Ps 103:1 Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His Holy Name.
:2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits;
Wow I could stop right there (but I won't :-), and just sit and praise Him all day!
:3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;
:4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;
:5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Isn't this awesome? You know there are a lot of promises God has given us in His word. But do you realize that this is all facts? These are not just promises for the future. They are facts for right now! I don't know if you find that as incredible as I do but WOW! No wonder the beginning starts with praising the Lord! I say along with the writer, BLESS THE LORD O MY SOUL AND ALL THAT IS WITHIN ME BLESS HIS HOLY NAME!!!!
Monday, April 30, 2007
My first double knit project!
I was really hoping the colors would show up. This is my first attempt at double knitting and I love it. I am using black and dark green cause son has to wear black hat for work and he likes dark green lol. The hat will be reversible. Will take another picture when I finish it.
Friday, April 27, 2007
All
Deut 6:5 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.
Duet 10:12 And now, Israel, what doth the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk in ALL His ways, and to love Him, and to serve the Lord thy God with ALL thy heart and with all thy soul.
Mt 6:33 But seek ye first the kindom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Mt 22:37 Jesus said unto him, thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul and with all thy mind.
The Lord makes it pretty clear to us in these verses that we are to love Him and do all of His will.
Phil 2:13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.
:14 Do all things without murmurings and disputings.
He also makes it clear we should do it with a right heart attitude.
Phil 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strentheneth me.
Phil 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
He tells us the reason we are able to do these things is because of His helping us.
Col 3:17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father of Him.
Every day when I bring our 17 year old son to work, we pray this scripture for him. He wants to do a good job and this keeps his focus on the one who can and will help him. Our son is of a small physical build and with the Lord's help he is able to do all of the physical work required of him. This week he is scheduled 32 hours while others doing the same thing were scheduled 4 hours. It is only through Christ that he is able to do all of the school work he has as a junior (we homeschool), work that amount of hours, and keep up our yard. He realizes this and if he is the one to pray that day he makes sure and prays for the Lord's help and strength as do I. God is honoring his work ethic because our son is giving God the glory for what He enables him to do.
Duet 10:12 And now, Israel, what doth the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk in ALL His ways, and to love Him, and to serve the Lord thy God with ALL thy heart and with all thy soul.
Mt 6:33 But seek ye first the kindom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Mt 22:37 Jesus said unto him, thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul and with all thy mind.
The Lord makes it pretty clear to us in these verses that we are to love Him and do all of His will.
Phil 2:13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.
:14 Do all things without murmurings and disputings.
He also makes it clear we should do it with a right heart attitude.
Phil 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strentheneth me.
Phil 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
He tells us the reason we are able to do these things is because of His helping us.
Col 3:17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father of Him.
Every day when I bring our 17 year old son to work, we pray this scripture for him. He wants to do a good job and this keeps his focus on the one who can and will help him. Our son is of a small physical build and with the Lord's help he is able to do all of the physical work required of him. This week he is scheduled 32 hours while others doing the same thing were scheduled 4 hours. It is only through Christ that he is able to do all of the school work he has as a junior (we homeschool), work that amount of hours, and keep up our yard. He realizes this and if he is the one to pray that day he makes sure and prays for the Lord's help and strength as do I. God is honoring his work ethic because our son is giving God the glory for what He enables him to do.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Far above rubies
Pr 31:10 Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies.
I think Proverbs 31 verses are some of the most beautiful. On the surface we might think it is impossible to be like this woman. But with Christ, all things are possible. Now I don't expect for this to happen in one day :-).
But think about our lives as a quilt. One that we start when we are young and add fabric and stitches, or remove fabric and stitches to every day of our lives. It is an on going process and it will take our entire lifetime to complete.
We need to really SEE the second part of this verse and remember it when the world or the devil try to make us think we aren't worth much. To God (and hopefully to our husbands) we are worth more then rubies !!
I am so encouraged when I read that!
We need to follow the direction that God has already given us. Most of the time we fail not because we don't know what to do but from lack of obedience.
Let's remember that we are responsible for our behavior, attitude, role as a christian woman, wife and mother.
I think Proverbs 31 verses are some of the most beautiful. On the surface we might think it is impossible to be like this woman. But with Christ, all things are possible. Now I don't expect for this to happen in one day :-).
But think about our lives as a quilt. One that we start when we are young and add fabric and stitches, or remove fabric and stitches to every day of our lives. It is an on going process and it will take our entire lifetime to complete.
We need to really SEE the second part of this verse and remember it when the world or the devil try to make us think we aren't worth much. To God (and hopefully to our husbands) we are worth more then rubies !!
I am so encouraged when I read that!
We need to follow the direction that God has already given us. Most of the time we fail not because we don't know what to do but from lack of obedience.
Let's remember that we are responsible for our behavior, attitude, role as a christian woman, wife and mother.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Growing in the Lord
2 Pet 3:18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.
1 Jn 5:11 And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.
:12 He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.
Jesus Christ was God in the flesh, living on earth, and dying on a cross to save sinners like me and to give all who choose Him as Savior eternal life.
Rom 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.
Doesn't matter how "good" we are, we have sinned and we need Jesus as our Savior.
2 Cor 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold all things are new.
He will make us brand new when we accept Him as Savior!
Eph 1:6 To the praise of the glory of His grace, wherein He hath made us accepted in the beloved.
When we accept Him, He makes us accepted.
2 Cor 12:9 And He said unto me, My grace is sufficent for thee; for My strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
His grace is enough no matter how I feel today, or what I am facing today. I don't know about you, but the way I feel physically today, this encourages me alot.
Lk 2:52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.
Just as Jesus increased in wisdom we need to also. The way to do that is to study His word and have an open heart so that He can help us to grow in His wisdom and grace.
1 Jn 5:11 And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.
:12 He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.
Jesus Christ was God in the flesh, living on earth, and dying on a cross to save sinners like me and to give all who choose Him as Savior eternal life.
Rom 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.
Doesn't matter how "good" we are, we have sinned and we need Jesus as our Savior.
