It is in these times I am called to continue to walk like Christ with my human imperfections and let your power give me the strength and the will to do so.
You are the CHRIST, the Son of the living God! You are alive and active in me. Imagine..You, living inside of me! Lord help me to live like I believe it!
You are my COMFORTER when my day has gone all wrong, when I am sad, grieving or all alone.
You are the CONQUEROR of every wrong thought I think - You set this captive free every time I align my thoughts with yours.
You are my CONFIDANT when I need to speak and release the things I have to endure. You encourage and confide in me saying- take my hand and we'll walk through this time together.
The CORNER STONE of my life, the foundation of my beliefs..Unmovable, Unshakable...Steady and Sure.
You are my COUNSELOR and our talks keep my mind sound. When I get off track, you tell me so - I usually argue my point, sulk, stew or pout - sometimes we even wrestle it out.....then, I humbly take your advice because you are always right! When I doubt myself, my motives or actions..You let me know when I have kept your way..or lost mine. You patiently wait for me to change, because you never do.
But you Lord, are COMPASSIONATE and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. How good that is to know!
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the Everlasting God, the CREATOR of the ends of the earth, He will not grow tired or weary and his understanding no one can fathom. Isa. 40:28

Thank you Lord for never growing tired or weary and caring enough to put all of your promises down in writing!

Letters to God - B

2012-01-25T19:33:00.000-06:00

Dear Abba Father,

Lord, as I mediate on you - I see how BEAUTIFUL you are. Beautiful in your thoughts towards me.  Beautifully loving me through every moment of every day. My eyes behold the beauty surrounding me - grandchildren laughing and playing, my children growing, maturing and learning more about you. Beautiful Lilies and Gerber daisies, brilliant in color, a gift from the one I love. Everywhere my eyes gaze, I can choose to see beauty - when I purposefully look for it.

You were there in the very BEGINNING; you are the beginning and the end. You created everything beautiful right from the start.  The mountains and valleys, the moon and the stars, gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. All of nature shouts of your beautiful handiwork.
Lord, you are the ultimate BESTOWER, making my treasure chest full and flowing over with BLESSINGS from your hand.

To think about you, thinking about me, when you are in charge of the whole Universe and everything in it; my mind can not comprehend the magnitude of a BIG God, bending down in concern for little me. I remember the day when:

Calamity struck - my world turned upside down - sudden darkness engulfed me
my day turned black as night. I felt...
helpless
lost
lonely
broken
and confused... not knowing what to do.
I cried out to you in my anguish, and you - the GOD of the Universe, reached down into my little world to comfort me and to let me know you were there. You changed everything, one moment at a time.
You breathed the BREATH of life back into this worn out and weary soul.

You were the very BRIDGE I crossed over, from death back to life. I chose to believe! You are the Son that God sent to redeem us from our sin. I chose to repent and turn around. I am forever thankful!
You have been forever faithful!

That day, I chose to set my heart and mind on you. I chose to believe what you have to say and to believe who you are. I chose to stay the course...no matter what. I chose to make you my BOUNDARY LINE.   You have been the BEST decision of my life. Every day when I awake, I choose you again.

You are BOUNTIFUL in all your loving ways.

Jesus, I'm so glad I gazed upon you today!

Letters to God - A

2012-01-22T14:59:00.000-06:00

Dear ABBA Father,

I picked up your WORD today and read that you are ABLE to do anything and that nothing is too hard for you! Your love and faithfulness ABOUNDS more and more as I seek you and I come to know who you are - The LORD, my GREAT LORD - my ADONAI!

As my ADVOCATE you stand by my side defending me. You fight for me, you protect me, you make a way where there seems to be no way. You are ALIVE and teaching me all things and reminding me of all of your promises...YOU are my ALL in ALL.

Lord ALMIGHTY, as I put you first in my life, you show me you are the ALPHA and Omega, the beginning and the end - So AMAZING to me is how you are still the same and you never change - that is my security. When I come to you thirsty, you fill me with living water from the spring of the water of life.

You never let me go - like an ANCHOR on a ship you keep me steady when the waves of life want to toss me about. When I am pulled by the current, you let me know that I am never out of your reach, and you pull me back. My hope is in You, firm and secure.

You talk to me through your WORD. I hold tightly to a verse and You and I walk through it together. You show me wonder upon wonder, things so ASTOUNDING I cannot express in words. (like the time you sang over us on the side of a mountain in Siloam Springs, and the day the Angel was in the Emergency room, the time you provided more than enough for all our bills when the budget clearly showed I was WAY short, and the time you healed my daughters shoulder, and saved my other daughter from drowning, you healed my son's brain tumor, and saved my life and his at his birth.) and so many more ..like the sand on the seashore. That you would count me worthy to experience what I have seen and heard. That you fill me with power and strength by your AWESOME hand. Lord, my GREAT LORD...I stand in AWE! Praise be to God!

All I am - Then Sings My Soul

2012-01-14T09:29:00.000-06:00

There are so many times in my work day I need to remind myself that All I am and all I do belong to Jesus alone.
This week was no exception..had I not stayed in the WORD, I'm not sure I'd be going back. Had Jesus not kept pulling me back to HIM, and shouting His truth...I'd have believed this isn't where I belong. (And this was only Tuesday!)
A new opportunity arose, and I thought I would GO FOR IT - but by Wednesday morning it had totally disappeared.

Back to the WORD.

Thursday...found me in tears first thing...OMG I need YOU!!! And HE was right there..encouraging me through a coworker. Then another He put in my path, needed the very encouragement I had earlier received. Before I knew it...by encouraging someone else. My belief was increased!

All I am is yours...I give you every thing...He has the perfect plan, and He'll take my empty hands and my stumbling feet and use them - to bring about His perfect plan, and it is beautiful.

Friday 1/13/2012 - The WORD He gave me first thing in the morning was this.

And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching.
~ Titus 2:7, NLT

What is your heart singing? Join Amy at Signs Miracles and Wonders

Silent night - Then Sings my soul

2011-12-17T08:10:00.000-06:00

What is your heart singing? Join Amy at Signs Miracles and Wonders

I hope your week before Christmas is filled with calm, that you may take a deep breath and rest in the Lord's loving arms. He is Immanuel...God with us...Always. Sleep in heavenly peace.

Joy to the World(unspeakable JOY)-Then Sings my Soul

2011-12-03T12:16:00.000-06:00

What is your heart singing? Join Amy at Signs Miracles and Wonders

I heard this on my way to get my hair cut today...and thought...hmmm, I need some Christmas JOY to get in the mood to put up the tree. I think I shall play this all day!
Unspeakable JOY...that's what He gives, deep inside..Unspeakable JOY - to hold onto, no matter what. Thank you LORD for the greatest gift of all.

Where I belong - Then sings my soul

2011-11-27T19:09:00.000-06:00

What is your heart singing? Join Amy at Signs Miracles and Wonders

I heard this Saturday...and just love the beat and the words. I thought of sojourners (pickles in the same jar)on this adventure with me...kindred spirits...hoping it lifts you up!

When this earth shakes...I wanna be found in you...When the lights fade...I wanna be found in you.
Take this world and give me Jesus.

Amazing Grace - Then Sings my Soul

2011-11-12T09:22:00.000-06:00

What is your heart singing? Join Amy at Signs Miracles and Wonders

His AMAZING GRACE keeps me marching forward when circumstances are overwhelming and seem undo able.
His AMAZING GRACE allowed me to see the very sad state of the ones without integrity, respect or compassion for others which caused my heart to break and tears to flow..for them and those they mistreat. His AMAZING GRACE poured out strength and courage to go back one more time, to rely on Jesus for the outcomes.

PS. 73:26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever!

Born for this - Then Sings my soul

2011-10-15T07:30:00.003-05:00

http://youtu.be/iZvZWUZFevI

What is your heart singing? Join Amy at Signs Miracles and Wonders

This song yesterday morning...was God's answer to me..and with two more confirmations before 7am...My heart was steadfast. My Father was cheering me on, thank you Jesus...O, the incredible things I've seen in the last 24hours...He heard our prayers (3wks waiting,seeking,wrestling)He answered on the 21st day(Daniel 10:12-13)...He leveled the mountains, He moved people, He stirred hearts, He opened up pathways...He marched out like a mighty man, like a warrior he stirred up His zeal; with a shout He raised the battle cry and He triumphed over his enemies! (Isa.42:13) I stand in reverent fear, I stand in AWE! I humbly bow down before my ABBA, YHWY, King of Kings.

24 hrs...Yes He can change everything in an instant - Never ever give up! and He allowed me to participate and see..Glory to GOD!

Here with me - Then Sings my Soul

2011-10-08T10:00:00.000-05:00

What is your heart singing? Join Amy at Signs Miracles and Wonders

Good morning Jesus,
Lord, help us to see you in the dark places. Move the mountains and touch lives. Help us to keep our eyes on you and your promises and not on the waters roaring, rising and threatening. Father move in ways that are beyond our thinking, beyond our comprehension. Show us what to do, teach us, guide us...Astound us!
Help us to forgive when others fail us. Help us to pray for our enemies, help us to see the motives behind things and to stand for all that's good and right and true. Help us to do it to please you. Help us to move out of the hurt and the pain - in YOUR power. Help us to surrender it all to you. Cause us to be courageous and bold, loving and kind in and through it all. Show us...meet us in this place, touch us, embrace us, reveal yourself to us...I surrender to your love, I surrender to your grace, I surrender to the ONE who took my place. Thank you for being here in this place!

Your Great Name - Then Sings my Soul

2011-10-01T12:11:00.000-05:00

What is your heart singing? Join Amy at Signs Miracles and Wonders

Isa. 42:13 The LORD will march out like a mighty man, like a warrior he will stir up his zeal; with a shout he will raise the battle cry and will triumph over all his enemies!

Lead you to the Cross - Then sings my soul

2011-09-18T20:15:00.000-05:00

A candle, a stepping stone...a holy compass to guide you home..There's no higher call...I wanna lead you to the cross! This is my story...

My granddaughter was baptized today - Praise God!! We celebrated along with the Angels in Heaven!

What is your heart singing? Join Amy at Signs Miracles and Wonders

Thank you to our B & B Hosts...Rick and Kay in Towanda, PA

2011-09-17T21:50:00.000-05:00

Our trip to NY and PA was quite an adventure..Walking with the Lord is a Wild Ride! But...The Lord provided for us every step of the way. Diverted planes, sink holes, flooding, Angels to guide our way...He turned ashes into beauty on my Nephews wedding day.

My Dad, Carolyn and I had the pleasure of meeting two very special friends (Angels) of my sister-in-law. They opened their hearts and opened their home..In the midst of the chaos, in the midst of the storm. When flood waters were all around, God provided the BEST Bed and Breakfast in Town! The hilarious hosts were Rick and Kay...where you'll sleep like a frog when you come and stay. (teehee)

May God bless you huge for showing us the Love of Christ!

We Are Thankful Fall Greeting

Send special Valentine's Day cards from Shutterfly this year.

View the entire collection of cards.

Light up the Sky - Then sings my soul

2011-09-03T08:44:00.000-05:00

Don't give up - Open your eyes and look all around you!

What is your heart singing? Join Amy at Signs Miracles and Wonders

Looking at life through a fishbowl

2011-09-02T22:47:00.000-05:00

When my girls were young (9 and 7) they won a gold fish at a small town carnival. They named him Herbert. Herbert lived with us in Pennsylvania for a few months before we moved permanently to Oklahoma. The journey took 3 days. We took Herbert out of his glass fish bowl and placed him temporarily in a Tupperware container with a lid - to keep the water and Herbert in while going over bumps and around sharp turns. In the evenings when we stopped at a hotel to rest, we uncovered the container to let in light, fresh air and to give him food. In the morning we put the lid on tightly and proceeded down the road.

In our new apartment, the girls picked the perfect spot for his bowl, between the kitchen and living room on a little ledge that resembled a window sill. Every morning Herbert would rush to the side of the bowl to greet us, he had quite the personality, perky with eyes wide open...some days it looked like he was smiling at us. He lived almost 3 years. We were all very sad the day he died, and we missed his greetings and funny way he swam around the bowl in excitement. We over fed Herbert - each of us thought the others didn't ...so we all did. He died of ick.

Herbert began life at a carnival..came home in a plastic bag, traveled with his loving family on a long bumpy journey and lived very happy - He persevered through a lot- until he was over fed.

A moms life is a lot like what Herbert went through. What are you feeding on?

Stay at home moms struggle with feelings of being stuck, feeling like they should be out there working to help the family, feeling like all they do at home doesn't matter and goes unnoticed. Wishing for a grown up to hold an adult conversation with..picking up the house again...cleaning constantly and it never stays that way - at least those are the thoughts running through your head - those are all LIES..your fish bowl is your home...your purpose is to support your family with love, greet your family each morning like Herbert greeted us - Put your Armor on! Rely on Jesus for your strength to get you through your day. Be Thankful for every little blessing - Open your eyes to see them all!

Working moms struggle with feelings of guilt...guilt that they leave their children with strangers to raise them, guilt that they missed their child's first word, first step, and feeling guilty after a long day at work with nothing left in them to give to their family but short tempers, a quick dinner and a good night kiss as they struggle to keep up with all the demands - at least those are the thoughts running through your head - those are all LIES...your fish bowl is your home - your work world is like the Tupperware container - your purpose is to support your family with love, greet your family each morning like Herbert greeted us - Put your Armor on! Rely on Jesus to get you through your day. Be Thankful for every little blessing - Open your eyes to see them all!

