Faith-Lift Friday(11/28/08)

Psalm 73: 23-26

23 Nevertheless I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by my right hand.
24 Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory.
25 Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee.
26 My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.

I read this in one of the devotionals I did this week and it kept running though my mind and heart.

Many things about tomorrow

I don’t seem to understand;

But I know who holds tomorrow

And I know who holds my hand. —Stanphill

Let God do the holding and you do the trusting.

Faith-Lift Friday(friday after the election)

Wednesday afternoon my sister sent me an email and in it was these verses and this article.. I thought it was well worth passing on and sharing with all of you..

I Timothy 2:1-3
1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour


America Has Chosen a President

Posted: Wednesday, November 05, 2008 at 5:04 am ET

The election of Sen. Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States came as a bang, not a whimper. The tremors had been perceptible for days, maybe even weeks. On Tuesday, America experienced nothing less than a political and cultural earthquake.The margin of victory for the Democratic ticket was clear. Americans voted in record numbers and with tangible enthusiasm. By the end of the day, it was clear that Barack Obama would be elected with a majority of the popular vote and a near landslide in the Electoral College. When President-Elect Obama greeted the throngs of his supporters in Chicago's Grant Park, he basked in the glory of electoral energy.For many of us, the end of the night brought disappointment. In this case, the disappointment is compounded by the sense that the issues that did not allow us to support Sen. Obama are matters of life and death -- not just political issues of heated debate. Furthermore, the margin of victory and sense of a shift in the political landscape point to greater disappointments ahead. We all knew that so much was at stake.For others, the night was magical and momentous. Young and old cried tears of amazement and victory as America elected its first African-American President -- and elected him overwhelmingly. Just forty years after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, an African-American stood to claim victory as President-Elect of the nation. As Sen. Obama assured the crowd in Chicago and the watching nation, "We will get there. We will get there." No one hearing those words could fail to hear the refrain of plaintive words spoken in Memphis four decades ago. President-Elect Obama would stand upon the mountaintop that Dr. King had foreseen.That victory is a hallmark moment in history for all Americans -- not just for those who voted for Sen. Obama. As a nation, we will never think of ourselves the same way again. Americans rich and poor, black and white, old and young, will look to an African-American man and know him as President of the United States. The President. The only President. The elected President. Our President.Every American should be moved by the sight of young African-Americans who -- for the first time -- now believe that they have a purchase in American democracy. Old men and old women, grandsons and granddaughters of slaves and slaveholders, will look to an African-American as President.Regardless of politics, could anyone remain unmoved by the sight of Jesse Jackson crying alone amidst the crowd in Chicago? This dimension of Election Day transcends politics and touches the heart of the American people.Yet, the issues and the politics remain. Given the scale of the Democratic victory, the political landscape will be completely reshaped. The fight for the dignity and sanctity of unborn human beings has been set back by a great loss, and by the election of a President who has announced his intention to sign the Freedom of Choice Act into law. The struggle to protect marriage against its destruction by redefinition is now complicated by the election of a President who has declared his aim to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act. On issue after issue, we face a longer, harder, and more protracted struggle than ever before.Still, we must press on as advocates for the unborn, for the elderly, for the infirm, and for the vulnerable. We must redouble our efforts to defend marriage and the integrity of the family. We must be vigilant to protect religious liberty and the freedom of the pulpit. We face awesome battles ahead.At the same time, we must be honest and recognize that the political maps are being redrawn before our eyes. Will the Republican Party decide that conservative Christians are just too troublesome for the party and see the pro-life movement as a liability? There is the real danger that the Republicans, stung by this defeat, will adopt a libertarian approach to divisive moral issues and show conservative Christians the door.Others will declare these struggles over, arguing that the election of Sen. Obama means that Americans in general -- and many younger Evangelicals in particular -- are ready to "move on" to other issues. This is no time for surrender or the abandonment of our core principles. We face a much harder struggle ahead, but we have no right to abandon the struggle.We should look for opportunities to work with the new President and his administration where we can. We must hope that he will lead and govern as the bridge-builder he claimed to be in his campaign. We must confront and oppose the Obama administration where conscience demands, but work together where conscience allows.Evangelical Christians face another challenge with the election of Sen. Obama, and a failure to rise to this challenge will bring disrepute upon the Gospel, as well as upon ourselves. There must be absolutely no denial of the legitimacy of President-Elect Obama's election and no failure to accord this new President the respect and honor due to anyone elected to that high office. Failure in this responsibility is disobedience to a clear biblical command.Beyond this, we must commit ourselves to pray for this new President, for his wife and family, for his administration, and for the nation. We are commanded to pray for rulers, and this new President faces challenges that are not only daunting but potentially disastrous. May God grant him wisdom. He and his family will face new challenges and the pressures of this office. May God protect them, give them joy in their family life, and hold them close together.We must pray that God will protect this nation even as the new President settles into his role as Commander in Chief, and that God will grant peace as he leads the nation through times of trial and international conflict and tension.We must pray that God would change President-Elect Obama's mind and heart on issues of our crucial concern. May God change his heart and open his eyes to see abortion as the murder of the innocent unborn, to see marriage as an institution to be defended, and to see a host of issues in a new light. We must pray this from this day until the day he leaves office. God is sovereign, after all.Without doubt, we face hard days ahead. Realistically, we must expect to be frustrated and disappointed. We may find ourselves to be defeated and discouraged. We must keep ever in mind that it is God who raises up nations and pulls them down, and who judges both nations and rulers. We must not act or think as unbelievers, or as those who do not trust God.America has chosen a President. President-Elect Barack Obama is that choice, and he faces a breathtaking array of challenges and choices in days ahead. This is the time for Christians to begin praying in earnest for our new President. There is no time to lose.

