Should we Reveal all our Personality Traits to each other?

God is the only constant variable in my life. At any time friends, family, home and everything else can be taken away. Because Christ is my Savior I can forever rest assured He's with me every step of the way. The peace, love and joy I've found in Christ Jesus is the single most important gift I want to share with others all the days of my life.

That being said, we all still have an ugly sin nature. When sin gets the best of me it reminds me of how thankful I am to have the Holy Spirit guiding and directing me, unless I choose to yank those reins out of God's hands. A few months ago I revealed one of those times to a friend, so she could see how sinful I can be. That revelation was overwhelming to her and did more damage than good. I simply wanted to show her the only good in me is because of Christ Jesus.

I have been labeled by counselors in the past as having post traumatic stress disorder. That "label" means that if anyone backs me into a corner, slams me with certain phrases or actions I will verbally and may physically defend myself. My reactions can be more aggressive and distasteful than few people have ever seen, or heard me do before. I'm not proud of this part of my personality, but it's there because of past horrible events. This coping defense is my mind's way of protecting my body, mind and soul.

The sin's I struggle with may not be things you struggle with at all. We are put together to help each other grow. Iron sharpens iron. Neither of us are better or worse than the other because of differences.

Please read Romans 7:14-25 I am not going to write all that here, you can read it and glean what you need from it.

"Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, on the one hand I myself am serving the law of God, but on the other, with my flesh the law of sin."

Romans 7:25 (NASB)

This verse sums it up so well!

The thought I'd like to close with is this, those inner defenses I have do have a purpose with a reason. But if I could let go and let God keep the reins during those times I could defend myself without slanderous slurs. As far as physically defending myself- there are times when it is necessary. God doesn't want us to give up and let others kill us. I am eternally grateful that God accepts me where I am today. He continues to work on and through me, in spite of my short falls.

How can we help each other if we are not honest about everything? That being said some things are better left unsaid at certain times. Acceptance and understanding along with Biblical guidance are required to help each other.

(The picture above is Heidi and Neva. Sister in laws and best friends :D )

Can you Praise Him in the Worst of Times?

Yesterday was just an ominous day at Emory. Before I even sat down in the waiting room I was greeted by another gaging patient who had just had a "NG" tube put in in the bathroom. Bless her heart she was gagging for all she was worth. NG tubes are horrible- I've had a few of those insertions myself. If you're awake, when the doctor inserts them, it is especially horrible.

(A "NG" tube is a small flexible tube that is inserted through your nose, runs through your esophagus down to your stomach. It is used to empty the contents of your stomach, it's inserted when they want you to stop throwing up. Which seems very crude, obviously it's easier to throw up rather than blow chunks through a tube out your nose. However, it does stop that gastric upheaval.)

As I entered the waiting room the mood became even darker. The atmosphere reminded me of what a concentration camp must have felt like-many skinny bodies with long sad faces, some balding from toxic chemicals. Some how I manage to stay on the plump side. Obviously ice cream and your prayers are the answer! Bet you're not surprised! I've always loved both. :) For a moment, I felt like bolting out of there, but I quietly sat down instead.

After my IV was started I learned that the research oncologist who was working on a cure for Crohn's had slipped into eternity last Saturday. She too, had lost the battle with cancer, leaving her husband and 10 year old son behind. Please pray for this family and the grieving staff at Emory. Her positive disposition, friendship and dedication to her work will all be missed by the staff and patients at Emory.

Christians are Not immune to disease, death or sorrow. Jesus never promised to spare our lives from these things. Why should He? Jesus himself gave up his life to pay for our eternal life.

Sin isn't always the culprit for these events either! Christian, as long as you experience a physical life- you will experience a physical death, unless Jesus comes back first. Jesus has promised to be with you through it all, if you've accepted Him. This life is not always going to be a jolly fun ride. The world watches our actions and reactions to every tragedy and triumph. Can they see Jesus being glorified in every event?

Glean as much wisdom as you can from the Bible and take Jesus hand, and hold on tight. Life is a wild ride, but it's ALWAYS better with Jesus by your side.

Sometimes He calms the Storm, but more often He calms His child and goes through the storm with them. Either way you're gonna be okay. One day we will wake up in heaven with perfect minds and bodies. At that point we may even appreciate the struggles because they brought us closer to Christ. Can you praise Him during the sad as well as the glad times?

Father, help us hold tight in the darkest of our nights. Thank you for riding the storms and carrying us close in the worst of times.

The Lord bless you and keep you;

The Lord make His face to shine on you,

And be gracious to you.

The Lord lift up His countenance on you and give you peace.

Numbers 6:24-26 (NIV)

"In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He searches the hearts knows what the mind of what the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.

AND we know that God causes all things to work together for the good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose."

Romans 8: 26-28 (NIV)

Your Kingdom come, Your will be done-not ours, Lord Jesus.

