Sunday, October 31, 2010

Home sick again. I do not like missing church or hanging with the kids but it is not good to be around them if I am sick. Such as life. Well today is Halloween. Not exactly what it used to be when we were young. Full size candy bars, trick or treating until 9:00 at night! Pillow cases for bags because we would get so much candy. Now?? I have been in my home for 5 years and never one child trick or treating. A lot of things are different than when I was growing up. My mom was a stay at home Mom, always there waiting for me after school. Some moms work 2 jobs to make ends meet. But Halloween was innocent. Many believers do not like Halloween nor acknowledge it. I think if I was a parent I would allow my kids to trick or treat and know it is nothing more than a fun day to play dress up and get candy. I mean can't we let our kids be little kids? We do not need to add in to the day like it is goblins, demons and ghosts. It is a dress up day for kids. I don't know, that is just me. But they would know it is not a "holiday" nor a day for a celebration. I guess it is just one of many many debates we all can get into. But I choose to keep my rose colored glasses on and remember the days of my brother, sister and I dumping pillow case after pillow case in the living room and going back out trip after trip with my mom right there driving us. Catalina Hills and all through Magnolia. Fabulous! Then we would come home and make piles of the duplicate candy and just see the stacks and stacks. Maybe do some trading and maybe some sampling with a tall glass of milk. I know those days are long gone but it is nice to have those innocent memories. For now, it is the end of yet another month in 2010. Time is flying. We had a blessed and prosperous weekend with lots of plans this week coming up. God is great and continues to enrich our lives each and every day. For now I am going to rest and get ready for the new month ahead. Have a blessed Sunday and be safe all you kiddies out there. And a special shout out to all my 3 year olds in the 9am class. XOXO

Psalm 134

Saturday, October 30, 2010

Life is funny. Life is hard. Life takes many twists and turns. Life is ....... everyone has their own sentence they can complete. What is yours? Mine would say that life is forever changing. That accurately describes it for me because my life is not my own. I surrendered it all to Him. So for me, I wake up and I thank God always for the day and I give it to Him. I always ask that whoever I should come across in my path, may it be of Him and may I say what He would say if He was here. Pastor Bruce taught me to do that over 10+ years. I simply give the day to God. People are part of this world and we will cross paths with someone each and everyday. We must be armed and prepared each and everyday. I remember when I worked in the office I would lay my hand on the garage door before entering the building and I would ask the holy spirit to come to the office with me and help me with each person and circumstance each and everyday. I believe it helped me get through many of days. For we worked with scores of people and you could find yourself very easily caught up in some scuffle or two if you allowed it. God really helped me in my outside work field and He continues to help me now as I work from home. I do many different things and He is there with me in each and every one. I believe when I am cooking even for someone, He is there with me keeping me calm and focused. To cook a big meal or large quantities for someone takes organization and focus and time management. So before I begin, I ask the Lord to be my sous chef for the day and work with me and beside me. When I sell, I ask the Lord to draw people to me and grant me enormous favor so I am the person they buy from. Needless to say, He has done all those for me so I am here to say that yes, life is hard and life is scary. But trust God today with it. If you are leery, trust God with your day toDAY. Give it to Him. Allow Him to walk with you, near you, in front of you. As for me? I am about to enter my day and I ask the Lord to be with me through each second, minute and hour. Have a great Saturday!

Friday, October 29, 2010

I read in proverbs that a good man has favor from God. That is so awesome. Favor is such a blessing from God. Favor can come in all ways. I thank God for his favor with a good parking spot. My one sister commented one time that every time we are together I get a good spot. It was also a little testimony for God. So He uses all situations. That is how neat He is and also how involved He is. He is with us in all situations and that is comfort to me. He wants be a part of our daily lives and work. Keep Him in the center of it all and you will succeed. I remember when I first started dating my husband he was reading a small book that changed his life and it was titled, "The Prayer of Jabez". It comes from the bible, book 1 Chronicles 4:10. The prayer is composed of four parts. First, Jabez asks God to bless him. Second, he asks God to enlarge his territory or increase his responsibility. Third he prays that God will be with him and stay close. Lastly he asks God to keep him from harm so he will be free from pain. Jabez knew what many did not. And today the same holds true. So if I can help anyone in a small way share the truth just as Jabez did and save someone from a life of wrong choices and failures, than I will do all that I can to do just that.

"And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that Thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that Thine hand might be with me, and that Thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me. And God granted him that which he requested."

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Sometimes the normal day to day routine can turn into one of God's divine appointments. I continue to list items for sale through different avenues and I received an inquiry on one yesterday morning. I was asking one amount and he told me he was $5 shy and would borrow the rest because he really needed the item. I declined the lower offer and continued about my business. Well when God is involved, going about your daily business is not an option when you are not doing His will. I immediately felt led to email the man back and accept the lower offer. In the email I explained that my husband and I are selling these things for other people to be blessed and as long as he was being honest about being short on the cash, we would love him to have the item. The lesser amount means nothing to either C or I. We always pray that the right person receives the item. Within minutes he wrote back and told me he was an honest person and did not lie and was trying to get back in church and he just lost his twin sister and was hoping it wasn't too late for him. Well I wrote and told him believers lived in our house and we believe that our Lord is a forgiving God and asked what church he went to. He answered quickly so I told him to come over. I quietly prayed to myself that if he was real to send C home from his errands so he could be here to pray with him. Well as I worked away in my office I see the black little hummer pull up and I knew in my heart something "divine" was going to happen. The man came shortly after and before you knew it we were all talking and ministering and C was able to talk with him and we prayed all together. My friend was also here visiting and I was happy she was witnessing God's power in action as well. She gave him her church name and directions because he actually lives down the shore area. Needless to say, the day was not about selling something. It was about meeting someone hurting and alittle scared and confused and helping him to know that God is with him no matter what and will look over him and comfort Him as He seeks His truth. So shout out to Chris. God bless you and keep you and keep in touch. God loves you and so do we. Have a blessed day!

