Youths oppress my people, women rule over them. O my people, your guides lead you astray; they turn you from the path. Isaiah 3:12
I saw this mentioned in an article a few days ago and for some reason it stuck in my mind. I can't remember which article or where it was and couldn't find it online. It may have been in a magazine.
The article had said that this was a prophecy and that it fit our time.
I looked it up and found some commentaries on it. There are different translations for some of the words. The word translated as "youths" in the version I used could also mean children or just immature people. The word translated as "women" could also be translated as "creditor".
Either way it does seem to fit what is happening in the modern world. At least in the United States. Many members of Congress seem a bit "immature" to me.
And then we have lots of families where the children to seem to be in charge. The kids do pretty much whatever they want and the adults just seem to go along.
The commentaries I read are : Collections, Bible Tools, MyJewishLearning, and another Bible Tools page on Amos 4:1 that has some explanation on the "women" bit.
They make for some interesting reading. What do you think about it?
Friday, December 30, 2011
Sunday, December 11, 2011
To The Man Who Pleases God - Wisdom
To the man who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness, but to the sinner he gives the task of gathering and storing up wealth to hand it over to the one who pleases God. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind. Ecclesiastes 2:26
I like this. I like the idea that all those super rich folks are simply doing Gods work by gathering all that wealth for other people.
And God giving such good gifts as wisdom and happiness to those who please him.
Seems like pleasing God is definitely the way to go. At least if you value wisdom.
I like this. I like the idea that all those super rich folks are simply doing Gods work by gathering all that wealth for other people.
And God giving such good gifts as wisdom and happiness to those who please him.
Seems like pleasing God is definitely the way to go. At least if you value wisdom.
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Shopping And Other Worldly Pursuits
Mrs. White over at Legacy Of Home reminded me in her latest post that worldly pursuits are not all that important.
She posted that she was not shopping on Black Friday but staying home and taking care of the house.
I think that is an excellent choice. Of course I don't actually like shopping. My mom and grandmother love going to stores. They often spent hours just walking through looking at things.
They usually ended up buying things they didn't really need too. That happens to me when I do that as well. I have to go in and get what I went for and leave. Otherwise I waste money.
Black Friday gets people way too competitive as well. That is not a good way to be. I don't want to get angry at people because they are in front of me and might get something I don't.
It is much better to stay home. Even if don't do any housework :p
She posted that she was not shopping on Black Friday but staying home and taking care of the house.
I think that is an excellent choice. Of course I don't actually like shopping. My mom and grandmother love going to stores. They often spent hours just walking through looking at things.
They usually ended up buying things they didn't really need too. That happens to me when I do that as well. I have to go in and get what I went for and leave. Otherwise I waste money.
Black Friday gets people way too competitive as well. That is not a good way to be. I don't want to get angry at people because they are in front of me and might get something I don't.
It is much better to stay home. Even if don't do any housework :p
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Whatever Is True, Whatever Is Noble
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is
right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if
anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things." Philippians 4:8
This is excellent advice. It is hard to do sometimes though. I get to worrying about something or wondering what someone meant by something they said and my mind goes off thinking about bad things.
That's when I have to get up and do something to distract me. Because it is very hard to change what's going on in my head without changing what I'm doing or where I am.
Doing housework can be good for this too. Sometimes that's the only reason my housework gets done! Which doesn't say much about my diligence...
This is excellent advice. It is hard to do sometimes though. I get to worrying about something or wondering what someone meant by something they said and my mind goes off thinking about bad things.
That's when I have to get up and do something to distract me. Because it is very hard to change what's going on in my head without changing what I'm doing or where I am.
Doing housework can be good for this too. Sometimes that's the only reason my housework gets done! Which doesn't say much about my diligence...
Monday, November 7, 2011
Joy Comes In The Morning Psalm 30:5
"For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but joy comes in the morning." Psalm 30:5
This is true. It is hard to remember when you are weeping though. It is good to be reminded that it doesn't last forever. Even grief has stages. The worst of it will pass.
No one will ever be forgotten but it won't hurt as much to think of them after a bit. You will be able to remember the funny things, the good things, the things that bring a smile instead of tears.
Sometimes it doesn't take too long...sometimes it takes years. And sometimes you think the bad times are done and then you see or hear or smell something and the weeping comes to visit again.
We just have to remember...we will see our loved ones again. It isn't a permanent parting. Not this time anyway. Morning will come...and with it comes Joy.
Lord haste the day!
This is true. It is hard to remember when you are weeping though. It is good to be reminded that it doesn't last forever. Even grief has stages. The worst of it will pass.
No one will ever be forgotten but it won't hurt as much to think of them after a bit. You will be able to remember the funny things, the good things, the things that bring a smile instead of tears.
Sometimes it doesn't take too long...sometimes it takes years. And sometimes you think the bad times are done and then you see or hear or smell something and the weeping comes to visit again.
We just have to remember...we will see our loved ones again. It isn't a permanent parting. Not this time anyway. Morning will come...and with it comes Joy.
Lord haste the day!
Saturday, October 29, 2011
It Is Not For A Man To Direct His Steps Jeremiah 10:23
"I know, O LORD, that a man's life is not his own; it is not for man to direct his steps." Jeremiah 10:23
This is part of a prayer in which Jeremiah asked to be corrected-but not with anger-because in anger God might reduce him to nothing.
I'm thinking that we all need correcting now and then. Some of us more often than others. And some only in certain areas. Some people have no problems with drinking or drugs or any of the 'big' vices but still have problems with 'smaller' things like gossip or eating too many sweets.
It is also hard to know sometimes exactly what God wants. Some things are easy...we know not to commit murder or adultery, and we know not to lie, and we know that stealing is bad.
It is the other things like just how many potato chips is too many? Is it gossip to tell my mother what my friends are up to? Just where does conversation turn into gossip? How much money is it ok to spend on things not actually 'needed' but only 'wanted'?
Which books are really really bad to read and which are ok? Of course pornography is definitely out and anything that incites to hatred but what about many of those young adult books that are so popular these days?
It is not easy to know. And sometimes that 'still small voice' is hard to hear. You have to actually stop and be still. I'm going to have to work on that. I need to listen.
This is part of a prayer in which Jeremiah asked to be corrected-but not with anger-because in anger God might reduce him to nothing.
I'm thinking that we all need correcting now and then. Some of us more often than others. And some only in certain areas. Some people have no problems with drinking or drugs or any of the 'big' vices but still have problems with 'smaller' things like gossip or eating too many sweets.
It is also hard to know sometimes exactly what God wants. Some things are easy...we know not to commit murder or adultery, and we know not to lie, and we know that stealing is bad.
It is the other things like just how many potato chips is too many? Is it gossip to tell my mother what my friends are up to? Just where does conversation turn into gossip? How much money is it ok to spend on things not actually 'needed' but only 'wanted'?
Which books are really really bad to read and which are ok? Of course pornography is definitely out and anything that incites to hatred but what about many of those young adult books that are so popular these days?
It is not easy to know. And sometimes that 'still small voice' is hard to hear. You have to actually stop and be still. I'm going to have to work on that. I need to listen.
Monday, October 24, 2011
My Grandmother Died October 18th
My grandmother died Tuesday Afternoon October 18th. She was 84 years old.
I had lived with her for at least half my life. While I was in school I spent weekends, holidays, and summers at her house. As soon as I graduated high school I moved in her house and never left...till I got married.
I miss her but am keeping in mind what Paul said in 1 Thessalonians 4:13 "Brothers we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope."
We have a sure and certain hope. We will see our loved ones again someday. God send the day be soon.
I had lived with her for at least half my life. While I was in school I spent weekends, holidays, and summers at her house. As soon as I graduated high school I moved in her house and never left...till I got married.
I miss her but am keeping in mind what Paul said in 1 Thessalonians 4:13 "Brothers we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope."
We have a sure and certain hope. We will see our loved ones again someday. God send the day be soon.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
According To Your Love Remember Me Psalm 25:7
Remember not the sins of my youth and my rebellious ways; according to your love remember me, for you are good, O Lord. Psalm 25:7
I was reminded of this by a song I remember from when I was little. Do Lord, Oh Do Lord, Oh Do Remember Me! I looked up the lyrics this morning and posted it on my lyrics and poems site.
