Blessed

Daily Bible Verse

6/16- So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love. - 1 Corinthians 13:13

5/25-For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. - John 3:16

5/19-And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. - James 5:15

5/18-Train up a child in the way he should go, Even when he is old he will not depart from it. - Proverbs 22:6

5/12-praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. - Acts 2:47

5/11-They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. - Acts 2:42

5/6- There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of land or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold and laid them at the apostles feet and it was distributed to each as any had need. - Acts 4:34-35

5/5-And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

5/4-Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. - Ephesians 6:10

4/30-When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, "If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." - John 8:7

4/24-It is the one and only Spirit who distributes all these gifts. He alone decides which gift each person should have - 1Corinthians 12:11

4/22-33For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. - 1 Corinthians 14:33

4/20-An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. - Proverbs 31:10

4/17-For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them." - Matthew 18:20

4/14-And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” - Romans 10:15

4/12-He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you." - Matthew 28:6-7

4/10- When the centurion and those who were with him, keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place, they were filled with awe and said, "Truly this was the Son of God!" - Matthew 27:54

4/8-Be joyful always - 1Thessalonians 5:16

4/7-When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. - John 19:30

4/6-Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. - Revelation 3:20

4/4-But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33

4/2-O The oracle that Habakkuk the prophet saw. Lord, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not hear? Or cry to you "Violence!" and you will not save? - Habakkuk 1:1-2

3/30-For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. - 1 Corinthians 14:33

3/26-Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?" - John 11:25-26

3/23-You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD. - Leviticus 19:18

3/17-For this is what the LORD Almighty says: "After he has honored me and has sent me against the nations that have plundered you—for whoever touches you touches the apple of his eye - Zechariah 2:8

3/16-And He said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness. - II Corinthians 12:9

3/15-The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing. - Zephaniah 3:17

3/14-Now the rabble that was among them had a strong craving. And the people of Israel also wept again and said, "Oh that we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we ate in Egypt that cost nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic. But now our strength is dried up, and there is nothing at all but this manna to look at." - Numbers 11:4-6

3/13-Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is -- his good, pleasing and perfect will. - Romans 12:2

3/10-Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. - Romans 8:26

3/9-Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit - Matthew 28:19

3/7-The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever. - 1 John 2:17

3/5-Pray without ceasing. - 1 Thessalonians 5:17

3/4-In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. - 1 Thessalonians 5:18

2/28-An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. - Luke 2:9

2/27-I will display my glory among the nations, and all the nations will see the punishment I inflict and the hand I lay upon them. - Ezekiel 39:21

2/20-And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. -Philippians 4:7

2/18-"Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!" -Psalm 46:10

2/17-Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit - Matthew 28:19

2/16-Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus - Philippians 2:5

2/14-Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. -Hebrews 12:1

2/13-But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. -Romans 5:8

2/12-Don't be so naive and self-confident. You're not exempt. You could fall flat on your face as easily as anyone else. Forget abut self-confidence; it's useless. Cultivate God-confidence. - 1 Corinthians 10:12

2/11-Unless you are faithful in small matters, you won't be faithful in large ones. - Luke 16:10

2/10-You, Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm and put their trust in you. - Isaiah 26:3

2/9-In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you. - Proverbs 25:22

2/8- If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. - Proverbs 25:21

2/5-Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. - Romans 12:21

2/4-To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” -Romans 12:20

2/3-Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” - Romans 12: 19

2/2-If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. - Romans 12:18

2/1-Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. - Romans 12:17

1/31-Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. - Romans 12:16

1/30-Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. - Romans 12:15

1/29-Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not - Romans 12:14

1/28-Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. - Romans 12:13

1/22-Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. -Romans 12:12

1/17-Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. -Romans 12:11

1/16-Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. -Romans 12:10

1/14-Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. -Romans 12:9

1/13-the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness. -Romans 12:8

1/12-if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; -Romans 12:7

1/9-Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; -Romans 12:6

1/8-so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another -Romans 12:5

1/7-For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function -Romans 12:4

1/6- For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. -Romans 12:3

1/5- Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect -Romans 12:2

1/2-Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. -Romans 12:1

1/1/09-Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. -Romans 12:9

12/28-Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. -Jeremiah 29:12

12/27-For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope -Jeremiah 29:11

12/26-My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior - Luke 1:46

12/25- For to us a child is born, to us a son is given -Isaiah 9:6

12/23-Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people.

