Stay Focused on Christ and His Will for Your Life

"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory, that will be revealed in us. The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed in us."
                                                                                                                  Romans 8:18 &19 (NASB)

One of the most painful memories in life is watching our loved ones suffer physically or mentally. If we could, we'd gladly bare their pain for at least a while to give them a break if we could. Often, the disease or circumstance remains until God calls them home.

Those of us who know Christ as our Savior and Lord have an eternal peace because we have been justified and forgiven by faith in Christ. His grace also gives us a hope and promise that this life is not the end, but the beginning of an awesome eternity with Him in heaven.

Growing in Christ is sometimes painful, (both physically and spiritually.)  Most of us will experience the pain of loosing loved ones, our own physical disease and decay and sometimes an emptiness that can only be filled by Christ. All three of these circumstances can draw us closer to Christ,  if we let them.

"...We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance, character, and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us.
                                                                                                                Romans 5:5 (NASB)

Ironically, there have been days my body has been stretched beyond what I thought ever possible to live through. God gives the strength, grace and love to endure a little more. Because of those times my faith, endurance, and even my peace about His Will for my life is at a deeper trusting level. Horrible storms in life have a beautiful way of developing a deep secure relationship in Christ.

Maybe when our loved ones are experiencing hard times we could encourage them to let Jesus cradle their broken bodies. If they're close enough to God and want to describe the tender lessons they're learning- absorb everything they're sharing. God may also want to comfort your hurting heart through their life and love they're willing to share. These maybe some of the most tender lessons you'll learn together.Knowing your loved one is at peace, will give you peace.

Please hug and hold them if they want to be held. I love being held by the people I'm closest to.(Honestly though, there are times when it hurts too much to be held. Most people will let you know if you ask.)  Reading comforting verses may also help, ask them if they'd like to hear Bible passages.

In my own life looking back at both the good and bad that has made me who I am Paul's words describe how I feel the best!

"My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge."
                                                                                                              Colossians 2:2 & 3 (NASB)

"For though I am absent from the body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how orderly you are and how firm your faith in Christ is."                     Colossians 2:5  (NASB)

Finally, I would encourage you to read and take to heart Hebrews chapters 12 and 13. Throw off everything that hinders and brings you down. You are surrounded by "the great cloud of witnesses." (Those treasured saints who are already in God's presence, they are cheering you on to grow and become all God wants you to be for His Glory and your true gain!)

At What Point Do We Walk Away?

I'm frustrated, at what "point" do we say, "Okay, that's it-I'm done with you?" I have a very redneck, mouthy sister who my parents choose to baby and coddle beyond belief. She was in an accident which left her with some physical scars. She did have a head injury, but currently there is no reason for her abrasive, mule ways. She simply chooses to be the biggest jerk I've ever met.

While I was at my mother's she took every opportunity she possibly could to interrupt every conversation I was in. When she addressed me she was constantly loud and crude. My parents continue to tell me I need to include and embrace her. All I want to do is to get as far away from her as I can. No confrontation with her or my parents; that's be the easiest way out. We all know that will not resolve the fact that they'll all come back saying I'm trying to avoid her-and I am.

There is no easy solution while she cackles as she makes my life miserable. She has my parents in her sorry back pocket. While all this is going on my parents refuse to acknowledge her abusive ways. She also has one of her son's who is following her example, diving into grouse sins, that are affecting many other lives. Is our family contributing to these grouse sins which affect many lives besides just my sister and her son? I think so.

So do I call them all on the carpet or just tell them all I have a gut full and can't take anymore? Your advice would be greatly appreciated, thanks.

"Do not be deceived,God is not mocked; for whatever a man so this he will also reap." Galatians 6:7 (NASB)

Are you thankful for the Holy Spirit's prompting in your life?

The morning glories on my back porch remind me how much we should keep our heart where it belongs-with God. When they're watered well the grow and spread so very fast. When I fail to check on them they tend to head directly for everything they shouldn't like my yellow roses. Growing side by side they look great, but when they becme intwined well life isn't so divine. In fact-they will choke the roses to death, if they're allowed to just keep wraping their vines around the rose stems.