I want to be remembered. But definitely not my rebellious youth. I was very rebellious and downright stupid sometimes. Foolish for sure about many things.
I would really hope that part would be forgotten. I have asked for forgiveness so I'm pretty sure it will be. Unless I forget something that should have been confessed...I expect God will point it out to me eventually if so.
It is a really good thing He loves us though. Otherwise we would be in deep deep trouble.
Something else to give thanks for!
I was reminded of this by a song I remember from when I was little. Do Lord, Oh Do Lord, Oh Do Remember Me! I looked up the lyrics this morning and posted it on my lyrics and poems site.
I want to be remembered. But definitely not my rebellious youth. I was very rebellious and downright stupid sometimes. Foolish for sure about many things.
I would really hope that part would be forgotten. I have asked for forgiveness so I'm pretty sure it will be. Unless I forget something that should have been confessed...I expect God will point it out to me eventually if so.
It is a really good thing He loves us though. Otherwise we would be in deep deep trouble.
Something else to give thanks for!
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Gods Creation Is Amazing
God created some truly amazing things!
I have been sick again this past week and feeling down. But then my husband hollered at me to come out and look at something on the porch. He had seen some frogs hiding in one of his roses. They were so cute!
My husband was so busy looking at them that he didn't even notice what else was lurking in the same area.
He nearly freaked out when he did see it. I had to look it up and show him pictures online before he would believe it wasn't dangerous too. It is just a garden spider. They build huge webs sometimes and you can walk right into them if you are not paying attention. They have pretty yellow markings.
My pictures still do not come out that well either. But you can see how easy it would be to just go past and not even notice these creatures. You have to look around and pay attention. The Lord made some wondrous things when he created this world.
And all for us! Isn't that amazing?
I felt much better after seeing them. So grateful for all the wonderful blessings. I need to be reminded...especially when I'm not feeling well.
I have been sick again this past week and feeling down. But then my husband hollered at me to come out and look at something on the porch. He had seen some frogs hiding in one of his roses. They were so cute!
My husband was so busy looking at them that he didn't even notice what else was lurking in the same area.
My pictures still do not come out that well either. But you can see how easy it would be to just go past and not even notice these creatures. You have to look around and pay attention. The Lord made some wondrous things when he created this world.
And all for us! Isn't that amazing?
I felt much better after seeing them. So grateful for all the wonderful blessings. I need to be reminded...especially when I'm not feeling well.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Do Not Love The World 1 John 2:15-17
"Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world--the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does--comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever." 1 John 2:15-17
I've been working on this one for a long time now. I'm not entirely sure how well I'm doing. I know improvement has been made...but still...there is more work to do on this.
This is difficult because you don't even notice half the time. You get so used to things like the computer and the tv and the telephone...and these days folks seem to think they can't live without a cell phone.
And of course there are other things like refrigerators, stoves, washer/dryers, and air conditioners that modern people are so used to. It has gotten to where people in the United States at least seem to think these things are REQUIRED....and that everyone is ENTITLED to them.
Then of course you have clothing and jewelry and makeup and all the personal items that commercials claim everyone needs to keep themselves smelling good and looking good. And we are told that if we don't have these thing no one will like us!
Then there are the causes...save the whales! save the homeless! save the environment! Save the trees! Lots of things to save. And all are good causes worth supporting. But not to the extent that we LOVE that cause more than God...because ultimately...we cannot even save ourselves...no way can we save the world. Only Jesus can do that. And he will. In his good time.
We just need to keep in mind that all we really NEED is God. Easy to say...hard to do. Working on it!
How are you doing with that?
I've been working on this one for a long time now. I'm not entirely sure how well I'm doing. I know improvement has been made...but still...there is more work to do on this.
This is difficult because you don't even notice half the time. You get so used to things like the computer and the tv and the telephone...and these days folks seem to think they can't live without a cell phone.
And of course there are other things like refrigerators, stoves, washer/dryers, and air conditioners that modern people are so used to. It has gotten to where people in the United States at least seem to think these things are REQUIRED....and that everyone is ENTITLED to them.
Then of course you have clothing and jewelry and makeup and all the personal items that commercials claim everyone needs to keep themselves smelling good and looking good. And we are told that if we don't have these thing no one will like us!
Then there are the causes...save the whales! save the homeless! save the environment! Save the trees! Lots of things to save. And all are good causes worth supporting. But not to the extent that we LOVE that cause more than God...because ultimately...we cannot even save ourselves...no way can we save the world. Only Jesus can do that. And he will. In his good time.
We just need to keep in mind that all we really NEED is God. Easy to say...hard to do. Working on it!
How are you doing with that?
Saturday, September 24, 2011
I Have Fought The Good Fight 2 Timothy 4:7-8
I want someday to be able to say this as Paul did:
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day--and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing." 2 Timothy 4:7-8
I don't think I'm that righteous as yet though. I still have a long way to go. I sort of wish that I had the kind of conversion that Paul did. But then again he was one of those counted as "righteous" before his conversion...and I most definitely was no such thing.
Of course their idea of righteousness was basically a pile of poop...but he had discipline for sure. And he knew the scriptures already. He was one of those who held to the letter of the law...even if he didn't quite manage the spirit. He had a lot going for him.
It wasn't enough. Which I guess evens things out a bit. All his so called "righteousness" did him no good till he met the Lord on the Damascus road and had his eyes opened. So I guess it really doesn't matter how fast your eyes are opened...how quickly you manage to change...only that you do see, do change.
I'm working on it. As for the longing for his appearing...that I do. The world is in need of his return already...and the need is only going to get worse.
Lord haste the day!
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day--and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing." 2 Timothy 4:7-8
I don't think I'm that righteous as yet though. I still have a long way to go. I sort of wish that I had the kind of conversion that Paul did. But then again he was one of those counted as "righteous" before his conversion...and I most definitely was no such thing.
Of course their idea of righteousness was basically a pile of poop...but he had discipline for sure. And he knew the scriptures already. He was one of those who held to the letter of the law...even if he didn't quite manage the spirit. He had a lot going for him.
It wasn't enough. Which I guess evens things out a bit. All his so called "righteousness" did him no good till he met the Lord on the Damascus road and had his eyes opened. So I guess it really doesn't matter how fast your eyes are opened...how quickly you manage to change...only that you do see, do change.
I'm working on it. As for the longing for his appearing...that I do. The world is in need of his return already...and the need is only going to get worse.
Lord haste the day!
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Mans Days Are Determined Job 14:5
"Man's days are determined; you have decreed the number of his months and have set limits he cannot exceed." Job 14:5
"Your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be." Psalm 139:16
"Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Psalm 90:12
"Show me, O LORD, my life's end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting is my life." Psalm 39:4
My cousin was in an auto accident this past Thursday. She was on the way to visit her daughters grave. Her daughter died in an auto accident exactly 19 years ago Thursday. Her daughter was 5 years old.
The accident took place not far from where her daughter died. And old man pulled out in front of her and she hit him head on. The old man died.
Remember that only God knows the number of your days. Or your families. Or friends. This could be their last day to live.
Cherish your children and other family members. You never know what might happen. Especially these days.
But don't get too freaked out either. Remember you will see them all again in the resurrection.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
We Deceive Ourselves 1 John 1:8-10
"If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives." 1 John 1:8-10
I like this. That everyone has sinned. Even the most ardent church goer, even the person who reads the bible constantly and can tell you exactly what it says about any situation, ALL have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
Anyone who claims they are without sin is deceiving themselves and maybe trying to deceive everyone else. It doesn't work very well and doesn't do them any good.
If we confess our sins though...he is faithful and JUST to forgive us our sins. This is really neat...we just have to stop trying to hide that we are not perfect, that we mess up, that we sin, which God already knows of course...and so does everyone else. We just have to admit it...confess it and he will forgive us.
And not only forgive...but CLEANSE us. Cleanse us of all unrighteousness. That won't make us permanently clean though...so long as we keep sinning we will need to be forgiven and cleansed. For most of us that will be true for the rest of our lives or until Jesus returns.
Lord haste the day. We need it.
I like this. That everyone has sinned. Even the most ardent church goer, even the person who reads the bible constantly and can tell you exactly what it says about any situation, ALL have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
Anyone who claims they are without sin is deceiving themselves and maybe trying to deceive everyone else. It doesn't work very well and doesn't do them any good.