12/22-Let your seadfast love comfort me according to your promise to your servant. -Psalm 119:76

12/21-My eyes long for your promise; I ask, "When will you comfort me?" -Psalm 119:82

12/19-And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. -Hebrews 11:6

12/18- As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us. -Psalms 103:12

12/17-Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. -Ephesians 4:32

12/14-O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. -Psalm 139:1-2

12/13Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6

12/10-For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us -Romans 8:18

12/9-Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Mas everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death in to life. -John 5:24

12/8- Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. Romans 8:26

12/2-For by grace, you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God -Ephesians 2:8

11/25-do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6

11/24-Offer to God a sacrifice of Thanksgiving, and perform your vows to the Most High Psalm 50:14

11/23-Sing praises to the Lord, O you his saints, and give thanks to his holy name. Psalm 30:4

11/19-You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

11/18-Yet you are he who took me from the womb; you made me trust you at my mother's breasts. On you was I cast from my birth, and from my mother's womb you have been my God. Psalm 22:9-10

11/17-Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart Psalm 119:2

11/15-This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24

11/12-Be still, and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10

11/11-Today, if you woud hear His voice do not harden your hearts. Psalm 95:7-8

11/5-"Do no let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in Me." John 14:1

11/4-From the fullness of His grace we have all received one blessing after another. John 1:16

10/30-I will hurry, without lingering to obey your commands. Psalm 119:60

10/27-Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 1 John 2:15

10/26-Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Philippians 4:4

10/25-One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul.

10/24-In all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

10/20-The Lord will bless His people with peace. Psalm 29:11

10/19-Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Matthew 5:8

10/18-There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven...a time to be silent and a time to speak. Ecclesiastes 3:1,7

10/17-He has made everything beautiful in its time. Ecclesiastes 3:11

10/15-The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands. Psalm 19:1

10/8-Whoever speaks the truth gives honest evidence, but a false witness utters deceit. Proverbs 12:17

10/4-O Lord, our Lord , how majestic is Your name in all the earth! Psalm 8:9

10/2-Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in Christ. Ephesians 1:3

9/30-God has chosen you from the beginning for salvation through sanctifiction by the Spirit and faith in the truth. 2Thessalonians

9/26-All who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. Romans 8:14

9/25-The spirit of man is the lamp of the Lord. Proverbs 20:27

9/24-As for you, stand here by Me, that I may speak to you. Deuteronomy 5:31

9/22-Search me, o God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting! Psalm 139:23-24

9/21-Then God said, "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livesock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth. Genesis 1:26

9/17-Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6

9/16-My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. John 10:27

9/15-Have I not comanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

9/11-24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, 25 as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Hebrews 10:24-25

9/9-1Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever. 2Give thanks to the God of gods, for his steadfast love endures forever. 3Give thanks to the Lord of lords, for his steadfast love endures forever; Psalm 136:1-3

9/8-And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. Luke 2:37

9/4-Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 13:11

9/3-Lift up your hands to the holy place and bless the LORD! Psalms 134:2

9/2- Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. James 1:19-20

9/1-God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Psalm 46:1

8/31-I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13

8/30-For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.
Ehpesians 2:8-9

8/29-Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Romans 12:12

8/28-As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him.
2 Samuel 22:31

8/27-And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
Hebrews 11:6

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

God I want...

I want the perfect job...God give me the job I want.
I want to loose weight...God give me strength not to eat all that yummy chocolate.
I'm sick...God make me well.
I want a big house...God please give me a big house.

Our world is so focused on now, now, now that we don't slow down long enough to have a intimate relationship with God. Our society is an instant society. We ask for it and boom it should be there waiting.

I'm hungry...Fast food on every corner.
I'm sick...give me a pill.
I'm overweight...here's a pill and a plan to loose 20lbs. in 7 days.
I'm pale...10 minutes 3 times a week and you look like you have been on vacation.