I don't get to be cool on this one. (faith-lift Friday 10/17/08)

Yesterday while reading though my bloglines I stopped over at Meyers On the Hood where I read THIS POST.
In her post she linked us over to this in her words great post

So I went over to read it and she was right.. it was a great post.

Now my kids friends are always telling them how cool there mom is.. but it looks like I"m not going to be Cool when it comes to this, but I am MORE then Ok not being cool on this MORE THEN happy to be totally UNCOOL.

And for my Faith-Lift Friday post today I leave you these verses

Proverbs 3:3-8

3 Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart:
4 So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man.
5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
7 Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.
8 It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.

Faith-Lift Friday(10/10/08)

John16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

The Bible study I did this week had to do with peace and the things that jumped out at me, I and served as a great reminder were these.

#1 . My freedom and fullness of joy has nothing to do with anyone in this realm. My comfort and peace rests with the One who holds everything in His hands.

#2"Have you noticed that when you pray for patience you'll have lots of opportunities to practice being patient? If we are concentrating on living in peace (with all men, women, children, relatives, co-workers, drivers, and other believers) we need to be prepared for the inevitable onslaught of less-than-peaceful circumstances. Get ready for strife! " (written by Nancy, Roost Bible study spring 2008)

#3 We are in battle, we are always in Battle. ". The question is whether we are engaging our enemy or succumbing to defeat"

#4 is the good news we have been made conquerors already in all things.

Romans 8:37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

Faith-Lift Friday(10/3/08)

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18


Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Faith_Lift Friday(God is so Good)

Sometimes I just stand in amazement of how the Lord works. Once again, here I sat on a Thursday night.. I was wondering what I should write about for my faith-lift Friday post.. and since nothing was really being laid on my heart, I said in my head.. forget it, I just wont post one this week, I was about ready to turn off the computer and go watch Greys when I thought i would check my blog comments and I found a comment from Melanie on my Leave It There post.. which got me thinking of how the Lord works. How God uses circumstances in one persons life to be blessings to another..

I have seen this many times this week.. Starting with my post last Friday.. I was worried sick, a lady in TX who I had only meet once while visiting with my sister, wrote a bible study MONTHS ago.. I'm behind on the study.. but God knew I was behind and he USED that bible study I was behind on to talk to me JUST WHEN I NEEDED IT.. I write my faith lift post.. My sister in TX reads it that Friday after I wrote it.. and shares it with the lady who wrote it.. God uses that to encourages her when she was having a day when she really needed it.. WOW!!! God is good..

Then later in the week, when worry starts to kick back in and I gave room to it for a minute.. God lays on my heart the song Leave it there.. I post about that.. and God uses that too. GOD is Good.

Then there was last night.. When I went to spend time in Gods word I thought about doing the next bible study I'm on with The Roost bible study(which would have been lesson 15) but for reasons I didn't know at that time.. God lead me away from that just to do a small devotional instead..

Ok bear with me.. I need to give a little update on DH's job

On Wednesday DH's company did lay offs.. DH made it and got to keep his job, instead of going down to 32 hours a week, they are going to work 4 days a week 10 hours a day.. There is alot more.. to this.. things don't look good for the long run.. Praise God we have an income now.. but they told the people they laid off, they will not be coming back, they had a supervisor take an early retirement.. and the future of the company doesn't look bright.. BUT last night God gave me perfect peace.. I slept like a baby.. and this morning(Thursday morning) I woke up for the 1st time not feeling sick from nerves. I really didn't give this matter any thought at all today.. I was just so Thankful for God providing our needs for this week and not worrying at all about what the weeks ahead might look like.

Then this evening I get a phone call from my dad, who out of love and concern.. wanted to let me know that given everything going on at DH's company.. that he didn't think DH would have a job come 2009 and that the plant will close it's door.. I tell ya I hung up the phone and the knot came right into the pit of my stomach and the fear started to set in.. God popped a verse right into my head.

Matthew6:34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.