If we confess our sins though...he is faithful and JUST to forgive us our sins. This is really neat...we just have to stop trying to hide that we are not perfect, that we mess up, that we sin, which God already knows of course...and so does everyone else. We just have to admit it...confess it and he will forgive us.
And not only forgive...but CLEANSE us. Cleanse us of all unrighteousness. That won't make us permanently clean though...so long as we keep sinning we will need to be forgiven and cleansed. For most of us that will be true for the rest of our lives or until Jesus returns.
Lord haste the day. We need it.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
As A Man Sows, So Shall He Reap
"Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows." Galations 6:7
I have been thinking about this a lot lately. I read something about it the other day and it has been on my mind off an on since then.
You might think it isn't really accurate. We see a lot of people apparently getting away with sowing some bad things. Celebrities and politicians seem to sow a great many "wild oats" and do not appear to be reaping what you and I think they deserve.
We have seen a lot of stories lately about corrupt corporate officials too. Most of them don't seem to be having many "bad" consequences. Some apparently get away with illegal and unethical behaviors without any consequences at all.
We can rest assured however that even if we can't see it, even if the person involved thinks he got away with it...there will be consequences. He will reap what he sowed eventually. If not in this life...then at the judgement.
Most of use do reap one way or another in this life. I smoked for almost 30 years and am now reaping the harvest of that. I sowed a few "wild oats" of my own back in my younger days too. The harvest from those wasn't anything I would have chosen either.
Lately I have been sowing a bit of impatience and irritation. I don't even want to know what the harvest of that is going to be like. I need to work on my planting for sure. I want to sow a bit more mercy, patience, kindness, generosity, and love. I have a feeling I may be in desperate need of a harvest of such things before too much longer.
I had better put in a good crop. How has your sowing been going lately?
I have been thinking about this a lot lately. I read something about it the other day and it has been on my mind off an on since then.
You might think it isn't really accurate. We see a lot of people apparently getting away with sowing some bad things. Celebrities and politicians seem to sow a great many "wild oats" and do not appear to be reaping what you and I think they deserve.
We have seen a lot of stories lately about corrupt corporate officials too. Most of them don't seem to be having many "bad" consequences. Some apparently get away with illegal and unethical behaviors without any consequences at all.
We can rest assured however that even if we can't see it, even if the person involved thinks he got away with it...there will be consequences. He will reap what he sowed eventually. If not in this life...then at the judgement.
Most of use do reap one way or another in this life. I smoked for almost 30 years and am now reaping the harvest of that. I sowed a few "wild oats" of my own back in my younger days too. The harvest from those wasn't anything I would have chosen either.
Lately I have been sowing a bit of impatience and irritation. I don't even want to know what the harvest of that is going to be like. I need to work on my planting for sure. I want to sow a bit more mercy, patience, kindness, generosity, and love. I have a feeling I may be in desperate need of a harvest of such things before too much longer.
I had better put in a good crop. How has your sowing been going lately?
Saturday, August 27, 2011
In Need Of Prayers
I am in need of prayers right now. Both for me and for my family. Especially my step-son. He is staying with us right now. Sleeping on my living room floor.
I am in need of much patience and guidance on how to deal with him. He needs to get off drugs and stay off them. We are trying to get him in a treatment program but I'm not sure he will actually go.
So will you all say a prayer or three for us?
Thank you much!
I am in need of much patience and guidance on how to deal with him. He needs to get off drugs and stay off them. We are trying to get him in a treatment program but I'm not sure he will actually go.
So will you all say a prayer or three for us?
Thank you much!
Saturday, August 20, 2011
A Time Is Coming-John 5:25
"I tell you the truth, a time is coming and has now come when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and those who hear will live." John 5:25
I love this verse. It is such a wonderful promise.
There are other verses that start out with the phrase "I tell you the truth, a time is coming and has now come.."
One such talks about worshiping in spirit and truth. Another says "you will be scattered" John 4:23 John 16:32
Another says: "For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths." 2 Timothy 4:3
"But the one who endures to the end will be saved." Matthew 24:13
Something to look forward to! Just have to be sure not to let my ears get control of me. Not such an easy thing to do...
I love this verse. It is such a wonderful promise.
There are other verses that start out with the phrase "I tell you the truth, a time is coming and has now come.."
One such talks about worshiping in spirit and truth. Another says "you will be scattered" John 4:23 John 16:32
Another says: "For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths." 2 Timothy 4:3
"But the one who endures to the end will be saved." Matthew 24:13
Something to look forward to! Just have to be sure not to let my ears get control of me. Not such an easy thing to do...
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Set Your Mind On Things Above
"Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God." Col 3:1-3
I need to work on this right now especially. I'm having some problems with family right now and have a tendency to get upset with the situation. Keeping my mind on things above would be the best thing to do. Then I won't get all upset over things below.
It is much easier to say than to do though. Please pray for me. I'm going to need all the help I can get in the next week or so.
I need to work on this right now especially. I'm having some problems with family right now and have a tendency to get upset with the situation. Keeping my mind on things above would be the best thing to do. Then I won't get all upset over things below.
It is much easier to say than to do though. Please pray for me. I'm going to need all the help I can get in the next week or so.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
For Such A Time As This Esther 4:14
"For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?" Esther 4:14 NIV
I love this story. Esther became queen of Persia. Then when the Jews were going to be killed. She was there and able to speak to the king and save them.
She risked her life to do that. As it says in the verse she could have "remained silent" and God would surely have delivered the Jews some other way. But it is possible that God had her put in that position just for "such a time as this". That may have been the greatest purpose of her life.
And us? I have wondered myself exactly what I'm doing here. Why? Why did I not go somewhere else? Why did I not end up with government job? Why did I not marry any of those men I dated years ago? I could have done so. I could have had a dozen children by now If I had gone that route. Why did I not end up in a city?
Why did I end up in this place at this time with these people doing the things I'm doing now? I have no idea. Other than the fact that someone needed me to be here at this time...
Maybe that was the only purpose. Maybe that is what I was made for. Then again...there may be more to come. Perhaps my "such a time as this" has not come yet.
I am certain that there is a purpose. For me. And for you. Even if you never know for sure what that purpose is...you can be sure there is a purpose. All our lives till now have been leading us, preparing us, for "such a time as this".
I love this story. Esther became queen of Persia. Then when the Jews were going to be killed. She was there and able to speak to the king and save them.
She risked her life to do that. As it says in the verse she could have "remained silent" and God would surely have delivered the Jews some other way. But it is possible that God had her put in that position just for "such a time as this". That may have been the greatest purpose of her life.
And us? I have wondered myself exactly what I'm doing here. Why? Why did I not go somewhere else? Why did I not end up with government job? Why did I not marry any of those men I dated years ago? I could have done so. I could have had a dozen children by now If I had gone that route. Why did I not end up in a city?
Why did I end up in this place at this time with these people doing the things I'm doing now? I have no idea. Other than the fact that someone needed me to be here at this time...
Maybe that was the only purpose. Maybe that is what I was made for. Then again...there may be more to come. Perhaps my "such a time as this" has not come yet.
I am certain that there is a purpose. For me. And for you. Even if you never know for sure what that purpose is...you can be sure there is a purpose. All our lives till now have been leading us, preparing us, for "such a time as this".
Saturday, July 30, 2011
The Father Gives Really Good Gifts
I got a wonderful gift yesterday. A lovely rocking chair.
I have wanted a rocking chair for a while. My mom has a couple of them on her porch and they are great to sit in and enjoy the breezes. Lowes and several other stores have rocking chairs just inside the doors. The rocking chairs they have are painted white or black. They costs about 100 dollars. The cost is what kept me from buying one before. I'm really glad I didn't get one of those now.
My brother-in-law got this one somewhere and had it sitting on the porch of his restaurant. My husband knew I liked it and managed to get it for me(with Gods help). And we didn't have to pay a $100 bucks for it. This one is also much better made than the ones they have in the stores. I think it must have been made by a craftsman and not by a factory. It is made of heavy thick wood and stained a lovely golden color. I like it much better than the ones in the stores as well.
So remember if sometimes you don't get what you think you want...maybe you are going to get something better later. And even if you don't seem to be getting anything right now...God has wonderful plans for you. In his time.
