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

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.

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 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

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.

Every Knee Shall Bow

On Sunday, Joy Reid, an MSNBC host, made an idiotic comparison. She compared Christians kneeling in church to the overpaid, whiny ball players that took a knee in disrespect to our flag and our National Anthem. According to Ms. Reid, we Christians are hypocrites. Her reasoning for this comparison is both idiotic and illogical. Personally I am offended by her remarks.

She believes that it is odd for the same people who kneel in church to consider it highest form of reverence while calling out the whiny crybaby ball players for taking a knee on the field. Well, Ms. Reid, let me enlighten you on the difference between the two. When we kneel in church, it is to show reverence to our creator who has blessed this great country for so long. Other Christians and I bend our knees to honor God, the author and finisher of our faith. However, these “overpaid and oppressed” athletes are taking a knee, raising their fists in a black power salute, and pretending to be a dog urinating on the field are not kneeling reverence to our God. They are only showing reverence to themselves and are defying the one true God—the same God that has blessed them by allowing them to play the game they game they love and making money doing it.

Now, Ms. Reid, think back a year or so when a player did take a knee on the field. Do you remember what you in the lame stream media said about that? You told him to keep his faith out of the NFL. Football has no place for it. That player's name is Tim Tebow. Now do you remember? But now, you are all so concerned with the constitutional rights of free speech, but apparently only for some.

By the way, Ms. Reid, there will be a day when everyone on earth will kneel in front of God. That day is coming soon. Are you ready?

As always, you have the right to disagree with me but I have the right to my opinion. May God bless you all. Just saying.

The Beginning of Hope

When he came to his senses he said, “How many of my father's hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death?” So he got up and went to his father. Luke 15:17,20(a)

We all have problems and circumstances that may or may not be beyond our control. Yes, I admit when troubles come my way, I do not always focus on my Heavenly Father but try to work through the situation in my own strength. Like the son we read about in this parable I have been guilty of wasting my time and money and then feeling sorry for myself.. That is when I feel a nudge from the Holy Spirit, “I am here. Just trust me.”

I once read “the end of yourself is the beginning of hope.” The reason we so often keep hanging on to our hurts, still looking for the solution in our own strength and making little progress is because we haven't yet come to the end our ourselves. We are still trying to control the situation instead of getting out of God's way and letting Him work in us. If we find ourselves at the end of our rope, we should just tie a knot and hang on because that may be the place God wants us so He can strip our pride and accomplish what He wants to do in us and through us.

The prodigal son came to the end of himself when he realized the pigs he was caring for had more to eat than he did. It was then that he decided to go home to his father. Did his father turn him away?: No! He welcomed him back with open arms..That is what our Heavenly Father will do when we come to the ends of ourselves. He will run to meet us with outstretched arms. What a beautiful picture that is. I can just see it in my mind's eye. Can't you? What an awesome God we serve!

`

Remember When

Think back if you can to a time when children were allowed to pray in school and even say the pledge to the United States flag every morning.  What! You don’t remember this.  Well let me tell you a story about how life used to be in this country.
Families actually had two parents.  If death had separated the parents, aunts, uncles, grandmothers and even the community came together to help the family. Divorces were seldom heard of.  You knew your neighbors—in fact—everyone in the community was your neighbor and all you had to do was ask for help and everyone that was able came to your aid.  Our neighborhoods were so safe, we kids could play outside until 10 or 11 o’clock at night.  We didn’t have air conditioning so we slept with windows open and sometimes even our doors because there was no such thing as crime.  Of course, we had neighborhood drunks and the occasional teen age boys that drag raced down the highway but nothing as serious as today.
If any of us kids caused any problem at school we could expect the punishment to be resumed when we returned home that afternoon.
We were taught to respect our elders and say “yes ma’am”, “no sir”, “please” and “thank you.” If a neighbor needed help with yard work or running errands, we helped without thoughts of “how much are you going to pay me”?  We had chores to do and if we forgot to do them we knew we could expect to have a “memory lesson” that would do the trick. No, we were not abused.  We were taught that to be a member of a family and the benefits that came with that also brought with it responsibility to help the family.  We brought that lesson with us to adulthood.
We were allowed freedom to have fun but we were always held accountable for where we went and what we did.  Although there were no phones our parents knew what we had been doing even before we got home.  That’s because we had “nosey” neighbors that were looking out for us.
We didn’t have video games or even much t.v but we had fun with our family and friends.
Yes, we said prayers and the pledge in school.  We helped each other.  There was no shouts of hate or police brutality no rioting in the streets or teenagers robbing the neighborhood store or beating up the elderly. The leaders of this country knew how to lead the country and be the leader of everyone in the country and not cater to a small segment of the population.
No friends, back when I was a kid, we were taught responsibility by our parents.  Our parents raised us themselves—not nannies, maids, babysitters or the gangs at the corner.  We were shown respect and we, in turn, gave respect to others.
I think this country would be better off if our society today went back to the days when we treated everyone the way the Bible teaches us: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and mind and love your neighbor as yourself”.