I thanked God and went on with the rest of my evening, with a fear keep popping into my head every so often.. that I would have to force myself not to dwell on.

Then DH left for work, the kids went to bed and it was my time to get away with God.. and I wanted to get right back with the Roost Bible study.. Lesson #15..

There was God again..Right there talking right to me.. Just like he was last Thursday night when I opened lesson 13..

ONLY this week.. in big bold print.

Be not afraid

Right there.. just a hour or so after my talk with my dad when the fear kept creeping in.. God is telling me BE NOT AFRAID

I tell you, We have an amazing God.. Last night I almost opened this lesson to do it, but God lead me in a different direction.. He knew that tonight at that very moment I would need to know that He says.. Be not afraid. God is so Good.

I don't want to keep copying Nancy's work but There were just some stuff in Lesson #15 that just touched me and spoke to me so much I really do feel lead to share them

"Life is precarious, but God's plan is working out perfectly. We may be surprised by trials, traumatic events, and temptations, but God isn't. He has promised us that all things are for our good and His glory.
Don't forget, God is good. Always good.
Remember this. Write this fact on your heart. Tell yourself continuously, especially when life throws you a curve.
Circumstances change, God doesn't. He is the same today as He was yesterday and will be forever (Hebrews 13:8). The real question is whether or not we truly believe His goodness and His sovereignty in our situations."(written by Nancy in the Roost spring bible study lesson #15)

and the other thing God really spoke to me though was this.

"While fear is an emotional response to threat or danger, we have to guard against indulging ourselves and inadvertently falling prey to its power. Unless we take our thoughts captive our sin can spiral out of control and we can "create" fears from our "what ifs." Our sinful imaginations become the kindling for a fire that eventually consumes and controls us.
Fear is a thief. It robs us of the present and steals our future. Fear paralyzes us with the "possibilities" of the "what ifs" in life. Living under a spirit of fear is debilitating, discouraging and dishonoring to God. However, there is great news. God has not given us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, and love, and a sound mind."(written by Nancy in the Roost spring bible study lesson #15)

WOW WOW and WOW...

Amazing.. The way the Lord works. how he uses circumstances in our life to bring us closer to him, to teach us, to grow us. and then the way he ties all things together, when what is happening in ones persons life to help another person or to encourage another person..

Or how even something I looked at as sort of being wrong.. you know falling way behind in a bible study, was all part of his perfect plan for my life. God knew just when I would need these lessons even if I didn't have a clue at the time..

I know I said it before.. But GOD IS SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO GOOD.

Faith-Lift Friday(9/19/08) and prayer request

I had thought about not doing a faith lift post this week.. Well really I thought about not posting at all, I just couldn't get into the whole blogging thing.. fear and pride was keeping me from being able to do much of anything except worry myself sick to the point of really becoming ill.

DH got news this week that his company was going to have to make some sort of cost cuts to keep running As the week went by the news just kept coming in.. and Last night before I went to bed, DH called from work to give me the wonderful news that starting this week they were cutting every ones hours to a 32 hour work week..
I took this right to God in prayer, I laid it at his feet.. but I forgot to let go.
I could hardly sleep last night(Wednesday night).. I kept praying for God peace but then refusing to take it and kept letting my mind keep wondering as to how on earth will we make the house payment, keep our lights on, have gas to heat the house.. food for the kids to eat, how will we make it on just a portion of DH pay when we were just getting by with what he did bring home..
I knew worrying was wrong.. but kept justifying it, I mean who wouldn't worry about this stuff.. by morning time on Thursday I was so worked up that I could hardly get the kids to school I ended up in the bathroom puking from making myself sick with fear. I got a little better at leaving this at Gods feet as the day went on and I got busy doing the mother thing and taking care of the kids and going to volleyball games.. but when the kids went to bed I found myself sitting down and crying over all of this..
I stopped myself again and turned it back over to God again.. and I got up and walked over to my computer to do lesson #13 in the bible study I started in the spring (started in the spring but fell behind and started getting back to it the last few weeks.) I opened up the page on the computer for lesson #13 and the very 1st thing in big bold print just hit me like a ton of bricks.
Be anxious for nothing
WOW Does God know how to get our attentions or what.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication,
with thanksgiving, present your request to God.
Philippians 4:6

This was the verse under the big bold print. What do you think.. was God trying to tell me something ?

I continued to read the lesson and towards the end there was a reminder that as children of God we have"no business being uneasy, concerned, worried, upset, nervous, disturbed, tense, distressed, agitated, edgy or apprehensive. Being ill at ease, perturbed, fretful, troubled or overwrought is not part of His plan. None of these attitudes glorify God. "(copied from the Roost spring 08 bible study)

Talk about God speaking right to me.. sort of like a kick in the seat saying.. to me to get my act together..

It went on to say "Anxiety is rooted in pride and God hates both."(also copied from the Roost spring 08 bible study)

God spoke to me more.. when I read the part that said something like how dishonoring it was to refuse to Cast our Cares on God. and how when we pridefully cling to our troubles we are unable to receive His peace.