If we allow ourselves to sit in our fishbowl, and dwell on what the enemy is feeding our thoughts...we will eventually die on the inside from ick..Make time to feed yourself the TRUTH..Hide God's WORD in your heart..PS 119:11...Jesus even told the devil that we don't live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God. Matt. 4:4.

Stay at home mom, Working mom.......Put your Armor on! Eph. 6:11. The grass isn't greener...your fish bowl is right where you are right now to do God's will. Serve whole heartedly as if you were serving the LORD. Eph. 6:7 Jesus will light up your sky!

Here in this place - Then sings my soul

2011-08-27T10:09:00.000-05:00

Jer. 30:19 From them will come songs of thanksgiving and the sound of rejoicing. I will add to their numbers, and they will not be decreased; I will bring them honor, and they will not be disdained.

He is Here in this place!

What is your heart singing? Join Amy at Signs Miracles and Wonders

Let it start with me - Then sings my soul

2011-08-20T08:28:00.000-05:00

Let it start with me....right where I am, in my everyday life. Use me LORD to make a difference, to shine like you. Eph. 5:1 Be imitators of God, therefore as dearly loved children

What is your heart singing? Join Amy at Signs Miracles and Wonders

Thank you for giving to the LORD - Then Sings my soul

2011-08-13T08:58:00.000-05:00

What is your heart singing? Join Amy at Signs Miracles and Wonders

My heart is overflowing with thankfulness to our Awesome God for sending rain and cooler temperatures - for hearing our prayers!! He gave abundant showers, he refreshed his weary inheritance! PS.68:9

When I typed 'Thank you' into search on YouTube...this song came up. It is one I heard years and years ago which had a profound effect on me - tears streamed from my eyes...I was so thankful for others helping me come to know My Jesus! And that Jesus would take me back, and I still am so Thankful. Mom, Dad, PTL Club, Jimmy Swaggart, Pastor Brown, Desiree, Alicia, Alex, Kristen, Pastor Bill, Soni, Ivis, Angel Don, my Angel sisters..and so many more throughout my life...recently it's my blogging sista's..you ladies ROCK...and stretch me - so THANK YOU for giving to the LORD...I am a life that was changed...I am so glad you gave.

I hope this encourages someone to STAY the path...What you do is making a HUGE impact for Jesus!

Holy Spirit come and fill this place - Then sings my soul

2011-08-06T09:47:00.000-05:00

What is your heart singing? Join Amy at Signs Miracles and Wonders

Breath of God we need a touch from you-
Ps.143:6 I spread out my hands to you; my soul thirsts for you like a parched land.
Fill this place LORD!

God is Able - Then Sings my Soul

2011-07-30T08:08:00.000-05:00

What is your heart singing? Join Amy at Signs Miracles and Wonders

Last Sunday, I crashed...HARD...Like someone pulled the plug. It lingered all week...something was just "not right". Looking with your eyes, you can't see it, listening intently with your ears, you can't hear it...I believe it was a battle taking place in the spiritual realm...and it was a wrestle...
It happens when I don't rest enough, when I take my eyes off of Jesus. Then I wrestle with myself for taking the deep dive...plunging right into the pit...because I know better..I know the things I need to do - and fight those too...O it's not pretty.

Music calms me, and I've listened over and over this week to the many songs you all have posted - A HUGE THANKYOU to Amy for hosting ...Music sets my sights on Jesus, and reminds me of who has me in His hands, and that He is Able...This song found me Tuesday evening...Thank you Jesus!

2 Cor. 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
Eph. 3:20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us

Keep your eyes on Jesus...He is Able!

Beautiful One - Then sings my soul

2011-07-23T11:32:00.000-05:00

What is your heart singing? Join Amy at Signs Miracles and Wonders

Today I'm remembering How Jesus opened my eyes to His Wonders, He captured my heart with His Love.
Today I'm remembering our trip to India, before dinner one evening we all sang this song together.
Today I'm remembering How beautiful Our Jesus is!

Let it Rain

2011-07-17T08:18:00.001-05:00

Praying for rain in Oklahoma - Jesus - Let your Glory Rain down on us.
What is your heart singing? Join Amy at Signs Miracles and Wonders

Precious Moments

2011-04-24T15:33:00.002-05:00

Here is Precious little Nathan. click here for a cool slide show

Nathan - God has given

2011-04-23T08:18:00.009-05:00

Meet our newest member of the family - Nathan (God has given)
We are praising the Lord for this wonderful bundle of joy! We are praising the Lord for His AMAZING Grace, and abundant wisdom He poured on the doctor to call the emergency team into action to help Nathan into this world. We are ever so thankful they were successful!
Thank you Jesus for sending help in our time of need! Thank you Jesus for saving both Desi and Nathan! Thank you Jesus for all of the pray warriors storming heaven on behalf of Desi and Nathan. All Glory and Honor to you Jesus!

Thankful Thursday March 10 2011

2011-03-10T05:42:00.003-06:00

Join in today with Iris at Grace Alone each Thursday in March. Read those linked in. Let us Praise Him for his acts of power and his surpassing greatness. Let us Glorify our GREAT and AWESOME LORD. Jesus, King of Kings and LORD of LORDS.

I praise the LORD today, for his HEALING hand upon me. Thank you LORD for restoring my health, for delivering me from a serious sinus infection. He's helping me regain my strength and stamina, and I'm learning to rest in Him more. Today my stamina was very low...but my God helped me through. O LORD my God, I called to you for help and you healed me! Ps. 30:2

I praise the LORD today, for making a question in my mind during our study in 1 Cor. very clear to me. I was confused on a point, and I thought about what Paul said in Phil. 3:15 All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Our study was on Monday night 2/28, and we had differing opinions on the subject. I said out loud...God will make it clear to me...and come Sunday 3/6...HE did! He's awesome like that!!

I praise the LORD today, for Getting the edge. A class I took to help me get organized in microsoft office...calendar, emails etc. It was a grueling day..but we learned alot. LORD help me to continue in the things I've learned. That it may bring peace and order to my work day. 1Cor. 14:33 For God is not a God of disorder, but of peace.

I praise the LORD today for the opportunity for Alex (my son) to go with his AFJROTC to Phoenix and Tucson Arizona. They are in a drill competition and will take a few days to visit the area to learn about the Cold War. The trip cost $10. Really! 6 days: hotel, meals and transportation. His girlfriend of 11 months recently broke up with him, and the timing of this trip was a God send! It will give him alittle time to regroup...refocus, and help his broken heart to mend a little. A Great Spring break!

I praise the LORD today for ordering my steps, for lighting the way, for being my strong tower! For showing me when my attitude was wrong, and helping me repent, and do the right thing. Thank you Jesus for your patience with me. May you receive all the Glory!

Thankful Thursday 3-3-11

2011-03-03T05:52:00.005-06:00

Thankful Thursday keeps my eyes set on all the blessings the LORD has given me. Thankful Thursday keeps my mind set on gratitude, and my heart praising the LORD. Join in today with Iris at Grace Alone each Thursday in March. Read those linked in and give a shout out to Our Mighty and powerful God, Immanuel..God with us.

Lord, I thankyou for today, and the many ways you helped me. You helped me hold onto to your promises. To strengthen me, to guide me, to heal me. Thank you LORD for blessing me with a peaceful home. To be able to come home after an exhausting day, and to be able to close my eyes and take a 3 hr nap. Thank you LORD that my healing comes when I rest. Thank you Lord for knowing me, better than I know myself. You always know what I need, and exactly when I need it. Thank you for causing me to rest in you, to trust in you, knowing you have it all under control. Thank you for your forgiveness, your mercy and your grace! Thank you for breathing your breath of life back into these dry bones. Thank you for your love. Thank you for being with me through this day. In Jesus mighty and powerful name I pray. Amen.

Thankful Thursday 2-17-11

2011-02-18T05:02:00.003-06:00

Fill up today with Laurie at Woman taking a stand...let us know how He's filled you up with gratitude! Laurie asks will anyone remember my name? What's in a name? The bible says:

Proverbs 22:1
A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.

Ecclesiastes 7:1
A good name is better than fine perfume, and the day of death better than the day of birth.

Proverbs 10:7
The name of the righteous is used in blessings, but the name of the wicked will rot.

The bible also tells us how to have a good name;

Proverbs 3:3-4
3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
bind them around your neck,
write them on the tablet of your heart.
4 Then you will win favor and a good name
in the sight of God and man.

Today, I'm so thankful that we have the WORD of the Living God to refer to, for instruction and guidance . I'm so very thankful that He knows my name...that He is ElRoi the God who sees me! I am thankful that it is His Name that holds the power. I am thankful for a deep desire to know Him more. That He promises to fill those who hunger and thirst for Him.

Matt. 16:13 Jesus asked his disciples "Who do people say the Son of Man Is?" and after hearing many different answers, 16:15 "But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?"

A profound question..I am thankful to ask my self this question daily...Do I believe He is who He says He is? Am I living like it? I'm thankful this question keeps me in check.

Thankful Thursday Feb. 3, 2011

2011-02-03T16:09:00.009-06:00

Fill up today with Laurie at Woman taking a stand...let us know how He's filled you up with gratitude!

Thankful for his Lavish LOVE....Kisses from the Father, for He knows just what I need and exactly when I need it! Thankyou Jesus for filling me up with rest, quiet and healing.

Monday...Pink eye struck again...they say third times a charm...I beg to differ. Along with pink eye, and lack of make up, a very discouraged me emerged...not a pretty site. But my Jesus...called in the storm of the century...a record breaking blizzard...Thank you Jesus.

They closed our work for the first time since 1962 - Thank you Jesus!!

He snowed me in...and I cherished e.v.e.r.y second, of this 3 day God ordained mini-vacation!Thank you Jesus...for your Lavish love, your kisses like snowflakes, your compassion, your mercy and your healing hand!!

Thankful Thursday 1-27-11-Serving the Kingdom

2011-01-27T05:21:00.002-06:00

Join Lynn and friends in giving Thanks today. Lynn asks how do you serve the Kingdom?
Five things I am thankful I get to do today. Won't you join in and find the things you are thankful for today!

Today, I am thankful that I get to spend time with Jesus. I purposefully set aside my morning, to dwell in His presence...to pray, read His WORD, and listen intently to what He's saying to me for today. Keeping in step with Him. (preparation to serve :))

Today, I get to pray for a huge list of people; who need healing, who need help navigating through some very tough situations, who are grieving, who are hurting, who are lonely, who need salvation, who just need JESUS! (serving by storming heaven)

Today, I am thankful that I get to spend lunch time with my bible study buddies. Thursday's we get together, and talk about what Jesus is doing in our lives at this moment. We share our trials and our triumphs, pray together and study together. We are sojourners in this race...running along side each other to get the crown, a crown that lasts for eternity.(serving Christians in the workplace)

Today, I am thankful I get to go to work at a good job with good benefits and I work with some of the best people ever. Huge hearts, ready to help in an instant. These same people can at times be obstinate, hard headed, stiff necked brutes(humans like me that need Jesus)...but then you see them move out of compassion, and it's sets it all right. (serving at work)

Today, I am thankful I get to choose how I will respond to my day...and today it will be with MUCH gratitude, for I am greatly blessed. I will praise my God, and give Him all the Glory! Be at rest once more O my soul, for the LORD has been good to me. Ps. 116:7

Thankful Thursday Jan. 20 2011

2011-01-20T05:12:00.003-06:00

Join Lynn and friends in giving Thanks today. Who are your online friends, your BFF, and why.

I have some awesome online friends, and I am so thankful to have met them! Thank you Jesus for these two woman who have become my BFF.

Beth at an instrument 4 his glory - her writing is more like a painting, she draws you into the presence of Jesus...and she's always encouraging me to go deeper.

Sarah at gentle recovery she is living proof of our God's incredible mountain moving, chain breaking power. Her life and the way she lives out loud, gives me courage to do the same.

Today, I am thankful we have your WORD and can start new.
A New Day-God's View....Lord I pray, today as I go through my day that I would remember to wipe my lenses clean, and look through my glasses with a new heart and a new attitude.

To be made new in the attitude of your minds. Eph. 4:23

Help me to see things through your eyes LORD. May I have my God glasses on. Yesterday is in the past, tomorrow may not come...but today is a gift that is why it is called the present. Help me to receive this marvelous gift of today with joy and thanksgiving in my heart, expecting you to show up BIG. You've helped me before, what makes me think you won't help me again?!

Summon your power, O God; show us your strength,O God, as you have done before. PS 68:28

My eyes are forever on the LORD for only He will release my feet from the snare. Ps. 25:15

Thankful Thursday 1-6-11

2011-01-06T18:43:00.003-06:00

1.6.11

Already one week into the New Year..and what an amazing year this will be!
Thankful Thursday is an awesome way to recount what the LORD has done, and stand in AWE that He would choose us to partner with, to shine His love. His Love is Life, joy, peace...and I am so Thankful. Join in with Lynn and give the LORD Thanks for all He's done and is doing in your life!

Lynn asked us to share one thing from 2010 that we are most thankful for and one thing on our list for 2011 we want to see manifest in our life.

2010 held so many awesome God stops...it's really hard to pick just one. But over all, I am most thankful for Knowing Him More, and for purposefully seeking Him more! The more I seek HIM the more I found HIM in every little detail. Last weeks post about walking through the scripture Zech 3:17 (see below) was the most profound, however all year long...He walked me through many verses...I am what He promises I am, with Him. Thank you Jesus!

