Linus Shares The Gospel

Every family has their Christmas traditions in regards to food, music, movies, trees, decorations, and etc.  One of our families traditions is to watch A Charlie Brown Christmas each year.  This is one of my favorite Christmas movies.  Yes, I know it's a children's cartoon, but I just love this little movie.  

The movie is only about 30 minutes long.  The premise of the movie is Charlie Brown is the director of the annual Christmas play and if you've ever directed a Christmas play, your familiar with all the frustration that entails.  Everyone is complaining to Charlie Brown about everything and no one is doing anything right.  Charlie Brown is totally frustrated and he hollers at the end, "does anyone know what Christmas is all about?"  Linus calmly steps up to the microphone with blanket in hand and quotes scripture from Luke the second chapter that tells the Christmas story.  He simply shares the true meaning of Christmas, the gospel actually, and then turns to Charlie Brown and says, "that's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown."  This is my favorite part of the movie and it always warms my heart and reminds me what Christmas is all about. 

Life is frustrating and at times and especially so amidst all the hustle and bustle of Christmas, we too wonder like Charlie Brown what life is all about.  When we get to that point we know we've put our relationship with Christ on the back burner.  It's time to sit down, pick up our Bibles and remind ourselves once again what life is all about.

This little movie is a great one to watch with your children to share the gospel and teach them truly the real reason for the season.  

I can't wait to light the fireplace, turn down the lights, light a few candles, pop some corn, and watch Linus share the gospel message once again.

Merry Christmas from our house to yours!

Surrender All

To surrender means to, relinquish to the power of another; yield to the control of another.  Christ calls us to take up our cross and follow Him.  We are to surrender our life to Him.  We are to walk like Him, talk, like Him, act like Him, and think like Him.  He says we are to have the mind of Christ.  

Hands outstretched, mean surrender.  We are to be totally surrendered to Christ.  No longer do we desire our will or our way, but we long to please Him.  There is no happiness until we finally and willfully surrender all to Christ.

Most of us will surrender some areas of our life to Christ, but there are those few areas that we would rather handle ourselves.  In other words, we do not fully surrender all to Christ.  We hold back and try to handle things ourselves, but it's full surrender that He wants. 

We must lose ourselves to truly find ourselves.  C. S. Lewis said, "Nothing you have not given away will ever really be yours."   Give it up.  Give it all to Christ, hold nothing back.

My Thoughts On President Obama's Win

I watched the election returns on Tuesday night until I got so sleepy I decided to go to bed.  When I went to sleep, Romney was leading and I really thought he would win.  

My husband woke up in the early morning hours and turned on the TV to see who had won.  He woke me up as he was headed back to bed. I asked him who had won.  When he said, Obama, I must admit I was a little shocked.  It was not what I was expecting.

I must also admit I am more than a little perplexed as to how he won after he gave us "Obamacare", a trillion dollar national debt, Benghazi Gate, and the first President to openly speak in favor of gay marriage.  I personally believe he won because the states with the most electoral votes are more liberal and in my opinion, he is the most liberal President we've ever had, beating Bill Clinton for that title.

I'm not happy about the direction our country is headed, so I've made the decision I am going to pray for our President.  The truth is, like it or not, Barak Obama is the President of the United States.  The Bible tells me to pray for those in authority.  This is a God given command and I want to be obedient to God.  A man of God, in whom I have confidence, has said we're going to like the way this election turns out. 

God is my source.  He is the highest power and the   

One to whom I pledge my allegiance, but He does tell us to pray for those in authority, so I for one will do just that.  Will you join me in praying for our President?  Let's pray that he will lead this nation with Godly wisdom and in the right direction.

Cades Cove

Cades Cove



In July we made our yearly trek to one of the most beautiful places on earth, Cades Cove in the Smokey Mountains.  As usual we drove through very slowly looking for deer and bear and we were not disappointed.  We were were almost to the end of our picturesque scenic drive when we saw the biggest black bear slowly stroll across the road in front of our truck.  We were truly excited because we didn't think we were going to see a bear this time, but not only did we see one, but he was a big one!

The Power Of The Cross

Too many times worship is humdrum.  A worship leader stands before the congregation with Praise Team as back up singing a mantra over and over.  As good as the mantra may be there is no substance.  The song may have a catchy tune, but it's that and nothing more.

This song by Stuart Townend is different.  The lyrics tell the gospel message in a worshipful style that will bless your innermost being.  This song's lyrics have depth and remind me of the hymns written by Watts and Wesley.  Listening to, "The Power Of The Cross"  will immediately get your attention and focus on Christ and what He did at Calvary.

The church needs more songs like this being sung on Sunday morning.  

Choose Joy!

I think we have to make a conscious decision each day to be joyful.    I wish I could say that I'm always joyful, but that's certainly not the case.  