Cast All Your Cares on Him for He Cares for You

"Cast your burden upon the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken." Psalm 55:22 (NIV)

"In peace I will both lie down and sleep, For you alone, O Lord, make me to dwell in safety. " Psalm 4:8 (NIV)

"But I have trusted in the Your loving kindness; My heart shall rejoice in your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, Because He has dealt bountifully with me." Psalms 13:5 & 6 (NIV)

The Bible is full of verses that confirm God's ways that He cares for different believers over the years. As wonderful as all those verses are I feel even more devoted to God because of His love and caring ways He has dealt with my own family, friends and in my life. Can you also think of His caring devotion in your life?

We serve a God who is, not one who was, Awesome, Loving and so Caring. The more you go through in life the closer you can get to Him. Take advantage of the hard times, disasters, triumphs and victories to Praise God from whom All blessings flow. Yes, the hard times can be a blessing, especially if you'll accept them and draw closer to Christ. He loves you, love Him back.

Lord help us to see your loving face in every place we are. Give us your eyes and hands to help others see you too. Use our bodies for your will, not our will. As our creator and sustainer you know what is best for our life, help us seek your will, Lord.

I'll be going in for chemo this morning. Please ask God to help me help others while I'm there. Thank you for your prayers, I'm sure those prayers help get me there and back home safely. Interstate 85 is always an adventure, especially when I'm tired. :D

God bless you Today and Always,

Kathy

How many Believers would have failed Jesus simple request?

Imagine the mental anguish Jesus must have endured before they even lead Him away to be hung on the cross.

"When He arrived at the place, He said to them, "Pray that you may not enter into temptation." Luke 22:40 (NIV)

Then Jesus went into the garden to pray to God the Father. Have you ever felt spiritual pain and sadness? He knew what He was going to have to go through. He dreaded it, but knew it had to be completed because of our sin. Imagine how you would have felt as you approached the sleeping disciples.

"When He rose from prayer, He came to the disciples and found them sleeping from sorrow, and said to them, "Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray that you may not enter into temptation." Luke22:45 and 46 (NIV)

What did Jesus find more painful- the betrayal of beloved friends or the anguish of the cross? For me, the betrayal would have hurt far more than the physical pain. Why couldn't the disciples stay awake and pray as Jesus had asked?

Yesterday, God opened my eyes, we all may have betrayed Him. Depression, physical and mental fatigue and other simple weaknesses weaken our abilities to perform the simplest tasks for our most beloved friends and family. It's so easy to be critical of others, until our eyes are opened to the reality of human weakness.

I have an old friend from high school. This girl is the spitting image of loyalty, devotion and just all the qualities in life Christ Jesus has asked us to be. I don't know too many more people who are so loving and devoted. If Martha asked me to do something for her I think I'd jump, and do it.

A while ago, she fell on the ice, cut her leg open and was pretty banged up. I haven't been on face book much- just have been too tired and not feeling like it. I didn't know Martha had fell until I seen it on Face Book. She felt totally betrayed by many, because no one really said much about her fall.

Were the disciples mentally exhausted from the news that Jesus was going away? I'm sure they were-none of it made sense. Why was He talking about suffering and His body being broken and poured out for them? (See Luke 18:31-33 and Luke 22:14-23)

Then Jesus asks them something so simple, to stay awake and pray. They failed and so did I. Something so simple, yet I was tired weak and never even knew. I'm thankful for a forgiving Savior and friends and family who love me in spite of my short comings.

All of God's children are favored in His eyes. We need to remember that our brothers and sisters in Christ, are His beloved children. Yes I know the following verses are abut a "child,' but you are God's child-right?

"Whoever receives this child in My name receives Me, and whoever receives Me receives Him who sent me; for the one who is least among all of you, this is the one who is great." Luke 9:47and 48 (NIV)

What if God had an "A" type personality?

Have you ever wondered what our lives would be like if God had a different personality?

Think about how forgiving, accepting and loving God is. He always loves us where we are. He doesn't tolerate sin, but sends The Holy Spirit to try to turn us from it. There are very few times He abruptly ends a life the first time a person falls short of His plan.

What if God had an "A" type personality? I don't know about you, but my life would have ended long ago if God was staunch and unforgiving. I fall short daily, most of the time it's because I'm unintentionally careless, or tired. Countless times He has spared my life on the road, outside and sometimes even inside during bad asthma attacks, or stupid mistakes I make.

On the other hand what if God was extremely carefree and non attentive. Who would save us from the blunders? How long would any of us have live if our God was too busy to watch our every move?

I'm very thankful that He is all knowing, yet so loving and compassionate to accept and protect in spite of our personality flaws. God's compassion inspires me to be more accepting and forgiving of others. Lord, "please give all your children "Your eyes." We need to see and love others the way you do Father."

"For if you forgive others for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others , then your heavenly Father will not forgive your transgressions." Matthew 6:14 & 15 (NIV)

We all can be both "bold" and "meek"

"By the meekness and gentleness of Christ, I appeal to you- "I Paul, who am "timid" when face to face with you, but "bold" when away! I beg that when I come I may not have to be as "bold" when away! 2 Corinthians 10:1 (NIV)

"The weapons we fight with are not weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strong holds. 2 Corinthians 10:4 (NIV)

"We do not dare classify or compare ourselves with someone who commends themselves. When they measure themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise. 2 Corinthians 10:12 (NIV)

"But, "Let him who boasts, boast in the Lord." For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends. "
2 Corinthians 10:18 (NIV)

"For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions,and to live self-controlled , upright, and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope - glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good." Titus 2:11-14 (NIV)

You know I often wonder how many people fall pray to these yodels that call blaring a cruise ship horn in your ear, while they inform you, "Pack your bags, you've just won a a seven night trip on our cruise ship! That's right we'll pay to fly you and your spouse to FLA. where you'll board and stay on our cruise line. You can even pick the date as long as it's within this year."