"If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!" Matthew 7:11
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
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| My Rocking Chair. |
I have wanted a rocking chair for a while. My mom has a couple of them on her porch and they are great to sit in and enjoy the breezes. Lowes and several other stores have rocking chairs just inside the doors. The rocking chairs they have are painted white or black. They costs about 100 dollars. The cost is what kept me from buying one before. I'm really glad I didn't get one of those now.
My brother-in-law got this one somewhere and had it sitting on the porch of his restaurant. My husband knew I liked it and managed to get it for me(with Gods help). And we didn't have to pay a $100 bucks for it. This one is also much better made than the ones they have in the stores. I think it must have been made by a craftsman and not by a factory. It is made of heavy thick wood and stained a lovely golden color. I like it much better than the ones in the stores as well.
So remember if sometimes you don't get what you think you want...maybe you are going to get something better later. And even if you don't seem to be getting anything right now...God has wonderful plans for you. In his time.
"If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!" Matthew 7:11
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
Saturday, July 23, 2011
"Do Not Be Amazed At This" John 5:28-30
"Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice and come out--those who have done good will rise to live, and those who have done evil will rise to be condemned. By myself I can do nothing; I judge only as I hear, and my judgement is just, for I seek not to please myself but him who sent me." John 28-30
I really like this. All the passages that speak of the resurrection. People these days seem to have forgotten all about this. Most of the church services these days don't mention it. There are other passages that deal with the dead rising. The "dry bones" the "sea giving up the dead in it". I like those.
And he says his judgment is just, because he seeks to please God and not to please himself. That would seem to mean that anyone who seeks to please God instead of themselves could have judgement that is Just. That would be a wonderful thing. There doesn't seem to be much all that much good judgement in the world these days. We could definitely use it.
Let us hope Jesus brings back his just judgment soon.
I really like this. All the passages that speak of the resurrection. People these days seem to have forgotten all about this. Most of the church services these days don't mention it. There are other passages that deal with the dead rising. The "dry bones" the "sea giving up the dead in it". I like those.
And he says his judgment is just, because he seeks to please God and not to please himself. That would seem to mean that anyone who seeks to please God instead of themselves could have judgement that is Just. That would be a wonderful thing. There doesn't seem to be much all that much good judgement in the world these days. We could definitely use it.
Let us hope Jesus brings back his just judgment soon.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
The Radiance of God's Glory
"The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word." Hebrews 1:3
This is good to remember. That Jesus is the exact representation of God's being, and that he sustains all things. Everything exists because he sustains it. That includes you and me and everyone else. If he should decide to stop sustaining us...we will all drop dead immediately.
So every second of life, every breath we take, is a gift. A gift for which we should be profoundly grateful. I am glad to be alive this day. How about you?
This is good to remember. That Jesus is the exact representation of God's being, and that he sustains all things. Everything exists because he sustains it. That includes you and me and everyone else. If he should decide to stop sustaining us...we will all drop dead immediately.
So every second of life, every breath we take, is a gift. A gift for which we should be profoundly grateful. I am glad to be alive this day. How about you?
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Let All Who Take Refuge In You Be Glad
"But let all who take refuge in you be glad;
let them ever sing for joy.
Spread your protection over them,
that those who love your name may rejoice in you.
For surely, O Lord, you bless the righteous;
you surround them with your favor as with a shield." Psalm 5:11-12
I love this. Especially the bit about singing for joy. Gods children are supposed to happy and joyful. And peaceful.
I have never understood why so many believe that to be a Christian you have to be solemn and joyless.
You can even dance. David did. I'm not sure I'm up for dancing...but singing...definitely! Old songs...maybe even a "new song".
let them ever sing for joy.
Spread your protection over them,
that those who love your name may rejoice in you.
For surely, O Lord, you bless the righteous;
you surround them with your favor as with a shield." Psalm 5:11-12
I love this. Especially the bit about singing for joy. Gods children are supposed to happy and joyful. And peaceful.
I have never understood why so many believe that to be a Christian you have to be solemn and joyless.
You can even dance. David did. I'm not sure I'm up for dancing...but singing...definitely! Old songs...maybe even a "new song".
Saturday, July 2, 2011
"Consider The Lilies of The Field"
"And why take you thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say to you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these." Matthew 6:28-29
Only one of those is a lily it's true. All of them are beautifully arrayed, however and I think they all fit the spirit of the quote.
"If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?" Mathew 6:30
He has clothed them wonderfully well hasn't he? And the trees too. I love the way trees look when they are all dressed up. And they make a lovely shade for sitting in.
"So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of it's own." Matthew 6:31-34
I really like this. It means that if you are seeking "first" the kingdom, then you really don't have much to worry about. The problem is figuring out exactly what it means to seek "first" the kingdom. I used to think this meant that you had to be a missionary or a Nun or something similar.
But Paul lists a lot of different callings. And he might not have put everything possible in that list. So there could be many things a person is called to do. Doing your best and being willing to do whatever God wants...I think that is the point.
Not worrying though...that is indeed hard. I catch myself worrying and sometimes can't seem to stop no matter how stupid I know it is. I guess that is something that takes practice too. I'm working on it. How about you? Do you worry? How do you stop?
"If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?" Mathew 6:30
He has clothed them wonderfully well hasn't he? And the trees too. I love the way trees look when they are all dressed up. And they make a lovely shade for sitting in.
"So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of it's own." Matthew 6:31-34
I really like this. It means that if you are seeking "first" the kingdom, then you really don't have much to worry about. The problem is figuring out exactly what it means to seek "first" the kingdom. I used to think this meant that you had to be a missionary or a Nun or something similar.
But Paul lists a lot of different callings. And he might not have put everything possible in that list. So there could be many things a person is called to do. Doing your best and being willing to do whatever God wants...I think that is the point.
Not worrying though...that is indeed hard. I catch myself worrying and sometimes can't seem to stop no matter how stupid I know it is. I guess that is something that takes practice too. I'm working on it. How about you? Do you worry? How do you stop?
Saturday, June 25, 2011
The Holy Spirit Will Teach You
"For the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say." Luke 12:12
I was reading in Acts and chapter 13 verse 4 caught my attention. It says "The two of them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus."
The idea of them being sent on their way by the Holy Spirit was what interested me. I had sort of known that the Holy Spirit guides and I have read this scripture before but it never quite sank in. Later on too the Holy Spirit kept them from preaching the word in the province of Asia - Acts 16:6.
So I did some research. The Holy Spirit does a lot of things. If you let it.
It Teaches:
Luke 12:12 "For the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say."
It Reveals:
Luke 2:26 "It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Christ."
John 16:13 "But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come."
It Leads:
Luke 4:1 "Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordon and was led by the spirit in the desert."
It Sends:
Acts 13:4 "The two of them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus."
It Gives:
1 Corinthians 12:7 "Now to each one the manifestation of the spirit is given for the common good."
Heb 2:4 "God also testified to it by signs, wonders and various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will."
It Frees:
2 Corinthians 3:16-18 "But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom."
It Grows (fruit of the Spirit):
Galatians 5:22-23 "But the fruit of the Spirit is Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control. Against such things there is no law."
It Helps:
Romans 8:26 "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express."
I can tell you right now that the Fruit of the Spirit need some serious cultivation in me. Right now they are sort of small and puckered. Some water(spirit), fertilizer(scripture), and attention(study,practice)...then maybe they will grow into nice big delicious looking fruit. The idea of a really nice well kept orchard appeals to me. I'll work on that.
Did I leave anything out? Miss something? Let me know--help is always appreciated!
I was reading in Acts and chapter 13 verse 4 caught my attention. It says "The two of them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus."
The idea of them being sent on their way by the Holy Spirit was what interested me. I had sort of known that the Holy Spirit guides and I have read this scripture before but it never quite sank in. Later on too the Holy Spirit kept them from preaching the word in the province of Asia - Acts 16:6.
So I did some research. The Holy Spirit does a lot of things. If you let it.
It Teaches:
Luke 12:12 "For the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say."
It Reveals:
Luke 2:26 "It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Christ."
John 16:13 "But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come."
It Leads:
Luke 4:1 "Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordon and was led by the spirit in the desert."
It Sends:
Acts 13:4 "The two of them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus."
