It takes a HABIT to BREAK a HABIT !

As I read this short sentence, I realized how much truth was packed into those words.  I know it’s TRUTH because I’ve experienced it!  We often struggle with making changes in our life. 

If we do not fill the void left from eliminating a particular habit or routine from our life we revert back to the “old habit” or routine.  It’s too easy to fall back into the familiar even if we know it’s not beneficial to our growth.

It’s the same in our spiritual  lives…we cannot let the spaces in our heart and mind be filled with the “old”.  So, we endeavor to fill it with the New Way of life.  Some have a difficult battle with leaving the old behind and forging ahead with the New!  We don’t want to leave the familiar behind even if it’s bad for us!  Oftentimes, we take comfort in the familiar…it’s easy, we know what to expect from the old familiar habits and routines. 

Once we’ve fallen back into our old ways we often become disappointed in ourselves and may even feel worthless, helpless, and hopeless or despondent.

That’s a TRICK of the adversary!  Don’t let him fool you into believing his lies that you are incapable of changing!  God’s WORD tells us otherwise.  It also tells us that it can be a struggle to endure, maintain, and STAND FIRM!  WE CAN DO IT!

My heart breaks when I see believers falling back into the adversaries lap.  I’ve seen lives become so ensnared and tangled that one sometimes wonders if they will make it back.  I know, that I know…God is merciful, full of grace, and compassion.  He does understand and He wants to give you hope, worth, and purpose. 

God will not leave you…you leave God!  He waits with open arms and eyes filled with desire to see you run into His forgiving arms of love.  He came to earth…gave his only son, for who?  YOU! and me!

Don’t GIVE UP!  Give GOD the adoration, praise, and glory of your heart, mind, and soul!  He will give you all the strength you will need to fight the warfare of this world.  Preparation is the key!  

Put on the armor…prepare for the battle,

Pam

(I’m not sure why I have blogged this…but it was in my heart to write.)

Amazing, looking out the bedroom window I view the landscape that has changed so drastically in just two to three weeks. From the filtering greens to the bright oranges, reds, and russets to this! Wow!

It came so swiftly the dull barren look. While there are a few lingering leaves waiting for the wind that will rip them from the branch, they hold tightly waiting for that final moment before their swirling decent to the ground below.

The brilliant hues of Autumn have succumbed to the grays of Winter. As my eyes examined the landscape of my own grounds, I noticed the damage the storms did this year to our trees of which we have many. There were broken branches everywhere (the March tornado came less than a quarter of a mile from us) and a couple of our huge trees are down. Thankfully, they were further down the hill and not close to the house!

As my mind wandered in thought, it became evident to me that the season in our own lives are very important. I know we often think of the Seasons of our Life as related to the progression of age, but my mind didn’t go in that direction.

Instead, I was reeling with the aspect of Winter’s bareness as a time of introspectiveness and also a time to really see what we look like and where we’ve been the past few months.

Viewing the damages on the trees, I could now see where broken branches had left huge jagged edges and often had struck other trees on the way to their destination. I saw huge scars on some trees and some with their tops totally twisted off starkly silhouetted against the crisp blue sky.

I began thinking of how our lives are similar to the seasons. We have the Springtime when with great joy we watch the planted seeds grow and then  eventually we grow the pretty leaves that cover all our blemishes, scars, and even our brokenness. We sway to the Spring breeze and flaunt our beautiful colors, knowing no one can see inside because we are covered by the green leaves and flowering blooms.

But then the winds bring change… another Season begins.

The colors begin to diminish in brightness and the leaves gently detach readying for the wind of change that will expose the branches and the underlying truth of what we really look like and who we really are beneath the covering!

As I viewed our damaged trees, I realized there are some that really needed to be cut down as the damage was so great that eventually the possibility that it could fall and cause harm to the surrounding trees.

In the human perspective, when we observe the damage, the bruises, the scars, the broken branches,that the storms have swept through our lives, we don’t have to be cut down. We can trim the jagged edges of the broken branches. We can topthe tree to eliminate the mangled twisted mess.

We do this by examining our inward self! It’s so hard to look inward.  It takes real courage and desire.  Winter is the time to take a good long inward look without all the covering and flowery blossoms covering our imperfections. It’s only when we go to our Prayer Closet that we can re-dress ourselves for the Winter ahead. Only when we truly do an honest inward examination of our heart, mind, and soul will we obtain the strength to stand still, straight and tall, and see the salvation of the LORD.He is the only one that can mend the storms damages and see us through the Winters of our lives.

He patiently waits for us. He is willing. He desires for us to overcome. He has offered us strength to overcome and endure to the end.

Are we so busy, so preoccupied that we don’t have the time to examine ourselves? Time alone with God is necessary!

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.  Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.  Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.    (Psalm 51:10-12)

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.  See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.  (Psalm 139:23-24)

I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. (John 15:5)

I desire to remain intact with the vine to endure the Winter and gain strength for the coming Spring planting…”and then comes the Harvest.”  I must prepare.

”A calamity that makes you turn to God is better for you than a blessing which takes you away from God.”(from a friends FB)

Blessings of the season,

Pam

The last few mornings I have been awakened with a song(s)…this is not a regular occurrence for me. 

This morning it was with the following and the particular phrases of the song that woke me up are in bold print.  I’ve not heard this song sung in many months.

Draw Me Nearer  (Frances J Crosby – 1875)

1.  I am Thine, O Lord, I have heard Thy voice,
    And it told Thy love to me;
    But I long to rise in the arms of faith
    And be closer drawn to Thee.

• Refrain:
  Draw me nearer, nearer blessed Lord,
  To the cross where Thou hast died;
  Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer blessed Lord,
  To Thy precious, bleeding side.

2.  Consecrate me now to Thy service, Lord,
     By the pow’r of grace divine;
     Let my soul look up with a steadfast hope,
     And my will be lost in Thine.

3.  Oh, the pure delight of a single hour
     That before Thy throne I spend,
     When I kneel in prayer, and with Thee, my God
     I commune as friend with friend!

4.  There are depths of love that I cannot know
     Till I cross the narrow sea;
     There are heights of joy that I may not reach
     Till I rest in peace with Thee.

I totally understand the call to prayer and I’m so thankful God still keeps me sensitive and alert to heed this call.  I know there are many times I’ve missed it (and knew it later)!  Did He tell me what to pray for…Not always, but whether it’s for myself or someone else, it doesn’t matter…it’s the communication with Him that is important.

Out of curiosity I googled Frances J. Crosby and here is a list of songs written by her.   Note the word in bold lettering after each song.  Clicking on each song title will take you directly to the lyrics. 

***(You can go to this website for the lyrics: http://library.timelesstruths.org/music/_/Crosby_Frances_J/?sortby=author )

 I have been overwhelmed with His presence this morning.  My heart is full of His love, mercy and longsuffering toward us and our world.  Time marches on and soon will be no more!

In His Presence there’s fullness of JOY,

Pam

The last few mornings I have been awakened with a song(s)…this is not a regular occurrence for me. 

This morning it was with the following and the particular phrases of the song that woke me up are in bold print.  I’ve not heard this song sung in many months.

Draw Me Nearer  (Frances J Crosby – 1875)

1.  I am Thine, O Lord, I have heard Thy voice,
    And it told Thy love to me;
    But I long to rise in the arms of faith
    And be closer drawn to Thee.

• Refrain:
  Draw me nearer, nearer blessed Lord,
  To the cross where Thou hast died;
  Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer blessed Lord,
  To Thy precious, bleeding side.