Who Can Cast The First stone?

I’m sure by now everyone who watches television, reads the paper, and uses social media knows about Kim Davis, the Rowan County clerk, jailed for her refusal to issue marriage licenses to same sex couples.  She has both supporters and critics.  A rally was held in her support on the day of her release and many public officials attended including Mike Huckabee, a GOP presidential candidate.
What really concerns me about this issue is her critics that are using her past to color her present. “She has been divorced four times and had an extramarital affair.” My question is “Who among us can cast the first stone?” In the gospel of John Chapter 8 in the Bible we read of an adulterous woman who was brought to Jesus by the Pharisees. They were trying to trick Jesus by using the Law given to Moses.  “In the law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with His finger.  When they kept questioning Him He straightened up and said to them. "Let any one who is without sin to be the first to throw a stone at her."Again, He stooped down and wrote on the ground. (John 8:5-8)
Do you know who threw the first stone? NOBODY. Instead they began to walk away. Do you know why? Because not a one of them was without sin! My question to you today is are you qualified to throw the first stone or do you have sin in your life?
If her adultery happened before she gave her life to God—that sin was forgiven by the blood of Jesus shed on the cross. If her sins were not forgiven no one’s sins were forgiven and Christ died in vain.
You might not believe the Bible and disagree with me. That is okay. You have that right but I also have to right to my beliefs.  I would rather stand with God and be judged by the world than stand with the world and be judged by God.

The Son Still Shines

How long will you who are simple love your simple ways? How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge?  Proverbs 1:22

We live in a society that has tried to eliminate God. Children cannot say the Lord’s Prayer or even pray in schools anymore. The Bible is not allowed in schools but our children are being indoctrinated in the ways of Allah and Islam. Homosexuality is embraced while Christians who are embracing the Biblical view of marriage are being outlawed.  Christian business owners are being forced to violate their beliefs or be fined or jailed for their Christian beliefs.  In fact, Christians are referred to as “radical extremists” that need to be isolated from “normal citizens”.  Our government feels the need to protect citizens from these “radical, Christian bigots”.  Christians re being persecuted and killed all over the world while Islam is being hailed as a religion of peace.  The adherents of this peaceful religion are beheading “infidels”, raping and selling women and children for sex slaves and throwing homosexuals from buildings as punishment for their sinful behavior.

Celebrities who are too often seen as role models for our youth are openly cursing God and worshipping their awards and accomplishments.  On the other hand, celebrities who are Christians are constantly being told not to talk about their faith openly or being punished for their faith.  Tim Tebow, a prominent sports star was ridiculed for his outward show of faith.  Christians are being ridiculed while recently, a transgendered person was given a reward for bravery while the real heroes of our armed forces are being overlooked.  Our military has not escaped the discrimination of the left as they are being downsized and prosecuted for their show of faith.  Even chaplains in our military are being discharged and told not to speak the name of Jesus or say anything against homosexuals.  They are not free to do the job they have been called to do because it “might offend someone”.  Jesus offended people when He walked this earth but He did not stop doing His Father’s business because of it.  Jesus said that “if you are ashamed of me I will be ashamed of you in front of my Father.”  I would rather live my life in God’s will than live a life that honors man and keep God out.