God is not interested in our ability but our availability. Are you willing to be used by God to advance His kingdom?- unknown

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Another rainy day but warm out. Indian summer for sure. I missed my chance to plant mums but before you know it, it will be holiday decorating time. I will say our home looks like a winter wonderland at Christmas. It will be a very special holiday season for us for many reasons. Things are still changing and our family dynamic is not ideal right now but God is the ultimate peacemaker and He can restore and repair anything so it is left in His hands. I have learned to be true to myself and honest with others and if someone is unable to receive my honesty, than it is always best to take a step back. But God is great and he is in control in the best of situations and even in the not so great times. I just lift up all families who are experiencing trials and tribulations and I lift up all families who are unable to be together this upcoming season for any number of reasons or circumstances. The best advice is to embrace whatever stage or phase you are in. No matter what our own situations are. I believe that nothing is impossible with God and I surrender it all to Him today.

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

I found the only pitfall to playing with kids on Sunday! THEIR GERMS! I cannot believe I have my 2nd cold in as little as 30 days. Geez. These are days when God wants us to just rest. Rest our bodies, minds and souls. It is actually good for us when we are forced to stop. We all are on overload. Especially moms, whether you are a working out of the home or in the home. So my hats off to you all. But it is best to give yourself a "time out" when need be. I feel like life is moving fast and so many opportunites are coming to us and I am forever grateful for everyone who has been praying for us and with us. C has met some very nice men in the ministries he has joined and classes and I see how all the pastors just adore him. He is the lovebug after all. And whether you are the pastor or not, a hug from C is inevitable. So we are following God's plan for us and He is moving us into our future and God is in total control. I am excited to see what He has in store for us. I am not afraid. Friends write and call and are worried but I tell them, it is all good and God is great and His will is being done in our lives, today and always. As I read, the sphere of our finances is a great area of life to exercise our gift of faith, making it stronger and more useful to ourselves and those around us. I think it is exciting to see God's movement and I know we are living the life God wants for us and He is pleased with our obedience and His blessings are bestowing upon us. So please in all things, pray. Be anxious for nothing, just pray!

Jeremiah 29: 10-14

Monday,October 25, 2010

Quick shout out that my fur boys are 7 months old today. They are so cute!! Well remember I made a promise I would learn a new verse a week? Well in my weekly women's ministry they have instructed us to learn and memorize 1 Corinthians 13:1-8a. I decided I would take the challenge and do it. So this morning with my husband's coaching, I began. I first recited it word for word. Then stopped to research whatever I did not understand. Then I meditated on its meaning so I could apply it to life so I could understand it. It then flowed and became easier for me. So this morning, I learned and memorized verses 1 through 3. It does take time and I am not going to over do it. A girl recited it all 2 weeks ago and I was so impressed by that. It is a beautiful chapter and part of many wedding vows. All about love and without it, we are nothing. That does not mean without the love of a man or woman, we are nothing. No!!!!!! We are complete with God whether we are married OR single!!!!!!!!!! Don't get me started on that whole subject. God would want us all to have someone to love and share our lives with but it is not every single person's destiny. I don't know why but it just isn't. It saddens me to see young women and even grown women think they are less or not complete because they are not in love with someone. God speaks of love in everything. WE all love someone. It could be your dog or cat. The scripture recites that we could have faith to move a mountain but without love, we are nothing. We could have the gifts of tongues, but without love, it is just noise. We could have given all of our possessions to the poor, but without love, we gain nothing. Love is a gift from God and a commandment from God. Love you neighbor, love your enemy! Just simply..........love. Amen.

1 Corinthians 13: 1-3

1. If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.

2. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have faith that can move mountains but have not love, I am nothing.

3. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.

Sunday, October 24, 2010

Philippians 4:13 says, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Amen to that. We all should be reminded of it when we feel weak or even down right defeated. When you keep your focus on God, He will remind you of this. It is so vital for me to know my scriptures and to meditate on their meaning. It is too often people are biblically scholared but don't act on what they know or memorize. I rather know 1 scripture and its meaning and live it than know the whole chapter and possess none of it because of my ignorance. That is why I repel "showey" believers that quote the scriptures in their fancy prayers and yet their hearts are not pure. I am not impressed by it. I used to be and even the pastor speaks of those individuals whose prayers are long because the person thinks they have to be in order to be effective. I too believe the simplest words of the simplest prayer can be and mean so much more. The scriptures are God's words to us...gifts to us...instructions to us....He wants to help us in all our situations and in all our trials so when we are armed with His word, it really does strengthen us. So no matter how little we know, or how much we know from the bible itself, meditate on it and live by it. We should all try to learn a verse a week. Meditate and research its meaning so we can have a true understanding of it. That way if we understand it, we can apply it in our daily life. We will feel strong and armed just like He promises. I think that is so cool! I am going to do it, won't you?