In my bible study "Discovering the Voice of God" I have to come to the realization of how selfish I am. I have been trying to seek Gods direction more than just plain old getting to know God. I am always asking for something. I want to get his guidance and help but I don't want a relationship. It is like that great girl that you work with through the week that helps you in every way but you don't want her to come to your house and socialize with you and your family. You don't want her to know the real you...the one that leaves dishes in the sink, the dirty clothes piled up and sometimes says words that are less than nice.

Well...God wants for us to do more than just ask for help he wants a steady relationship. One of the very wise ladies in Bible Study today said that the reason sometimes we find it hard to have a close relationship with God is because it scares us to think that someone will know us that intimately. This is crazy God knows it all. He knows all of our flaws and quirks. He knows if we are control freaks, bad cooks, not very disciplined with our diet, have a bad temper, say words out loud or in our heads. God knows it all. I guess we feel that if we ever let God get that close that we will have to change. Have to change? I have to keep telling myself God knows anyway why am I afraid.

God I want...You to be my best friend.

God is so Good! Amen!

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Just tell the TRUTH!!!

This is a post that I started after the Vice Presidential Debate. I have had problems posting it and now I know why...I have been praying daily for our country, our leaders, the right leaders for our country and for some sort of clear decision for me. I have become very un-trusting of both sides...yes I said both sides. As you read this post the red words are after the Palin-Biden debate and the blue words are after the debate last night at Belmont.

Go...Sara...Go!! (Not so sure now!)

I am so tired of hearing everyone discuss Sara Palin like she is not smart enough to get out of the rain. They are all talking about her like she is not even a real woman. All of the lefties are so offended that a real woman would protect the life of an unborn child. Instead they would rather her say that she thinks its fine to kill babies for selfish reasons. Marriage she feels is between one man and one woman. Amen Sister! It is so refreshing to hear this from her and know that she is telling us her true beliefs. Not just what will get votes.

There have been few times in the past that I have been proud to say that I am voting for a certain ticket. (Well as of last night I am not proud. I feel like they are all just politicians that have their own agenda.)The McCain-Palin ticket this year is exciting. I know that they are Republicans (I am a Republican too) and right now the Republicans are not looking so good...but I feel like these two are not our everyday Republicans.(Same ole' same ole') They seem to make me think that they want to buck the system. Sara Palin sold her personal plane in Alaska on e-bay for goodness sake. How normal is that for Washington? Someone giving up a perk...How weird is that?? I don't care what she does... (Well, I do care.)I am ready for her to shake up the Senate and help them to understand that everybody doesn't have drivers, maids, big paychecks w/huge retirements, fancy clothes, an apartment and a house, or several homes and people waiting on them hand and foot. I also want her to explain to them that this is their job and it is not ok for them to show up and vote when they feel like. We pay their big salary and if they don't want to show up and work we will find someone out here that would love to have their job.

I am not worried about Sara Palin knowing everything that the experts say she needs to know.(I am afraid they are going to corrupt her with all of their crap.) Maybe she is better off not knowing about all that junk. She will go in with a fresh mind. (To late they filled her full of all of the junk those three days she was in Arizona planning for the debate.)

Hopefully she will stay away from the beltway boys because they will corrupt her. I pray for her to stay fresh, down to earth and keep listening to her God. (our God!)

Well after last night I was disappointed in everyone. I want to hear substance that is important to all of us. Let me rephrase that I want to hear truthful substance. All of the slinging of crap is getting old. (I am going to have to sit in the cussing chair. Sorry.) I want to know how we are going to get out of this mess. You name it everything our government touches turns to...I want some common sense talk. Not all of this two year old squabbling. You did it, no you did it! Well its pretty obvious that everyone has their hands in this mess. Take responsibility and fix it!

This morning as I watched the talking heads on many of the channels I tried to get both sides opinion. Even Fox News was down on McCain. They were pointing out the untruths that Obama and McCain told. Obama 6, McCain 5. How can you get up in front of the whole nation and tell lies. Especially when most homes have Internet and all you have to do is look it up and have the answer instantly. One of the host of one of the shows said "If you say it enough it will become true." Give me a break! I don't care how many times I tell myself I am skinny...Oh you get the picture.