2 Cor 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold all things are new.
He will make us brand new when we accept Him as Savior!
Eph 1:6 To the praise of the glory of His grace, wherein He hath made us accepted in the beloved.
When we accept Him, He makes us accepted.
2 Cor 12:9 And He said unto me, My grace is sufficent for thee; for My strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
His grace is enough no matter how I feel today, or what I am facing today. I don't know about you, but the way I feel physically today, this encourages me alot.
Lk 2:52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.
Just as Jesus increased in wisdom we need to also. The way to do that is to study His word and have an open heart so that He can help us to grow in His wisdom and grace.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Are you sinking?
Mt 14:24 But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary.
:25 And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.
:26 And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.
:27 But straightway Jesus spake unto them saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.
:28 And Peter answered Him and said, Lord if it be thou, bid me come unto Thee on the water.
I don't think I ever really noticed the word if here before. Could this be where satan planted the seed of doubt?
:29 And He said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.
Peter was able to walk on the water because he was going to Jesus.
:30 But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying Lord, save me.
:31 And immediately Jesus stretched forth His hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?
Here the little seed of doubt grows big and causes him to sink. Because he took his eyes and focus off of Jesus and put them on the situation.
Just like Peter at some point all of us are sinking. Just like Peter we need to put our eyes and focus back on Jesus. Just like Peter we need to ask Jesus to save us from the situation. But unlike Peter we must NOT doubt.
Heb 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
Jesus is right there in the situation with us, just as He was with Peter.
:25 And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.
:26 And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.
:27 But straightway Jesus spake unto them saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.
:28 And Peter answered Him and said, Lord if it be thou, bid me come unto Thee on the water.
I don't think I ever really noticed the word if here before. Could this be where satan planted the seed of doubt?
:29 And He said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.
Peter was able to walk on the water because he was going to Jesus.
:30 But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying Lord, save me.
:31 And immediately Jesus stretched forth His hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?
Here the little seed of doubt grows big and causes him to sink. Because he took his eyes and focus off of Jesus and put them on the situation.
Just like Peter at some point all of us are sinking. Just like Peter we need to put our eyes and focus back on Jesus. Just like Peter we need to ask Jesus to save us from the situation. But unlike Peter we must NOT doubt.
Heb 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
Jesus is right there in the situation with us, just as He was with Peter.
Friday, April 20, 2007
My supper
I thought I would take a quick minute and post my recipe for tonight. I am making spaghetti and meatballs in the crockpot.
Crockpot Spaghetti and Meatballs
Meatball ingredients:
1 pound lean ground meat
1 cup Italian bread crumbs
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder ( i put more cause we love garlic)
1 egg, beaten
salt and pepper to taste, go easy on the salt cause of the bread crumbs and cheese
Sauce ingredients:
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped small
1 can tomato paste
3 cans crushed tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons sugar
2 bay leaves
3 teaspoons salt
pepper to taste
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, parsley, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, egg and seasoning to taste. Mix well and form into 12 meatballs. Store, covered in refrigerator until needed.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, saute the onions and garlic in olive oil till translucent. Add in tomato products, beef broth, sugar and seasonings and bay leaves. Mix well. Transfer to crockpot and cook on low for 2 hours. Add in meatballs and cook at least 2 more hours.
serve over boiled pasta of your choice.
I will have steamed broccoli and garlic bread with it.
Crockpot Spaghetti and Meatballs
Meatball ingredients:
1 pound lean ground meat
1 cup Italian bread crumbs
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder ( i put more cause we love garlic)
1 egg, beaten
salt and pepper to taste, go easy on the salt cause of the bread crumbs and cheese
Sauce ingredients:
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped small
1 can tomato paste
3 cans crushed tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons sugar
2 bay leaves
3 teaspoons salt
pepper to taste
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, parsley, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, egg and seasoning to taste. Mix well and form into 12 meatballs. Store, covered in refrigerator until needed.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, saute the onions and garlic in olive oil till translucent. Add in tomato products, beef broth, sugar and seasonings and bay leaves. Mix well. Transfer to crockpot and cook on low for 2 hours. Add in meatballs and cook at least 2 more hours.
serve over boiled pasta of your choice.
I will have steamed broccoli and garlic bread with it.
She looketh well to the ways of her household
Pr 31:27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
Let's start by me saying that since dealing with menopause I sometimes struggle with lack of energy. This week has been one of those weeks. Yesterday I had absolutely no energy and I did the bare essentials. My son stepped up yesterday and helped me with the things that needed to be done. Today I don't have much energy again. My first thought when I read this was why couldn't I have read this the other day when I had energy and scrubbed the floors. But knowing in my heart that God's timing is always perfect let's look at it closer.
She watches over her household. I am sure she covers all of them in prayer every day. This could also mean that she makes sure that everyone is doing their part. Just as my son stepped in and helped yesterday. It doesn't say she did everything herself. But the last part is what I am struggling with today. I didn't get out of bed till 8:30 this morning, and I usually get up around 7:30. I haven't been sleeping well at night for a few nights now. But these are really just excuses aren't they? I could sleep till noon and if I got up and did what needs to be done it really wouldn't be a problem. The problem is if I don't force myself I will do nothing today.
Now I realize that sometimes we need a rest. A day off if you will and there is nothing wrong with that. I take a day off or at least a few hours usually once a week. But that is after I have my home in order. It is my attitude right now that is wrong. There were things I could have done yesterday to prepare for today that don't require a lot of energy. Today is pay day and I need to grocery shop. I could have sat and worked on a menu plan and a grocery list. But because of my attitude I didn't. UGH I totally ate the bread of idleness. If I were ill it wouldn't bother me, but I am not. Yes I am dealing with menopause issues, but I have been dealing with them awhile and that also is an excuse. So this morning I sought the Lord to change my attitude. To give me energy and a desire to do those things He would have me do today.
What does your day look like?
Let's start by me saying that since dealing with menopause I sometimes struggle with lack of energy. This week has been one of those weeks. Yesterday I had absolutely no energy and I did the bare essentials. My son stepped up yesterday and helped me with the things that needed to be done. Today I don't have much energy again. My first thought when I read this was why couldn't I have read this the other day when I had energy and scrubbed the floors. But knowing in my heart that God's timing is always perfect let's look at it closer.