Philippians 4:13

Saturday, October 23, 2010

Wow today represents 9 years C and I have been together. 9 years ago today we went on our first date. And as they say, the rest is history. Through all of our trials, tribulations, peaks and valleys, we stood together. We always knew that God did not make mistakes and that He brought us together therefore whatever mess we would make, He would overcome it and restore and repair. And thank you Lord for your faithfulness because He has restored, renewed and revived. So we celebrate today for it was the beginning of a whole new life and journey for us. I truly am grateful for C because he really is my best friend. For he has been loyal through it all and faithful through it all. We laugh and laugh and truly enjoy each other's company AND that is a pretty darn good thing. So hug your best friend today, hug your spouse today, hug your child today, hug your pets today, hug your mother and father today, hug your sister today, hug your brother today BUT most of all hug your Lord today! Have a great Saturday and GO PHILLIES!!! Happy bday to my big sis, Denise. XO

1 Corinthians 13: 4-7

Friday, October 22, 2010

FAITH is not believing that God can.

It is knowing that HE WILL.

Today Christian and I remember his sainted Mother, Roseann and our dear friend, Carole Vanore. May they continue to be our guardian angels in heaven. Thank you Lord for eternal life.

Thursday, October 21, 2010

The Lord will provide. He will provide all of our needs. I trust Him to do that for my husband and I. Our lives are completely in His hands and He has all control. It is very liberating for me for I used to write out our budget and spread out the bills and fill in each week what gets paid and who gets what. Now? I no longer carry my check book register in my wallet. I now keep it upstairs in the office under a small reminder sign that says, "Trust in God and in all ways acknowledge Him and He will direct thy paths". The rest I leave to God. And He has provided everything we have needed up until this very moment. We are faithful tithers and we sow into heaven each and every penny that comes in to this household. Nothing is taken for granted and nothing is received without praise. For we know all blessings are coming from God and we are forever grateful. C and I know the power of tithing. It is impossible not to. One night C gave a church the last $5 we had and by the next morning, it was multiplied. That is God. The more you sow, the more you reap. I believe that to be true with our time as well. When we serve in areas, attend services, attend bible studies and study the word at home....they are all seeds being sown into the kingdom and nothing will be void. When we witness to someone or share with someone the love of Jesus, we know the seed is planted and it will grow. So trust God today for the very thing you don't think you can handle, because He can. Trust God for that very bill you have no idea how will be paid, because He does. He knows all and will do all. Just let go, let God and believe. We plant seeds in our garden and we water them and tend to them and what happens? A harvest of what you have sown, grows. So just like the garden, our seeds will also grow into a harvest. You just have to plant them and believe!

Proverbs 3: 5-6

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. Trusting God completely and wholeheartedly. Through the stillness, through the valley, always. I talk to people that say what is the point in praying when God has His own will and He is going to do whatever it is He is going to do so why bother? My answer simply is this, "Prayer is an act of faith and you must demonstrate that before your Lord". It is the foundation. I know it can be frustrating when you feel your prayers are never answered. I told you the story of the time I prayed and prayed for a work situation and nothing until one day God revealed to me I was praying wrong. I was telling him, not asking. When I changed my prayer, He answered me in exactly 2 weeks time. And I had been praying for 4 months prior. Here, I was the problem, not God. You know we can get in our own way sometimes of our blessings and again we blame God. "Well where is He, this God of yours??" My answer simply is this, "He is right in front of you, next to you, behind you. He has never left you nor forsaked you." Just trust Him. He knows what is best. His timing is always perfect. He will never be late. He knows your cries, hurts, desires. He doesn't need you to pray to learn those. He lwants you to pray because He loves you and it pleases Him when you come to Him. He wants to be a part of your daily life. It really is that simple. Not all this stuff you read and see and how some people act. Just admit Jesus died for your sins, commit your life and ways to Him and in all things, pray and your life will be transformed. Now do understand that when we ask God into our lives, our hearts and mindsets must change. I had to be the one to share God's message with someone I love and was commanded to do such. My message was, "God wants to bless you immensely, but you need to change from your selfish ways. You need to change your heart and your mind first." I don't know if that person ever received the message and changed for they did not acknowledge it to me and ignored me. But I know I obeyed what God asked me to do and I shared His message. So that person may be thinking or saying, "God never answers my prayers" and yet look how God came directly to them with a personal message? I equate it to a person shaking your shoulders to get you to listen or concentrate. And what did the person do? Ignore God. So we must always first self exam our own lives and hearts when we feel or think nothing is changing, no blessings are coming. For the very thing standing in God's way very well be us.

Proverbs 3:5

Now I will tell you that I never know what is going to be written until I sit down. I ask the Lord to speak through me, through this avenue and this is what He wants you to know so whoever you are, listen! For this very message is from God to you!

