Kids Today

I wrote this poems years ago but now our kids are targeted even more than when this was written. With the transgender movement and LBTQ movement we must be vigilant in protecting these vulnerable members of society. Not only is sexual perversion a problem the liberal agenda has targeted our young people in schools and are indoctrinating them into the agenda of the left.

Our children today can read of evolution

and are taught we come from apes.

They can learn of hate and prejudice

are are encouraged to murder and rape.

Family life is becoming obsolete

in this great country today.

Why it's just not cool

to kneel with your family and pray.

Alcohol, drugs, and sex

are the “in” things to do.

The only thing that really matters

is what feels good to you.

Our kids today are taught that sexual perversion

is nothing but an alternative lifestyle,

homosexuality is not a sin--

why I can almost see satan smile.

Our children are exposed to so many of satan's snares,

yet, in school they are not allowed to

bow their heads in prayer.

The Ten Commandments have been taken

out of our schools by law.

Because the government tries to tell us

they are meant for all!

The results of these perversions are

becoming clearer each day--

kids can kill each other

but it's wrong for them to pray.

Beyond Politics

I have been reprimanded and asked why I am political. Well, I am not political so much as I am a
Christian and see what is going on in this country today. What I see goes way beyond politics and is instead an affront to my Christianity.

I see our government who is supposed to work for us—the citizens of this country selling us out to the highest bidder.

I see the people in government caring more for the illegals that come into this country to rob and kill the citizens. To the politicians a vote is more important than human life. We have been tossed to the wayside for power and wealth. Our representatives in government care more about who will vote for them so they can keep getting richer and richer while we have homeless in our country and senior citizens having to decide between food and necessary medications.

I see the pharmaceutical companies putting profits ahead of the health of Americans. Many times people cannot afford the high cost of the medicines needed because the dollar speaks louder.

I see the most innocent of us, the unborn, being sacrificed on the altar of power. By declaring abortion as women's health we are neglecting the health of the unborn. We hear people shout, “my body, my choice”. What about the innocent child's choice. Women declare they are for women's rights but how many women are being aborted each year? While abortion is being shouted across the land, the new thing is to abort after birth. Think about that for a moment. Killing a child after birth is not just abortion. It is premeditated murder! The argument “my body, my choice” doesn't work here because the child is not in the woman's body any longer. People when are we going to wake up and see how far this country has gone from the foundation upon which it was built?

I see our education is not doing its job of teaching our young people how to think and be productive citizens. I see the education system as indoctrination camps for the depravity and lawlessness of the liberal agenda. Our kids are not taught how to think but are now being told what to think. This is beginning in preschool and continuing through college.

I see a political party that is using our kids to fit their agenda. One future presidential candidate stated he wrote about children being run over when he was only 16 and was too young to understand what he was doing. Now the democrats want to lower the voting age to 16. Come on. You can see on social media how mature these children are. They think it is “cool” to eat Tide Pods or snort condoms up their noses. How many of us were mature enough to elect a president when we were 16. if I can remember back that far, we were thinking about the opposite sex and what we were going to do on the weekend. We even had history class and civics class so we partially understood what the government was about. Those classes are no longer taught so where are the teenagers going to learn about our government. Oh some teachers are teaching the kids civics, I guess, by telling them that our President is ruining our country.

I see the perversion that is targeting our youngest children. We have 5 year old children being told they are the wrong gender and must be trans gendered. We now have “drag queen story hour” that sings the praises of living life as a drag queen. In some cities if a person “mispronouns” someone it means arrest and jail time. In California, it is against the law to use a plastic straw because it is bad for the environment but it is legal to urinate or defecate on the street or thrown used needles on the ground.

I see politicians wanting to dictate how many pain pills can be prescribed for a legitimate use but daily millions of dollars of dangerous drugs are smuggled into this country by the illegals the democrats are so fond of.

I see our police officers and military members being vilified daily but thugs and criminals are praised and lauded as heroes.

I see gun control advocates who want to disarm American citizens but allow criminals and gang members to possess guns. The preach the misconception that if all guns were out of the hands of citizens there would be no more gun deaths and mass shootings. They fail to see the mass shooters obtain their guns illegally or were not supposed to have the gun to begin with. No amount of laws will eliminate evil. If evil is in the heart and someone wants to kill, there are other methods. No gun was used by Timothy McVeigh or the 9/11 terrorists.

I see Christians being demonized because of our belief in the Bible. Islam is heralded as the religion of peace. This peaceful religion kills gays by throwing them off buildings. Their Koran teaches them to kill all infidels that will not convert. The God I serve does not demand us to kill unbelievers. The God I serve died for us.

God told us in His word that this day would come.

Isaiah 5:20 tells us:

Woe to those who call evil good

and good evil,
who put darkness for light
and light for darkness,
who put bitter for sweet
and sweet for bitter.
That my friends is what is happening today. The family is being torn apart. Men are being told they are toxic and the patriarchy is evil. Women are told they are better than man and man is no longer needed. Our innocent babies are being murdered daily and our children are being sacrificed on the altar of diversity. We as Christians are told we are evil and the bible does not pertain to modern times. Adultery is being applauded and we are told if we do not agree with the liberal agenda we are worthless and no longer useful.
Satan is loose in the world today because he knows his time is short. He has so many people deceived for “he is a ravenous lion looking for souls he can devour.
So friends, it is not politics I am passionate about. It is standing on my christian faith and letting the world know where I stand. I would rather stand with God and be judged by man than stand with man and be judged by God.
As always, you are free to disagree but I am free to express my views. May God bless you all. Just saying..

Where My Loyalty Lies

It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man. Psalm 118:8

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him. James 1:12
I am not a Democrat.
I am not a Republican.
I am a human born in America.
Above all else I am a Christian. God is my Father and my leader. Everything I am or do is because of His love for me and my love for Him. I have rights and responsibilities that are given to me by God which cannot be taken from me by anybody, including the government.
I have the responsibility to be a missionary for Him. All Christians are given this mandate and should not take it lightly. I may not be called to serve in a foreign field, but I am called to be a missionary to my family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. This is a rich field for broadcasting the news of the Gospel. I have a responsibility to teach my children about Him. If I don’t teach them about Him, the world is waiting to detour them to worldly ways. I try to live a life that shows His mighty love and grace. I want to radiate His love because I may be the only Bible that many people will read. I am called to stand up for Him and His Kingdom. This is very difficult at times but I do know that what God calls me to do He will equip me to accomplish the task set before me. I do know that He will give me the strength and courage to do what He wants me to do. In fact, He is doing just that right now as I type this. I know some people will be offended by my message but Jesus said, “If you deny me in front of men, I will deny you in front of my Father.”
God has also given many gifts and blessings. One of these is a freedom of choice—free will. No earthly government can take that from me. This country, no, this world, is in a cycle of destruction. It seems that decency and morals have totally been put in reverse. What God calls good and just is now against the law. Christians have been called terrorists and racist if we stand up for what is right and just. Evil is rewarded and godly living is condemned. What were once freedoms in America is now being usurped by the government. Our freedom of choice is being eroded with the persecutions of Christians and the “law” that one insurance plan be used.
I am using my free will God gave me and live up to my moral standards and live my life to please God and not men. It is true that my life can be taken away, my soul cannot be taken because my heavenly Father sent His son, Jesus, to pay the price for my soul. I accepted His free gift and now my soul belongs to Him.
Today's Whisper:
Live your life in a way that is pleasing to God and not man. Many times we are in situations that might test us and our faith. During those times look to God. He is the start and the finish—the beginning and the end. Remember that though man will try to rule us we only have one we need to bow to. Our almighty and loving God—our creator. Thank Him each and every day that He is in charge and we must answer to Him and not to the government.
Today's Prayer:
Father God, I come before you with thanksgiving in my heart. You have created me in your image and I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Although man may ridicule and try to put me down, I know you will never let me down. I am yours for eternity. Man might harm or kill this body but my soul belongs to you forever. I am trusting you and you have never let me down.