There is a woman I know who does seem to be always joyful.  Every time I see her she has a big smile on her face.  I must confess she makes me feel a little guilty and I secretly wonder if she ever has those "down" days.  She is human, so I'm guessing there are those days in her life, but still I've never seen her not smiling.

The Bible tells us the joy of the Lord is our strength.  Lots and lots of days I feel so weak, but those are the days I cry out to Jesus.  I ask Him to give me His strength, because I do not have any on my own.    I have found out when I call on Him to strengthen me, He always does.  Before long I'm worshiping Him and I begin to feel that joy bubbling up from within.  Then I feel His strength and believe that I can make it through another day.

So tomorrow, and the next day, and the day after that, choose joy!  

Beautiful Worship Song

This is a beautiful new worship song by Israel Houghton.  I really, really like it.  Listen and enjoy the presence of God, because His presence truly is Heaven.  

Remembering 9/11

On September 11, 2001, I was at work, teaching a small group of special needs children.  My paraprofessional left the room and returned a few minutes later with a worried look on her face.  She called me to the side and informed me of the news that the Twin Towers in New York City had been attacked.  That's all we knew.  We could only presume.  Were we being attacked by another country?  If so, what country?  Why would someone deliberately attack us?  What had our country done?  So many questions raced through our heads, but no answers.  

Every American felt the terror, which was exactly what the terrorists wanted. To inflict pain, death, and terror on America, which had long been the land of the free and home of the brave.  

So many lives were lost that day.  It was horrific to watch the towers burning, people jumping out the windows to their deaths, and then the towers falling to the ground in a pile of rubble.  Not only were the Twin Towers attacked, but also the Pentagon, and then of course, flight 77 which crashed in a field in Pennsylvania.  

September 11 is now called Patriot Day.  Americans will remember the victims and their families.  We will also remember the brave men and women who saved many lives, but lost their lives in the process. 

I remember after 9/11 church attendance went up.  Congress came together on the steps of the Capitol building and were united.  They even prayed together.  American flags were flying everywhere you looked.  America was united after this terrible tragedy.  Patriotism was at an all time high.  In the midst of it all, Americans were rising up.  It was a good feeling, but that feeling is now gone and America has returned to business as usual.  What am I talking about, you might ask?  I'm talking about church attendance dropping.  Why did America quit going to church to hear the Word of God and worship the God of hope and Jesus, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life?  We were headed in the right direction, but now we have returned to our old ways.

We are living in the last days before Christ returns.  These are troubled times.  The economy is failing, the government's debt now tops 16 trillion, millions of babies have been aborted, marriage is being redefined and what constitutes a family, many worship at the altars of materialism, prayer has been taken out of our public schools, but is allowed in Congress and in other institutions, pornography continues to rise and threaten our children, crime continues to rise at an alarming rate, drugs have ruined millions of lives, homes, and families, and we continue on as if everything is okay.  

America needs to wake up!  America's homes, families, and churches need an old fashion Holy Ghost revival!  We have been lulled to sleep by the enemy.  Dad's have forsaken their little innocent children and the devil is coming in and destroying them.  We must return to the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.  We must bow our knees in humble submission to God and cry aloud in repentance before it's too late.  Souls are dying all around us.  We must reach them with the good news of the gospel~ that Jesus saves and in Him our hope is found.  We can turn it around, but we must repent of our evil ways and follow Jesus Christ!

I'm reminded of a song we use to sing in our church when I was a child.  It's called, "In Times Like These."  Listen to these young girls, the Cadet Sisters as they sing this song so beautifully.  This song tells us exactly what we need, and His name is Jesus. 

If you don't know Jesus, you can know Him.  Just repent of your sins, and invite Jesus to take control of your life.  You've made a mess of everything you've tried to do.  You have no hope, but He is your hope today.  He will turn everything around and you can begin again, because you will be born again in Him.

He's My Friend

Have you ever felt totally alone?  It sounds strange, but it is true what they say, you can be alone even in a crowd.  We've all experienced this feeling at times in our lives.  

It's not a good feeling to feel alone, of course, unless we want to be alone.  There are times when I want to be alone, and cherish those moments where I can read my favorite book, paint my toenails, play my piano, or just watch a TV show that I like without any interruptions.  Sometimes, as the song goes, "Silence Is Golden."

There are those times, however, when we wish there was just somebody to talk to, or just be there beside us to help us in this journey called, "life."  That's one of the good things about marriage, you do have that partner there with you through the good times and the bad.  At least, that's the way a marriage is supposed to be, but sometimes it's not, and again you can feel all alone even in marriage.

The good news is we have a friend that Jesus Himself sent to help us and He is, The Holy Spirit.  He is a person of the Godhead, or the Trinity and He was sent specifically to help us.  I've called on Him many times and He's always right there to help me.