2011 - on my top list is to be an intentional Listener, and I have committed the next 21 days to read a chapter in the Bible, and sit for 3-5 minutes quietly. Then writing down what I feel He's saying to me for today. Julie at His love extended posted the challenge...Empower me LORD with your Spirit, empower me to serve from a place of abundance in you...Help me keep in step with you!

1 Thes. 5:16-18

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

I tried something new last week, but it doesn't seem to work well, so here is my post from last week

12.30.10

Join Iris this last week of December giving Thanks to Our Awesome God.
Did God teach you some valuable lessons the past year? Did you grow closer to Him?

This past year I learned many lessons and yes the year flew by!

The first thing I start pulling together every year since 2004, over Christmas break is our family calendar for the upcoming year.

Looking back through all the pictures and gathering the very best to display; I am blown away every time at the blessings the LORD has bestowed on us. Thank you Jesus for another year full of many wonderful memories!

Ps. 126:3
The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.

Surrender is a Huge lesson the LORD is continuing to work in me. September was a very hard month, but also a time of incredible communication with our Abba Father. Hanging onto my scripture memory verses for dear life..no kidding, to get me through each moment of the day while battling the urge to "bolt". I felt very much like Elijah wanting to hide in the cave. But God....showed up Huge on Saturday, Oct. 9th, at Dripping Springs, Natural Falls at 5:15pm.

We (my man and I) literally walked through the verse Zeph. 3:17!
The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love. He will rejoice over you with singing!

Dripping Springs is about a 2hr drive. On the way we passed a street sign - 3 Angels Ranch, hmmm.

We walked around, taking in the breath taking sights...not alot of talk...just breathe and be moments, full of peace. Taking alot of pictures along the way. We were walking along and I silently asked the LORD, are you here with us? And I knew He was. We came along a path we hadn't taken before called the "Bear path". It led us weaving our way up a steep path back to the top of the mountain. About half way up we heard singing, and stopped to listen..it was "Jesus Saves" and we looked at each other in amazement and started to sing along. Then we heard someone praying, we stayed paused in the middle of the path praying too. After AMEN we continued our climb to the top, rounding the corner and about halfway back to the parking lot, under a pavillion..there they were , 50-100 campers having church. That is SO GOD! To send us Church at Natural Falls on a Saturday evening! We couldn't have planned that if we'd have tried! I am still blown away by the whole thing! Thank you Jesus for being Elroi..the God who sees me.

This past week we have seen the LORD's hand in our daily walk every single day! I am so Thankful to be a child of God! I am so thankful for being called and taught of the LORD. As we press in to Know Him more, He presses in to Show us more of Who He is, and Who we are in him. It's the wildest journey I have ever taken..the past 12 years have been the most incredible of my life! Thank you Jesus for giving me life more abundantly!

New Year...New Blog Doo

2010-12-30T21:19:00.002-06:00

In the early morning hour before I awoke yesterday, I found myself inquiring of the Lord about this blog. I was laying out the reasons I had started it, and asked "Lord, do I continue?" He said "YES...this blog is for you"...At that I awoke, and it tickled me, that I was actually holding a conversation with Him and I wasn't even awake. It makes me smile to know that blogging with other wonderful Christian sisters is really edifying the LORD and encouraging each other and He's all for that!

So upon hearing the Good News...I thought I'd try something alittle different, alittle organization..or so we'll see. There is a new page for Prayers, Thankful Thursdays and Scripture Memory where I will post pertaining to the titles. If your looking for new posts check the tab at the top.

Thanks for sharpening my iron, and I look forward to an amazing year with the LORD and you in 2011.

Thankful Thursday and Scripture Memory 12-16-10

2010-12-16T18:07:00.002-06:00

I lift up my grateful heart, because counting my blessings keeps me focused on the RIGHT things. Remember to count them everyday. This week join Iris and share in the thankfulness.

I am blessed by sharing scripture memory, and my new verse is:

Ps. 18:28 You, O LORD, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light

I am blessed to learn that Beth Moore will be doing her scripture memory on her blog , beginning in January. It is the most incredible thing when many hundreds join in and post their verse; talk about filling up on some good stuff, by the time you are done with one page of comments your mind is totally renewed!

The Lord blessed my socks off on Monday during our Christmas luncheon at work with my biblestudy sista's. He gave me an idea for simple gifts for the 7 of them, but I kept thinking it was corny...and actually put off getting them ready until Sunday..and when I pulled them out..I was blown away...it was totally of HIM and I HAD to do it. I still wondered up until the moment I handed them out... but He moved, tears flowed, and I was in AWE. WOW does He ever have the best ideas! Thank you Jesus for blessing me by allowing me to partner with you!

Tuesday night was my granddaughters first Orchestra concert. They have only been playing for 4mos. and we were totally amazed! 260 stringed instruments...all in perfect timing and rhythm...Amazed I tell you! She was beaming on stage, she plays the Bass. I was wiping the tears and so was my daughter!! Proud moments!! Thank you Jesus for incredible Orchestra teachers!!

Thank you Jesus for good news for several of those on my prayer list, Connie is doing very well since her surgery! Thank you for hearing our prayers.

Thank you Jesus for blessing me with a man so SWEET! Thank you for allowing Him to experience YOU talking directly to Him. He was so stunned, He laughed out loud, and when he got home..He had to run it by me to get my thoughts...I said "That is SOOOO GOD!"

Thank you Jesus for the midnight phone call..the prayer offered up in faith for the one on the phone - Break the chains, heal the burns, clear the lungs..set her free to worship and follow hard after you LORD. Thank you Jesus for the words to calm her heart!

Jesus...YOU ROCK! You are MY ROCK and I will give you PRAISE FOREVER!! Thank you Jesus for blessing us that we can bless others.

Storming the Heavens in prayer for Connie

2010-12-04T08:31:00.003-06:00

I belong to the same church as Connie’s mom and sister, and I told Diana (Connie's Mom) I would ask you all for a prayer. I emailed Edie http://richgift.blogspot.com/
She designed this beautiful prayer button on my side bar -grab the code if you would like to add it to your blog to remember to lift Connie in prayer. Edie is so talented, and gracious to share her work, thank you Edie!

Connie just found out she has stage 3 breast cancer – the aggressive kind, and Monday 12/6 she goes in for a radical mastectomy. She just started a blog to keep us updated - read more here:
http://www.connie-duncan.blogspot.com/

Six weeks after the surgery she will go through radiation and chemo.

Heavenly Father,

Lord, I lift Connie to you, I ask for your peace to flow over her as she awaits your healing. I ask that you would give her a deep knowing, that you are with her through it all. Father your word says in Isa. 45: 2-3 I will go before you and will level the mountains, I will break down gates of bronze and cut through bars of iron. I will give you the treasures of darkness, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the LORD, the God of Israel, who summons you by name! Lord I pray Connie collects the treasures you will show her, and store them up in her heart. Light her way, march out and triumph over the enemy...Heal her completely. Lord Nothing is too hard for you!
In Jesus Name I pray. AMEN.

Thankful Thursday 12-02-10

2010-12-02T20:39:00.003-06:00

As another Thursday comes to a close, I lift up my grateful heart, because counting my blessings I find when I am through, there's no reason at all to complain or feel blue. I pray I remember to count them everyday. This week join Iris in all her busyness and Thankfulness...

This week the count was in from the Chili cookoff...over $10K raised for Toys 4 Tots in one day....AWESOME...thank you Jesus for the out pouring!
I'm thankful for an idea birthed on the snowy day last Christmas...a large coffee can, coins all year and a family the Lord pointed to in August. We shopped last weekend for this family and last night wrapped all the things. The joy of Giving....Thank you Jesus!
I'm thankful for the wonderful L.O.N.G weekend away from work, time spent with my family and time to start preparing for Christmas!
I'm thankful for the empty coffee can tonight...hmmm, I think Jesus is smiling, I think we'll do it again!
I am thankful for where the Lord brought me from...amazed by His mercy, astounded by His grace...Come and listen, all you who fear God; let me tell you what he has done for me! Ps. 66:16

Scripture Memory 2010 - Dec. 1

2010-12-01T05:57:00.002-06:00

Scripture memory illuminates Jesus...The WORD...God breathed, breath of life, living, active, powerful voice of God. It is relevant, it revives my thinking and keeps my feet from slipping. He teaches me things about His character, His ways, His extravagant love for me and those who turn to Him. He's compassionate, and lavishes His love and protection on His children.

For the next 15 days I will set my sights on memorizing Psalms 36:9

For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light

Jesus, Lord I thank you for your WORD, it is life to me. Thank you for illuminating who you are and how much you love those who love you. Shine your light on us to show us the WAY, for in you is LIFE....help me to remain in your love, and help me to reflect your image..that others see more of you and less of me. In Jesus name I pray. Amen

Thankful Thursday 11/18/10

2010-11-18T05:00:00.003-06:00

Today we are joining in with Laurie giving Thanks to our GREAT and AWESOME GOD!

Join us

Today is our Chili cookoff fund raiser for Toys 4 Tots at work. It is a Big To-do! Hundreds of our employees contribute by cooking their "special" Chili, bringing in desserts, and all the fixin's for a wonderful meal. Then, they turn around and donate money to eat. Each building competes against the other trying to raise the most money. The Marines honor us by coming out in a large group to taste and vote on the best. We have such fun helping our community. Thank you Jesus for blessing us so we may bless others!

Last week I was very sick - but I thank God that I had plenty of vacation time so I could take the whole week off and get rested, and on my way to being well again. Thank you Jesus!!

Last Tuesday was my Pastors memorial service. It was sad, but we celebrated the life he lived! Made me really think about how I'm living, and what I want my (-)dash to stand for. Thank you Jesus for sending Pastor Brogdon into my life.

Last weekend my daughters and I drove to Texas to surprise my sister. My sister - in-law and niece from Pennsylvania were there too! It has been over 10 years since my girls have seen their cousin Stacy, and 6 years since they have seen my sister and her family. We had a GRAND time - I got to meet my newest grand niece Melody and grand nephew Ike - they are so precious...we didn't want to put them down. We had an early all girl (and baby) Thanksgiving dinner at Texas Road House - sure beat all the cooking, steak is way better than turkey, and no mess to clean up!! Thank you Jesus for setting up the perfect weekend reunion! Stacy has healed so incredibly from her motorcycle accident in June. She walks with no limp. Thank you Jesus and all my blogging friends who prayed for her!

I am Thankful, and will lift up my voice in humble gratitude to the LORD, for all good things come from Him, and him alone!

Scripture Memory 2010 - November 15

2010-11-16T20:33:00.002-06:00

Psalm 46:5

God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.

I love God's promises. They help me stay the course, knowing He is my ever present help.
Reminding me of who is within me.

Thank you Jesus, for the assurance that I will not fall because God is within me. Help me Lord from the rising to the setting of the sun, throughout my entire day.

What verse are you standing on? What one gives you strength? Increases your faith?

Scripture Memory 2010 - Nov. 1

2010-11-01T17:28:00.003-05:00

Scripture memory...it helps me keep my thoughts on His promises!
I keep my verses on my desk at home and another spiral at work. And, flip through them...constantly! Thank you Jesus for your WORD and your Promises.

Psalm 5:3

In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.

Lord, these next 15 days, as I memorize your Word, please help me to WAIT in EXPECTATION.
Lord help me to pray out loud and fervently for each of those on my prayer list. I thank you that you hear my voice. Let my prayers come before you as a sweet aroma, pleasing you. I can't wait to see what you will do!! In Jesus name, Amen

Scripture Memory 2010 - Oct. 15

2010-10-15T22:28:00.002-05:00

My phone rang this morning at 5:05am.....I answered in my sleepy state, just having gotten out of bed and turned on the coffee, and on the other end I heard loud banging and the word "Fire"...and the line went dead. I noticed the number belonged to a very close and longtime friend of my son.

Alarmed and now fully awake, I said a quick prayer, Lord what should I do? I thought I would call 911 - but they had recently moved, and I didn't know their street address. I quickly went back through the caller I.D. to get their number and called them back...line busy. O LORD, what can I do to help? PRAY...and I did, and this is the verse I prayed over Cody and his family:

Isa. 43:2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and when you pass through the rivers they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.

We talked with Alex after we all arrived home this evening to see if he had heard from Cody, and he had not, so I told him what happened. He was very worried, but needed to go to work. He asked if we would drive out to see if we could find out any information. Alex knew the way, but not the street names. Amazingly we drove straight there.

There had been a fire alright, and everything inside the house was lost. I jumped out of the car and went to the house across the way, and knocked..a man answered, it was Cody's uncle. He explained what happened, and PRAISE the LORD...NO ONE was hurt!!

My man is still stunned....
I am in Awe once more of OUR Sheild and Protector, our Savior and Mighty God - to Him be the Glory and Honor and Praise forever and ever!! Thank you Jesus for hearing our prayers!

Thankful Thursday 10-07-10

2010-10-06T20:08:00.007-05:00

Psalm 17:11 You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand!! Thank you Jesus! Join Lynn for thankful Thursday in this month of October...sense the Joy!

This week I give thanks and share the joys that have touched my life...2 of His glorious creations:
He blessed me with a GREAT Niece and a GREAT Nephew...
Isa. 60:21b They are the shoot I have planted, the work of my hands, for the display of my splendor!

He blessed my daughter and me with hands to create gifts of beautiful blankets to wrap them in warmth and love.

Joy...I once thought joy was something to be chased, to be sought after; now I see it is something we discover as we look back over the many blessings the Lord bestows on us each and every day...joy is knowing He covers us with His warmth, and wraps us in His love and salvation(continual deliverance).

