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Christian Living, Praise, Thankful

Tell me something good monday – attitude

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“That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;”
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭1:10‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Good Morning and Happy Monday! What good news do you have to share today? I had a productive and restful weekend. I was able to spend time with my friends at the gym, and catch up on a little work at home. I can’t wait to hear about your “something good!”

Do you ever find yourself doing God’s work because you “have to?” You know, when you are so busy or there’s something else you want to do, but you feel obligated to help at church or something else that you may have made a commitment to do, or even worse, something God has called you to do. I once felt called to speak to a homeless man at church. Every week he showed up, and it never seemed to be the right time. I found out a couple of weeks ago that he was in jail for failure to register as a child sexual predator. Interestingly, I never had that gut feeling when I was around him. Now, it is probably too late, and I may never have another opportunity with this individual. Would I have made a difference? Who knows.

This morning I’m reminded of the parable of the prodigal son. The older son stayed home and worked with his father, while the younger son sewed his wild oats. However, the older son had a bitter and jealous heart. He failed to realize that he had his father every day. People are always more important and special than things. When the younger son came home and the father celebrated, the older son was bitter.

Colossians 1:10 reminds us how important our attitude is to God. When we are going through our routines to check actions off our todo list, but don’t have the right attitude in our hearts, God knows. The same thing happens when we are taking action to get attention and be in the spotlight. However, it is deeply satisfying to us and God when our actions emanate from our soul. Serving God is pleasing unto Him, when we have the right attitude.

Have a wonderful Monday and keep a positive attitude in everything you do. May God bless you.

Blessings, Christian Living, Faith, Family, Friends, happiness

Try something new Tuesday – encouragement

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“and let us consider [thoughtfully] how we may encourage one another to love and to do good deeds,”
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭10:24‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Happy Tuesday! When everything starts getting routine in our lives, it’s a great time to try something new. What will you try?

One thing I have noticed that is important to everyone is to have encouragement during our trials, and when we feel especially weak. How long does it take for you to be worn down after a long day of work when the house is mess and the kids are begging? How about when your grown kids need help, but so do your parents?

Everyone is going through different struggles in their lives all the time. At the end of the day there are two things that matter: God and people. Things are not what is most important. Sometimes it is difficult to find a balance between work and caring for family. That’s when we need to ask God for help and truly depend on Him to help us.

A friend of mine recently lost her mother. It has been difficult for her. Not only does she need encouragement, she needs help with housework and her kids. As a Christian family this is when we need to pitch in to make a difference. Together we can help one another without wearing ourselves too thin.

Recently I have been humbled by my friends and how much support they have shown me with my new book. People I never expected have come out to help. It is wonderful to help and receive help.

Have a great Tuesday. May God Bless You!


Blessings, Christ's light, Christian Living, happiness, Journey

Two for Tuesday – Adversity and Truthful Witness

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“The Lord’s justice will dwell in the desert, his righteousness live in the fertile field. The fruit of that righteousness will be peace; its effect will be quietness and confidence forever.”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭32:16-17‬ ‭NIV‬‬

It’s Try Something New Tuesday. Yesterday, my saved post disappeared. So, today, I’m trying a two-for-one special.

Have you ever thought “can things get any worse?” If you have, you are not alone. Unfortunately, the answer is YES! Take a look around. The more I listen to others, the more I realize things can be much worse. Yet, you may wonder why God’s people go through adversity. Jesus, himself, lived through horrible circumstances, including torture, before dying and being resurrected. Being a Christian doesn’t exempt us from adversity. However, adversity can further us in our spiritual journeys. We could never really understand the darkness others go through, if everything was always wonderful. Once we have lived through what we think is bad, we need to remember how it felt. Why? So we can be a blessing to others while they are going through the same.

Have you ever wanted someone to notice or recognize an accomplishment? Well, if your answer is yes, you are not alone. This is something I work on daily. When I have worked hard on a project, sometimes, I wish just one person would notice. The truth is they do. It is not necessary for them to validate my need for praise. Last week a coworker compared me to another person. She said we both needed attention, but I do good things to get attention. The other person, in contrast, does bad things to get attention. YIKES! I never thought of it that way. Although I said I was doing things to glorify God, I wasn’t bearing truthful witness.

What does it mean to be a truthful witness? It means you are someone who glows in the glory of doing God’s work. There is no need for praise or blame. Pure satisfaction is found solely in doing God’s work, whatever we are called to do. To bear truthful witness is to live in the peace of the LORD. Doesn’t that sound awesome! Although I’m not sure if anyone, other than Jesus, has been a perfect truthful witness, my husband is very good at this. Even if we are not always perfect, we can work to improve ourselves. This is one of the best ways to witness God’s love to others.