One day I was facing a problem and I couldn't find a solution.  I had tried everything I could think of, but couldn't solve my problem, until I prayed and asked the Holy Spirit to help me.  Immediately He brought a person to my mind that could help me.  I had not thought of this person before.  I called them and they were able to help me.  

I don't believe I would ever thought of this person.  I believe the Holy Spirit brought this person to my mind when I prayed and asked Him to help me.  I am so thankful for the person of The Holy Spirit.  I don't want to even try to live without Him.  Jesus sent Him to this earth to indwell every Believer and I am so glad He came. Thank you, Holy Spirit for leading and guiding me today.  He will guide you into all truth and tell you exactly what to do.  

A Personal History With God

I listened to this message by Pastor Bill Johnson this afternoon and it was so touching and so good I wanted to share it with my readers.

He gets to the meat and potatoes of what it is to be a real Christian and a real follower of Jesus Christ.

I think you'll enjoy it as much as I did and be stirred to get a personal history with God for yourself.  We can't grow in Christ holding onto the shirt tail of our grandmother, father, or whoever else.  We have to have that close encounter with Christ for ourselves.

IT'S NOT, 'WHAT WOULD JESUS DO'

Okay, your here because you read the title of my blog, correct?  It stirred your curiosity and that's exactly what I intended the title to do.  The reason is obvious, I wanted you to read my blog.  So, here you are, and this is what I have to say.  Just keep reading.

A few years ago someone came up with the idea for a bracelet to wear with the initials, WWJD.  Almost everyone understood the letters were an acronym for, "What would Jesus do?"    This bracelet was to serve as a reminder to Christians to think about this question in any given circumstance or situation in their life where they were unsure what to do.  For example, if the young person were at a party and they were faced with the temptation to drink, or anything else, contrary to the Word of God, the bracelet was to remind them, "now, what would Jesus do in this situation", and then hopefully the person would make the right decision.  

I get this, and I'm not knocking this idea at all, but I offer a counter suggestion.  What, if we, instead of asking ourselves, What would Jesus do, just stop and think: What DID Jesus do?  We can know what Jesus did by reading His Holy Word, the Bible, and see exactly what He did.  That's why the Word of God was written, to show us The Way, The Truth, and The Life~Jesus.  He wants us to follow His example and didn't leave us in the dark wondering what we should do.

Listen to this scripture, "I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees His Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does."  John 5:19.   So we see by this verse that Jesus only did what He saw His Father doing.  

It's just like when we're training our children.  They don't always hear what we say to them, but they will do what they see us doing, much to our chagrin, sometimes.  

You and I can follow Jesus' example by reading the Word and seeing what Jesus did.  We don't have to ask ourselves, "what would Jesus do?" We can know what Jesus did by reading and following His example in His Word and then just do it, just like He did. 

The point to this entire blog is simply this:  we really don't have to ask ourselves, what would Jesus do, we can know what Jesus did by reading His Word and then follow His example.

Because Sometimes We Forget

This song is such a blessing to me, because it reminds me of God's great love for me!  Sometimes we forget how much He loves us, but this song reminds us of the fact!

Listen and be reminded, because sometimes we forget.

If You Can Dream It, You Can See It

We finally got our Master bedroom painted and I love it!  The color is amazing.  It's a shade of gray from Benjamin Moore, called Pismo Dunes.  I think it looks really good with my new duvet cover and pillow shams from Pottery Barn.  I also bought new lamp shades today at Walmart. 

 The room  I've been dreaming of is finally coming together.  The only problem I have now is what accent colors do I want to add.  I've thought of blue, turquoise, or persimmon.  I just can't seem to make up my mind.

It's amazing but once you get a vision or goal, it comes to pass.  If you can see it in your mind's eye, so to speak, you will eventually see it with your natural eye.

  This is what the Word of God says.  "For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie; though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry."  Habakkuk 2:3. 

So, if you need your lost children to be saved, envision them saved and sitting beside you in church.  If you need a job, envision yourself working.  If you need to lose weight, envision yourself thinner and wearing that new wardrobe.  

You see what I mean?  It's in the Bible and the Bible does not lie.

 

The Woman

One of my favorite stories in the Bible is where Jesus talks with the woman at the well.  Why?  Because He went out of His way for this woman.  This story reassures me that Jesus will do whatever it takes to win the lost.  


He told the disciples that he needed to go through Samaria.  He needed to go through Samaria because He knew there was a woman there who needed Him.  She didn't realize she needed Him, but she did.  Her life was a mess.  She was guilt ridden.  This woman would not come draw water from the well when the other women were there, because they would shun her. They whispered about her behind her back.   They didn't like her because she was a sinner and did sinful things, but that's what sinners do.


Are we guilty of shunning people, because we don't approve of their life style?  I certainly have.  Admit it, so have you.  Am I right?  Sure, we all have.  Sometimes we think we're these goody good Christians and that we might be tainted by those no good sinners.