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Draw close to God. It is what I am learning to do this whole process of time. When I feel overwhelmed with my circumstances or just the day itself, I just try to be still with God and search His face and presence and shut the outside world out. I will tell you my house is more than my home, it is my haven. My true safe place from the world. I describe it as God's arms wrapped around me. That is how safe and calm and serene I feel when I am in my home. There are days when I just don't want what the outside has to offer. I still feel like I am rehabilitating myself from the last 20+ years of working and people and all of it and I need to be quiet and still. My husband said he can see progress but that I still have a way to go. I am in God's sight and as long as I stay there and focus on Him as I learn my purpose than it is where I will be. For however long it takes. I find myself withdrawing from people that don't bring me calmness, stillness and joy. If my mind or heart tells me no, than it is no. It really is good for all of us to self exam ourselves and reassess our lives and see where we are. We take our cars in for check ups and repairs and yet we can go years before we stop and check on ourselves? Are we not worth more to ourselves than our hunks of metal? Take the time for you. Assess your life, career, finances, personal business, health....but most of all check in on your walk of faith. So often the last check on our list. But it is important to do it. Make sure God is first and all other things will fall into place...and try to do it today....Happy rainy Tuesday!

Psalm 62:6

Monday, October 18, 2010

Well today is a significant day for it is one year today my special kitty, Pumpkin, passed away. I am grateful he passed in his home on the sofa with a pillow and blanket. He is buried in his own backyard and we can see him everyday. The most amazing thing is my Mom gave the grave 3 baby pumpkins last year and through the seeds a year later, a baby pumpkin has grown on his grave. Unbelievable and so amazing. I saw Romy this morning curled up in Pump's very corner spot by the sliding glass door and Toby sitting right next to him. God blessed me with the most perfect cat in Pump and I never dreamt I could be blessed again this time with 2. The little guys are full of love and life and soooooooo affectionate. I had one on my lap last night with the other on my right side all curled up while we watched the Phils spank the Giants. When I think about some of my simplest heart's desires, I am grateful. To know Pumpy died exactly how and where I wanted him to and in God's natural way, with C by his side is priceless to me. To have been doubly blessed again and to see my favorite team in the whole world play in the post season for the 4th time in a row.....God grants your heart's desires. The sweetest and simplest is enough for me sometimes. Blessings come in all ways. I acknowledge my God for the big and the small. I love my God for all He does and does not do for me. I love my God for being so true to His word and always being there for me no matter what. I love my God.

Psalm 37: 4,5

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Wow 100 posts!!!! Who ever knew that my personal little "diary" that my niece suggested I start would ever be what it is today?? God is amazing and will use "anything". Well this am's message on Charles Stanley was so dead on that I wanted to share a sentence and concentrate on one word.....Obedience always brings blessings. The key word is not sometimes, could or might but always. I see how Christian obeyed God with one request God asked of Him back in February and C did it reluctantly but acted on it nonetheless. I distinctively remember God whispering to me, "It's time" when I made my choice for my future back in the summer. And we both can testify that God has blessed us. Blessings are peace, joy, contentment and eternal. They are not always in the form of money or materials or "visible". People may miss a blessing because they do not realize that the sense of peace, joy and contentment are all blessings from God for obeying Him. I like that. I can relate and I definitely agree and it doesn't always come in the obvious way but we can rest assure that when we do right and obey, God will listen and bless. Amen!

Deuteronomy 30: 1-10

Saturday, October 16, 2010

I want to dedicate today to my beloved husband, Christian. This man has been transformed before my eyes with all glory and honor going to the Lord. He is a true man of God. He is taking this privileged time and serving the Lord each and every day with it. He is up at 5am every morning, rain or shine and on his knees in the chapel by 6am. Even PB gave a shout out to him because he is there every single day. He returns there every single night from 6pm-7pm and meditates, prays with one another, gives and listens to testimonies. I have attended with him and it is a very intimate and private and annointed place. It is so quiet you can hear a pin drop. Then a pastor gets up and sits humbly in a folding chair and gives his perspective on the country and what is on his heart and how he wants the hour to go. They break you up into 3's and quietly the 3 pray for each other and together. Power is in prayer and when 2 or more gather together....very very powerful! He comes home so at peace and I see the love he has for the church, staff and most of all God. He began a 4 month, 3 hour course on Evangelism Explosion. He has committed himself to a small little prayer meeting/bible study at a local church as well. And let's not forget he is a human monkey gym for the 4 year olds that are blessed to have him as a teacher's helper on Sundays. I see him in our worship group time and they stare at him and hang all over him because he is filled with love and joy and they gravitate to him. Pastor John always comments how C has more fun in the kids' worship time than they do...haha. If that isn't enough he attends both morning and night time church services. And where is he today? In Camden helping a church group landscape, paint and garden a university all day. So for anyone that knows C, you can't help but give notice and pay attention. For the power of God can transform anyone or any situation and turn it into His glory. Thank you Lord for your faithfulness and mercy!

1 Chronicles 28:9

Friday, October 15, 2010

Today is a very special day for it is my Daddy's birthday. I am sure he is celebrating in heaven today for he is 91 today! And I know I have a special angel today and always. Today I will be with my Mom and we will celebrate together at lunch and it will be a peaceful and blessed day. I really have to give a shout out to God for helping me with so many little things yesterday. May seem trivial but I was so in awe because God's presence was right next to me. Day started with a favorable business phone call. Then I was troubled by the fact that our brand new tv's picture was fuzzy and it was bothering me so much. I played with every button and tried everything. God showed me exactly what to do and the connection was switched from tv to some adtv?? and the tv immediately became crisp and clear. I was troubled by something I had to ship and did not have a box long enough and God simply told me to unattach the handle and ship it in 2 parts and everything fit beautifully. I needed to fax something to the bank and could not find it and I was so frustrated and upset and God guided me to the drawer it was in, the folder it was in and perfectly on top of exactly what I needed was a little printed out prayer that I liked because at the end of it was God and it said, "Keep trusting me little one." I knew He was with me. All day as I worked, He was with me helping me. I just went to bed last night so grateful and appreciative. And I realized there in the stillness of the night that if He is so interested in the little trivial things of my life, can you imagine how involved He is in the big? So I fell asleep smiling and surrounded by love. Thank you Jesus! And Dad......Happy Birthday!

