I've been praying a lot lately... not saying that I didn't pray as much before, but I guess it just seems like it. One of the things I talked to God about was this blog. I've been asking Him to show me which way I'm supposed to go, what I'm supposed to do. Whatever His reasons may be, I can't say, but I think He's telling me to go in a different direction. This blog has helped me immensely, but I also believe it has served its purpose in a sense. That being said, I'm not going to give up writing. If God speaks to me, I will write down what He says. I want the words to be of Him, not of me. Sometimes my words didn't come easy; they felt forced. I don't want this blog to be like that. I don't want to write for the sake of filling a daily "requirement." I want to write if and when God tells me to write. I am still learning so much about His Word, and I don't want to get so far into writing that I misinterpret or miss the point of a verse or a chapter. That wasn't the intent of this blog. I started it to have a new way of exploring God's Word and applying it to my life, and it worked... but He has brought other inspirations into my life that I feel I should pursue. I need to spend more time reading God's Word and asking questions about it before I attempt to interpret or even teach (if God wills it). As I said before, I'm not giving up on writing, especially about God... I'm just leaving it to God to decide when and what I should write. I've been planning on writing this post for ten days, but it wasn't until now that I had the words to finally say what I felt.
And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.
~Luke 11:9
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
~James 1:5
I wasn't sure what I was supposed to do, so I asked God. If you ask God in earnest what you are supposed to do, He will show you. I've found two verses that say so, and it wouldn't surprise me at all if there were more verses in the Bible that did. Yes, I know that I said that I was going to read more before I analyzed, but this is one thing I do understand. If what you ask is in earnest and of God, He will show you the answer in His time. Be patient and know that God just wants the best for His children. It's okay if you don't understand something right away. Just keep your heart and mind open to God and He will show you the answers when He knows you are ready for them. Just trust Him and stay on His path the best that you can, for God is forgiving and He loves all of us who seek Him out.
Lord, thank You for this day. Thank You for answering my prayers and showing me the way You want me to go. Thank You for my family, friends, and pets; please watch over them, bless them, and keep them safe, strong, happy, and healthy. Lord, thank You for all of the blessings You have given to me. I ask You please continue to bless me as You have. Please cleanse me of my sins and continue to guide me down Your path of righteousness. Lord, please watch over those who defend Your name and this country; please watch over them, bless them, and bring them home safe. Please also watch over their families and friends, and please comfort them in times of separation and/or loss. Please shine Your loving light on those who are misjudged, mistreated, misunderstood, lonely, confused, in need, sick, weak, scared, or in any way lacking faith in You. I ask that You please work through those who know You to bring those who may not closer to You. Lord, I know that every day with You is a good day, and every day I am closer to You. Whatever You have planned for me, I will gladly and graciously do no matter what because I love You with all my heart and all my soul and all my being and I always will forever and ever. Lord, please come into my heart and guide me to do Your will so that I may do what honors You. You are my one and only Lord and Savior and I will serve You all my days. You have brought me so far, and I know You shall always be with me in all that I do. I love You, Lord. In Jesus' precious name, Amen.
Love and God Bless,
M.C.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Day 95: Defense
In all honesty, I've felt a little stuck lately. Maybe it's because it's summer--things are more laid-back. Don't get me wrong, I like summer and I'm thankful for the decrease in work, but it's made me feel like I don't do much that's really worth while. Am I supposed to go out and search for something good to do or am I supposed to wait for God to bring something to me? It's difficult to know for sure. Lord, I humbly ask that You please reveal the next step in Your plan for me, whatever that may be. Only You know exactly what is right for me, and I certainly can't do this on my own. I just don't know enough--no being does but You.
The LORD hear thee in the day of trouble; the name of the God of Jacob defend thee;
Send thee help from the sanctuary, and strengthen thee out of Zion;
Remember all thy offerings, and accept thy burnt sacrifice; Selah.
Grant thee according to thine own heart, and fulfil all thy counsel.
We will rejoice in thy salvation, and in the name of our God we will set up our banners: the LORD fulfil all thy petitions.
Now know I that the LORD saveth his anointed; he will hear him from his holy heaven with the saving strength of his right hand.
Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.
They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, and stand upright.
Save, LORD: let the king hear us when we call.
~Psalm 20:1-9 (KJV)
God listens. He knows how we feel and what we think, and He understands our words regardless of what language(s) we speak. I've said it countless times before and I will say it again: God knows what is best for us. Even though we His children may know this, we still need to be wise enough to ask Him to show us the way we need to go at each turn in our lives. If we don't, we may start to think that we can attain the best on our own which is far from the truth. With God, we will always receive what is best for us no matter what because God can do anything. God lifts us up and sets us above all others even though we as sinners don't deserve it. But God loves us unconditionally. He is our only unfailing defense. He loves us so much that He gave up His one and only son, Jesus Christ, for all of our sakes. That's amazing. That's true love.