Today, imagine the Glory of God shining down upon you as you do his work. May God bless you.

Blessings, Christian Living, Faith, Family, Forgiveness, Gratitude, Random acts of kindness

Spread the Love Friday – Enjoy and Let God’s Word Shape Your Perspective

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“That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;”
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭1:10-11‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Isn’t it great to wake up and realize it’s Friday! I woke up today dancing a jig right out the door. Yes, I have a lot of work to do at home and the office. Yet, there is a little bit of happiness knowing a break is ahead for some fun and relaxation. This weekend I have my list of things to do, but plan to go outside a bit and breathe in the air, while I admire my surroundings. If you haven’t tried it before, even five minutes outside can improve your mood and outlook. Bring a friend and spread the love.

This morning as I was thinking about how wonderful Fridays are, I realized that I was letting events decide my perspective. How many times have I started the day happy, and something kind of spoiled the rest of the day? Of course, I know the old saying that “it’s not what happens but how you react” that’s important. However, today I was reminded of Colossians 1:10-11.

Colossae was a City located about 100 miles from Ephesus and near Laodicea. In Paul’s letter to the early Christians in the church of Colossae, they instructed them to be strengthened in God’s word. We can look to scripture for every occasion, but today I would like to encourage you to instead of letting what happens around you affect your attitude, pause and think of what God’s word says. Find your strength there. Joy is an action and choice we all have regardless of what’s happening around us. When we express joy we are also able to be more patient, kind and loving.

Have a wonderful Friday! May God continue to bless you!

Blessings, Caring, Christian Living, Do what's right, Faith, Gratitude

Use Your Gifts to Change the World Wednesday – Remember Others

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“Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭37:4‬ ‭KJV‬‬

It’s Use Your Gifts to Change Your World Wednesday! What will you do? Making a difference doesn’t have to take a lot of time or money. It can be something as simple as a hug.

Today, a lady I worked with shared how she took her mother to the hospital late last night, because her mom was very ill. On the way home after her mother was discharged, she met up with her niece and the niece’s friend. They asked for a ride home. After my colleague agreed, she wound up driving to another town to take the niece’s friend home. Rather than becoming angry, she made conversation with the young man, who was 17 and supporting his entire family. The young man was working and attending high school. He was excited to share that he will be the first person in his family to graduate from high school. While my colleague was tired, she made a difference in this young man’s life, as well as, providing help to her mother and an example for her children.

Never forget to help others. May God bless you.

https://youtu.be/qR8_ROGud1c

Caring, Change the World, Christian Living, Creole, Emotional pain and suffering

Use Your Gifts to Change the World Wednesday – Choices

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For if I do this work of my own free will, then I have a reward; but if it is not of my will [but by God’s choosing], I have been entrusted with a [sacred] stewardship.
‭‭1 CORINTHIANS‬ ‭9:17‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Good morning!  We are so thankful to have survived the storm with no damage.  Today, Britt and I are celebrating our anniversary a little late by spending the day together.

The subject of “choices” is heavy on my mind.  God is a respecter of people.  He gives us free-will.  Yet, we struggle with our choices.    How many times have you been in the store or maybe on the Internet shopping, and seen something you feel like you can’t live without?  You can’t afford it, but really want it. Have you ever juggled bills mentally?  I am reminded of a time that I fell in love with a special Bible.  It was beautiful.  The pages were embossed with roses.  There were beautiful images in the Bible and I loved the way the synthetic pink leather felt.   For a year I visited the book store and walked around carrying the Bible like it was a baby.  Every time I put the Bible back on the shelf and didn’t purchase it for myself.   I did, however, buy the Bible as a gift for someone else. The recipient seemed pleased at the time, but I later learned that they didn’t like it.  One day I was driving down the road and saw the book store was closing.  I rushed over, but the Bible was gone.  As soon as I got home from work, I searched the Internet and found one for half the price on Amazon.  I ordered it right away and felt that immediate contentment.  The next day I learned it was on back order.  It stayed on back order for six months.  However, individuals were selling the once $40 Bible ($25 on Amazon) for over $2,000.  I gave up and ordered  a similar Bible, which I didn’t need.  The next day the Bible I wanted shipped out.  I ended up spending $50 for two Bibles I didn’t need.  Yet, I was excited to receive my beautiful Bible.  Guess what?  It’s untouched in the same place I set it when it arrived.  The truth is I have several Bibles and I didn’t need another Bible, especially because it looked pretty.  Bad financial decisions are painful down the road and take a toll on relationships.  In fact, how many divorces have you noted due to finances?