Then it asked this "What if the stressful situations, troubles, and trials were nothing other than an invitation to experience peace? What if God wants us to see Him, to experience His life, and to know Him more intimately through every challenge?"(copied from the Roost Spring 08 bible study)

If God is in control, what do I have to fear?? NOTHING.. NOTHING at all.. and GOD IS IN CONTROL..

I do not know what Gods plans are in this new trial. I don't know where we will be when it is over.. BUT I do know God is in Control and in that I will trust and rest.

I want to pray that God does something so DH job is back at his 40 plus hours and everything will be normal.. BUT I think I need to pray that God does His will, who knows maybe he has bigger better things ahead for us, that we need to go though this to get to that.

Anxiety and worry is a the opposite of trusting in God and both are sin.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication,
with thanksgiving, present your request to God.
Philippians 4:6

God is our refuge and strength,
A very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed,
And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.
Psalm 46:1,2

Oh how I Thank God, for leading me to this tonight and for telling me just what I needed to hear.. He is such a great God.. I have a peace that only God can bring and I know I'll be able to sleep tonight, Resting in Him.. Ummmm that is if I step away from the computer and find my way into the bed seeing how it is now after 1am Friday morning.. :)

Please continue to pray for the Duncan family and pray Gods will for the situation we find our self in.

Faith-Lift Friday(9/12/08)

Standing on the Promises of God

Standing on the promises of Christ my King,
Through eternal ages let His praises ring
Glory in the highest, I will shout and sing,
Standing on the promises of God.


Standing on the promises that cannot fail,
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,
By the living Word of God I shall prevail,
Standing on the promises of God.


Standing on the promises of Christ the Lord,
Bound to Him eternally by love’s strong cord,
Overcoming daily with the Spirit’s sword,
Standing on the promises of God.

Standing on the promises I cannot fall,
Listening every moment to the Spirit’s call
Resting in my Savior as my all in all,
Standing on the promises of God.

Standing, standing,
Standing on the promises of God my Savior;
Standing, standing,
I’m standing on the promises of God.

There are so many ways I could go with this post.. I mean the Promises of God are endless, but even better then that the Promises of God are True and we can test each one and find them never failing.

One Promise you can find in John 14:1-3
1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.
2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

In Hebrew 13:5 God promises to never leave us or forsake us
Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

and a few more Promises.
Matthew 11:28-30
28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

All of these promises of God has been placed upon my heart this week, and the line in the song I have bigger then the rest has been running though my heart and head.

Resting in my Savior as my all in all..

Last week I wrote about the young man just 18 years old who was hit by a drunk driver and passed away.. His mother Mama Lilly has wrote a few beautiful post about her son. while reading them that line went though my head again, Resting in my Savior as my all in all.
Please keep Mama Lilly and her family in your prayers.

Faith-Lift Friday(9/4/08)

This afternoon(Thursday 9/4/08) I opened up the News Paper and saw that a young man from my community, just 18 years old, just out of high school and just has started college was killed by a drunk hit and run driver. Then I read a bit more and saw I sort of the know the family.. His mother is a fellow blogger, so are his aunts. I know one of his aunts though my MOPS group, and my DD Princess is friends with his younger brother. I had never meet this young man, but had heard many many great things about him from another blogger and friend of mine who is a member at the church his father pastor. ..

My heart broke when I read of this.. and the rest of the afternoon and evening.. God has just been laying I. Thessalonians 4:13-18 on my heart.

So for my Faith-Lift Friday post for tomorrow(Friday) I wanted share it.

I. Thessalonians 4:13-18

13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.

15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:

17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

Faith-Lift Friday(July 11, 2008)

I read this awhile back and wanted to share it here. It is from Oswald Chambers My Utmost For His Highest.

One of God’s Great "Don’ts"

Fret not thyself, it tendeth only to evil doing —Psalm 37:8

Fretting means getting ourselves "out of joint" mentally or spiritually. It is one thing to say, "Do not fret," but something very different to have such a nature that you find yourself unable to fret. It’s easy to say, "Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him" ( Psalm 37:7 Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. ) until our own little world is turned upside down and we are forced to live in confusion and agony like so many other people. Is it possible to "rest in the Lord" then? If this "Do not" doesn’t work there, then it will not work anywhere. This "Do not" must work during our days of difficulty and uncertainty, as well as our peaceful days, or it will never work. And if it will not work in your particular case, it will not work for anyone else. Resting in the Lord is not dependent on your external circumstances at all, but on your relationship with God Himself.

Worrying always results in sin. We tend to think that a little anxiety and worry are simply an indication of how wise we really are, yet it is actually a much better indication of just how wicked we are. Fretting rises from our determination to have our own way. Our Lord never worried and was never anxious, because His purpose was never to accomplish His own plans but to fulfill God’s plans. Fretting is wickedness for a child of God.