Lord, thank You so much for everything. Thank You for showing me the way down Your path. Thank You for all of those You have placed in my life. Please watch over my family, friends, and pets; I ask that You please bless them and keep them safe and strong, happy and healthy. Lord, please watch over the men and women who currently defend or have defended Your name and this country; please bless them and bring them home safely. Please watch over their families and friends and bless them with peace and strength in times of separation and/or loss. Lord, please watch over all those who need strength, defense, love, and guidance; please keep them safe and bless them with family members and/or friends whom You can work through to bring them to and keep them on Your path. Lord, please watch over those who are less fortunate, and may we be ever mindful of them so that they may be in our prayers and share our blessings with them. Lord, I ask that You please cleanse me of my sins and continue to guide me down Your path. I humbly ask that you please continue to reveal Your plan to me one step at a time so that I may continue to learn and grow in You, my Heavenly Father, and Your Son Jesus. Please guide my heart, Lord, and teach me how to share Your love with others. Lord, I love You with all of my heart and soul and I always will no matter what. I will follow You, Lord, forever and ever and I shall never let You go. In Jesus' precious name, Amen.
Love and God Bless,
M.C.
The LORD hear thee in the day of trouble; the name of the God of Jacob defend thee;
Send thee help from the sanctuary, and strengthen thee out of Zion;
Remember all thy offerings, and accept thy burnt sacrifice; Selah.
Grant thee according to thine own heart, and fulfil all thy counsel.
We will rejoice in thy salvation, and in the name of our God we will set up our banners: the LORD fulfil all thy petitions.
Now know I that the LORD saveth his anointed; he will hear him from his holy heaven with the saving strength of his right hand.
Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.
They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, and stand upright.
Save, LORD: let the king hear us when we call.
~Psalm 20:1-9 (KJV)
God listens. He knows how we feel and what we think, and He understands our words regardless of what language(s) we speak. I've said it countless times before and I will say it again: God knows what is best for us. Even though we His children may know this, we still need to be wise enough to ask Him to show us the way we need to go at each turn in our lives. If we don't, we may start to think that we can attain the best on our own which is far from the truth. With God, we will always receive what is best for us no matter what because God can do anything. God lifts us up and sets us above all others even though we as sinners don't deserve it. But God loves us unconditionally. He is our only unfailing defense. He loves us so much that He gave up His one and only son, Jesus Christ, for all of our sakes. That's amazing. That's true love.
Lord, thank You so much for everything. Thank You for showing me the way down Your path. Thank You for all of those You have placed in my life. Please watch over my family, friends, and pets; I ask that You please bless them and keep them safe and strong, happy and healthy. Lord, please watch over the men and women who currently defend or have defended Your name and this country; please bless them and bring them home safely. Please watch over their families and friends and bless them with peace and strength in times of separation and/or loss. Lord, please watch over all those who need strength, defense, love, and guidance; please keep them safe and bless them with family members and/or friends whom You can work through to bring them to and keep them on Your path. Lord, please watch over those who are less fortunate, and may we be ever mindful of them so that they may be in our prayers and share our blessings with them. Lord, I ask that You please cleanse me of my sins and continue to guide me down Your path. I humbly ask that you please continue to reveal Your plan to me one step at a time so that I may continue to learn and grow in You, my Heavenly Father, and Your Son Jesus. Please guide my heart, Lord, and teach me how to share Your love with others. Lord, I love You with all of my heart and soul and I always will no matter what. I will follow You, Lord, forever and ever and I shall never let You go. In Jesus' precious name, Amen.
Love and God Bless,
M.C.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Day 94: Just Forget It
I have a fairly good memory... sometimes too good. I have a tendency to remember things that I'd rather not remember. I'd have to say that that's one of my biggest faults. As of late, I've been thinking a lot about past mistakes--things I wish I could have avoided, things I wish I would have handled differently, and things I wish I would have just done. I need to learn to stop dwelling on such things. If God wanted something to happen a certain way, then it would have happened that way. Whatever has happened in my life was supposed to happen for a reason--God's reason. In knowing that, I should be content with the fact that God is my unfailing Guide and that He has much more important things in store for me.
Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.
~Isaiah 43:18 (KJV)
Whatever plans I make are subject to flaws. God's plans, on the other hand, are flawless. Whatever mistakes I have made in the past have been forgiven by God by the blood of Jesus Christ because I have proclaimed him my Lord and Savior and have asked forgiveness. According to the Bible that if I ask God for His forgiveness of any sins I have committed, and if His Son is my Savior, then He will wipe my slate clean as a whistle. And if God has forgotten what I've been forgiven for, then what reason have I to remember such things? There's a great quote, though, that says, "When the Devil reminds you of your past, remind him of his future." So if an undesirable memory happens to pop up out of the blue, just remember that if you ask God's forgiveness through Christ, it's gone. There is absolutely no reason to think about it anymore. Instead, think about your future walking with the Lord and all the wonderful possibilities He has in store for you!