People today are embracing the idea that man is an independent being who has no use for God.  In fact, many people go as far to say “We are gods of our own lives and there are no absolutes in this life.  If it feels good do it.”  People are more involved in putting accomplishments, people, and possessions in the placed that should be occupied by God.

Friends, there is good news for Christians!  God still sits upon the throne and He is still in control.  We can see His presence all around us.  Look around you and see how God shows us His presence and love each day.  Look at the sunrise and sunset.  No man can put such beautiful colors together—only God can do that.  No artist can put the rainbow in the sky. Only God could put such colors together in the sky.  He gives us this beautiful arc in the sky as a promise to His children.  He sends the sunshine and the rain to make the trees and flowers grow.

Friends, God loves so much that He gave us the most precious gift ever given to man. He gave us His only so9n to live among us, to die on the cross, and to arise again. He gave us His son to pay the penalty of our sins. Can you think of a greater love than this? I can’t.

People today may try to deny God’s presence but the truth is His presence cannot be denied. We can close the door and shut the shades at our windows to blot out the sun but the sun will still shine. We can close our hearts so He cannot enter but that doesn’t stop His glory. Nothing can diminish God’s glory and love for His children. It will always be there for us—always

A man can no longer diminish God’s glory by refusing to worship Him than a lunatic can put out the sun by scribbling the word “darkness” on the walls of his cell.  C.S. Lewis

Memories of You

I’ve heard it said that “time heals all wounds but friends, that is not entirely true.  Time put a band aid on  my heart but when a certain song comes on the radio, or I remember something he said, or something he did the band aid is ripped off the wound.  The pain comes back as deep and bleeding as much as that first day.  I know I will see him again and that is what I am so desperately holding on to.  Although May 27 marked the the third year he has been gone, it seems as though I lose him each and every day.  Oh, I have gone on with my life because I have others depending on me.  I have even laughed at times but the hurt never goes away completely.  I am reminded of him is something Nikolas says or Christian does.  I know that through them and all the lives he touched here on this earth, he will live on and on in our hearts. 

So as we embark on the fourth year of missing you I know you are looking down on us and watching over us.  Jason, my son; Kim’s brother; Tori, Christian, Nikolas and Alyssa’s uncle we love you and miss you each and every day.  We will see you someday soon.

What’s In a Name?

17 I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. 18 For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people.  Romans 16:17-18 (NIV)

Well, friends, it appears we have people in this world trying to make people believe they are true reverends when in fact, what they preach is as far from the word of God as the north is from the south.  I am not denying them the right to call themselves whatever they want.  However, just because they call themselves reverends does not make it so.  I could stand in the garage and call myself a car but would that make it true?   The danger in these people calling themselves men of God is the number of people that is totally taken in by these false claims. This type of deceit is spiritually and morally wrong.  I, for one, would not want to bear the responsibility of the lives and souls of the vulnerable and, dare I say, gullible people that subscribe to that line of thinking.

Three decades ago, a man called Jim Jones in a place he called Jonestown in Guyana, led hundreds of people in a mass suicide.  He convinced his followers that he was God’s prophet and at times he was God.  Years later, a man named David Koresh led many to their deaths in Waco, Texas.  He also convinced his followers he was God.  These are only two examples of the devastation that men have caused when they proclaim to be true men of God.  Many lives were lost and families destroyed by these egomaniacal self proclaimed men of God.

God has warned us to “Beware of false prophets which come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly they are ravening wolves.” Matthew 7:15.  In today’s news we see this happening now.  We see blacks being pitted against whites because these ravening wolves are deceiving many.  We see violence being perpetuated against innocent people because of the color of their skin.  This violence is being encouraged by these “so called” reverends.  They teach that only certain people matter.  But friend, God made us all in His image.  He loves each and everyone of us.  What these deceitful people are teaching do not line up with the Bible.  We are taught that we must test the spirits to see if their teachings are in line with what God teaches.  We must be able to discern the true teachings from the false teachers that claim to be of God but will be destroyed by God.  Not everyone that professes to love God and profess to teach in His name will be recognized by Him.