Jesus said we were to be light and salt in this sinful world.  He certainly let His light shine that day.  He reached out, even went out of His way for this sinful, wretched outcast.  He showed her compassion and love.  The disciples didn't understand Him.  The woman even questioned why He was even talking to her.  She was a nobody, but that day she became a born again on fire believer.  She immediately went back to town and shared the good news of the gospel.  In fact, she led others to Christ.  


That's what we're all supposed to do.  We are to lead others to Christ and the way we do that is by loving the unlovable.  


We don't want to be around those who don't smell too good or dress too nice, but they are the ones that Jesus came to save.  


When is the last time you and a I deliberately went out of our way to show someone else the Way?

Choose Joy!

Do you experience days when it seems like your fighting depression every step of the way?  You know what I'm talking about?  Days where it feels like there's a black cloud following you around every where you go?  We all have them from time to time.

Not long ago it was one of those days for me.  I felt like I had a ball and chain attached to my ankle and every movement was a chore.  


But then I decided I was going to make every effort to be happy.  I made a conscious decision to be joyful and pretty soon I did feel joyful.


Philippians 4:4 says, "Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice."  This almost sounds like a command to me.  When your feeling down, rejoice.  You see, according to Nehemiah 8:10 we're told the joy of the Lord is our strength.  Joy gives you the ability to laugh in the devil's face.  So go ahead and laugh at the devil.  He is already a defeated foe.  He knows it, but we need to remind him when he rears his ugly head.


So tomorrow, and the next day, and the day after that choose joy.  Laugh out loud.  Watch a funny movie.  Read a joke book, or just go look at yourself in the mirror.  That ought to make you laugh a little, but choose joy.

Easy Key Lime Pie

Our 2 grandsons spent the night with us this past weekend.  On Friday night we went out to eat.  Our oldest grandson wanted to make a Key Lime Pie that night, but after we went out to eat it was too late.  They settled for a chocolate dipped cone at McDonald's instead.


On Saturday morning we all went to play tennis at the park and after lunch we went by the store to purchase the ingredients to make the Key Lime Pie.  My grandson kept telling me it was easy and delicious.  


He quickly whipped up the ingredients and we put the pie in the fridge to chill for about 30 minutes.  You know what?   He was right!  This pie was quick, easy, and delicious!  It only requires 4 ingredients too.  


So here is the recipe for my grandson's Easy Key Lime Pie:
1 can Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk
1 8 oz. Cool Whip
1 pkg. lime Kool Aid
1 purchased graham cracker crust


Mix all the ingredients together and pour into graham cracker crust and chill about 30 minutes.  Enjoy!  This recipe makes 1 pie and you could use any flavor of Kool Aid.

God's Medicine and Natural Medicine

Proverbs 4:20-22 says, "My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings.  Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart.  For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh."  

The Hebrew word for "health" in verse 22 is "medicine."  God's word is medicine to all our flesh.  

There are several comparisons between God's medicine and natural medicine.  First, God's Word is a healing agent.  It contains the capacity to produce healing.  Second, we might say medicine is no respecter of persons.  It will work for anyone who takes it.  Third, and most important, medicine must be taken according to directions to be effective.

So it is with God's medicine.  It must be taken according to directions to work.  The directions for taking God's medicine are found in Proverbs 4:20-21:  attend to them (God's words), incline your ear to them, don't let them depart from before your eyes, and keep them in the midst of your heart.

Remember, it takes time for medicine to work.  Most people give natural medicine time to work.  They take the prescriptions back for  more refills.  They are diligent about it.  They don't just take one dose and expect a miracle.  Keep taking God's medicine.  Give it time to work.  

Make this confession of faith:  "I receive the healing that is in God's Word.  Healing is inherent in God's nature.  God is in me.  My body is the temple of God.  My body is the temple of the Lord that healeth me.  God is bigger than sickness and Satan.  God is dwelling inside of me now, healing me now.  The Lord that healeth me is my Shepherd; I do not lack healing.  My body has to respond to God's healing life and nature at work in me now.  Healing is in God, and God is in me.  I thank you, Father, because You are my Healer and You are healing me now."

Paula Deen's Peanut Butter Pie

Several years ago my husband brought home a Peanut Butter Pie that he bought at a truck stop and it was delicious!  It was the first time I had ever tasted a Peanut Butter Pie and I was in Peanut Butter Heaven.  Like so many of you, I love the taste of chocolate and peanut butter.  They were meant to go together.  Paula doesn't add chocolate to this recipe, but I would put whip cream on top instead of the peanuts and then drizzle it with chocolate syrup.


