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

Friday, October 31, 2008

Reverse Trick or Treat

Amazing Night for GOD!

Here are some great pictures of our Reverse Trick or Treat. We went out Friday night and handed out treats to over 800 households. The treats had information about Salvation, our church and some candy.

Brother Danny led us in Prayer as we began our night.

Brother Joe gave some instruction on picking up the bags/directions and what to do
when we got into the neighborhoods.

Here we are going through the maps and picking up the bags.

When we got back to the church office we all got a cup of hot chocolate or cider. Ganny Jan and Laura Pullen were so sweet to do this for us. It hit the spot on a cool evening.

Brother John asked us to share some things that had happened tonight. The young boys were telling about a woman that had asked for prayer for her family.

Tonight we went out to introduce ourselves to the community and to treat them. Once again God had a plan that I didn't see coming. I was the one blessed. It was a great night for God!

www.providencebaptistfellowship.com

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Tradition

PUMPKINS BABY!

Today after a pretty intense week so far Kacey and I decided that we needed some pumpkin carving time. We had let it slip up on us this year. This is something that has become a family tradition. Kacey usually picks out the pumpkins, the girls pick their design and then Kenny helps them carve. I am usually in charge of taking pictures and cleaning up the mess of course. It is a fun, messy, light hearted night that always brings a smile.

We had a lot of fun and made a huge mess. Alycia I think likes to clean out the pumpkins as much if not more than any of the rest of the stuff. She is a pumpkin cleaning freak. (Yuk! this is the part that I hated so I am glad she likes to do it.) Alycia's pattern this year was easy and it was not hard to see what she had done. Kacey's was an easy pattern also but it was really hard to see so she was upset that it didn't turn out good until we put the candle in and sat her pumpkin outside. Wow! It was great! Even Wags got into the festivities. Kacey and Wags carved a pumpkin and Wags of course helped me with cleaning up anything that was dropped on the floor. Once again we have some really great pumpkins sitting on the front porch with the scarecrows. Granny, Kenny and I enjoyed some coffee after the madness. It was a blessed evening.

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Falling in Love with Our Savior

I just had to give an update on our "Falling in Love with Our Savior" Brunch.

God blessed with a beautiful fall day.

A wonderful group of Ladies attended.

The decorations were amazing. On every table was a beautiful center piece. Made by Raluca. Wow!!!

The table of food looked like something you would see at a 5 star hotel. The presentation was incredible. There was croissants, quiche, muffins, muffins and more muffins, cheese cakes, an amazing fruit cup, banana bread w/cream cheese, fruit tea...I could go on and on.

Leigh led us in some songs that directed our hearts in the right direction...to HIM.

Paula introduced us to our Savior that we were going to be falling in love with. Paula spoke about who he was...our father, our creator, our alpha and omega, our strength, our peace, our protector, the one that pursues us. The list was long and eye opening. Paula has a love for God that bubbles out of her. In her voice you can hear her love for God.

Raluca followed Paula by telling and showing us how God made Adam with his own hands. Gods fingerprints were all over Adam. Raluca showed us this with clay. It was a great visual that gave me a chill. Just thinking about Gods fingerprints all over me was something I had not thought of before.

Amanda was next. I love to hear Amanda. She told a funny story of how us ladies over think things. How we are always talking to that little person in our heads. She read to us out of Acts 16. She told us about Lydia. She was a real woman that we all can relate to. The Lord opened Lydia's heart. He did it! Wow! Amanda asked us if we were putting ourselves in the position to hear from God.

Sara followed Amanda with a touching testimony. She talked of her life before she was a christian. She told of the emptiness that she felt even though she had everything she had worked for that was worldly. She told of how she accepted the Lord as her Savior. I was so touched to hear her speak about the lady that told her about the Lord. We have a special treasure in Sara that God will use with our youth.

Leigh ended the brunch with a song that brought tears to my eyes. "How Deep The Fathers Love For Us" Leigh's voice was loving and the words were a sermon all by themselves. He loves us so much. He gave his son for us so that we could have everlasting life. Sitting there listening I kept thinking how selfish are we to not return this love. He is our EVERYTHING! AMEN!

Today I didn't win a prize that I could take home and display. I received something greater than that...I received a deeper love for my Savior. I think everyone in that room today was blessed beyond anything they could imagine. When I got up this morning I was tired and talked to myself with that little voice in my head. I told myself that it would be ok if I didn't show up. I am so thankful I did go because God showed up and I felt his love. It was amazing!

Friday, October 24, 2008

Providence Ladies

Falling in Love with Our Savior!

I was listening to the news this morning and Sara Palin was on giving a speech. It was the same ole' same ole' until I heard her say, "There are the worlds standards of perfection and then there are Gods standards of perfection and every child is beautiful before God." I just stopped what I was doing picked up the controller and hit the 15 sec button. Sara was talking about special needs children and her little boy Trig. In her voice you could hear her love for her child and other special needs children but most importantly you could hear her love for her Savior.

This weekend our Providence Ladies Group is hosting a Brunch. Our theme is "Falling in Love with Our Savior." The title says it all...we should be so in love with our God that we would stand up and say it anywhere.