Lord, thank You for this day. Thank You for all of the blessings You have given to me. Lord, thank You for my family, friends, and pets; I ask that You please watch over them, bless them, and keep them safe, strong, happy, and healthy. Please watch over those who defend Your name and this country, and I pray that You bless them and keep them safe. And please bless their families and friends with strength and serenity in times of separation and/or loss. Please watch over those who need defending and guidance most of all, and please bless them with family members and/or friends whom You can work through to bring them closer to You. Please let us be ever mindful of those who are less fortunate, especially in our own times of prosperity so that we may share with those who have very little. Lord, I hope that You work through me in such a way that I may spread Your gospel and Your teachings, but no matter what, I am eager to do what You have in store for me. Lord, in Jesus' name please cleanse me of my sins and please continue to keep me on Your path to righteousness. Lord, please teach me how to not dwell in my past; please help me to forget all that You have forgiven. Thank You again for all that You have done for me, Lord. I shall follow You and only You forever and ever. Lord, I love You with all of my heart and all of my soul and all of my being and I always will no matter what! In Jesus' precious name, Amen.
Love and God Bless,
M.C.
Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.
~Isaiah 43:18 (KJV)
Whatever plans I make are subject to flaws. God's plans, on the other hand, are flawless. Whatever mistakes I have made in the past have been forgiven by God by the blood of Jesus Christ because I have proclaimed him my Lord and Savior and have asked forgiveness. According to the Bible that if I ask God for His forgiveness of any sins I have committed, and if His Son is my Savior, then He will wipe my slate clean as a whistle. And if God has forgotten what I've been forgiven for, then what reason have I to remember such things? There's a great quote, though, that says, "When the Devil reminds you of your past, remind him of his future." So if an undesirable memory happens to pop up out of the blue, just remember that if you ask God's forgiveness through Christ, it's gone. There is absolutely no reason to think about it anymore. Instead, think about your future walking with the Lord and all the wonderful possibilities He has in store for you!
Lord, thank You for this day. Thank You for all of the blessings You have given to me. Lord, thank You for my family, friends, and pets; I ask that You please watch over them, bless them, and keep them safe, strong, happy, and healthy. Please watch over those who defend Your name and this country, and I pray that You bless them and keep them safe. And please bless their families and friends with strength and serenity in times of separation and/or loss. Please watch over those who need defending and guidance most of all, and please bless them with family members and/or friends whom You can work through to bring them closer to You. Please let us be ever mindful of those who are less fortunate, especially in our own times of prosperity so that we may share with those who have very little. Lord, I hope that You work through me in such a way that I may spread Your gospel and Your teachings, but no matter what, I am eager to do what You have in store for me. Lord, in Jesus' name please cleanse me of my sins and please continue to keep me on Your path to righteousness. Lord, please teach me how to not dwell in my past; please help me to forget all that You have forgiven. Thank You again for all that You have done for me, Lord. I shall follow You and only You forever and ever. Lord, I love You with all of my heart and all of my soul and all of my being and I always will no matter what! In Jesus' precious name, Amen.
Love and God Bless,
M.C.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Day 93: Trouble
God, why am I having so much inner trouble? I just can't seem to find the peace I've had before. Why? I don't mean to sound impertinent, but it would be nice to know. Lord, I don't want to leave your path... I don't want to leave You. I feel so unworthy of Your love and forgiveness. Please, Lord, come into my heart, sweep out all of the cobwebs, point out anything and everything that You feel needs to be removed and bring in anything You know needs to be brought in. Only You, Lord, can show me how to do this. I don't want to give up. You should know, Lord, that giving up isn't my style. I want to (and will) follow You and worship You and only You for years and years and years and years and years (i.e., forever).
I cried unto God with my voice, even unto God with my voice; and he gave ear unto me.
In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord: my sore ran in the night, and ceased not: my soul refused to be comforted.
I remembered God, and was troubled: I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed. Selah.
Thou holdest mine eyes waking: I am so troubled that I cannot speak.
I have considered the days of old, the years of ancient times.
I call to remembrance my song in the night: I commune with mine own heart: and my spirit made diligent search.
Will the Lord cast off for ever? and will he be favourable no more?
Is his mercy clean gone for ever? doth his promise fail for evermore?
Hath God forgotten to be gracious? hath he in anger shut up his tender mercies? Selah.
And I said, This is my infirmity: but I will remember the years of the right hand of the most High.
I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old.
I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings.
Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a God as our God?
Thou art the God that doest wonders: thou hast declared thy strength among the people.
Thou hast with thine arm redeemed thy people, the sons of Jacob and Joseph. Selah.
The waters saw thee, O God, the waters saw thee; they were afraid: the depths also were troubled.
The clouds poured out water: the skies sent out a sound: thine arrows also went abroad.
The voice of thy thunder was in the heaven: the lightnings lightened the world: the earth trembled and shook.
Thy way is in the sea, and thy path in the great waters, and thy footsteps are not known.
Thou leddest thy people like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron.
~Psalm 77:1-20 (KJV)
It's a comfort to know that even biblical figures like the Psalmist had trouble with faith. Unfortunately, it's because we're only human and we are more flawed than a chipped cup in a seconds warehouse. But the Psalmist was wise. Instead of just giving up and walking away from his faith, he held onto it even tighter than before. He admitted openly that he was having troubles and that he had been complaining a lot and that he felt overwhelmed; but he still turned straight to God. He remembered all of the previous times that God had really been evident in his life, and the Psalmist fed on those stores during his time of spiritual famine. The Psalmist knows that God is the one and only God, and that He is a redeeming God who walks with each of us everywhere we go--He guides us and strengthens us each and every step of the way. And even if it seems like God is light-years away, He isn't. God is always right there with us and He has a plan that will get us through. Sometimes we have to go through a trial to learn and improve something about ourselves. Sometimes we have to go through a trial to help someone else learn something. No matter what you are going through, IT'S OKAY. God is with you and he will not abandon You. Just trust Him. Take a deep breath, let it out slowly, and visualize yourself handing God every single trouble you are facing. He will take care of it in His own time. And above all, remember what God has done for you, your family, and your friends as well as all of His children throughout the course of history.