Be Positive In Negative Times

Think of all the beauty still left around you and be happy. Anne Frank

Negativity seems to run rampant in today's world. Economies are failing; people are fighting; crime is on the rise and doubts and fears assault us daily. Our televisions and newspapers flood us with news of how evil man has become and we have replaced God and His wisdom with tales of doom and disasters. We feed our minds with a diet of instant gratification and selfishness. Our children are targeted by evil each day. We can see how modern technology has taken the place of family and relationships. If we constantly surround ourselves with negativity, we soon realize that people have stopped practicing “the golden rule” and are now practicing the philosophy of “me first” and “I want what I want now.” No one has the time to care for anyone else and compassion has been replaced with selfishness and self pity.

But we, as Christians, have a strong protector on our side. He is a father who loves His children. He sends us proof of that love each and every day. All we have to do is look around us. A beautiful sunrise and extraordinary colors He places in the sky are His message that He still loves His creations. No man can combine such beautiful colors and create such masterpieces as our Father. He placed the rainbow in the sky as a promise that He is here for us. He wants us to trust Him and know that He will take care of us. He tells us to look at the lilies of the field and the birds of the air. If He can take care of those, can He not take care of us? (Luke 12:22-24)

When the enemy fills our hearts and minds with fears and worry we just need to remember that we have a loving Father that cares for us. We need to remember His promises and turn all the doubts, fears, and worries over to Him because “He that is in us is greater than he who is in the world.” (I John 4:4)

Today's Whisper:

Look around and see something positive in your life today. Journal on how you are going to concentrate on the positive and let your positive outlook color everything you do and see today.

Today's Prayer:

Father, I come to you sand turn my fears and worries over to you. I cannot change the situation by worrying but I know that You are holding me in your hand and will care for me. You are there to catch me and protect me. When I hear the birds singing and see the flowers growing I know that you are caring for them and I know that you will care for me. Amen

The Church Of the Here and Now

I wrote this as fiction a few years ago but it is beoming more and more like reality each passing day. We are told not to offend other people and let them believe the way they want to believe. Jesus cannot be the only way to Heaven and it is not politically correct to mention the Bible or God in public. More and more adjustments are made to our churches from tearing crosses down and removing pictures of Jesus and anything that pertains to Christianity so as not to “offend” anyone. People want to go to church to feel good and hear sermons that “tickle their ears” instead of putting God in His rightful place

.

The Church Of the Here and Now

This is starting to happen now. There are transgender churches in this country now, pastors are blessing abortion clinics and Christian businesses are being discriminated against. We have got to put God back in our homes, our schools, and yes our churches. God has blessed this country so much through the years and we have turned our backs on Him .It is time for Christians stand up and let our voices be head. We have been silent too long
.
Friends, this is fiction. But it is something that could possibly happen in the near future. We Christians need to wake up and stand up for God before it is too late. I hope this piece will give you something to think about.
If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from Heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
2 Chronicles 7:14.
I saw the building in the distance and decided to get a closer look. The sign in the front yard had these words: Welcome to the Church of the Here and Now.
As I walked up the door, a man greeted me. “I see you are interested in our church. Let me give you a tour.”
Just inside the door was a table holding two large binders. I did not see a Bible anywhere. “These binders have taken the place of the Bible. In the Church of the Here and Now we have found the Bible is Politically Incorrect. The binders contain our lists of PC terms. You see instead of sin we use the term mistake. Instead of God we say Higher Power. By doing this we do not offend anyone with differing beliefs.”
He then led me into the sanctuary. “Here you see all the sections we have,” He proudly waved his arm around the room. we walled up to a section. “Here is where most of our white people sit However, you will see a smaller section. That is where white people who do not understand or believe in white privilege sit. Next, we have a section reserved for our African-American members. We find our friends of African descent very comfortable here. We do not use words like slavery, shackles or anything like that for fear of offending them. Our next section is for our neighbors who have crossed the border. We do not call them illegal aliens—that is very offensive. We called them our undocumented friends.”
The next section he led me to hard plastic bubbles built around the seats. “I see you are wondering who sits here.” He said with a grin. This is where our future leaders sit—our college students. Here they are protected by the bubbles so nothing can hurt their feelings. They each have their own ‘safe places’. The last section was lit with rainbow lights. When I asked about this section, he proudly replied, “This is for our LGBT members sit. They requested their lights be in rainbow colors to show solidarity.”
“You will see each seat has special earbuds. These filter out any offensive words that might slip in. It also lets our members hear what will make them feel good. Our pastor’s sermons are reviewed before Church by a special agency but sometimes words do slip in or fall through the cracks.”
By this time, I just needed to be alone and process all I had heard. “Uh-where are the bathrooms?” I asked. “Oh,” he said with a broad smile. “right this way.” He led me down a short hall and pointed to the bathrooms. “Naturally, they are all gender neutral. After all we want to befriend not offend.”
When I awoke sweat was running down my face and tears were stinging my eyes. I jumped from bed and knelt to pray.
“Father, this world has taken you out of our schools and out of the military. Now you have been kicked out of church. I pray that people's eyes will be open before it too late. You blessed great nation and now this country has rejected you. God bless this country again. but more importantly let your people wake up and stand for you like you stood for us at the cross.

Prayer For Today

Father,

I come today to ask blessings on my friends and family. You sent your son to die for us so we may have eternal life. No name deserves our honor and praise but yours. Help me today to be a blessing to someone else. I know I can do nothing on my own but I can do anything with you to stand beside me. Whatever you call me to do I know that you will equip me with your power. Give me the strength and knowledge I need today to do what I have to do.
Amen

Prayer For Today

Dear Father,
There is so much turmoil in the world today. Shootings, stabbings, and other murders. We know you are in control and Your Holy Word tells us these things must come to pass before you call us home. I pray for my family and friends that they are not deceived by false teachers that preach that the solution to all our problems is to blindly follow. Your word says there will be “false teachers and miraculous works that will deceive even the elect.
I want to stay grounded in Your word and live in Your plan for my life. Give me the words to say to help bring others to You.
I ask these things in Jesus’ name.
Amen

Is Your Life a Blessing?

Today is almost over and

our daily struggles through.

Has another person's life been blessed

just by knowing you?

Have you helped an ailing neighbor

struggle through his pain?

Did you give enough encouragement

to lift him up again?

Did you help a lonely traveler

who stumbled on his way?

When you heard of someone's troubles,

did you get on your knees and pray?

Did you help a hungry brother

find food that he could eat?

Did you help a wayward stranger

get back up on his feet?

So as the sun sets on this day

and it finally through,

has another person's life been blessed

just by knowing you?

Today's Whisper:

Have you tried to bless someone else each day? Maybe smiling at someone or complimenting them on their clothes or something that seems so insignificant to us can mean the world to someone else. Have you helped your neighbor when they are going through a rough spot? Sometimes the smallest acts of kindness can have the most lasting and positive effect on someone else.