It Gives:
1 Corinthians 12:7 "Now to each one the manifestation of the spirit is given for the common good."
Heb 2:4 "God also testified to it by signs, wonders and various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will."
It Frees:
2 Corinthians 3:16-18 "But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom."
It Grows (fruit of the Spirit):
Galatians 5:22-23 "But the fruit of the Spirit is Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control. Against such things there is no law."
It Helps:
Romans 8:26 "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express."
I can tell you right now that the Fruit of the Spirit need some serious cultivation in me. Right now they are sort of small and puckered. Some water(spirit), fertilizer(scripture), and attention(study,practice)...then maybe they will grow into nice big delicious looking fruit. The idea of a really nice well kept orchard appeals to me. I'll work on that.
Did I leave anything out? Miss something? Let me know--help is always appreciated!
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Colossians 3:16 "with gratitude in your hearts"
Colossians 3:16 says "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God." NIV
I like this. The whole thing but especially the part about gratitude in your hearts to god. Other translations say "thankfulness." One says "grace." It basically just means to be thankful always.
The part about letting the word of Christ dwell in you richly is something that we all need to remember to do. Even if you can't read the bible for some reason you can think on it. Keep it in your heart. (Deut 6:5) And that will lead to gratitude also. This means of course that you have to know it...at least in general. But memorizing is a good thing too. This I definitely need to do more of.
I like this. The whole thing but especially the part about gratitude in your hearts to god. Other translations say "thankfulness." One says "grace." It basically just means to be thankful always.
The part about letting the word of Christ dwell in you richly is something that we all need to remember to do. Even if you can't read the bible for some reason you can think on it. Keep it in your heart. (Deut 6:5) And that will lead to gratitude also. This means of course that you have to know it...at least in general. But memorizing is a good thing too. This I definitely need to do more of.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
The Tenth Commandment- You Shall Not Covet
The tenth commandment says "You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor." Exodus 20:17
This one is dealing with attitudes. The state of ones heart and mind. The very feeling of wanting something specific that belongs to your neighbor is warned against. Probably because feelings and thoughts lead to actions. But even if they don't lead anywhere you are to guard against coveting what belongs to your neighbor.
This doesn't mean you can't want something like what your neighbor has. If your neighbor has a brand new fancy car and you admire it and decide you want to get one for yourself...there may be nothing wrong with that at all. If you are envious, or resentful that your neighbor has something you do not...then that could be a problem.
This seems to mostly deal with specifics. Your neighbors wife...that specific woman. Coveting her might lead to adultery or as happened to David...murder. Both have a death sentence attached. To want a wife of your own because you see how happy your neighbors marriage is...that is allowable. To want your neighbors donkey, or his horse, or his car...that might lead to stealing. To want to get one of your own that is similar to his is OK.
We are to be ourselves. To find our own place. Our own calling. Our own things. Not to take over someone elses. This may take a lifetime to learn. It is something we should strive for.
References : St. John in the Wilderness
The Mechanics of Faith
WikiPedia-You Shall Not Covet
This one is dealing with attitudes. The state of ones heart and mind. The very feeling of wanting something specific that belongs to your neighbor is warned against. Probably because feelings and thoughts lead to actions. But even if they don't lead anywhere you are to guard against coveting what belongs to your neighbor.
This doesn't mean you can't want something like what your neighbor has. If your neighbor has a brand new fancy car and you admire it and decide you want to get one for yourself...there may be nothing wrong with that at all. If you are envious, or resentful that your neighbor has something you do not...then that could be a problem.
This seems to mostly deal with specifics. Your neighbors wife...that specific woman. Coveting her might lead to adultery or as happened to David...murder. Both have a death sentence attached. To want a wife of your own because you see how happy your neighbors marriage is...that is allowable. To want your neighbors donkey, or his horse, or his car...that might lead to stealing. To want to get one of your own that is similar to his is OK.
We are to be ourselves. To find our own place. Our own calling. Our own things. Not to take over someone elses. This may take a lifetime to learn. It is something we should strive for.
References : St. John in the Wilderness
The Mechanics of Faith
WikiPedia-You Shall Not Covet
Saturday, June 11, 2011
The Ninth Commandment-You Shall Not Give False Testimony
The ninth commandment says "You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor." Exodus 20:16
The word translated as neighbor here can actually mean just about anyone. So basically it is saying to tell the truth about other people. Don't go around telling lies about other people. Especially if you would gain something by doing so. This includes both public speaking, as in a court of law, and private, as in speaking to your best friend in your own kitchen.
There are several reasons for this commandment. One is that Gods people were to reflect his character. God is completely honest. Therefore his people should be honest. Another reason is that bearing false witness against a person, even just gossiping about him, was and is, very hurtful to that person. It can harm him in many ways such as damaging his reputation, hurting his business, or just hurting his feelings. Gods people were commanded to love their neighbors. Hurting someone is not loving. False witness was also very destructive to society as a whole. If people can not trust the courts and do not believe that justice will be done then law and order tends break down. This causes suffering for everyone.
Jesus also said to love your enemy as well as your neighbor. So this means you are not even to tell lies about your worst enemy. Which is extremely hard to do. Especially if you are really angry at the person. Remember, the new testament also says to be angry but do not sin. Ephesians 4:26
Another post I read cited some times in the old testament when telling lies seemed to be ok. He made the point that it is hurting others and the expectation of honesty that matter. I'm not sure if that is entirely correct or not but there are some good points in that post.
I think this is something that needs more consideration on my part. I need to make sure that I'm not saying harmful things. Unless of course they are true! Maybe.
References : Got Questions?org
Micheal Williams-Master of None
The word translated as neighbor here can actually mean just about anyone. So basically it is saying to tell the truth about other people. Don't go around telling lies about other people. Especially if you would gain something by doing so. This includes both public speaking, as in a court of law, and private, as in speaking to your best friend in your own kitchen.
There are several reasons for this commandment. One is that Gods people were to reflect his character. God is completely honest. Therefore his people should be honest. Another reason is that bearing false witness against a person, even just gossiping about him, was and is, very hurtful to that person. It can harm him in many ways such as damaging his reputation, hurting his business, or just hurting his feelings. Gods people were commanded to love their neighbors. Hurting someone is not loving. False witness was also very destructive to society as a whole. If people can not trust the courts and do not believe that justice will be done then law and order tends break down. This causes suffering for everyone.
Jesus also said to love your enemy as well as your neighbor. So this means you are not even to tell lies about your worst enemy. Which is extremely hard to do. Especially if you are really angry at the person. Remember, the new testament also says to be angry but do not sin. Ephesians 4:26
Another post I read cited some times in the old testament when telling lies seemed to be ok. He made the point that it is hurting others and the expectation of honesty that matter. I'm not sure if that is entirely correct or not but there are some good points in that post.
I think this is something that needs more consideration on my part. I need to make sure that I'm not saying harmful things. Unless of course they are true! Maybe.
References : Got Questions?org
Micheal Williams-Master of None
Saturday, June 4, 2011
The Eighth Commandment - You Shall Not Steal
The eighth commandment says : You Shall Not Steal. I have been thinking about this and reading some online sermons, then thinking some more.
One of the online bible studies by Jim Davis makes the point that everyone has stolen something at some time in their lives. Therefore we are all thieves. He lists many ways that we steal. Some of them are things that never entered my mind. There is also a long list of the excuses we make for this. He says it much better than I can so You should go read it here.
There is another good bible study at St. John in the Wilderness. They make the point that ownership of anything is a gift from God. Stealing is not only wronging the person stolen from but God himself. And stealing also implies that one does not trust God.
This one is hard. These days there are so many ways to steal and people don't really think anything of it. Just about everyone I know tries not to have to pay any taxes. That could be stealing. Finding something of value and not returning it is stealing. Going to work and goofing off...but still accepting your pay...that is stealing. Cheating on exams to get a grade you don't deserve...is that stealing? According to one pastor M.G. Blankenship "the greatest theft of all is an unrepentant, unsurrendered life!"
This one I'm going to have to work on. And think about a lot more. I don't like thinking of myself as a thief.
One of the online bible studies by Jim Davis makes the point that everyone has stolen something at some time in their lives. Therefore we are all thieves. He lists many ways that we steal. Some of them are things that never entered my mind. There is also a long list of the excuses we make for this. He says it much better than I can so You should go read it here.