Psalm 16:8

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Going to be a cold and rainy day. I look at my little kittens and I am so grateful they are in a warm and safe environment. My little guys. It reminds me how important it is to pray. Pray for your family, yourself, one another and yes even your enemies. There is power in prayer and there is no greater force you want behind you for the difficult task ahead of you. Some people just don't pray or they do when they need something. The scene in, "Eat,Pray, Love" where she awkwardly prays on her knees for the 1st time, was funny but very sad. I like to say my prayers when I am in bed for the night and it is nice to fall asleep that way. Very peaceful and spiritual. God knows your heart so just talk to Him. He wants to be a part of your life always, not just sometimes. It is so sad that because I am one with God and my life is in order that people think I am now a "holy roller". It is so silly. Anyone that loves me should be happy for me for my previous life was not a happy one. I was not happy, not at home, and certainly not at work. I needed a major shake up and when this all happened, I wasn't shocked. For God and I have been talking about all this for a long time and I needed to get right in my head and heart with Him and then all things worked together for good according to His purpose. He has blessed me immensely and has kindly answered so many of my prayers. I see my marriage completely restored and my husband transformed before my eyes. He is the man he always wanted to be and that makes me so happy for I see the peace in his eyes and in his heart. This whole journey has changed us completely and we are better people for it so prayer works. Whether it is intercessory prayer or direct prayer. Just try it. Make a promise to yourself that you will talk to God everyday and begin a prayer time even if it is 5 minutes. You will be blessed and you will be forever changed.

Philippians 4: 6-7

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

It is good to stay busy. I feel most productive when I am active and working towards a goal. God as given me this time off and yet I feel busier now than when I worked full time outside of the house. But now I feel fulfilled and I am doing what I love most....cooking and working from home selling. It has been a multitude of blessings and I feel very content. That may be an over stated sentence used by others but not me. To feel completely fulfilled for the first time in my life is a huge blessing. The Lord is the center of it all. He is my #1 focus and when I made the decision to do that, He placed everything in its proper order, according to Him. So with that how could I be surprised He is rearranging my life? He is removing people that no longer bring me joy or substance. I want to surround myself with people that uplift me, encourage me and love me no matter what. Not people that judge me, ignore me when I am not saying or doing what they want me to do and I am so over the competitive ones. I am entering a whole new life and venture and I am praying for great and mighty things and I want to be around people that are happy for me, not jealous or hateful towards me. That is very sad to me but it is my new reality. I no longer am going to compromise myself for anyone. God is not compromise. He is the light not the dark. You can not stand somewhere in the middle and play two sides to the middle. You are with Him or you are not. You cannot believe in Him and do nothing with that. I choose to live my life for Him and spreading His word whether it be here or in my new business. I will no longer compromise Him for someone else. This is my pledge to my Father in Heaven!

1 Corinthians 15:58

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

The devil uses regret in your past and fear for your future. Have you ever heard of the word condemnation? It means self guilt. There is no condemnation in salvation or in your walk with Christ. When you ask for forgiveness, it is done. Anything that is holding you in the past is you. God has said it is done. Self guilt is one of the hardest things people have to let go. It makes you feel you are not worthy or that you wasted so much of your time. It makes you have regrets and that is not of God. I say whenever you are saved, is better late than never. My Dad was saved in his 70's. I mean whether you are saved or recently rededicated your life and faith, it is then that you must let go and let God. The past is left there and you are to entrust the future to the Lord. Don't fear the future, entrust your future. The Lord wants us to rest in his presence today. Give the day to Him when you first wake up and ask Him to be with you as you walk through your day and He will be. A significant amount of risk is involved in trusting God. Risk is part of the very nature of faith (I read that on my calendar and found it thought provoking). That "risk" is what prevents people's minds from letting go and trusting. It is scary and I understand so whatever you do, think about it and pray about it and I believe wonderous things will happen. Be blessed!

Hebrews 11:6

Monday, October 11, 2010

Phillies advance to the next divisional series. This is awesome to watch. I love my boys. Today is a holiday for most. Having company and a table spread of good food equaled a great weekend. It is nice to have full active weekends and others are nice to relax and rejuvenate yourself. I pray today for all the hard workers out there who day after day are commuting and setting the alarm to be out the door by a certain time. I pray for your strength, fervor and favor today as you venture out to your workplaces. And always remember to ask the Lord to come into the office or building with you and pray quietly to yourself once you get there. Short and precise prayers are effective so don't think or say you don't have the time to do it. We all have 30 seconds to spare. It will do wonders with you as you converse with others and deal with situations and in your meetings. You should also ask the Lord for a spirit of protection as you travel to work and ask for travel mercies each and everyday. I betcha you will notice a difference in your days. When the Lord dwells in you, He is with you....in that car, office and meeting. He is even part of every phone conversation. Just give the day to God and He will bless it and sanctify it. Try it! You will see and feel the difference. Happy Monday!