2.  Consecrate me now to Thy service, Lord,
     By the pow’r of grace divine;
     Let my soul look up with a steadfast hope,
     And my will be lost in Thine.

3.  Oh, the pure delight of a single hour
     That before Thy throne I spend,
     When I kneel in prayer, and with Thee, my God
     I commune as friend with friend!

4.  There are depths of love that I cannot know
     Till I cross the narrow sea;
     There are heights of joy that I may not reach
     Till I rest in peace with Thee.

I totally understand the call to prayer and I’m so thankful God still keeps me sensitive and alert to heed this call.  I know there are many times I’ve missed it (and knew it later)!  Did He tell me what to pray for…Not always, but whether it’s for myself or someone else, it doesn’t matter…it’s the communication with Him that is important.

Out of curiosity I googled Frances J. Crosby and here is a list of songs written by her.   Note the word in bold lettering after each song.  Clicking on each song title will take you directly to the lyrics. 

***(You can go to this website for the lyrics: http://library.timelesstruths.org/music/_/Crosby_Frances_J/?sortby=author )

 I have been overwhelmed with His presence this morning.  My heart is full of His love, mercy and longsuffering toward us and our world.  Time marches on and soon will be no more!

In His Presence there’s fullness of JOY,

Pam

On my way home from work today, I noticed in one area the Crepe Myrtles had been pruned so harshly that one would not believe in a Spring/Summer resurrection! They looked like they were dead and had been pruned to just a couple feet from the base and there were NO leaves to be seen anywhere on their naked limbs.

It made me ponder about the pruning God does in our lives. Sometimes we feel that the pruning is harsh and to the quick! Leaving nothing for display… we are pruned back to the basic trunk with only a few bare limbs reaching out for His Mercy!

Perhaps, He does this because we need to realize that we are still just sinners saved by His grace and mercy! I also know that growth cannot be promoted without the pruning. Some of the prettiest Crepe Myrtles that I see mid-summer are those that were pruned the harshest. They also seem to grow taller than those not pruned at all.

The Crepe Myrtles that aren’t pruned spread out without any sense of direction. They are just spreading bushes without any height.

We can be pruned by criticism from others (if we don’t get bitter). We can be pruned when we think the Pastor is preaching directly to us (if we’re thinking that, then it probably is for us). We can be pruned by reading His Word (and applying it to our own life and not everyone else’s). We can be pruned by circumstances and situations that occur in our lives.

The GROWTH comes with how we handle the pruning! If we grumble, whimper, whine or back-off from His presence…then our growth is stunted. But if we let our weeping limbs reach out  and embrace the pruning…then watch out… you’re getting ready to experience a GROWTH spurt!

Pruning is painful, but if it’s done by the Master Gardener, then be patient and see the beauty that will spring forth in due season!

  “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. ² He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. ³ You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you.”     John 15:1-3

            Note: The Greek for he prunes also means he cleans.

Blessings through the pruning,

Pam

Too much trouble…

Too much trouble to share my testimony and tell my neighbor, friend, or loved one of how good God is and has been to me.

Too much trouble to get myself and my children ready for Sunday School and church (It’s so much easier to let them keep on playing outside, until they become teenagers and want to stay away from home and church).

Too much trouble to take time to care for or just listen to a hurting loved one, friend, co-worker, or customer.

Too much trouble to clean the church, or mow the church yard, or weed the flower bed and trim the hedges & shrubs (Isn’t that in the Pastor’s job description?).

Too much trouble to support the ministry with prayer and finances (They can work just like me, and still have time to pray for me personally, study and prepare to teach and preach what my soul needs to be saved).

Too much trouble to teach a Sunday School class of rowdy teens, or rambunctious little ones about how much Jesus loves them (I don’t have time for the consistency, patience or study required).

Too much trouble to participate in praise and worship during the church service (God knows all things, right? So, he knows how much I love him!).

Too much trouble to bring my Bible to church with me (it’s cumbersome, and just something else for me to carry, I’ve got a heavy load as it is).

Too much trouble to have a quiet time and read The WORD (I just don’t have time to be consistently, daily reading the Bible, I have other pressing priorities).

Too much trouble to attend prayer meetings (I was always late or forgot anyway, so why bother at all, I pray at home!).

Too much trouble to give financially (Tithe and offering…in this economy who can afford to give both, besides I give offerings to the church because my pastor doesn’t need financial support).

Too much trouble to…

To take the time to reflect on the future…I’m too busy living in the present.

So, on THAT DAY (whenever it is for me or you) don’t be surprised when the LORD says…

It’s TOO MUCH TROUBLE TO OPEN THE GATE, BESIDES… DO I KNOW YOU?

At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, “Come, for everything is now ready.” But they all alike began to make excuses.

Luke 14:17-18

It was just too much trouble…

(I was awakened at 4:30 am with the above phrase repeating over and over in my head. I had to get up and write. I pray you do not think it harsh. Blunt, yes, but not harsh. I write this in love and concern for our souls. I want to hear Him say…”Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”)

A New Beginning, another opportunity to make the known necessary changes in my life. Could this be my last chance? We are not privilege to that information. God alone holds our life in His hands.

My responsibility is to change the things in my life that need changing. He won’t do that for me…there has to be ACTION on my part. He wants to see my intentions become more than mere words or thoughts. Active consistency…a determined effort and desire to make those life changes, he will honor. He desires our response to Biblical commands of living, not end of year resolutions written down (usually the same ones year after year), but a real response to His Word and our knowledge of what we know to do! Honestly now, we do know!

What’s the old quote: It takes 21-days to develop a habit…and so, conversely it takes 21-days to break one too!

The soon ending of a year of my life always puts me in a contemplative mood. My thoughts move through idealistic dreams and goals…to the pattern of real life and on to the attempt of combining the two into something feasible and realistic. We will never accomplish anything if we stay in the unreal world of idealism! Hiding our heads in the sand does not diminish or make the real world disappear!

REAL LIFE is an everyday challenge!

Ever feel like a Zombie? And no, I’ve never seen the movie, nor do I know much about the Zombie groupies/phase. But I have seen the photos of the lifeless Walking dead with the blank stare, just going through the perfunctory motions of life. How boring…to be emotionless and without feeling, numb to life!

Have you ever looked deeply into someone’s eyes and saw NO LIFE there, blank eyes, no sparkle, no interest in their surroundings… robotic body movements? Speaking in general phrases…no depth of thoughts or emotion…just there…body is there…but mind/spirit is disengaged!

What causes this to happen? Tragedy, complicated life situations, loss of HOPE, loss of trust, unfulfilled desires…?

I think loss of HOPE and TRUST are the biggest issues causing zombie living. Next, is the inability to follow through with intentional living. Consistency of intentional living…it’s so easy to fall back into old habits…consistency is the key…and when that is not accomplished then the hopelessness of never changing becomes a weighted albatross. The feeling that change can’t be accomplished becomes the norm and hope disappears into the black cloud of zombie-ism!

I recently read an article about Zombie Bees!

The parasitic fly lays eggs in a bee’s abdomen. Several days later, the parasitized bee bumbles out of the hives often at night on a solo mission to nowhere. These bees often fly toward light and wind up unable to control their own bodies. After a bee dies, as many as 13 fly larvae crawl out from the bee’s neck. The bees’ behavior seems similar to that of ants that are parasitized and then decapitated from within by other fly larvae from the Apocephalus genus.

“When we observed the bees for some time the ones that were alive we found that they walked in circles, often with no sense of direction,” Andrew Core, a graduate student who works with Hafernik and a co-author on the new paper, said in a prepared statement, describing them as behaving “something like a zombie.” (Read about other parasites that turn their hosts into zombies in the article “Zombie Creatures.”)