There is another good bible study at St. John in the Wilderness. They make the point that ownership of anything is a gift from God. Stealing is not only wronging the person stolen from but God himself. And stealing also implies that one does not trust God.
This one is hard. These days there are so many ways to steal and people don't really think anything of it. Just about everyone I know tries not to have to pay any taxes. That could be stealing. Finding something of value and not returning it is stealing. Going to work and goofing off...but still accepting your pay...that is stealing. Cheating on exams to get a grade you don't deserve...is that stealing? According to one pastor M.G. Blankenship "the greatest theft of all is an unrepentant, unsurrendered life!"
This one I'm going to have to work on. And think about a lot more. I don't like thinking of myself as a thief.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
The Seventh Commandment
The seventh commandment says : "You shall not commit adultery". Exodus 20:14
Adultery is sexual relations in which at least one of the participants is married.
So if you are married and have sexual relations with someone not married...you have committed adultery.
If you are not married and have sexual relations with someone who is married...you have committed adultery.
According to Jesus in Matthew 5:31-32 a divorced person who has sexual relations or who remarries may be committing adultery. That is one of the reasons he said you should not divorce.
The old testament penalty for adultery was death...for both parties!
Fornication on the other hand happens between two unmarried people and the penalty was...marriage.
There are several other places where adultery is mentioned in the Bible.
Such as Proverbs 6:32-33 where it says : "But a man who commits adultery lacks judgment; whoever does so destroys himself. Blows and disgrace are his lot, and his shame will never be wiped away."
Jesus affirmed the commandment against adultery and also extended it when he said ""You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart." Mathew 5:27-28
"Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral." Hebrews 13:4
Adulterers are also listed in 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 as one of the types of people who would not inherit the kingdom of God.
Besides all that...with all the diseases out there these days it is very likely that you will end up with one of them. If you get a disease and give it to your spouse...that will most likely be the end of your marriage. If it is a deadly disease...then you could also be considered a murderer.
This is one temptation that should be resisted at all costs!
Adultery is sexual relations in which at least one of the participants is married.
So if you are married and have sexual relations with someone not married...you have committed adultery.
If you are not married and have sexual relations with someone who is married...you have committed adultery.
According to Jesus in Matthew 5:31-32 a divorced person who has sexual relations or who remarries may be committing adultery. That is one of the reasons he said you should not divorce.
The old testament penalty for adultery was death...for both parties!
Fornication on the other hand happens between two unmarried people and the penalty was...marriage.
There are several other places where adultery is mentioned in the Bible.
Such as Proverbs 6:32-33 where it says : "But a man who commits adultery lacks judgment; whoever does so destroys himself. Blows and disgrace are his lot, and his shame will never be wiped away."
Jesus affirmed the commandment against adultery and also extended it when he said ""You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart." Mathew 5:27-28
"Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral." Hebrews 13:4
Adulterers are also listed in 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 as one of the types of people who would not inherit the kingdom of God.
Besides all that...with all the diseases out there these days it is very likely that you will end up with one of them. If you get a disease and give it to your spouse...that will most likely be the end of your marriage. If it is a deadly disease...then you could also be considered a murderer.
This is one temptation that should be resisted at all costs!
Saturday, May 21, 2011
The Sixth Commandment
The sixth commandment says "You shall not murder." Exodus 20:13
There is a distinction made between intentional and accidental killings. It is only the intentional killing that calls for the death penalty. Exodus 21 says that being careless with something dangerous(a bull) that causes the death of a man calls for the death penalty.
Jesus also said in Mathew 5:21-26 that being angry is cause for judgment. He says to reconcile with your brother before making an offering to God. And to settle matters quickly if you are taken to court.
1John 3:15 Says that "Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him."
Jesus also said to love your enemies. Killing someone isn't very loving.
Pray for them. And let God take care of it. He can do a better job than we can.
There is a distinction made between intentional and accidental killings. It is only the intentional killing that calls for the death penalty. Exodus 21 says that being careless with something dangerous(a bull) that causes the death of a man calls for the death penalty.
Jesus also said in Mathew 5:21-26 that being angry is cause for judgment. He says to reconcile with your brother before making an offering to God. And to settle matters quickly if you are taken to court.
1John 3:15 Says that "Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him."
Jesus also said to love your enemies. Killing someone isn't very loving.
Pray for them. And let God take care of it. He can do a better job than we can.
Friday, May 13, 2011
The Fifth Commandment
"Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you." Exodus 20:12
"Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God has commanded you , so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the Lord your God is giving you." Deuteronomy 5:16
This is the first commandment with a promise. The promise is that "it may go well with you in the land the Lord your God is giving you" and that you may live a long life. Both excellent promises. Most people would like to live a long time and have things go well with them. So there is some incentive for this one other than simply pleasing God.
How does one "honor" their parents though? It means to love, reverence, obey, and assist. This doesn't always mean to do everything the parent says because if they tell you to disobey God then you should not obey them. God still comes first.
This one is probably very hard for many people. Those with abusive parents especially. I was blessed with some really good parents myself so I don't really have much trouble with this one. Not that I know of offhand anyway...perhaps I should ask my mother. Her view might be different. Then again...I best be sure I'm ready to hear the truth first...
"Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God has commanded you , so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the Lord your God is giving you." Deuteronomy 5:16
This is the first commandment with a promise. The promise is that "it may go well with you in the land the Lord your God is giving you" and that you may live a long life. Both excellent promises. Most people would like to live a long time and have things go well with them. So there is some incentive for this one other than simply pleasing God.
How does one "honor" their parents though? It means to love, reverence, obey, and assist. This doesn't always mean to do everything the parent says because if they tell you to disobey God then you should not obey them. God still comes first.
This one is probably very hard for many people. Those with abusive parents especially. I was blessed with some really good parents myself so I don't really have much trouble with this one. Not that I know of offhand anyway...perhaps I should ask my mother. Her view might be different. Then again...I best be sure I'm ready to hear the truth first...
Saturday, May 7, 2011
The Fourth Commandment
"Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy." Exodus 20:8-11
This means exactly what it says. You work for 6 days and rest on the 7th day. Not just you either it is for your entire household and anyone that works for you. It also says to keep it holy...so on that day you are supposed to be worshiping or doing "holy" things. This was to be a day of complete rest.
This was also the seventh day. Which is Saturday. These days people tend to forget that Sunday is actually the first day of the week. I'm not sure how much this really matters. If the spirit of the law is observed...the letter of the law may not be so important. These days the world makes it very difficult to observe the sabbath on Saturday. Then again maybe God wants us to make the effort?
Many people think that the Sabbath is no longer required. Jesus observed the Sabbath himself however as did his disciples. They just didn't always observe it the way the Jewish Authorities thought it should be observed. They did what the authorities considered "work" on the sabbath. Jesus said that the "sabbath was made for man, not man for the sabbath."
These days with all the rushing about and activities that folks are involved in a day of rest is even more important. Everyone needs rest once in awhile...mental and emotional, as well as physical. This is a day when the television and telephone should be turned off too. Just get away from the world. Rest. Remember God.
This means exactly what it says. You work for 6 days and rest on the 7th day. Not just you either it is for your entire household and anyone that works for you. It also says to keep it holy...so on that day you are supposed to be worshiping or doing "holy" things. This was to be a day of complete rest.
This was also the seventh day. Which is Saturday. These days people tend to forget that Sunday is actually the first day of the week. I'm not sure how much this really matters. If the spirit of the law is observed...the letter of the law may not be so important. These days the world makes it very difficult to observe the sabbath on Saturday. Then again maybe God wants us to make the effort?
Many people think that the Sabbath is no longer required. Jesus observed the Sabbath himself however as did his disciples. They just didn't always observe it the way the Jewish Authorities thought it should be observed. They did what the authorities considered "work" on the sabbath. Jesus said that the "sabbath was made for man, not man for the sabbath."
These days with all the rushing about and activities that folks are involved in a day of rest is even more important. Everyone needs rest once in awhile...mental and emotional, as well as physical. This is a day when the television and telephone should be turned off too. Just get away from the world. Rest. Remember God.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
The Third Commandment
The third commandment says "You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name." Exodus 20:7
I have found several different explanations of what "misuse" means here.