She watches over her household. I am sure she covers all of them in prayer every day. This could also mean that she makes sure that everyone is doing their part. Just as my son stepped in and helped yesterday. It doesn't say she did everything herself. But the last part is what I am struggling with today. I didn't get out of bed till 8:30 this morning, and I usually get up around 7:30. I haven't been sleeping well at night for a few nights now. But these are really just excuses aren't they? I could sleep till noon and if I got up and did what needs to be done it really wouldn't be a problem. The problem is if I don't force myself I will do nothing today.
Now I realize that sometimes we need a rest. A day off if you will and there is nothing wrong with that. I take a day off or at least a few hours usually once a week. But that is after I have my home in order. It is my attitude right now that is wrong. There were things I could have done yesterday to prepare for today that don't require a lot of energy. Today is pay day and I need to grocery shop. I could have sat and worked on a menu plan and a grocery list. But because of my attitude I didn't. UGH I totally ate the bread of idleness. If I were ill it wouldn't bother me, but I am not. Yes I am dealing with menopause issues, but I have been dealing with them awhile and that also is an excuse. So this morning I sought the Lord to change my attitude. To give me energy and a desire to do those things He would have me do today.
What does your day look like?
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Prayer
Ps 121:1 I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills from whence cometh my help.
:2 My help cometh from the Lord which made heaven and earth.
Prayer will deepen your relationship with God. It is your personal talking time with God. Remember to listen to God and not do all the talking yourself.
Keep a prayer journal. You faith will increase as you see God's answer to those prayers. Even if they aren't the answers you wanted or expected.
Jn 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer: I have overcome the world.
1 Pet 5:7 Casting all your care upon Him: for He careth for you.
God tells us to let Him have our cares and concerns. Prayer is the way to do that. Just remember to NOT pick those cares up again when you finish praying. (Don't ask how I know this :-)
Ps 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
This verse reminds me that God is always with me. I don't have to shout for Him to hear me when I have a problem. Remember Hannah? Her lips moved but not a sound was heard. But God heard her and answered her prayer.
Lk 18:1 And He spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint.
Always to pray and not faint. In other words, if we are in the habit of praying always, we won't panic when something happens, instead we will pray.
Prayer changes situations, lives and most importantly, it changes us.
Prayer is a time for confession so we can get cleansed from sin.
Prayer helps us make good decisions if we pray about those decisions and allow God to answer us.
Prayer for others helps improve our relationship with them. It also helps us to focus on them and not ourselves.
Mt 5:44 But I say unto you, love your enemies; bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you.
Yes God tells us we have to pray even if we don't like them.
Ps 84:11 For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord gives grace and glory: no good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly.
I can find peace and contentment in prayer. If I walk according to His will this says He will withhold no good thing from me.
If I am bringing every decision first to God, and listening to and obeying what He shows me to do, then I can have confidence I am doing the right thing.
Prayer is a ministry we can easily do, all it requires is our time. It doesn't have to take hours either. God hears the short sincere prayer.
:2 My help cometh from the Lord which made heaven and earth.
Prayer will deepen your relationship with God. It is your personal talking time with God. Remember to listen to God and not do all the talking yourself.
Keep a prayer journal. You faith will increase as you see God's answer to those prayers. Even if they aren't the answers you wanted or expected.
Jn 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer: I have overcome the world.
1 Pet 5:7 Casting all your care upon Him: for He careth for you.
God tells us to let Him have our cares and concerns. Prayer is the way to do that. Just remember to NOT pick those cares up again when you finish praying. (Don't ask how I know this :-)
Ps 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
This verse reminds me that God is always with me. I don't have to shout for Him to hear me when I have a problem. Remember Hannah? Her lips moved but not a sound was heard. But God heard her and answered her prayer.
Lk 18:1 And He spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint.
Always to pray and not faint. In other words, if we are in the habit of praying always, we won't panic when something happens, instead we will pray.
Prayer changes situations, lives and most importantly, it changes us.
Prayer is a time for confession so we can get cleansed from sin.
Prayer helps us make good decisions if we pray about those decisions and allow God to answer us.
Prayer for others helps improve our relationship with them. It also helps us to focus on them and not ourselves.
Mt 5:44 But I say unto you, love your enemies; bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you.
Yes God tells us we have to pray even if we don't like them.
Ps 84:11 For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord gives grace and glory: no good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly.
I can find peace and contentment in prayer. If I walk according to His will this says He will withhold no good thing from me.
If I am bringing every decision first to God, and listening to and obeying what He shows me to do, then I can have confidence I am doing the right thing.
Prayer is a ministry we can easily do, all it requires is our time. It doesn't have to take hours either. God hears the short sincere prayer.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
I've been tagged !
Ok I am supposed to tell you 10 things about myself you may not know. hmmm
1. I love the Lord, but you probably figured that out lol.
2. I enjoy quilting and knitting.
3. I like to be organized but not always doing the organizing lol.
4. I would rather scrub the toilet then mop the floors.
5. I started graying at age 17, and was mostly gray before age 30.
6. We have four children here and 5 with the Lord.
7. We have three daughters and a son, and in grandchildren we have 3 grandsons and a granddaughter so far.
8. I dislike drinking water, and drink tea mostly, occasionally a dr pepper.
9. I love to fish, but only when the weather is not to hot, not to cold.
10. I hate strawberries and oysters.
1. I love the Lord, but you probably figured that out lol.
2. I enjoy quilting and knitting.
3. I like to be organized but not always doing the organizing lol.
4. I would rather scrub the toilet then mop the floors.
5. I started graying at age 17, and was mostly gray before age 30.
6. We have four children here and 5 with the Lord.
7. We have three daughters and a son, and in grandchildren we have 3 grandsons and a granddaughter so far.
8. I dislike drinking water, and drink tea mostly, occasionally a dr pepper.
9. I love to fish, but only when the weather is not to hot, not to cold.
10. I hate strawberries and oysters.
GOD IS SOOOO GOOD!!!