My life can be like that. As long as I allow the Holy Spirit toguide and direct me I will stay on track, but sometimes I just head off in the wrong direction and keep going, until God gently prods me back to His track. I'm very thankful for the Holy Spirit aren't you?

Yellow roses and deep lavander morning glories look and grow great together as long as their is respect for each others growing space. Christian relationships are like that too. We all need our time and space alone with God. It's great to grow together as long as the Holy Spirit guides and directs our paths.

"But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to rememberance all that I have said to you. Do not let your heart be troubled , nor let it be fearful." John 14:26 (NASB)

Life in Christ-God's Greatest Blessing on Your Life!

"How blessed is everyone who fears the Lord, Who walks in His ways. When you shall eat of the fruit of your hands, You will be happy and it will be well with you. Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine Within your house, Your children are like olive plants Around your table. Behold, for thus shall the man be blessed Who fears the Lord.

The Lord bless you from Zion, And may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life. Indeed, may you come to see your children's children. Peace be upon Isreal!" Psalm 128 (NASB)

Do you ever consider how blessed we are to walk in God's light? Personally knowing our creator and sustainer eases the tensions of life with His help. As we release our will to His will, life falls into place as it should. Burdens are lifted with Grace and peace replaces a heavy yoke.

"Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you andd learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30 (NASB)

"The fear of the Lord prolongs life, But the years of the wicked will be shortened."
Proverbs 10:27 (NASB)

"The way of the Lord is a stronghold to the upright, But ruin to the workers of iniquity." Proverbs 10:29 (NASB)

We were made in God's image. If we live life on His terms, we should be the happiest most fulfilled beings, because we are living the way He designed us to be. Before you were born God had a plan for your life. Glorifying Him will make you happy and satisfied all the days of your life!

"The Lord lives, and blessed be my rock; And exalted be the God of my salvation,"
2nd Samuel 22:47 (NASB)

Read Second Samuel chapter 22, this passage is truly a believers blessing! The day you accepted Jesus as your personal Savior you gained Everything in life you would ever need. Spring forth with confidence, good cheer and know you are a winner in Christ Jesus!

What is the Differerence between Clean and Un Clean;Do you Know?

I'm always amazed how different societies think they can out whit, or out maneuver God. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. Man has not evolved into a better species. In fact, I'd dare say society seems more ignorant today than they were a generation ago. I was in Walmart this morning. A small child about 3 stood in the middle of an isle, playing with an adult kitchen utensil, she could have easily been injured. I stopped the cart waiting for the mother, or father to take the object away from her. After 3 to 5 minutes the mother did reach down and take the sharp grater away from her, but left the little girl setting in the middle of the isle. At that point I asked, "Would you mind moving your daughter, so she doesn't get hurt setting there?"

Honestly, I've seen deer in headlights with more sense than these two parents, "Oh, okay." That's a prime example of why children should be raised and not hatched. Little by little we give up more of doing what is right, there will be a price for the lack of responsibility. The down hill slide is quickly coming to an end.

As our nation fails to teach our children about God, His ways and keep pulling away from God, He will bring this society to an end.

Read Ezekiel 22. Israel has always been his chosen people, but He is just with All. He will be just with America as well.

"Behold, then, I smite My hand at your dishonest gain which you have acquired and at the bloodshed which is among you. Can your heart endure, or can your hands be strong in the days I will deal with you? I the Lord have spoken and will act. I will scatter you among the nations and will disperse you through the lands, and I will consume your uncleanness from you. You will profane yourself in the sight of the nations, and you will know that I am the Lord."
Ezekiel 22:13-16 (NASB)

"Son of man, say to her, "You are a land that is not cleansed or rained on in the day of indignation.' There is a conspiracy of her prophets in her midst like a roaring lion tearing the prey. They have devoured lives; they have taken treasure and precious things; they have made many widows in the midst of her. Her priests have done violence to my law and have profaned My holy things; they have made no distinction between the holy and the profane, and they have not taught the difference between the unclean and the clean, and they hide their eyes from My Sabbaths, and I am profaned among them. Ezekiel 22:24-26 (NASB)

Just because God seems silent, do not take that for His toleration. He patiently hopes we will turn around. If we choose not to turn back to Him, God will punish us as well.