One is using the name of God along with swear words. Another is using the name of God while living a life of sin. One claim is that removing the actual name of God(Yahweh) from the bible is also taking his name in vain.
The argument for the last one is that God chose to put his name in scripture more than 7000 times. It is incredibly presumptuous at the very least for us to remove it. If God considered his name important enough to make a commandment regarding it then it is important indeed.
The Bethel Church of God has a good article posted on this subject. They make the point that using Gods name while not obeying God is misusing his name. They also point out that if you take an oath using Gods name and then tell a lie...that is a misuse. And that anyone who claims to represent God but do not "practice what they preach" are dishonoring God.
All of these are good points. The only thing I am certain of is that I need to be more careful. Much more careful. And ask for forgiveness more often.
I have found several different explanations of what "misuse" means here.
One is using the name of God along with swear words. Another is using the name of God while living a life of sin. One claim is that removing the actual name of God(Yahweh) from the bible is also taking his name in vain.
The argument for the last one is that God chose to put his name in scripture more than 7000 times. It is incredibly presumptuous at the very least for us to remove it. If God considered his name important enough to make a commandment regarding it then it is important indeed.
The Bethel Church of God has a good article posted on this subject. They make the point that using Gods name while not obeying God is misusing his name. They also point out that if you take an oath using Gods name and then tell a lie...that is a misuse. And that anyone who claims to represent God but do not "practice what they preach" are dishonoring God.
All of these are good points. The only thing I am certain of is that I need to be more careful. Much more careful. And ask for forgiveness more often.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
The Second of the Ten Commandments
The second commandment says "You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand generations, of those who love me and keep my commandments." Exodus 20:4-6
This is one that I tend to forget. I don't know why really. It should be easy to remember that you are not to make idols of anything. And this could be something other than a "graven image". Money could be an idol. Power could be an idol. Fame? Celebrity? Anything that you value or trust more than God can be and probably is an idol in your heart.
I like that it says he punishes the children to the third and fourth generation of those that hate him...but blesses to the thousandth generation those who love him. That is a huge difference.
And we all know it is true too. Children and grandchildren often suffer for what their parents do. Especially children of alcoholics and drug addicts.
And the United States pretty much shows that he does bless the descendants of those who love him. It was founded by religious people and until recently was very much a christian nation.
I think maybe we are starting to see some of the punishment these days.
This is one that I tend to forget. I don't know why really. It should be easy to remember that you are not to make idols of anything. And this could be something other than a "graven image". Money could be an idol. Power could be an idol. Fame? Celebrity? Anything that you value or trust more than God can be and probably is an idol in your heart.
I like that it says he punishes the children to the third and fourth generation of those that hate him...but blesses to the thousandth generation those who love him. That is a huge difference.
And we all know it is true too. Children and grandchildren often suffer for what their parents do. Especially children of alcoholics and drug addicts.
And the United States pretty much shows that he does bless the descendants of those who love him. It was founded by religious people and until recently was very much a christian nation.
I think maybe we are starting to see some of the punishment these days.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Do You Know The Ten Commandments?
Most Americans don't know the Ten Commandments. An article in The Good News magazine for April says that a survey by the Barna Research Group found that less than half the people surveyed could name even 5 of the Ten Commandments. That made me think and it turned out that I could only come up with 8 of them myself without thinking for a bit. So i'm going to go over them here. One at a time. That should help set them in my mind.
Just remember; Jesus said that what is in our hearts and minds is as important if not more so than what we do. In Matthew 5:28 he says that looking at someone lustfully means you have already committed adultery with them in your heart. 2 Corinthians 10:5 says we take every thought captive to obedience to Christ. So it is not only what we do that is important. What we think and how we feel matters too. The spirit of the law is more important than the letter of the law. I need to remember that. Especially when I'm angry.
The first of the Ten Commandments says :
"I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery, You shall have no other gods before me". Exodus 20:2-3
This means that God comes first. Before anything else. Before husband, children, work, or anything else. Jesus said, when asked, that the greatest law of scripture was that "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind" Mathew 22: 35-38
I need to work on this one.
There is a booklet about the Ten Commandments available on the Good News magazine website.
Just remember; Jesus said that what is in our hearts and minds is as important if not more so than what we do. In Matthew 5:28 he says that looking at someone lustfully means you have already committed adultery with them in your heart. 2 Corinthians 10:5 says we take every thought captive to obedience to Christ. So it is not only what we do that is important. What we think and how we feel matters too. The spirit of the law is more important than the letter of the law. I need to remember that. Especially when I'm angry.
The first of the Ten Commandments says :
"I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery, You shall have no other gods before me". Exodus 20:2-3
This means that God comes first. Before anything else. Before husband, children, work, or anything else. Jesus said, when asked, that the greatest law of scripture was that "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind" Mathew 22: 35-38
I need to work on this one.
There is a booklet about the Ten Commandments available on the Good News magazine website.
Monday, April 11, 2011
A New Commandment -John 13:34
So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. John 13:34
This is hard but not nearly as hard as this one :
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Matthew 5:43-48
This one is really hard to do. Especially when folks persist in being rude and disrespectful. Or even outright hateful and mean. I for one need help with it. My husband is needing help with it right now too. I'm praying for that help. Please add your prayer for us and all gods children. We need it these days more than ever.
This is hard but not nearly as hard as this one :
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Matthew 5:43-48
This one is really hard to do. Especially when folks persist in being rude and disrespectful. Or even outright hateful and mean. I for one need help with it. My husband is needing help with it right now too. I'm praying for that help. Please add your prayer for us and all gods children. We need it these days more than ever.
Friday, April 8, 2011
An Excellent Post By Doorkeeper
I just read a book review over on Doorkeeper. She is reviewing Lazarus Awakening by Joanna Weaver. Her post is like a really good sermon. I definitely want to read this book after reading her post.
She quotes Colosians 2 "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
Go read her post. You will be thankful you did.
She quotes Colosians 2 "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
Go read her post. You will be thankful you did.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Even so, come, Lord Jesus. Rev 22:20
He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. KJV
He who testifies to these things says, "Yes, I am coming soon." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. NIV
On this one I prefer the way the King James version has it. One of my favorite hymns "It Is Well With My Soul" includes the "Even so" bit.
With all the things going on in the world these days this is a good verse to keep in mind. And also a good thing to pray for. His coming is the only thing that will make everything right. Even so.
He who testifies to these things says, "Yes, I am coming soon." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. NIV
On this one I prefer the way the King James version has it. One of my favorite hymns "It Is Well With My Soul" includes the "Even so" bit.
With all the things going on in the world these days this is a good verse to keep in mind. And also a good thing to pray for. His coming is the only thing that will make everything right. Even so.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Blessings
My husbands birthday gave me special reason to think of all the rich blessings we have. We have everything we need and whenever we have needed anything it was provided or an alternative was provided that we hadn't thought of which usually ended up being even better. Things always seem to work out one way or another. We don't have much money but we manage to pay the bills and we have everything else. A wonderful family. A lovely little home. Friends. And always and above all God. He is wonderful. He made all this beautiful world and all the animals and everything. And we thank him very much! Now if we can just remember to do that more often...
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Keep Them From The Evil One
"My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you keep them from the evil one." John 17: 15
So we are to be in the world but to stay away from the evil one. And he thinks we need help in the keeping away from the evil one. From all I have seen and experienced myself he was most definitely right. The good thing is that he prayed for us. For me! For you! That is one powerful prayer coming from him. Be grateful...I expect it made a huge difference in your life. Just think where you might have ended up if he hadn't. I know very well how badly things could have gone for me.
So we are to be in the world but to stay away from the evil one. And he thinks we need help in the keeping away from the evil one. From all I have seen and experienced myself he was most definitely right. The good thing is that he prayed for us. For me! For you! That is one powerful prayer coming from him. Be grateful...I expect it made a huge difference in your life. Just think where you might have ended up if he hadn't. I know very well how badly things could have gone for me.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Confession is good for us
"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us of all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9
I really like that. I know very well that I need forgiveness every single day. Mostly for little things, but even little things can hurt.
I really like that. I know very well that I need forgiveness every single day. Mostly for little things, but even little things can hurt.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Satan Has Asked to Sift You
"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat." Luke 22:31
I'm not sure why but this keeps running through my head lately. In the next verse Jesus says that he has prayed for Simon that his faith not fail, and tells Simon he should strengthen his brethren when he has returned. It seems we all need to be sifted. Some of us more than others. I'm thinking maybe more than once even. That is scary but if it works...