Even in all of this confusion I know God has a plan for this country. I feel blessed to have been born here (I was born in Japan in an American hospital.) instead of Cuba, Africa, Russia, China...and so many more. As I pray for the upcoming election I pray for guidance for me and my family in our decision. I also pray for others to seek Him in their decision. Whether you are a Democrat or a Republican see Gods will this November and make sure you vote. Every vote matters.

Thursday, October 2, 2008

Ways to fight...Strongholds

POST-IT-NOTES
(Everywhere in my house.)

KITCHEN SINK
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. -Psalm 23:1

STOVE
Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him. -Psalm 34:8

MIRROR
In all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. -Romans 8:28

REFRIGERATOR
The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. -Deuteronomy 33:27

WASHER
Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. -Joshua 1:9

BEDROOM DOOR
As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him. -2Samuel 22:31

NIGHTSTAND
You have made know to me the path of life; You will fill me with joy in Your presence, with eternal pleasures at Your right hand. -Psalm 16:11

SHOWER
He will yet fill your mouth with Laughter and your lips with shouts of joy. -Job 8:21

STEERING WHEEL
The joy of the Lord is your strength. -Nehemiah 8:10

MY RECLINER
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth! -Psalm 8:9

BACK DOOR
The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. -Psalm 121:8

TV CONTROLLER
One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life. -Psalm 27:4

FRONT DOOR
He has made everything beautiful in its time. -Ecclesiastes 3:11

COMPUTER
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! -Philippians 4:4

CLOSET DOOR
Christ in you, the hope of glory. -Colossians 1:27

KITCHEN CABINET
"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in Me." -John 14:1

Put Gods word everywhere you are so you are always soaking in the word.
We need to change our thinking about the Bible. It is not just an old book with a lot of theology for us to digest. It is the Living Word of God!

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Strongholds...

Well...you may want to skip this one. This is like therapy for me today. I am venting and being a little selfish. Sorry...

I had never really thought about things in my life that hold me back from having a relationship with God. I am sure most people don't but yesterday in Bible Study it was like God opened the flood gates and the strongholds just kept flowing toward me.

I was just getting over the stress that I was feeling about the lesson on "Do God things not just Good things." I had just come to an understanding that my life had been filled with a lot of Good things. Don't get me wrong doing good things for folks is wonderful as long as you don't forget God in the equation. Sometimes we get so busy doing good things that we leave God out totally. My life over the past few years has been filled with stuff and that is it...just a bunch of good stuff. I have been trying to be more intentional with my picking and choosing. I have been listening more to what God wants me to do.

Back to the strongholds. Wow! I have many strongholds that hold me back. I am not going to name them all (way to many) but I would like to admit to one. I have a problem with anger, not just any anger but the anger that has consumed my life since the split of my church. I am very happy with my new church and church family but I still hold a lot of anger towards the "others." That is what I call them. They have said some ugly things and done some ugly things and I just can't seem to get over the pain.

Yesterday in Bible study it was all I could do to keep from crying. I know that this is a problem and I have been too engulfed in all of the emotion to hear what God has been trying to tell me. As I sat in the bonus room filled with the most amazing women God spoke to me. He spoke to me through some of these women and their comments. He let me know that this is normal... it was a part of the healing process we all go through after a loss but he also let me know that he was still in control and that I needed to let things go and let him guide me through the rest of my journey. That is another stronghold I have to work on...I need to let go of control and listen to what God is saying.

This bible study is eye opening. It is wonderful to study the word of God. I will keep listening this coming week. Less me, me, me and more him, him, HIM! I need to be in the word and in constant contact so that He can help me.

Just writing it down makes me a little less angry. I guess because I have admitted it to myself and more importantly to God that I have this problem he is already taking over and giving me peace. Aaahhh...God is so Good!

Monday, September 29, 2008

Orson at MBA

Angie and Orson
Debbie, Kacey, Alycia and Jan

Most Monday's I am ready for them to end before they begin but today I would not of been disappointed if it had lasted a little longer. We had the great privilege to go and hear Orson speak at MBA. He did not have long but what time he had he used it wisely. He spoke about everything from his time with the FTC all the way back to his being a prisoner during the Vietnam War.