Have you been propping up that foolish soul of yours with the idea that your circumstances are too much for God to handle? Set all your opinions and speculations aside and "abide under the shadow of the Almighty" ( Psalm 91:1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. ). Deliberately tell God that you will not fret about whatever concerns you. All our fretting and worrying is caused by planning without God.

For More Faith-lift Friday visit Taking The Challenge

Faith-Lift Friday (June 29, 2008)

When I was younger like 9 years old I started going to church summer camp, not just the longer VBS day camps that churches have today as there vacation Bible schools.. but the sleep away summer camp sort of camp.. We had all the fun stuff one would think of when you think of summer camp but we also learned alot about God at camp.. We had morning and evening chapel, along with cabin devotions and a time set aside for personal devotions.

Since our summer camp was located on an Island of one of our great lakes, alot of times for cabin devotions and for our personal time with God we would go find ourselves a nice spot on the rocks next to the water..

I went to this camp from the time I was 9 years old till I was 17 years old every summer for a week. Then the summer of 1992 I spent the whole summer there on staff.

I grew in Christ and felt so close with my Lord during those years spent at camp and on those rocks.. Now I can't help but see the rocks and the shoreline and not think of God. Not only for his beautiful handy work of the lake and shorelines.. but for the work he has done in my life.. It like seeing those rocks and water always sets my heart and mind in a state of prayer and meditation on God.

We spent time on the rock of this great lake during our camping trip last week and I took some time to sit by the water and do my devotions and also some time to just be still and know God.

During this time my mind kept going to a few verses.

Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Colossians 3:1-2 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

By thinking of things that are honest, just, pure etc. and by setting our minds on things above and not on the things of this world. We can renew our minds and be transformed, so when the troubles of this life comes are way we can be at perfect peace. The conflicts of this life can be raging around us like a bad storm out on the lake, but we can be calm, our souls can be at rest and hidden from anything other then peace and love. What an amazing thing.. What an Amazing God. Thank you Jesus.

TURN YOUR EYES UPON JESUS

O soul, are you weary and troubled?

No light in the darkness you see?

There’s a light for a look at the Savior,

And life more abundant and free!

Turn your eyes upon Jesus,

Look full in His wonderful face,

And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,

In the light of His glory and grace.

Through death into life everlasting

He passed, and we follow Him there;

Over us sin no more hath dominion—

For more than conquerors we are!

Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.

His Word shall not fail you—He promised;

Believe Him, and all will be well:

Then go to a world that is dying,

His perfect salvation to tell!

Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.

(all pictures in this post was taken by me on day 3 of our camping trip at the lake which I'll be posting about sometime this weekend)

For More Faith-lift Friday visit Taking The Challenge

Faith-Lift Friday(June 6, 2008)

Colossians 4:1-6

1Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven.

2 Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;
3 Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:
4 That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.
5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.
6 Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

Yesterday I got an email from my sister, which she got from her bible study group leader. She thought I would enjoy it and she was correct, So I wanted to share it with all of you.

Here is the email:

Several of you asked for this: It is a side note in my bible called Seasoned with salt (referencing Col. 4:5-6).

Imagine you are getting out the ingredients to bake a batch of cookies, but you have unknowingly mixed up the salt and sugar. You end up putting in a dash of sugar and a cup of salt. Now picture a little child taking a big bite of one of those cookes. How long will it take the child to realize something is wrong? Do you think he or she will ask for another cookie? Of course not!

The art of seasoning is a matter of balance. Just enough salt to notice, but not too much to overwhelm. Salt creates thirst, a desire for more.

As Christians, we sprinkle the salt of God's grace and gospel into our daily conversations. We don't saturate every conversation in a way that drives others away. The artful seasoning of God's loving grace into our conversation will create a thirst, a desire in the lives of others. They will long to know more of Jesus.

Psalms 188: 1-24
1 O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: because his mercy endureth for ever.
2 Let Israel now say, that his mercy endureth for ever.
3 Let the house of Aaron now say, that his mercy endureth for ever.
4 Let them now that fear the LORD say, that his mercy endureth for ever.
5 I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place.
6 The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?7 The LORD taketh my part with them that help me: therefore shall I see my desire upon them that hate me.
8 It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.
9 It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes.
10 All nations compassed me about: but in the name of the LORD will I destroy them.
11 They compassed me about; yea, they compassed me about: but in the name of the LORD I will destroy them.
12 They compassed me about like bees: they are quenched as the fire of thorns: for in the name of the LORD I will destroy them.
13 Thou hast thrust sore at me that I might fall: but the LORD helped me.
14 The LORD is my strength and song, and is become my salvation.
15 The voice of rejoicing and salvation is in the tabernacles of the righteous: the right hand of the LORD doeth valiantly.
16 The right hand of the LORD is exalted: the right hand of the LORD doeth valiantly.
17 I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD.
18 The LORD hath chastened me sore: but he hath not given me over unto death.
19 Open to me the gates of righteousness: I will go into them, and I will praise the LORD:
20 This gate of the LORD, into which the righteous shall enter.
21 I will praise thee: for thou hast heard me, and art become my salvation.
22 The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner.
23 This is the LORD's doing; it is marvellous in our eyes.
24 This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.