From then on just about every time we went to Birmingham we would stop and buy a whole Peanut Butter Pie to take home and enjoy, which was pretty often there for awhile:)

Speaking Faith Words

"...Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.  A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things:  and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things."  Matthew 12:34,35


Have you ever spoke words that surprised you?  After you heard the words that came out of your mouth, did you wonder, "where did that come from?"  


I think we've all done that at least one time in our lives.  The above verse gives us the answer to this question.  It came from our heart and we didn't realize we even felt that way.


I remember one time speaking some unkind words about my uncle. I didn't think he heard me, but he did and I was so ashamed.  I've said unkind words since then and hurt people.  It hurt me too, when I realized how I hurt them.


I decided a long time ago that I would rather be hurt by others than to know that I hurt someone.

Most of us try to watch what we say, but still say hurtful things.  According to the above scripture we need to guard our hearts and make sure we are walking in love.  One way to do this is to let go of offence and anger.  Forgive others quickly and do not take offence.


It all comes down to our love walk.  Let us love Jesus Christ with all our heart, soul, and mind and our neighbors as ourselves.

Evangelist Nathan Morris Preaching

This young man is on fire for God.  Listen to him preaching and be blessed.

Everyday

This song is what I use as my theme song on my radio broadcast, "The Believer's Walk".  I like it because not only is it upbeat, the lyrics are about following Jesus every day.  That's what The Believer's Walk is endeavoring to do-----make disciples for Jesus Christ.  Plus, the Bible says to take up your cross daily and follow Him.  


It's all about Jesus and what He did for us on Calvary.  We are trying to "do, do, do", when Jesus says it's "done, done, done."  

The Good Shepherd

The Lord is my Shepherd.  The Lord loves me.  He takes care of me.  He protects me just like the shepherd takes care of and protects the sheep and just like the sheep I need a Shepherd.  I need a shepherd because just like the sheep I'm dumb and don't know what's best for me.  I am weak, but He is strong.  I am so grateful for the Good Shepherd.  Because of Him, I have no wants.  I do not want for food, finances, family, friends, health, or any other good thing.  My Jesus loves me and I love Him.  We walk together and commune together.  He is MY personal Shepherd.  He is the Good Shepherd.  


"Lord, I thank you for watching over me and my family today.  Thank you for loving me.  You are the Good Shepherd and you care for me.  Thank you for your blessings on me."

YEAH JESUS!

Before I opened my Bible this morning, I prayed, "Lord, give me a Rhema word from your word concerning my _______."   I opened my NIV Bible to Luke 13:6, and there it was, my Rhema word!  God is so faithful!  I was considering a change in a certain situation, but I was not certain it was the thing to do, until I read verse 6.  I believe it was God telling me to stay put at least one more year, so that is my plan, or should I say that is God's plan.  I do believe the steps of a righteous man (or woman) are ordered of God, because He says so in His Word.  Also, Romans 8:28 (NIV) says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."  So we don't have to try and work things out, God is telling us, "I've got this."  Wow, what a relief, to just trust and rest in our Heavenly Father.I kept reading on in the 13th chapter of Luke and when I got to verses 18 & 19, I got really excited!  Why, (you might be asking yourself right now, or maybe not)?  Because, Christ is explaining what the kingdom of God is like.  And you know what it's like?Christ says it's like a little, bitty, tiny, mustard seed.  But you know what?  It grows big!  It becomes as big as a huge, gigantic oak tree and the birds come and rest in its branches.  This comparison tells me that the kingdom of God is small.  It's planted inside of us, like the seed is planted in the ground.  It's invisible to those around us, just like the seed is invisible in the ground, but just as the seed begins to grow and become visible, so does the kingdom of God within us.  Then just as the mustard seed begins to grow big and prosper, so do we as the kingdom operates in us.  We begin to grow and prosper.   That's why I got excited.  One of the commands God gave Adam and Eve in the garden, was to be fruitful and multiply.  God is a God of prosperity and multiplication.  He wants us to prosper and be successful.  When we prosper, we can help others.  Then I read about how Jesus healed the woman with the spirit of infirmity for 18 years, and the Pharisees got mad because He healed her on the Sabbath.  So Jesus just turns around and rebukes them, because they would untie their oxen or donkey and lead them to get water on the Sabbath, and why shouldn't this daughter of Abraham who has been bound 18 years be loosed on the Sabbath also.  Isn't she of more value than their oxen or donkey?  They felt humiliated, and they should.  Here they are rebuking Jesus.  What nerve!  I'm so glad He put them in their place.That's when my spirit man yelled, "Yeah, Jesus!"  Let them have it!  Isn't Jesus the most relevant, wisest, honest, purest man that ever lived?  But, He's more than that!  He is the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world!  I'm so glad I know Him today.  Do you know Him?  If not, you can.  Just invite Him to come in and make His abode with you, and then read all about Him in the Bible.  You will begin to know Jesus, the Son of God, the way, the truth, and the life.   