I love to hear him talk about being a prisoner of war. I don't particularly like to hear how badly Orson was treated but I do love to hear his stories of courage. To me they are courageous to him they were survival skills he used and used well to honor his country. Through all of the torture he never gave up any information that would go against his country The United States of America. The Land of The Free and The Home of The Brave. I am so grateful to men like Orson who gave up so much to keep this great country free.

We also got to spend a few minutes with Angie and Orson. We had not seen them in a while so of course we had to get the cameras out and take some memories. While Orson was talking to a Government class we sat outside enjoyed each other and the beautiful fall day.

Alycia and Kacey, Finally a good pic with me and the girls, Jan and the Girls.

Orson and Angie

Every time I hear Orson speak it makes me proud to be an American. Maybe we need to hear more of these veterans speak so that we can be more appreciative of what we have. Sometimes I feel like the generation coming up takes to much for granted and needs to be reminded that all of our freedom was not free...somebody paid the price.

Friday, September 26, 2008

KACEY is 12!

I can't believe that it was 12 yrs ago today that Kacey Lee Noland was born. I didn't go into labor this was a planned c-section. Even though it was planned I can still remember the butterflies that were churning in my stomach. Kenny got to go in with me unlike with Alycia. He was there holding my hand and then holding Kacey. God had blessed us with another beautiful baby girl. Until Kacey arrived we were not sure what we were going to name her. One of the names was Cassandra. We thought that would be here grown up adult name and we would call her Casey. We had tried all different kinds of spellings and nothing ever looked right to us. Not long after she was born it was so clear to us that she wasn't a formal grown up Cassandra. That name just didn't fit her...she was a bubbly, smiling, full of joy Kacey. Kacey fit her to a T. On September 26, 1996 God blessed our family with a beautiful baby girl and 4,380 days later she is still blessing us.

Happy Birthday to you (Cha, Cha, Cha)

Happy Birthday dear Kacey

Happy Birthday to you! (Cha, Cha, Cha)

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Take me to your leader...2

I shared this pic last month and I wanted to continue with the story.

These three great guys are John, Joe, and Tom. They are our Children, Young Adult and Youth Pastors. A wonderful team with an awesome since of humor. The last time I posted this picture I titled it "Take me to your leader" Well...I found the leader.

Pastor Danny our Leader. This man is (as you can see) fun to fellowship with and can flip a mean burger.

I thank God daily for sending us these Godly men.

THANKS GOD!

http://www.providencebaptistfellowship.com/

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Listen...

Luke 8:18
Be sure to pay attention to what you hear. To those who are open to my teaching, more understanding will be given. But to those who are not listening, even what they think they have will be taken away from them.

My mom used to tell me, "If you would shut your mouth for just a minute and listen you may hear what I am saying." Wow! What a concept. Listen! I know that most of the time my mouth is running and I am hearing nothing. My bible study is about listening. How God is talking to us but we are not hearing Him.

I think I am listening...The cell phone, computer, TV, kids, hubby, house cleaning, cooking, school work...Surely I can do all of this and still talk to God. Well, maybe talk but am I really going to be able to listen with all of these distractions. No...I don't truly think I can talk to him with these distractions. It drives me crazy when I am talking to one of the girls and they do not pay attention, so how do you think that makes Him feel.

Once again it is not about me, me, me! It is about Him, Him, HIM!!

I must intentionally sit down and have a conversation with Him. Sit down and have a cup of coffee and talk to him like a friend, because he is my best friend. He puts up with a lot from me but is always there to LISTEN.

Monday, September 22, 2008

A true friend...forgets about himself.

About two weeks ago my family participated in the broken wheel festival. We had so much fun. One of the things that stood out to me that day was the 5k run. Kenny(my husband) had been challenged to run. He hasn't ran in over 20 years. He has bad knees, terrible back problems and right now a broken shoulder that is in the healing process. Even though you would think all of these things would stop him from running they didn't...he couldn't turn down a challenge even if it would disable him for several days afterwards.

Our pastor Joe that challenged him became concerned (I think) and fixed Kenny out a plan to prepare him for this race. It was a two week plan and I don't know how much you can prepare in two weeks but it would have to help some.

A few days before the race Jeff one of Kenny's friends said that he would run/walk with Kenny. This made me feel good for two reasons. The first was so that someone would be with Kenny (just in case) and the second was because Jeff is a seasoned runner and could of ran this race in half the time. He chose to stay with his friend. This was such a wonderful testimony about Jeff.