Scripture Memory 2010 - October 1

2010-10-01T21:01:00.000-05:00

A story you need to know...

“Once upon a time it was announced that the devil was going out of business and would sell all his equipment to those who were willing to pay the price.

On the big day of the sale, all his tools were attractively displayed. There were Envy, Jealousy, Hatred, Malice, Deceit, Sensuality, Pride, Idolatry, and other implements of evil display. Each of the tools was marked with its own price tag.

Over in the corner by itself was a harmless looking, wedge-shaped tool very much worn, but still it bore a higher price than any of the others. Someone asked the devil what it was, and he answered, “That is Discouragement.” The next question came quickly, “And why is it priced so high even though it is plain to see that it is worn more than these others?”

Because replied the devil, “It is more useful to me than all these others. I can pry open and get into a man’s heart with that when I cannot get near him with any other tool. Once I get inside, I can use him in whatever way suits me best. It is worn well because I use it on everybody I can, and few people even know it belongs to me.”

This tool was priced so high that no one could buy it, and to this day it has never been sold. It still belongs to the devil, and he still uses it on mankind.”

Eph. 6:10-11 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.

Thankful Thursday 9-23-10

2010-09-23T05:00:00.004-05:00

I will Praise God's name in song and glorify him with Thanksgiving! May all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who love your salvation always say, "Let God be exalted!"
Today is Thankful Thursday. Won't you join in with Iris, and exalt the LORD with us!!

I am very Thankful for my family who encourage me when I'm down, overwhelmed, worn out, weary, and doing the ugly cry. They challenge me with the very words I use to challenge them (so not fair), but right. And God does the same. He challenges me with His very WORD....

Phil 2:5 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.

But how...show me how LORD! And He did, and he does!
SURRENDER.....
Hold those things and people you love....LOOSELY. (The Lord revealed to me some things in this life I am holding onto too tightly, trying to control)
I am very Thankful for the surrender, and the peace that finally came.
I am very Thankful for even in my darkness...His light leads the way.
I am very Thankful for the sacrifice of praise.
GOD is BIG ENOUGH...
to Care
to Forgive
to Save
to Restore
to Renew
to Heal
to Protect
to Hear
to Answer
"Let God be exalted!"

Scripture Memory 2010 - September 1

2010-09-01T05:12:00.001-05:00

Jeremiah 33:3

"Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know."

Heavenly Father, Lord I long to hear your voice and to see you move. I am seeking you with all of my heart.
You know every question I have in my mind, and carry in my heart. I have determined to know you more. Lord I pray with each passing moment in every day that you tell me more, great and unsearchable things I do not know. I treasure up and ponder in my heart all you have already shown me. I Marvel at your works! Holy Spirit - counselor, remind me to always "call on Jesus" when I am wavering, wondering, or worrying; and He will answer and tell me all I need to know! And remind me to YIELD when the LORD tells me to obey. Do it Lord - in me.
In Jesus Name I pray. AMEN.

Ponder this: In Israel small rocks are placed on caskets instead of flowers (look closely at the picture)...why I asked, "because rocks are Eternal" (WOW)
Isa 26:4 Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD is the Rock eternal.

Thankful Thursday 8-19-10

2010-08-19T05:58:00.000-05:00

Today we are showing our grateful hearts, join in with Laurie at womentakingastand. We are praising and Thanking Our God.

Thank you Lord for:

Silence in the early morning hours
Devine Intervention
Testimonies
Knowing
The song in my heart
Family and Friends
Practice fields
Yielding
Work
This is the day the LORD has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it! Thank You JESUS!

Scripture Memory 2010 - August 15

2010-08-15T09:46:00.000-05:00

Romans 8:28

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

I've been reminded over and over this past month:

We know - I KNOW
We know ALL things God works for the good.
He WORKS ALL things for the GOOD of those who love Him.
Those who LOVE Him have been CALLED.
We have been CALLED according to HIS PURPOSE.
So, If we have been CALLED and we LOVE Him, He will WORK it out for HIS PURPOSE, and it will be GOOD!
It will be His Best plan.
Do you Love Him? Then you have been Called. What are we called to do? We are called to walk humbly and in obedience even through the tough stuff, so through us others will see Jesus - his character, his power, his love.
Lord, help us to remember each and every day. In Jesus name. Amen.

Thankful Thursday 8-12-10

2010-08-12T05:27:00.022-05:00

He Speaks - I am so THANKFUL that I hear!

Today we are showing our grateful hearts, join in with Laurie at womentakingastand. We are praising the ONE who holds it all in His hands.

I have so much to be thankful for! Thank you Jesus, that I see!

Last weekend my girls and I went "Deeper Still" with Priscilla Shirer and 1500 other women. The event was held less than 3 miles from my house. The LORD met us there....and poured over us like oil! He spoke to all of us in MIGHTY POWERFUL ways. He Heard our cries and in very personal ways and let each of us know, he knew, what we needed to hear. He Speaks, and I am so THANKFUL that I hear! Jonah...Jonah...Jonah - YES LORD, I hear and I will obey. I started the new Priscilla Shirer bible study Jonah, Sunday :) It's AMAZING already - thank you Lord for Jer. 29:11 and confirming your Word!

Sunday - was a continuation of walking with our God in celebration. The Holy Spirit poured out in our worship Sunday morning and when His servant and magnificant singer Elaine belted out "This is how it feels to be free" well - I couldn't help but jump out of my seat with my hands in the air!! Thanking Jesus for setting me FREE!

Sunday evening we celebrated my son's girlfriend Megan's baptism! All the angels in Heaven were rejoicing with us!

Megan's Eternal birthday! So blessed to celebrate with her!

We received an update on my niece Stacy (in the motorcycle accident) yesterday - she will not need surgery on her ankle - ANSWERED prayer!! Our prayers for Kristie and baby Ike, have been heard - the LORD is sustaining them both! Our prayers for 3yr. old Nathan and his family, have been heard - his parents heard him cry and speak yesterday, 1st time in over a week - and they cried. Praise you Jesus for hearing our prayers!

What an AMAZING God we serve!!

This is how it feels to be FREE!!

(scroll back up and stop the music before playing the video)

Scripture Memory 2010 - August 1

2010-08-02T05:54:00.000-05:00

"For I know the plans I have for you", declares the LORD, "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

These words and I go way back, through some really tough stuff together. My brother sent me a journal with these words in the front 10 years ago. These words are inscribed on the entry wall to my church - The first thing you see upon entering. These words to me are deeply seated at the core of my foundation in Christ. They describe the kind of God we serve, and the kind of life he wants for us. The kind of life He's given me, for which I am truly grateful. These words speak life to me. These words fill me with hope. They help me keep on keeping on.

Lord, I know you have a plan for each one of us. Plans to prosper us to give us hope and a future. Your plan is never to harm, protect us from those whose plan is to harm, keep us safe in the shelter of your wings. In Jesus name, Amen.

Thankful Thursday 7-29-10

2010-07-29T05:31:00.002-05:00

Thankful Thursday is here and I want to joyfully CRY out in PRAISE with my sista's on Lynn's site, so the stones don't have to (Luke 19:40)! Join with us in giving Praise and Thanks for all the LORD has done!

Wow, what a day yesterday held....I had no idea -my mind would've never conceived what the LORD had in store for me! Let me paint you the picture...

I saw the LORD..Clear out two conference rooms prior to two meetings I had to set up simultaneously to start at 10am! That NEVER happens at my work! I couldn't have planned and prepared enough for that to happen. Not my doing at all - but the LORD'S! I CRY OUT THANK YOU JESUS!!!

I saw the LORD..answer a desperate plea that I hadn't had time to send by email to initiate an express Visa to Israel. Interrupted by the two meetings above, and a VERY busy day, that I know was orchestrated by the LORD, by the time I was getting ready to type the email, I received an email stating that the very same employee's invitation would be in Houston within 2-3 days! That NEVER happened before. I have tried numerous times this past year to make that happen - each time unsuccessful. This was not my doing at all - but the LORD'S! I CRY OUT THANK YOU JESUS!!

I saw the LORD..show me He heard my prayer from the morning. The 2nd meeting at 10am was a Speaker Conference for the Office Admins. (me + 15 others attended). Right at the end of the meeting she spoke about Breathing in and Breathing out, Ebb and flow - giving and receiving...My written devotion for yesterday 7/28 asked, How were you created in God's image? I wrote: "I was made in God's image when he placed in me my heart and His Breath of life. Every moment I'm given breath, I am able to live life to the fullest. I am able to breathe in and fill my body with His Power, His Grace, His Mercy, His Forgiveness and His Love. I am able to Breathe out His Power, His Grace, His Mercy, His Forgiveness and His Love because he filled me and I overflow. Lord, help me to remember to breathe in and out, AMEN". I CRY OUT THANK YOU JESUS for letting me know you hear and answer my prayers!

I saw the LORD..sustain me when I came home from work and was confronted yet again with an ugly battle that keeps raising it's ugly head. Not only did the LORD sustain me, but He had the answer in two devotions written and received in my email within 35 minutes of each other at 9:07am and 9:42am on 7/28. He gave me the same two scriptures to stand on in each of their devotions, before I even knew about the battle or that I'd face one; God knew, and answered before I called. Romans 8:28 and Jer. 29:11. I CRY OUT THANK YOU JESUS!!

I saw the LORD..fulfill His promise today. ISA. 65:24 Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear. I CRY OUT THANK YOU JESUS!

I stand in AWE!

Thankful Thursday 7-22-10

2010-07-22T06:23:00.001-05:00

Thankful Thursday is a day of the week in which we purposefully set aside to reflect on the GRACE the LORD has shown us throughout our week. It turns our hearts and minds on the marvelous work God has done in us, around us or for us. Focusing on the good on purpose keeps our eyes fixed on Jesus. When your eyes are fixed on Him, our worries, problems fade into the background. Fixing your eyes on Jesus is putting God First.

Hebrews 12: 1-2a

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders, and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perserverence the race marked out for us.

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.

Please join in with Lynn and see the Great cloud of witnesses proclaiming thanks and giving praise to Jesus. Embrace the gift of gratitude.

I'm grateful for:

Eyes - to see the visible work of the Lord

Ears - to hear testimonies from friends and family

Mouth - to speak words of encouragement

Nose - to smell the flowers, cookies baking, and a place to set my glasses

Hands - to reach out to those in need, to touch, embrace and to fold in prayer

Thankful Thursday 7-15-10 & Scripture Memory Verse

2010-07-15T05:31:00.001-05:00

Today I will join in with Lynn and offer Thanks to the LORD for it is right to give Him all the Praise!
Let everything that has breath, Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD. PS. 150:6

Today is my Daughter Alicia's 24th birthday. I Praise the LORD for Alicia in my life. She is full of wisdom beyond her years. She makes me smile when I hear her talking with her children. She is beautiful inside and out. Full of life, full of love. She loves the LORD and is learning more and more about Him - Hungry for His Word. Praise the LORD! Lord, bless Alicia today, give her your sheild of victory, meet her every need, and help her to grow deeper in a rich relationship with you. Open her eyes Lord, that she may see wonderful things in your Word. In Jesus name, Amen
Friday is my Grandson Joey's 3rd birthday. I Praise the LORD for Joey in my life. He gets so excited when he sees Pocca Don(Papa Don), this past weekend he ran over threw his little arms in the air, hugged Don's neck and said "Pocca Don, I love you so much". Joey sat in Don's embrace for about 10 minutes, it just melted my man's heart. He was ready to hand him his credit card and car keys. Praise the LORD! Imagine how Jesus would feel, if we noticed Him in the room with us, we dropped everything, ran over to Him threw our hands in the air for a huge embrace and said Jesus...I love you so much, and just sat in His embrace for 10 minutes. I'm picturing Pure JOY! Melting the heart of the Father!
I Praise the LORD His right hand sustained me while having a few conversations with several people at work who can stir me up big time. The Lord put His shield of victory around me, and every conversation I had turned out well. Praise the LORD!
I Praise the LORD for my memory verses that remind me of His promises, and remind me to keep walking in His commands. I Praise the LORD for my new verse for July 15th from The Message. May I embrace what God does for me and may I place my everyday life as an offering with HIS help!
Romans 12:1 TM“So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him.”

Praise the LORD.

Happy Birthday to two of my favorite girls!

2010-07-12T06:09:00.001-05:00

Today is my daughter Desiree's 26th birthday and my friend Beth's Birthday (An Instrument 4 His Glory). Though I won't be with either today, I will celebrate their day. I Praise God for two woman who love the LORD. I Praise God they seek to know Him more. I Praise God they have both helped me become stronger in my walk - leaning harder into Him, trusting Him more, standing together we are like "iron sharpening iron".

I'm so glad for today to celebrate with them, for the LORD has blessed me by placing them in my life. Thank you Jesus for Desiree and Beth. Look to the "1" who crowns you with Glory!
Happy Birthday Desiree! Happy Birthday Beth!
Love,
Mom (Julie)

Thankful Thursday 7-8-10

2010-07-08T05:22:00.000-05:00

This morning I am joining in with Lynn giving Thanks to the LORD for He is good and His Love endures FOREVER!!

