November 15

From the age of twenty-one, God, whom I love dearly, thought it was important that I start my new marriage with three children. I raised them until they were grown, and then my husband passed away. I met a new man at the age of thirty-two, and God, whom I love dearly, thought it was important that I start my new marriage with three more children! At that point I had one of my own, and so life began again, with four. As a child, I remember telling God that I only wanted one child, and he answered that prayer, and laughed! God was teaching me how to love like he does. God multiplied my love to extend to a number of grandchildren, and even one great-grandchild! They are scattered, and I don’t see them all. This is an example of how beautiful God’s love is for us. Those children and grandchildren that are seen the most are able to glean important lessons from their well-seasoned elder; it’s comparable to drawing close to God. Those that are at a distance, are not loved any less, but there are important things they could be missing. Though the world may separate us, and send us in different directions, our love is still there. You are loved by our amazing God, and nothing can separate you from his love, in Jesus, but try to draw near to him so you can learn valuable lessons.

For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39

November 14

Life is funny, isn’t it? A difficult situation, heartache, or even tragedy, can bring people together who were once foes. I’ve always thought that it was  interesting how families could fight like cats and dogs among one another, but when someone comes against them, watch out, because they will band together in a heart beat! Christians are no different. We are the family of God, The Church. And, yes, we fight among ourselves over the precepts, doctrine, and theology, but no matter what, when the world comes against us, like it is now, we come together as one. Our enemy is not flesh and blood, even though it may seem that way. The flesh that seems to be coming against us, are only tools, and they don’t even know it. They are doing the bidding of Satan, and he will discard them when he’s done with them. However, the warriors who are for us, in the spiritual realm, outnumber those who are against us. So, do not fear when the battle ensues, you may feel you are down for the count, but remain strong, because we have already won; our Savior has overcome death, and the power that raised him from the dead resides in us!

"No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." Romans 8:37

November 13

There is a bakery in my area that makes sugar free/low carb, delectable treats. Because the holidays are near, my taste buds seem to be craving a little extra. I’m a pretty good cook, and I’m capable of creating my own treats, but there is something wonderful about being able to stop in a store and get them without the wait or the hassle. I went in on a Friday, and all they had was two items left, so I bought them, and inquired as to when they would have more. They said that they bake on Monday, and Tuesday, each week. I returned on Monday, but unfortunately it was a holiday, and they were closed. I returned again on Tuesday, but still no special treats, except this time she informed me that the baker had cheesecake ready for the oven, and other desserts slated to be made. Some of those special treats are predestined to be consumed by me. Now there are other desserts in the case, but they are loaded with sugar, and will not be chosen. Those special treats have no impact on whether I choose them or the one next to them; it is I who choose! If you’re reading this, because it is addressed “To the followers of Christ,” you are a special treat, and you’ve been chosen, justified, and glorified! You did not choose, you were chosen. I hope you feel special today.

Another point to make: you can’t tell by looking at them if they are sugar free/low carb. Sometimes they are labeled, but sometimes they are not, so you must ask!

For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. Romans 8:29-30

November 11

The devil will do his best to thwart the plans God has for you. I get so angry when he throws me off course! It’s so easy to fall for his schemes because we are vulnerable to his lies. God sets you on a path, but the enemy comes along and sows seeds of doubt, and dangles something shiny in front of you to send you in a different direction. You will know you are on the wrong path because you keep running into dead-ends. However, when you finally get back on the path, you know it because God sends his welcoming committee, and all heaven rejoices. My husband and I left our church in a nearby town because of the commute, and because we felt like we needed to become more involved in our own community. Months later we were still searching for a church to call home. God had given me insight into where we should be going, but sometimes the enemy will show you something to distort your view. We finally reached our destination, and it couldn’t be more obvious that we had found what we were looking for. The power of the Holy Spirit was so intense that I was in tears for most of the service. I was hungry, and seeking to be fed, and now that I’ve smelled the sugar cooking, all I want to do is eat! 

"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." Ephesians 6:12

November 10

For my birthday last month, my son bought me tickets to go see Elevation, Hillsong, and Casting Crowns. We had such an incredible time! I was moved to tears seeing a stadium full of Christians praising their hearts out for the glory of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit. As we approached the venue, we saw crowds of people trying to make it in; all were happy, peaceful, not pushy, respectful, and ready to get down to the business of what God created us for. It was a slice of what we have in store for us as we live out our eternity with our Savior and God, and I’m not upset about it! We don’t have to wait to give God the praise he deserves, and we don’t have to wait for a gathering of the saints; we can, and must do this daily. Your life is a testament to how good he is, so let the words from your lips show him your appreciation. Set your hearts towards God, for he alone is worthy of our praise. 

"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer." Psalms 19:14

November 9

My husband and I have adopted a sugar-free, low-carb lifestyle, but we still crave sugary treats like pancakes and desserts. There are lots of recipes the help you get past your desire, but they are not always accurate or descriptive, and can lead to lumps or cause them to be watery. I’m a pretty good cook, and know that you mix the dry ingredients, and then the wet ingredients, before mixing them all together, but what do you do with cheese? Anyway, I tried making pancakes without following directions, because they weren’t included, and ended up with major lumps. I had to get the blender out just to get it smooth. The point of this story is that there is an order to things, including our life as a Christ follower. God has given us very serious commands, because he is an orderly God and expects our lives to follow an orderly manner. If you try to mix the things of this world with the things of God, all you get is a bunch of lumps on the head. God is not tolerant of our misbehavior, and we will pay a price for our error. Yes, he is forgiving, but only because of Jesus. If you continually walk in the way of the world, without remorse, you may need to rethink your lifestyle and consider that you may not have the Spirit of God dwelling within you, and that is very serious!

Those who are in the flesh cannot please God. You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. Romans 8:8-9

November 8

Have you ever set out on a journey not realizing how long it would take? Richard had my car, and I had my grandson; I wanted to take him to a park that is close to my house. I loaded up the wagon with all the supplies that I would need for a two year old, and set out on this short journey. My memory did not serve me well, because the park was further away than I had remembered. It was a good thing that I coated him with 50 SPF sunblock, because it was long and hot! I had already started, so it was too late to turn back; besides, I needed to give the little sweetie something to do to work off some of his energy. We finally made it there, played a little while then made our way back. Our journey with Jesus is very similar. You think it will be short, because you accept him as your Savior, not realizing that even though it’s simple, he has plans for you that you never thought about. He takes your journey as a sinner and washes it away, and then begins the process of drying your tears. He covers you with son-block so you won’t get burned, and begins taking you on a walk towards sanctification. Submit to the process, it makes the journey so much easier.

"And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God." 1 Corinthians 6:11

November 7

I can hear my dad using the words, “I reckon,” when he’s contemplating something. I had never thought about it until I saw it used in the King James Version of Romans 8:18. I reckon it means, suppose, reason, conclude, think, or consider. Paul used the Greek word “logizomai,” which translates to reckon, consider, or any of the words above, to help us understand that he had come to the conclusion that our sufferings here on earth are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. We must remember that Paul had seen some things that no one had ever seen, and heard things that cannot be told; so he has the experience to back up his words. Remember, at one time, he was caught up to paradise. Whatever you may suffer as a Christian, just hold on to what you have, it’s only temporary, and according to Paul, it is well worth it! Don’t turn back to a sinful life because it’s an easier road; that easy road will eventually lead to disaster. Keep pressing on toward the upward call; your suffering will lead to glory, and we will finally dwell with our Savior for an eternity and soon forget our worldly challenges.

For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. Romans 8:18 ESV

For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. Romans 8:18 KJV

November 6

In our business, the first of the month is our busiest time. We must manage move-outs, and move-ins, and handle the accounts receivable, and accounts payable. People that rent from us, owe us debt for the use and maintenance of their home, and it’s the same if you have a mortgage, except you owe the bank, rather than a landlord. That debt must be paid or you will be evicted, and lose your home. Our body is the temporary home of our soul. It’s temporary because sin causes it to deteriorate; that deterioration is the debt we must pay, and eventually we will be evicted because the debt becomes too much. This is why it’s so important to nourish your soul, and maintain it because the Spirit of the living God lives within you. While our soul goes on to eternity, our bodies will be buried for a time, until it is clothed with glory and reunited with the soul at a time chosen by God. You must do what you can to maintain your body, because you have a purpose for the here and now, but you must also maintain your soul by looking to God for spiritual nourishment.

So then, brothers, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. Romans 8:12-13

November 5

Richard and I had our two year old grandson stay overnight. We’re getting older, so having a baby around becomes a challenge because our home is not prepared for children. What that means is, we have to have an eyeball on him at all times; until he starts to get into it, we don’t know what might become dangerous. One moment he’s right in front of you then the next moment, he’s headed to a ladder that’s sitting on the porch, which his Pawpaw showed him how to use! I decided that he needed to run free for a bit. He’s always saying “water,” so I thought he might like running through the splash park near our home. Boy was I right! His diaper weighed three pounds before I decided it was time to go. Our grandchildren bring us great joy; they each have something special about their personality that helps you see their potential for good things when they grow up. It’s up to us, working beside their parents to help bring out that potential by encouraging them in their special gift. This one likes the water; he might be the one who likes the beach like his Namaw. We’ll have to keep his lily-white skin covered up though; he’s the whitest grand-baby we have!

"“Only take care, and keep your soul diligently, lest you forget the things that your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life. Make them known to your children and your children's children—"Deuteronomy 4:9

November 4

There is a point in your life where you have to let go of your past and move on. Yes, people have hurt you, but it’s time to forgive them, not for their sake but for your own. This is one time when it’s okay to be selfish; you need closure, but they aren’t a part of it; this is about you. The pain they’ve caused you, probably doesn’t even bother them, and I doubt if they ever give you a second thought. Time heals most things, but sometimes the pain runs deep, and time doesn’t soften it. That’s when you know this pain is bigger than you can handle. When you’ve done all you can, then it’s time to hand it over to God and ask him for his healing touch. When Jesus was here on earth in the flesh, he tried to teach us how to be free, and leave our cares in his hands. Don’t take lightly what he did for us on the cross, not only did he wash away our sins, but he took upon himself all of our burdens, even the ones we are carrying right now. Today, ask God to heal you so you can move on with your life and live free.

As I finished writing this, I had to pray for myself, realizing that I have some things from my past that I haven’t released. I then asked God how I could tell others to do this when I haven’t even conquered this myself. Then he showed me this portion of scripture where Paul writes: 

Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:12-14

November 3

My family is in the business of providing homes; whether it is a rental, or a purchase, we procure that arrangement. We deal with a variety of people, from all walks of life; from the very poor and needy, to those who seem to have their life in order. In most cases, they are happy when they find that special home, because they have the strong desire to be settled. Their sojourn is over, and they can begin making their new home a place of comfort, and become familiar with their community. The process is very similar to finding a church home that is right for you. You may try a variety of churches, but when you find that special one, you know it. I’ve gone through the process of searching for a church more times than I should, and I love them all because they are family, and because of their relationship with Jesus, but there are some family members you can’t live with, and there are those you can’t get enough of. The point is, find a church home, but even better, find one that you can live and thrive in. Every church has its flaws, just like families do, find one whose flaws you can live with, remembering that Jesus is the center of it all.

And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. Acts 2:42-44

November 2

Have you ever felt like God was sending you a special message? It has happened to me, but because the message was not clear at the time, it was hard to understand. 

Here’s what happened: I was driving down a street, on my way to pick-up the mail at one of our properties, and this woman, whom I know is a little eccentric, was walking down the middle of the road, blocking me from getting past her. I finally saw an opening and took it. I didn’t disturb her, she’s a little different.

Then after that, I went to Costco and once I had checked out, and headed towards the door with my cart, an old woman, who was walking very slow began blocking me from passing, I finally caught a break and got around her.

After combing through the scriptures, looking for the meaning of this, I began to realize that it was about God’s timing. The prayers that I’m waiting on an answer to, will happen, but only in his timing. The roadblocks, and delays are all a part of his process. Then he assured me that he would give me what I desired within this life, and that he is the kind of Father that gives good gifts. Are you waiting for an answer to prayer? This is a reminder to all of us, that God loves us, and what he is preparing is worth the wait.

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. Matthew 7:7

"who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God." John 1:13

November 1

Even though the atmosphere was lovely, after a trip, it’s nice to come home. The familiar faces of your neighbors greeting you upon your return is welcoming.  It’s fun to get away, but there’s nothing like the comfort you create in your own home; you know you can count on it being just the way you like it. Jesus is our comfortable home. He is our beacon of light in this troubled world. We can go to him and find peace, and comfort from our sojourning. He’s familiar, because he never changes; he was the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. In this world, there will be trouble, but we can count on Jesus being the stronghold that keeps us safe, because he has overcome the world. As you face the challenges of your day, and go about your business, remember that you have a peaceful home to come back to, even if your earthly home lacks peace, close your eyes and find comfort in the arms of Jesus. He is familiar, and stable, and the picture of what we desire to come home to. 

"I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”"  John 16:33

October 31

When you ask a question, do you stop and listen for the answer, or do you ask just to hear yourself talk? I’m guilty of this, especially in my prayer time. If you need the right answer, look for it in the scriptures. God gave many examples of how he feels about things and the direction we should take. Jesus told stories in the New Testament to teach his disciples about life issues, look for your answer there. In all that he did, he was teaching us about the Father, and how everything we do should be to the glory of the Almighty. Life can be complicated at times, but through each of our trials, we have Jesus walking with us, and giving us hope. Spend some time in God’s Word; he has all the answers, if you listen.

"So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ."  Romans 10:17

October 30

One of my favorite times to be in the mountains is when it’s raining. Waking up to the sound of pitter-patter, as it filters through the leaves makes it easy to drift back to sleep. Somehow, the sound brings peace, and tranquility. It’s not quiet here, even without the rain, the sounds of the rushing waterfall breaks the silence. God brought to my attention my view from the couch where I can see out two sets of French doors. Through one set, I can see the incline of another mountain, but through the other set I can see down into a valley. I’m not at the peak, but I’m not as low as I can get either. If I were to go out and try to climb to the peak of the next mountain, I would have to descend from where I am, cross a stream of rushing water, then make my way through some treacherous terrain. If I wanted to make my way into the valley, I would follow the water fall down, but would still have quite a rough hike. Our walk as a Christian is similar; to ascend to the heights of the Lord, is a hard path to take, but descending into the valley is just as rough. Did you know that they grow crops in the valley? The ground is very fertile there. Just remember, wherever you are in your walk, is where God intends for you to be. If you are making your ascent, it means that he thinks you are ready for the climb. If you are still in the valley, he’s growing you.

He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalms 23:3-4

October 29

Perfect timing! It’s been a while since I’ve been in the mountains, but if ever there is a good time to go, it’s while the leaves are changing. The cool, crisp air is something that we who live in Florida desire, but don’t usually get until January. There’s a name the locals have for people like us, “leafers,” and I don’t mind being called that at all. We are in a setting deep in the woods, perched next to a waterfall, and a gristmill, and the color is spectacular! Does it get any better than this? Maybe in heaven! It’s a nice break right before the holidays, because as soon as I get back, I will hit the ground running with all the preparations. But for the moment, I will enjoy the peace and tranquility of the mountains, and breathe in deeply, and renew myself as I spend time with our glorious God, and our Savior Jesus. There is much to learn by spending time in the woods, God tends to use our surroundings as a tool to teach, and the quietness as a way to hear his voice. Even if it’s just for an hour or two, find time to break away and get alone with God, and if you can, take a chair and sit in the woods, you would be surprised how clear his voice becomes during that moment. 

And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves. Mark 6:31-32

October 28

Packing for a getaway to the mountains can be challenging, especially when it’s cold there, but hot where you live. You have to think about what you will wear while there, but also consider what you will wear on the way home so you don’t have a heat stroke. It’s time to dust off the jacket, and dig out the boots! If it was just me packing for me, it wouldn’t be so bad, but I pack for my husband and two dogs, you know the dogs need jackets too! Then we have to try and fit everything in the truck, because where we’re going, we will probably need power tools! It makes me feel like I’m leaving Egypt and packing everything I will need for the next forty years! Wouldn’t it be nice to just get in the truck and go without a care? The luxuries of today keep us needing all the comforts of home wherever we go. There is one trip we will eventually go on that all you will take with you is your memories, and the love in your heart. Your treasures will have already been accumulated, and waiting for you. It will be then that the agony of living in the world of the evil one will be over, and we will be set free, and the riches of the Father will be ours to enjoy, we will be home! The only reason you should be afraid to die, is if you don’t have Jesus. He’s the best reason for living, or dying. 

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. John 3:16-18

October 27

Do you ever try and avoid hearing the Lord’s voice because you know what you’re doing is not what he wants you to do? For instance, all I want to do is sleep, but I know I should be writing to bring a message of hope to whoever is reading my post. I keep trying to sleep to no avail, my mind seems to keep going on and on, even though my eyelids want to slam shut. I’m thankful that he is gracious, and patient with me. His voice was telling me to wake up, and be about my day, but I closed myself off, knowing full well that it was he that was talking to me. This type of behavior happens all the time, we just don’t want to admit it. Remember that person God told you to help? You were too busy, or maybe you were clutching your money too tightly, so you ignored his voice. Maybe he told you to call someone who might be feeling lonely, but you didn’t because they talk too much. I wonder how disappointed he is with us when he knows we hear him, but we go on as if he didn’t tug on our heart? Pay attention, listen, and obey. You have duties to fulfill as heirs of the kingdom.

So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. But someone will say, “You have faith and I have works.” Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. James 2:17-18

October 26

We are so bombarded with the presence of the enemy during this time of year, and he struts around openly flaunting his presence, but if memory serves me correct, every day belongs to God. When in Tampa, you can’t help but drive by this huge billboard with the picture of a creepy clown, advertising a festival for those who like to be scared. Why do people like to be frightened by those masquerading as ghouls and goblins? The people instilling fear find it powerful, and use it as a tool for mischief. The devil loves this, he doesn’t have to hide in the shadows, or disguise himself as a beacon of light, he can just be himself. The only people who need to fear, are those who are unsaved. The rest of us can go about our day, knowing that our future doesn’t consist of a daily dose of torture, or the sting of melting flesh from the pit. My preference would be to see the works of the Holy Spirit, and even that can be a little frightening, because it’s real, and you realize how close God is to you. The fear of God is healthy fear; get some!

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever!" Psalms 111:10