Be grateful

Here are more entries from my thankful/grateful journal. I love to read old journal entries and meditate on all the Lord has done. Please feel free to leave a comment of the things you are thankful for.

Friday, November 27, 2015

Our Anniversary 44 years

Rob’s birthday 36 years

Wow! Where did the time go?

              

               Today is Rob’s birthday. He has been though some hard personal times but has gotten through them. I am so proud of him. He spent many years in active duty in the Navy and continues to serve now in the reserves. He has been to the Middle East a number of times once with his reserve unit. He is a quiet man and a hard worker. He is finishing up his Master’s with only one more class to go after this semester.

               I am so proud of him and his accomplishments.

               Our anniversary is also today. Rob was born on our 8^th anniversary. We have had ups and downs like most but praise to God we are still together. Most of the time I think we balance each other. I praise God for His faithfulness and provision.

               The most important thing is not to dwell on the bad or sad times but to learn from them. If I was to write a list I know the good times would far outweigh the bad times. It’s all a matter of perspective. I want to see the glass ½ full not ½ empty.

I praise God for:

• 44 happy years together
• 3 great children
• 4 wonderful grandchildren
• Always having enough food
• Always having a warm house
• A comfortable bed
• Great extended family
• Cars that get us there
• Memories of grandparents, parents and other family members who have passed away
• Living in a free country
• Memories of our first years together – struggling to find 35 cents to buy a bottle of soda
• Susan Parker sharing the gospel with me
• My salvation
• Answered prayer
• More than enough

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

Saturday, November 28, 2015

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

“Prayer and supplication (request) with thanksgiving”, in this verse thanksgiving means gratitude; actually grateful language (to God, as an act of worship). Wow! When I thank God I am actually worshipping Him. I am showing gratitude for all He has done.

Today’s 5

1. Coffee
2. Quiet time with God
3. Morning walk with Mark
4. Beautiful sunrise
5. Warm weather

Sunday, November 29, 2015

16  Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; 17  That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: Ephesians 1:16-17

Today’s 5

1. Missionaries Larry, Kathy and Linda Carlisle to Uruguay at church today
2. Missionaries willing to go to foreign lands to tell others about Jesus
3. Paula doing better
4. Mexican food
5. Our church’s willingness to support missionaries

Monday, November 30, 2015

Today is the last day of November. In a few short weeks we will be celebrating the birth of our Savior and Lord. The week following  a new year will be upon us. Where does the time go? Even though November is ending our praise and thanks to God should never, ever end.

Each and every day we should look for opportunities to thank God. Can you breathe? Did you wake up this morning? Can you look out your window and see something? You get the picture. Thank God for all his wonderful blessings.

Dear Lord,

Help me each day to wake up thanking you. May my mind be focus on you daily. Let me meditate on your holy word and hid it in my heart that I might not sin against YOU. Let me daily remember the benefits that You provide. Thank you for all you have done above anything I could ask or think.

In Jesus precious name, Amen.

1  A Psalm of David. Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. 2  Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: 3  Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; 4  Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; 5  Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's. Psalm 103:1-5

In everything give thanks, 

Donna

Prayer

If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. II Chronicles 7:14

As I watch the steady decline of our country, I mediate on this verse. I pray this verse often asking God to show me my short comings as well as others who call themselves “by His name”.  The action of this verse is a group action not just an individual but an entire community of believers coming together to seek and plead for the interceding of the Heavenly Father.

Watching the news and following different blogs I see that the world as a whole and our country in particular is no longer following the tenets of God. Even some churches are calling “good evil and evil good”. People are saying certain things are right or “ok” when the word of God, the Bible, tells us not to do it. Everyone is following “what is right in their own eyes” (Proverbs 3:7)

Now is the time to turn back to God. How does one do this? By doing it God’s way and not our own way, here’s how:

The steps:

·        Humble ourselves

·        Pray

·        Seek God’s face

·        Turn from our wicked way

The result:

·        God will hear

·        God will forgive

·        God will heal the land

The Bible has many verses regarding prayer. Here are a few:

My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up. Psalm 5:3

Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice. Psalm 55:17

The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous. Proverbs 15:29

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; Ephesians 6:18

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

I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. I Timothy 2:8

Pray without ceasing. I Thessalonians 5:17 

Prayer is talking to God. Have you talked to Him today?