Faith-Lift Friday(May 23, 2008)

This morning before school when the kids were listing to their Keys for Kids, for May 23, 2008 These were the verses that were read.

1 John 2:15-17

15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

This brought back to mind the verses I read in my Bible study this week.

Galatians 5: 16-26
16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.
18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,

20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,

21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

Faith-Lift Friday(5/9/08)

Encourage others and yourself! Share a scripture, quote, devotional, lyrics, or anything that has blessed you and strengthened you in your faith.

A few weeks back in my bible study we studied about being content.

Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

While the whole lesson was wonderful and you can read it here Be Content - Lesson Two - March 28, 08

The application I thought was just so perfect and wanted to share it all with you. So here it is.

APPLICATION

Pay attention this week to your desires. Take note of the “triggers” or “influences” (external and internal) that cause you to seek satisfaction in anything or anyone other than God. What captures your attention and lures you into its embrace, or calls unceasingly to your soul? Are there things you easily submit to that might not be God's best for you? What are the “no contest” desires that have become ingrained and acceptable patterns of behavior? Do these desires rival God's place on the throne of your heart? Dig deep and discover the root of your happiness and your dissatisfaction. Is your contentment linked to circumstances, the behaviors of others, your own ideas about life, or having your own way?

Most of all, spend time doing business with God. Haul every bit of discouragement, disappointment, unmet expectations, each devastated dream, and all of your unfulfilled desires out of the dark recesses of your heart and into the light of God's glory. Examine the things you feel entitled to, frustrated about, or are just plain hurt and angry over. Why are you dissatisfied?

Discontentment is sin. Being discontented implies that God is not enough. Glory, what more is there besides God? He is love, light, immortal, eternal, unchanging, perfect, holy, just, true, good, great, faithful, merciful, upright, righteous, and that is just for starters! He alone is wise.
Let's get honest and ask ourselves the real question. “Do I really believe that God can fully satisfy me?”

Maybe our challenge is actually unbelief. Is it possible that we know all about God yet do not know Him intimately? We may have consumed mass amounts of information about God,

memorized His truths, done every Bible Study we could, attended church all of our lives, and still not have an authentic, deeply fulfilling relationship with Him. When was the last time you were thrilled by God? If we know God intimately we will love Him and, consequently, strive to obey Him. Do you long to please Him in all that you do and think? Loving God leads to a walk of radical obedience (John14:21, 23).

How do your desires align with God's Word? Perhaps a sister in Christ could help you wade through the rubble and point you to His truth. If you need help, ask. God promises grace to those who humble themselves. Besides, when we confess our sins to one another, healing can occur. (James 5:16) And healing means change. Can you say “Hallelujah!”?

Let's cry out for God to do a deep work in our hearts. Ask Him to reveal any idols we may have crafted to fulfill our longings that only He can satisfy. Pray for God to show us what we settle for by failing to press in to know Him intimately, or what we are substituting for an authentic encounter with God.

Faith-Lift Friday 5/2/08

Encourage others and yourself! Share a scripture, quote, devotional, lyrics, or anything that has blessed you and strengthened you in your faith.

1 John 4:19

We love him, because he first loved us.

Psalms 116:1

I love the LORD, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications.

All last night while trying to fall asleep and this morning when I woke up This song was playing over and over in my head. So I thought today for Faith-Lift Friday I would share it.

My Jesus, I Love Thee

by Willian R Feartherston

My Jesus, I love thee,

I know thou art Mine.

For Thee all the follies

of sin I resign

My gracious Redeemer,

My Savior art thou

If ever I love Thee,

my Jesus, tis now.

I love Thee because,

Thou hast first loved me

And purchased my pardon

on Calvary's tree

I love Thee for wearing

the thorns on they brow

If ever I love Thee

my Jesus tis now

I'll love Thee in life,

I will love Thee in death.

And praise Thee as long

as Thou lendest me breath

And say when the death dew

lies cold on my brow

If ever I love Thee

my Jesus tis now

In mansions of glory

and endless delight

I'll ever adore Thee

in heaven so bright

I'll sing with the glittering

crown on my brow

If ever I love Thee

my Jesus tis now.

To read others who are writing Faith-Lift Friday post this week, head over to Taking The Challenge

Faith-Lift Friday (4/25/08)

Encourage others and yourself! Share a scripture, quote, devotional, lyrics, or anything that has blessed you and strengthened you in your faith.

