June 2

I'm not saying that I know the mind of God, but, sometimes I think He lets us get away with quite a bit before we start feeling the effects of our disobedience. I believe wholeheartedly in giving, but I think we should go beyond the tithe. Years ago I had set it up so that the church could automatically draft our giving from our account. I noticed that things started going a little wacky. Our income is from residential rentals and anything that could go wrong, did go wrong. Air conditioners began to break, vacancies increased, and plumbing issues were non stop! Something, the Holy Spirit, told me to check our account. It had been almost six months since we had given to the church! You think it's hard to write out a monthly or weekly check, try writing out one for six months! Was this a coincidence? Maybe, but, everything we have, has been given to us by God and He expects us to give back to Him.

You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. 2 Corinthians 9:11

June 1

My grandson Lucas stayed with me for the day. He came in his pajamas and requested to stay in them. I, being a wonderful grandma, allowed him to wear them all day! We even went to The Home Depot! He's only five, so who really cares! Our grandchildren are very special, they are the future of our country and will probably have a lot of say in our care as we reach the conclusion of our days. I think it's important that we spend quality time with them and impart to them some of the knowledge God has given us. These are the good things in life. It's not how much money you leave them, it's the wisdom you give them that will help them achieve the desires that God has given them. They might just ignore you at the time, but one day that information will become useful and a part of their fond memories of you. But, the most important thing you can teach them is about Jesus! He is the wisdom from above, without Him, no other wisdom matters.

But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. James 3:17

May 31

Once in a while I have the pleasure of watching one of my grandchildren. My two year old grandson is full of wonder and notices things that we take for granted. He's learning more and more every day. He loves trucks and notices every truck that goes by. We can be so oblivious to the things going on around us that we fail to see the things that are important to God. What are you missing by not observing your surroundings? Are you forgetting to smile or acknowledge someone as you walk by? I've noticed that people aren't cordial or friendly anymore, and if you're friendly to them, they look at you like you're a freak. I'd rather be a freak than act cold hearted and unresponsive. Hold your head up and show love and compassion for others, even if it's just a smile. Everyone needs to feel like others see them and that they are not invisible in this big world.

Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. 1 Peter 3:8

May 30

One weekend I sprayed my paver patio with bleach to bring back the color. After doing that I determined that it needed new sand. What a job! Pouring out heavy bags of sand and then sweeping it into the cracks left me exhausted! The end results were worth every ounce of energy that I expended, it now looks brand new! I'm determined to not let it get that dirty again and to maintain it regularly to keep the filth under control. As Christians, we have the same opportunity to clean up our lives through Jesus. The thing is, we're already clean through Him, we just have a hard time accepting that. I've often heard people express that they don't understand how believing in Jesus and asking His forgiveness, could cleanse you. It's true! Our problem is that we don't truly believe it and hold onto all that past guilt, sin, and hurt. My word today: forgive yourself, because Jesus already has. To keep yourself free, seek forgiveness often.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5:17-18

May 29 Memorial Day

Many wars have been fought to give us the freedom that we relish. The nationally born Americans of today have never had to live under the oppression of a totalitarian regime where the government controls every aspect of the lives of its citizens. That's because of the men and women who have fought and died to keep us free. Today, when you crawl out of your comfy bed and go to the refrigerator and grab a bite to eat, remember how precious that is. Other countries aren't as rich as we are and aren't afforded that simple luxury. In the same way that our soldiers fought for our freedom and died, Jesus died so that you could be free from your sin and no longer have to pay the penalty for it. So, take a moment to remember those who've died so that you may live. We live in a free country and have freedom from our sin. What more could you want?

Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13

May 28

When I first got my little dog, Rudy, I thought that I may have made a mistake. He was rambunctious, full of energy, and would wake me up in the middle of the night. I also thought that he may have been sent to me from the devil as a distraction for my morning fellowship with Jesus. Well, if that was the case, what Satan intended for evil, God used for His good, because I've been able to use him as an example to drive home many Biblical principals. For instance, the neighbors very large black dog, Chopper, wandered into our yard just as I was letting my dogs out. As soon as Rudy saw him, he bolted out the door and chased him out of the yard! We had a David and Goliath moment! I thought Rudy was going to become a snack! We could all learn a lesson through this. The One who dwells inside of us is bigger than anything we could ever come against, which means we should have Rudy's confidence when we are facing our giants.

Then David said to the Philistine, "You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. 1 Samuel 17:45

May 27

One thing great about social media is that you get to connect with people from all over the world. Someone you may have never had contact with is now just a few clicks away. I'm friends with an amazing pastor who lives in Nigeria. I am blessed by his writings every day. I don't know him except through his post. He has an impeccable character and is very well studied in The Word of God. I don't know his struggles, the kind of home he lives in, or any other personal details about his life, but, I know about his passionate love for Jesus. Doesn't that say it all? The things of this earth are of no importance. It's Jesus that connects us, and through Him we are family. It's important that we pray for our brothers and sisters doing the work of God. We don't know the battles they face or the struggles before them as they push to get God's message out to the world. War is being waged against our faith, so pray for the strength of those fighting on the front lines.

Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 1 Timothy 2:3

May 26

The summer kickoff is just around the corner and soon vacations will be underway. Though my husband and I are empty nesters, some of our fondest memories are of vacations with our kids. We waited many years for our youngest son to reach the age of twelve so we could all become certified scuba divers as a family. We spent an entire summer taking classes and getting out there and experiencing underwater life. One thing we didn't have to experience was having a child wander off during vacation. Can you imagine leaving your child in a city that you just visited? It must have been horrifying for Joseph and Mary when they left Jesus in Jerusalem while there for the Passover Feast. It took them three days to find Him! Though we must remember, Jesus was always God, even as a twelve year old. He was found at the temple amazing those who heard Him. Your child is not God, so be careful not to leave them in the city!

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. John 1:1-2

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14

This story can be found in Luke 2:41-50.

May 25

Fear is something that can keep a talented person from pursuing a God given dream. If it's truly from God, and you ignore that calling, it will be taken from you and given to another who, may or may not be as talented, but heard the call and accepted the challenge. If you are fearful, take small steps towards that goal. God will give you confirmation at each phase of your journey. Make sure that you are following a dream that God gave you and that it's not for your own selfish gain. If it's truly from God, He will bless you every step of the way and give you a little more with each step of obedience. If you start experiencing push back from the enemy, chances are that the kingdom will be affected, so make sure you armor up! Don't be afraid to keep going, God is on your side and will help you advance. There is nothing more exciting and fulfilling than to do the work God called you to do!

May 24

Many people are grieving after heinous acts of terrorism continue to break out all over the world. Though it may seem that our fight is with flesh and blood, the Bible is very clear that it isn't. Could it be a last ditch effort of the enemy to show how powerful he is? He knows his fate and his everlasting place in hell and may be trying to bring as many with him as he can! Who is the one lying to these deranged souls? And, how did they become so deranged in the first place? What is the enemy trying to do? He's trying to control the world and paralyze it with fear! It's working! But, we as followers of Christ have nothing to fear. Even if we become a victim of a cowardly attack, our place in the kingdom has already been reserved. What could be worse than knowing that someone met an early demise without Jesus? This is why it is so important for us to do what God has called each of us to do and tell others about Jesus. 

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Ephesians 6:12-13

May 23

As I was thanking God for creating me, He reminded me that he created me from nothing. There was an empty space, and He filled it with me. This was by no means a deep thinking intellectual prayer, just a sweet download from the Father. Just think how amazing it is that, from nothing, He created the world and everything in it, including you! You weren't there and then you were, and He gave you a soul that will never perish! You came from nothing and now you are an everlasting being! Other than deception of the enemy, why would anyone follow another created being and call them their god? It's no wonder that the world hates us! They've chosen wrong and are jealous of our relationship with the Creator. They are like a tired child that doesn't know why it's crying! Be thankful that you know the truth and share a little bit of that truth with those that are crying.

By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible. Hebrews 11:3

May 22

There are a lot of sensitive people in this world today. They tend to get their feelings hurt over mere words. Offense is just a tool that the devil uses to cause division. Quiet people internalize the offense and stew over it until they're sick and angry. Loud people spew it everywhere, bringing other people in, causing even more offense. We all just need to take a step back and look at exactly what this is doing to us as individuals and as a society. Here's something for you to be offended by: Jesus had to go to the cross because of issues such as this! Our King and Savior died not so you could continue with your offended attitude.  What good is it doing for you to remain offended? Here is your answer - none! Hand it over, give it up, leave your offense at the foot of the cross and get on with your life. I'm sure your heart will be healthier if you do. Free yourself and live in peace.

For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:10

May 21

Graduation is a time for new beginnings. It's proof that you've completed a portion of your education and it's time to move on to the next phase of your life. For some, this means going on to higher education, and leaving the comfort of the childhood home. For others, it will be time to move on into adulthood and begin providing for themselves and become a productive member of society. No longer do they need someone to spoon feed them because they've learned to feed themselves. As believers, we also need to graduate from being fed to feeding ourselves. When we attend church on Sunday mornings, this should be like "continuing education", a time to confirm what you believe and not so much the whole of your biblical education. If all you're getting is coming from your preacher, your missing out on a lot of the wisdom contained in the Word of God. God speaks to us through His Word. Don't you want to hear what He has to say?

You need milk, not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil. Hebrews 5:12-14

May 20

It's not too often that you are invited to an old Florida ranch for a party. It was for my nephew and a few of his buddies graduation. One of the families raises cattle in what seemed like the middle of nowhere, but I think that they probably own the middle of nowhere! It wasn't a mansion like you would have seen on the old television show Dallas, more like the Ponderosa from Bonanza. Although, I'll bet there was a mansion somewhere on that property! We were greeted by a friendly older gentleman who happened to own that little spot of heaven. He said that he didn't own it, but was just given use of it, and then proceeded to introduce us to the one who did, Jesus. That man was first and foremost concerned about our soul and shared Jesus with us right away! We could all learn a lesson from a servant like that. Rich or poor, we are all assigned the duty of introducing others to Jesus.

Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person. Colossians 4:5-6

May 19

Coffee and prayer is how I start my day. Without coffee, I have a hard time waking up and I can't seem to function properly the rest of the day, I may have an addiction! And, not saying "good morning" to the Father, well, that's just rude. How do you live in the same house with someone and not speak to them. He is always in our midst, just because you can see Him, doesn't mean He's not there, you can't see air but you know it's there. Not speaking to the One who holds your life in His hands, seems a little dangerous, even though He's loving and wants no harm to come to you. It doesn't have to be a long drawn out church prayer, just acknowledge Him! I'm sure you've been to a graduation or a performance where your child is on stage and you wave, jump up and down, and do all kinds of foolish things to get your child's attention, just waiting for them to acknowledge you. What does God have to do to get your attention?

In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Proverbs 3:6

May 18

Sometimes God grants you some amazing moments. When He does, all you can do is rejoice and thank Him! I'm somewhat of a paddleboard adventurer. I usually stay on the calm, and less tumult bay side of the island, although I will strike out on the Gulf on a smooth day. This time, I stayed in the bay. We had heavy winds over the weekend, so the water was a little stirred and cloudy. I was thinking it was going to be a bust, if there's such a thing when you're on the water! However, God had a plan to dazzle me! As I was gliding along, I had a visit from a dolphin! It must have been curious or hoping I was fishing! Nevertheless, it accompanied me for a good distance. It was incredible! Just when you're minding your own business, God shows up! Sometimes it's just to put a smile on your face. When you are a follower of Jesus, things don't just happen willy-nilly, and every now and then, you get a kiss from the King!

I know, O LORD, that the way of man is not in himself, that it is not in man who walks to direct his steps. Jeremiah 10:23

May 17

My husband and I are getting ready to downsize, sell, and unburden ourselves of our excess. So, what do most people do when they get ready to sell? They clean up, repair, and replace broken parts! The question is, why didn't you just keep these things in like new condition to begin with? Instead, we live with them in their subpar condition. Then we realize that no one else wants our broken down junk, so we fix it. We tend to be the same way with our hearts and minds too. We don't do anything to repair it until it's time to move on and give it to another. Instead, we should ask the Lord to repair our brokenness and help us to move on so we are fully healed before we consider giving our hearts to someone else. Nobody want's your broken junk except Jesus, and He doesn't even like to keep it in that condition, that's why He offers us healing. Give the Lord your burdens and ask Him for healing. Don't wait, do it today. 

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Psalms 147:3

May 16

If you have a dog, you know how dependent they are upon you. Unlike children that grow and eventually learn to feed themselves, a dog depends upon you for their entire life. It is so worth the trouble you go to to help them because their love is so freely given. Their gratitude is evident by that sweet look they give you and the uncontrollable wagging of their tail. Then there's that moment when they are tired and they climb up in your lap or snuggle up next to you, you know they love you then. Now look at this same picture, but turned. We are completely dependent upon God for everything. We wouldn't even exist if it wasn't for Him. If all mankind would have the same attitude towards Him as our dogs have toward us, imagine how comfortable our lives would be. Change your mindset to one of complete dependence, be thankful, and full of love for the One who gives you everything, apart from Him, we are nothing.

I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:5

May 15

The beauty of gold catches the eye. Gold in its purest form is 24 karat. It has had all the impurities burned off and is very soft and pliable. It takes time and fire to refine gold to the point of purity, but once the process is complete, it is dazzling. It is the process of refining that we must go through to burn off our old ways and habits to make us pliable in the hands of God. You may be going through testing now and feel the burn of that refiner's fire, but remain steady and allow Him to bring out your beauty and change you. This time of testing strengthens your faith but requires you to rely solely on God for everything, submitting to Him just as the gold submits to the power of the goldsmith who works out every bit of dross bringing it to its purest form. As Christians, our purest form is Jesus. Our refining is burning off our old fleshly selves to reveal our true beauty, Jesus.

In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials,  so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:6-7

May 14

Being a mother is a special gift, just ask any woman who desires motherhood but has been denied. That deep longing going unquenched can set a soul into despair. They become deeply distressed and pray to the LORD, and weep bitterly. I have only given birth to one, but have raised many and call myself blessed because of it. Though my nest is now empty, I look back on those days with such fond memories. Children bring life into a home and change you from being self centered to selfless. Society may be trying to take away the role of a woman, but it is only through a woman that a child is born. Though mothers have a day in which they are honored, most will tell you that it is an honor to be a mom every day. For those still waiting, as Eli said to Hannah in 1 Samuel 1:17, "Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition that you have made to him."

Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: "Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all." Proverbs 31:28-29