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Have you ever fallen in love and wanted to give into physical desires when you weren’t married?  It seems commonplace now, but Paul covers this sin of the flesh in the Book of Galatians.  Maybe you have already succumbed to the passion and now you are in a difficult situation related to that decision?  Or maybe you are stressed at home and a pretty face provides a temptation you are unable to resist.  Have you resorted to crime in order to feed your family?  Have you ever been faced with a difficult ethical decision at work? Have you made bad decisions in how you treat others?

The  list goes on and on.  Not only do your decisions affect you, but also others.  Even if no one knows about your bad decision, your attitude and actions will show what is going on inside of you. Some decisions take many years to overcome.  Some decisions may change your life forever or even result in a physical death.

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So, what do you do?  You can’t be indecisive for long periods of time.  The answer is accept Christ as your personal savior. Build a good relationship with God.  Study your Bible daily.  Build relationships with other Christians.  Then, when you have an important decision, ask for God’s guidance.  It’s that simple!  What a super gift!  Yet, it does take a little effort every day.  The good news is that if you have made bad decisions, and we all have, you can ask for forgiveness and realize that it takes time overcome bad decisions.

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Have a wonderful Wednesday and spread God’s love everywhere you go.  God bless you.

Clarifying note.  After I posted today, my husband pointed out that the Bible tells us in Acts 10:34-35 that “God is no respecter of persons”.  However, the phrase is used in a different context.  My reference was in regard to personal free-will.  God respects our free-will.  Acts 10 is referencing God showing no partiality.

Blessings, Christian Living, Faith, happiness, Healthy, Journey, Make a difference

Forgiveness Thursday – New Beginnings

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Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.  Romans 8:1

Good morning.  It is hard to wake up on cold mornings, but there are many opportunities for us today.  So, join me in embracing the present.

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Do you have something in your past that makes you feel bad about yourself?  Do you feel like you are unworthy of God’s love?  Everyone one has something they feel ashamed about, but the good news is God loves you.  Jesus provided the redemption you need.  All you have to do is ask for forgiveness and forgive yourself.  While you are forgiving yourself, forgive others.  You will feel better when you release your guilt and grudges.

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Have a great day.  God bless you.

Christian Living, Flawless, Forgiveness, Gratitude, Journey, Praise, Prayer, Thankful

Use Your Gifts to Change the World Wednesday – Help Others

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I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.  Jeremiah 31:25

Good morning and Happy Wednesday!  For some of us this means we are half way through our work week.  It’s a beautiful, but cold spring morning in Florida.  The Dogwoods, Bradford Pears and Azaleas are in full bloom.  It’s beautiful here.

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Today is a good day to remember to give back to others.  It doesn’t have to be anything big.  It might be a hug or helping someone with a daily task.  Maybe you could help a sick neighbor with their yard work, or help a new mom so that she can get some rest.  If that is too much for you, pay the bill for the person behind you in the fast food line.  Take a friend a cup a coffee.  One of the best ways to give is to give your time.  It means so much more than money.  Go see a shut-in.  Have lunch with a distant relative.  Take time out of your day to help someone else.

Have a wonderful Wednesday.  God bless you.

Christian Living, Faith, Forgiveness, happiness, Love others, Praise, Random acts of kindness, Refresh, Thankful

Spread the Love Friday – More Experiences, More Great Stories

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Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭51:11‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Good afternoon.  I’m resting at home today with a cold.  I’ve been pushing hard the last few weeks.  Many mornings I’ve been getting up at 3ish am, and working from 7 am to 9pm.   Well, sometimes life requires us to step it up, but after a while, this type of schedule will wear us down.  The good news is I have had some wonderful experiences and heard some awesome stories that I am pleased to share with you. The bad news is I will be continuing with this schedule until the beginning of March.  Please forgive me if I miss posting and I’m not able to keep up with your posts as much.