Today's Prayer:

Father, help me to see other people as you see us. With love and compassion. May our life be enriched by helping someone else as they struggle along in life. Give me the wisdom to know what to say to someone who is suffering. Let my words and actions reflect you and show them that someone cares for even the most minor problem that comes to all of us in life. I know you are by my side each and every day. Let me show others the same kind of kindness you show me. May I light someone else's path and help them to see you more clearly by what I do. I want my life to be a blessing to others and in it glorify your wonderful name.

A Modern Miracle

That Saturday began like every other day for my family—frantic rushing to get somewhere. Today my two older girls had soccer games and as usual we are running late. In the chaos of finding soccer gear and loading up the car a quarrel broke out with the two. “I'm riding in the front seat!” “No I am!” This argument went on for what seemed like hours. Finally, I had enough of this nonsense so I ordered both to get in the back seat so we could leave.
When they finally realized I meant what I said but still mouthing insults to each other, they got in the car. When I heard the last door slam, I heard a frightening scream from the younger boy. I looked back to see what was wrong and my blood ran cold with horror. His hand was stuck in the closed door. I jumped out and tried to open the door but it would not open! My husband came out of the house to see what all the screaming and crying was. He frantically tried to open the door but it was stuck.
“Call 911!' I was still attempting to pry open the door. Just as Mom ran to the house to make the phone call, the Em Ts pulled into the driveway. “We were passing your house when we noticed the frantic activity.” one of the men shouted as he came running to the car. I hurriedly explained what had happened. He then began shouting orders while he tried to open the door. Still the door would not budge and the child's hand would not come out.
Now the flurry of activity became even more hectic while the kids were crying and I was praying that God would keep His hand over Christian's hand to minimize the damage to his hand. The EMTs were just as panicked as the rest of us when one turned to me and asked permission to break the car windows in order to use the jaws of life to open the door. “Do what you have to do,” I tearfully replied. With all the prayers that went up today, God surely was listening. The medics tried the door again and it opened up.
Now by this time we had drawn quite a crowd and cheers went up that surely must have reached heaven. I turned around and saw the ambulance waiting in the driveway. While Christian's hand was packed in ice and he was loaded into the ambulance, my daughter grabbed her stomach and moaned. Yes, the mother of this precious child was eight months pregnant. She was rushed into the ambulance with Christian and both of them were rushed off to the hospital—he went for treatment and she went for a checkup to assure her safety and the precious baby she was going to have in a month.
Mom and I followed in my car and rushed into the emergency room. Christian was calm and quiet as the doctors checked out his hand. I imagined every bone and muscle destroyed and when his hand was uncovered there did not appear to be any damage at all. The nurses got him ready to have Xrays and Mom was holding his other hand. I reluctantly left and went to the OB-GYN department to see how my daughter was doing. After she was thoroughly checked out and her health and the health of the baby were confirmed, I went back to the ER to see about Christian. When I returned I heard laughing and cheering from the staff. “What is the prognosis?” I asked utterly confused by the cheerful atmosphere in the exam room. I then saw Christian and his hand was completely normal—even the swelling had gone. One nurse looked at me as she hugged Christian and he smiled through his tears. There was no damage at all to his hand. The ER doctor told us in his “professional” voice that we had all over reacted and had given in to hysteria. One paramedic was still there and was waiting until we found out everything was fine told the doctor “That kid's hand was in that door for 45 minutes before the door would open. I guess if the family over reacted we “professionals” did too. This experience has taught me that miracles do happen because I just witnessed one.”
Yes, a miracle had just happened to us. No one can convince me that God does not perform miracles today. My grandson had an angel holding his hand over that child's hand. No one can convince me He was not protected by my heavenly Father and His angels.
Christian is now twelve years old and has not had any problems with his hand. There is no evidence at all that he suffered a traumatic injury of any kind.
So friends, yes there is a heavenly Father who watches over His children and protects us from dangers that befall us. I will never forget the day that God sent His angels to protect a three year old. Today Christian remembers that day he experienced God's unconditional love for him. His faith and mine were made stronger that day. If you ask him what happened that day he will tell you that God came down and held his hand.
Today's Whisper:
Think back and try to remember the love God showed you in a vulnerable moment. Some people say the age of miracles is over but I can attest to the fact that miracles can and still occur. We might not recognize them when we see them but they are there just the same. Have you swerved your car at just the right moment to avoid an accident? Has a financial breakthrough come at just the right time? Has your or a loved one's health improved when all hope was lost? These, my friends, are miracles that come to us from our loving Heavenly Father.



Today's Prayer:
Father, I know you are protecting each and every day. I can see your protection in many crises but I want to thank you for the times you have protected me when I didn't know I was in trouble. You have sent miracles in the form of other people that have helped me in my lowest. You have sent miracles in circumstances that seem to be designed to tear me down. I know now that you used those circumstances to make me whole and keep me safe. I have seen your miracles in the disappointments of this life. It was in those disappointments that you had something even better in store for me. I just want to say thank you Father for loving me so much.

A Storm Of Fear

Life sometimes fills me with fear and dread. One day not long ago was one of those times. It had been raining all day with thunder and lightning piercing the sky. Normally, I would not be so uptight about a storm but I had my van loaded with kids and groceries. We did make it home safely but were soaked to the skin by the time we managed to run into the house balancing grocery bags. I wish I could say there were no causalities in the mad dash to the house. But I can't say that. My feet stepped on a spot of mud that became slick in the storm and I am totally ashamed to say that my butt met the ground. I was carrying the eggs because I was afraid the kids would drop them. Well, I'm sure you can imagine what happened. Yeah, the eggs were scrambled in my graceful dive to the ground. My great kids came over to help me up and make sure I was not hurt. If you believe that you do not have kids, do you? They actually enjoyed the sight of me flat on the ground with water, mud and eggs covering me from head to foot. We finally made it into the house with no further crisis. The rain fell and the storm raged all afternoon with sign of letting up.

Once inside I convinced the kids to play quietly while I cleaned myself up, put away the groceries and mopped the water from the floor. It did not take long, however, for the fighting to begin. After stopping the battles and clean up their toys, we decided to pop some popcorn and watch a movie. When they were finally settled down with their popcorn and movie, I went back to the tasks on never ending “to do” list. I must admit I kept looking out the window to monitor the storm activity. I had heard tornado warnings but did not want to scare the kids. I silently up a prayer to God: Please watch over us, Father.”

By the time I had fed the children their dinner and had gotten them into bed, the rain had slowed but had not stopped. After the nightly stories, drinks of water and numerous trips to the bathroom, the house was finally quiet and I could actually sit down for a few minutes in my comfortable old rocking chair. I got out my Bible and started to read. Suddenly I found myself reading Isaiah 41:10: “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you in my righteous right hand.” What a comforting thought! He well never leave us and the only place we can fall is into His arms! Suddenly my mind was at ease and peace filled my heart. Although the storm outside was still raging, inside I knew were saf3e in His loving arms.

Today's Whisper:

Can you recall a time when fear gripped your heart? How did you handle it? Did you remember God's promise that He will never leave? Write out a prayer thanking God for bringing you through fearful times.

Today's Prayer:

Father God, I want to praise you and thank you for keeping your children in you loving arms. So many times I become afraid during the storms of this life. I praise your name. Sometimes you calm the storm and other times you calm my heart and give me the strength to weather storm. But I know that are always with me during the storms.

FEAR-False Evidence Appearing Real.