Sure, I'm willing to drop everything, while my bills keep coming in, to float around out in the ocean with a bunch of jokers I've never met. Of course, I'll try to stay happy when the engines stop working and no one can take a bath. No, I have never really liked Spam, but I'll try not to gag on it when it's all you can provide.
Does anyone ever ask these people who will pay our bills while we're gone? Or could you please inform my employer that I need this vacation? By the way could you ask him to hold off calling any of the 150 other people desperately waiting to work my job after the boss fires me, because ironically, the work doesn't stop even though I leave.
Shoot if given my dream vacation, I'd choose a large sail boat in the Caribbean with an excellent captain, plenty of food and drinks. I'd plan this dream vacation during a month that would come just before the dull drams out in the Caribbean set in. I'd plan to be close to an adventurous island with lagoons, waterfalls and bananas & coconuts. Then if the winds stopped and the sails drooped, at least I'd be happy, even though I was fired! I'd skinny dip and fish every day. Watch the sun come up and go down and make things out of shells and palm trees.

Where would you go?

My point is if something sounds too good to be true, it probably isn't worth pursuing. Paul wasn't a double minded man. He simply stood up for what was right, so should we. Yes, he was bold when he needed to be, I dare say we all need to be that way.

The next time someone points out your boldness remind them that like Paul sometimes we have to be "Bold." Just remember Jesus has also asked us to do all things in love. True strength is often very delicate.

Transending Friendships with no end

An old friend from high school called me last night. What a unique blessing every dear friend is to me. They encourage, help and even when I'm at my worst, like God they always love me. Of all the treasures on this earth, my friends and favorite relations are the best! The way Christ binds us together is a forever bond that needs to be treated as a rare gift. Wrap your mind around that; because we are Family in Christ we can enjoy fellowship with Him and each other forever! That's a love relationship worth sharing and maintaining don't you think?

So how can we maintain those Christian bonds?

First we need to maintain and save our primary devotion to Jesus by studying and following what the Bible advises daily. Walk closely to God in prayer and meditation. When we fail short we need to ask forgiveness and stop performing the sin. Recognize the warning signs of trouble. The Holy spirit will prompt you, God hates sin, but you have to consciously change what is coming. Sometimes it's necessary to get away from from the temptation, aggravation or thought. Because I have a short fuse, and certain areas of temptation have to do this often.

If you've sinned against someone else you need to apologize, do not wait for them to come to you. In some situations, it's best to shake the dirt off your shoes and severe the relationship. Some relationships can not be restored because there will never be common ground again. Relationships with nonbelievers can begin on shaky ground that will crumble, unless Christ becomes the foundation, they are not likely to withstand the tests and trials of time.

Encourage one another with positive thoughts in Christ. There are so many positive things in our lives. Even in the worst of times we all can find positive things to think about and share with other believers. Everyone needs Son shine in their life. :) I have so many wonderful people who will send a card, or just call me, just when I need it the most. I wonder if they know how much I appreciate their wonderful love and friendship? Little things like that make bad days so much brighter, God bless you and keep you always. You know I love you, too.

Hugs and a kiss on the cheek are such a blessing for both people involved. Please, don't be stingy with your love, it will come back to you at least three times over. Love eases so many heart aches.

Finally, you must always keep an open mind and heart. Forgive often, so many times things are over looked, misrepresented by a look, lack of thankfulness or just postponed, unintentionally. Life can get so busy we all often feel swept away by the "have to things in life." (You know- the cleaning, fixing and maintaining we must do things in life.) It doesn't mean we didn't want to, there simply isn't enough time for everything we want to.

Sometimes when people are sick it's so hard to accomplish the simplest of things. The will is there, but the body or mind can't muster the strength to accomplish the simplest tasks. Chemo has really taught me this-some days I barely muster the gumption to get meals and dishes done for Mark. It's frustrating to be so weak and tired, but it's where God has put me for now, so I have to find the good in weakness, does that make sense? Sometimes I just spend the day being held in God's grace close to His face. It's so warm and cozy there, but little gets done around here. The blogs aren't written, and some of the have to's are not even done. Like a bride preparing to spend eternity with her groom, even this time has it's place, covered in His grace. :D

"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 believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. According to the Lord's own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord,will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven,with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage each other with these words."
1st Thessalonians 4:13-18 (NIV)

With everything that is happening in this world today-riots, chaos, destruction, wars and more rumors of war, is there any doubt that Jesus return will happen soon? There shouldn't be any doubt; are you ready, or will you be left behind? Make sure your soul is secure in Christ Jesus. If you're unsure Please contact me, I will help you make sure you are ready today.

sunnyfunfish@aol.com