I'M A FOLLOWER

Follow the leader.

Happy Mom's Day

Happy Mom's Day to all you mothers.  You have the MOST important job on this planet and that is to raise honorable, trustworthy, respectful, responsible, and Godly children.  If all mom's did their job according to the Biblical way, and that is to train up a child in the way it should go, prisons wouldn't be as full and the world would be a much better place for all of us.  Thank God for Godly mothers today!

Beautiful Things

"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:  old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
2 Corinthians 5:17


Christ changes us into a new creature, someone who never existed before!  He changes us into something new.  The old is gone and its like it never was.  He wipes the slate clean.  Your old self, your old past is gone.  He takes our sins and cast them into the Sea of Forgetfulness.  You stand clean before God.  Your brand new.  When God looks at you, He looks at you through the blood of Jesus Christ which has washed you and made you clean in Calvary's flow.  


Give God the glory and praise today for what He has done!  He (God) has made you the righteousness of Jesus Christ!  We're somebody in Christ Jesus.   Praise His name!

It's Turn Around Time

Things may look hopeless right now, but I want you to know it's your turn around time!  Put your hope and trust in Almighty God.  Rest in Him.  Quit striving in your own strength.  Give it all to God and watch Him do great and mighty things in your life and in your families life.  It's time for things to turn around in your life.  Are your ready for it?  Your going to be so blessed you won't know what hit you!  I'd love to hear your testimonies when it happens, and it will.  God bless you.

Let Your Spirit Fall

We need the fire of the Holy Spirit operating freely in our lives.  The fire and wind of the Holy Spirit will burn away the dross in our lives, purify us, and make us vessels that God can pour in and through us to bless others.  When we walk in the Spirit, the arm of flesh has no control over us.  There will be fresh oil and we will walk in the newness of life everywhere we go.  Allow the Holy Spirit to be the wind in your sail today, blowing you to the shore of God's destination for your life.  God has a perfect plan for your life, but we must release ourselves to His will and trust Him to be the Captain and the driving force behind everything we do and say.  We are doing Kingdom work.  He is the King and we are subject to Him in every area of our lives.  When we fully submit to the Spirit, there will be power in our lives to do Kingdom work and great things will be done by the Body of Christ.  Come Holy Spirit and help us today.  Fall on us Holy Spirit!

Be Free

"And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."  John 8:32


There is not anything quite as valuable as freedom.  Sin's bondage is a heavy load to bear.  It's so heavy that man cannot bear it.  Sin will drag you to the devil's hell.   Hell was not made for man, but for the devil.  Christ came and shed His blood that we could be made free from the bondage of sin.  When the blood is applied, your made a new creature in Christ Jesus and He whom the Son makes free is free indeed.  I'm thankful that I'm free to worship, free to dance, free to sing, free to praise my God, creator of Heaven and earth.  No longer does sin have a hold on me. If you haven't accepted Jesus, do so today and experience freedom that only comes from Him who is the way, the truth, and the life.  Be free in Jesus' name!
Pray this prayer:
"Lord Jesus, I come to you and confess that I am a sinner in need of a Savior.  I believe in you and ask you to forgive and cleanse me from all of my sins.  Come into my heart Lord Jesus and take control.  I confess you as my Savior and will follow you all the rest of the days of my life here on this earth.  Thank you for saving me!"


If you prayed this prayer, I would love to hear your testimony.  God bless you today.

Egg Hunts, Caterpillars, and Port O Potty

I hope everyone had a great Resurrection Sunday!  I know I did.  We visited my son and his family in St. Louis.  On Saturday the grandchildren dyed eggs and then we had an egg hunt.  It was such fun.  On Sunday we attended church service.  We all walked to church a few blocks away.  A lady saw us and commented that it looked like an Easter parade.  Our daughter-in-law Elizabeth had on a black and white print dress, bright pink jacket, and gold heels.  Our little grand daughter, Kathryn was wearing a purple checked gingham dress smocked with tiny pink flowers and white collar.  I had on an aqua and brown polka dotted skirt, with matching aqua sleeveless shell and jacket.  Our grandson had on khaki shorts, white buttoned shirt, and white sweater vest with blue and green diamonds.  My son was wearing a white shirt with pale blue sweater and purple and red striped tie.  My husband had on a navy coat, grey slacks and purple tie and so we did look pretty colorful.  I enjoyed the service because the choir sang one of my favorite songs, "In Christ Alone".  The minister  preached an inspiring message about Jesus Christ and our hope in Him alone.  At the end of the sermon the choir sang Handel's Messiah.  It was a beautiful rendition.  After the service we walked back home like little ducks all in a row.  We then watched videos of our son's family trip to Disney World a few weeks ago and also our grandson's gymnastics tournament, in which he won first place on the high bar.  Our daughter in law prepared a delicious meal of baked ham, smashed potatoes, and green beans.  For dessert she had made home made angel food cupcakes, shaped like Easter eggs with fresh strawberries and whipped cream.  After lunch the grandchildren and my husband and I had about 10 egg hunts.  It was such a beautiful time with family.  That evening we walked downtown and ate at a grill where I ordered a mouth watering cheeseburger with home made fries.  We also enjoyed sitting out under their big oak tree in the back yard, except the caterpillars were a little annoying.  They were all over the tree and more than a few times we would discover them on our clothing or trying to crawl up our leg.   I got tickled at my little grandson.  One time I heard him say, "I've got a caterpillar in my shoe, but I don't care!  It feels warm against my foot."  Oh the joys of grand children.  We also went to the zoo.  My husband had to go to a port o potty.  Our little grand daughter spotted him just as he was about to go in and hollered loudly, "Hi granddad!"  She then turned to me and said, "I wonder how they drive it because it has wheels on it."  We had a grand time and feel so blessed!