Amen

Seeds of Love vs Seeds of Hate

Pa, Ma, and Junior were sitting on the front porch after a hard day on the farm. There were just relaxing when a car drove up and a man got out. He walked up to them and asked, “What kind of town is this? We’re moving because the town we left is full of hateful and spiteful people.” Pa looked at the man for a second and replied, “Well, I’m afraid you’ll find the same kind of people live here.” The man –muttered under his breath and stomped away.
Soon another car drove up and a man walked to the porch. “What kind of people live in this town? The town we just left has the most caring, kindest people we have ever known.” Pa looked at him for a second and smiled. “You will find the same kind of people live here.” The man smiled as he walked back his car and drove away.
“Pa, why did you tell the first man this town is full of hateful people, but you told the second man the town is full of kind people?” I don’t understand.”
Pa smiled and looked at Junior. “Well son, you see the first man has a heart full of hate and it is bubbling out of him and spilling over onto everyone around him. The second man has a heart filled with love and it too is spilling over onto everyone around him. You see, son, whatever is in your heart will show up on the outside.”
I read this story a few years ago and it has stayed with me. I don’t know who wrote it and apologize to the writer if I have slaughtered it too badly. The point is we see this story being lived out every day in this country. There are so many hate-filled people. They are letting their hatred bubble over and are trying to stomp out and eliminate any goodness and kindness they see.
I want to tell all the kindhearted compassionate people that are left in this great country—don’t give up the fight. Stay strong and endure until the end and we will prevail. By sowing our seeds of kindness, we can rest assured that we will have our rewards. God is in control and no matter what the hate-mongers try to tell us He will never leave us. Although the evil one is sowing seeds of hatred, our seeds of kindness will prevail and one day we will win the fight.
I love what St. Francis of Assisi said so long ago.
Lord,
Make me an instrument of your peace
Where there is hatred…let me sow love
Where there is injury…pardon
Where there is doubt….faith
Where there is despair…hope
Where there is sadness…joy.
Today's Whisper:
Stop and think about how our attitudes color the world of the ones around us. When we are happy we can notice the joy on the faces of our family and friends. When we are grumpy, that attitude also colors the world of others. When we see love shown by others it makes us want to spread that love to the people around us. When we are feeling angry and hateful, we need to take a step back and think of something beautiful. I know sometimes this is hard to do but it can be done. As St. Francis of Assisi we need to ask God to make us an instrument of His peace and sow seeds of love. We just might be amazed at the love that will come our way.
Today's Prayer:
Father, I ask you with a humble heart to make me an instrument of your peace. Help me to sow seeds of love instead of seeds of hatred. Guide and direct our paths in this great country. Be with our leaders and give them the knowledge to lead us where you want us to go. Too many people are sowing seeds of hate and are listening to the enemy's lies. I pray that you open the eyes of the blind and let them see your wondrous love and mercy. You have shown so much mercy to us but far too many are being deceieved by the father of lies.

Bloom Where You Are Planted

For I know the plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Jeremiah 29:11
The other day I was feeling stressed and overwhelmed. I had recently lost my job. We should have been able to make it and able to live comfortably on one income. However, we had recently been granted custody of three grandchildren, in addition to, one we have had for most of her life. I do love these children and will do anything to make sure they receive the love and care they need. I must admit that these extra mouths to feed and clothe did create some stress. To add to this stress, our “grown children” are always asking for financial assistance. I lost my job when I received custody of these children. Please don’t get me wrong, I have no regrets about this switching of roles in my life but I did feel upset because of the shortage of money to provide the little extras every child wants.
Now my cupboard is bare. I have a mountain of laundry and the sink is full of dirty dishes. I admit I started feeling sorry for myself and started complaining about my life situation. “Lord, show me what I can do to provide what these children need. I love them and want only the best for them. But am I what they need?”
Suddenly a peace came over me and I heard a whisper in my heart. “Go for a walk.” I did not think I had heard right but I heard the voice again. “Go for a walk.” “But God, I have too much to do: I have dishes to wash, floors to sweep and mop and laundry to do. Besides, the kids will be home in a few hours tired and hungry.” “Go for a walk.” “OK, Lord,” I said as I began putting on my walking shoes.
Wondering what I was supposed to learn, I started walking along a route I had taken before. Suddenly about halfway through my walk, I saw it. It was a beautiful flower growing through a crack in the sidewalk. It was the most beautiful flower I had ever seen. The petals were a beautiful yellow color and reminded me of a ray of sunshine. I looked around but did not see another flower like this anywhere. It was then that God began to teach me the lesson He wanted me to learn. “This is what I wanted you to see. That flower is growing in a hard place but it is growing where the seed fell. It has overcome obstacles like the hot sun beating down on it and people stepping on it. Yet it is still here because I have taken care of it. If I can take care of this flower, don’t you know that I will take care of you? I know you feel overwhelmed at tines and feel as though you are all alone. You are where I want you be at this point in your life. Those kids need you. You are the person I picked that will teach them about me. You are to be an example of my love and let them see me through your life. Don’t worry. Just put your trust in me. Whatever I ask of you, I will equip you. Remember, I do not call the qualified. I qualify the called.” Suddenly, a peace came over me and I knew I was fulfilling His plan for my life. I know that He will be with me and give me the wisdom and strength to accomplish what He wants me to do.
I went back home with reassurance that the dishes, the laundry, the cooking and the cleaning are important because I am doing God’s will by bringing up these children to know God and His love. Just like that flower in the sidewalk, God will watch over me and give me the strength to make it through each day. I know I am important in the lives of these children and they are learning about God through my love and care for them. I still get overwhelmed at times with everything that must be done but I know the work I am doing is the most important work that I can do. I can rest assured that what I am doing today will be passed on through these children and they will know God as their Father.
Today’s Whisper:
Do you get discouraged with your life’s work. Do you ever wonder why you are doing what you are doing? Write about how your life seems to be getting out of control and how a visit with God can set your life on the right track. Just like the flower, we must bloom where we are planted—whether it is as a stay at home mom or out in the work world.
Today’s Prayer:
Father, help me to remember that you are in control of my life and have placed me in the special life you want me to have. Don’t let me forget that you can take care of that flower growing in that hard place and you will always be there to take care of me. I love you and trust you with my life and know that you will bless me while I am doing your work. I know you have plans for my peace and happiness and I claim that promise.
Amen

If Jesus Came To Visit

If Jesus came to visit

Would you make Him feel at home?

Would you gladly let Him see

everything that you might own?

Or is something

that you'd rather He not see

so you rush around and hide it

under lock and key?

Would you bring out bible and

wipe away the dust?

Would you treat Him as an intruder

or someone you could trust?

Would you invite Him in to dinner

or rush Him on His way?

What kind of host would you be

If Jesus came today?

The Road Map

The bible is my road map,
I read it everyday.
Whenever I might stumble
it's there to show the way.
I read it every morning
to start my day off right.
It gives me a glimpse of Heaven--
Oh, what a wondrous sight!
It helps me through the trials
that this old world can bring.
It tells me of my Savior's love,
oh what a loving king!
It tells me of my Father
who always holds my hand.
It tells me how He gave His life
to save the souls of man.
So when you fall and stumble
over obstacles day by day,
let my road map guide you
along life's rocky way.

If God Had A Refrigerator

I do not know who wrote this but I think it expresses the love He has for us. I found this after I wrote "Love Notes From God' and think it ties right in to the message I was sending in my story.
If God Had A Refrigerator
If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it.
If He had a wallet, your photo would be in it.
He sends you flowers every Spring,
He sends you a sunrise every morning.
Whenever you want to talk, He listens.
He can live anywhere in the universe, but He chose –your heart.
Face it friend—He is crazy about you!
God didn't promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow, sun without rain,
But He did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears, and light for the way.