It wasn't just about him it was about being a friend.

Thanks Jeff!

Homecoming

Today I am bragging a little about Kacey. This past weekend she was named Homecoming Queen. It was a wonderful day and a great memory for her.

Standing in line getting ready...

Walking up and being introduced.

Kacey and Bailey
Homecoming Queen and King.

Sunday, September 21, 2008

Week Two...Boost!

Sunday evening Bible Study. I was looking forward to this day all week. After my first class last week I have been ready to learn...you know how when your watching a TV show that continues every week and you wish they would make a ten hour show and stop the suspense. Well tonight Bro. Danny could of talked for two more hours. The study, the questions, the comments and just the all around feel was amazing. There were so many questions answered that I had pondered before but had never really understood. It is an non-intimidating study nothing is considered silly or unimportant.

As I had said last week Kenny and I decided to do the "Kingdom of God" study. For years I was in the mind set that I knew it all or at least all that I needed to know. I was saved when I was 16 and I knew where I would go in the end. I, I, I! This makes me sound so selfish. Selfish...what a very disturbing word. It is just nearly embarrassing for me to say it out loud. Tonight we were talking about the "all about me thing." You know...God came and died on the cross for me. There is so much more and I left feeling like I had stolen something from God and myself tonight. You know it is not all about me, me, me...or even you, you, you...it is about Him, Him, HIM!!! I had stolen the glory from him that he deserves and I stole the knowledge of Him from myself. How could I be so selfish? I am sure over the next weeks I will discover these answers.

I am so amazed at how forgiving God is with us. He just keeps coming back trying to teach and fill us with the knowledge of Himself. You know there has been many times I have tried to teach my kids things and when I realize that they were not listening or that they didn't care I just moved on because it was taking up my time. Luckily God does not give up on us so quickly.

I need to thank our wonderful God for being patient and willing to wait until I am ready to listen. I also need to thank Him for being such a great example to me. I need to use his example of patience in my life with the girls, my husband, my family, my neighbors, when I am waiting in line and when I think that my time is more important that others. I need to not be so me, me, me centered and remember that Gods image is seen in me by others. I want it to be Him that they are seeing not the selfish Debbie.

We are just in week two and already I am learning some life changing things. We have four weeks to go. I don't think I can wait. Patience.....

www.providencebaptistfellowship.com

Thursday, September 18, 2008

If time could stand still...

Do you ever wonder about time standing still? That may be a crazy question for you but for me it seems like there is never enough time in a day to do all that needs to be done. Most days I go to bed feeling like I didn't do anything very well. I did everything just well enough to get by. Over the past couple of days I have been praying that God would show me a way to slow down and enjoy the small moments that are so special in life. Sometimes I feel like I miss important little moments because everything is going by at a fast pace. It is just a blur.

One of my favorite songs "Your Going to Miss This" by Trace Adkins keeps going through my mind here lately. I guess this is why I wish time could stand still. I wish everything would stop except our lives of course. We could stay at home watch movies, read books, do crafts, cook together, eat together, play games and just enjoy each other. I would even enjoy hearing the girls fuss over who gets to be in the bathroom first because we would be in no rush to get anywhere.

Kacey and Alycia have always loved the old shows. Shows like Andy Griffith. I guess because life seems so easy and care free. Last year we went to a town called Bell Buckle. Kacey just fell in love with the place. She thought that she could go anywhere she wanted there and feel safe. Oh, to go back to that small town feel. I know Kacey, Kenny and I would love it but I'm sure that Alycia would feel like she just dropped off the map. Where would she go? What would she do? Would there be anybody to hang out with?

I am at the point in my life where I need to sit on the porch and enjoy the breeze with my family. I think God expects us to take in all of the daily beauty he provides for us. This beauty includes our families. Today I am going to take my coffee and sit on the front porch. I am going to talk to God but most importantly I am going to LISTEN. I am going to slow down and listen to what God wants for me and my family.

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Orson Swindle

Orson is Jans cousin Angie's husband. He was a prisioner of war with John McCain. He is a great speaker and has a wonderful story.
Click below to see interview on Fox News.