This past week the LORD and the angels have been working overtime in my family and I'd like to SHOUT Hallelujah, thank you JESUS for:

1. Saving Stacy's life - my 25yr old niece Stacy was in a motorcycle accident June 26. Praise God she was wearing her helmet and face shield, or she wouldn't have had a face left. The hospital staff took pictures of the condition of the helmet. Her left leg was almost severed, and she had 2 surgeries just to clean out the debris. They have stitched the wounds, but she still has a long way to go in healing. Her tendons and muscles were detached from her ankle, and we are praying for the LORD to heal that completely without having surgery. She was released from the hospital Friday 7-2-10 - shout HALLELUJAH!

2. Dad's heart revealed 70% or more blockage and last Friday 7-2-10 he went in for a heart cath. They were going to see if they could place a stint or if he needed bypass surgery. They tried to go in through the arm, but there was something blocking the way, and went through the groin. On their way past the Kidney they discovered what they called nodules which can reduce the blood flow to the kidneys, which increases his blood pressure. When they got up to the part which showed the blockage....it had COMPLETELY DISAPPEARED!! There was NO blockage. They even showed my step mom and brother the before and after pictures. PRAISE God!! The nodules can be helped with medication, and his blood pressure is already coming down!! shout HALLELUJAH!

3. I've been praying for a man who works with one of the managers I support. He went into a coma about a month ago. Last week, he woke up and they now have him up an about. They thought he would have some sort of organ damage, and there is NONE!! PRAISE God! shout HALLELUJAH!

4. Baby Ele, born in April weighing 1lb 11.5 oz., is on her way home yesterday, 97days after being born. This is my sister-in-law's(Stacy's mom) great niece. You can read the praise and honor given to the LORD by clicking here The Bratton Family shout HALLELUJAH!

5. I shout HALLELUJAH, thank you JESUS, LORD you're WORTHY of all the GLORY and all the HONOR and all the PRAISE- Makes me want to Shout!

Scripture Memory 2010 - July 1

2010-07-03T10:10:00.001-05:00

You give me your shield of victory, and your right hand sustains me; you stoop down to make me great.

You broaden the path beneath me, so that my ankles do not turn.

Ps. 18: 35-36

Heavenly Father, I come before you today with Thanksgiving in my heart and Praise on my lips.

Lord thank you for your Word that brings healing and victory over my thoughts and turns my life around. Thank you for sustaining me with your right hand and for keeping my feet on the right path. Thank you for broadening that path beneath my feet, so that my ankles do not turn. For who is God besides the LORD? And who is the ROCK except our God?

Thank you for being my ROCK. Thank you for stooping down and picking this child up again! For though a righteous man falls seven times, he rises again. Prov. 24:16a

Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God. They are brought to their knees and fall, but we rise up and stand firm. Ps. 20: 7-8

Hallelujah - Our God reigns!

Scripture Memory 2010 - June 15

2010-06-15T06:20:00.000-05:00

Isa. 43:10-11
"You are my witnesses," declares the LORD "and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor will there be one after me.
"I, even I, am the LORD, and apart from me there is no savior.

Lord,
I come before you this morning, with gratitude and thankfulness in my heart for choosing me. Help me to be a bold, passionate and joyful witness to everyone around me, because I know, I believe and I understand that you are MY God, My Jesus, and there is NO other savior. You saved me, redeemed me and turned me around - may my life reflect the mercy and grace you offered me. May I live my life as a reflection of that love, that it beckons others to run after you. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

On the 1st and 15th of each month, I post the scripture The LORD lays on my heart that I believe He'll work in me. Join me in BELIEVING the Lord to work in us and through us -renewing our minds with His WORD. He'll AMAZE you. What scripture are you believing the LORD to work in you?

Thankful Thursday 6-10-10

2010-06-10T05:20:00.000-05:00

Today I am thankful and smiling...Giving THANKS to My JESUS, Our GREAT and POWERFUL LORD.

I thank Him for hearing our prayers, for His protection over His children.

I thank Him for Speaking to me in so many ways! He speaks my language! He knows what encourages this child of HIS.

I thank Him for memorial rocks to remind us of what He's done in our lives. He taught me so much about who He says I am, and who He is. This is mine:

And this is Don's

I thank Him for an awesome trip for Don who is spending time with his sisters, reflecting over their lives. He first stopped in Baltimore to take pictures of his "Old home town", and visit the church that invited him in to join Vacation Bible School, as he peered into the windows on tippy toes at the age of 5. Then flew to Vermont where he met up with the girls. His flight was delayed, but that gave him time to put together a slideshow. My daughter Alicia found this perfect song (click the link to listen) The house that built me, and we emailed the link. Don played it right after they veiwed the pictures...He said it was perfect, they all teared up! Thank you Lord for perfect timing!

I thank Him that Don will be coming home tonight from his trip with a mission, and for these pretty flowers that arrived yesterday, right after the rain. They brought sunshine and a smile to get me through until he's home again.

I thank the Lord and smile.

May your Day be Bright, and Thank Him that He holds you tight!

Join in with Iris to Give Him Thanks and read others thankful posts.

Scripture Memory 2010 - June 1 Sparkle for Jesus

2010-06-01T06:20:00.000-05:00

Zech: 9:16

The LORD their God will save them on that day as the flock of his people. They will sparkle in his land like jewels in a crown.

Lord, thank you for saving me, for calling me your people. For you are My God! I want to sparkle in your land, in this world - in my home and work, Lord help me to sparkle and be your bling. Do it Lord in me that others will come to know you because you sparkle in me.

It's been about a month or so since I bought a very cute top with glitter sprinkled through out the design. The first day I wore it, I left a trail of glitter every where I had been. The Lord spoke to me about being his glitter, his sparkle...and leaving a trail for him, upon all he brings my way each day. Even after I washed and dried the shirt...there was sparkle in the lint (the prettiest lint I had ever seen). I prayed, Lord help me to sparkle like the lint.

I was tickled when I found this verse, Our God wants us to sparkle in his land - He's vibrant and He wants us to be his bling! He wants us to leave a trail of sparkle behind us, touching everything - even the things this world would throw away (the lint).

Put on your bling for the LORD girls...let us shine, let us shine, let us shine. It makes Jesus smile!

What has the LORD shown you? What scripture speaks to your heart? On the 1st and 15th of each month, I post the scripture The LORD lays on my heart that I believe He'll work in me. Join me in BELIEVING the Lord to work in us and through us -renewing our minds with His WORD. He'll AMAZE you.

Thankful Thursday 5-27-10

2010-05-27T05:47:00.000-05:00

Today, won't you join Laurie at women taking a stand and Enter His gates with Thanksgiving and Praise.

As I glance back over my week I am so thankful for the LORD's presence in each and every day.

I'm thankful for Don and the Lord putting him in my life!

I'm thankful for the celebration of Don's birthday we enjoyed last Thursday.

I'm thankful for my family to celebrate with.

I'm thankful to celebrate and live in America.

I'm thankful for Memorial day - a day to remember:

Sacrifices made

Lives lost

Victories won

All for freedom - yours and mine.

I thank all the Service men and women and their families, past and present.

Stand proud, stand firm, stand knowing what you do and have done is appreciated.

Remember them in your prayers.

I thank Jesus who gave His life to win the victory over death!

Let us stand united and remember. Set up memorial stones like Joshua, so when our children ask, we can tell them of the Lord's might and power. Let us do so on purpose.

Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.

One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts.

They will speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty, and I will meditate on your wonderful works.

They will tell of the power of your awesome works, and I will proclaim your great deeds.

They will celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness.

Psalm 145:3-7

Celebrate and Remember this Memorial Day with Thanksgiving in your hearts!

Scripture Memory 2010 - May 15

2010-05-16T12:41:00.000-05:00

1 Thes. 5:8 (NIV)

But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.

Lord, help us to obey your word, even when it's hard. Help us to be self-controlled in all situations. Remind us to put on FAITH and LOVE, before we hit the floor running, and no matter what, never, never give up HOPE.

Help us to be more like you daily.

In Jesus Name I pray, AMEN.

Thanful Thursday 5-13-10

2010-05-06T06:06:00.000-05:00

Today won't you join Laurie at women taking a stand and Enter His gates with Thanksgiving and Praise.

You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Ps. 16:11

Thank you Jesus for these precious memories you have lavished on us!

Pre-Mother's day retreat with my girls!

Elaborate & Extravagant - That's Our God!!

Scripture Memory 2010 - May 1

2010-05-02T09:01:00.000-05:00

Col 3:17

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Thursday afternoon overwhelmed me to the point of wanting to just run away, never to return to my job again. I was on the verge of tears, feeling very incapable of handling anything at that point, let alone doing it well. Inadequate.

Thank God for Friday, and our retreat. Being able to share in a reprive with my girls! What a joy they are to this mother's heart. We came home filled, and tired.

Today, I don't want to dread going back to work tomorrow. I want to be equipped and prepared to face tomorrow. I want to be obedient, and perservere. To run the race set before me. And this is the verse that calls to my weakness...that makes me want to keep on keeping on. I will do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus...giving Thanks!! I want to represent him well! Do it Lord, in and through me, I will remain in you.

Thankful Thursday 4-28-10

2010-04-29T05:15:00.002-05:00

This is the day the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it! Join in with Lynn and give thanks, for the Lord has blessed us abundantly!

So Marvelous is our God! This past week there were so many unexpected joys and God stops, it's hard to pick which ones to write about. Every where I looked, I saw God's hand at work...AMAZING is our LORD!

It's Amazing when you find out you have even more in common with a blogging friend than what you would have or could have ever imagined! Thank you Jesus for bringing the most awesome people into our lives through this amazing technology. Iron sharpening iron!
An Orchard in our back yard - yes the "Fruit bearing" kind! Last weekend Don and I spent the afternoon purchasing and planting our young trees. A plum, black cherry, bing cherry and a peach tree. The peach and plum already have small fruit on them. We also planted a Japanese Red Emperor Maple, and hung a beautiful sounding wind chime. The Lord blessed us even with the wind to make the chimes play!! Thank you Jesus for our backyard santuary!
Seeing the Lord clearing the paths at work and restoring relationships among the 29 OA's there. It's been years of tumultuous waters...BUT GOD.....ISA 43:18 Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See I am doing a NEW thing. Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. Thank you JESUS!!
I thank the Lord for helping me complete our vacation memory book (from Spring break) over the weekend and placing my order on Sunday. To be shipped in 6-15 days, BUT GOD........ made a way and Tuesday evening it was at my front door! Whoo wee... How Awesome is that?! And it looks Fantastic! Our God is Extraordinary!!
Friday, my girls and I will be blessed with 24hrs away on a pre-Mothers day getaway. We are spending the night at the Renaissance Hotel, right down the street. My hearts desire was to get a room with a jacuzzi tub for relishing in total relaxation, however the only room including a jacuzzi tub was the Presidential suite. It runs $1000 dollars a night...WHOA ...So, I booked a regular suite, which is very nice, and thought we would just visit the hot tub by the pool.....BUT GOD had my desire in mind....Tuesday afternoon I received a call from Tonya and she said she talked to her manager and they would let me have the room for $249!! The same price as the suite. 1/4th the price...WHOOWEE!! You should've heard my girls....THAT's GOD! He LAVISHES HIS LOVE on us!! Holy and AWESOME is His Name! Holy Spirit fall fresh on us, refresh and revive us Lord, meet us there!!

Psalm 111:2-3

Great are the works of the LORD; they are pondered by all who delight in them.
Glorious and majestic are his deeds, and his righteousness endures forever.

Thankful Thursday & Scripture Memory 4-15-10

2010-04-15T19:47:00.000-05:00

This is the day the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it! Join in with Lynn and give thanks, for the Lord has blessed us abundantly!

Today is also my scripture memory day (1st and 15th of every month). This is a 2fer1 deal!

Practice, Practice, Practice....This has been the theme currently flowing through my days. I give the LORD thanks for quite a practice field! Living in this world gives us a great opportunity every day! I have been practicing renewing my mind, with His WORD, and practicing my walk in the fruits of the Spirit. I have had success and failure, but I praise Jesus for remaining the same.

Sunday, the LORD blessed me with a whole church service...and I know it was for me alone! It was so customized, the worship, the lesson, and the passages read from scripture, I almost thought the Pastor had hired a spy to watch my every move, and record my every prayer, and thought! ONLY GOD!! Just AMAZING. He Lavished His Love on me! Thank you Jesus!

Monday came, and immediately I was back on the practice field! How quickly the peace, the refreshing, the rest just can disappear! Monday evening during our family bible study we ended the gospel of John...I learned I must follow Jesus and obey His commands, and when I've tried everything and failed.....He'll show me the way...throw the net on the right side of the boat!

The fruits of the Spirit are spelled out in Galatians 5:22-23: Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. What I have learned is I cannot...... no matter how hard I try...... produce this fruit on my own. I must remain in the vine! Jesus is the Vine!
My prayer ...Lord, help me remain in you, and my new scripture memory verse is this:

John 15:5

I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.

In your power LORD and in your strength, in this world and in my day, may I bear MUCH fruit...this I pray.