Lord, thank You for this day--it was indeed a good one. And Lord, I trust You. No matter what You have planned for me, I will not leave Your path. All I ask is that You continue to give me strength as You always have so that, with Your Holy guidance, I may overcome the obstacles that lie ahead. I know that God will lead me right to where I'm supposed to be when I'm supposed to be there. Please, Lord, watch over my family, friends, and pets; please bless them and keep them safe, strong, happy, and healthy. I pray that they never forget what You have done for them and that they always stay faithful to You and only You, Lord. Please watch over and bless those who defend Your name and this country. Please also watch over their families and friends and bless them with serenity and strength in times of separation and/or loss. Please watch over those who are in need of strength, defense, and/or faith. I pray that all who are lost will be found. Lord, in whatever way(s) I can do Your work, please, I ask that You show me. Please cleanse me of my sins, Lord, for I am certainly not without fault; and please continue to guide me on Your path of righteousness. Please continue to bless me as You always have, Lord. No matter what, You are my life, Lord. I shall always love You with all of my heart and soul, and I will follow You, Lord, forever and ever. In Jesus' precious name, Amen.
Love and God Bless,
M.C.
I cried unto God with my voice, even unto God with my voice; and he gave ear unto me.
In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord: my sore ran in the night, and ceased not: my soul refused to be comforted.
I remembered God, and was troubled: I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed. Selah.
Thou holdest mine eyes waking: I am so troubled that I cannot speak.
I have considered the days of old, the years of ancient times.
I call to remembrance my song in the night: I commune with mine own heart: and my spirit made diligent search.
Will the Lord cast off for ever? and will he be favourable no more?
Is his mercy clean gone for ever? doth his promise fail for evermore?
Hath God forgotten to be gracious? hath he in anger shut up his tender mercies? Selah.
And I said, This is my infirmity: but I will remember the years of the right hand of the most High.
I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old.
I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings.
Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a God as our God?
Thou art the God that doest wonders: thou hast declared thy strength among the people.
Thou hast with thine arm redeemed thy people, the sons of Jacob and Joseph. Selah.
The waters saw thee, O God, the waters saw thee; they were afraid: the depths also were troubled.
The clouds poured out water: the skies sent out a sound: thine arrows also went abroad.
The voice of thy thunder was in the heaven: the lightnings lightened the world: the earth trembled and shook.
Thy way is in the sea, and thy path in the great waters, and thy footsteps are not known.
Thou leddest thy people like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron.
~Psalm 77:1-20 (KJV)
It's a comfort to know that even biblical figures like the Psalmist had trouble with faith. Unfortunately, it's because we're only human and we are more flawed than a chipped cup in a seconds warehouse. But the Psalmist was wise. Instead of just giving up and walking away from his faith, he held onto it even tighter than before. He admitted openly that he was having troubles and that he had been complaining a lot and that he felt overwhelmed; but he still turned straight to God. He remembered all of the previous times that God had really been evident in his life, and the Psalmist fed on those stores during his time of spiritual famine. The Psalmist knows that God is the one and only God, and that He is a redeeming God who walks with each of us everywhere we go--He guides us and strengthens us each and every step of the way. And even if it seems like God is light-years away, He isn't. God is always right there with us and He has a plan that will get us through. Sometimes we have to go through a trial to learn and improve something about ourselves. Sometimes we have to go through a trial to help someone else learn something. No matter what you are going through, IT'S OKAY. God is with you and he will not abandon You. Just trust Him. Take a deep breath, let it out slowly, and visualize yourself handing God every single trouble you are facing. He will take care of it in His own time. And above all, remember what God has done for you, your family, and your friends as well as all of His children throughout the course of history.
Lord, thank You for this day--it was indeed a good one. And Lord, I trust You. No matter what You have planned for me, I will not leave Your path. All I ask is that You continue to give me strength as You always have so that, with Your Holy guidance, I may overcome the obstacles that lie ahead. I know that God will lead me right to where I'm supposed to be when I'm supposed to be there. Please, Lord, watch over my family, friends, and pets; please bless them and keep them safe, strong, happy, and healthy. I pray that they never forget what You have done for them and that they always stay faithful to You and only You, Lord. Please watch over and bless those who defend Your name and this country. Please also watch over their families and friends and bless them with serenity and strength in times of separation and/or loss. Please watch over those who are in need of strength, defense, and/or faith. I pray that all who are lost will be found. Lord, in whatever way(s) I can do Your work, please, I ask that You show me. Please cleanse me of my sins, Lord, for I am certainly not without fault; and please continue to guide me on Your path of righteousness. Please continue to bless me as You always have, Lord. No matter what, You are my life, Lord. I shall always love You with all of my heart and soul, and I will follow You, Lord, forever and ever. In Jesus' precious name, Amen.