Job 42:10

Sunday, October 10, 2010

What a wonderful weekend. My husband and I worked together yesterday and it was really fun and light hearted. It was a 12 hour day but we laughed and laughed and met some really nice people. Good day! Brought back some old memories. I was tired by the time we got home so it was nice to shower up and just reflect and chill. So I feel anew today and I am ready for the 3 year olds and a fulfilling sermon. Day will be full with company afterwards and an old fashioned Italian supper. God is great. And my husband and I were talking about how important for us it was to put God in the center of our marriage. We see the difference and we feel the difference. It had been a life changer. I tell my old friends that life is achanging and I don't know if everyone is comfortable just yet but it is all good for us. I can feel people looking almost in amazement or wonder how we are able to redirect our lives without working "conventional jobs" and living in the world and its rat race and we give all glory and honor to the Lord. It is why we should never ever judge anyone. We should never ever envy another. For we do not know what goes on behind closed doors. Don't ever think your life has less worth because you don't have the latest $500 watch or purse or fancy pen. I sold all my fancy watches, purses and pens and I can tell you I am still as important to God as I was before. It is all outward status and appearance and although I don't judge, I understand it. Don't value your worth based on someone else. Not their marriages, not their houses, not their looks. Just keep your eyes fixed on God and all He has in store for you. We are all special to God. And THAT is all that matters! Amen. Have a blessed Sunday and extra day off tomorrow. :-)

1 Samuel 12:16

Saturday, October 9, 2010

Red October!! Go Phillies! I love postseason baseball. It is a feeling that just is euphoric. October is a special month in many ways. My Dad's birthday is October 15th. He is my angel in heaven and I love to talk to him. I was looking for something and came across a crossword puzzle book and he had completed the first 10. Neat to see his handwriting. This November 30th will be 5 years of his passing. He is with God. My beloved kitty, Pumpkin who I raised from 8 weeks old to his passing on October 18th of last year, at 21 and a half. He earned that half. He passed with my husband by his side and in his home. Just what I prayed for. October 23rd represents our first date. So we are coming up on 9 years together. Who knew when I met him in 1990 that this would ever be?! October represents breast cancer awareness month and my family has survivors throughout. My Mom being the latest but she is a-okay! Get your mammo ladies! October 22nd represents the passing of C's Mommy and my dear old friend, Carole. So for me October has significance and a deeper meaning. Just wanted to reflect. God is good and it brings me much comfort and joy to know all my loved ones mentioned are with Jesus our Lord in heaven. You always hear the "craziness" that the only way to heaven is through the Lord Jesus and acknowledging Him. Well I am here to tell you as gently but firmly as I can, it is true. Just acknowledge He died for our sins so we could have eternal life and ask Him to come into your heart and life and He will. You know its funny I have heard recently from one person I know and love dearly and another I have never met, that my blog is "deep" and my spiritual walk "intense". I rejoice because the Lord is coming through and He is touching people. I am different. I am not the same person I was before. I have known and loved and lived for God for many years. But He has transformed and changed me. I feel I am being groomed for something. Not sure what. But when I surrendered myself and my life to Him wholeheartedly this past July, something changed for sure. But don't be intimidated or scared or even "weirded" out for I am the same goofy person I always was, just a little wiser that is all ;-) Happy Saturday!

Ephesians 5:17

Friday, October 8, 2010

Stay in the word. Read it everyday. Ignorance allows the devil to come in. Even by a crack as the pastor taught. I really know for me that it is important to know the scriptures. I am trying to learn a new scripture each week and its meaning. Let me tell you when the enemy comes, it will arm you. When someone is hurting, it will guide you. It is the gift left here by God so we will know Him and His stories and how He lived. The Father loved us so much and wanted to set us all free that He sent His only son to die for us. To take the burden and bondage away. As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord and believe in His word. So the bible that sits on your shelf somewhere. Or for you who keeps the bible out front and center on a table but never opens it. Do yourself a huge service and read it today. Whether you read it chronologically from book one or another way. I suggest if you don't have a bible to start with a life application version, NIV. It is clear, modern day and it shows you at the bottom of the pages how to use and apply the scripture in today's times. It could speak of your workplace trials or an addiction problem....it helps relate then to now. It is all seamless. And all so purposeful. Enjoy!


BibleGateway.com gives a wonderful 61 day layout on how to read the bible.

John 3:16

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Keep your eyes fixed on God. It sounds easier said then done. But it is so profound and so powerful of a statement. I was just reflecting yesterday on all that God has done in our lives and I just say to myself we are so spiritually rich. We may not be earthly rich in the financial sense but we are spiritually rich for sure. One of the church's bumper stickers says, "Do Right and Give the Consequences to God" and I thought to myself I am doing that, we are doing that. So why do I worry? There is something we are praying for and believing in and yet I think God may just say no or not do it. Then I realize it is all a lie from the enemy. He wants me to doubt the situation. I am sure he would also like me to doubt God but that will not happen. But as I was looking out the window and just being still, I saw how clear the picture was in God's eyes. For C and I are living right, doing right, serving right,thinking right and tithing right so why am I worried so much? For I know God is proud and pleased and remember our obedience unlocks God's power, so why do I get scared? It is something I am praying about and working on. So never beat yourself up if you feel this way too. It is not lack of faith, it is you simply being honest. God wants us to act on our faith and believe He is hearing our petition and then to wait upon Him. So it is a process for me and I am learning. So like me, try to stay strong, stay focused, stay in the word and leave the rest to God.