Thankful Thursday 4-8-10, Who He says I am

2010-04-08T06:34:00.000-05:00

Join in with Lynn and Give Thanks to the Holy One...Today I am thankful for who God says I am. I choose today to let go of my grievances, and find my identity, not in how I feel, but in who He says I am.
I am:
A: Abounding, Acknowledged, Adopted, Alive, Annointed, the Apple of His eye, Appointed, Aroma of Christ
B: Beautiful, Believer, Beloved, Blessed, Bold, Bought, Bride
C: Called, Child, Chosen, Clay, Comforted, Complete, Confident, Counseled, Courageous, Covered, Crowned
D: Dancing, Daughter, Defended, Delivered, Desired, Dependent, Devoted, Disciple, Directed
E: Effective, Encouraged, Enlightened, Enriched, Equipped, Excited, Expecting
F: Favored, Faithful, Fearless, Filled, Firm, Following, Forgiven, Found, Fragrance, Free, Friend
G: Gentle, Giving, Gleaning, Glorified, Glad, Graceful, Growing, Guarded, Guided
H: Happy, Healed, Heard, Heir, Helped, Hemmed in, His, Holy, Honored, Humbled
I: Important, Influenced, Individual, Inspired, Intimate, Instructed
J: Joyful, Jubilant, Justified
K: Knowledgeable, Known
L: Learning, Light, Listening, Living, Loved, Loyal
M: Made, Marked, Merciful, Mindful, Missionary, Miracle, Motivated, Moved
N: New, Never alone, Nourished, Numbered
O: Obedient, Offspring, One with Christ,, Optimistic, Overcomer, Overflowing
P: Passionate, Participating, Patient, Peaceful, Powerful, Perfected, Persistent, Praising, Praying, Precious, Predestined, Prepared, Present, Priceless, Priest, Privileged, Progressing, Promised, Proof, Protected, Provided, Pure, Purified, Purposed
Q: Quieted
R: Radiant, Ransomed, Redeemed, Refined, Refreshed, Reminded, Repentant, Restored, Rested, Rich
S: Sanctified, Satisfied, Saved, Sealed, Searched, Secure, Seeking, Self controled, Stilled, Strengthened, Strong, Summoned
T: Taught, Thankful, Temple, Treasured, Trusting
U: Understanding, Unified, Unique, United, Unveiled
V: Valuable, Victorious
W: Walking, Wise, Witness, Wonderful
X: X-rayed
Z: Zealous

Thank You JESUS!!

Scripture Memory 2010 - March 15 & April 1

2010-04-03T09:41:00.000-05:00

Ps. 31:25-26

She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.

She speaks with wisdom and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

Webster defines dignity as 1 : the quality or state of being worthy, honored, or esteemed

I know, no one is worthy, But God sent his son, that we can now walk worthy in Him. Lord, I am standing on your WORD, I love you with all that is within me...help me practice walking and talking with strength, dignity, wisdom and faithful instruction flowing forth from me! Strong and confident..and light enough to laugh at days to come, because you have me hemmed in.
Lord, if there is one who is not "feeling" strong today...draw them close to you, that they may draw strength from you!
And Lord, if there is one who doesn't know you...I pray, they may see you right here, bow their head and say...Lord Jesus, Help me...Forgive me...I need you, come into my heart, Make me NEW...Do it Lord. He will. He's calling. If you just prayed the Angels in Heaven are rejoicing and so am I - leave me a comment. I'd love to encourage you in your New walk. It's a wild ride!

On the 1st and the 15th of each month,(missed this time, so I combined two) I will post my scripture memory verse, Won't you join me in this wonderful journey of renewing our minds? Let me know by leaving your Scripture verse (typed out in full), Reference, your name and city in my thoughts section. You may memorize the verse I pick or one of your own.

God is who He says He is!

2010-03-30T22:22:00.001-05:00

Join in with Lynn and Give Thanks to the Holy One...
Who is God? What is He like? In my seeking, here is some of who I believe Him to be. Thank you Jesus for unveiling my eyes and revealing Him to me.
He is:

A: Abba, Able, Adonai, Advocate, Alive, All in all, Almighty, Alpha, Amazing, Astounding, Awesome
B: Beautiful, Beginning, Bestower, Big, Breath, Bridge
C: Caring, Chain-breaker, CHRIST, Comforter, Conqueror, Corner stone, Counselor, Compassionate, Creator
D: Deep, Defender, Deliverer, Discerner, Door
E: Elaborate, Elohim, El Roi, El Shaddai, End, Endless, Eternal, Everlasting, Ever-present, Extravagant
F: Faithful, Father, Firm, First, Forever, Fortress, Foundation
G: Gate keeper, Generous, Gentle, Glory, Glorious, GOD, Good, Gracious, Great, Guide
H: Healer, Hiding place, Holy, Holy Spirit, Hope giver, Huge
I: IAM, Immanuel, Immortal, Indescribable, Indisputable, Infinite, Instructor, Invincible
J: Jealous, Jehovah, JESUS, Joy, Judge, Just
K: King of Kings, Kind, Knowledge
L: Lamb, Last, Lavishness, Life, Lifter, Light, Lion, LORD of Lords, Love
M: Magnificant, Maker, Majestic, Merciful, Mighty, Most High, Mountain mover
N: Name above all names, Never-ending, Noble
O: Omega, Omnipresent, Omnipotent
P: Path, Patient, Peace, Perfecter, Presence, Preserver, Prince, Protector, Provider, Powerful, Potter, Pure
Q: Quencher, Quick
R: Radiant, Redeemer, Refiner, Refuge, Renewer, Rescuer, Restorer, Revealer, Righteous, Risen, Rock, Royal, Ruler
S: Salvation, Satisfier, Savior, Shelter, Shepherd, Seal, Shield, Son of David, Spirit, Stronghold, Strongtower, Sustainer
T: Teacher, Treasure, Trinity, Triumphant, True, Truth
U: Unexplainable, Unsearchable, Universe maker, Universal, Utmost
V: Vibrant, Vine, Victorious
W: Way, Wisdom, Wonderful, WORD, Worthy
X: Xanadu, X-rayer
Y: Yes, YWHW
Z: Zealous

Dig into His WORD, He'll show you who He is!

Thankful Thursday 3-25-10

2010-03-25T06:00:00.002-05:00

Join in with us for Thankful Thursday. Laurie is hosting. Stop by and lift your spirit and rejoice with a grateful heart!

I am so Thankful I took a full week off from work last week, and it was truly GLORIOUS!
I am so Thankful for the unexpected JOY of being blessed with First Class seat on our way to San Antonio - That's GOD...First Class all the WAY! We threw our hands up in the air and shouted Hallelujah!
I am so Thankful to have the opportunity to see the show AZUL at SeaWorld, it was truly AMAZING.
I am so Thankful to have been picked to win an on line conference "A Woman Inspired – Get Revived 2010". I was able to join in Thursday and Friday, and the speakers were great!! Thank you Jesus for REVIVING my spirit! I can't wait for the MP3's to be available to listen to the speakers I missed.
I am so Thankful to celebrate my 48th birthday today with my beautiful family. I am Thankful for the last 10years of my life choosing JESUS, and walking with HIM! He took my BROKENNESS, and made me BEAUTIFUL...Ps 30: 11-12 You turned my wailing into DANCING; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with JOY, That my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever.

Happy TT day! May the Lord make His face to shine upon you today! Thankyou Laurie, you are an Awesome Host!

Thankful Thursday 3-11-10

2010-03-11T20:43:00.000-06:00

Join in with us for Thankful Thursday. Laurie is hosting. Stop by and lift your spirit and rejoice with a grateful heart!

I want to Thank Jesus for His Forgiveness and Grace, and thank Him for teaching us how to do the same. Today we finished our study on Grace and Forgiveness.

Through out the 10 weeks that we spent reading aloud and discussing what we were learning, a common thread between us came to the surface. We were all more aware of our actions and reactions with other people, that we needed to quickly forgive. Week after week we would all start out saying how many opportunities we had to choose forgiveness, and we gave plenty of examples.

Were we being tested? Or was Jesus opening our eyes to the number of times each day we would need to extend forgiveness and grace? I think it may have been both.

Was it easy? Definitely not at first, but as the weeks progressed and we recognized it happening, the easier it became.

Did we feel like forgiving? Definitely not, we were just offended, hurt or lied to, or (fill in the blank)_____.

But we learned how F.R.E.E.I.N.G it was, by being obedient and choosing to Forgive, and doing it quickly. I have to admit it's just too exhausting for me to not extend forgiveness. Holding onto unforgiveness, anger, grudges and offenses......replaying them in my mind, over and over and over again, can just plum wear you out and make you miserable.

Thank you Jesus for opening my eyes, for helping me to practice the gift of Forgiveness daily.

Thankful Thursday 3-4-10

2010-03-04T05:51:00.000-06:00

Today, join in with us for Thankful Thursday. Laurie is hosting. Stop by and lift your spirit and rejoice with a grateful heart!

Jesus, thank you for sending the Counselor, the Holy Spirit!

He lives with us and will be with us.

He guides us into all truth.

He will bring glory to Jesus by making what is Jesus' known to us.

He will tell us what is yet to come.

He reminds us of everything Jesus has said to us.

He teaches us all things.

John 15:4 Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

Scripture Memory 2010 - March 1

2010-03-01T05:30:00.002-06:00

Isaiah 45:2-3 (NIV)

2 I will go before you and will level the mountains;

I will break down gates of bronze and cut through bars of iron.

3 I will give you the treasures of darkness,
riches stored in secret places,

so that you may know that I am the LORD, the God of Israel,
who summons you by name.

How Awesome is Our God?!

God bless you and increase your belief as you fill your mind with His word! May His Word come alive in you!

Thankful Thursday 2-18-10

2010-02-18T06:10:00.000-06:00

I'm so glad it's Thankful Thursday! Join in with Iris and let us know what you are grateful for! It's a wonderful place to join others who have set their eyes on Jesus, and Praise Him for all He has done and is doing in our lives!

I want to Thank Jesus for our wonderful son's achievement of passing his driving test! We had a wonderful celebration with chocolate cake after dinner Friday. We prayed over Alex and his car, that God would send his angels to protect him at all times!
I want to Thank Jesus for Alex's new girl friend, Sadie. Saturday was the Military ball, and we met her and her family for the first time. She has a beautiful uplifting bubbly spirit. We drove them to the ball. We joined them in time to see Alex perform his rifle twirling routine. They all did so well, no one dropped their gun, and they were all very relieved and thankful! Thank you Jesus for Alex's high school offering AFJROTC.
I want to Thank Jesus for Sunday, Valentine's Day. Sunday was absolutely the "Perfect" day! My neighbor Marie (she's the cutest 86 yr. old with a heart for Jesus) called to see if we could take her to church. Her church is right across the street from ours. Alex drove his car, she was in the front, just smiling. We gave her a homemade valentine card, and you would have thought we bought her a new house. She was so pleased! When we arrived at our Church, my daughter Desi and her boys met us there...a unexpected joy indeed!! They drove up from Stroud, and hour away. The message preached was on the "widow with only a little bit of oil" It was an incredible message, that has stirred me up!! Then we had prayer, prayer for the Holy Spirit to cause miracles!! It was powerful! Church ran over by more than an hour, and no one even noticed, because the Holy Spirit was moving and shaking me and that place! Praise God! We got home, and Alicia joined us all for a bible study! The Holy Spirit reminded us of so many things, and we all talked about the mighty power He has shown us. Oh...it was a perfect day! We exchanged Roses, and chocolates, and gifts. But the greatest thing we all shared in that day was the Love of Jesus, and our love for each other!
I want to Thank Jesus for hemming me in, behind and before, He has laid his hand upon me.
I want to Thank Jesus for this blogging world, a place to share His love for us, a place to uplift His name, and each other, and the excellent friends I have met.

Jesus Loves me this I know! Thank you Jesus that we can all know.

Scripture Memory 2010 - February 15

2010-02-15T05:56:00.000-06:00

Good morning,

My scripture memory verse today, comes out of Psalm 139. I have been praying this Psalm over so many the past 15 days, it just spells out how God knows everything about us. All our days were ordained before one of them came to be. He knows it all! And is not surprised by that which catches us off guard.

PS. 139:5

You hem me in - behind and before.

You have laid your hand upon me.

On the 1st and the 15th of each month, I will post my scripture memory verse, Won't you join me in this wonderful journey of renewing our minds? Let me know by leaving your Scripture verse (typed out in full), Reference, your name and city in my thoughts section. You may memorize the verse I pick or one of your own.

Jesus, thank you for hemming me in and for the reassurance that nothing can touch my life, that hasn't first come through you. I will be secure, under the protection of your hand. Your hand is big enough to handle everything that comes my way. I sit amazed by your love, and I will walk through each day knowing you have gone before me and you've got my back! I claim it for my life. In Jesus name. Amen

Thankful Thursday 2-11-10

2010-02-11T05:41:00.000-06:00

I'm joining in with Iris at Grace Alone to give God the Glory and Thanks for all the wonderful things He has lavished on me!

This week so many people answered our call to surround my nephew Mark in prayer 24/7. the outpouring of love shown to us has been incredible, people from everywhere signing up for certain times of the day to help this young Dad make it through a 45 day journey in a re-hab facility. If you would like to join in please send an email to jahuff@valornet.com and let me know your name, city and what time slot you would like. Glory to God!!
This past week we received Glorious news, my niece Kristie and her husband Morgan are expecting their first child!! We have been praying for about a year! 1 Sam.2:27 I prayed for this Child, and the LORD has granted me what I asked of Him!! Glory to God!!
I Thank the Lord that everyday holds miracles, everyday bestows His wonders and that He removed the veil away from my eyes so that I may see His Glory, the day I turned around and ran into His Loving and Forgiving arms. Glory to God!!
I Thank God , For the Lord God is a sun and sheild, and yesterday we saw the sun shining in Oklahoma!! It's been quite a while, but O how good it is to see the Sun!! Glory to God!!
I Thank God for my Aunt Carol's successful Heart surgery, and for her speedy recovery! Glory to God!!

Jesus, You alone are God. And we sing our Praises to you!