It made me think about the parasitic influences we are bombarded with daily and how they can become buried deep within causing us to lose our sense of direction …walking in circles, directionless, becoming Zombie-like instead of Christ-like!  Floundering off-track influenced by worldly parasites. The adversarial parasite uses us as a host, laying the larvae of joylessness, bitterness, prayerlessness, a what’s-the-use attitude, incubated in our very being until the larvae is ready to spew forth its sinful dialogue! Leaving us drained of life, debilitated, a Zombie, a shell of what we once were. The adversary knows exactly what he is doing!

I refrain from continuing the Zombie thought, (I have more notes on the subject) but I refrain because I KNOW  THE ONE who says WE CAN BE OVERCOMERS.  ALL HOPE is NOT lost!

This is not one of my typical NEW YEAR greetings… I truly am happy to be ALIVE and entering the year 2012!  I feel this is going to be a crucial year for The Church body…we need to be ready, not lacking in our prayer, fasting, absorbing the WORD (our nourishment), drinking in the LIVING WATER!  We need to be on guard, watchful and walking on the straight path.  Staying ALERT and keeping our directions in hand!

There will be OVERCOMERS…those who have endured!  Many Overcomer’s have left us this past year.  Those who led us in the path called straight!  Will we continue to follow?!  I plan to keep on keeping on…how about you!  I’m not promised my next breath…but I am promised a home in glory if I endure to the end.

LORD JESUS, Come Quickly!

Many Blessings in 2012,

Pam (Heartwhispers)

Once in the kitchen out of hearing distance of the constant whirr of the window a/c unit (our heat pump/ac unit isn’t working) I could hear the RAIN! Yes, the RAIN! Blessed Rain!

I realize for some it’s already caused terrible flooding and by the end of the day may cause flash flooding here…but for now, it’s just a steady rain. I actually went out back and stood in the acid sweet falling rain (don’t worry, the neighbors couldn’t see me and NO, I DID NOT Let Bud take a picture of me “singing in the rain”).

Can you feel the seasonal change in the air? I can!

I had BIG plans for today and they’ve all WASHED away! So, on to Plan B… Wait, did I make a Plan B? Let’s see…nope, don’t think I did!!

My new revised plan… catch up on my Summer Challenge Bible reading, laundry, wash my hair, and clean up the mess from Bud’s cooking (he fixed a delicious breakfast this morning) . He thinks he cleans up, but…his idea of clean is different than mine!?? No other explanation needed. I love him anyway.

We are Falling out of summer!

LABOR DAY is the

unofficial end of SUMMER!

Notebook Reflections

Oops…I am behind in my Summer Challenge Bible reading! With my recent surgery and some other tasks that had to be done… I fell behind! But I am catching up quickly and enjoying THE WORD and missing it when I don’t get to have my quiet time in the early morning hours! I’m almost back to my normal routine!

While reading this past week, a particular phrase caught my attention in both Matthew and Mark…

Matthew 24:4-9

Jesus told them, “Don’t let anyone mislead you, for many will come in my name, claiming ‘I am the Messiah.’ They will deceive many. And you will hear of wars and threats of wars, but don’t panic. Yes, these things must take place, but the end won’t follow immediately. Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in many parts of the world. But all this is only the first of the birth pangs, with more to come.” Then you will be arrested, persecuted, and killed. You will be hated all over the world because you are my followers. (emphasis is mine)

The phrase: “But all this is only the first of the birth pangs, with more to come”, is the phrase that captivated my attention.

Then in Mark 13:8(b) I read it again!

The Amplified Bible reads: “This is but the beginning of the intolerable anguish and suffering [only the first of the birth pangs].”

This phrase tumbled over and over in my mind… “only the first birth pangs” … “more to come”. In my notes I wrote… the beginning of sorrows.

What we are hearing, reading, and seeing are mild as to what is to come:

Then you will be arrested, persecuted, and killed. You will be hated all over the world because you are my followers.

We are looking at history in the making…and we are part of it!

Mark 13:33 … be on guard! Stay Alert! (and pray) Mark 13:36…don’t be found sleeping…WATCH for HIM!

Matthew 14:37 (b)

“Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

I believe we are truly in the throes of the “last days” with more to come. I am not predicting a date for His return, but I am saying that we need to stay alert and be on guard. The temptations of this world are creeping into places that were once sacred territory and becoming “acceptable” by ALL generations. I’ve written on “change” in previous posts, but I’m not talking about generational change.

How easily we drift away. Are we losing our way? Have we reset our moral compass to different coordinates? Have we rewritten the map to please others? I’m not trying to be a “negative spirit”. However, I am trying to keep myself on the right road…the less traveled narrow road… not the broad smooth easily traveled road. My road has rivers to wade, rocky hills to climb, and valleys to trudge through. I’m traveling this road with the one who calls me friend!

And through all the above, there is a place of peace and quiet solitude that gives me strength to continue on the way. I have always believed that this life is only a journey in a foreign land and one day I will cross the border into my eternal home…Yes, there is more to come! This feeling deep within my heart becomes even more pronounced as the years pass by. It’s the feeling one gets when anticipating an exciting trip in the near future.

Please, don’t misunderstand me…I am not a negative person…I enjoy my life here as much as this world allows me…within the boundaries I have set for myself. Do you “set boundaries” for yourself?

I’m increasingly amazed at how easy it is to “let up” or “let go” and how acceptable certain things have become. What was once “sin” is no longer considered sinful. Have we redefined sin? I’m not referring to personal convictions and I won’t even go there. Although I do, as you, have my personal opinions of the changes I see occurring.

Even when Peter tried to blend into the crowd and warm his hands at the edge of the fire (Jesus’ Trial & Crucifixion)…he couldn’t hide. He was recognized as being “one of them”. We may pretend that we don’t know Him, but the world knows who we are! And once you’ve been associated with “Him”… you will never be accepted in the same way by the world again.

Believe me, if we are filled with the Spirit and living a Holy life…we will be recognized. We will not find peace in going back to the “old way” of life. It will always be there to remind us! We will carry that mark in our hearts forever! It will either be our resurrection or our doom!

My desire is to be “recognizable” as having been with Jesus! I want to be “one of them”… and be found with oil in my lamp along with extra oil in reserve…not just skimping by and hoping I have enough when the time comes. Are you recognizable?

Be Watchful,

Be On Guard,

Be Alert,

Pray,

and

Not Found Sleeping,

WATCH FOR HIM!

These are words of warning to us. We must heed these warnings!

In Him we have peace in whatever circumstance we find ourselves in. They can kill the body but not the soul.

I want to be found faithful to the end,

I love Saturday mornings rain or shine!  But I do like the sun filtering in through my shaded windows.  It’s so pleasant to be “home” and not “have to be” somewhere else.  Time to enjoy my home and my reading corner in my study/office without time constraints!  Perfect!  I’m surprised the doggies are not napping in my chair!  I usually have to shoo them out of it before I can sit down.  It’s a favorite of theirs too! 

The chair in the photo is one my Dad gave me and it is just the right size for me and my room.  Not too big and not too little, but just right.  I have intentions of reupholstering it in a fabric.

Yes, I have double stacked books on all my bookshelves!  And YES, I know that is not good for the shelves.  I don’t have enough space for all of my books.  I plan to remedy that in time by getting rid of my large desk and putting in more shelves.  I have a compact corner desk & hutch unit in ebony/espresso that is still (after two years) in the box in the garage waiting for assembly!  I’ll probably put all my medical books in the guest/library room downstairs (when that’s sorted through).  We have BIG plans…now just to get them completed or even started! slow but steady…that’s our motto!