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Over the past few weeks, I have spoken before countless groups.  All have been wonderful experiences.  One person told me a story that really touched me.  I don’t want to reveal his identity, so I’m going to refer to him as Richard.  Richard works as a professional first responder.  He has also taught classes at a local college.  Richard was driving from out-of-town one day when he saw a little old lady on the side of the road with her broken down car.  Seconds after he passed the car, he heard a voice that said “you wouldn’t have kept driving if that had been your grandmother.”  Richard looked around and of course, no one was there.  So he traveled back to help the lady.  She hugged him tightly and cried, “I had just asked God to send someone who could help me.”  Richard looked down and his shirt was covered with makeup.  He feared his wife wouldn’t understand.  Then, someone else stopped with tools to help.  It was one of Richard’s former students.  What were the chances of this happening with Richard being out-of-town?  Even with a helping hand, the group needed water for car.  They had a bottle, but no water nearby.  That’s when they noticed an old dilapidated house that was falling down a few hundred feet away.  Richard walked over and was able to get water from an old well.  The lady, Richard and his student were soon on their way.  Yes, if you wish, you can explain this away.  Folks, it’s the fact that God in his perfect timing worked out the details.  I was touched by this story and I hope you will find it comforting.

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Yesterday, I was afforded an unique opportunity.  One of the people I was recently able to get to know, allowed me to sit in on a sermon review.  I had never heard of this, so I was intrigued.  This particular minister has multiple churches spread over many miles. What he does is rehearse and film his sermons at the same time.  So, if there is a problem with streaming on Sunday morning, he has a backup plan.  Also, he has a group of people in the audience who work in his churches critiquing his sermons to ensure he reaches and communicates effectively with everyone – teens, families, older adults, etc.  He invites others to sit in, as well.  That’s what I did.  The minister and his staff were very welcoming.  The sermon was wonderful. I loved it! He had great ideas.  Afterwards, he came over and spoke with me.  He even invited my critique.  I backed out of that part, but I may make this my late lunch time on Thursdays because it was refreshing.  You see, even when we are in our busiest seasons, God continues to open doors.

I pray your Friday will be amazing!  God bless you.

I hope you enjoy these cute videos I found.

Christian Living, Faith, Flawless, Gratitude, Healing, Mercy me

Spread the Love Friday – Flawless

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And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭12:9‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Happy Friday!  This week has been speeding along like a blur, but I’m super glad it’s Friday!  I look forward to sleeping late tomorrow and working on some school work.

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Sometimes I think God reminds me that I should be humble.  After a few trying days at work, God spoke to me through this song by Mercy Me.  It is one of my favorites that I have played when I’ve experienced physical pain.  Guess what!  It’s good for emotional pain too.  The lyrics are below.

There’s got to be more
Than going back and forth
From doing right to doing wrong
‘Cause we were taught that’s who we are
Come on get in line right behind me
You along with everybody
Thinking there’s worth in what you do
Then like a hero who takes the stage when
We’re on the edge of our seats saying it’s too late
Well let me introduce you to amazing grace
No matter the bumps
No matter the bruises
No matter the scars
Still the truth is
The cross has made
The cross has made you flawless
No matter the hurt
Or how deep the wound is
No matter the pain
Still the truth is
The cross has made
The cross has made you flawless
Could it possibly be
That we simply can’t believe
That this unconditional
Kind of love would be enough
To take a filthy wretch like this
And wrap him up in righteousness
But that’s exactly what He did
No matter the bumps
No matter the bruises
No matter the scars
Still the truth is
The cross has made
The cross has made you flawless
No matter the hurt
Or how deep the wound is
No matter the pain
Still the truth is
The cross has made
The cross has made you flawless
Take a breath smile and say
Right here right now I’m ok
Because the cross was enough
And like a hero who takes the stage when
We’re on the edge of our seats saying it’s too late
Well let me introduce you to grace grace
God’s grace
No matter the bumps
No matter the bruises
No matter the scars
Still the truth is
The cross has made
The cross has made you flawless
No matter the hurt
Or how deep the wound is
No matter the pain
Still the truth is
The cross has made
The cross has made you flawless
No matter what they say
Or what you think you are
The day you called His name
He made you flawless
He made you flawless
No matter the bumps
No matter the bruises
No matter the scars
Still the truth is
The cross has made
The cross has made you flawless

The lyrics of this song say it all for me today.  So, as I face Friday, I am comforted that it’s a new day and I can “take a breath, smile and say, right here right now, I’m ok, because the cross was enough”!

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My hope is that you will also find comfort in God’s grace today and everyday.  Spread His love everywhere you go.  God bless you.

 

 

Songwriters: Barry Graul / Bart Millard / Ben Glover / David Arthur Garcia / Mike Scheuchzer / Nathan Cochran / Robby Shaffer / Solomon Olds