Author Unknown

Love Notes From God

I recently participated in the bible study, The Power of a Praying Wife. This bible study taught me how to pray for my husband in the major areas of his life. Through this class I was reminded of a practice I had developed when we first married. I would write my husband little “love” notes and put them in his lunch box or somewhere in the house where I knew he find them. Unfortunately, when the children came into our lives and our time was wrapped up in caring for them and making a living to support our little family, this practice was pushed to the side.

However, when I really began to read the book for the study, I knew the man I fell in love with married is the one that I still love after so many years of marriage. I knew that over the years we both had, at times, felt that we had lost something in our relationship. I realized that even though we each now have major responsibilities in the day to day scheme of things we need to let each other know that our love is still alive and has has grown with the passing years. So I again picked up the practice of leaving little notes around the house for him. Although he not acknowledged that he reads the notes he has made reference to them from time to time and I can tell that he is pleased by this gesture on my part.

One morning not too long ago I was having my morning visit with God and asking for His help with some major problems with our children. As I cried in my coffee cup and bemoaned the loneliness and discouragement I was feeling, God spoke to me and said, “Do you remember the love notes you wrote Billy? Well have you read my love notes from me to you?” Love notes from God? Was I hearing Him right or has my imagination run away with me again?” “Lord, what do you mean love notes from you?”

As I listened to His answer the tears began falling down my face as I realized that I have been so caught up in my problems and trying to come up with my own solutions to them that I had not noticed the signs God had been sending me. He is always available with His arms stretched out wide for me to fall into. All I have to do is go to Him and tell Him my problems.

“Well,” he went on to say, “Do you remember the 'cute' little note you wrote to Billy that said, 'You deserve the best—and when you married me that is just what you got'?” “Sure, I remember that one,” I said. “I left that one for him because I know he does appreciate my sense of humor—sometimes that is.” “Well,” god replied. “You deserve the best—and when you became my child that is what you got. I gave my son to die on the cross for you and pay for all your sins.”

“How about that one with the candy kiss inside?” God asked. “Do you remember that one?” Of course. I remember that one with a smile. This one had a picture of a man, who, with sagging shoulders, looked as though he were carrying the weight of the world. On the inside I had taped two candy kisses with the words: 'This looks like a two kiss day to me.' “Well how many kisses from me have you missed? I have seen you tired and burdened down with the stresses of life and that is when I send a gentle breeze to touch your face or a gentle spring rain to let you know that I am here and thinking of you. When your precious granddaughter stops in the middle of a game and runs to you to throw her arms around your neck and gives you an 'I love you Nanny' that is a message from me to count the blessings I have given you.”

“That note that asks your husband to 'wake you with a kiss' should remind you that each morning I give you a kiss of sunshine to greet you and help you start another day. I am also there to hold you up when things go wrong for you. Do you remember when you had surgery years ago and had just gotten home from the hospital. When you saw the rose in full bloom with the snow outlining the petals on that cold November day do you know what message I was sending you? I was telling you that no matter how depressed and lonely you may get and how cold the world is I will always be with you to help you see the beauty in whatever is happening in your life?”

When God had finished speaking, I was totally overwhelmed. For I had forgotten so many times to look for the beauty and love that He is always sending me. From that day forward, I vowed to always look for God's love notes and I have been blessed each time I see a message that He is sending me. God is awesome and His messages are so beautiful. Just this week I have seen a rainbow in the sky for three consecutive days and know that God is not only in Heaven smiling down but is also with me each day.

God even sends humorous love notes. When I come home after a long hard day at work and my dog jumps on my lap and puts his paw up in a “high five” I can imagine God smiling He looks down and says, “everything is going to be OK.”

I challenge each and every one of you reading this to begin to look for love notes from God and I am sure you will be able to see more clearly than ever that God does truly love us and His love will us through anything we are going through in our lives.

Today's Whisper:

Remember that He loves us and is always sending us reminders of that love. Take a few minutes today and think about the love notes He sends to you. You will always find a special note from Him. I challenge you to find a love note from God today and really read it with your heart and soul mindful of the love He is sending to you with that special note from Him.

Today's Prayer:

Father God, I know you love me with an enduring and unconditional love. Help me to stop and read your love notes to me. Often in the midst of daily life I miss them but help to sit under your sheltering wings and bask in your love for me. Amen.

The Great Possum Caper

One day my husband fixed a leak behind the commode in my bathroom. Being the handyman he is, he cut a small hole in the floor to reach the pipes. Fine, no problem, leak fixed so now he will repair the hole and life goes on. Right? Wrong! He decided to leave the hole for a few days t make sure the leak is really fixed. Now that few days has turned into months. Although it is a small hole, I have tried my best to conceal it but there is just so much I can do to make a hole in floor more attractive .Now fast forward about six months. The hole is still there even though I have done all I can to conceal/decorate it. A hole is a hole and it is still there.

One night I stumble into bed after an exhausting day of transporting kids to different activities in addition to the daily circus of running a household with four kids. Around 2:00 in the morning my little dog woke me up with frantic barking and yelping. I forced one eye open to see him jumping up and down on the floor by my bed. He looked at me as if to say, “I'm trying to protect you, now come on and do your part.” When I did manage to stumble into the bathroom, I was instantly awake. There between the commode and the wast can was a possum! Pugsley, my dog, had him trapped. I could not move because I was in shock. Pugsley barked again as if to say, “See, I told you. Now get rid of it. I'm tired and want to go to sleep” frantically, I woke up my husband and screamed, “THERE'S A POSSUM IN THE BATHROOM! GET UP AND KILL IT” He looked at me as though I had completely lost my mind. “OK, just get me something to use to kill it.” He calmly said. I ran to my grandson's room and came back with a ball bat. I gave the bat to hubby and jumped on the bed and covered my eyes. I could hear the battle raging on in the bathroom. “HISS!” “POW!” “KA-POW!” “BOOM!” Finally all was silent so I opened my eyes. There on the floor lay the lifeless body of the intruder. I picked it up carefully by the tail and placed it into a plastic bag and ran to throw it into the outside garbage can. I was finally able to fall to sleep but the bathroom light was left on for the rest of the night.

I bet you thought this was the end of my story. WRONG! I pulled into the driveway the next morning after running errands and three kids met me at the car. All three were talking at once. I was finally able to understand their excitement when Christian told me, “Nanny, there is a possum in our garbage can.” “and he is alive,” Alyssa interrupted to excitedly tell me. “Yeah, he is ALIVE! Nikolas finished with excitement written all over his face. I went over to the garbage can to see for myself. Sure enough, when I raised the lid of the can, I could see two beady little eyes staring up at me. I slammed the lid down and get the kids into the house after explaining to them to stay away from the garbage can and leave the creature alone. I don't know what happened to our uninvited guest. The kids think he escaped and is now living happily-albeit traumatized-with his family. I hope that is what happened, but at least, is not living in my house with my family.

When I was finally able to sit down for my visit with God, I asked Him, as I always do, “What do you want to talk about today, Father?” His answer came as a total surprise to me. “I want to talk about the possum.” “What about the possum?” I asked in astonishment. “That was a small hole in your floor, wasn't it?” “Y e a h,” I slowly answered. “Just like that possum squeezing through such a small unguarded hole in the floor, the enemy can enter your heart through a small unguarded hole in your heart. Just as that intruding animal filled you with dread and fear, the enemy can fill your heart with fears and worries. When he does that you do not fully trust me to care for you.” Suddenly I understood what He was telling me. We must always guard our hearts against the enemy that roams around seeking who he devour. Satan doesn't need a door with a flashing neon welcome sign, he enters through a hole he finds unguarded. Don't make it easy for him to enter your heart. Fill your heart with joy and love and trust in your Heavenly Father who loves you unconditionally and will never leave you unprotected.