Comcast Webmail - Email Message

Monday, September 15, 2008

Kids say the darnedest things...

Alycia and Tomi

I don't know if anybody can remember the show Kids Say The Darnedest Things but today it hit me that sometimes my kids say the smartest things. I am stressing the sometimes because my two girls are usually screaming at each other.

Today Alycia my 16 year old said to me, "Mom that wasn't very christian now was it." After I had gotten over the anger that flew through me and thought for a moment I realized that it wasn't very christian. Sometimes especially here lately things have come out of my mouth with not much thought. My anger and hurt feelings have gotten the best of me. I have had to pray here lately for myself not to say things that I will regret later.

Back to Alycia reprimanding me...Once I was over the shock of Alycia's comments I was proud of her for bringing it to my attention. You know those moments that you think to yourself "She was listening!" Oh my gosh, all those years I thought I was talking to myself she was really taking it in for use in the future. Little did I know that it would be used on me.

One of Alycia's comments that hit so hard was just common sense. She said, "Mom if all of you adults could act like Tomi and I you wouldn't be having so many problems. We are friends first and the other stuff going on is not a problem with us." Wouldn't it be great to have that kind of outlook. It would be great if we could brush these weights on our shoulders off like they were feathers. Today I have started praying for God to allow me to get through the anger more earnestly than ever before. To have an attitude like my sixteen year old. (Who would of ever thought I would of said that statement?) To let it go and not be consumed. I know that it will not be easy but I know that God can help me to conquer anything that I lay at his feet.

I am so glad that Alycia is listening. Maybe she is using her selective hearing on the things I am preaching to her daily about loving her sister. Her motto about Kacey is this, "I can mess with her all I want but nobody else better mess with her."

Sunday Morning Bible Study!

Sunday we had our "first" Sunday Morning Bible Studies. This is our Youth Group led by Bro. Tom.

www.providencebaptistfellowship.com

Sunday, September 14, 2008

Boost Delivered!

This past week has been long and the other day I said I need a boost to get me going again. Well, guess what? Boost delivered. Thanks God! This morning I was on my churches web site. Our Pastor had been talking about some Bible studies that would be offered this fall. This morning there is a new title listed. Providence College! How exciting is this? Well to some of you maybe not so exciting, but to me this is great. Here lately I can't get enough of the Bible. I just want to know more. You would think that being a christian and being in Church most of my childhood and adult life that I wouldn't need to learn anything else about the Bible. Surprise, Surprise I don't think you can ever learn enough about the Bible.

Over the past months I have been studying in Psalm, Philippians, Romans, and Ephesians. I keep shaking my head as I read and study thinking that this is odd because I have read it before and I don't remember it this way, but maybe when I was studying before I was not ready to hear what I am hearing God tell me now.

I guess the study we are going to be doing on Ephesians excites me the most. During my life at different times I have read Ephesians 1:3-6 "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessings in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved." Every time I had questions. I have asked about it but usually the answer was, "Well that's what it says but that is not what it means." So what does it mean? The answer was always the same, "I don't know but I know that it does not mean that!" To me everything in the Bible was put in there by God and there are no mistakes in the Bible so how can I ignore what is said in Ephesians.

People are afraid to explain Ephesians. I am grateful to out Pastor for wanting to teach on this subject. I want to be able to explain all questions to my children. I want to be able to explain fully with knowledge of what I am talking about. Sometimes the reason people don't explain and try to skip around a subject is because they don't know. I know that learning something new can be scary, especially if it is unlike anything you have ever been taught. I would rather be informed.

I don't think there is anything wrong with being informed even if you have a different opinion about a controversial subject. We need to remember that there are some things that we can not disagree on...most importantly that Jesus died on the cross and arose in three days. That is something we must agree on, the rest we may be surprised when we get to heaven and God says, "You were close but not totally correct." I figure there will be many things that I have gotten wrong. All I need to know is that God has saved me for the glory of His Kingdom and I need to get out and spread His word so others can experience God and go out and spread the word.

Tonight 9/14 was our first class. Kenny and I chose to go to "The Kingdom of God" a six week study. Bro. Danny gave us an overview of what was to come in the next six weeks. We were in class for 1 1/2 hours and I could of sat there for another 1 1/2 hours. Learning about God is so Good!!! :)

http://www.providencebapistfellowship.com/

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Our Youth...The Future!