Be of Good Cheer

John 16:33

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

Isn't it wonderful to know that even in tribulation we can Be Of Good Cheer. Why, because God has overcome the world.. what peace we can rest in knowing this.

To read others who are writing Faith-Lift Friday post this week, head over to Taking The Challenge

Faith-Lift Friday (4/4/08)

Encourage others and yourself! Share a scripture, quote, devotional, lyrics, or anything that has blessed you and strengthened you in your faith.

Earlier this week when I was reading I Peter a few verses jumped at at me and I have been reading them alot this week. So I thought I would share them with you today.

I Peter 5:6-11
5:6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:
5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
5:9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
5:10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.
5:11 To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

For More Faith-lift Friday visit Taking The Challenge

Faith-Lift Friday(Good Friday 08)

Matthew 27:11-66

11 And Jesus stood before the governor: and the governor asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And Jesus said unto him, Thou sayest.
12 And when he was accused of the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing.
13 Then said Pilate unto him, Hearest thou not how many things they witness against thee?
14 And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly. 15 Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they would.
16 And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas.
17 Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ?
18 For he knew that for envy they had delivered him.
19 When he was set down on the judgment seat, his wife sent unto him, saying, Have thou nothing to do with that just man: for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of him.
20 But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus.
21 The governor answered and said unto them, Whether of the twain will ye that I release unto you? They said, Barabbas.
22 Pilate saith unto them, What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ? They all say unto him, Let him be crucified.
23 And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out the more, saying, Let him be crucified.
24 When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it.

25 Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children.

26 Then released he Barabbas unto them: and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified.
27 Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall, and gathered unto him the whole band of soldiers.
28 And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe.
29 And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews!
30 And they spit upon him, and took the reed, and smote him on the head.
31 And after that they had mocked him, they took the robe off from him, and put his own raiment on him, and led him away to crucify him.
32 And as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name: him they compelled to bear his cross.
33 And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull, 34 They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink.
35 And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.
36 And sitting down they watched him there;
37 And set up over his head his accusation written, THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS. 38 Then were there two thieves crucified with him, one on the right hand, and another on the left.
39 And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads,
40 And saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.
41 Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes and elders, said,
42 He saved others; himself he cannot save. If he be the King of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him.
43 He trusted in God; let him deliver him now, if he will have him: for he said, I am the Son of God.
44 The thieves also, which were crucified with him, cast the same in his teeth.
45 Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour.
46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?
47 Some of them that stood there, when they heard that, said, This man calleth for Elias.
48 And straightway one of them ran, and took a spunge, and filled it with vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink.
49 The rest said, Let be, let us see whether Elias will come to save him.
50 Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost.
51 And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent;
52 And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose,
53 And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many.
54 Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God.
55 And many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him:
56 Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedees children.
57 When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple:
58 He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered.
59 And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth,
60 And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed.
61 And there was Mary Magdalene, and the other Mary, sitting over against the sepulchre.
62 Now the next day, that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate,
63 Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again.
64 Command therefore that the sepulchre be made sure until the third day, lest his disciples come by night, and steal him away, and say unto the people, He is risen from the dead: so the last error shall be worse than the first.
65 Pilate said unto them, Ye have a watch: go your way, make it as sure as ye can.
66 So they went, and made the sepulchre sure, sealing the stone, and setting a watch.

Faith-Life Friday(3/14/08)

Encourage others and yourself! Share a scripture, quote, devotional, lyrics, or anything that has blessed you and strengthened you in your faith.

The way God works in my life, His timing, His Love.. It just all amazes me.. I know He works in our life, I know he has a plan for us and He works that Plan in His Time.. but every time I see God working in my life, I still just have to take a deep breath and stand in amazement, of What a wonderful All powerful, All Knowing God we have. God is so good.

I was gone this evening out with my oldest and my grandmother, We didn't get home till late(well late for a mom with young children on a school night LOL) As I walked in the door my thoughts were on getting DH off to work, the kids to bed and then What will I write on my blog for my Faith-Lift Friday post.. Normally though my weekly Bible reading God will lay a verse or something on my heart to share.. and this week I just never had anything jump out at me, well not anything that I felt lead to post for the Faith-Lift post. Then my thoughts went right back to getting DH up and out the door because I was late we were rushing around.. He went and got the mails.. bills, bills bills and more bills..

In the last week it seemed that the stress of this life had just been adding up.. Starting last Thursday when DH company did a big layoff and told the workers that was still there that come June if things don't pick up they will have to lay off more people and go down to 2 shifts instead of 3. That alone is enough to stress a person.. Then Add to that the fact that gas went up again and it is costing about $120 a week in gas just for DH to make it to work.. DH said to me.. if Gas hits $4 or more I just don't know what we are going to do..