SHEEP FOLLOW

MY SHEEP HEAR MY VOICE, AND I KNOW THEM, AND THEY FOLLOW ME:  AND I GIVE UNTO THEM ETERNAL LIFE; AND THEY SHALL NEVER PERISH, NEITHER SHALL ANY MAN PLUCK THEM OUT OF MY HAND.                 JOHN 10:27, 28

Feeling Insufficient?

Do you ever feel that your insufficient?  Do you struggle and never seem to get ahead or that your not seeing the results you would like to see?  If so, your not alone.  Under the old covenant of the law people struggled to be perfect but always came up short, or lacking.  No matter how hard they tried they just couldn't keep the law, but under the new covenant of grace we don't have to do anything.  Why?  Because Jesus Christ did it all on Calvary and there's nothing left for us to do but to accept His supreme sacrifice.  You see we feel like WE must do, do, do, but under Christ's covenant of grace it is already done, done, done!  He paid the sin debt we owed, now all we have to do is just accept His finished work at Calvary.  His grace is sufficient for every need.  According to Philippians 4:13, we can do all things through Christ which strengthens us.  When you feel weak, unrighteous, unlovable, unworthy, a day late and a dollar short, as they say, just remember Christ did it all and now you are strong, righteous, loved, worthy and the blessings are overtaking you!  Look out, there's a blessing coming your way!

WALK BY FAITH

I'm Not Ashamed

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ:  for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek."
Romans 1:16 KJV


Lord, help us to be like the Apostle Paul and preach the Word of God with boldness.

Were It Not For Grace

This song beautifully sums up the gospel.  Listen and prepare to be wonderfully blessed as your reminded of the love our Heavenly Father has bestowed upon us through His dear Son, Jesus Christ!

Blessings!

Pam

Lion Of Judah

Broccoli Cornbread

Got a new recipe for you!  


Broccoli Cornbread


1 box Jiffy mix
1 box frozen chopped broccoli
4 eggs
1/2 cup butter
1 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped onion


Lightly oil a large skillet and sprinkle with cornmeal.  Heat in oven for five minutes.  Blend together Jiffy mix, broccoli, beaten eggs, butter, cheese, and onions.


Pour into hot skillet.  Bake at 400 degrees for 45 minutes.

REMIND ME WHO I AM

Jason Gray's song, "Remind Me Who I Am", is a song that reminds me who I am in Christ Jesus.  Yes, I once was lost, but now I'm found.  I once had no strength, but now I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!  I once was unworthy, but Jesus made me worthy.  I once had no righteousness, but Jesus made me righteous, and now I am the righteousness of God through Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior.  You get the picture.


The Word says in 2 Corinthians 5:17, "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:  old things are passed away, behold, all things are become new."


Not only did God through Jesus defeat Satan, but God has made us new creations who have authority over Satan.  He has no authority over us.  We are new creatures (someone who never existed before).  Think about that!  We have a new identity, a new beginning, a new life!  


This song is saying we need to be reminded who we are, because the devil will try to tell you otherwise.  That's why it's very, very, very important to read God's love letter.  In it He tells us He loves us and what He did about it.  He sent His only begotten Son to die for our salvation!  Isn't that the best thing you've ever heard? That's why it's called the Good News, because it is certainly Good News!

Papa's Funeral

She was just a young girl growing up in the hills of Kentucky and she was the oldest child.  Her parents worked hard to put food on the table and she and her brother's and sisters helped by cooking, gathering fire wood, helping with the laundry, and feeding the animals on their small Kentucky farm.  They had plenty of food to eat from their garden and life was hard, but good until one gray, cold, December day just before Christmas.


On this day her daddy suddenly got ill and died.  Doctors were scarce and even if they got to the rural areas in time their expertise and medical equipment was just not enough to save lives.