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Lessons from Esther: Before the king

3 And Esther spake yet again before the king, and fell down at his feet, and besought him with tears to put away the mischief of Haman the Agagite, and his device that he had devised against the Jews. 4 Then the king held out the golden sceptre toward Esther. So Esther arose, and stood before the king, 5 And said, If it please the king, and if I have found favour in his sight, and the thing seem right before the king, and I be pleasing in his eyes, let it be written to reverse the letters devised by Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, which he wrote to destroy the Jews which are in all the king's provinces: 6 For how can I endure to see the evil that shall come unto my people? or how can I endure to see the destruction of my kindred? 7 Then the king Ahasuerus said unto Esther the queen and to Mordecai the Jew, Behold, I have given Esther the house of Haman, and him they have hanged upon the gallows, because he laid his hand upon the Jews. Esther 8:3-7

The wicked Haman is dead but his dastardly deed will continue unless Someone steps in.

Esther is “beside herself” she is ready to burst from sorrow. Something needs to be done before the dreaded day, when all the Jews will be killed. She pleads with the king to remedy the situation before it is too late.

In Esther 3:13 we read, “And the letters were sent by posts into all the king's provinces, to destroy, to kill, and to cause to perish, all Jews, both young and old, little children and women, in one day, even upon the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month Adar, and to take the spoil of them for a prey.”

Esther asks the king to reverse the letters that Haman had sent to all the provinces. She is pleading and interceding for her people, the Jews. This is a picture of what we as Christians should be doing daily, interceding on the behalf of others.

·        Hear my prayer, O God; give ear to the words of my mouth. Psalm 54:2

·        The LORD hath heard my supplication; the LORD will receive my prayer. Psalm 6:9

·        Give ear, O LORD, unto my prayer; and attend to the voice of my supplications. Psalm 86:6

·        Let my prayer come before thee: incline thine ear unto my cry; Psalm 88:2

·        Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee. Psalm 122:6

·        Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. Romans 10:1

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

Ahasuerus reminds Esther and Mordecai what he has done so far in regard to the serious situation. He had Haman hanged and he gave Haman’s house to Esther. This is not exactly what Esther was referring to, she wanted to save the lives of her people and without a reversal of the decree they were doomed.

Join me the next time to find out the rest of the solution.

Have a blessed day,
Donna

The Christmas season

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Matthew 5:16

Can you believe it is already December? Christmas is only 16 days away. What does Christmas mean to you?

As I ponder this thought many Christmas memories come floating to mind. I remember one Christmas going with my father to pick out the Christmas tree, while there I saw a poor crippled boy. I remember crying for this boy and praying for him for many months. It had an impact on me.

I have lots of happy Christmas memories which include:

·        Singing carols with the neighbors

·        Having one big present and one or two “small” items

·        An orange, apple and tangerine and maybe a few coins in my stocking

·        Singing carols at the veteran’s home

·        Singing carols at the nursing homes

·        Making cookies for the veterans

·        Going to see “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” with my granddaughters

·        Adopting a family instead of buying gifts for each other

·        Our first Christmas tree as a young married couple – we purchased the biggest one we could afford

·        Making my grandfather my favorite pumpkin bread recipe, which is all he wanted and all I could afford.

·        Making homemade gifts, which I still think are the very best kind

·        Making cookies for the neighbors

·        My uncle “playing Santa”

What are some of your favorite memories? As the season begins dwell on your happy Christmas memories. Find ways this Christmas to make more good memories. Look for ways to help those less fortunate than yourself.

Here are some ideas:

·        Buy gift cards (local coffee shops, McDonald’s, Wal-Mart, and Target) in small amounts ($5-$10) and give them out when the Spirit leads

·        Make cookies or fruit breads (banana, pumpkin etc) for shut ins

·        Volunteer at a soup kitchen

·        Volunteer at a local charity

·        Make small gifts or look for small gifts to have on hand to give when the Spirit leads

·        Spend time with an elderly neighbor or family member

·        Give the gift of time

Here are some verses and quotes that may help:

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

Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. I Corinthians 10:31

I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.  ~ Charles Dickens

When we were children we were grateful to those who filled our stockings at Christmas time.  Why are we not grateful to God for filling our stockings with legs?  ~ G.K. Chesterton

And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so?  It came without ribbons.  It came without tags.  It came without packages, boxes or bags.  And he puzzled and puzzled ‘till his puzzler was sore.  Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before.  What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store?  What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more?  ~ Dr Seuss

Christmas gift suggestions:  To your enemy, forgiveness.  To an opponent, tolerance.  To a friend, your heart.  To a customer, service.  To all, charity.  To every child, a good example.  To yourself, respect.  ~ Oren Arnold

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Lessons from Esther: A new Queen

15 Now when the turn of Esther, the daughter of Abihail the uncle of Mordecai, who had taken her for his daughter, was come to go in unto the king, she required nothing but what Hegai the king's chamberlain, the keeper of the women, appointed. And Esther obtained favour in the sight of all them that looked upon her. 16 So Esther was taken unto king Ahasuerus into his house royal in the tenth month, which is the month Tebeth, in the seventh year of his reign. 17 And the king loved Esther above all the women, and she obtained grace and favour in his sight more than all the virgins; so that he set the royal crown upon her head, and made her queen instead of Vashti. Esther 2:15-17

Now it is Esther’s turn to go before the king. Just like the women before her, Esther was allowed to ask for anything she needed. Esther did not ask for anything, she was satisfied with the items she had.

Everyone who saw Esther was impressed with her beauty. It was not just outer beauty but inner beauty that Esther possessed. Inner beauty radiated to the outward appearance.

The king was also “taken” by Esther. He loved her above all the other women and set the beautiful jeweled crown on her head. Esther the orphaned Jewish girl was now the beautiful queen of King Ahasuerus who ruled over 127 provinces.

What can we learn from this small portion of scripture?

©  Esther was humble v15a

But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. James 4:6

Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. James 4:10

©  Esther was satisfied  v15b

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. Philippians 4:11

And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. I Timothy 6:8

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

©  Esther had a quiet spirit v15c

But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. I Peter 3:4

©  Esther had inner beauty 

…for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. I Samuel 16:7

The “hand of God’ can be seen in this portion of scripture, His name is not mentioned but God was with Esther each step of the way.

As I look at the life of Esther and the circumstances that she found herself in, I thank God for my life. Instead of griping and complaining about the situation we need to thank God for His guidance and sovereignty.

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Knowing the future will not satisfy

10 That which hath been is named already, and it is known that it is man: neither may he contend with him that is mightier than he. 11 Seeing there be many things that increase vanity, what is man the better? 12 For who knoweth what is good for man in this life, all the days of his vain life which he spendeth as a shadow? for who can tell a man what shall be after him under the sun? Ecclesiastes 6:10-12

Let’s be concerned about now, the present. Don’t worry about the past, you cannot change it. Don’t worry about the future, you do not know what it will hold and worry will just make one anxious.

Knowing the future will not satisfy. As soon as the future was revealed, if it could be, we would want to know more and more. Solomon is again reiterating that satisfaction does not come by way of knowing the future.

There is an old Doris Day song, Que Sera Sera and the chorus says:

Que Sera, Sera,
Whatever will be, will be
The future's not ours, to see
Que Sera, Sera
What will be, will be.

Philippians 4:6-7  Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7  And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

“I am always content with what happens; for I know that what God chooses is better than what I choose.” ~ Epictetus (Roman philosopher)

Our goal each and every day should be: Lord, what would you have me to do. Pray today and ask the Lord to show you the right path to follow.

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Do good

12 I know that there is no good in them, but for a man to rejoice, and to do good in his life. 13 And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God. Ecclesiastes 3:12-13

There appears to be a change in thought process. Rejoice in what you have and do well in this life. Be thankful for everything. Be grateful that you can work and provide food and needs for your family.

Everything I have is a gift from God. I am blessed with the ability to think, the ability to work, and the ability to do for others.

A few verses that jumped to mind are:

9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. 10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. Galatians 6:9-10

Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Philippians 4:4

Think of those around you, whether they be family, friends or acquaintances, is there something you can do for one of them this week? Look for opportunities to share the “goods of your labor” with others.

Do not wait for extraordinary circumstances to do good; try to use ordinary situations. ~ Henri Richter

Just do it ~ Nike

Have a blessed day, 

Donna

Lessons from a trip – Lost and found

Did you ever lose something and look and look but could not find it? When you think it is gone you usually stop looking. We were gone on vacation for ten days. I stopped delivery of the mail and newspaper. We let the neighbors know we would be gone and asked them to keep an eye on the house. I made arrangements for my son to come over and feed the cat.

Everything was set. We left early Friday morning packing the car the night before. We doubled checked everything and were starting out the door when my husband asked if I saw Mimi. I did not see her that morning, which is not unusual because she will “hid” for hours and sometimes for a whole day. We set off for our vacation.

Two days later my son texted me to let me know he had been at the house but did not see the cat. Again I was not overly concerned because she will hide when someone comes over to the house. He stopped by again in a few days and noticed that food and water were not touched. He looked everywhere but could not find Mimi. Oh did I mention that Mimi is a house cat and does not go outside.

When we arrived home my husband looked inside and out, calling “Mimi” but still no cat. We resigned ourselves that she was gone. We went to bed after a long two days of driving. As we prayed together my husband prayed for Mimi, that we would find her. I was surprised and comforted by the prayer.

The next morning I got up and sat in my favorite chair to have quiet time. I was reading and happened to look up through my glass door. A cat was walking down my driveway and it didn’t look like one of the neighbor cats but it looked a lot like Mimi. As I opened the door the cat ran under my porch. I put slippers on and went to look under the porch. As I walked I called “Mimi” and heard a familiar meow. After a few minutes of coaxing she came to me. I could not believe my eyes. She was thin but otherwise looked healthy. I carried her inside, put her down and she ran to her food. After a ten day adventure Mimi the cat was home safe and sound.

This was a gentle reminder that God answers prayer. No matter how small or large the problem God knows. The answer may not always be the one we want but it is always the right one.

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 1Peter 5:7 

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippines 4:6 -7

Is there a “small” problem in your life? Pray, God is there. Is there a “LARGE” problem in your life? Pray, God is there. No matter what the situation God know and cares. We need to reach out as He is reaching out to us.

Pray without ceasing. 1Thessalonians 5:17 

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Taunting remarks

[1] But it came to pass, that when Sanballat heard that we builded the wall, he was wroth, and took great indignation, and mocked the Jews. [2] And he spake before his brethren and the army of Samaria, and said, What do these feeble Jews? will they fortify themselves? will they sacrifice? will they make an end in a day? will they revive the stones out of the heaps of the rubbish which are burned? [3] Now Tobiah the Ammonite was by him, and he said, Even that which they build, if a fox go up, he shall even break down their stone wall. [4] Hear, O our God; for we are despised: and turn their reproach upon their own head, and give them for a prey in the land of captivity: [5] And cover not their iniquity, and let not their sin be blotted out from before thee: for they have provoked thee to anger before the builders. Nehemiah 4:1-5

Sanballat is not happy when he hears the wall is being built. He is extremely angry and mocks the Jews. He doesn’t stop there but goes out and starts to mock and put them down to anyone who will listen. He goes to his brothers as well as the whole Samarian army. “Just look at what the feeble Jews are doing. Will they really be able to make the wall of the city strong? Will they sacrifice? Will they finish the work? Will they get stones out of the burnt dump?”

His fellow conspirator, Tobiah, is there with gloomy thoughts too, “The work is a mess, if a fox goes up on the wall it will fall down.” Discouragement, opposition, conflict, resistance is on all sides of Nehemiah and the people that are working on the wall.

What does Nehemiah do? He runs to a corner and cries! Absolutely not, Nehemiah does what he does best, prays. He cries out to God, “God turn what they are saying around to be on their own heads, don’t let their sin be covered up. God by provoking us they are provoking you. Nehemiah is not known for “mincing” works. He calls sin, sin.

Nehemiah is on a mission to repair the wall of Jerusalem. He will let nothing stop him.

Does God want you to do something? Maybe He wants you to speak to someone about Him? Maybe He wants you to do something at church? Maybe He is speaking to you about … Only you know. Keep at the task at hand, God is there for encouragement. Don’t be discouraged by what others say.

…for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. Hebrews 13:5

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Philippians 4:13

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Making plans

[16] And the rulers knew not whither I went, or what I did; neither had I as yet told it to the Jews, nor to the priests, nor to the nobles, nor to the rulers, nor to the rest that did the work. [17] Then said I unto them, Ye see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach. [18] Then I told them of the hand of my God which was good upon me; as also the king's words that he had spoken unto me. And they said, Let us rise up and build. So they strengthened their hands for this good work. Nehemiah 2:16-18

Nehemiah gives a “pep talk”. I can picture Nehemiah getting everyone together and laying out the plan. Okay guys this is the way it is, “we’re in a bit of distress here, the city is ruined and the gates are burnt down. Let’s get up and build it back up.”

His excitement was bursting forth and everyone was getting energized with him. They all wanted to build up their city. Maybe they put their hands in a circle on top of each other; maybe they got on their knees in the middle of the room. We are not told but we know that God gave them the strength “for this good work.”

Are you discouraged with something in your life? God gives us the strength to do the right thing.

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Philippians 4:13

Have a blessed day,
Donna

House hunters

Have you ever watched house hunters? It’s a TV show about people looking for a house to buy. It may be in the US or another country. The people go from house to house searching for the “perfect one”. The more I see this show the more I realize we, as a whole, are very unthankful people. Some of the rational for not buying a certain house range from the color of the walls, to the bathroom not being large enough to not having the “right” appliances. Instead of complaining about some of those things we need to be thankful for them.

Does the color of a wall matter? What matters is that you have a wall.

Does the size of a bathroom change anything? Is it useable, then praise God. There are countries whose facilities are a hole in the ground.

Will the food be “more cooked” or taste better because you have a stainless steel stove compared to a white one? Thank God if you have a stove, there are people who do not have a home never mind a stove.
We need to be thankful. We need to be thankful. We need to be thankful for what we have, not desire what we don’t have.

Be content

Be thankful

Be grateful

Be appreciative

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. Philippians 4:11

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Let’s be honest

I’m on a little rant – I am so tired of people not being honest. They will tell you one thing to your face, and then you will get an email or voice mail saying something totally different. Let’s just be honest we are all adults if you disagree with something please let me know. We can agree to disagree. We don’t all need to go to the same church, the same school or even the same grocery store.

This world is made up of choices. We have a choice to choose how we live. We have a choice to attend a certain church or a certain school. We make choices each and every day. We are also responsible for the choices we make.

Improvement can only come if we are honest with each other. I am not talking about being rude and insulting but be honest. Be honest when you speak to each other. We do not need to say what we think the other person wants us to say. When you can’t think of something honest to say then make a choice to be quiet.

Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. Ephesians 4:25

But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: Ephesians 4:15

Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men. 2 Corinthians 8:21

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

Have a blessed day,
Donna

I have a great life!

I work at a yacht club, lots of crazy busyness in the summer months, not so busy from Labor Day on. As a matter of fact it slows down to a manageable pace. We can actually get work done in a timely matter, not so in the summer. One will start a task and get “sidetracked” all day by questions, other jobs that need to be done “yesterday” and so forth and so on. Some days I leave at the end of the day exhausted and think, “I got none of my work done” but I did accomplish lots of other odd jobs that needed to be finished.

We have a junior sailing program, where sailing is taught to children from 5 to 18. The sailing instructor staff is made up of high school (junior instructors) and college (senior instructors and sailing coaches) students, who know the craft of sailing. We hire instructors from all over the country who have been brought up in the sailing world. Most of our instructors have been sailing since young ages, participating in regattas (sailing races); it is in “their blood.”

One of the instructors, returning for her third year, is a young woman from the Midwest. She has a jubilant, exhilarating spirit, always happy and upbeat. The students as well as the parents adore her. She will stop by my office every few days just to say “hi” and tell me a story about a regatta she just attended with her students. I look forward to seeing her smiling face.

The other day she stopped by and was chatting about her day off. She had worked almost 3 weeks without a day off and never complained about it. The next day she was going to the Red Sox game with some friends. Remember this is Red Sox nation, everyone in New England loves the Sox (well almost everyone). She was so excited she was bursting inside, going to a Red Sox game was one of her “must do things” while in New England.

When I got a chance to get a word in, I said, “You have a pretty exciting life”. Her reply was, “I have a great life! I am so blessed.”

What a wonderful statement, as Christians do we see our life as a “great life”. I reveled in this statement for the next few days. I have a great life, my reasons are a little different than my friend, the sailing instructor, but a great life it is.

Here are just a few of my reasons:

God has made each and every day for me to enjoy.
This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24

God has provided me with many benefits the most important is His salvation.
Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah. Psalm 68:19

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippines 4:19

The Lord has blessed me with three wonderful children, and four amazing grandchildren.
Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. Psalm 127:3

God is always with me.
…for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. Heb 13:5

God loves me.
Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 1 John 4:10

We love him, because he first loved us. 1 John 4:19

I serve a great and marvelous God.
Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Psalm 100:2

Remember his marvellous works that he hath done, his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth; 1 Chronicles 16:12

I will praise thee, O LORD, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works. Psalm 9:1

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Attitudes

Attitudes, we all have them whether good or bad. Have you ever noticed the type of attitude you have will affect your whole day? I have really been thinking about attitudes lately.

My husband was out of work since the end of December. He injured his back, went through physical therapy, an operation and more physical therapy. He used crutches, canes, wheelchair, and walker, and some days could not stand on his own power. Through all of this his attitude was excellent. He did not blame God or someone else for what he was going though, he took it all in stride as another day in his life. He was positive through this entire time, he kept working toward his goal of getting better. Slowly, some days slower than others, he has gotten his strength back, he is not at 100% but he continues to work toward the goal. He may never be at 100%, this may be his “new normal” but his attitude and hard work has gotten him where he is now– how we think affects how we act.

I worked with a person who complained about everything, and I do mean everything. No matter what the situation something negative was said, the weather was too hot in the summer but way to cold in the winter, the phone rang too much or not enough, people asked too many questions or did not ask enough. The negativity was constant and I had enough; I was starting to capture the “negative” bug myself. Finally when I heard for the umpteenth time that another job was better than the one she had I said why don’t you apply? The excuses started but it made her realize I did not want to hear all the pessimistic comments. Negative attitudes can affect everyone. Negatively will “rub” off on us if we let it.

Sometimes it is hard for Christians to stay focused on the Lord. Our mind works overtime and the negative attitudes start to cultivate in our thoughts. We look around and see others doing so much better than we are, whether physically, mentally, or spiritually. The “grass is greener” syndrome is everywhere even in the Christian realm.

What can we do to have better attitudes?

Realize where the negative comes from
Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Ephesians 2:2

Think differently
And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; Ephesians 4:23

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Philippians 2:5

Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Philippians 4:4

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

Praise God for what you have
I will praise thee, O LORD, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works. Psalm 9:1

And my tongue shall speak of thy righteousness and of thy praise all the day long. Psalm 35:28

Meditate on the blessings of God
Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah. Psalm 68:19

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: Ephesians 1:3

Don’t compare yourself to others
For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. II Corinthians 10:12

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Verses of comfort

The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1

Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD. Psalm 27:14

Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. Psalm 55:22

Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah. Psalm 68:19

But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may declare all thy works. Psalm 73:28

Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Psalm 103:2

Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; 4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. II Corinthians 1:3-4

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

Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. Hebrews 13:5 -6

Have a comforting day,
Donna

Lingering

And while he lingered, the men laid hold upon his hand, and upon the hand of his wife, and upon the hand of his two daughters; the LORD being merciful unto him: and they brought him forth, and set him without the city. Genesis 19:16

Each time I read this verse I marvel at the love of God. Lot was told to get out of the city. He had lived there for many years therefore he knew how evil it was. Sin had a great hold on Lot. The hold was so great that the Lord sent angels not only to warn but, to physically pull him out of the city of Sodom.

We need to be careful since we are not immune to sin. Sin always takes you farther than you want to go. The only way not to get deeply involved with sin is to stay completely away from it.

God is merciful to us. Everyday God goes into the slime pit of sin and literally pulls sinners out. God does not want any to perish.

It is extremely hard to stay away from sin, in our own strength, but we have the strength of God and His Word on our side. As you start your day ask God for strength and claim Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Focus on God

But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, 21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. 22 And of some have compassion, making a difference: 23 And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.
Jude 20-23

Jude is telling us to focus on God. He tells the reader to build up yourself. Build up yourself on what? Books you read, movies you see, conversations you hear? No, build on your faith – your faith in God and pray to the Holy Spirit. Wow, our focus needs to be on God and what He wants from our lives, not what we want.