Love and God Bless,
M.C.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Day 92: Rock, Strength, Salvation, Glory
Summer is so hectic, I hate to miss writing, but it's not always possible. However, just because I miss a day or two of writing doesn't mean that God isn't on my mind and in my heart. God goes with me EVERYWHERE!
My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him.
He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved.
In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.
Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.
~Psalm 62:5-8 (KJV)
God is always there for His children. The only expectations we need to be concerned about living up to are God's. As long as we rely on Him, we'll be just fine. God is the rock we can cling to during storms that arise in life. God is the fortress we can reside in during the battles we may face. God is the strength that we can rely on to carry us when we are weak. God is the glory our souls can bask in. God is the salvation we need to walk with Him and His Son forever. Trust in Him always and He will never abandon You, particularly in life's toughest times.
Lord, thank You for always being by my side. Thank You for blessing me as You have. Lord, please watch over my family, friends, and pets; please bless them and keep them safe and strong, happy and healthy. Please bless those who defend Your name and this country; please keep them safe and bring them home safe. Please bless their families and friends with serenity and strength in times of separation and/or loss. Please bless those who are in greatest need of blessing and defending. Please bless them with family members and/or friends whom You can work through to bring them closer to You. Lord, please, if it is in Your plans, let me help to spread Your word. Please work through me as You see fit. I trust You, Lord, with all my heart. Whatever You have planned for me is what I will do. Please cleanse me of my sins and continue to guide me down Your path of righteousness. Please continue to bless me as You have, for it is greatly appreciated. Lord, I love You with all of my heart and soul and I always will. I will follow You and only You forever and always. Thank You for You and Your Son infinitely. In Jesus' precious name, Amen.
Love and God Bless,
M.C.
My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him.
He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved.
In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.
Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.
~Psalm 62:5-8 (KJV)
God is always there for His children. The only expectations we need to be concerned about living up to are God's. As long as we rely on Him, we'll be just fine. God is the rock we can cling to during storms that arise in life. God is the fortress we can reside in during the battles we may face. God is the strength that we can rely on to carry us when we are weak. God is the glory our souls can bask in. God is the salvation we need to walk with Him and His Son forever. Trust in Him always and He will never abandon You, particularly in life's toughest times.
Lord, thank You for always being by my side. Thank You for blessing me as You have. Lord, please watch over my family, friends, and pets; please bless them and keep them safe and strong, happy and healthy. Please bless those who defend Your name and this country; please keep them safe and bring them home safe. Please bless their families and friends with serenity and strength in times of separation and/or loss. Please bless those who are in greatest need of blessing and defending. Please bless them with family members and/or friends whom You can work through to bring them closer to You. Lord, please, if it is in Your plans, let me help to spread Your word. Please work through me as You see fit. I trust You, Lord, with all my heart. Whatever You have planned for me is what I will do. Please cleanse me of my sins and continue to guide me down Your path of righteousness. Please continue to bless me as You have, for it is greatly appreciated. Lord, I love You with all of my heart and soul and I always will. I will follow You and only You forever and always. Thank You for You and Your Son infinitely. In Jesus' precious name, Amen.
Love and God Bless,
M.C.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Day 91: Requirement
My family and I was extremely blessed this weekend at the fair. The weather was the best it has been in over a decade--sunny, mild temperatures, a slight breeze, and low humidity. It was absolutely gorgeous! We also were blessed in terms of how much we sold. Thanks to God, we made more than we have in at least five years (and most likely more); and while it wasn't a fortune, it will certainly help out. On top of that, we had a few friends volunteer to help us. Indeed, many hands make light work (in terms of both work load and seriousness. It was also a way of knowing that I am very close to being fully recovered considering I worked both days all day. It was, without a doubt, our best year in a long time on several accounts.
Two things have I required of thee; deny me them not before I die:
Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me:
Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is the LORD? or lest I be poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain.
~Proverbs 7-9 (KJV)
God blesses my family and me in the best way--we always have enough so we are never wanting for the necessities like food and water, but at the same time we don't have every little (or big) thing we see. As it says in the above verses, if we had everything, we might "forget" about the Lord and think that we got everything on our own. Not to mention if we got everything we ever wanted, we may not appreciate what we have, value the wrong things, or feel like we never have enough. None of those outcomes are what I want. I am content with what my family and I have. God knows what we need when we need it, and I'm perfectly happy with that plan.
Lord, thank You for this day and this weekend. Thank You for blessing us as You have. I ask that You please show us what to do with our earnings. And please continue to bless us as You always have. Please watch over my family, friends, and pets; please bless them and keep them safe, strong, happy, and healthy. Lord, please also watch over those who defend Your name and this country; please bless them and bring them home safe. Please watch over their family members and friends and bless them with serenity and courage in times of separation and/or loss. Please bless those who are unable to defend themselves; please bless them with good Christian family members and/or friends whom You can work through. If it is Your will, please give me the means to spread Your Word. Whatever You have planned for me, Lord, is what I wish to do. Please cleanse me of my sins and continue to guide me down Your path. Lord, You are my one and only Lord and Savior, and I will follow You forever. I love You with all of my heart and soul and being and I always will, Lord. In Jesus' precious name, Amen.