I found some good commentaries and sermons online regarding this. Check them out if you are interested.
Shake Well Before Using
Why Did Satan Ask for Peter?
"Simon, Simon! Indeed Satan Has Asked For You..."!!
I'm not sure why but this keeps running through my head lately. In the next verse Jesus says that he has prayed for Simon that his faith not fail, and tells Simon he should strengthen his brethren when he has returned. It seems we all need to be sifted. Some of us more than others. I'm thinking maybe more than once even. That is scary but if it works...
I found some good commentaries and sermons online regarding this. Check them out if you are interested.
Shake Well Before Using
Why Did Satan Ask for Peter?
"Simon, Simon! Indeed Satan Has Asked For You..."!!
Friday, March 11, 2011
Repay no one evil for evil.
This was quoted in an article in Tomorrows World Magazine. I had read it before but this article "A Man Without Vengeance" also talked about Abraham Lincoln and how he was without a desire for vengeance. That made me think about this differently. I would like to be like that myself. Not sure I will ever manage it in this world...but one has to try!!
"Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written 'Vengeance is mine, I will repay', says the Lord. 'Therefore, if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink...' Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." Romans 12:17-21
"Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written 'Vengeance is mine, I will repay', says the Lord. 'Therefore, if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink...' Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." Romans 12:17-21
Monday, March 7, 2011
My husband has a new job.
That is something to be thankful for. If he likes it. Actually whether he likes it or not. He will like the money and can tolerate pretty much anything for a while. I really hope he actually likes the job though so he doesn't get frustrated or stressed out by it. Time will tell. If you are the praying sort please say one for him and me..and everyone else while you are at it! Thanks!
Friday, March 4, 2011
Joyful baby chicks
These cute little balls of fur are my new baby chicks. They seem full of joy themselves and watching them gives me a great deal of joy too. Another thing to be thankful for this spring!
Saturday, February 26, 2011
My Bible reading: Job 28
I have been reading from several different parts of the Bible. One of my current sections is the book of Job. I know I have read this before and much of it I remember but some of it seems as if I had never even heard of it before.
Like this passage from Job 28 about wisdom. I'm sure that it has at least been quoted at different times but I don't recall. This is beautiful. All about how people go to such efforts to mine gold and precious gems but cannot find wisdom anywhere. And that many do not even try to find wisdom or understanding because they simply cannot comprehend the worth of it. That is so true.
I want to memorize the last bit.
Job 28:28 And he said to the human race, "The fear of the Lord--that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding."
1 There is a mine for silver
and a place where gold is refined.
2 Iron is taken from the earth,
and copper is smelted from ore.
3 Mortals put an end to the darkness;
they search out the farthest recesses
for ore in the blackest darkness.
4 Far from human dwellings they cut a shaft,
in places untouched by human feet;
far from other people they dangle and sway.
5 The earth, from which food comes,
is transformed below as by fire;
6 lapis lazuli comes from its rocks,
and its dust contains nuggets of gold.
7 No bird of prey knows that hidden path,
no falcon’s eye has seen it.
8 Proud beasts do not set foot on it,
and no lion prowls there.
9 People assault the flinty rock with their hands
and lay bare the roots of the mountains.
10 They tunnel through the rock;
their eyes see all its treasures.
11 They search the sources of the rivers
and bring hidden things to light.
12 But where can wisdom be found?
Where does understanding dwell?
13 No mortal comprehends its worth;
it cannot be found in the land of the living.
14 The deep says, “It is not in me”;
the sea says, “It is not with me.”
15 It cannot be bought with the finest gold,
nor can its price be weighed out in silver.
16 It cannot be bought with the gold of Ophir,
with precious onyx or lapis lazuli.
17 Neither gold nor crystal can compare with it,
nor can it be had for jewels of gold.
18 Coral and jasper are not worthy of mention;
the price of wisdom is beyond rubies.
19 The topaz of Cush cannot compare with it;
it cannot be bought with pure gold.
20 Where then does wisdom come from?
Where does understanding dwell?
21 It is hidden from the eyes of every living thing,
concealed even from the birds in the sky.
22 Destruction and Death say,
“Only a rumor of it has reached our ears.”
23 God understands the way to it
and he alone knows where it dwells,
24 for he views the ends of the earth
and sees everything under the heavens.
25 When he established the force of the wind
and measured out the waters,
26 when he made a decree for the rain
and a path for the thunderstorm,
27 then he looked at wisdom and appraised it;
he confirmed it and tested it.
28 And he said to the human race,
“The fear of the Lord—that is wisdom,
and to shun evil is understanding.”
Like this passage from Job 28 about wisdom. I'm sure that it has at least been quoted at different times but I don't recall. This is beautiful. All about how people go to such efforts to mine gold and precious gems but cannot find wisdom anywhere. And that many do not even try to find wisdom or understanding because they simply cannot comprehend the worth of it. That is so true.
I want to memorize the last bit.
Job 28:28 And he said to the human race, "The fear of the Lord--that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding."
1 There is a mine for silver
and a place where gold is refined.
2 Iron is taken from the earth,
and copper is smelted from ore.
3 Mortals put an end to the darkness;
they search out the farthest recesses
for ore in the blackest darkness.
4 Far from human dwellings they cut a shaft,
in places untouched by human feet;
far from other people they dangle and sway.
5 The earth, from which food comes,
is transformed below as by fire;
6 lapis lazuli comes from its rocks,
and its dust contains nuggets of gold.
7 No bird of prey knows that hidden path,
no falcon’s eye has seen it.
8 Proud beasts do not set foot on it,
and no lion prowls there.
9 People assault the flinty rock with their hands
and lay bare the roots of the mountains.
10 They tunnel through the rock;
their eyes see all its treasures.
11 They search the sources of the rivers
and bring hidden things to light.
12 But where can wisdom be found?
Where does understanding dwell?
13 No mortal comprehends its worth;
it cannot be found in the land of the living.
14 The deep says, “It is not in me”;
the sea says, “It is not with me.”
15 It cannot be bought with the finest gold,
nor can its price be weighed out in silver.
16 It cannot be bought with the gold of Ophir,
with precious onyx or lapis lazuli.
17 Neither gold nor crystal can compare with it,
nor can it be had for jewels of gold.
18 Coral and jasper are not worthy of mention;
the price of wisdom is beyond rubies.
19 The topaz of Cush cannot compare with it;
it cannot be bought with pure gold.
20 Where then does wisdom come from?
Where does understanding dwell?
21 It is hidden from the eyes of every living thing,
concealed even from the birds in the sky.
22 Destruction and Death say,
“Only a rumor of it has reached our ears.”
23 God understands the way to it
and he alone knows where it dwells,
24 for he views the ends of the earth
and sees everything under the heavens.
25 When he established the force of the wind
and measured out the waters,
26 when he made a decree for the rain
and a path for the thunderstorm,
27 then he looked at wisdom and appraised it;
he confirmed it and tested it.
28 And he said to the human race,
“The fear of the Lord—that is wisdom,
and to shun evil is understanding.”
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Being Thankful
Some days it is harder than others to be thankful. Even in the United States where we still have one of the highest standards of living in the world, some days are easier than others. This day was very difficult. It is getting better as the sun has decided to shine for a bit this afternoon. I obviously need to do some more work on this. I will probably still be working on it even if I live another 40 years. I'm grateful for improvements though! :)
Monday, February 21, 2011
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Outnumbered 3 to 1: Introducing EDY'S Slow Churned Shakes and Smoothie...
Outnumbered 3 to 1: Introducing EDY'S Slow Churned Shakes and Smoothie...: "I am a lover of all things ice cream. I enjoy a variety of flavors and am pretty open to trying new ones. But, one thing I love even more th..."
Another item to be grateful for
A good bra that fits. I finally found one. Amazing how good that feels. And just so you know...I don't like shopping. I don't like shopping for clothes at least. It is really nice to have found something that fits well.
Sleep
I managed to get a bit of extra sleep this morning. That is something greatly to be treasured. Waking up slow instead of having to be in a hurry is a wonderful thing.
Friday, February 18, 2011
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