"Thus I have poured out My indignation them; I have consumed them with the fire of My wrath; their way I have brought upon their heads, declares the Lord God." Ezekiel 22:31 (NASB)

Do you know the difference between clean and unclean? Can you discern between what is holy and unholy? Are you observing the Sabbath Day and keeping it holy? The Only way you will know is to study God's word and seek His guidance through His Word-the Bible.

If the church you are going to is practicing immoral sex acts inside it's congregation, stealing from the elderly for the churches dishonest gain, or doing other dirty acts get away from that group of people. They are unclean, wolves in sheep's clothing.

If you want to please God seek Him through the Bible first, attend a Bible preaching and practicing church. Do Not be deceived by wolves in sheep's clothing. You are accountable to God.

Does Chivalry Still Live?

Yes, it does. I saw it in my son last Friday.

I never regret spending quality time alone with each one of my children. Each time I do I find awesome God instilled qualities in each one of them. Michael was in GA. for an important interview last Friday. He has recently completed a mechanical engineer degree, and desires to put it to use here in GA. How we'd love to have both Mike and Neva back.

Latter that day Mike asked me to ride along while he tied up some loose ends, so we spent time talking. We stopped at a gas station for some gas. He noticed a lady who couldn't start her car. An older gentleman was trying to jump start her, but simply couldn't get her started.

Slowly, Michael approached the two. "How's it going?'

"Not very well, I've been working on this for over 20 minutes now. I can't get it going. I don't know what else to do."

Mike smiled and nodded. "Mam, do you mind if I take a look at it?"

"Please do."

The older man took off and Mike stood there looking the car over. He looked up, "Mam, you have a extra amp wire here that was improperly installed. It probably drained your battery completely dead. Could I unhook it, clean your cables off and then try to give you a jump?"

"Yes, please do."

Within 5 short minutes Michael had her car running again. "Mam, you need a new battery. After you get a new battery you should have that amp wire installed correctly."

"How much do I owe you?"

"Nothing, just get yourself a new battery. :) "

For a brief moment, I saw that white knight he use to finger paint on a white horse which often decorated my refrigerator door when he was little. But in place of the finger paint, there he was..my beloved son in whom I am so well pleased with. Who would have know how God would have stamped so much love, grace and wisdom on my beautiful son. But that's my Awesome God, stamping His ways through living, loving and growing through the years!

"A plan in the heart of a man is like deep water, but a man of understanding draws it out.

Many a man proclaims his own loyalty, But who can find a trust worthy man?

A righteous man who walks in integrity-How blessed are his sons after him.

Proverbs 20:5-7 (NASB)

God calls Husbands to be the Head of the House

"Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him." Proverbs 30:5

I began reading, "The Fruit of Her Hands," by Nancy Wilson this morning. I never really thought too much about how much a wife can influence her husband's life by how she treats him. But then that makes perfect sense in another way. Most of us marry for companionship, a love life and to commit a life long journey relationship with a person we'd like to spend the rest of our life with. Of all the people in the world you need your spouses acceptance and love more than anyone Else's.

She brought up the fact that if we have a good opinion of our spouse they should feel good about them self. A positive outlook will make both partners more productive, happy and the relationship will continue to grow and blossom into a beautiful life together.

She mentioned another very important fact, every husband should be the head of the home. Sometimes this is a difficult thing for Mark and I. He simply does not like leading. I jump in all to quickly- to save the day. God designed women to follow their husbands not lead them. I do not want to be lead, but my patience will only wait a short time before I jump up to take the reigns. Sometimes those eager beaver moves cost us in more ways than one.

God made no mistakes in placing the husband as the head of the marriage. Please pray for me to learn to wait for Mark's direction. Everyone is happier and healthier obeying God's commands.

Likewise you wives, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct accompanied by the fear of the Lord." 1 Peter 3:1-3

We all fall short of the glory of God. No wife has a reason to seek out a new leader just because you married one without leading skills. We need to ask God to prompt those leadership qualities. Praising him when he does take the lead will help too.

I'll ask for God's blessing on all of us in this area of our lives. I guess a good cheerleader is always needed in family life, friendships and in God's family! Encouragement inspires desire to do well!

God bless you!