Saturday is also a “catch-up” day for me.  Things I’ve not had time to do during the week become Saturday’s To Do List.  I try not to do any shopping or errands on Saturdays.  It’s a day I devote to just “living” at home!  There are often things scheduled on Saturdays but they do not usually take up the entire day. 

This Saturday I am attempting to catch up on bill paying, laundry, and getting ready for my scheduled surgery this coming Tuesday the 16th.   Yes, another one!  I’m just a wee bit nervous about this one as it could be more extensive than the other’s have been.  I trust God and know that He knows what is best for me.  I am tired of surgeries…but I’ll take them over the alternative.  I am not a fan of “being put under”… I do not like not knowing what is going on around me or what they are doing to me.   

It’s almost time to start gathering wood for our woodstove. Bud and John will be splitting wood within the next month.  We need to get our woodpile restocked! They downed some trees this past Spring and the wood should be ready to cut and split.  With our AC/Heat pump not working we will really depend on the wood heat in a couple months.  Thankful for the window A/C unit that is allowing me to sleep comfortably at night! 

Notebook Reflections

As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, I am truly enjoying the 2011 Summer Bible Reading Challenge.  I got just a little behind when the grandkids were here, but I’m on target now!  It seems that every time I pick up my Bible and start reading…something always “catches” my attention.  I am so aware that we are nearing His Second Coming that every WORD seems to stand out on the page!  I’ve never been so HUNGRY and THIRSTY for His Word as I’ve been the last few months.  I have always read, studied, and tried my best to live by The Word…but somehow during the last couple months it has become extremely precious to me! 

Perhaps when I observe those who’ve left the truth…it makes me so thankful that I still believe and have not become desensitized to The WORD.   Oh yes, there is so much that I still do not understand, but His Word is revealed and made plain to those who seek to understand with their whole heart, mind, and soul.  It takes the ALL of oneself presented to God to become enlightened by the anointing of His presence in our lives.

Teach me your ways, O LORD, that I may live according to your truth!  Grant me purity of heart, so that I may honor you.  With all my heart I will praise you, O LORD my God.  I will give glory to your name forever, for your love for me is very great.      (Psalm 86:11-13a)

I do not want to be like those in Psalm 78:35 – 37

Then they remembered that God was their Rock, that God Most High was their redeemer.  But all they gave him was lip service; they lied to him with their tongues.  Their hearts were not loyal to him.  They did not keep his covenant. (emphasis is mine)

Ecclesiastes reminds us of the brevity of life! and that possessions are of no value…we won’t be taking them with us when we leave this earthly vessel behind.  As birthdays pass me by I am more and more aware of what is truly important in life.  There is a peace that comes in knowing GOD is in control.  If I’ve given Him my ALL… I can rest in the HOPE of resurrection and His Coming back for those who have made themselves ready! 

Are we ready Church?  Are we truly ready? Are we calling Him to “come quickly”?  In an hour when you think not…

READY or NOT…Here I COME!

Combine the tea with my favorite cup… blissful! I purchase it at our local Natural Food store (GreenLife).  I have discovered if I want it quickly I can brew it in the coffeepot (Just make sure the pot is scrubbed clean from prior use!) otherwise, the taste can be strangely unpleasant! 

So, while reading and catching up with the SUMMER CHALLENGE… reading the BIBLE in 90-days… I am drinking my Green Yerba Mate’ Tea and enjoying the morning!  I woke up very early this morning and while I had intended to sleep-in… my body was “through” with sleeping!  I gave in!  

Bud has gone to the garden to see if we can gather any remaining produce… we didn’t harvest much this year…too hot and too dry!  What we did get was delicious though!  We are now waiting to catch the figs as they ripen before the wild critters do.  We would like to make some fig jam or preserves this year.  The fig tree is acting kind of strange too  …so we may not get much from it either.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 Notebook Reflections

I wasn’t able to read as much as I wanted to today (yet).  But I did read 12 chapters this morning and plan to read more later this evening.

In last weeks readings…I penned these thoughts from Job:

After God gave his ok for Job to be tested, I noted the different Messengers that came to Job in succession. 

First Messenger: your oxen were plowing with the donkeys feeding beside them, when the Sabeans raided us.  They stole all the animals and killed all the farmhands.  I am the only one who escaped to tell you.  And while he was yet speaking…

Second Messenger: The fire of God has fallen from heaven and burned up your sheep and all the shepherds.  I am the only one who escaped to tell you.  While he was still speaking…

Third Messenger: Three bands of Chaldean raiders have stolen your camels and killed your servants.  I am the only one who escaped to tell you.  While he was still speaking…

Fourth Messenger:  Your sons and daughters were feasting in their oldest brother’s home.  Suddenly, a powerful wind swept in from the wilderness and hit the house on all sides.  The house collapsed, and all your children are dead.  I am the only one who escaped to tell you.

Job STOOD UP and tore his robe in grief!  Then he shaved his head and fell to the ground to WORSHIP.

He said:

I came naked from my mother’s womb, and I will be naked when I leave.

The LORD gave me what I had, and the LORD has taken it way.

PRAISE THE NAME OF THE LORD!

In all this, Job did not sin by blaming God.

Can you imagine what Job was thinking? … “What have I done to deserve this?”… “Why was I born?”… “I wish I had died at birth!”… 

If all that happened one after the other to you, could you STAND UP and then WORSHIP GOD??? 

I simply cannot fathom the depths of his grief…he lost everything, children, houses, livestock, servants, and then to top it off he was covered in boils from head to foot.  Have you ever had ONE boil? Painful malady!!  but from head to toe! So not only was he in mental, emotional anguish, but he also was physically in pain…  and he had these wonderful friends who accused him of hidden sin… (slander is unpleasant).

And we want to give up when_______________?!  I’ve never had anything like the testing of Job… Yes, I’ve gone through some very trying times of trials and testing… emotional and physical and will go through more I’m sure, especially as THE DAY approaches of His Second Coming… but in perspective of Job’s losses mine do not compare!

In Job 9:33-35 he speaks of I wish…

If only there were a mediator between us, someone who could bring us together.  The mediator could make God stop beating me, and I would no longer live in terror of his punishment.  Then I could speak to him without fear, but I cannot do that in my own strength.

I am so very thankful for our mediator, Jesus Christ and while I reverence Him, I am not fearful for I am a recipient of His compassion and love.  I can have direct contact with Him and talk to Him anytime I desire.

Grace, Mercy, Love is a wonderful gift given to us through His sacrifice!

GOD TRUSTED JOB…can He Trust us?

Blessings…take time to talk to Him … He loves to see our adoration expressed in Praise and Worship.

Whew…hOt, HaZy, LAzY Days of SUMMER!    Too hot and humid today to be outside, well…especially for us “older” folk!

So, I’ve been INSIDE enjoying my chair and new reading lamp (the better to see with) and catching up on the SUMMER CHALLENGE Bible Reading. 

I’ve become immersed in the History of the Israelites, their Judges, Kings, and all their UPS and Downs!  I find myself thinking about what I’ve read even during the day (and at work)…in quite a different way than I ever have before.  I’ve even researched History timelines, etc. I’ve found some excellent ones online that are easy to read and understand. 

I’ve been jotting notes as I read and will probably pursue them further in my blog at a later date.  Right now I am just absorbing the WORD and relating what I’m reading to Today’s World and MY WORLD!  When comparing the attitudes of the people of that day and what is transpiring currently…my conclusion is: The human race hasn’t changed much through the years. We think we have progressed beyond some of the historical barbaric ways, attitudes, jealousies, deceitfulness, troublemakers,… but have we?  Human nature is still the same!

Just like the Israelites did…we want the best of both worlds… even though our “heart” knows what the end result will be! 

In reviewing some of my jottings…I noted where Elijah had placed the mantel on Elisha’s shoulders… Elisha ran after him and requested time to go home first to kiss his mother and father good bye. Elijah granted Elisha this opportunity.  Elisha then slaughtered his “Oxen” and roasted them on the fire using the wood from the plow…Giving the meat to the townspeople to eat! He did not anticipate returning to his old way of life.  He left nothing to come back to.  Those oxen were his wealth and livelihood.

In reading this, I realized that Elisha gave up his most precious possession…He gave his all…left all that he had and carried the responsibility that Elijah had placed on his shoulders! 

My heart was overwhelmed with the emotion and immediate acceptance of Elisha’s response to Elijah.  I had to stop and ponder within myself… would I be that responsive? Then as Elijah was getting ready to leave this world…Elijah asked Elisha, “Tell me what I can do for you before I am taken away?” and Elisha responded with  “Please let me inherit a double portion of your spirit and become your successor.” 

Just a brief “thought” from my notes and will probably write more later.

Have a peace-filled, restful, and blessed Sunday!

Beautiful Weekend!

Wow, what a weekend, so thankful for the FREEDOM to enjoy it! 

I enjoyed sleeping in until 7:30 this morning!  Not my normal time to arise!

 Coffee Time/Quiet time was so pleasant this morning, no rushing around… my thoughts free to roam without time restraints.

Old memories resurfaced of life when it was calmer, and living was or seemed to be simpler.  Remembering days of sitting on the porch or in the yard under a big tree sipping tea from Ball jars. This was at my paternal grandparent’s home in Modesto, CA.  I moved away when I was four, but those memories are still there just as clear as if it were yesterday!  Grandpa sitting in his rocking chair outside smoking his pipe and grandma barefoot with her apron on and her gray braid hanging down her back.  I think I got the “barefoot” thing from her.   I only wear shoes when necessary!  I’m sure my cousins memories are quite different than mine as they lived around her their whole life… but I have mine too, just not as many!

As the above title states… my thoughts this morning have been very scattered.

As the years have passed, I have begun to realize this life is truly a journey… we know the date it started (our births physical and spiritual) but we do not know the date it will  “cease”.  This journey we’re on will end someday, and that’s in God’s hands.  He alone knows our future. 

There has been so much preaching and teaching on “CHOICE” and how choices we make in life determine what direction we choose and which road we travel!  We often don’t like to think that our choices are that important…but Oh friend, they are!  God loves us with compassion and mercy…He has offered us GRACE!  We have been chosen by Him… so why would we want to go back and live like we did before God’s Grace was bestowed upon us!  He loves us so much! Do we love Him in return?

My heart is broken for those who are trying to live on the edge… one foot in the world and one foot in the church.  Afraid to fully step out in either direction because they “know” the Truth!  It will never leave you, and will always be there to remind you of the “road” you should be traveling. 

Sometimes we are so afraid to totally give it all  to God.  We want to hang on to the control knob… in doing this we are showing God how much we mistrust Him.  A relationship depends on TRUST! God desires an intimate relationship with each one of us.  He wants us to trust in His Word…follow in His footsteps…He desires our respect, adoration, love, praise, worship, and our desire to be with Him whenever He comes back for us.

It’s similar to when a husband or wife leaves in the morning for work or a trip and while they are gone we correspond, or have long conversations by phone, (Skype, email, and all the other techie stuff)… our longing to see them grows as time passes by… but we look forward to the day when He or she comes home and we can run into their arms and get the hug and closeness that only comes from truly loving each other.  I don’t know about you, but I race to open the door before He does!  I am so excited that he’s home and I want him to know that I am thrilled to see him!

God waits for us, He doesn’t chase us down and demand our love… He patiently waits… He’s waiting to throw a Welcome Home party for our return just like the Prodigal son’s Father did.  He longs to see us coming down that road toward “HOME”.  He’s waiting patiently! 

My heart aches with spiritual emotions and sometimes actual physical pain for those who have and who are turning their backs on God and His love for them…who are letting the “worldly way of life” slowly slip back into their lives.  This is a very serious choice.  God won’t make you love Him or live for Him.  My heart grieves for those who seemingly have lost their way…Choosing the slippery road.  Sometimes I can only groan with the agony of the deception that is overtaking them! 

HE SET ME FREE

Verse One:
Once like a bird…in prison I dwelt….
No freedom from…my sorrow I felt….
But Jesus came and listened to me…….
And glory to God….he set me free…..
The Chorus:
He set me free…..yes…he set me free……
He broke the bonds….of prison for me…..
I’m glory…bound my Jesus to….see….
For glory to God….He set me free…..
Verse Two:
Now I am climbing….higher each day…
Darkness of night…has drifted away….
My feet are planted….on higher ground….
And glory to God….I’m homeward bound…..
Verse Three:
Good bye to sin…and things that confound….
Naught of this world….shall turn me around….
Daily…I’m working…and I’m praying too….
And glory to God….I’m going through…..
The Chorus:
He set me free…..yes…he set me free……
He broke the bonds….of prison for me…..
I’m glory…bound my Jesus to….see….
For glory to God….He set me free…..

My mind is reeling this morning, going in several directions… thankfulness, prayerfulness, joyfulness, gratefulness, traveling down memory lane & remembering how is used to be… praying and claiming VICTORY for all who feel the enemy at their heels.  I never want to return to those chains and the prison of darkness. 

Love Lifted Me

1. I was sinking deep in sin, far from the peaceful shore,
   Very deeply stained within, sinking to rise no more,
   But the Master of the sea heard my despairing cry,
   From the waters lifted me, now safe am I.
   • Refrain:
     Love lifted me!
     Love lifted me!
     When nothing else could help,
     Love lifted me!
2. All my heart to Him I give, ever to Him I’ll cling,
   In His blessed presence live, ever His praises sing,
   Love so mighty and so true, merits my soul’s best songs,
   Faithful, loving service, too, to Him belongs.
3. Souls in danger, look above, Jesus completely saves,
   He will lift you by His love, out of the angry waves.
   He’s the Master of the sea, billows His will obey,
   He your Savior wants to be, be saved today.

Oh, how GREAT is HIS LOVE!

This is a day we honor those

who have fought for our right to

enjoy this FREEDOM

we cherish and appreciate. 

They have given us the freedom to be allowed to choose the choices we do.  I am blessed and thankful that I can assemble with fellow Believers and worship God in Spirit and Truth… I count it a privilege and do not take this freedom for granted.

But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth.The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way.

God is a Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth. (John 4:23-24 NLT)

And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.  (John 8:32 NLT)

So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.           (John 8:36 NLT)

Blessings…enjoy your freedom,

April has been a crazy & wild month, especially in the heartland and the south!  Homes and belongings flung through the air… lives lost, family members missing…despair, distress, and lack of finances for restoration.  So many are experiencing the above.  In all my 60-years I have never observed the catastrophes that are occurring seemingly on a regular basis in our world.  I realize the media helps to spread the news of disasters that we might never have heard about years ago, and they seem to be increasing in intensity.

Growing up in California I experienced the ferocity of the Santa Anna winds, some flooding, and wild fires, but I had never heard of a tornado in CALIFORNIA.  Earthquakes, YES, but never a tornado! Now…it seems no place is exempt!

My own parents live in Joplin, Missouri and lived only 7-blocks from the path of destruction. Mom called me while I was on my way home from church Sunday evening and said, “We’re okay, didn’t want you to be worrying.”  Now, I hadn’t heard any news yet and my first words were “You are OK from WHAT?”.  As soon as I arrived home I got online and discovered the tragedy that had struck Joplin earlier that evening.  How close I came to losing my parents!

Having just recently been through “the tornado” in our area on April 27th… I have listened to people’s stories and seen the distress on their faces (I work for a major insurance company).  Some seem to portray “no hope”… while others have the attitude, “God spared my life and I’ll just do the best I can to rebuild and move on with my life.” 

As a Believer I realize that our possessions are blessings given to us temporarily!  While I would hate to lose what we’ve worked a life-time to enjoy…I sincerely hope that I would not “give up” on God or Life if they were removed from me. 

I believe “Natural” disasters are often caused by our misuse of Earth’s provisions.  However, I believe they also influence us spiritually and God is observing how we handle them.  God is not judging the world…yet!

Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. 

Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal.

Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will be also.   (Matthew 6:10-21 TLB)

I don’t think God is demanding everyone to rid themselves of all their earthly possessions and wander this earth aimlessly.  But I do believe He wants us to be aware that what we consider necessities may not be! 

Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth.

After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it.

So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content.   (1 Timothy 6:6-8 TLB)

These tragic storms have brought back the reality of what is most important in “life”, our loved ones, family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors are what should be!  

Possessions can be replaced, people cannot! 

All the recent catastrophes brought to mind just how quickly our lives can be changed forever!  One can leave the house in the morning and never return.  We may lie down at night and take our last breath on this earth.  Life is just a wisp that evaporates in the wind.

How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow?  Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone.  (James 4:14 TLB)

Life is precious and should not be taken for granted!  It’s so easy to get into the everydayness of living and forget the very ONE who gave us the “breath of life”. 

I have deep sorrow for those who have lost loved ones and possessions and cannot begin to imagine what they are going through when a loved one is still missing!  My prayers are with them daily…

We have a HOPE that is eternal and not bound to this earth’s gravity… HE is coming back.  I want to run this race with patience and endurance to the very end.  I may not be “caught away” when He comes back for His Bride… my time may come before that…I want to be “Ready” whenever my time on this earth ends…found faithful until my last breath is breathed.

Heartwhispers

Today is a “Partly Sunny” and cooler!  I have “energy” this morning and need to finish or at least work on some uncompleted projects (including sorting, reorganizing, and just general cleaning).  It’s amazing how just two people can clutter-up a house!

Graduation is coming up Friday, May 20th and we only have one graduate this year, Miss Amanda Watts.  I can’t believe how quickly time flies by.  Seems like just yesterday, she was this little 8-year old, skipping and running around… now, a young lady, soon to be 18! 

Praying she will follow God and praying for His guidance and direction.  So much potential… to be used for His Glory!

I have always kept a photo of our teens taped to my computer… and this was my reminder to pray for them.  Sometimes feeling a  special need to pray for one more than the others.  I pray for my own children the same way, even though they are grown men now and have families of their own. 

The past few weeks have been difficult ones for me in many ways… lots of stress… and without going into detail… have been in much prayer. I trust God and know that His will and way will be the best for me!  Circumstances and situations occur and we wonder “Why?”, not knowing the outcome can be despair for some… I cannot fathom being without God in my life.  The unknown… always lurking… can be very terrifying if we let it.  I have found that usually, tomorrow or the next, is a brighter day!  Trusting God and my attitude is the key to increasing Faith!  It’s so hard to be submissive, when we want to take control and do it our way!  His ways are not our ways… we trust Him even during the darkest days and rejoice always!

We will keep sowing The WORD of TRUTH and preparing for the HARVEST.

NIGHT comes before DAY… and I KNOW that GOD has plans for me, my husband, our family, and our church family in Dayton, TN. 

We have fought battles: devious & slanderous spirits, pressures of the world pulling our children away, financial pressure with the economy, but this ONE thing I KNOW… I KNOW that GOD has a church in Dayton, TN that believes the TRUTH of HIS WORD and though we fight the “prince of this world”… we have a GOD who will PREVAIL! 

WE KNOW the ending!  We may not know all that will occur before the end or in what order, but we KNOW who will win in the end! 

I love HIS WORD… I crave HIS PRESENCE… I desire HIS WILL always! "His love and mercy “endureth forever”.

Blessings and have a GREAT weekend and coming week!

I can feel the humidity building…   But otherwise a gorgeous day.  I have been tracking the greening of our backyard woods… in less than two weeks we have gone from mostly bare trees to a haze of feathery shades of green and endless groundcover containing who knows what.

The dogwoods are in full bloom and the purple Irises have almost lived out their days… Hubby has the “planting” bug and has purchased several six-packs of flowering bedding plants.  My tin porch planter awaits my design.

I on the other hand…am physically not up to par!  I guess whatever was going around at church and the office has finally won out!  I am extremely fatigued, weak, blowing and croaking.  But my heart and mind is overflowing with the abundance of God’s awesomeness and mercy toward mankind.  He is so patient with us!

Sometimes I think He allows this just to slow us down and gives us time to be introspective!  Life is a constant state of busyness without the downtime of “thinking” about things and life in general.  I crave the “quiet time”, time to think of the Glory and Honor due my God.  Time to dig into and devour His Word without interruption.  Time to reminisce and time to wonder about the future! 

I’ve discovered, for me, it’s in the early morning hours…beginning my day with His sweet presence and Word is a cherished time of fellowship divine! During this time, no matter what my circumstance or situations in life…I can focus with a clear mind and heart.

It may have taken me years to discover this about myself… when younger, I didn’t like getting up EARLY… and I would stay up late into the night… and that worked OK for me then (kind of).  Perhaps, it’s a matter of aging that has changed that, but maybe not.  Did I miss out all those years?  I’ll never know and cannot recall those days…but I’m “MOVING ON” and finding it works for me now!  I’m discovering the consistency and desire to “seek Him” is consuming me now more than ever before! 

I’ve always had a respect for the “sanctuary” the building…I was taught from an early age to respect the “House of God”.  And I believe that created in me the awesomeness of feeling His presence in the “sanctuary”.  I know, it’s just a building…but it is a designated building, just as the Tabernacle was for the Israelites.  This learned respect has caused me to realize more and more what I hold within me.  I am the “temple of the Holy Ghost”!  Therefore, with the same respect that I give to the “sanctuary”  (building) I give to my body the temple!  Wow…that should get us pondering!!!

We would never consider not feeding this body of ours…(other than a designated fast) so we should be just as consistent with feeding our spiritual body(heart, mind & soul).  If we are purposefully feeding our physical body, should we not do the same for our Spiritual body?  Growth and nourishment comes from feeding ourselves the “healthy” food. 

All this goes back to the simple matter of “our choice”.  We do exactly as our body and heart desires.  This is not mythical or mysterious…if you believe His Word is Truth! 

In all my 60 years I have not seen so many things occurring all over this world within such a short period of time.  Not just earthly disasters, but changes in morals, beliefs, and laws.  I recently read on CNN that in just a few years “religion” will become extinct!  I am profoundly glad that I don’t have “religion” but I have an “experience” that is with me constantly…He IS, WAS, and ALWAYS will be… the FIRST and the LAST…the BEGINNING and the END. 

I am thankful today beyond measure (even with my physical ailments)… that I know Him and am still in awesome amazement of His Power, Love, and Longsuffering towards His creation!

I still desire to know Him in a deeper way than ever before…still seeking His face…still loving His presence…

I’m just “60”and moving on…

Have a blessed weekend,

             Heartwhispers

Wow, what a Winter we have had thus far!  Atypical for us southerners!  While I have enjoyed the snow and yes, even the cold, and tried to ignore the wind… I am much aware this is all under His control.  While we may have abused our planet and atmosphere… it is still His creation!  However, I am now ready for Spring to burst forth! Our Southern Groundhog saw his shadow !  I prefer to believe the prediction of the Northern, Sir Groundhog!

When the weather is cold, rainy, snowy, I tend to want to hibernate in my home and am quite happy to nap, eat, sleep, read, write, nap, eat, sleep, read, eat…!  But the necessities of life do not allow me that luxury!  They are not delivered to my door or in my bank account without effort on my part.  Oh well…  We need ALL the SEASONS of life!

A Devotional thought… He KNOWS my Name!

I was reading this morning in:

Isaiah 43:1(NLT) “But now, O Jacob, listen to the LORD who created you.  O Israel, the one who formed you says,  Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you.  I have called you by name; you are mine.”

VS.2  “When you go through deep waters, I will be with you.  When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.”

It is an awesome thought to know that GOD knows our name!  Conceit? I don’t think so!  Some would say it is conceited, or prideful to think we are each one KNOWN of GOD… that our prideful thoughts will precipitate a great fall!

I was bestowed with the name, Pamla (no “e”) at my birth and my parents called me by that name or a shortened version, Pam.  However, if I heard my mother calling me and if she included my middle and last name… I knew I was in deep trouble!  But even then, I knew that the she loved me! I knew who I belonged to!  I knew my family name(s) and they knew mine.

This world may reject me for various reasons or forget my name and there will be billions who will never have associated my name with me personally.  To some I am just a number in government institutions or documents. But with God…I have a name and He will never forget my name. He has written my name down. 

He knew me while I was yet in my mother’s womb.  He knew my name even then!

“Never! Can a mother forget her nursing child?  Can she feel no love for the child she has borne?  But even if that were possible, I would not forget you!  vs. 16a  “See, I have written your name in the palm of my hands.  …”  ~Isaiah 49:15-16a (NLT)

          I am so appreciative of the fact that I have been grafted in!

We know He knows our name…because He hears us!  I am so thankful today for the overwhelming realization all over again… that I’m a Child of the King and He knows my name! 

Just think how we’re going to feel when we hear Him call our name! He knows yours…Do you know His?

Psalm 115: 17-18  The dead cannot sing praises to the LORD, for they have gone into the silence of the grave.

But we can praise the LORD both now and forever!  Praise the LORD!

116: 2b I will pray as long as I have breath!

As I was reading during my early morning “quiet time”… the above just really stood out on the page in BOLD print in my mind… “The DEAD CANNOT SING PRAISES to the LORD.”

In my reading and deep in my heart, I have been so impressed with praise and worshiping the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY! 

WORSHIP as a noun is used as a title of respect… His Worship the_____.   

I am referring to WORSHIP in the VERB sense: 

1. treat somebody or something as deity:  to treat somebody or something as divine and show respect by engaging in acts of prayer and devotion.

2. take part in a religious service.  (ACTION required from us)

3. love somebody deeply:  to love, admire, or respect somebody or something greatly and perhaps excessively or unquestioningly.

As a NOUN:

1. religious adoration:  the adoration, devotion, and respect given to deity.

2. religious rites: the rites or services through which people show adoration, devotion, and respect for deity.

3. great devotion:  great or excessive love, admiration, and respect felt for somebody or something.

After reading the above dictionary definitions, the last word was WORSHIPER!  All of the above is indicative of someone who is a worshiper! 

Am I a worshiper?  Are you?  Am I greatly devoted and deeply in love with my LORD?  What is my response to my adoration?  Am I truly praising God?  Am I just a noun (dead in spirit)… inactive…just a thought or words on paper… or am I a VERB… active in my praise and in my admiration, adoration, devotion, excessive love, and unquestioning respect… have I become a WORSHIPER of my LORD and Savior?

GOD delights in the praise and worship of His people. 

They are whizzing by, the years that is!  I agree now Mom, they do go by faster at this age that I now am!  I cannot reminisce without wondering, “was it really that long ago?”.

Awakened this morning to the sound of abundance of rain and wind!  Since I have so many huge trees in my yard, I do not enjoy wind… although, wind is what moves the weather currents on to the next stopping place.  However, we do need the rain.

We arrived home safe and sleepy from our Watch Night service around 1:55 am.  Pastor preached “Redeeming the Time”.

Didn’t see even one DUI driver on the way home, and for that I am thankful.  That is my only fear of driving home after a Watch Night Service. 

Every year on New Year’s Eve, I ponder over the coming year and what I think it may hold for me, my family, my church family, my friends and foes .   But I always have found it to be true… I cannot out-guess GOD! 

I Corinthians 2:11 – “For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him?  Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God.”

God is in control!  He has let me mull over my misgivings of the past year and listened to my desires for the next… but the truth is…it’s up to me!   He will be there in all the joyous times, and through all the storms, disappointments, and hardships encouraging me, reminding me of my desires, but the ultimate result is truly mine to decide. 

Galatians 5:24 – “And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” ( vs. 25  “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.”)

I am the one who must choose to FOLLOW HIM (we do the WALKING)!  I am the one who must make the CHOICES that will benefit my spiritual journey!  HE will NOT force me to love Him, praise Him, worship Him, or even to communicate with Him.  I am the overseer of my carnal/fleshly self and it is up to me to take responsibility for my decisions.  ME…HE has given ME that CHOICE.  So, HE knows if I really want to, I can make it!  “You gotta have the WANT TO” (as Elder Oggs used to say)! 

I may not be in control of all circumstances in my life, but now that I have His Spirit (the Comforter/Helper/Counselor) I can:  “Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.”  (Galatians 5:1)

“You ran well.  Who hindered you from obeying the truth?  This persuasion does not come from Him who calls you.”  ~Galatians 5:7-8 (emphasis mine)

I am not an advocate of New Year Resolutions, but I do think of the beginning of each year as a day to begin a “SECOND CHANCE”.  It is only when we quit trying that we are defeated and satan has won.  We are in a battle for our very souls.  How easy it is to forget that we have a lion roaring around in our world attempting to devour us!  He is so subtle and will often use the very ones we love and trust to confuse and discourage us.  He is sneaky, divisive, smooth of speech, an avid artful liar, and enjoys the thrill of seeing Heirs of God fall.  How easy it is to be lulled into a complacent stupor and overlook the “fallen one” dancing on our victory. 

What will this year hold for me, for you, for us as the Body of Believers – the Bride of Christ? We have seen many of our foundational Fathers and Mothers leave this world this past year…will the next generation step up and take the challenge, wrap the  mantel across our shoulders and carry the burden? 

The NIV translations says in I Corinthians 9:26 – “Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air.”

I run with purposeful intent… knowing the prize that awaits me.

This journey is truly a “walk for life”… our very souls depend on how and where we WALK.  

If our walk has been a little unsteady or the path has been a little rocky and hard to climb… let’s stop, get our bearings, and begin again… let’s take the SECOND CHANCE!

And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.          ~John 1:14

For several weeks now, THE WORD has been on my mind and heart.  Since the very first church service attended after my birth, I have heard THE WORD preached.  Growing up as a minister/pastor’s daughter and later becoming a minister/pastor’s wife,  I have heard THE WORD discussed, preached, taught, and debated my whole life. 