For those that don't know, my 8 year old granddaughter was diagnosed with bells palsey about 2 months ago. I just got off the phone with my daughter and her eye brow and corner of her mouth is starting to come back !!!!! God is soooo good!!!! Praising Him !!
I have asked my daughter to write up the path the Lord has brought her down as they deal with this, and she has agreed to try. It has been a difficult thing to deal with for them and she isn't sure she is up to it, but prayfully she is.
I have asked my daughter to write up the path the Lord has brought her down as they deal with this, and she has agreed to try. It has been a difficult thing to deal with for them and she isn't sure she is up to it, but prayfully she is.
If you can't say something nice, ...
say nothing at all. Remember that saying? It was one my mom used a lot. Here are some scriptures where the Lord tells us the same thing.
Pr 25:11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.
Pr 15:11 A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
Pr 16:24 Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.
Pr 27:15 A continual dropping in a very raining day and a contentious woman are alike.
1 Sam 1:2 And he had two wives; the name of one was Hannah, and the other Peninnah: and Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children.
:6 And her adversary also provoked her sore, for to make her fret, because the Lord had shut up her womb.
:10 And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the Lord, and wept sore.
:13 Now Hannah, she spake in her heart; only her lips moved, but her voice was not heard: therefore Eli thought she had been drunken.
Heb 4:15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feelings of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
:16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
Ps 19:14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, o Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.
Well if anyone had a reason to be vocal in her unhappiness it was Hannah. Her husband had 2 wives, she couldn't have a baby, the other wife rubbed it in her face every chance she got. But what did Hannah do? She took it to the only One who could do something about the situation. She took it to God in prayer.
How often do I speak my "mind" and make sure that everyone around knows how wronged I have been, or how mistreated I have been, etc etc etc. When really the best thing I can do is what Hannah did. Take it to the Lord in prayer. He can change the situation, He can change the other person. He can change ME! OUCH ! Maybe that is why I think I need to handle the situation with words. I don't want to take the chance that it is ME who needs changing and not the situation or the other person. Maybe my heart is wrong about the situation. Double ouch.
Thankfully I have a Saviour who is ready and willing to forgive me if I seek Him. But first I must seek Him. And be willing to act on what He shows me. And maybe, just maybe this time, it won't be me that needs changing.
Pr 25:11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.
Pr 15:11 A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
Pr 16:24 Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.
Pr 27:15 A continual dropping in a very raining day and a contentious woman are alike.
1 Sam 1:2 And he had two wives; the name of one was Hannah, and the other Peninnah: and Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children.
:6 And her adversary also provoked her sore, for to make her fret, because the Lord had shut up her womb.
:10 And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the Lord, and wept sore.
:13 Now Hannah, she spake in her heart; only her lips moved, but her voice was not heard: therefore Eli thought she had been drunken.
Heb 4:15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feelings of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
:16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
Ps 19:14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, o Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.
Well if anyone had a reason to be vocal in her unhappiness it was Hannah. Her husband had 2 wives, she couldn't have a baby, the other wife rubbed it in her face every chance she got. But what did Hannah do? She took it to the only One who could do something about the situation. She took it to God in prayer.
How often do I speak my "mind" and make sure that everyone around knows how wronged I have been, or how mistreated I have been, etc etc etc. When really the best thing I can do is what Hannah did. Take it to the Lord in prayer. He can change the situation, He can change the other person. He can change ME! OUCH ! Maybe that is why I think I need to handle the situation with words. I don't want to take the chance that it is ME who needs changing and not the situation or the other person. Maybe my heart is wrong about the situation. Double ouch.
Thankfully I have a Saviour who is ready and willing to forgive me if I seek Him. But first I must seek Him. And be willing to act on what He shows me. And maybe, just maybe this time, it won't be me that needs changing
Monday, April 16, 2007
Praying for my Family
Pr 31:2 What my son? and what the son of my womb? and what, the son of my vows?
Ps 66:18 If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.
I pray for my children to grow closer to God daily. I also pray for their spouses/future spouses, and our grandchildren daily.
2 Tim 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
I ask God for His insights into my children. He knows them better then I do no matter how close I am to them.
1 Sam 3:1 And the child Samuel ministered unto the Lord before Eli. And the word of the Lord was precious in those days; there was no open vision.
Lk 1:60 And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John.
Lk 3:4 As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, the voice of one crying in the wilderness, prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.
Lk 1:30 And the angel said unto her, fear not Mary; for thou hast found favour with God.
Elizabeth, Hannah, and Mary were all mom's who prayed constantly for their children. And remember how their children turned out!
Ps 66:18 If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.
I pray for my children to grow closer to God daily. I also pray for their spouses/future spouses, and our grandchildren daily.
2 Tim 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
I ask God for His insights into my children. He knows them better then I do no matter how close I am to them.
1 Sam 3:1 And the child Samuel ministered unto the Lord before Eli. And the word of the Lord was precious in those days; there was no open vision.
Lk 1:60 And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John.
Lk 3:4 As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, the voice of one crying in the wilderness, prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.
Lk 1:30 And the angel said unto her, fear not Mary; for thou hast found favour with God.
Elizabeth, Hannah, and Mary were all mom's who prayed constantly for their children. And remember how their children turned out!
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Are You Satisfied?
Mt 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness: and all these things shall be added unto you.
2 Pet 3:18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and for ever Amen.
1 Pet 2:2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.
Heb 5:12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God: and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.
:13 For every one that useth milk is unskillful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.
:14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
How do we grow in God? Buy putting Him first all the time!
Ps 63:8 My soul followeth hard after thee: thy right hand upholdeth me.
Rom 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.
Are you satisfied where you are in Christ right now? If so then you won't grow anymore. You must desire to be closer to Christ in order to grow. You decide each day whether you will spend time with the Lord or not. Now I know some will read that and say, "You have no idea what my life is like, " or "I don't have time every day to study the word." Well to that I say, no I don't but in a small way you are doing a study right now of the word. That is why I always type out the scriptures that I read. What you read here and on other blogs may be a few scriptures from God's word. What you do with that is between you and God.