FLORIDA

This morning I opened up my e-mail and this is what I found. Pictures of our Florida trip. All the smiles on the kids faces took me back to that week. The week had started with some sadness. We were going as two churches not one. You could see the pain in their faces as we stood outside the church and waited to get on the bus. Nobody knew what this week would bring.

The first night in Florida our Youth Pastor Tom brought the big pink elephant into the forefront. He let us know that it was ok to feel the way we did. He also let us know that this was the perfect week for us to focus on God and to let Him help us to heal.

It was amazing how God worked that week. It was like our speaker Landon Dowden had a direct line to God and knew exactly what we needed to hear. So many times I would say "Wow!" I wish THBC and Providence Baptist Fellowship were here to experience what God has explained to us today.

We came back as one youth group. The kids realized they were friends no matter where they went to church. I wish as adults we could have this attitude. Sometimes through our daily lives we get hardened to the simple things. These kids are an example to me on how to move forward. That does not mean that I don't struggle, but it is getting better. We need to remember the youth daily in our prayers. Our youth are an important part of the Church...they are the future!

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

CMA Music Fest...Ahhhh!

This is what I saw on TV.

Tonight we watched the CMA Music Fest and I loved every minute. I am already excited about next year. This is one of the highlights of our summer. The first time I went to CMA fest was five years ago. Alycia was going on a World Changers Mission Trip with our church. Kacey was so upset because Alycia was going to be gone for a week. I was trying to find something for us to do that I thought she would like. We ended up at the CMA Music Fest. The first two days we didn't even go. We had no idea what we were missing. Now there are not many minutes that we miss during the four day music concert. We get up early to be at the convention center for autographs and stay until the last performer sings in the evening. It is the most tiring yet the most fun you can have in four days. Usually after the last day we all need a vacation. I know I sleep most of the Monday afterwards.

Tomi, Alycia and Kacey with Taylor Swift.

Victoria, Tomi, Alycia & Kim - Kacey and the Bull - Kacey and Randy Travis

Watching tonight gave me a little smile on my face. I saw the girls and their friends holding up signs and singing. It started me thinking about who we'll see next year. It doesn't really matter...we all have a GOOD TIME no matter who shows up.

Kacey w/Taylor Swift's Guitar.

Monday, September 8, 2008

Amazing Day for God!

This past week I said that I thought Saturday was going to be great day for our church and an amazing day for God. Well, amazing can not even begin to explain the feeling that I had yesterday afternoon.

Providence Baptist Fellowship (The Blue Shirts) were out in full force. We ran in the race, gave out water, sold bake goods, painted faces,made and

wore balloon hats, most importantly we invited folks to church. I have never been good with inviting people to my church. Today God gave me the courage to step out and invite total strangers to Providence Baptist Fellowship and guess what...I didn't die or pass out or any of those things I thought would happen. I left the Broken Wheel Festival excited about how God had used us...For His Glory! Amen!!

Once again I am feeling very blessed and humbled by everything. God keeps answering our prayers. Doors keep opening and our congregation keeps growing. God is so Good, God is so Good, God is so Good, He is so Good to US!! :)

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Go Sarah!

Wow!! What a speech. I can't remember the last time I wanted to hear a speech. When we got home last night after church Kenny was getting ready to watch Seinfeld. This is our normal routine. Tonight I objected to Seinfeld I wanted to watch Sarah Palin. All of the talk over the past few days sparked my interest in this woman. They were talking about her being pro-life, a christian, a mother of five, a wife, the Governor of Alaska and a hunter. I was thinking to myself she must be some sort of super woman. Well after last night I am going to add on heck of a speaker to her list. I don't think once during her speech did a smile leave my face. Well maybe once when she was talking about her son that has downs syndrome, but still I ended up smiling because you could see the love she has for her family in the way she talked about them.

Usually by this time I am sick of all of the political hub-bub, but this year I am looking forward to seeing what tomorrow brings. I know one thing who-ever brings it better watch out because Sarah Palin does not care to stick it to you with a smile on her face. Go Sarah!!