Proverbs 4:25

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Keep walking when the enemy is stalking! I learned that in my bible study last night. The enemy wants us to think we have no worth. It wants us to be depressed, defeated, denied, destroyed. Well all you need to do is say to the enemy when it comes is, "It is written". I learned that ignorance is what allows the enemy to enter our lives. When we are not biblically sound, we do not know how to pray away the attack. Jesus was tempted and simply stated, "It is written", and was able to recite scripture. We will always win the battle when we stay fixed on God. We must stay strong and steadfast. The battle is the Lord's and He will fight for us! Give your battles to Him today for He wants to do great and mighty things. I believe miracles will begin to happen. I believe my household will see and experience wonderous things for our obedience. I feel so much lighter since I made my committment to God that I was going to do more in my spiritual walk. It is so true and obvious for me that attending church once a week and then going about your business the next 6 does not cut it. And I say that in a survival sense, not in a judgemental sense. Meaning, I used to attend church and then head off to the workplace. Over the years, my weekly attendance dropped off and my church going became obsolete.I justified it and I made excuses for it. But nonetheless I was not attending church. When you are distracted by anything, God will remove it. When you place anyone or anything, job or otherwise, before God , He will remove it....all of it. And I am here to tell you that He did that very thing to me. I realize why He did. I was so unfocused. So off track. I never denied my God or denounced my beliefs, never. But I was just stagnant, in all ways. Now I see why my life was so in disarray. My marriage, my job, my relationships. But through the blood of the Lamb, I am saved. I am forgiven and all I had to do was acknowledge my ways, my faults and my mistakes. And God said, "Surrender yourself onto me". And that very decision has changed the course of my life. All you have to do is admit you have made a mess of things and seek the Lord's face and He will repair and restore you. All you have to do is ask, seek and knock.

Joshua 24:15

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Well I am claiming what our Pastor stated last night in our 6pm session. He said that he had prayed with a couple who had "needs" and that he believes we will be standing up at the end of the 40 days with our testimony of how God answered our prayer. I stand and believe and claim that with PB. For I am one half of "the couple" he was referring to. I came home last night and wrote down the date and what was cited so we can reflect and use it in our testimony later. I had also had asked the pastor to pray for something specific that had a more urgent matter and no sooner did I come home that God began to move in the direction for me to go and led me to what to do. In less than 12 hours of us praying, God showed me who to call and when I did I received encouraging news. It was a direct result of me obeying God and making a vow that I would serve Him and honor Him and give Him "all of me", "all of the time", not just when I get scared. So once again the number 40 is significant to me and my life. I never knew the number had any meaning until July 5th, 2010. But I know that He is going to do great and mighty things during my 40 days of prayer. And that was not even my intention nor my purpose when I gave my committment and promise to God that I would attend every session with my husband. I simply wanted to show God that He is first in my life, no matter what. And to receive any reward for my obedience is wonderful and I love Him for it. But more important to me than anything? Fulfilling my promise to God. I love you Lord and I thank you for just being you.

Mark 11: 22-25

Monday, October 4, 2010

I have to quickly report that yesterday's message in church was exactly what I wrote about in the morning. How we should run towards God, not away when adversity comes. It was just confirmation. If you pray for something and/or hear about something and then hear the scripture again or the exact same subject again, then it is called confirmation. So I knew God was definitely telling me to run towards Him and not away. I made a promise to myself and a vow before God that I would put Him first and the way I knew I needed to display such action was to get up and pray with the church this am. So the alarm was off at 5am and I was asleep. It took me a few minutes to wake up and it was dark and cold out. So I just got some fall clothes out for us and decided to just jump up and get ready and change. I said to God if I could get up for a pointless meeting at work or for an early morning flight or trip than I certainly can get up early for Him. So with 2 cups of coffee in me, my husband and I were off to the chapel. ALL I asked my husband was, "they don't make you pray out loud do they?" and "they don't single people out do they to pray?" and my husband explained how it goes and that no you could stay in the backdrop if you so chose. Now I love to pray and I pray all the time but always to myself. As confident as I am, I don't feel bold to pray out loud. And I have been praying for boldness in the matter of prayer because it makes me feel good to pray with and for people. But I pray simple you know? So we get there in the rain and cold dark weather and the chapel was brightly lit. And they allow you to quietly devote time to yourself to pray for whatever it is you need. Some were kneeling, some were reading, some were studying. I was reading the book of Joshua and some Psalms. The assigned pastor then got up and talked alittle and instructed us to just break up in groups of 3 and in our group discuss 3 names of people we were praying for in the hopes their souls would be saved. And he said pray together and just let the spirit lead us. So my husband and I were in the row with Pastor Bruce and so he came to us and we formed out group. We talked and shared some names and he suggested we go around the group and each of us pray for the people and he started. Well I grabbed my husband's hand and squeezed it to signal to him to pray for me. There was no way I was going to pray in a circle in front of PB. So we prayed and then Pastor Brent told us to then share in our group our own prayer requests and to again pray as a small group. So the 3 of us shared our requests and what was on our hearts so PB said we would go around the group and he said, "Cindy will pray for me and I will pray for Christian and Christian you can pray for Cindy". WHAT???!!?? Oh no!!! I have to pray out loud! In front of PB and for him????!!!!! This is a cruel joke and I must disappear immediately. But I felt the spirit within me and I felt it move through my heart and chest and I was calm and no longer afraid. I was bold and I prayed out loud for the first time ever. The pastor took my hand and I began to pray for his need and for him. It felt good and I was moved. And we all prayed for each other. Not only was it a special moment for me but also it felt great to recite out loud our needs. And PB prayed for us and me and I was at peace. So off we went and here I am. So God knows our hearts. He knows our desires. Even when we don't speak them. He gave me the opportunity this am to conquer my fear and to boldy pray in His name and He gave me the ability to do just that. And the cherry on the cake was we prayed for each other. And like PB said when we were done, "Amen and consider it done!" So I am praying and believing for the 3 of us and our needs and prayer requests. And I am considering it done!