Update on Mark

2010-02-10T06:09:00.002-06:00

Hi Everyone,

Wow...I am amazed at all the responses. God is so awesome! He's covered in prayer.

Sunday was a little emotional for us. Dennis went to visit Mark and said that Mark wanted to come home....he cried....and the short story is he was a mess. Shortly after Dennis left, Mark called Larry and said he wanted to come home...he then called Andria and later that night he called me. He said that they had only given him 1/2 abilify and a vitamin and if that was all they would do to help him, he could do it at home. He said that they didn't give him a patch or nicotine gum to help with not smoking....he was using any excuse in the book. It was hard to hear him so aggrevated yet depressed and asking to come home.

Monday came with a little encouraging news....Mark's counselor Josh called and said he met with Mark for about 45 minutes today and discussed short term medication and long term medication and that Mark seemed accepting of it and then when the meeting was over Josh said that Mark apologized and said he was sorry that they got off on the wrong foot and that he knew they were only trying to help him.

I want so bad to be jumping up and down and woohooing everything and everyone but I'm so skeptical.... I feel like it's too soon and he's just telling them what they want to hear.....but this is where I should be trusting God and seeing his hand in this...there are dozens of people praying for Mark!

Ok...onto a little funny...my 3am prayer time wasn't hard the first night but last night...now... that was a different story. I got up easily with the alarm and went right to the dining room to pray...Andria was asleep on the couch so I didn't turn on the light. I knelt by the chair and started to pray...I'm guessing I prayed for about 10 minutes...then the next thing I knew I had pain in both of my legs....pins and needles....and I looked up at the clock and it was 3:45.....hahahaha. *Note to self....turn on light and get a drink....wake up before you pray silly girl!

Thank you for all you are doing for Mark, Larry and me...I love you.

Prayer button for Mark

2010-02-09T19:45:00.000-06:00

Thank you Mary & Edie for the prayer button for Mark. Thank you Beth, Jackie, Sarah, Mary, Andrea for standing in the gap praying for my nephew!

Ps. 29:6-7

Praise be to the LORD, for he has heard my cry for mercy!! The LORD is my strength and my sheild; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song!

What a sweet sweet aroma you all are in my life! I wish I could give you each a HUGE HUG!
My heart is leaping with joy and gratitude!!
Love,
Julie

We Cry Out - Kari Jobe

2010-02-07T12:31:00.000-06:00

Psalm 145 A walk through His Word

2010-02-05T23:31:00.000-06:00

Welcome to Oklahoma's winter wonder land

Last weekend amidst the winter storm, icy roads, delayed and cancelled flights...My Dad and StepMom arrived Saturday evening, right on time. And we Praised God. It has been 5 years since they were in Oklahoma. Their home is in Pennsylvania. The Lord made Oklahoma look like Pennsylvania in the winter, more like home. He decorated the trees with ice to sparkle and shine like tinsel on a Christmas tree!

Desiree, Jason, Justin, Great Poppop, Caleb, me, Alex

We took them to Desiree and Jason's in Stroud, OK Sunday after church to meet their Grand son-in-love Jason and their 2 Great Grandsons, Justin and Caleb. It was like they had known each other all their lives. The boys were so sweet.

Joey, Great Poppop, Carolyn, Alicia, Hannah, Martin

We drove back, had dinner and stopped by Alicia and Martin's, to meet their Great Granddaughters and Great Grandson, Diana, Hannah and Joseph. Once again, the children welcomed them like they had know them all their lives. What a wonderful joy!

Joey and Great Poppop

The conversations were wonderful, full of excitement, alot of laughter, smiles, full of peace and joy! Dad talked of his many memories with a captive audience. We added our memories with his, and conversations ran late into the night. It was a great visit! New memories have been made, and will last a life time!

Justin and Great Poppop

Ps. 145 reminds me of our visit. We glorified the Lord and talked amongst 4 generations! We walked in the steps of scripture.

Ps. 145:3-7 Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts. They will speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty, and I will meditate on your wonderful works, and I will proclaim your great deeds. They will celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness.

Most Awesome!

Scripture Memory 2010 - February 1

2010-02-01T06:08:00.000-06:00

Scripture Memory - Renew your mind

The last few weeks upon searching the WORD..the Awesome Word of God, what has popped out like no other is the fact that the Lord has already given us everything. Everything He's ever asked us to give Him, He first gave us abundantly...to overflowing. He fills us first, so we overflow and give back to Him!

He is amazed by our faith,

He has bestowed glory on us,

He honors us (that blows my mind!)

It dawned on me, He requires nothing from us that he hasn't already freely given! The God of the Universe Honors us?! Wow!
My memory verse for Feb. 1, reminds me of this great revelation, and makes me want to seek much more of Him! He makes me smile!

Ps 84:11 (NIV) For the LORD God is a sun and sheild: the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.

On the 1st and the 15th of each month, I will post my scripture memory verse, Won't you join me in this wonderful journey of renewing our minds? Let me know by leaving your Scripture verse (typed out in full), Reference, your name and city in my thoughts section. You may memorize the verse I pick or one of your own.

Thank you Jesus for your wonderful WORD! Help us discover more of who you are, so we can become more like you!

His Word, my prayer

2010-01-29T23:45:00.002-06:00

Isa. 55: 10-11

As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater...

So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.

Father, let your word fall fresh on me, like todays newly fallen snow or the gentle spring rains. I hunger and thirst for much more...

to Flourish in your love, your grace, your mercy.

Lord as I speak your word over my friends and family in prayer, may your word yeild seed for me to sow, and bread for those I lift to you!

Jer. 23:29

"Is not my Word like fire", declares the LORD, "And like a hammer that breaks a rock into pieces?"

LORD... hear your Word that I speak. Let it come forth with Holy Spirit Fire, not with words of human wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of it's power.

And with Your power...

Break those rocks into pieces!!

Make your mighty power known

Thankful Thursday 1-28-10

2010-01-28T05:51:00.000-06:00

Welcome to Thankful Thursday. This is a place where women come together giving thanks and glorify the Lord together. Join our host Lynn and all the others as they share their unexpected joys the Lord has blessed them with.

I have been pleasantly surprised how the Lord has orchestrated peace for me the last three days at work. Thank you Jesus!
I was blessed with finding and purchasing a new Dyson rollerball vacuum on line, and saved $70 plus free shipping!! Thank you Jesus!
I was elated when I checked my son's grades this week on line, that he has a 94 in pre-ap english! Thank you Jesus!
I am Praising Jesus for "turning on the lightbulbs" as my daughter says, in my daughters' walk with Jesus. She's "On Fire" for the Lord, and this mom can't stop Praising the Lord! Thank you Jesus!
I am ever pleasantly surprised by all the wonderful "little things" my man does for me everyday! His kindness and love is never ending! Thank you Jesus!
I am blessed beyond measure, if I were to recall all the ways the Lord has thought of me there would be too many to count! Thank you Jesus! Ps. 139:17-18

Saturday Steps of Faith 1-23-10

2010-01-23T09:38:00.000-06:00

PS 29:11 The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace.

Strength for the journey

Strength to endure

Strength to take one more step

Strength to make a difference

Strength to hold onto your hand -until your imprint is upon my life

Let Peace

tranquility

calm, quietness

pour over me

Because I am secure in your Love.

I will

Ps. 105:4 Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always.

What is your hearts cry?

Thankful Thursday 1-21-10

2010-01-21T05:48:00.000-06:00

List 5 things you're thankful for today. Join in with Sonya giving Praise to our Jesus, How Great is our God!!

I glory in the Lord this morning for my WONDERFUL family.
I glory in the Lord this morning for the many things He is teaching us.
I glory in the Lord this morning for so many of my blogging friends who are on their way to celebrate their victory for memorizing scripture with Beth Moore. Lord, may your hand be upon their travels, may your hand be upon their celebration, and may your hand imprint their lives forever more!
I glory in the Lord for my job.
I glory in the Lord for my friends who study His word with me at my job.

Come and glory in the Lord with me!

Saturday Steps of Faith 1-16-10

2010-01-16T10:15:00.001-06:00

What are YOU believing God to work in your life? Today step out in faith, claim His word, and look for Him in amazement as He reveals He's working on your behalf! Lisa started this last year, and it grew me so much, I had to continue. Click on the picture it will take you to her blog, My Passionate Pursuit.

Haggai 2:9 "The glory of this present house will be greater than he glory of the former house," says the LORD Almighty, "And in this place I will grant peace", declares the LORD Almighty.

Lord, fill us with your glory, fill us with your peace! Do it in me, in my house, and in my church! Be the lifter of my head. Help me to be strong and do the work. You are with me, and for me, and you are my strength!
I thank you that your word is Alive and Active in me. Guide me, and lead me, teach me, show me. Thank you for being the song in my heart, and a sheild around me.
Your kingdom come, your will be done...on earth as it is in heaven.
Do it Lord!

Scripture Memory 1-15-2010

2010-01-15T06:07:00.000-06:00

Welcome back to our scripture memory challenge! The last 15 days have flown by. Things have returned to normal, or our new normal. "The pace of the race" can be overwhelming at times, and that is when I must cling to my scripture, stand on His word and rest in knowing He's got it under control. It brings me peace.

Ps. 3:3 But you are a shield around me O LORD, you bestow glory on me and lift up my head.

On the 1st and the 15th of each month, I will post my scripture memory verse, and if you would like to join in, please do at any time!! Let me know by leaving your Scripture verse (typed out in full), Reference, your name and city in my thoughts section. You may memorize the verse I pick or one of your own.
Cling to His Word ladies...It's a wild ride!

Thankful Thursday 1-14-10

2010-01-14T06:26:00.000-06:00

List 5 things you're thankful for today. Join in with Sonya giving Praise to our Jesus, How Great is our God!!

Today, I'd like to list the things I am so thankful for out of Ps 91:14-16

14."Because he loves me,"says the LORD, " I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.

15. He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him.

16. With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation.

I am thankful for Our Great God !

1. He RESCUES us

2. He PROTECTS us

3. He ANSWERS us when we call

4. He's WITH US in trouble

5. He DELIVERS us

6. He HONORS us

7. He SATISFIES us with long life

8. He SHOWS us

9. His SALVATION.

WOW! Thank you Jesus! He "SAVES" us from death and it's already "PAID in FULL"!!

Saturday Steps of Faith 1-9-10

2010-01-09T11:21:00.002-06:00

Deliver us from fear

Deliver us from unforgiveness

Deliver us from anger and bitterness

Deliver us from evil

Deliver us from sin, pride

Deliver us from UNBELIEF

Shake these things to the surface, that we may see the hidden things in our hearts. Remove the froth. Free us that we may be free. Remind us to seek your face. Be with us always, so we may grab hold of your right hand ...gripping life!

You are our strong tower, our refuge...

Luke 1:37 For nothing is impossible with God.

Forgiveness

2010-01-08T06:10:00.000-06:00

Grace and Forgiveness...do you extend it to others?
This is an amazing 2 part video. Luggage

Lord, open the minds and hearts of everyone who watches this video, and shine your light in the dark places. Reveal our hidden secrets, show us how to forgive, and to be able to wish them well. Help us to be FREE.
In Jesus name. AMEN

Thankful Thursday 1-07-10

2010-01-07T06:00:00.001-06:00

Happy Thursday! Today, won't you join Sonya at Truth 4 the journey and list the 5 things you are thankful for. Jesus is the author of All things good! Lets give Him the Praise!

1. I am smiling because the Lord is truly my joy, my strength. And He has awesome plans for us this year, 2010.
2. I am smiling because the temperature is not a single digit as they predicted, but 15, a double digit. Thank you Jesus!
3. I am smiling because my eyes are wide open expecting to see the Lord's hand at work this year, and I already have! He's the increaser of my belief.
4. I am smiling because today is the 1st day of our Bible study at work. I am excited, and anticipating an incredible working of the Holy Spirit in and through everyone of us there. We are studying Grace and Forgiveness. Reading a book written by John & Carol Arnott together, out loud, and at the pace we will all be on the same page. Lord shine your light on every area we need to hand over to you for good.
5. I am smiling because I see the Holy Awesomeness of the Lord at work stirring the hearts of all the church people and pastors. He has promised to be with us, told us not to fear, be strong and do the work. He will fill our temple with His glory and His peace. He is!

Scripture Memory 2010

2010-01-01T18:59:00.000-06:00

Last year I joined Beth Moore's Memory verse challenge. It was one of the best things I've ever done for myself. 2 scripture memory verses per month (1st and 15th.) I was so excited when I actually did it and stuck to it. It is so good to put His word into action. His Word is Alive and active, and I want to see it alive and active in my life. There were days I clung to the verses, and stood firm on them. They were there and ready when I needed a verse for a friend. They helped me grow in my trust and belief !

This year, I want to do it again beginning today. On the 1st and the 15th of each month, I will post my scripture memory verse, and if you would like to join in, please do at any time!! Let me know by leaving your Scripture verse (typed out in full), Reference, your name & city in my thoughts section. You may memorize the verse I pick or one of your own. I pray for the Lord to lead me to the verse I will need to cling to. He knows everything I will be facing, and it's been an awesome journey. I want to do it again in 2010!

Ps. 27:8 (NIV) My heart says of you "seek his face!" Your face, LORD, I will seek.

It's what I want this year!
May this New Year bring us a deeper walk with Jesus.

Jesus...Do it again in 2010

2009-12-31T09:50:00.000-06:00

Isa. 55:6 Seek the Lord while he may be found, call on him while he is near.