Love and God Bless,
M.C.
Two things have I required of thee; deny me them not before I die:
Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me:
Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is the LORD? or lest I be poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain.
~Proverbs 7-9 (KJV)
God blesses my family and me in the best way--we always have enough so we are never wanting for the necessities like food and water, but at the same time we don't have every little (or big) thing we see. As it says in the above verses, if we had everything, we might "forget" about the Lord and think that we got everything on our own. Not to mention if we got everything we ever wanted, we may not appreciate what we have, value the wrong things, or feel like we never have enough. None of those outcomes are what I want. I am content with what my family and I have. God knows what we need when we need it, and I'm perfectly happy with that plan.
Lord, thank You for this day and this weekend. Thank You for blessing us as You have. I ask that You please show us what to do with our earnings. And please continue to bless us as You always have. Please watch over my family, friends, and pets; please bless them and keep them safe, strong, happy, and healthy. Lord, please also watch over those who defend Your name and this country; please bless them and bring them home safe. Please watch over their family members and friends and bless them with serenity and courage in times of separation and/or loss. Please bless those who are unable to defend themselves; please bless them with good Christian family members and/or friends whom You can work through. If it is Your will, please give me the means to spread Your Word. Whatever You have planned for me, Lord, is what I wish to do. Please cleanse me of my sins and continue to guide me down Your path. Lord, You are my one and only Lord and Savior, and I will follow You forever. I love You with all of my heart and soul and being and I always will, Lord. In Jesus' precious name, Amen.
Love and God Bless,
M.C.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Day 90: Provisions
Tomorrow is a big day. My family and I will be partaking in a large arts and crafts fair for the next few days, so things will continue to be very hectic. Despite all that, I know that things will be okay. In the past, we've all gotten a little frantic the closer it gets to this particular fair, but this year was very calm and relaxed. God has blessed us in so many ways--not only do we have the talents to make things, but God has made us all healthy and able to create and share our art with others. On top of that, God has blessed us with serenity. My family and I know that God will provide for us in whatever ways He knows are best because we are His children and He loves us. God would never let anything happen to us unless it is meant to make us stronger in faith. I trust God in whatever He has planned for me.
Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?
~Matthew 6:26 (KJV)
God loves all creatures great and small. He provides food and shelter for all of them, too. Animals have innate instincts that God put in them so that they know where to find food and how to stay warm (or cool) and how to avoid what should be avoided. If God can do all that for all the furry and feathery and scaly and slippery things on earth, why wouldn't He take care of His children too? I'm not saying that animals aren't important, but we as people are more important to God. Imagine if you have a child and a pet. Yes, you would take care of your pet because you care for it a great deal, but you would take care of your child in a much greater way. That's how God works. He loves all His creations, but His children come first. He will always provide in the best way.
Lord, thank You for this day and all days. Please watch over us as always, and let us do well this weekend. Please keep us healthy and strong. Thank You for all of the blessings You have given to me. I love You so much, Lord, I can't explain it. I know that sometimes I can be difficult, and that I don't always listen as well as I could, but I still love You and I always will. Every day I am improving as a person because of You. Through You, Lord, I can do what You sent me here to do to honor Your in all Your glory. I know that this weekend is going to be an excellent one. I give it to You, Lord, because I know that You can take care of everything for me. Whatever happens happens because You love me and that's how You've planned it. I trust You, Lord. Whatever You have planned is what I will follow. I just ask that You please watch over my family, friends, and pets, and that You bless them and keep them safe and strong, happy and healthy. Please watch over those who defend Your name and protect this country and all of Your children. Please comfort their loved ones in times of separation and/or loss. Please also watch over those who need defending, and bless them with family members and/or friends whom You can work through to brighten the world. Please let us be ever mindful of those who are less fortunate, and I pray that we can share whatever blessings we receive from You with those who have less than us. Lord, I humbly ask that You cleanse me of my sins and continue to guide me down Your path of righteousness. I never want to travel any road other than Yours and I never want to follow anyone but You, O Heavenly Father. I love You, Lord, with all my heart and soul and I always will. I will follow You forever and ever no matter what, Lord. In Jesus' precious name, Amen.
Love and God Bless,
M.C.
Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?
~Matthew 6:26 (KJV)
God loves all creatures great and small. He provides food and shelter for all of them, too. Animals have innate instincts that God put in them so that they know where to find food and how to stay warm (or cool) and how to avoid what should be avoided. If God can do all that for all the furry and feathery and scaly and slippery things on earth, why wouldn't He take care of His children too? I'm not saying that animals aren't important, but we as people are more important to God. Imagine if you have a child and a pet. Yes, you would take care of your pet because you care for it a great deal, but you would take care of your child in a much greater way. That's how God works. He loves all His creations, but His children come first. He will always provide in the best way.