If I only have time today to read the word for 5 minutes, or spend 5 minutes on here reading email or blogs, I chose the word of God. What will you choose if that is all you have today?
2 Pet 3:18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and for ever Amen.
1 Pet 2:2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.
Heb 5:12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God: and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.
:13 For every one that useth milk is unskillful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.
:14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
How do we grow in God? Buy putting Him first all the time!
Ps 63:8 My soul followeth hard after thee: thy right hand upholdeth me.
Rom 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.
Are you satisfied where you are in Christ right now? If so then you won't grow anymore. You must desire to be closer to Christ in order to grow. You decide each day whether you will spend time with the Lord or not. Now I know some will read that and say, "You have no idea what my life is like, " or "I don't have time every day to study the word." Well to that I say, no I don't but in a small way you are doing a study right now of the word. That is why I always type out the scriptures that I read. What you read here and on other blogs may be a few scriptures from God's word. What you do with that is between you and God.
If I only have time today to read the word for 5 minutes, or spend 5 minutes on here reading email or blogs, I chose the word of God. What will you choose if that is all you have today?
Friday, April 13, 2007
Pressing On
Phil 3:13 Brethren I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Lam 3:22 It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not.
:23 They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.
Ps 107:9 For He satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.
How was your day today? Good, bad, indifferent? If it is a good day, great! If not, remember the verse above. Pray, release the day and all the bad in it to God, and reach forth to a new day. His mercy is new to us each morning. And He is compassionate to us. Seek the Lord with a longing soul and He has promised to fill you with goodness!
I don't know about you, but that encourages me!
:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Lam 3:22 It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not.
:23 They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.
Ps 107:9 For He satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.
How was your day today? Good, bad, indifferent? If it is a good day, great! If not, remember the verse above. Pray, release the day and all the bad in it to God, and reach forth to a new day. His mercy is new to us each morning. And He is compassionate to us. Seek the Lord with a longing soul and He has promised to fill you with goodness!
I don't know about you, but that encourages me!
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Ever notice....
when you sit down to spend time with the Lord you get bombarded with thoughts about things you need to do "right then before you forget"?
Well I do. And today was one of those days. Now I will be the first one to admit that I suffer now from mental pause. (Ok Kaci, stop laughing :-). But my time with the Lord is important. And shouldn't be stop and start as I run take care of "those things". Cause I don't know about you but I usually have a tough time finding my way back to my study.
So instead of giving the scriptures I studied today, and how they applied to me, I will give you a helpful hint.
Keep a notepad with you (or even a scrap of paper) while you study and seek the Lord. As those thoughts come, jot them down. It just takes a second. Now you won't have to run "do that thing", or worry about forgetting about it later. And you can quickly return to the word God has for you without being concerned about anything else.
Now maybe you are someone who can just block those thoughts when you are studying. If so, please tell me how you do it, I honestly am interested. And yes, I do pray first asking the Lord to keep me focused on Him and to block those thoughts. But some days it is hard.
I will leave you with a scripture though.
2 Pet 1:3 According to His divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that called us to glory and virtue.
Have an incredible day in the Lord !
Well I do. And today was one of those days. Now I will be the first one to admit that I suffer now from mental pause. (Ok Kaci, stop laughing :-). But my time with the Lord is important. And shouldn't be stop and start as I run take care of "those things". Cause I don't know about you but I usually have a tough time finding my way back to my study.
So instead of giving the scriptures I studied today, and how they applied to me, I will give you a helpful hint.
Keep a notepad with you (or even a scrap of paper) while you study and seek the Lord. As those thoughts come, jot them down. It just takes a second. Now you won't have to run "do that thing", or worry about forgetting about it later. And you can quickly return to the word God has for you without being concerned about anything else.
Now maybe you are someone who can just block those thoughts when you are studying. If so, please tell me how you do it, I honestly am interested. And yes, I do pray first asking the Lord to keep me focused on Him and to block those thoughts. But some days it is hard.
I will leave you with a scripture though.
2 Pet 1:3 According to His divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that called us to glory and virtue.
Have an incredible day in the Lord !
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
I can paper piece!
Now this may not mean anything to non quilters but it is exciting to me. I made my first paper pieced block and it only took me 4 tries and 2 days lol.
See I adore hand applique and hand quilting. I have learned to machine applique and machine quilt. I am learning to hand piece. I have never until now tried to paper piece. I have quilted for about 15 years now, and it was always on my list of things to do, but i kept putting it off. I really dislike machine piecing that is why I have started learning to hand piece. I do like the look of hand piecing and applique together. Well here is the picture of my first paper pieced block!
Encouraging Words
Pr 12:25 Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad.
I have a friend who is very negative. I know it is because of heaviness in her heart making her weary. She has health issues, personal issues, well you understand. Anytime we are together or talk on the phone all she does is whine, complain, etc. Now you might say, "well then why do you talk to her?". My family have asked the same question over the many years I have known her (since high school lol). It is because of the first thing I said about her. She is a friend. Now don't get me wrong, it is easier to do somedays then others, and I don't speak to her every day or even every week. But it is what God has called me to do. If I can say one good word, maybe I can help her feel better that day about something in her life. And I can always listen. That is my heart's desire in the situation anyway.
LK 10:27 And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord the God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself.
The first part of the verse is easy. I already do that. But when I deal with the last part of the verse is when it gets harder. This is why I never take calls from my friend before I spend time with the Lord. Actually I try not to take calls at all before my devotion time. It prepares me to deal with whatever or whoever the Lord brings in my path that day.
Col 4:6 Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.
Is 50:4 The Lord God hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him who is weary; he wakeneth morning by morning. he waketh in ear to hear as the learned.
It is so important that I have time with the Lord so He can fill me up. My friend is weary from all she has before her. She needs encouragement and I need the Lord's help to listen.
Lord, I pray you help me to be an encourager.