By the way, the hole in my floor has been fixed. I have not had another possum to enter my house but I have to admit, I have let fears and doubts enter my heart. I then have to remember that I have a Father who loves me unconditionally and with His help I can dispel these fears and doubts before they take up residence in my heart.

Today's Whisper:

Have you ever left your heart unguarded and the enemy was able to squeeze through and fill your heart with fear and doubt. Journal about the doubts and fears you let enter and write out a prayer confessing them and ask God to come into your heart. Just as the enemy can enter our heart, God can close that hole with His peace and joy.

Today's Prayer:

Loving Father, help me to be ever vigilant to guard my heart against the enemy's attacks only you can fill my heart with the peace and joy I crave. Make me ever mindful of your love and care for me. I surrender my heart and soul to you. I know you will never me or forsake me. I covet your presence in my life today and forever. Amen

Blessings In Disguise

Count your blessings
Name them one by one.
Count your many blessings
See what God hath done.
What if you woke up today with only the things you thanked God for yesterday? How would feel if everything you have was taken from you except what you were thankful for yesterday? Would you have your family? Your home? Would you be left with only the material things and not the love of someone? Thought provoking isn't it?
Have you counted your blessings today?  I admit I do not always thank God for all He has blessed me with.  In fact, I have been known to grumble about my blessings.  Why would I do such a thing?  Well sometimes His blessing come to us in disguise.  That’s right.  Sometimes His blessings can be found in our day to day chaos of day to day living such as dirty dishes, laundry, bills, and even our dirty houses.  I can see you scratching your head and saying “this woman is crazy!  How can dirty dishes, laundry, and bills be blessings?”
Well, dirty dishes tell us we have food to eat.  So many people do not have enough food.  Dirty laundry lets us know we have clothes to put on our backs.  When we pay our bills, we know God has provided us with the means to pay them.  A dirty house is a sign we have a roof over our heads and a family that loves us and children God has entrusted to our care.
Sometimes blessings can be hidden in trials.  James 1:2 tells us:  “Count it all joy my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.  And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”
Remember, God is on the throne, in control and blessing us each and every day.  We may not recognize them at first but when we look through our eyes of faith, they are clear to see.  So beginning today, let’s all count our blessings, name them one by one.  Count our many blessings  see what God hath done.
Today's Whisper:
Look around and see how many blessings you can see. I bet you will find they are like an old potato chip commercial. You can't stop at just one. I challenge each and every one of you to see the blessings that are disguised. Maybe your grumbling about bills and dirty dishes will make you smile when you see these as blessings.
Prayer:
Father, I thank you for your blessings you have given me and the ones you are giving me.  Help me to see your love and care in my day to day life.  Everything I have and everything I am I give my thanks and praise your wonderful name.  Thank you for loving me so much.
Amen

In the Wilderness

We all wish life could go smoothly all the time. But unfortunately we find ourselves in the wilderness at times. During these hard times in our lives we sometimes question why a loving God would allow hard times to happen to His children. He seems so far away and His voice seems silent. “Where are you Father” we cry out. We often try to solve the issues in our own power. Trust me that doesn't work. I have tried that and have only made more trouble for myself.

He tells us that we are not alone in this world and we do not have to fight our own battles. He stands ready to fight the battles for us. All we have to do is take His hand and never let go. When we read His holy word we find that the greatest people in the Bible found themselves in a wilderness. Moses spent forty years wandering in the wilderness with the children of Israel. Paul was in the wilderness of imprisonment and trials but did not give up. Even Jesus himself spent forty days in the wilderness being tempted by satan. What I have learned from these stories is that God will never let His children down. He will always have a way of getting us to the other side. We are told that the world will hate us. The world hated Jesus and he was killed by people that hated Him.

I have found myself many times in the wilderness and, if you are honest, you can say the same thing. But friend, I am here to tell you that I made it out. Sometimes I prolonged the stay by not listening to Him and tried to make it through on my own. Sometimes, the trial did not turn out the way I wanted it to. But I can say He always brought me through according to His plan. This has never worked. When I turned it over to Him, He was faithful to see me through. Remember, God will not take you to the wilderness and leave you there. If He brought you to it, He is faithful to bring you through it.

I wrote this poem in the midst of one of my wilderness stays and hope it will help you make it through your own wilderness times too.

When I'm, in a desert place

where fears and doubts abound,

I look up to Jesus for I know

He's already looking down.

When I'm in a desert place

and feel overwhelmed by despair,

I can hear Jesus whisper to me,

“My child, I'm always near.

I will never leave nor forsake you

though from me you often stray.

Just take my hand and hold it

and I will lead the way.”

When I', in a desert place

Lord, help me to see

that there are others hurting

even more than me.

So when you are in a desert place

just look to Heaven above.

You will see that our Father

is looking down in love.

Today's Whisper:

When we find ourselves going through a hard time, we should not forget that we have a Heavenly Father that loves us more than anyone else. He will care for us no matter what we are going through. He takes care of the birds in the air and the flowers on the earth. How much more can He care for us—His children? The next time you find yourself in the midst of the wilderness, stop and thank Him for the blessings He has already given you. I dare say if you can think of one so many more will come to your mind that you cannot count them all.

Today's Prayer:

Father God, I thank you that you are always with me. You are there for me even when I stray from you. You wait patiently for me to return because you have everlasting and unconditional love for me. I thank you that you never fail me even though I fail you many times a day. Help me remember that every wilderness I go through you are going through it with me.

The Only Bible

With the recent backlash against Christians coming from the world and the liberal left, we must all remember that one of the greatest commandments Jesus gave His followers is to love our neighbor. He tells us that it is easy to love those who love us but we must love those that hate us and spitefully use us. He did not tell us to compromise our faith in order for them to like us but we should pray for them.

This is not an easy thing to do, I know but it is worth it. If we want the peace of God we must follow Him and obey His teachings. Sometimes, people that profess to be Christian live lives that are opposite of what He teaches. People will look at them and judge all of us by that same standard. Friends, I can stand in a garage but that doesn't make me a car. People can go to church faithfully and not be a Christian. My Father does not have grandchildren. I have heard heard people say, “I have gone to church all my life so I know I am going to Heaven.” Well, friend my Father does not have grandchildren. He only has children. To become a child of His you must go through Jesus yourself. Your mother's faith won't send you to Heaven. Your father's faith won't get you there. You have to accept Jesus for yourself. I would rather see someone walk the walk and not just talk the talk. After all, even satan can recite bible verses. I want to see the fruits of the Christian life in their daily walk.

I wrote this poem many years ago but its message is still a goal I try to live by day by day. I admit I am not always successful. I fail Him so many times but I can tell you He has never failed me.

I may be the only bible

that someone else will read.

So take my life and guide it

in thought and word and deed.

Let me be a blessing

to someone else I meet.

Help me show them it's your love

that makes my life complete.

Oh, such a sobering thought to think

of what they're apt to see.

Help me show them it you, Lord

that lives inside of me.

Today's Whisper:

How many times do you try to let the world know you are a child of His by the way you live your life? Are you capable of walking the walk as well as talking the talk. He knows we will fail Him but He is always there to pick us up when we fail. It's not how many times we get knocked down to our knees by life but how we react when we are knocked down. After all when life knocks us to our knees, we are in the perfect position to pray.

Today's Prayer:

Father, help me be a witness to you today. Let other people see how wonderful you are and let them see your love through the way I live my life. I don't want to cause anyone to stumble by my words or actions. I know I fail you many many times but I am thankful that you do not give up on me. You, in your infinite love and mercy pick me up each time I fall.

If The Empty Nest Doesn't Occur Soon I'm Going To Fly The Coop!

Every little girl has a dream of meeting her Prince Charming, her Mister Right, and riding off into the sunset to live happily forever. This dream includes marriage, a little white house with a picket fence and, of course, children. Naturally these children should be a little boy who will fish, hunt, and play sports with his father and a little girl who will dress in ruffles and lace and be a “mama's little helper.” the dream continues and the children are grown and married with homes and children of their own. Ah, such a wonderful dream to have. However, dreams do not always come true. We often get a little reality check when life kicks us back to the real world. We learn that “happily ever after” only works in fairy tales. Reality teaches us that real life is where all the action is.

When my children grew up, they not only moved in with us again (and again), my daughter brought her children to live with us. Now please do not misunderstand me, I do love my children and grandchildren. I will fight to the death anyone who questions that. It is just that at this point in my life I was looking forward to time for me and my husband. I thought I could have time to spend doing things I wanted to do and spend time with the man I married but haven't seen in two weeks because I have either been at school for a meeting or at the ballpark watching a grandchild play little league.

Imagine if you can, a leisurely trip to the mall with no worries about cleaning house or cooking dinner. Perhaps a late afternoon move would be fun a lunch at one of those “fancy” restaurants. You know the kind. You actually go in and a waitress takes your order and serves you. You don't have to yell into a little box and you get fries whether you want them or not. After the mall and lunch I think I will—uh oh, I must be dreaming because for just a moment I thought I was having lunch at the mall. Well, when reality hits it often uses a sledge hammer doesn't it?

I guess I must come back to reality and clean the house and prepare dinner for my hungry bunch. I have to admit that preparing dinner is not as much fun as it once was. When the children were younger, I could prepare one meal and everyone would eat it without presenting any major problems. Now, however our schedules are so hectic that we seldom eat at the same time. Now with our busy schedules and different tastes my kitchen looks more like the kitchen of a fast food restaurant. Oh well, I guess it is nice to be needed—when it's time to clean up and scrub the cooked on food off the counters and floor.

I have started looking through magazines of beautiful homes and dreaming of living in a house that is as beautiful as the homes shown in these magazines. I'm not talking about expensive homes or expensive furniture. I'm talking about homes that stay clean with everything in its place. A home where you will not find a hair brush in the kitchen or a glass of milk in the bedroom. I am dreaming of the day when I can clean the house and it will stay clean for more than fifteen minutes at a time. I am not complaining though because right now you can eat off my kitchen floor. Yeah, there is a spot of mashed potatoes in that corner, gravy over there and bread crumbs scattered throughout.

I know that in the Bible the children of the Proverbs 31 woman rise up and call her blessed. My children rise up and call me when they need clean clothes, more junk food and the keys to the car or money for gas. Ah, the feeling of being needed. Such a wonderful feeling for a mother to have.

I do not live an unfilled life however. I happen to have front row seats to the biggest sporting events of the year. I'm not talking about some boring sports with players that are known nationwide and who seem to be larger than life. I know the hottest new baseball stars of the century and am even on first name bases with the players and their coaches. I am also a regular at the ballet and the prima ballerina calls me by her pet name for me—Nanny. Oh, I can't forget my volunteer work and charitable donations of which I am a faithful contributor. Let me see, there is the magazine subscription drive, the raffle ticket peddler, and the volunteer for the biggest dance of the season—the Daisy Scout cotillion. Ah, what a wonderfully busy by satisfying life I lead.

Although I do not have the opportunity for time alone to spend reading all the books I want to read or doing all the things I want to do for myself, I have learned to be like Paul—content in all circumstances. I have discovered that I have the greatest opportunity in the world. I am talking about influencing my family by living my life as a testimony to what Christ can do and has done for us. I want my children to see the awesome love that is possible in Him and through Him. I hope my family can learn from my example that with Christ all things are possible and without Him we can do nothing. I am trying to live my life so they can see my love for God and my appreciation for the blessings He has already given. us. I know my family will always remember me and want them to remember me my faith and my love for God. I want them to see this love through all the little things I do for them. I know that they will rise up and call me blessed. I want to leave them with the knowledge that everything I have done has been done out of my great love for them and my faith in God.

I want to show them that when they do leave my nest and start out on their own they will always have someone to call on they the times are tough and the nights are long. I won't be around always to pick them back up but there is a father will never leave or forsake His children. If they do not learn any of the lessons that I have attempted to teach them in life I want them to learn that one. He is always there for us, even when we mess up and think that we have no place to go or no one to listen to their problems. His nest will never be empty because He always has His arms open wide for us.

Today's Whisper:

A second grade teacher was teaching a unit on magnets. She asked the class, “what has 6 letters and picks up things?” little Johnny raised his hand and responded proudly, “Mother.” Ah, the wisdom of children. Although this is funny, it shows us how important a mother is in the lives of her children. It has been said that the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world. I have had the wonderful privilege of not only raising two children of my own but I have had the honor of raising four grandchildren. I have tried to instill in each of them the love of our Savior and hopefully have let them see His love and mercy in my own life.

Today's Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I want to thank you that you will never “kick us out of your nest” but will always be there to shelter us under your wings. I know that you are always ready soothe our hurts and heal our wounds that daily living inflicts upon us. I thank you Father for your tenderness and mercy even when we disobey and go our own way. You are the ultimate Father and have shown us the ultimate love. Thank you that you gave me the honor and privilege of caring for the children you placed in my home and heart. I pray they always remember the love I have for them and the love you have for them.

We Are All Americans

The left wing liberals are fighting to divide this country based on race, gender, and anything else that can possibly be conceived to cause division. Why? Because if we are divided, we are easier to control. It's as simple as that but sadly too many people are being deceived and think that we are enemies. We are all Americans and have got to start acting like it. Forget the labels of African American, Asian American, Hispanic American. If you are a citizen of this country, you are Americans.. I am not saying forget your heritage but live in the knowledge that you are an American citizen and be proud of that fact.

I heard someone I admire greatly recently use this as an example of being “color blind”. If you are in the hospital and need a blood transfusion immediately or you will die, do you first ask what “color” the donor was? Of course not. The blood you are about to receive to save your life could have come from a black American or a white American or a pink and purple polka dotted American. Do you refuse the transfusion if it came from someone different that you. Not if you value your own life. If you refuse it then I guess you can die thinking your are so righteous and the last thought you had was “Well, I showed them didn't I?” My point here is our blood is all the same because God made each and every one of us. Yes, we might be of different cultures and different backgrounds but that is what makes this country so great isn't it? If we all thought and acted the same we would be nothing more than robots that spit out the same ideas and views. Maybe you disagree with something I say. You have that right just as I have the right to disagree with something you say but that should not divide us. You cannot make me agree with you and I cannot make you agree with me. Yet, that is what the liberals are trying to do. If we disagree with them we are racist or bigoted or homophobic or Islamophobic or any other phobic they can think of. People wake up before it is too late. If they succeed in dividing us, we are all in danger of losing our rights, our freedoms and, in many cases, our lives.

As always you are free to disagree with me but I am free to express my opinion. May God bless you all. Just saying.

True Beauty

I have a confession to make. Don't act surprised. I know you have done the sane thing. I fell for the “look younger and lose fifty pounds overnight” ads on late night television, Ladies, if these products delivered what the ads claim, we would never look our age or let that last brownie settle on our hips.