God is so good, God is so good, God is so good, He is so good to me.

Come join us "Falling in Love with Our Savior."

http://www.providencebaptistfellowship.com/

Monday, October 20, 2008

Alycia is...17!

Happy Birthday!

Today at 2:18 Alycia Dawn Noland is 17. It is a little hard for me to say. When she turned 16 it was all about the driving. Seventeen is all about the year before she is an adult. Wow! Where has all the time gone. When I look at Alycia she is still my little girl...the little girl that would snuggle up in my lap when she was tired, the little girl that needed me when she skinned her knees, the little girl that practiced her Bible verse with me on the way to church, the little girl that crawled in bed with me to watch the old shows, the little girl that always had a smile for me and everybody else has grown into a wonderful young woman.

She didn't come into this world easy. She was three weeks overdue so I was ready for her to come. I went into labor around 5 a.m. on the the nineteenth of October and didn't have her until 2:18 on the 20th. She was delivered by an emergency c-section. What started out being one of the scariest times for Kenny and I ended with a wonderful blessing from God. It seems like just yesterday they handed her to me and in the next few years we will be handing her into the world. I am proud of Alycia and all the things she has overcome. Sometimes I find myself wishing I could have her strength. Today we are going to celebrate the 6,205 days that she has blessed our lives.

Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday Alycia, Happy Birthday to you!!

Love, Mom & Dad

These pictures were not approved by the birthday girl. I am sure as soon as she sees them they will change. HaHa!:) All I can say is I love both pictures.

Saturday, October 18, 2008

Go...Falcons...Go!

Just a proud mom bragging a little...

Today was the long anticipated cheerleading competition. In the past two weeks they practiced 28 hours. I thought I was going to die and all I did was sit and watch. This year has been a struggle for this group of girls but today all their hard work paid off. They placed first in all of the categories and won overall Grand Champs.

I am so proud of these girls. Kacey's smile says it all.

Friday, October 17, 2008

Thanksgiving

Aaahhh Thanksgiving...

Last week I said that I wish I had cooked some sweet potatoes and Kacey piped up and said, "you can't do that!" That's for Thanksgiving and it wouldn't be as good or special if we had them today. Wouldn't it be great if every day had the feeling of Thanksgiving. I guess if it did...Well you know it wouldn't be so special.

I was drinking coffee this morning while Wags was walking and it hit me that Thanksgiving is not far off. I love Thanksgiving! Food, fun and family. I doesn't get any better than that. As stressful as Christmas is with all of the rushing around Thanksgiving is just good family fun. A lot of cooking, laughing, parades, football and best of all leftovers. Nothing like some leftover dressing...Mmm, Mmm Good!

These pic's are from Thanksgiving 07'. They make me feel thankful and very blessed.
Well let the count down begin. Forty-one days till Thanksgiving!

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Fall

Happy Fall Ya'll

This is one of my favorite times of the year so I thought I would change a few things around. (My Blog back round) I am so ready for change and really just sick of the way things are going in the world. (Presidential race and economy. YUK!) I was needing a little pick me up and nothing seems to pick me up like a new outfit. Didn't want to go shopping so I thought this would do me just as good. I was right this little change worked.

I went out on my back porch. The fall breeze is blowing and the leaves are falling quickly. It is so beautiful. I just sat out there with my coffee and enjoyed Gods beauty.

Go out and enjoy Gods gift to us all...Fall!

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

God will provide!

After my last post I told myself that I would not do anything else political. Well...Sorry.
Just one more. I received an e-mail and it really got me to thinking.

Why I Can't Vote For Obama -By Huntley Brown
...In an election there are many issues to consider but when a society gets abortion, same-sex marriage, embryonic stem-cell research, and human cloning to name a few...economic concerns will soon not matter.

So what does all this mean for the nation? In the past when someone with the beliefs of Obama lead a nation it meant one thing - judgment.

-Read 1 Samuel 8 when Israel asked for a king. First God says in 1 Samuel 1:9 "Now listen to them; but warn them solemnly and let them know what the king who will reign over them will do."

-Then God says 1 Samuel 1:18 '"When that day comes, you will cry out for relief from the king you have chosen, and the LORD will not answer you in that day."
-19 But the people refused to listen to Samuel. "No!" they said. "We want a king over us."

-20 "Then we will be like all the other nations, with a king to lead us and to go out before us and fight our battles."

-21 When Samuel heard all that the people said, he repeated it before the LORD.

-22 The LORD answered, "Listen to them and give them a king."...

Mr. Brown brought up many good points in his e-mail. He made me think about how God fits into this whole equation. God is everything!

How would I explain my vote to God? Wow! Think about that for a minute...then be truthful to yourself. Remember that God is always in control and He always provides.

My choice this election is McCain-Palin, not because they are republican and I feel that is the only way to vote, not that I feel like they are a great choice, not that I want a woman to be second in command, and not that I think that they will get our economy going in the right direction. My choice is McCain-Palin because I feel that they support not legalizing abortion, they will keep marriage between one man and one woman, and they will support Israel. I am choosing them in support of my God. The economy is the economy and I don't know why I even worry...He always provides.

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!