I have a friend who is very negative. I know it is because of heaviness in her heart making her weary. She has health issues, personal issues, well you understand. Anytime we are together or talk on the phone all she does is whine, complain, etc. Now you might say, "well then why do you talk to her?". My family have asked the same question over the many years I have known her (since high school lol). It is because of the first thing I said about her. She is a friend. Now don't get me wrong, it is easier to do somedays then others, and I don't speak to her every day or even every week. But it is what God has called me to do. If I can say one good word, maybe I can help her feel better that day about something in her life. And I can always listen. That is my heart's desire in the situation anyway.
LK 10:27 And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord the God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself.
The first part of the verse is easy. I already do that. But when I deal with the last part of the verse is when it gets harder. This is why I never take calls from my friend before I spend time with the Lord. Actually I try not to take calls at all before my devotion time. It prepares me to deal with whatever or whoever the Lord brings in my path that day.
Col 4:6 Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.
Is 50:4 The Lord God hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him who is weary; he wakeneth morning by morning. he waketh in ear to hear as the learned.
It is so important that I have time with the Lord so He can fill me up. My friend is weary from all she has before her. She needs encouragement and I need the Lord's help to listen.
Lord, I pray you help me to be an encourager.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
The end of the fence saga
Well they showed up about 5:30 last night and fixed the fence mostly in the dark. they used the wrong size wood for the one that had to be replaced, but hubby said it was ok, and if I really hate the way it looks he will replace it himself. When they were done and knocked to see if it was ok, hubby said yes, but he really wished they would have had the boy helping. Their comment was, he would not have done a good job. Hubby said, that is the whole point. He needs to be taught to take responsiblity for his actions and learn to do it right.
Sigh, they just don't get that this wasn't about having them fix the fence, hubby would have done a much better job of it and quicker. It was about the boy learning a lesson.
The boy's name is Joey, please pray for him.
Sigh, they just don't get that this wasn't about having them fix the fence, hubby would have done a much better job of it and quicker. It was about the boy learning a lesson.
The boy's name is Joey, please pray for him.
You Don't Labor in Vain
1 Cor 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.
Ever feel like no matter what you did it wasn't enough? Or why bother doing (whatever) now, you will just have to do it again later or tomorrow? Can you tell I have been there done that? lol.
Well this verse tells me that if my work is done as to the Lord, or in the Lord, then it is not in vain. Even though I may have to do it over and over and over, well you get the idea.
This scripture applies to homemaking, our relationship with our family, friends, really anything that we do, as long as it is done for the Lord.
I don't know about you, but as I start my day today, doing all the things I did yesterday, and know I will have to most of them again tomorrow, I am encouraged.
Ever feel like no matter what you did it wasn't enough? Or why bother doing (whatever) now, you will just have to do it again later or tomorrow? Can you tell I have been there done that? lol.
Well this verse tells me that if my work is done as to the Lord, or in the Lord, then it is not in vain. Even though I may have to do it over and over and over, well you get the idea.
This scripture applies to homemaking, our relationship with our family, friends, really anything that we do, as long as it is done for the Lord.
I don't know about you, but as I start my day today, doing all the things I did yesterday, and know I will have to most of them again tomorrow, I am encouraged.
Monday, April 9, 2007
How much time?
Eph 3:19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with the fullness of God.
Titus 2:3 The aged women likewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things.
:4 That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children.
Verse 3 tells me what I as an older woman should do. But verse 4 applies to me also. I can't effectively show what I am not living.
Remember the saying, "do as I do, not as I say."? Well that doesn't apply here. I must live the life, walk the walk, if I want to show other women what God has called us to be. I must not be a hypocrite and do one thing while telling them to do another.
Pr 20:12 The hearing ear, and the seeing eye, the Lord hath made even both of them.
Is 40:31 But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength: they shall mount up with wings as eagles: they shall run, and not be weary, and they shall walk and not faint.
This is one of my all time favorite verses! A sweet online sister in the Lord blessed me with a needle case (I love to hand quilt) with this scripture on it and I use it every time I hand sew and think about her and pray for her.
The time I spend reading and studying God's word is time I spend waiting on the Lord.
Once I have spent time with the Lord He renews my strength. Then I can face my day and fly through the things I need to do without being weary.
Moses waited on the Lord 40 years while God prepared him.
Joseph served Potiphar 10 years and then another 2-3 years while God prepared him.
John the Baptist spent 30 years while God prepared him.
Paul spent 3 years in the desert after His conversion being prepared by the Lord.
Jesus prepared for 30 years for His 3 years of active ministry.
How much of my time am I willing to give to God so He can prepare me to serve Him, my family, and anyone else He brings into my life? How much time are YOU willing to give Him to prepare you?
Titus 2:3 The aged women likewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things.
:4 That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children.
Verse 3 tells me what I as an older woman should do. But verse 4 applies to me also. I can't effectively show what I am not living.
Remember the saying, "do as I do, not as I say."? Well that doesn't apply here. I must live the life, walk the walk, if I want to show other women what God has called us to be. I must not be a hypocrite and do one thing while telling them to do another.
Pr 20:12 The hearing ear, and the seeing eye, the Lord hath made even both of them.
Is 40:31 But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength: they shall mount up with wings as eagles: they shall run, and not be weary, and they shall walk and not faint.
This is one of my all time favorite verses! A sweet online sister in the Lord blessed me with a needle case (I love to hand quilt) with this scripture on it and I use it every time I hand sew and think about her and pray for her.
The time I spend reading and studying God's word is time I spend waiting on the Lord.
Once I have spent time with the Lord He renews my strength. Then I can face my day and fly through the things I need to do without being weary.
Moses waited on the Lord 40 years while God prepared him.
Joseph served Potiphar 10 years and then another 2-3 years while God prepared him.
John the Baptist spent 30 years while God prepared him.
Paul spent 3 years in the desert after His conversion being prepared by the Lord.
Jesus prepared for 30 years for His 3 years of active ministry.
How much of my time am I willing to give to God so He can prepare me to serve Him, my family, and anyone else He brings into my life? How much time are YOU willing to give Him to prepare you?