Well, I did some math and according to my calculations, I could look like I did in high school. OK maybe an older college graduate.

This is fabulous, I thought to myself as I planned how many years how many pounds I wanted to drop. I began to fantasize about all the fun I could have and how wonderful I would look.

I ordered the miracle potions and waited impatiently for them to arrive. Finally, the magical day arrived when this wonderful package came in the mail. Now to begin my wonderful transformation! I eagerly swallowed the weight loss pill and could almost feel the weight melting off. While the weight fell off I lathered the miraculous cream all over my body. I could hardly wait until the next morning when I just knew I would be a magnificent creature. I went to bed with wonderful visions in my head.

Well, the next morning I was a creature all right. But I wouldn't call it magnificent. My face was swollen and had a hideous itchy rash. I looked more like a monster from some low budget horror movie than the beautiful butterfly I had envisioned.

At least my family got a good laugh when they saw my red blotchy face and my husband did ask if I felt like grocery shopping today and running a few errands for him. I will not tell you what I said but let's just say, he did not ask me to do anything else. I did manage to drive myself to the doctor. After a gasp-either fear or not so successful attempt to stifle a laugh, he looked at the bottle I held in my hand and after reading the ingredients he informed me I was suffering an allergic reaction to the oils in the concoction. He prescribed a cream to use on my face and a pill for the swelling. So now, I was still taking a pill to help me lose weight and a cream to erase flaws in my skin. However, this time I just wanted to return to my “old average looking me.”

I did not want to show mu face in public until I returned to normal so I had plenty of time to meditate and think about my situation. One day while I was having my devotional and “ God time”, I read what Peter had to say about beauty. Beauty comes from character. It does not depend on outward ornaments or flash jewelry but inner beauty that is seen in love, kindness, compassion and a gentle spirit. Wow! What an eye opener that was. I then realized that I had been racing against the clock and calendar trying to outrun wrinkles, middle age spread and gray hair. I had forgotten that I am fearfully and wonderfully made. God created us in His image. Other people might see our imperfections and think less of us but when God looks at us us He sees us through the blood of His son and sees the perfection that only His love can bring. If we focus on His love for us instead of our reflections in the mirror we can smile and put beauty in its proper perspective.

We have all heard the expression, “beauty is only skin deep but ugly goes all the way to the bone.” That is true. When you have a beautiful face but a cold and uncaring heart, it is reflected in your face and makes you ugly. Likewise, when your face is not as beautiful as you would like and you have a loving and caring heart, that is reflected in your face and makes you glow with beauty. True beauty of a woman can be found in her heart.

I have found that times I spend with my Father make me glow from the inside. This inner beauty will last long after my outward beauty has faded. This really makes me feel better. I am glad that these itchy blotches won't last forever but that as long as I live I am beautiful in my Father's eyes. I know He loves me no matter what I look like. He made me the way I am and I am made in His image. In Proverbs we read that “Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting but a woman who fears God will be praised.
I have decided that instead of looking to a miracle pill or wonder lotion, I will bask in God's beauty treatment of confession, repentance and the warmth of His love. I will relax in the rejuvenating messages of His word.

Whenever I look at my reflection in the mirror and see my gray hair and wrinkles, I will know that these are visible signs of my human frailties and reminders to depend on Him instead of the world's idea of perfection.

Today's Whisper:

Have you fallen into the trap of society's idea of beauty? Remember, God made you in His image.

Rejoice and thank Him for making you unique and set apart from every other woman in this world. Remember, beauty is fleeting but God's love in your heart will make your inner beauty shine for all the world to see.

Today's Prayer:

Father, I thank you for making me unique. I know you made us in your image and created us to be beautiful in your eyes. I thank you that you do not look on outward beauty but look at the inner beauty that your love brings. I praise you and love you.

I'm Growing Down

That we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried with every wind of doctrine but may grow up in all things into Him who is the the head—Christ. Ephesians 4:14,15.

Recently my granddaughter completed kindergarten. Although she should have been happy and excited about entering first grade in the fall, she went around the house with a very sad look on her face. Instead of celebrating the end of the school year with her friends, she proclaimed, “I want to stay in kindergarten!” Needless to say, this took me by surprise but Tori refused to explain to me what she meant by that statement. One night after reading a story together and saying our prayers I again brought up the subject of going into first grade. “Aren't you excited about going into first grade in the fall?” “No Nanny I am not. I want to stay in kindergarten for the rest of my life.” Now this was not exactly what I expected to hear. My son and daughter were glad to be one of the big kids so they could be one of the old timers at school and the envy of the little kids in kindergarten.

After recovering from the shock of Tori's remarks I attempted to explain to her that we all graduate from one stage in life to another. I went on to tell how each stage is built upon the last stage to help us grow. Imagine my shock when she looked at me with tears running down her face and said, “Nanny I know but growing up is so scary.”

I hugged her to me and brushed the tears from eyes and sighed. She was right—growing up is scary. I was at a tonal loss for words of comfort until I had an idea (a brilliant idea for me). “Listen, honey,” I gently began. “ I know growing up is hard but I am growing older too and that is scary for me too.”

“Wow!” I thought to myself. “This is brilliant.” So I continued. “You know growing up can be fun. Just think of all the new things you are going to learn. You will make new friends and have so much fun. But I am growing older and won't be able to do as many things as I once did. That is what makes growing old scary for me.”
After I had finished explaining this to her, I congratulated myself on my new found wisdom. I sat back, kissed her cheek gently and asked her if she understood what I was saying. With solemn eyes she replied, “Yeah, I think so.” Then her blue eyes widened with understanding and a smile crossed her face. “I understand, Nanny,” she exclaimed with a leap into my arms. “I'm growing up sand you are growing down.” Wow! Out of the mouths of babes. I had not thought of it quite that way but she was absolutely right. I am “growing down.” I used to be able to mow my lawn, clean my house completely and still practice baseball with the kids. Now if I can make sure the house is clean enough not to be condemned by the health officials I congratulate myself on making it through another week.

This sobering conversation with Tori caused me to reflect on my life. I was reminded of the challenges I have faced in my life. Some of these challenges left me feeling overwhelmed and confused about the meaning of my life. I never doubted God's love but I did doubt my ability to stand on my own two feet. I realized that these challenges have made me stronger and wiser. I would not be the person I am today without these experiences. I realized that God had not let me down but had held me up during these trying times.

I might be growing down in the physical realm. But I know God is “growing me up” with His love and grace. He is always with me each day to give me the wisdom and strength I need to fulfill His purpose in my life.

As I thought back on my life span, I began to realize that we should not just grow down physically but we should always strive to grow up in Him. To grow up in the Lord is something we should all do whether we are young or old. I hope that I able to helpTori grow in her relationship with God and always look to Him for her strength.

Yes Tori, growing up can be scary but with God holding our hands, there is nothing we cannot do. I want you to remember that God will grow us to be the people He intends for us to be if we only believe that everything is possible with Him and He promises us life that is eternal and abundant.

Today's Whisper:

As we grow older we might find we are slowing down. Journal about how you feel about aging. What can you not do that you could in your younger days? It has been said that with age comes wisdom. Do you feel this is true and think about whether you would rather be older and wise or if this is a fair comparison.

Today's Prayer:

Father, I come before you today with a thankful heart that you are still working on me and haven't given up on me. You are always here with me to help me grow in your knowledge and grace. I ask that as the days and years pass I can look to you and know that you are still molding me into the woman you want me to be. I may be growing older in earthly years but I ask for your wisdom and grace each and every day that I have left on this earth.