Lord, thank You for this day and all days. Please watch over us as always, and let us do well this weekend. Please keep us healthy and strong. Thank You for all of the blessings You have given to me. I love You so much, Lord, I can't explain it. I know that sometimes I can be difficult, and that I don't always listen as well as I could, but I still love You and I always will. Every day I am improving as a person because of You. Through You, Lord, I can do what You sent me here to do to honor Your in all Your glory. I know that this weekend is going to be an excellent one. I give it to You, Lord, because I know that You can take care of everything for me. Whatever happens happens because You love me and that's how You've planned it. I trust You, Lord. Whatever You have planned is what I will follow. I just ask that You please watch over my family, friends, and pets, and that You bless them and keep them safe and strong, happy and healthy. Please watch over those who defend Your name and protect this country and all of Your children. Please comfort their loved ones in times of separation and/or loss. Please also watch over those who need defending, and bless them with family members and/or friends whom You can work through to brighten the world. Please let us be ever mindful of those who are less fortunate, and I pray that we can share whatever blessings we receive from You with those who have less than us. Lord, I humbly ask that You cleanse me of my sins and continue to guide me down Your path of righteousness. I never want to travel any road other than Yours and I never want to follow anyone but You, O Heavenly Father. I love You, Lord, with all my heart and soul and I always will. I will follow You forever and ever no matter what, Lord. In Jesus' precious name, Amen.
Love and God Bless,
M.C.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Day 89: Pot Luck
I'm glad that God has blessed my family and I with talents and a way to use those talents. That's part of the reason why I haven't been able to write as much lately. We've been working hard to prepare for an arts and crafts fair that's coming up very soon, which requires a lot of time and energy. God is truly an artist in his own right. He makes the things which inspire my family's and my art.
Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.
~Philippians 1:11 (KJV)
God works through us in countless ways. Some were put here to save lives, like doctors, EMS, firefighters, and police officers. Some were destined to be teachers, whether they be teachers of God's Word or of academic subjects. And others were meant to bring some sort of beauty to the world either through art, music, dance, or theatre. It's like a pot luck--everyone brings something different. That doesn't mean that these are the only callings God gives us, and we're not limited to just one per person. But no matter what God calls us to do as individuals, it has to be something that's going to bring goodness to the world. Any gift given by God is a blessing of righteousness. Above all else, the best and most important gift from God was--and still--His son, Jesus Christ. As long as each of us is filled with THAT gift, we have everything we need! Everything else is secondary.
Lord, thank You for this day. Thank You for all of the blessings You have bestowed upon my family and myself. Please watch over my family, friends, and pets; please bless them and keep them safe and strong, happy and healthy. Please bless those who defend Your good name and this country; please bless them and bring them home safe. Please watch over their families as well, and bless them with serenity and strength in times of separation and/or loss. Lord, please also watch over those who need guidance or defense or support; please bless those who need such things with good Christian family members and friends whom You can work through. Lord, if it is in Your will, I wish to spread Your word in some way. Lord, I ask that You work through me in whatever way is in Your plan. It is my biggest goal in life just to serve You in whatever way I can. Please cleanse me of my sins and keep me safe and strong, happy and healthy, and please continue to guide me down Your path to righteousness. No matter what, Lord, I am Yours forever. I love You with all of my heart and soul and I always will forever. I will serve You and only You, God Almighty, for You are my Father, my Creator, and my Guide. Thank You, Lord. In Jesus' precious name, Amen.
Love and God Bless,
M.C.
Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.
~Philippians 1:11 (KJV)
God works through us in countless ways. Some were put here to save lives, like doctors, EMS, firefighters, and police officers. Some were destined to be teachers, whether they be teachers of God's Word or of academic subjects. And others were meant to bring some sort of beauty to the world either through art, music, dance, or theatre. It's like a pot luck--everyone brings something different. That doesn't mean that these are the only callings God gives us, and we're not limited to just one per person. But no matter what God calls us to do as individuals, it has to be something that's going to bring goodness to the world. Any gift given by God is a blessing of righteousness. Above all else, the best and most important gift from God was--and still--His son, Jesus Christ. As long as each of us is filled with THAT gift, we have everything we need! Everything else is secondary.
Lord, thank You for this day. Thank You for all of the blessings You have bestowed upon my family and myself. Please watch over my family, friends, and pets; please bless them and keep them safe and strong, happy and healthy. Please bless those who defend Your good name and this country; please bless them and bring them home safe. Please watch over their families as well, and bless them with serenity and strength in times of separation and/or loss. Lord, please also watch over those who need guidance or defense or support; please bless those who need such things with good Christian family members and friends whom You can work through. Lord, if it is in Your will, I wish to spread Your word in some way. Lord, I ask that You work through me in whatever way is in Your plan. It is my biggest goal in life just to serve You in whatever way I can. Please cleanse me of my sins and keep me safe and strong, happy and healthy, and please continue to guide me down Your path to righteousness. No matter what, Lord, I am Yours forever. I love You with all of my heart and soul and I always will forever. I will serve You and only You, God Almighty, for You are my Father, my Creator, and my Guide. Thank You, Lord. In Jesus' precious name, Amen.
Love and God Bless,
M.C.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Day 88: Love the Lord
I apologize for not writing the past two days. I could make a list of excuses, but none would be good enough. Either way, I'm here now ready to write again.