Don’t misunderstand me.  I am not judging anyone. If these people want to call themselves reverends to elevate themselves in their own minds, they must be prepared to answer for the lives and souls they are ruining.  I could call myself a doctor.  It might make me feel important but would you honestly want me to operate on you or a member of your family?  I thought not.

Now my disclaimer:  IF YOU EXPECT AN APOLOGY FROM ME YOU WON’T GET ONE.

Keep On Keeping On

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.Galatians 6:9

"I give up! I can't do this! It's too hard!" Nick slammed his math book shut. I stopped washing dishes and sat down beside him. After helping him for about 20 minutes he hugged me. "Now I understand and it is not as hard as I thought." He gathered up his books and prepared for school the next morning. I sent him to the shower before he went to bed.

After his shower and he had gone to bed, I sat down to relax a bit before I finished my nightly routine. I began to think about Nick and his homework. I realized that I too, want to give up and quit when success seems out of reach. Sometimes when I work on a goal and run into a brick wall I want to throw up my hands in despair. That is when I cry out to God, "Lord, this is too hard! I can't do it. You are asking too much from me." I often feel defeated before I start because I try to work in my own strength.

Just when I feel overwhelmed with my endeavors, God speaks to my heart, "Child, I am here for you-- don't forget that you do not have to go alone in your own strength. I called you for a special purpose and I will go before you and equip you with all you need. Don't give up. You helped Nick with his homework and he knew you were there for him. I want you to know that I am here for you."

I would like to say that all my doubts were wiped away but I can't. Doubts still come and I still get overwhelmed at times. I would like to say that I never want to give up and reach every goal I attempt without fear. Again I can't say that. I still have doubts about my ability but when these doubts do rear their ugly heads, I remember I don't have to face them alone. I have a loving and caring Father who will always be with me to help me keep on keeping on.

When you get into a tight place and everything goes against you, till it seems as though you could not hang on one minute longer, never give up then, for that is just the place and time that the tides will change, Harriet Beecher Stowe

Don't Quit

Don't Quit no matter what!

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will

When the road you're trudging seems all uphill,

When funds are low and the debts are high,

And you want to smile but you have to sigh,

When care is pressing you down a bit,

Rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is queer with its twists and turns,

As every one of us sometimes learns,

And many a failure turns about,

When he might have won if he'd stuck it out.

Don't give up, though the pace seems slow -

You may succeed with another blow.

Often the goal is nearer than It seems to a faint and faltering man;

Often the struggler has given up

When he might have captured the victor's cup,

And he learned too late, when the night slipped down,

How close he was to the golden crown.

Success is failure turned inside out -

The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,

And you never can tell how close you are -

It may be near when it seems afar;

So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit -

It's when things seem worst that you mustn't quit. -

by Author Unknown

Where My Loyalties Lie

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. Yes, I admit I often fail Him but He has never failed me.  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 me 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 racists 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.

I am not saying I am perfect—far from it.  But, I do know that God is always with me and will give me the strength I need for whatever comes my way.

With the elections coming up, I pray that His people will carefully weigh the issues at hand and not vote for the candidate that tells you  just what sounds good but the candidate that will uphold the law of our land and do what is right for America.  Our country is on a downhill slide and the results of this election will determine the direction our country and the world will take.   I do not take this responsibility lightly and I hope you don’t either.

Truth or Consequences

The lip of truth shall be established forever, but a lying tongue is but for a moment.  Proverbs 12:19