As the year of 2009 comes to an end, and I look back over the year and see All the Lord worked in and through me...
I sit amazed
I sit truly and utterly AMAZED!
I am Humbled.
So Thankful...grateful...
Praising...His Wonderous Name!

My Belief has sky rocketed....I choose to believe.
I have heard Him speak with a loud and Thunderous voice, shouting the answer to my very specific prayer. Both for myself and for others. He Spoke audibly to me, my daughters, my sister and sister in laws....it was witnessed! And Confirmed! May we never deny the POWER IN HIS NAME!

He has spoken in a Whisper
Words I needed to hear...encouraging me to take another step.

He is Changing me...
Calling me...
Singing and Smiling over me...
Stretching & testing me.

May we call on His Mighty Name, and seek Him while he can be found...With our eyes WIDE open...
Do it Lord!! Do it again in 2010!
Do it New, and fresh every day!
A new revelation of you! see Beth's post here
God Seekers...Lord may it be!
May Your will be the desire of our hearts.

Evidence of Christmas 2009

2009-12-26T17:21:00.001-06:00

Click picture to enlarge, back button to return

Christmas poem 2009..blessings to your house... from mine

2009-12-26T12:06:00.000-06:00

Christmas 2009

12/23: The tree was trimmed. The Christmas village was all aglow. The train was running on its track, around the village it would go. The presents all wrapped, the cupboards were packed. The house was clean and shiny and the laundry was done. Nana was tired, but looking forward to the fun.

12/24: The kids and grand boys arrived a bit early, the weather they said would turn to snow and become whirly! The temperature plummeted from 50 to 9, a white Christmas indeed…it’s been along time. Long to be remembered the Blizzard of ’09.

The baby is down for a nap in the crib, we have one more thing to buy they said. As the door shut behind them out of the crib he did climb, not a problem…thought this little head of mine. Just me and my grand boys how sweet this will be. 30 minutes of kisses and smiles and glee.

Then what to my wondering eyes should appear, two little toddlers running wildly having no fear! To the tree one would dash pulling down ornaments in a flash. While the other snuck quietly out of sight…what was that crash? Honey don’t touch, those are Nana’s pretties. Let’s play with the toys…Hey who’s screaming? No, no, put that back, the village is a wreck, the train crashed into the house by the track.

Two hours had passed, the time didn’t fly…this Nana was exhausted and could only sigh.
The house in upheaval, there was dinner make, the boys were hungry, and it was getting late. Thank God they are home, a little peace I will get…but what was I thinking…they have had no naps. The little one tired with sippy cup in hand, plopped down on Daddy’s lap, for a long winters nap. His little tooth hit hard with no little tap, the G- force was fierce and it broke off with a snap.

Don had to go, had to feed his pup…but in the driveway his car got stuck. He grabbed the snow shovel, and started to dig. Those drifts were deep, they were rather quite big! Over whelmed with compassion (or disgust I am not sure which), next thing I know I was pushing him out of the ditch. Covered in white from my head to my toe, I shook my fist in the air…and loudly exclaimed “I moved to Oklahoma to get away from this snow.”

Visions of sugarplums faded from my mind, and I saw a new sequel that we could slowly rewind…Santa meets Tooth fairy on this Christmas Eve; this Nana’s gone crazy…who would believe? Jesus I’m sorry I’ve turned into Scrooge…I’ll do better tomorrow, my sin please remove. “Thank you Jesus for the warm house” I said, as I crawled into bed, and passed out from exhaustion as though I were dead.

12/25: Morning came in a flash, the alarm it did ring…Thank you Jesus for electric and all of our things. I started my day with my focus on Him, fighting the urge not to slip right back into sin. The first sign of life and away it all went…by 9am I was totally spent. The Hallmark Christmas faded away, but the truth of the matter I will reveal today.

The girls were cooking breakfast, the guys shoveling snow…we weren’t arguing and fighting as in years that had past, we all pulled together and got it all done fast.
We hugged while softly whining, showing compassion and love. His Spirit descended on us like a dove. We held hands, said a prayer, asked Jesus to meet us there.

Though we still struggled with the image of the perfect Christmas day, we slowly accepted that just wasn’t happening today. The memories we made as we all worked together. They will last a life time and they will make us each better. We all want the mountain top sparkling with snow, but it’s down in the valley He meets us to help us all grow.

Only God can take our messes, and turn them around to bless us. One day we’ll recall the Blizzard of 09, but with sweet memories and laughter is how it will be next time!

Christmas Eve Thankful Thursday 12-24-09

2009-12-24T07:43:00.000-06:00

Christmas Eve Thankful Thursday! List 5 things you are thankful for and Link up with Sonya, Give Thanks to the Lord!
This past week has been a "wild ride". Wednesday 12/16 my youngest daughter Alicia and I spent the night in the ER. She was in excrutiating pain and unbeknown to us she was bleeding internally. She had an Intra abdominal pregancy, a very rare case. Here are the 5 ways Jesus let us know He was there with us.
1. The Angel in the emergency waiting room. There was a young woman in her early 20's with a young child, there when we arrived. I noticed as I was quietly praying for Alicia, this young lady was looking directly at her and intensely praying "In Jesus name be healed"..over and over...30 minutes later she and the little one got ready to leave,(they were never called back, never seen by a doctor or nurse, no one met them, they were just there) she bid us a good night and was almost to the door, when she turned around and said out loud "He wants you to know, it will all be OK!" WOW...WOW, WOW, WOW! Thank you Jesus for letting us know you were with us by sending an Angel.
2. So much accomplished in a mere 15 hours. She was seen, examined, admitted, emergency surgery completed, and in recovery in a mere 15hours. Amazing!
3. No damage to her reproductive organs. They originally diagnosed her with an infection, and an etopic pregnancy which usually leaves damage to some part of her reproductive system. When they got into surgery is when they discovered the internal bleeding and embryo implanted in the abdominal wall. The Lord provided skill beyond the surgeon's knowledge, as he told us he had never seen this before. Praise you Jesus!! Thank you for being the surgeon's hands.
4. 5 star nurse on the 2nd floor. The sweetest spirit, compassion overflowing, the 1st nurse in her room after surgery was beyond, beyond!!
5. Provision. Alicia has no insurance, but received a phone call from the accounting department. They filled out an application over the phone for her to cover her whole bill! Praise you Jesus for being our provider!!

I am so Thankful for Jesus showing himself mightly through the whole process. He was there, and moving on our behalf! I am thankful to see the way the whole family pulled together, and did what was necessary to keep things going while Desiree and I were by Alicia's side the whole time. She was released Friday evening and Martin' s work has allowed him to be by her side as she recovers! We are blessed beyond measure! Thank you Jesus for being my Rock!

May you all be blessed with the presence of Christ this Christmas!!

Christ's Bell - keep it ringing

2009-12-22T19:38:00.003-06:00

THE BELL
I KNOW WHO I AM

I am God's child (John 1:12)

I am Christ's friend (John 15:15 )

I am united with the Lord (1 Cor. 6:17)

I am bought with a price (1 Cor 6:19-20)

I am a saint (set apart for God). (Eph. 1:1)

I am a personal witness of Christ. (Acts 1:8)

I am the salt & light of the earth (Matt 5:13-14)

I am a member of the body of Christ (1 Cor 12:27)

I am free forever from condemnation ( Rom. 8: 1-2)

I am a citizen of Heaven. I am significant (Phil 3 :20)

I am free from any charge against me (Rom. 8:31 -34)

I am a minister of reconciliation for God (2 Cor 5:17-21)

I have access to God through the Holy Spirit (Eph. 2:18)

I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realms (Eph. 2:6)

I cannot be separated from the love of God (Rom 8:35-39)

I am established, anointed, sealed by God (2 Cor 1:21-22 )

I am assured all things work together for good (Rom. 8:28 )

I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit (John 15:16 )

I may approach God with freedom and confidence (Eph.3: 12)
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me(Phil. 4:13)

I am the branch of the true vine, a channel of His life(John 15:1-5)

I am God's temple (1Cor.3:16).I am complete in Christ (Col.2:10)

I am hidden with Christ in God (Col.3:3).I have been justified (Romans5:1)

I am God's co-worker (1Cor.3:9; 2Cor 6:1).I am God's workmanship(Eph. 2:10)

I am confident that the good works God has begun in me will be perfected.(Phil.1:5)

I have been redeemed and forgiven (Col 1:14).I have been adopted as God's child (Eph 1:5)

I belong to God

Do you know

Who you are?

Grace and Peace Mission to Orissa - Saturday Steps of Faith

2009-12-12T07:42:00.011-06:00

Nanda Orphange,

It still stands after a year of Christian persecution, villages burned to the ground,

thousands still homeless and living in refuge camps in tents.

It still Stands! And is full of children. Praise the Lord! Please pray.

To see more about our trip to India here 6/16/08 and why this Orphanage is on our hearts

I am believing God for 2 Cor. 9:10-11

Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness.

You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thansgiving to God.

Join in with Lisa believing God hears our prayers, and is ABLE!!

Its a place to publicly proclaim His awesome promises for our lives, where we believe God for things great or small!

Thankful Thursday 12-10-09

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List 5 things you are thankful for and join in with Sonya giving Thanks to our Great God for all he has blessed us with!

I'm thankful for the Hope of Christmas

I'm thankful for Christmas past

I'm thankful for Christmas present

I'm thankful for sharing in "deeper still" beyond, beyond moments with my girls

I'm thankful for 3 generations of "swinging" guys!

Ps. 9 1-2

I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders.

I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.

Saturday Steps of Faith 12-5-09

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What are you believing God for?

Join Lisa and proclaim it from the roof tops! And we will stand believing with you!

Jer. 29 12-14a

12. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you

13. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all you heart.

14a.I will be found by you declares the Lord and will bring you back from captivity

Do it Lord! Do it in my my daughter as you draw her gently and passionately, running into your arms! Do it Lord!

Eph. 3:20-21

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen

Thankful Thursday 12-3-09

2009-12-03T05:20:00.001-06:00

List 5 things you are thankful for and join in with Sonya giving Thanks to our Great God for all he has blessed us with!

I am thankful for the craft show I attended and how the Lord helped me walk through with focus and with a wonderful friend! Sunday after church I made another run through to pick up a few things I saw and didn't get on Saturday (all by myself!). He is my sheild and my fortress! He is my confidence. And thank you my blogging friends for praying me through!
I am thankful for the wonderful long Thanksgiving weekend to spend time with my family. Playing with the grandchildren on the "new" playground Poppa Don finished for them the weekend I went to the craft show! They were so excited! And as a bonus, the Lord disguised the seesaw as playtime, but the effects WAY out did any thigh master available on the market!! He knows how to get this Nana moving!!
I am thankful the Lord hears our prayers! Black Friday prayers. Before we left the house at 5am...(I know we were late...I changed the radio alarm, but turned on the buzzer) We said a prayer together before we left, and you know what He did right there in Toys R Us ...there were no more Dora backpacks...and Alicia sooooo wanted one for Joey...but found a few other items, and as Desi was checking out, Alicia saw a box behind the register and showed me, I asked the gentleman if he could check and sure enough...it was the backpack!! Oh yeah, the Lord delights in delighting His children!! And if that weren't enough..He did it for me at Walmart with a T-Rex set I wanted for Justin!! After I checked out, Alicia asked if I wanted to run back and see if they restocked..I did, they didn't, but there was ONE sitting ontop of something else!! What an Awesome God we serve!!
I am thankful the Lord is at work in our workplace, and opening up opportunities to speak to my bosses about the power of prayer. And letting them know I am praying for them.
I am thankful to see answered prayers and giving God the Glory! My girlfriends husband with cancer got a clean PET scan, and only one more chemo treatment left! Hallelujah! I also heard wonderful news about the orphanage in India my son Alex and I stayed at last June. The building and the children all survived the Hindu attacks on the Christians that began the day we left for the airport! The village we visited and many surrounding villages were burned to the ground, and over 10000 are still in refugee camps. Many were tortured and burned alive. I give Praise to the Lord for protecting the children and their home!!

Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart!! Thank you Jesus!

Saturday Steps of Faith 11-21-09

2009-11-21T07:00:00.001-06:00

What are you believing God for?

Do you trust God enough to take Him at His word? Not only for your neighbor or friend..., but for you?
Join in with Lisa at My Passionate Pursuit, link up and let us know what you are believing, so we can believe with you!
Ps. 34: 4&5 I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.

The Lord is working on me to work out my fears, my anxiousness, and to just stand on His word, His promises, and watch and see what He'll do in and through me. To be still and know that He is God. I need to relax and just enjoy the each moment, to pass through the gate. (Isa. 62:10)
Today, I will be going to An Affair of the Heart craft show. This show is the largest craft show in Tulsa, and I have looked forward to it for a couple of weeks. Here is my fear, silly as it sounds, I become overwhelmed. Not so much with the people, but with the stuff...the "eye candy". My sense of focus, direction and purpose become lost in the hoards of stuff. It has been so overwhelming sometimes, I just have to leave. The moments lost, the joy lost, the day lost.
I am tired of being overwhelmed, and tired of missing the joy, tired of losing my focus, tired of succumming to defeat! Today is the beginning of a fearless me! With the Lord hemming me in, and the angel of the Lord encamped around me, who am I to fear! I will Rise, by His strength, I will Rise!
Today, I will go expecting to meet Him there! To see God and let Him overwhelm me! I will rest in His peace, because I trust in His unfailing love! I fully expect my face to be radiant!

Jer. 32:17 Ah, Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you!
Phil 4:7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus!