A New Beginning…again?

1/4/12

Beloved–

A new year reminds me of when I first invited Christ into my heart.  I want to always be sure that my heart is a place where Christ comes first and is my true treasure.

Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.(matt 6:21nlt)

Then I see how far a field I have gone and I could fall into despair but I don’t because one of my favorite Bible writers reminds me that I don’t have to wait for a new year….the Lord offers renewal daily.

…..your strength will be renewed each day like the morning dew. (psm 110:3nlt)

How great is that to know?   I pray daily for you to get that knowledge, that assurance from the Word.

Luv Ya!

 Alining Goals

1/11/12

Beloved–

Solomon says in Proverbs that the Lord God formed wisdom before he created the first handfuls of soil; that he created me in His own image and granted me a treasure of common sense.  The apostle Peter (2 Peter 1) tells me that the most important thing I can do is get wisdom and understanding because they lead to knowledge of God which leads to self control and godly behavior.

Usually, when things (or people) pile up to frustrate me beyond measure I do a lot of whining and complaining.  This year I made a decision to use my treasure of common sense and stop whining and complaining; easier said than done.  I have asked God to change my heart every time I have a critical or negative thought.  It’s only been 12 days but I see a change…in me.  God always grants your heart’s desire when you line up your goals at his feet.

I pray for you daily that your goals are in line with his for you.

Luv Ya!

Happiness or Joy…your choice

1/18/12

Beloved–

Which is better happiness or joy?

hap·py [hap-ee] adjective (a description)

1. delighted, pleased, or glad, as over a particular thing: to be happy to see a person.

2. characterized by or indicative of pleasure, contentment, or joy: a happy mood; a happy frame of mind.

Joy [joi] noun (a statement, usually of fact)

1. the emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying; keen pleasure;elation: She felt the joy of seeing her son’s success.

2. a source or cause of keen pleasure or delight; something or someone greatly valued or appreciated: Her prose style is a pure joy.

I know I can’t always be in a happy frame of mind because my circumstances are ever changing.  I can always find joy in all situations because I know the source of my joy is never changing.  Happiness is fleeting, joy is permanent…it’s my choice.

Psalm 30:5b    Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.   I am praying for you to KNOW JOY in tears or in smiles.

Luv Ya!

We know better…we just don’t it.

1/25/12

Beloved–

I have children that look like me but have their dad’s character.  I have children that look like their dad but have my character.  I also have children that are a combination of both characteristics.

(Genesis 1:27a) So God created human beings in his own image.

My character is suppose to have my heavenly father’s image…he gave me a conscience with the ability to know what is right and to know what is wrong.  Frequently I choose to walk the very narrow line in the middle.

So I pray for wisdom and discernment to keep my mouth shut and a willingness to give grace not just mercy.  I pray daily for you for wisdom and discernment to know God’s direction in your life.

Luv Ya!

2/1/12

 Obedience/self discipline can be gratifying

Beloved–

I am having trouble sticking to the “safe path.”  One of my daily prayers is for wisdom on how to be the kind of person the Lord wants me to be as his representative.  The Bible says we are stand against evil but RUN from temptation.  Sometimes I don’t even recognise temptation until after I have walked into the trap and the door slams shut.  Sometimes I see clearly but I walk right in and sit right down any way.  King David said it best in Psalm 32.

1Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven,  whose sin is put out of sight!  2Yes, what joy for those whose record the LORD has cleared of guilt, whose lives are lived in complete honesty!  3When I refused to confess my sin, my body wasted away,  and I groaned all day long.  4Day and night your hand of discipline was heavy on me.  My strength evaporated like water in the summer heat. 5Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt.  I said to myself, “I will confess my rebellion to the LORD.”  And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone.  6Therefore, let all the godly pray to you while there is still time, that they may not drown in the flood waters of judgment.  7For you are my hiding place; you protect me from trouble.  You surround me with songs of victory.  8The LORD says, “I will guide you along the best  pathway for your life.  I will advise you and watch over you.  9Do not be like a senseless horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control.”  10Many sorrows come to the wicked, but unfailing love surrounds those who trust the LORD.  11So rejoice in the LORD and be glad, all you who obey him!

I pray for you daily that your heart’s desire is to have the joy of the Lord!

Luv Ya!

“What if…”

2/8/12

Beloved–

What if you prayed asking God to bless your plan for the future, but no “door” opened to implement that plan?  You recalculate to a plan B and even a plan C but there is no open door.

You worked hard for a long time. weighing all the pros and cons very carefully to produce a worthy plan, not too conservative and not too wild.  You just, know deep in your very being that one of these plans will assure the satisfaction you seek, but which door to open?  You try them all but none will open!  You pray show me, Lord and go back to study where you missed an unseen pro or con and find more doors that won’t open.

Now what?? A room full of doors and none will open; or some doors look like a good possibility but quickly fizzle out. You think to yourself, God must not care. The frustration level reaches the red zone, fear sets in and the enemy piles on with, “you don’t deserve God’s mercy and even less his grace.”  The doubts surround you and you feel totally beat down.

You are ready to give up but in the back of your mind you remember hearing in some pastor’s sermon or read it while memorizing a Bible verse that “God loves me” and he proved it by sending his Son to the cross to pay the debt you couldn’t pay.

Trust in the LORD and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you your heart’s desires.  Commit everything you do to the LORD. Trust him, and he will help you. Be still in the presence of the LORD, and wait patiently for him to act. Stop being angry! Turn from your rage! Do not lose your temper— it only leads to harm. For the wicked will be destroyed, but those who trust in the LORD will possess the land.  The LORD directs the steps of the godly.  He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the LORD holds them by the hand. (from Psm 37nlt)

I pray daily that you never get so down that you doubt God’s love or so high that you forget where your blessings come from.

Luv Ya!

2/15/12

How do I do that…what does waiting look like?

Beloved–

I pray for wisdom on how to choose the right plan; and then I do everything within my power to carry out that plan.  There are many different doors of opportunity that appear to start me on the road to my goal; but some doors are locked and others go no where.

Be still in the presence of the LORD, and wait patiently for him to act.*

How can I wait? Just how does waiting work in everyday situations?  How can I actually function?

Trust in the LORD and do good.*

I grumble and complain (a lot) but in the end I submit to his authority over my life.  There is no other way to be happy then to trust and obey!  I do what needs to be done and when I think about my desired goal and impatient thoughts enter my mind, I forcibly reject the thought, sometimes out loud.  I tell myself God is working, his timing is perfect, and I thank him for what he is going to do; I praise him for who he is and his graciousness to me.

Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you your heart’s desires.* *from Psalm 37

I pray daily for you to submit to his authority over you and take delight in the LORD.

Luv Ya!

2/22/12

Ash Wednesday

Beloved—

Today is Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent and occurs 46 days (40 days not counting Sundays) before Easter.  It falls on a different date each year because it is dependent on the date of Easter.  It can occur as early as February 4 or as late as March 10.

The purpose of Lent (recalling Jesus’ 40-day fast in the wilderness) is to be a season of fasting, self-denial, prayer, scripture reading, penitence, conversion, and simplicity. Lent, which comes from the Teutonic (Germanic) word for springtime, can be viewed as a spiritual spring cleaning: a time for taking spiritual inventory and then cleaning out those things which hinder our corporate and personal relationships with Jesus Christ and our service to him.

Prayer: Lent is a good time to develop or strengthen a discipline of daily prayer. A good goal for Lent would be to praise God in prayer morning and evening daily.  Praise and thanksgiving first and requests second.

Scripture Reading:  When facing temptation in the desert, Jesus relied on Scripture to counter the wiles of the devil. It is a formidable weapon for us as well.

A good scripture to start is:

1 I bless God every chance I get; my lungs expand with his praise.  2 I live and breathe God; if things aren’t going well, hear this and be happy: 3 Join me in spreading the news; together let’s get the word out.   4 God met me more than halfway; he freed me from my anxious fears.   5 Look at him; give him your warmest smile.   Never hide your feelings from him.   6 When I was desperate, I called out, and God got me out of a tight spot.   7 God’s angel sets up a circle of protection around us while we pray.  8 Open your mouth and taste, open your eyes and see— how good God is.  Blessed are you who run to him.   9 Worship God if you want the best; worship opens doors to all his goodness.   10 Young lions on the prowl get hungry, but God-seekers are full of God.   11 Come, children, listen closely; I’ll give you a lesson in God worship.   12 Who out there has a lust for life?   Can’t wait each day to come upon beauty?   13 Guard your tongue from profanity, and no more lying through your teeth.   14 Turn your back on sin; do something good.   Embrace peace—don’t let it get away!   15 God keeps an eye on his friends; his ears pick up every moan and groan.   16 God won’t put up with rebels; he’ll cull them from the pack.  17 Is anyone crying for help? God is listening, ready to rescue you.   18 If your heart is broken, you’ll find God right there; if you’re kicked in the gut, he’ll help you catch your breath.   19 Disciples so often get into trouble; still, God is there every time.   20 He’s your bodyguard, shielding every bone; not even a finger gets broken.   21 The wicked commit slow suicide; they waste their lives hating the good.   22 God pays for each slave’s freedom; no one who runs to him loses out.  Psm 34 the Message

Pray that we can be diligent in your “spring cleaning process.”  I’m praying for you morning, noon and night for the next 46 days.

Luv Ya!

2/29/12

Back to the Doors of opportunity

Beloved–

Back to what to do about of closed doors of opportunity… you wait!

If you keep trying to open “closed doors” expecting a different result and if you are not willing to wait you won’t be able to move forward nor recognize the real “door of opportunity.

People may be right in their own eyes, but the LORD examines their heart.  No human wisdom or understanding or plan can stand against the LORD.  The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD. (from Prov. 21nlt) I’m praying for you daily

Luv Ya!

3/7/12

Waiting for “doors” to open can be a time of joy!

Beloved–

Waiting for “doors” of opportunity to open can be a time of joy.

Joy because

–even when all the “doors” to my heart’s desire appear to be closed, I choose to be joyful.

–despite the fact that all those who love me think my ideas lack merit (where’d you get that crack pot idea) and I feel totally alone still I choose to be joyful..

–I know I’m never alone, the Lord is always just outside my consciousness…I choose to be joyful.

–LORD, you know everything about me.  You know my thoughts, you know everything I do. You know what I am going to say even before I say it, LORD.  You go before me and follow me.  I can never escape from your Spirit!  I can never get away from your presence! (psm 139) So I choose to be joyful.

I pray for you daily to KNOW that the Lord loves you in a measure beyond your wildest dreams.

Luv Ya!

3/14/12 Doing it joyfully

Beloved–

Most parents have a set of values that they want their children to emulate; some parents are into sports for their children, others are into the arts or good grades.  And so it is with our heavenly father who is into PERFECTION for his children.  Our heavenly father created us in his image, so that we would think, look and act like him.  We were created one-by-one with a specific plan for each one of us; God is the one who “wired” us the way we are for his purposes and that we will give him the glory!  Psm 139:1;16 O LORD… you know everything about me;…Every day of my life was recorded in your book.

Many of us cringe at the idea that we are not our own person with our own original ideas; but our father, like any good parent gently but firmly (mostly; some of us need a 2×4) encourages us to follow his plan.  Most children resemble one parent more than the other if not in looks frequently in actions or deeds.  Despite appearances, no two human beings are exactly the same in all aspects; but every child of God can work at emulating the heavenly father.  We don’t even have to do it all by-our-self or in our own strength; we are never alone (Acts 2:25-26) and the better we get to know our heavenly parent (2Pet 1:2-8) the easier it becomes to joyfully follow his plan for us.

My daily prayer for you is that you pray to your loving heavenly father to help you to get to know him better and better every day.

Luv Ya!

3/21/12

Beloved— A Psalm of David

O LORD, I give my life to you. I trust in you, my God!  Do not let me be disgraced, or let my enemies rejoice in my defeat.  No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced,  but disgrace comes to those who try to deceive others.  Show me the right path, O LORD;  point out the road for me to follow.  Lead me by  your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you. Remember, O LORD, your compassion and unfailing love, which you have shown from long ages past. Do not  remember the rebellious sins of my youth.  Remember me in the light of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O LORD.  The LORD is good and does what is right; he shows the proper path to those who go astray.  He leads the humble in doing right, teaching them his way.  The LORD leads with unfailing love and faithfulness all who keep his covenant and obey his demands.  For the honor of your name, O LORD,      forgive my many, many sins.  Who are those who fear the LORD?  He will show them the path they should choose.  They will live in prosperity, and their children will inherit the land.  The LORD is a friend to those who fear him.  He teaches them his covenant.  My eyes are always on the LORD, for he rescues me.  Psalm 25:1-15 nlt

I pray for you daily that you will chose to put your life in God’s hands, no matter how scary that can sound, much less practice.

Luv Ya!

3/28/12

Beloved–

How do I know what would have happened if I had been obedient?

Believer or not every human being was born with an innate sense of right and wrong.  As new believer I learned that I was to be in the world but not of the world.  Some relationships should not be entered into.  But like the non-compliant child who ignores the warnings and touches the hot stove; I chose to be disobedient.  I didn’t think I was sinning I was just having a bit of innocent fun that made me feel good.  I entrusted God with my soul but not with my heart’s desire.

As I continued to study the Word the warnings became deafening and 4 months into the “non” relationship, I ended it.  Much to my surprise my obedience caused me pain, for three days I kept asking God,”why me?”  I was actually blaming God for allowing me to make bad choices (the Adam blaming God, “its that woman you gave me” syndrome).  Again, temptation confronted my desire to be obedient and this time I failed to even hear the “shouted” warning and sinned.

Do you think you know what’s best for you to be happy…but there is no door nor window not even a pinhole of a possibility of light.  It took me three years to recognise my sin and confess it to God begging for his mercy.  It took another 20 years for me to learn, that I could bloom (find joy) no matter how difficult the situation.  I learned that God had my back, he knew my heart’s desire and that his timing was perfect.  I learned that when I am obedient and joyfully choose God’s heart’s desire for my own that’s where I will find my happiness.

I pray for you daily that you will hear and heed the warnings when they come; that you will feel his presence by reading his word and not despair because His timing is perfect!

Luv Ya!

4/4/12

Beloved–

COME, LET US SING TO THE LORD!  LET US SHOUT JOYFULLY TO THE ROCK OF OUR SALVATION.  THE LORD HAS REALLY RISEN!  *from Psalms & Luke

I pray for you daily that you KNOW that Jesus is alive!  He cares about what you care about, every detail.

Happy Easter!!!

4/11/12

Beloved–

I was overwhelmed with shame and gratitude as I heard the words sung by the worship team; the words struck my heart so deeply that it wiped away all my frustrations and petty complaints.  I keep hearing the words in my head frequently throughout the day reminding me that God is right

eside and he is always in control.

I have a maker He formed my heart Before even time began My life was in His hands. He knows my name He knows my every thought He sees each tear that falls And he hears me when I call  I have a Father he calls me his own He’ll never leave me no matter where I go

I pray that you will recognize the truth of these words in your own life.  As I pray for you each day, I pray that your relationship with the Lord will grow stronger and heart encompassing.

Luv Ya!

4/18/12

It’s Wednesday on Thursday!

Beloved–

I’ve spent the last 3 days preparing my house for the fumigators…we have termites!  It just part of living in Southern California but who would want to live anywhere else?

When I thought about being homeless for the next 4 days it made me think about the Israelites.  What would it be like to be homeless like they were and yet unafraid.  Me, I get anxious when the newspapers and magazines are stacked together.  My moto is a place for everything and everything in its place.  I’m totally spoiled!

Then I remember it is not about me and I need to keep my eyes on him and not on me.  I am blessed beyond measure because the Lord made me for his purposes.

Not to us, O Lord, not to us,  but to your name goes all the glory for your unfailing love and faithfulness.  All you who fear the Lord, trust the Lord!  He is your helper and your shield.  He will bless those who fear the Lord, both great and lowly. From Psalm 115

I pray daily for you and for me not to lose sight of the reason for our lives.

Luv Ya!

4/25/12

Beloved–

As a new Christian I decided to read the Bible through.  I took the number of chapters divided by 30 days and chose to read that many pages each day.  It took me 6 days to read chapter 119 in Psalms with its 179 verses.  It has become one of my favorite Psalms.  Following are excerpts from verses 75 to 100 that I use to pray God’s word back to him.

I know, O Lord, that your regulations are fair;  you disciplined me because I needed it.  Now let your unfailing love comfort me, just as you promised me, your servant.  Surround me with your tender mercies so I may live, for your instructions are my delight…Let me be united with all who fear you,  with those who know your laws… Your eternal word, O Lord,  stands firm in heaven.  Your faithfulness extends to every generation,  as enduring as the earth you created.  Your regulations remain true to this day,  for everything serves your plans.  If your instructions hadn’t sustained me with joy, I would have died in my misery.  I will never forget your commandments,  for by them you give me life.  I am yours…Even perfection has its limits,  but your commands have no limit. Oh, how I love your instructions!  I think about them all day long.  Your commands make me wiser than my enemies, for they are my constant guide.

I pray for you daily that the Word will become your constant companion; that a day without it will feel empty.

Luv Ya!

5/2/12

Beloved–

I heard a young mother ask her 3-year-old, “do you understand me?”  He replied, “I understand.”  I wondered did he really comprehend or was he answering in the manner in which he had been taught.

The dictionary says to understand is to have knowledge or to comprehend.  The word tells us that God created the heavens and the earth through his knowledge and wisdom; and that we too, are to get wisdom and understanding, to actively search for it.  When we do understand who God is we will have peace of mind and heart even in the midst of chaos.

I pray for you daily that you will have peace of mind and heart.

Luv Ya!

5/9/12

 Beloved–

How can I have peace of mind and heart?  When I’ve hit a brick wall with no apparent escape and chaos reigns…there is no peace of mind or heart; only frustration, despair and the feeling of how unfair things are.

God, the Father is creator, God, the Son loved me (Maggie warts and all) so much so that he shed his blood on Calvary and God, the Holy Spirit wants to manifest the gospel through me.   Therefore, I must die to myself so that Jesus Christ can live in me.

I pray for you daily that you want Christ to live through you because of what he did for you.

Luv Ya!

5/16/12

Beloved–

I know I can’t always be in a happy frame of mind because my circumstances are ever changing.  I can always find joy in all situations because I know the source of my joy is never changing.  Happiness is fleeting, joy is permanent…it’s my choice.  from prov 16

We can make our own plans,  but the Lord gives the right answer.  We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps. from psm 138    The Lord will work out his plans for my life—for your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever. Though I am surrounded by troubles,  you will protect me from the anger of my enemies.  from psm 34    I will praise the Lord at all times.  I will constantly speak of his glory and grace.  I will boast only in the Lord; let all who are helpless take heart.  from psm 138  I give you thanks, O Lord, with all my heart; I will sing your praises before the gods.  I bow before your holy Temple as I worship.  I praise your name for your unfailing love and faithfulness; for your promises are backed by all the honor of your name.  As soon as I pray, you answer me; you encourage me by giving me strength.

I am not happy in my present circumstances but I choose to be joyful.   from prov 16   Those who listen to instruction will prosper;  those who trust the Lord will be joyful.

I pray for you daily that you will prosper and be joyful.

Luv ya!

5/23/12

Beloved–

This past few weeks I’ve spent time with two of my young teenage granddaughters.  They are modern  girls who know their “rights” and there is no doubt about it!  I’m sure that they think I’m just behind the times; but they were surprised to find out that I blog, use Google and shop online.

The issue of rights came up when the girls heard their grandfather asked me to do something for him.  I voiced my opinion that I thought it wasn’t a very good idea; the girls agreed with me.  Finally, I said I would do it because he wanted it done.  The girls were angry because I acceded to my husband’s wishes.  “That’s not fair,” they said, its a dumb idea.  “Why do you let him put you down, you have rights!”   “I’ll never let my husband tell me what to do!

I explained that God instructed me, in his word, to trust him and be obedient and to respect my husband.  So I was doing what my husband asked me to do out of respect for my husband and obedience to my heavenly father because I trust him completely!   It says it all through out the Proverbs.

A gracious woman gains respect, but ruthless men gain only wealth.

A beautiful woman who lacks discretion is like a gold ring in a pig’s snout.

A worthy wife is a crown for her husband, but a disgraceful woman is like cancer in his bones.

A wise woman builds her home, but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands.

I pray for you daily, that you trust and obey,

Luv Ya!

5/30/12

Beloved–

Proverbs 3:5-12 nlt

Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.  Seek his will in all you do,  and he will show you which path to take.  Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom.  Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil.  Then you will have healing for your body and strength for your bones.

Don’t Assume You Know It All msg

5-12 Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own.  Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track.  Don’t assume that you know it all.  Run to God! Run from evil!  Your body will glow with health, your very bones will vibrate with life!

I pray for you everyday that you will trust and obey, there is no other way.

Luv Ya!

6/6/12

Beloved–

I am reading through the Psalms of King David (a man after God’s own heart) and no matter how many times I reread them they always resonate in my heart.  King David recognized his own weakness despite the power his earthly position commanded.

O Lord, hear me as I pray; Answer me when I call to you; Have mercy on me and hear my prayer; O Lord, hear me as I pray; pay attention to my groaning; How long, O Lord, until you restore me?  Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, for I pray to no one but you. psm 4-6

The word constantly reminds me that I am not alone; I don’t have to do everything myself.  I can trust him to take care of the situation despite the apparent chaos.

I pray for you daily that you stay in the word so that you can know that there is mercy and grace available for you.

Luv Ya!

6/13/12

Beloved–

I’m a detail person, aka control freak; a big picture attitude means chaos to me.  I follow a daily routine.

Not doing “something”  to prevent the mental chaos of being unfairly treated is very difficult for me.   But because of the loving patience of my Lord, I’ve learned (both in the Old and New Testaments) that the obedience of trusting him to handle a  situation is a blessing beyond measure.

The New Testament referring to the Old Testament:

Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures* say, “I will take revenge;  I will pay them back,”    says the Lord.  Instead, “If your enemies are hungry, feed them.  If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads.”    Romans 12:19-20 (NLT)

*Proverbs 25:21-22 (NLT)

The Message version says,

“If you see your enemy hungry, go buy him lunch; if he’s thirsty, bring him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness, and God will look after you. Proverbs 25:21-22 (MSG)

I pray daily for you to see the blessing of obedience.

Luv Ya!

6/20/12

Beloved–

“Surprise your enemy with goodness.”   Yeah, well the easy part is the action; following through with a sincere feeling of forgiveness that’s the hard part.

All week long I have been repeating over and over the refrain from a song, “change my heart O God” and confessing my mistakes and my foolish willfulness, praying that the Lord will undo any harm I may have done and help me to show others that I belong to him.

I pray for you daily that your desire is to belong to him.

Luv Ya!

6/27/12

Beloved–

The Word tells me to confess my sins so that I can be forgiven and prosper.

But we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. John 1:9 nlt

Anger and impatience are easy to recognize; jealousy and resentment not so much.  I tend to bury them under the guise of hurt feelings that I need to forgive (with an undoubted pat on the back) rather than recognizing them as sin that needs to be confessed.

People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy.  You can’t whitewash your sins and get by with it; you find mercy by admitting and leaving them. Prov. 28:13 nlt & msg

What I have concluded is that holding one’s self out at arm’s length is very heavy and downright unpleasant.  However, once you get over the initial shock of what you have hidden from yourself, confessed it, the feeling is indescribable.  I was able to say, “have your own way with me, Lord” and really mean it!

I pray for you daily that you can say, have your own way with me, Lord and really mean it.

Luv Ya!

7/4/12

Beloved–

Today, as you wish our country happy birthday, pray daily that our country puts on the full armor of God.

                                                                                 HAPPY BIRTHDAY U S A !!!

Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.  In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.  Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.  Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.  Ephesians 6:14-18 (NLT)

Luv Ya!

7/11/12

Beloved–

I have spoken to you about the confession of sin.

(People who conceal their sins will not prosper; Prov. 28:13 nlt)

The Lord has spoken to my heart, showing me that I have been concealing sin, the sin of arrogance.  I have been giving the Lord restrictions on what areas of my life he could touch and what areas he should leave alone.  I had even concealed it from myself.  Pray that I willingly love the Lord with all my heart, all my soul, all mind, and all my strength and that all I do will glorify him.

I pray for you daily that you will prosper because you are striving to do all you do for the glory of God, the father.

Luv Ya!

7/18/12

Beloved–

My purpose in life, the reason for my existence, is to glorify God the Father in all that I do, say and think.

Dealing with health issues and physical disability, has caused me to fail miserably.  I have prayed for relief; forgetting that the heavenly father does only what is best for me.   Also, forgetting that for me obedience is the only thing that gives me peace of mind and heart.  So, once again I can say with joy, “yes sir, no sir, what ever you say sir!”

I pray daily for you to experience the blessing of obedience to God the father.

Luv Ya!

7/25/12

Beloved–

Confession and repentance produce freedom from anxiety and a restless heart.

from Psalm 51

Have mercy on me, O God,  because of your unfailing love.  Because of your great compassion,  blot out the stain of my sins.  Wash me clean from my guilt.  Purify me  from my sin.  For I recognize my rebellion;  it haunts me day and night.  Against you, and you alone, have I sinned;

But you desire honesty from the womb, teaching me wisdom even there.  Purify me from my sins, and I will be clean;  wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.

You do not desire a sacrifice, or I would offer one.  You do not want a burnt offering.  The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit.  A broken and contrite heart, O God you will not ignore.

I pray for you daily; praying that you accept God’s great love for you and his plan for your life.

 Luv Ya!

8/1/12

Beloved–

After confession and repentance comes, have your way with me, Lord, so pray.

Father God, I submit myself to you for all the time you need to shape me for your purposes.  Thank you for your plan for me*.  Help me to love you more than the world**.  IJNIPA

I pray daily for you.

Luv Ya!

*Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know what 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.”   **1st John 2:15-16  Do not love the world nor the things in the world.  If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in him; because all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the vain glory of life, is not of the Father but is of the world.

8/8/12

Beloved–

… How sweet your words taste to me; they are sweeter than honey.  Your commandments give me understanding…Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path…Lord, accept my offering of praise, and teach me your regulations… Your laws are my treasure;     they are my heart’s delight.  I am determined to keep your decrees to the very end…You are my refuge and my shield; your word is my source of hope…Lord, sustain me as you promised, that I may live!  Do not let my hope be crushed… I tremble in fear of you; I stand in awe of your regulations…Please guarantee a blessing for m e     Psm 119: 103-123

O Lord I pray have mercy on me.  Heal me, or I sinned against you. Psm 41:4

I’m praying for you daily.

Luv Ya!

8/15/12 (done on Fri 8/17)

Beloved–

From the time I learned the lesson that God the father expects obedience as our only response; I adopted the the yes sir, no sir, what ever you say sir attitude.  Basically saying its not my choice but I know your plan is best, so I accept it.  (Jeremiah 29:11)

Now I believe my heavenly father is teaching me a new lesson.  Rather than saying I accept your choice over mine, I need to want his choice first. (2 Timothy 2:15-16)  This lesson is more difficult for me because I have definite opinions about most situations.  I have a solution oriented character (aka: a fixer) knowing that there is an answer to any given problem I just need to find it.

It all comes down to this: have I learned to say, “have your way with me Lord”  because the joy of the Lord is my strength?

I pray for you daily that you understand the need for obedience and you are learning to rejoice in his will.

Luv Ya!

8/22/12

Beloved–

Recently, two of my young grandchildren visited me for a “sleepover.”   I told them that I had recorded their favorite cartoon, which they could watch after their bath time.  While I was picking up tub toys, dirty clothes, and wet towels my grandson was showing his sister how to turn on the television and find the recorded cartoon; “all you need to do is just push this button,” he explained.

I could not quickly, reset the remote control, it was beyond me without the “detailed instruction manual.”   God tells us that He loves us and wants what is best for us.  He has provided us with a “detailed instruction manual” (the Bible).

On July first I began to follow a read-through-the-Bible-plan in one year.  The plan includes reading from both the Old Testament and New Testament each day; however, I could not get through the day without reading a Proverb each day.   A reading plan like this gives you peace of mind and heart because you learn just how great our heavenly Father is and how much he loves each one of us.  It has never added more than 15 minutes to my quiet time.

I pray for you daily that you just don’t push buttons but you follow the manual closely.

Luv Ya!

SUNDAY, August 26, 2012

8/25/12 was the ninth day of taking the lowest dose of Sinement (a dopamine medication).  The depression caused by this medication is unbearable; it is almost impossible to concentrate or to do anything, even the most rudimentary personal hygiene. Everything is magnified out of proportion.  I seek relief from constant crying and zoning by sleeping, but that too is not working.  There appears to be no remedy to the situation, yet I read my Bible and pray;

(Answer me when I call to you,  O God who declares me innocent.  Free me from my troubles.  Have mercy on me and hear my prayer psm 4:1  O Lord, hear me as I pray;   pay attention to my groaning.  Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God,  for I pray to no one but you. psm 5:1  O Lord, don’t rebuke me in your anger or discipline me in your rage.  Have compassion on me, Lord, for I am weak.  Heal me, Lord, for my bones are in agony.  I am sick at heart.   How long, O Lord, until you restore me? psm 6:1-3).

Does God allow pain and chaos to reign in our lives so that we can see eternity with him is better than the best on earth?  I know the Lord’s plan for my life is for my good and that all things (good and bad) work together for good.  If this then is your plan for me O Lord my God, I pray you hold my hand so that I can  bloom for you in the midst of this chaos.

8/29/12

Beloved–

The Lord God Almighty has promised that he will never leave or forsake me.  I know I must never get in a place that I feel alone, so I pray.

(Answer me when I call to you,  O God who declares me innocent.  Free me from my troubles.  Have mercy on me and hear my prayer psm 4:1  O Lord, hear me as I pray;   pay attention to my groaning.  Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God,  for I pray to no one but you. psm 5:1  O Lord, don’t rebuke me in your anger or discipline me in your rage.  Have compassion on me, Lord, for I am weak.  Heal me, Lord, for my bones are in agony.  I am sick at heart.   How long, O Lord, until you restore me? psm 6:1-3).

Does God allow pain and chaos to reign in our lives so that we can see eternity with him is better than the best on earth?  I know the Lord’s plan for my life is for my good and that all things (good and bad) work together for good.  If this then is your plan for me O Lord my God, I pray you hold my hand so that I can  bloom for you in the midst of this chaos.

I pray for you daily that you never feel alone and always feel the Lord’s presence.

Luv Ya!

9/5/12

Beloved–

The power of praise and prayer is undeniable.  For the last two years (with health issues) I have experienced that power.   There were times when (in my discomfort) the only prayer I could manage was, “have your way with me, Lord.” and “thank you Jesus!”   The only way I am able to praise the Lord with prayer (in all circumstances) is by staying connected with him by reading his Word daily.

I pray that, you too, can feel my peace of mind and heart by reading the Word daily and praying and praising the Lord God, your heavenly Father.

Luv Ya!

9/12/12

Beloved–

I know the power of praise and prayer is undeniable!  The solution to all my concerns comes in the knowledge that God Almighty is ALMIGHTY and my job is to trust in that knowledge.  The knowledge that the Lord willingly paid for my redemption also causes me to believe that he can be trusted with my cares.

Yet, how many times have I spent hours and even days attempting to find the door in the very next blank wall I hit.  With the developed habit of praising him for who he is and daily prayer and reading his word most of my blank walls tend develop openings just as soon as I stop searching for solutions.

Hint: be careful what you pray for; it is better to ask the Lord for his solution rather than a rubber stamp on your idea.  Believe me I know!

I pray daily for you, that you will trust the Lord with all your cares.

Luv Ya!

9/19/12

Beloved–

Part of my daily Bible reading for the last six months of 2012 is to read through the Old Testament.

The Lord our God is near to us whenever we call on him?  And what great nation has decrees and regulations as righteous and fair as this body of instructions that I am giving you today?  “But watch out! Be careful never to forget what you yourself have seen. Do not let these memories escape from your mind as long as you live! And be sure to pass them on to your children and grandchildren. Deuteronomy 4:7-9 (NLT)

As I read the above passage in  Deuteronomy, it made me see how much I have taken the Lord my God”s blessings’ for granted.  When I had children at home I constantly reminded them that the Lord loves us and enjoys our loving praise and worship.   Now that all of my children have homes and children of their own I have slacked off passing out the Good News!

The Israelites were told to always remember God’s laws even to write them on their doorposts.  So I am going to memorize God’s word and then ask God to show me where he wants me to share what I have learned.

I pray for you daily and that you will commit his word to memory so that you are prepared when the opportunity comes to share the Good News.

Luv Ya!

9/26/12

Beloved—

Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own.  Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track.  Don’t assume that you know it all.  Run to God! Run from evil!  Your body will glow with health, your very bones will vibrate with life!  Honor God with everything you own; give him the first and the best.  Your barns will burst, your wine vats will brim over.  But don’t, dear friend, resent God’s discipline; don’t sulk under his loving correction.  It’s the child he loves that God corrects; a father’s delight is behind all this. Proverbs 3:5-12 MSG

I pray for you daily and that you and I will always give God our first and best.

Luv Ya!

10/3/12

Beloved—

In chapter 2 of Proverbs I am urged to seek wisdom because

Wise choices will watch over you.

Understanding will keep you safe.

In chapter 3 of Proverbs I am urged to recognize God’s complete authority over me.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart;

Seek his will in all you do,  and he will

show you which path to take

52 years ago today I learned, that after all my careful planning and understanding that I always had to do the “right thing” even when I didn’t want to; my wisest choice was trust the Lord and praise him for his loving care.  52 years ago today I delivered a healthy baby boy who now has a beautiful daughter and three handsome sons of his own.

I pray for you every day and that you seek wisdom and learn to trust him by feeding on the Word.

Luv Ya!

10/10/12

Beloved–

Today I spoke to a friend who is trying to discern God’s will.  All three choices have as many good points as there are drawbacks.  Praise and prayer were my first thoughts.  But for what exactly?

I thought about my 4-year-old grandson who usually volunteers to pray before meals.  When he first started (before he was 3) praying he said. “Thank you Jesus for my family and the food, Amen”    Now, his prayers are more specific and fervent.  He thanks Jesus for all the people sitting around the table, for the activities just completed and for the activities that are going to happen when the meal is over, especially dessert.

Specific and fervent* prayer is what I think the Lord wants from me.  His word in the book of James tells me that he wants a close relationship with me; its OK if I want to vent or explore ideas with him.  Because he is my heavenly father, he wants what I want if its best for me.

..Yet you don’t have what you want because you don’t ask God for it. James 4:2nlt

I pray for you daily that God blesses you with a desire for a close relationship with him and that your prayers are specific and fervent.

Luv Ya!

*comes from the Latin root: to boil as in super enthusiastic

10/17/12

Beloved–

Memorizing scripture is very important! I memorized the twenty third Psalm as a sixth grader.

When I reached the end of my rope in my twenties the only way I knew to call out to God was by reciting the only Bible verse I knew by heart.   “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.”   But I did want…I wanted peace of mind and heart.  Subsequently, because God is gracious, I confessed that I was a sinner and asked Jesus into my heart.

I pray for you daily that you not only read the word daily but that you memorize scripture.

Luv Ya!

10/24/12

Beloved–

“So the battle against evil is not to constantly say “No, no, no. Bad, bad, bad.” There’s no power in that. The power of the flesh is coming at you, the power of the devil is coming at you, and you’re going to [muster] up your willpower and make that the victory? You’re not. You’re not. One thing will give you the victory: Faith is the victory that overcomes the world. And faith is a being satisfied in all that God is for us in Jesus Christ. You’ve got to stoke that engine every morning so that the evils that are clawing at you loose its fangs. You can’t have me, I’ve seen Jesus this morning. Lust, you can’t have me. Greed, you can’t have me. Fear of man, you can’t have me. Bitterness and anger, you can’t have me. I’ve seen Jesus this morning.” -John Piper

That’s the power…opening your eyes every morning with the knowledge that you can see Jesus!

I pray for you every day that you, through your daily reading of the Word, can say this morning and every morning I’ve seen Jesus!

Luv ya!

10/31/12

Beloved–

Memorizing scripture is very important!  It sustains you spiritually.

I had nourished my soul as a young girl by memorizing the 23rd Psalm; so that as a spiritually starved twenty-something woman I became a babe in Christ.

Memorizing the 34th Psalm showed me that I shouldn’t stay a babe but that I needed to grow in my faith.  And the only way to grow in faith is to read, listen and meditate on the Word of God!

I pray for you daily that you submit yourself to the Lord each day.

Luv Ya!

11/7/12

Beloved–

As I have said many times the power of praise and prayer is undeniable.  So, too is the power of praying that prayer using the very words of the godly inspired Word.

“For i know what plans I have for you,” declares the Lord. Jer 29:11  Heavenly Father, I praise and thank you for your plan for my life.

“Do not love the world nor the things in the world” 1Jn 2:15   I praise and thank you, Father God that you are helping me love you more than the things in this world.

O God you know how foolish I am; my sins cannot be hidden from you.” Ps 69:5  Lord Jesus, I praise and thank you that you willingly shed your blood on the cross to wash away my sins.

I pray for you every day that you read the Word and that it will saturate your heart as you learn how great God is!

Luv Ya!

11/14/12

Beloved–

As a new Christian I wanted to know what God had to say about everyday situations.  His Word (Psalm 23) had caused me to turn to him, so I reasoned that reading “the whole book” would be the best way to get answers.  Unaware that there were reading guides available to follow, I made one of my own.  Then I discovered that God had written a book of Proverbs with 31 chapters (one for each day of the month) right in the middle of the 66 books.  From that day to this day I have read a chapter based on the day’s date.

I made the decision to read through the Bible in a year; it took me 18 months because I got bogged down in Isaiah.   The next time I  tried it, I made it through in a year.  I continue to study the word using many different guides; but never have I stopped reading my daily Proverbs chapter; I learn something new each time.

I pray daily that you will fall in love with the Lord’s word.

Luv Ya!

11/21/12

Beloved–

Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. Rm 12:12nlt

What bothers you doesn’t bother me; and what bothers me doesn’t bother you.  So look around and rejoice that your problems are those that won’t overwhelm you.  Isn’t God great!!!  He knows just how far we can go without falling into despair.

I pray everyday for you to see your glass, not half empty nor half full, but full and overflowing.

Luv Ya!

                                                                                                 HAPPY THANKSGIVING

 11/28/12

Beloved–

…our only power and success come from God.  He is the one who has enabled us to represent his new covenant.   A covenant, not of written laws but of the Holy Spirit.   2 Cor 3:6   …as the spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him and reflect his glory even more.  2 Cor 3:18

As I began to feel the effects of the progression of my infirmity I prayed this prayer (I even wrote it down that I might remember to pray it daily).  “I praise and thank you for wisdom on how to be the person you want me to be; how you want me to represent you.”

Frequently, (usually every morning as I awake) I forget what I asked for; and I strive for the person I want to be instead of the person the Lord wants to represent him.

I pray for you daily that you know that the Lord loves you; that you want his plan for your life and actively seek it.

Luv Ya!

12/6/12

Beloved–

Approaching each day with the attitude of “YOU LORD not me” is the only way to have peace of mind and heart no matter how trying the day.  Inside you feel like you are in a whirlwind but outwardly you appear totally calm and in control to the world; people notice and comment.

Daily reading of the Word, daily praise and prayer, and memorizing scripture is what helped me get through the chaos that regularly occurred while raising my children.  The scripture that covered a multitude of broken dishes/windows, negative report card warnings, and protecting me from me is Psalm 34.  It begins, “I will praise God no matter what happens; I will constantly speak of his glories and grace.  I will boast of all his kindness to me; let all who are discouraged take heart…”.

I pray everyday for you to be overwhelmed with the desire to feed on the Word.  No matter happens, take heart!

Luv Ya!

12/12/12

Beloved–

At what I would describe as my first real life crisis as a young Christian, scripture prevented me from sinking into despair. From my point of view there was no possible solution to the crisis.  I had been praying and doing my daily reading but one problem after another kept occurring; I didn’t think I could physically survive.

It was the one and only time the Lord spoke to me directly when I randomly opened my Bible.  It opened in Isaiah, chapter 26.  Verse 3 starts with “God will keep in perfect peace all those whose thoughts are fixed on him…”

Ever since that day no matter what the situation from the driver who cut me off, to the loss of employment, to a child with cancer, to my present infirmity that memorized scripture always gives me peace of mind and heart.

I pray for you daily that God”s word will speak to your heart and that you too, will be comforted in your times of crisis.

Luv Ya!

12/19/12

Beloved–

Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice!*

How can I rejoice when my world is crumbling all around me?  Yet, I must!! I feel like giving up and falling into utter despair. My depression threatens to engulf me; I don’t have anymore tears. I desperately cry out, “rejoice, rejoice,” telling my heavenly Father I cannot go on.

The darkness has receded, my world didn’t end; I marvel at the patience and abundant love that the heavenly Father lavishes on me a sinner.  And so I shout to the Lord, “I rejoice in you my Savior!”  There is just no other way!

I pray for you each day and urge you not to worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.*

Luv Ya!

                                                                                              M E R R Y   C H R I S T M A S

*from Philippians chp. 4

12/26/13

Beloved–

How often over the last 40 New Years eve nights have I asked the Lord, “how can I give you glory in the coming year?”

Not to us, O Lord, not to us,  but to your name goes all the glory  for your unfailing love and faithfulness. All you who fear the Lord, trust the Lord!  He is your helper and your shield. He will bless those who fear the Lord,  both great and lowly. Psm 115

I have failed so often this past year to give you glory, Lord; yet that’s why we are here to give you glory!

My heart spent more time consumed with my own issues rather than than being broken for the lost.  I’ve spent more time on my comfort than time in the Word, more time worrying about things that didn’t really matter than time in prayer for those who don’t know they are lost.

Beloved, my prayer for you, as we end another year together, is that you will spend time feeding on the Word to know him better and more time in prayer praising him for who he is in the new year.

Luv Ya!

                                                                                                        H A P P Y  N E W  Y E A R

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