We all fall for lies sometimes.  Let’s face it—truth is often boring; it’s much more exciting to think our neighbor is a “wanted fugitive” rather than to know the truth that he is just a hard-working father and coach for his kids’ little league team.
Lies can be more believable than the truth.  We can believe lies the politicians tell us or the smooth talking salesman that hooks us in their deception.  Too often we discover  the truth when it is too late.The politician is elected and his true agenda is then made known.  The wonderful car we bought from the salesman breaks down after we finalize the deal.  The man who promised a good job leaves and does not return to finish the job after the money changes hands.  We all learn the truth the hard way and chalk these deceptions up to experience.
I have come to the end of a long and painful battle trying to dispel lies told about me.  Although the lies were exposed and truth was finally reve4aled, more people chose to believe the lies and I am left to deal with the aftermath.  What hurts even more is the fact that two of my family members started these untruths.  I know God is holding me up and has promised He will never leave me to suffer alone.  I can rest assured that although these people continue to prosper and live their lives without obvious consequences, the consequences will eventually come.  It is up to God to deal with them.  I am so glad He is in control.
I Peter 5:8,9 tells us the enemy prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.  Resist him, standing firm in the faith.  We are not alone alone in our struggles.  God is there with us and He will make us strong.
Don’t let satan work his web of of deceit.  If we focus on God’s love and presence, He will give us peace that the “father of lies” cannot take away.
A lie travels around the world while truth is putting her boots on.  Jewish Proverb

I’m Growing Down

I’m Growing Down

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 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 her going into first grade. Aren’t you excited about going into first grade in the fall?” “No, nanny, I’m 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—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 to tell her 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 that but growing up is so scary.” I hugged her to me and brushed the tears from her eyes and sighed. She was right—growing up is scary—and I was at a total loss for words of comfort until I had an idea (a brilliant idea for me, I thought).

“Listen, Honey,” I gently began. “I know growing up is hard but I am growing older too and it is scary for me. Wow! This is brilliant, I thought to myself. So I continued, “You know growing up can be fun. Just think, Sweetheart, you are going to learn how to do so many new things, meet new friends and have so much fun. But I’m growing older and won’t be able to do as many things as I once did. That is what makes growing older scary for me.”

After I had finished explaining this to her, I congratulated myself on my wonderful 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 eyes widened with understanding and a smile crossed her face. “I understand now Nanny,” she exclaimed with a leap into my arms. “I’m growing up and you’re growing down. Wow! Out of the mouth of babes! I had not thought of it quite that way but she was absolutely right. I used to be able to mow my yard, clean my house completely and still p0ractice baseball with the kids. Now if I can make sure the house is clean enough not to 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 for me but I did have doubts about my ability. I realized that these challenges made me stronger and wiser. I would not be the person I am today without these experiences. I realized that God has not let me down but instead had held me up during these trying times.

I might be “growing down” in the physical realm, but I know that 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” in age but we should always strive to grow up also. To grow up in the Lord is something we should all do whether we are young or old. I hope that I am able to help Tori 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 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 a life that is eternal and abundant.

I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.

Philippians 4:13

Then we will no longer be infants tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect, the mature body of Him who is the that is Christ.

Ephesians 4:15, 16

But grow in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

2 Peter 3:18

Today’s Whisper: Journal about ways you can mature in the Lord.  What does maturing in the Lord mean to you:? Does maturing in the Lord automatically come with age or does it take effort on our part:?

Today's Prayer: Father, help me to grow in wisdom and knowledge of you. Hold my hands and help me as I go through each day. I depend on you and your word. I know that you love me and are always there for me. Help Tori as she grows up to always follow you so she can always know you are there for her in the stages of growing—both physically and spiritually.

*Since writing this, the little girl in the story is now entering college and I have seen three others children through kindergarten.  Through it all they continue to grow up and I continue to grow down.  But I do know that God will help them to grow up and me to grow up in Him.

A Letter To My Son

Dear Jason,

I didn’t think I would make it to this day.  It has been a year since God came down from Heaven and called you home.  It has been a tough year, I think about you every single day.  I still see your smile and feel your arms around me.  Someone once said that “the love of a mother and son is a bond that can never be broken.”  Well, son it is true—not even death can break that bond.  I have dreamed of you so many times and it is in those times that I know you are still here watching over me.  I know you have gotten to know your brother or sister.  Tell him I love him even though I didn’t get a chance to hold and cuddle him. 

Everyone here is doing fine—we all still miss you and talk about often.  The kids are out of school for the summer and are enjoying the break from school.  Kim said to tell you hello and she loves her big brother.

Tell everyone there I love them and I know I will see you all one day and we will spend eternity together.

I love you son, and that will never change.

Love,

Your Mom