THE WORD has always been a part of my life.  A precious part, even though at times I did not like what THE WORD was telling me, through the ministers, pastors and teachers.

It has been THE WORD that has kept me free from the tugging of this world’s gravity!  THE WORD has kept me on the right path!  THE WORD has helped me NOT to choose the path of least resistance…when it would have been so easy to do so!

THE WORD has dropped me to my knees in tears of sorrow for a friend or lost loved ones. 

THE WORD has prostrated me face down with unknown utterances and moanings, not knowing what or for whom I was praying!  All that was required was my intercession.

As the years have passed (52+ since receiving His Gift, the promised Comforter), THE WORD has become even more precious and important to me on my journey.

THE WORD has given me peace in situations that were less than comfortable, encouragement in times of disappointment, confidence in times of slanderous lies, promises in time of need, Comfort through the storms of life, both physical and spiritual.  THE WORD has been there in my heart and by my side!

THE WORD has given me JOY in my salvation without needing to know the “whys”.  I have experienced the questions all have answers in HIS time, not mine!

THE WORD is my source of strength, the method God communicates with me on a daily basis.  How can I truly know Him, if I don’t read THE WORD.

Understanding comes with THE WORD…  I cannot “lean on my own understanding”… my understanding is limited to this world and human emotions… HIS is beyond limitation. 

This is the one I esteem:  he who is humble and contrite in spirit, and trembles at my word.  ~ Isaiah 66:2  (emphasis mine)

Do we tremble at HIS WORD?  Sometimes I fear there is a dearth of reading THE WORD, at least consistently.  I am guilty too! 

I remember a time when you would have thought it was a sin to not take THE WORD to church with you.  We were eager to follow in THE WORD as it was ministered to us.  Now…???  Do we no longer tremble at THE WORD? 

Our LORD communicates to us through THE WORD… we must read, wait, and listen.  HE will communicate with us if we desire His presence.

I discovered many years ago, if I did not read THE WORD, pray, (and hear THE WORD spoken), that I was starving myself and my carnal self began to override my spiritual desires.  I became malnourished spiritually.

Many today, disregard THE WORD for intellectual pursuits, philosophies, and favor of mankind. They are not “seeking” after THE WORD.

How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only? ~ John 5:44

We are more willing to take the word from a secular professor of Biblical history as profound doctrinal truth than we are to seek the truths from THE WORD.  We say, these men are renown for their knowledge of biblical history, they must surely speak truth. 

I am NOT saying that Biblical history is not valuable!!!  Please do not misunderstand me!  I am NOT advocating that we do not read anything but THE WORD.  But when we take the word of man that is in direct contradiction of THE WORD then we are standing on dangerous ground.  The educational systems of this world would have us to believe that THE WORD is literature and history only and not meant for us today.  Some do not even believe it is THE WORD.  Others believe we can manipulate the word to say what we want it to say.  This makes us comfortable in our sin. We have chosen the “easy road” to travel.  Our flesh, carnal self then has total command of our life.  We are no longer fearful, nor do we tremble at THE WORD.

A voice came from the cloud, saying, “This is my beloved Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him.”  ~ Luke 9:34

Yes, HE came to earth and put on the robe of flesh and sacrificed the flesh so that we could be saved.  “THE WORD became FLESH and dwelt among us…”

I could go on and on pouring out my heart today… but I must stop today with this…

O God, You are my God; Early will I seek You; My soul thirsts for You; My flesh longs for YOU in a dry and thirsty land Where there is no water.  ~ Psalm 63:1

Is your soul thirsting for HIM? for THE WORD?  Do you tremble at THE WORD.

Trust in Him at all times, you people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is our refuge.  ~ Psalm 62:8

We must seek Him through THE WORD. 

What has THE WORD became… in your life?

 

Let me preface this post with “I do believe there is a generation that will STAND UP to the fiery darts this world is throwing at those with convictions and morals and who believe in Biblical truths. His truth will march on from generation to generation…”

 The passing of our “Warriors” of this faith have me in a contemplative mood right now!  As I observed the home going of Bishop G. A. Mangun online several weeks ago my heart ached for the “old paths”.  My mind began to reminisce about the past and consider the future.

Perhaps, as one gets older that’s what we do – remember the past and speculate about the future.  I remember so much of how it “used to be” and sometimes I wonder about … how “it will be”. 

Will our generation have stood up to the test of time and will the future generation (the one just behind us) stand firm or will there be a “falling away”.  We read in God’s Word that there is a sifting process… and that there is or will be a falling away. 

As each generation ages and sees the generation ahead “going home”, it is a challenge to pick up “the mantle” and carry on.  Do we really want to wear the mantle, or is it just too much trouble, to time consuming, too involved?  Is “The Mantle” too old-fashioned for us today?

Is it too hard to follow after and seek true Holiness?  Yes, standards are a big part of this… but NOT the issue… lack of standards reflects outwardly the inner being… the true Heart of a person.  It’s only the outward reflection of what’s inside a person. 

I’m concerned about something more than standards (I am a firm believer in standards of moral conduct, modest dress, and conversation). .  I’m speaking of something far deeper than what we wear on the outside… but also realizing that the outside will mirror the inside.  There is a deeper place than just the “standards of Holiness”. 

There is a place where standards of holiness become such a way of life that hardly a second thought is given to them.  Our mind and heart is yearning and filled with desire to be in the fellowship of our one and only Saviour, Jesus the Christ. This is an overwhelming desire that supersedes all of our earthly passions.  His will for our lives becomes the prevailing force that drives us…everything else pales in comparison to His will.

Then and only then do we step inside the circle of His love and begin to fully understand the Power of His Spirit within us.  It’s awesome when we realize HIS SPIRIT really does dwell within us.

To be continued… Part II

We read that scripture many times during the year… but do we really read it with soul searching desire for God to do just that!

What does it take for Him to create a Clean Heart and Renew a right spirit within us?

What trials must we endure and what temptations must we conqueror in order to receive a clean heart and a right spirit?

Our hearts cry must crash through the black clouds of doubt, fear, unbelief, lack of faith, and the uncertainties of the trials of life we endure… we must soar through those  black storm clouds  into the vastness of His light and love.  His light becomes a reflection in our heart and guides us into the sunshine of FAITH, BELIEF, FEARLESS COURAGE, BOLDNESS to speak the WORD when the trials seem endless and strength to endure seems beyond reach in our fleshly weakness.  He is there!

David knew how to repent… how to fall on his face and seek God …how to humble himself before His God.  David’s consistency in seeking God with a humble and contrite heart was his strength and his salvation and the salvation of his people.

Have we forgotten how to seek God with our whole heart?  Do we really want Him to cleanse our heart and renew a right spirit within us? 

Words on the page are easy to write, easy to read and easy to speak,  but doing them is the answer to our discontent and unrest… our weary souls need Him and we must seek Him with our whole heart.  We can hold nothing back…  every part of us must desire Him more than anything. 

Let Him be the God of our heart!  Let’s give Him our WHOLE HEART!  Then stand firmly and wait… see the awesomeness of our God.  He is willing to do all that we desire… but we must seek Him and desire Him with everything in us.

Do we really mean it when we sing that old chorus:

He is my everything / He is my all / He is my everything / both great and small / He gave His life for me / made everything new / He is my everything / friend how about you…

We want to see souls birthed into His Kingdom…but we don’t want to give Him all… we Hold Back… Oh what He longs to do in our lives if only… if only we would yield totally to His will and give him ours!

It’s my desire to live for Jesus…