Matthew 18:20

Sunday, October 3, 2010

How do you handle conflict or a problem? Do you run towards God or away? I always revert back to when I was little and hated getting in trouble. So I always run towards God to make sure "we" are okay and my walk is right and I use it as a self examination of my spiritual walk. Lately though I noticed that I feel I am being punished when adversity comes and my husband has to keep reminding me that self condemnation is not of God. And who taught him that? Me! He preaches back what I have taught. Pretty neat. But I just want to make sure that I am right with God in everyway. Am I doing enough? Should I serve more? Am I working too much again and not in the word enough? It is a constant temperature check for me. Again yesterday something happened and I cried and then just felt a peace and seeked Him. When my husband came home from basketball he told me to stay with him and accompany him to the local church and help hand out food at the foodbank. I immediately said I would and I knew I was running towards God. It made me reflect and realize that these adversities from God make me run towards Him. So that is why they are happening. Would I have gone to the church and prayed and helped if the "problem" didn't arise? Honestly? No. And here I was amongst all these beautiful women and little kids while they were washing cars for the church event. They were handing out packages of food to the poor who came for a meal and some groceries. I stood at the street with the kids with signs to attract people to the car wash. I met the Pastor and her sister and the members and one of my followers and I felt so welcomed and so warm. I immediately took a liking to the environment and the people. It was truly a wonderful and precious experience for me. I immediately wanted to serve them and so I invited the Pastor and the prayer group to my home this week so I can cook for them and allow them to sit back and be pampered and allow the Pastor to be blessed because she is always blessing everyone else. I pray they can work it out. So does God do things to get our attention? You betcha! But more importantly He wants to see how you handle it. Do you run towards Him or away?

Psalm 4

Saturday, October 2, 2010

God is so faithful isn't He? Sometimes we really need to just reflect on His goodness and praise Him. Simply thank Him for all He has done for us. It is too often we reach out only when there is a need. He wants us to cast all our cares unto Him, yes, but I believe there are times when we should also "just" thank Him for all He has already done. It is like calling a friend only when you need something or have a problem and you need to talk to someone. Now how many of us know someone like that? I used do and it became so exhausting to be friends with her I had to end the friendship. I felt like a psychiatrist, not a friend. God loves when we sing, praise, pray, and speak of Him. The angels rejoice in heaven when we do. I just think we should remember God for all He does and not hang on to what He hasn't done. Sometimes an unanswered prayer really was answered...how you ask? In a different way then you asked or expected. Sometimes God answers prayers you don't even see. He is protecting or moving in your life so something is prevented and we never even know it. He is always working in our lives, even when things appear to be stagnant. Just trust Him, every day. He is here with you, with me. Always! Have a great Saturday.

And a shout out.......to all my Flag girls working today..... enjoy it and embrace the day. Be grateful to the Lord you are employed, be grateful to the Lord for the skills He has gifted you with and be grateful for each other. Just think of all the times we didn't appreciate each other when I was with you and now I am not there. So be grateful today. Don't forget to tithe the money He is blessing you with. Whether it is $10 or $100, thank Him today with your tithes and offerings. He is behind all your blessings so reflect on His goodness and honor Him. :-) Justed wanted you all to know I love you and am so proud of you all....VMae, RLee and JLo!!


Ephesians 1:3

Friday, October 1, 2010

Cool and rainy day. We are getting ready to close the pool and move into the Fall season. Another "first" for me and I am looking forward to it. The holidays will be different for me. No longer about the shopping and getting what everyone wants. For me? I am going back to a simpler time. I will be excited about hosting my first Thanksgiving and all the trimmings. I am looking forward to decorating my home like many...on Black Friday weekend. I have never been home before so it will be really fun. I am not into Halloween at all other than seeing the neighborhood kids all dressed up. I have always loved the holidays because my Mom and Dad have always made it special, year after year. So I love the house all lit up and the traditional Jacobs white flocked Christmas tree. The new little guys will be fun to watch....we better nail the tree and Anna Lees down. :-) Something tells me an Anna Lee doll or two will be the new toy to them. They bring C and I a ton of joy. It is like having two little kids. First year without a company party to host. This year I will have a party with my house filled with people that want to be here, not feel obligated to be here. It is funny when you are person of authority everyone respects you and is nice to you. You wonder if they are genuine or "are simply playing the game"...hmmm. However I no longer have to question people's intentions or wonder who is thinking what. I am free thanks be to God. This holiday season will be simple and traditional. Our home will be filled with laughter, joy, and love. Just like it is now. But for now we are entering the month of October. So I will embrace the new season and cool weather and thank the Lord each and every day for His love and presence in my life. I thank Him for the blessing He has given me.....I am forever grateful.

Matthew 7: 7-8