After he left for work I sat down with that stack of bills that just came out of our mailbox mixed in there was a envelope card shaped and sort of thick. I saw who it was from, a older lady who was friends with DH's grandmother when she was alive, and who attends church with my IL's. Not that I was trying to be rude but I tossed it aside, I didn't have time to sit and read a big thick letter at that moment.. I had to figure out where to get the money to pay all these bills steering me in the face. I open up one after the other.. so much here so much there..

Things have been really tight since DH was sick and off work without pay for those 2 months back in the fall . Sure we got our income tax check in, but by the time we paid back the people who so lovingly loaned us money to live on those 2 months and got caught up on the things we let get behind during that time and the oldest need braces(no really she does and they are getting put on April 1) That check is gone and then some. So I sat there feeling a bit sick about all of these things.. I opened the last bill and sorted them all out.. and there sat this letter..

Feeling sort of down, I picked up the letter on the back of the envelope was written. "Those Who Let God Provide Be Satisfied" I opened it up and there was a card along with a letter. The card read on the front "You're on my heart...." Inside "And in my prayers." with Romans 15:13 printed at the bottom. " Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost."

Hand written inside was written this " Special to Jesus, Special to me. You will be provided for-Why? God Knows your needs. His timing always right and on time. He has a future for you two. Love Sis. Marge + Br. Don"

That alone was enough to make me stop and turn this all over to God.. It just touched my heart so much.. But I still hadn't read the letter so I unfolded the 4 pages and was blessed even more.. So much so that God laid it on my heart to share this letter with all of you tonight.(or early Friday morning as the case maybe)

Here is the letter.

She had her good morning greeting to me and DH and then went on to say

"Before my day is started God is telling me to sit down and drop in to chat with you two. The Lord has made this day "Give us this day-our Daily (food) Bread". God always provides for our needs. We all sometimes get all involved in this 21st Century of Provisions. God Knows our needs & He even supplies MORE!! As Bible says the Righteous will never be forsaken- His Promises are sure & un removable! All we need to do is put our faith into Action- feet to our faith. He Saved us , now it is up to us to be Obedient to Him. When we aren't obedient our faith is, dead faith, in any Spiritual area. Some Don't Read there Bibles, don't pray(enough) Saved and don't come forward or don't even attend church- How Sad!

Sometimes Satan works in so many ways, He will get you depressed, anxious, worried. Anyways Except Peace, Joy, contentment. We are to look to Him. one day at a time!! Remember the birds, the flowers, Ever read about the Ravens...

We are to trust God, His Kingdom, His Righteousness, Nothing is about us!!! It's all about me, some think today. "Me-centric" me me me self. He feed the sparrows can't he feed and give us our needs. YES!!!!

He works in many ways to get to those in need. Sent one widow woman one time to feed those in need. Sent ravens with food, People can be the Ravens He sends :)

We all need to trust God!! Walmart, Target Fords, can't give us our provisions, can't give us contentment.. God says "be anxious for nothing" Why should we even start to worry about tomorrow.. He is already There!! He already knows yours needs :) :) He will Provide.. You two can't see the future.. HE Knows the Past, present, future!! Thank you Lord :) He knows exactly what you need! We all have trials in this life on earth. Why do we? Because He wants our attention. He provides, He heals because of the Glory He wants us to give Him. To Thank Him :)

Why Me? some will say, Well why not me? Who do we think we are. Look at Jesus's life(He did for you as if you were only one) and look at all the apostiles, what they went through and what did they say? "Count it all Joy"

God wants us to Obey Him, He has to be #1 in our life. People die, we can't find happiness in man, Happiness is in the Lord :)

When we worry show we are not trusting in HIM, because if we were we wouldn't be worrying! Faith and worry do not go together.

It really takes being committed to God and his Written Word. Reading and not applying it doesn't do any good.......

When one belongs to Him, we don't need to help Him do His Job. He will take care of us, correct us, keep us, "saved"

We each have a job to do as His children. Be thankful we can. .....

At this point of the letter she goes on talking about the kids and DH and the IL's and attached a gift card to Cracker Barrel for DH and I to go out and leave the kids with Grandma(my IL's is who she was referring to.)

Talk about TIMING... There are no accidents in the life of a Christian.. God plans it all.. We haven't seen or talked to this dear lady since September when DH was in the hospital and she came to visit.. She didn't know what was going on in our lives.. She just knew what God had laid on her heart to write to us that day.. and She didn't know it would get to me the same day as a pile of bills and didn't know I would open and read it when I did.. BUT GOD DID...

so I say thank you not only to this lady for her obedience to God, but to my wonderful loving Lord and Savior Jesus.. I love you so much Dear Lord.

Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

For More Faith-lift Friday visit Taking The Challenge

and if my sister or my BIL is out there reading.. I'm sorry I forgot to call to wish BIL a happy birthday.. I meant to call right before I sat down with this letter and then read it and started posting and forgot to call and now seeing how it is 12:40AM it is too late.. so I'll have to send belated I'm a bad sister in law birthday wishes tomorrow(today Friday)..