Sunday, April 8, 2007
Nerf Wars
Well for years around here the girls outnumbered the boys, but not so any more. Today daughter and I were severely outnumbered.
The grandsons were here and they got nerf shooters for Easter. Our son, son-in-law, and two grandsons had a nerf war in the backyard, which of course at times carried into the house lol.
Ah, the joys of a testosterone filled home lol.
Gone are the quiet girly times. There was plenty of laughter of course. And a good time was had by all.
The grandsons were here and they got nerf shooters for Easter. Our son, son-in-law, and two grandsons had a nerf war in the backyard, which of course at times carried into the house lol.
Ah, the joys of a testosterone filled home lol.
Gone are the quiet girly times. There was plenty of laughter of course. And a good time was had by all.
Saturday, April 7, 2007
It is soooo cold here!
It is 44 here now and feels like 39! that is just to cold for south louisiana this time of year! We are having sleet! ugh that is gonna make it interesting to bbq tomorrow lol.
Now I know you northern people are saying "what a wimp!" LOL. But that is why I live here. While I think I love snow, I think I love the concept of snow in truth. And probably cause we don't get much snow here, and only about once every 10 years.
oh well enough of my pity party, it is time for son to go to work.
have a lovely blessed easter !
Now I know you northern people are saying "what a wimp!" LOL. But that is why I live here. While I think I love snow, I think I love the concept of snow in truth. And probably cause we don't get much snow here, and only about once every 10 years.
oh well enough of my pity party, it is time for son to go to work.
have a lovely blessed easter !
Friday, April 6, 2007
Being a Homemaker
Titus 2:4 That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,
:5 to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands that the word of God be not blasphemed.
I know some have struggled with being called a homemaker. I did too at one time. Then I came across (again :-) these verses and realized just how high a calling it is to be a homemaker.
For a lot of years I worked out of our home as an accountant. I am in awe of the ones who do that now and still manage to maintain their homes and family. I remember those days long ago (I stopped working outside our home 16 years ago). How difficult they were. How tired I was. Alot of my struggle was because God was calling me to stay home and I DID NOT want to be just a homemaker. How I laugh at those words now. I work harder now then I ever did when I was an accountant. I liked being out in the workplace. And now? I love being home full time and taking care of home and family. It is a joy even though there are still things I don't like doing around here lol.
God really changed my heart!
There was a time when if I could find a reason to leave my house, I would find it and out I went. Now my children will tell you that I leave only with good reason lol. And even then if one of them is willing (or hubby) to run my errands, I let them lol. I will leave if I have a reason, lunch with hubby, daughter or friend, yarn shopping, quilt shopping, or like today grocery shopping. The girls jokingly tell hubby to be sure and check my drivers license after my birthday this year cause it is due for renewal. See what I dislike the most about leaving is the driving lol.
There are still things the Lord is working out in me. But at least I know that whatever He is calling me to do or change is for my own good, cause He loves me and only wants the best for me.
:5 to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands that the word of God be not blasphemed.
I know some have struggled with being called a homemaker. I did too at one time. Then I came across (again :-) these verses and realized just how high a calling it is to be a homemaker.
For a lot of years I worked out of our home as an accountant. I am in awe of the ones who do that now and still manage to maintain their homes and family. I remember those days long ago (I stopped working outside our home 16 years ago). How difficult they were. How tired I was. Alot of my struggle was because God was calling me to stay home and I DID NOT want to be just a homemaker. How I laugh at those words now. I work harder now then I ever did when I was an accountant
God really changed my heart!
There was a time when if I could find a reason to leave my house, I would find it and out I went. Now my children will tell you that I leave only with good reason lol. And even then if one of them is willing (or hubby) to run my errands, I let them lol. I will leave if I have a reason, lunch with hubby, daughter or friend, yarn shopping, quilt shopping, or like today grocery shopping. The girls jokingly tell hubby to be sure and check my drivers license after my birthday this year cause it is due for renewal. See what I dislike the most about leaving is the driving lol.
There are still things the Lord is working out in me. But at least I know that whatever He is calling me to do or change is for my own good, cause He loves me and only wants the best for me.
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Order Or Chaos
I make notes and write down verses as I do a devotion every day. For the past few months I have been studying the role God has for the woman.
Here are my ramblings from today.
1 tim 5:14 I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adverary to speak reproachfully.
The verse just before this shows why Timothy felt the need to write this one.
1 tim 5:13 And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.
This means to me that if I am busy managing my home I won't have time to do all these things. If I stop and think about it the same is true for us as for our children. Left with to much time on their hands, they will find trouble. Just like the teenage boy did yesterday with my fence. He wasn't being supervised, though at 15 he is old enough to know what he did was wrong.
God calls me daily to manage what He has provided for my family.
First off I must realize that God isn't asking me to "feel like" or even to like bing the home manager. But He is calling me to do it.
I must take home management seriously. If I don't take my job at home seriously, I won't take other things seriously that God would have me do. OUCH.
LK 16:10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.
As I try to live faithfully to what God has called me to do at home, I am developing the faithfulness I need to follow through on anything else He gives me to do.
1 Cor 4:2 Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.
God has called me to be a steward in my home.
I must teach my children to be faithful to the responsibities they are given also. If they aren't given responsibilities I am failing them in the training I am supposed to be giving them. It is easier especially with younger children to just do it ourselves. But as they do something a few times they will master it, and be more helpful and ready to learn to do more. It is teaching them to be faithful also.
I must act as though God will hold me accountable for my words and actions, but also for the use of my time, because He will!
Some tips for better managing time:
1. Pray and ask the Lord to direct your heart and hands today.
2. Plan - make a list of what needs to be done. If the Lord brings something unexpected into your day, and you know it is of Him, great. If not mark things off as you do them. It will encourage you to keep going. And you will be surprised at how much you get done!
3. Be concerned with today. That is all God asks of us.
Mt 6:34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficent unto the day is the evil thereof.
Ps 118:24 This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
This was my mom's favorite verse!