The morning of Papa's funeral was gloomy and dark, just like the soul's inside the little farm house as they tried to dress for the service.   Every movement that Viola tried to make was a forced one and one that she had to concentrate on to make.  Members of her family moved around like zombies.  She saw Mamie in her long, black silk gown and black hat on her head pick up her purse.  She called for the children to get in the wagon, it was time to go.  


At last the grave side service was over and they climbed back into the wagon for the trip back home.  The sky was really gray now, a murky color, in fact, and it was beginning to snow.  Everyone pulled their blankets up to their chins trying to stay warm as old "Bob" plodded toward home. Seemed like he sensed the sadness too. 


When they finally arrived the snow flakes were even bigger and the snow was blanketing the ground.  Viola went in and helped her brothers start a fire, as Mamie took off her hat and gloves to prepare something to eat.  The house had never felt this cold and lonely before.  


They finally had a nice fire burning brightly in the fireplace, when there was a knock at the door.  When Viola answered, there stood a neighbor lady, who live about 5 miles up the road from them.  In her arms she was carrying a basket of food.  She came into the house.  Mamie came from the kitchen to greet her.  The neighbor told her, she was coming to spend the night with the family.  All of a sudden there seemed to be a little relief on the faces of all the family.  Someone was there to share in their grief and make their load a little lighter and their dark world that night a little brighter.


Note:  The above story was taken from what I heard my grandmother relate to my mother about the night after her father's funeral.  As she related this story, she started to cry.  She told my mother that the neighbor lady probably never knew how much that meant to her that night. I've never forgot what this neighbor did also.


"And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself."  Matthew 22:39

Holy Is the Lord

This song is so uplifting.  It's one of my favorite Brooklyn Tabernacle songs.  They are such a blessing to the body of Christ.  

Keep Walking On

The road winds long through hill and vale,
I'm tired of walking, but walk I shall.
Where does it lead?  I cannot see,
but I'm compelled to walk with Thee.


My dear Companion, walks close by my side,
He leads me on, in Him I abide.
And when yon' sun lies down for me,
I'll keep on walking, for now I'm free!


                             Written by,
                                Pamela Smith
                                     11/22/2004

God's Love Letter

This is so beautiful!  Our Heavenly Father really does love us.  Do not doubt His love.  Read His love letter to you.  


God Bless!

The Light

"As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world."
John 9:5

Different

"Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles' wings, and brought you unto myself.  Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people:  for all the earth is mine:  And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation.  These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel."  Exodus 19:4-6

We are a covenant people.  What does covenant mean?  It means a promise.  We have a promise from God the Father that we are His people and the sheep of His pasture.  He loves us so much He gave His only begotten Son for us.  He loves us!  There isn't anything He wouldn't do for you!  He would move Heaven and earth for you!  

In this passage of scriptures He is reminding His people (you and I) what He did for us.  He brought Israel out of Egypt's bondage.  That's what He has done for us also.  He brought us out of sin's bondage and He says we are His.  I am His and He is mine.  He calls me His beloved and He carries us on eagle's wings.  His yoke is easy and His burden is light.  He makes a way where there seems to be no way.

He calls us a peculiar treasure.  We're different from the world.  We're valuable, but different.  I'm glad to be different, how about you?  I don't want to be like the world.  I want to be like Jesus.  

MY FAVORITE THINGS

These are a few of my favorite things:
 a babies smile, new fallen snow, a starlit night, children playing, a fire in the fireplace on a cold winter's night, tulips blooming in the spring, the smell of coffee, rain falling softly while I'm sleeping, wrapping myself in a soft, comfy blanket on a dreary winter's day, a good book to read, a dinner date with friends, worship at church with my family, a hot fudge sundae, holding a newborn baby, the smell of bacon frying, family gathered around my big dining room table, autumn leaves falling, blue birds sitting on my fence, listening to music, hearing a good sermon, playing my piano, writing poetry, the feel of warm sand between my toes, the warmth of the sun on my face, the wind blowing gently through my hair, the smell of fresh cut grass, watching fluffy white clouds floating across an azure sky, the sound of a creaky screen door shutting, lying in a hammock and daydreaming on a lazy afternoon, taking a leisurely walk, riding my bike with my husband, making smores in the backyard with the grandchildren, praying for a friend, giving someone an unexpected gift, opening the door for an elderly person, giving someone a smile and watching them smile back, watching a classic movie, seeing someone who is lonely and talking to them, saying the pledge of allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, making a meal for my family, homemade chocolate pie, and the smell of freshly laundered clean white sheets.  These are a few of my favorite things.

SING

SING LIKE NOBODY IS LISTENING!

FATHER'S LOVE LETTER

 

This is a video called, "Father's Love Letter".  If you've never seen it, I urge you to please watch.  It will remind you of just how important and loved you are by your Heavenly Father.

This is my Valentine to all of you!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

YOU ARE LOVED!