Today I had a bit of an epiphany. As I was looking at my dog today, I thought about how intuitive dogs are, which made me think about a story my mom once told me regarding dogs and God. Many years ago when my mom was having a bad day, she sat down and began to pray. She prayed for a very long time. The very first dog we ever had went and sat by her feet. My mom and the dog were the only ones at home. All of a sudden, my mom first felt like someone or something present in the house and then felt instantly relieved. Rather than going berserk like she always did when she sensed something, the dog whisper-barked a few times, then curled up by my mom's feet and began to doze off. That's when my mom knew that everything was alright. Seeing my own dog today made me think of how even dogs know that God is there, and how even dogs follow Him.
And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.
~Deuteronomy 6:5 (KJV)
I know that what I said may sound a little silly, but I really do think that dogs are truly in-tune with God. Think about it... dogs don't worry about where their next meal is coming from, they are content with what they have in the moment, they take time to smell the roses (or the squirrels or the bones) and enjoy the world, they are completely they are totally loyal to the master they serve, they love unconditionally with all their might, they never want to leave their master's side, and will follow their master anywhere without fear even if they don't know where that is. All people would benefit by taking notes and following their example when it comes to their relationships with God and Jesus Christ. I think God may have created dogs as they are to teach us that very lesson. Just because dogs can't go to church or read the Bible or even pray as we do doesn't mean that we cannot learn valuable and godly lessons from them.
Lord, thank You so much for this day. Thank You for all days. Thank You for all of the blessings You have given to me. Lord, I ask that You please watch over my family, friends, and pets; please bless them and keep them safe, strong, happy, and healthy. Lord, please watch over those who defend Your name and this country; please bless them in all ways and take them in Your loving arms when it is time for them to go Home. Please watch over their family members and friends and bless them with strength and peace especially in times of separation and/or loss. Please watch over those who need You most and guide them back to You; please bless them with good Christian family members and/or friends whom You can work through. Lord, if it is in Your plan, please use me to plant the seeds of Your Word and may whatever seeds that are planted take root and sprout. I ask that You cleanse me of my sins and keep me on Your path. Thank You again, Lord, for who I am and what I have. I humbly ask that You continue to bless me as You always have and in any new ways that You may have planned. No matter what, Lord, I love You with all my heart and soul and being and I always will. You are the Light of my life, and my Beacon of hope. Thank You for Your son, Jesus Christ, who is indeed my Lord and Savior. I will follow You forever, Lord. And may I always keep in mind the humble and loyal dog You created who has helped to teach me such a valuable lesson.
Love and God Bless,
M.C.
Today I had a bit of an epiphany. As I was looking at my dog today, I thought about how intuitive dogs are, which made me think about a story my mom once told me regarding dogs and God. Many years ago when my mom was having a bad day, she sat down and began to pray. She prayed for a very long time. The very first dog we ever had went and sat by her feet. My mom and the dog were the only ones at home. All of a sudden, my mom first felt like someone or something present in the house and then felt instantly relieved. Rather than going berserk like she always did when she sensed something, the dog whisper-barked a few times, then curled up by my mom's feet and began to doze off. That's when my mom knew that everything was alright. Seeing my own dog today made me think of how even dogs know that God is there, and how even dogs follow Him.
And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.
~Deuteronomy 6:5 (KJV)
I know that what I said may sound a little silly, but I really do think that dogs are truly in-tune with God. Think about it... dogs don't worry about where their next meal is coming from, they are content with what they have in the moment, they take time to smell the roses (or the squirrels or the bones) and enjoy the world, they are completely they are totally loyal to the master they serve, they love unconditionally with all their might, they never want to leave their master's side, and will follow their master anywhere without fear even if they don't know where that is. All people would benefit by taking notes and following their example when it comes to their relationships with God and Jesus Christ. I think God may have created dogs as they are to teach us that very lesson. Just because dogs can't go to church or read the Bible or even pray as we do doesn't mean that we cannot learn valuable and godly lessons from them.
Lord, thank You so much for this day. Thank You for all days. Thank You for all of the blessings You have given to me. Lord, I ask that You please watch over my family, friends, and pets; please bless them and keep them safe, strong, happy, and healthy. Lord, please watch over those who defend Your name and this country; please bless them in all ways and take them in Your loving arms when it is time for them to go Home. Please watch over their family members and friends and bless them with strength and peace especially in times of separation and/or loss. Please watch over those who need You most and guide them back to You; please bless them with good Christian family members and/or friends whom You can work through. Lord, if it is in Your plan, please use me to plant the seeds of Your Word and may whatever seeds that are planted take root and sprout. I ask that You cleanse me of my sins and keep me on Your path. Thank You again, Lord, for who I am and what I have. I humbly ask that You continue to bless me as You always have and in any new ways that You may have planned. No matter what, Lord, I love You with all my heart and soul and being and I always will. You are the Light of my life, and my Beacon of hope. Thank You for Your son, Jesus Christ, who is indeed my Lord and Savior. I will follow You forever, Lord. And may I always keep in mind the humble and loyal dog You created who has helped to teach me such a valuable lesson.
Love and God Bless,
M.C.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)