4. Time yourself if you are doing something you dislike doing. Give those things 15 minutes of solid work. Set a timer! You will be amazed at how many things we dread doing take less then 15 minutes if we apply ourselves. And if it isn't finished in 15 minutes? well then decide to work on it longer, leave it till later for another 15 minutes, or till tomorrow. You are still 15 minutes closer to having it finished then when you started !
Have you heard the question: How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time!
5. Do the thing you are dreading on the list first. You will feel so good about having it done it will motivate you to do more. And you won't have to dread it all day and face it when you are tired.
6. Spend 5 minutes at night getting ready for the next day. Do you need to leave tomorrow? Put clothes out tonight. Start your list of things to do tomorrow. Plan you meal for tomorrow and defrost anything you will need.
Here are my ramblings from today.
1 tim 5:14 I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adverary to speak reproachfully.
The verse just before this shows why Timothy felt the need to write this one.
1 tim 5:13 And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.
This means to me that if I am busy managing my home I won't have time to do all these things. If I stop and think about it the same is true for us as for our children. Left with to much time on their hands, they will find trouble. Just like the teenage boy did yesterday with my fence. He wasn't being supervised, though at 15 he is old enough to know what he did was wrong.
God calls me daily to manage what He has provided for my family.
First off I must realize that God isn't asking me to "feel like" or even to like bing the home manager. But He is calling me to do it.
I must take home management seriously. If I don't take my job at home seriously, I won't take other things seriously that God would have me do. OUCH.
LK 16:10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.
As I try to live faithfully to what God has called me to do at home, I am developing the faithfulness I need to follow through on anything else He gives me to do.
1 Cor 4:2 Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.
God has called me to be a steward in my home.
I must teach my children to be faithful to the responsibities they are given also. If they aren't given responsibilities I am failing them in the training I am supposed to be giving them. It is easier especially with younger children to just do it ourselves. But as they do something a few times they will master it, and be more helpful and ready to learn to do more. It is teaching them to be faithful also.
I must act as though God will hold me accountable for my words and actions, but also for the use of my time, because He will!
Some tips for better managing time:
1. Pray and ask the Lord to direct your heart and hands today.
2. Plan - make a list of what needs to be done. If the Lord brings something unexpected into your day, and you know it is of Him, great. If not mark things off as you do them. It will encourage you to keep going. And you will be surprised at how much you get done!
3. Be concerned with today. That is all God asks of us.
Mt 6:34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficent unto the day is the evil thereof.
Ps 118:24 This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
This was my mom's favorite verse!
4. Time yourself if you are doing something you dislike doing. Give those things 15 minutes of solid work. Set a timer! You will be amazed at how many things we dread doing take less then 15 minutes if we apply ourselves. And if it isn't finished in 15 minutes? well then decide to work on it longer, leave it till later for another 15 minutes, or till tomorrow. You are still 15 minutes closer to having it finished then when you started !
Have you heard the question: How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time!
5. Do the thing you are dreading on the list first. You will feel so good about having it done it will motivate you to do more. And you won't have to dread it all day and face it when you are tired.
6. Spend 5 minutes at night getting ready for the next day. Do you need to leave tomorrow? Put clothes out tonight. Start your list of things to do tomorrow. Plan you meal for tomorrow and defrost anything you will need.
I hope I can handle this the way Christ would have me handle the situation. But it ain't gonna me easy
Here is a little history on why. I waited patiently (well I tried really hard to be patient) for 6 years for this fence. Finally we had the money (and hubby agreed to do it lol) and we spent 2 weekends painting it and putting it up. Last summer the city did some work in the neighbors back yard and wrecked the side of the fence. It took them two tries to repair it correctly.
Then yesterday afternoon late I hear a "crash" sound. ugh. I look out the front window and see a teenage boy behind my van. I am thinking he must have fallen off a bike behind my van. So I go out to see if he is ok. He is starting a go cart and taking off to the theater parking lot across the road from us about 3 houses down. Neighbor is in front yard next door and says, look at the fence as I am headed to the van. This is what greets me :-(. Hubby comes out and tells me to call the police. Well hubby stops the boy when he is coming through the field across from us and tells him to wait for police. Kid restarts go cart and takes off. Hubby goes in hot pursuit. When the boy stops and trys to hide the go cart behind a house hubby figures that is where the boy lives and comes home to wait for the police. Of course that wasn't his house. To make a really long story shorter, the police finally get the boy who lives there to tell them where the other one lives and go there. Grandmother is there staying with him for a few days while mom is out of town. Grandmother said someone would be here this weekend to fix the fence. Officer said if not they will arrest the boy for criminal damage to property since he fled. I pray they fix the fence. The grandmother said she has no control over the boy.
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
My first ever blog entry!
hmmm well i posted one i thought but now i can't find it. so here it is again lol.
I decided since this was the first time ever i do this that i would make it simple.
This photo is of my son's quilt that i just finished making about a month ago.
He was given the quilt for Christmas. The story behind the quilt is this: About 6 years ago I wanted to buy an embroidery machine. Since I have a basic sewing machine, when we found one in our price range (under 1000 dollars) we decided that even though all it did was embroidery that would be ok. Right before we bought it, a friend's husband called. He knew we were looking for one and he had found one on ebay like his wife owned, that not only embroideried but was a really nice computerized sewing machine with many built in stitches. We had never looked on ebay before (but we do now lol). Anyway we checked it out, and several others that didn't do as much as this one. We decided to bid on it and if we didn't get it, we could still buy the other one we had found. The opening bid was $566 and we opened with that. For the next few hours we anxiously watched the bidding on this machine and the others that were similiar. Finally the bidding was over! We had won the bid! God hid this machine from everyone and we got it for the $566 we bid plus shipping! All of the other machines went for over $1000, which was more then we could spend! God is so good! He truly does care about us in every way!
The embroidery card that I used on son's quilt was an "extra" that the lady I bought the machine from sent me. Along with alot of "extras" that were worth more then $100. I was so blessed! When my son saw the card he asked for a quilt with those on it but since he had just gotten a quilt , it took awhile for me to make this one for him.
He was so surprised to see the blocks on Christmas eve as I only worked on them while he was at work. He now has it on his bed!
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