We need to be praying and asking God what He would have us do. Seek God and follow His leading in all aspects of your life. Meet Him in the morning before you start the day.

Jude then goes on to say, keep yourselves in the love of God. The more you read the word of God, the more you realize it is not about us but about Him. All of our time, energy and being should be focused on the One who gave all for us. Is it easy, absolutely not, but it is possible.

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Philippians 4:13

As you walk your daily path today look around to see the beauty of God’s creation. Focus on Him and the love He shows to you.

Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:39

Have a blessed day,
Donna

God can use you

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Philippians 4:13

Summer is always a busy time for me. My hours at work increase, because it is a seasonal operation. Besides the increased hours I also run our yearly VBS. On top of this, my mom was up from Florida for two weeks this year. It was fun to spend time with my mom.

Needless to say those are some of the reasons I have not kept up with my blog. I’m hoping that I will be more consistent in blogging. Isn’t it funny how life gets in the way?

Today I was thinking about many things. Several times, in the past, I heard someone say, “I can’t be used by God because of ….” While “surfing” the net, I found this:

The next time you feel like God can’t use you, remember:

Noah got drunk Genesis 9:20-22

Abraham was too old Genesis 17

Jacob was a liar Genesis 27:19

Leah was considered ugly Genesis 29:17

Joseph was abused Genesis 37:24-36

Moses stuttered Exodus 4:10

Gideon was afraid Judges 6:21-23

Samson had long hair and was a womanizer Judges 14

Rahab was a prostitute Joshua 2:1

Jeremiah and Timothy were too young Jeremiah1:6-7 and 2 Timothy 1:2

David had an affair and was a murderer 2 Samuel 11:3-27

Elijah was suicidal 1King 19

Isaiah preached naked Isaiah 20:2-4

Jonah ran from God The book of Jonah

Naomi was a widow Ruth 1:3

Job lost everything The Book of Job

Peter denied Christ Matt.26:69-70

The Disciples fell asleep while praying Matthew 26:40

Martha worried about everything Luke 10:40

Mary Magdalene was cleansed of seven demons Mark 16:9

The Samaritan woman at the well had five husbands John 4:18

Zaccheus was too small Luke 19:3

Paul persecuted Christians Acts 8

Timothy had stomach problems 1 Timothy 5:23

Lazarus was dead! John 11

Now! No more excuses! God can use you to your full potential. Besides you aren't the message, you are just the messenger.
-Author unknown

While reading this I thought of some contemporary people that God used:

Franklin Graham was a prodigal

Billy Sunday from baseball player to preacher

Corrie tenBoom from first woman watchmaker to hiding Jewish refugees during WWII

Mel Trotter from hopeless drunk to hope in Christ

Dorie vanStone from orphan that no one wanted to a great woman of faith

Helen Cadbury from candy “heiress” to one of the organizers of Pocket Testament League

Tim Lee from running from God to Evangelist

Remember God is always with us and can use us in spite of ourselves, if we are willing to be used by Him.

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Praise Him

The word praise is mentioned 248 times in the Bible. Here are a few things to get you started on a “praising” day.

What should we praise God for:

Children
And she conceived again, and bare a son: and she said, Now will I praise the LORD: … Genesis 29:35

Food
But in the fourth year all the fruit thereof shall be holy to praise the LORD withal. Leviticus 19:24

Sight
And immediately he received his sight, and followed him, glorifying God: and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise unto God. Luke 18:43

You
I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. Psalm 139:14

Protection
Praise ye the LORD for the avenging of Israel, when the people willingly offered themselves. Judges 5:2

His Power
Be thou exalted, LORD, in thine own strength: so will we sing and praise thy power. Psalm 21:13

His Loving kindness
Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Psalm 63:3

His Mercy
Praise ye the LORD. O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever. Psalm 106:1

His Truth
I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name. Psalm 138:2

His Goodness
Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men! Psalm 107:8

All His mighty words
And when he was come nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen; Luke 19:37


When should we praise God:

Every morning and night
And to stand every morning to thank and praise the LORD, and likewise at even; 1Chronicles 23:30

Continually
I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. Psalm 34:1

Before people
I will give thee thanks in the great congregation: I will praise thee among much people. Psalm 35:18

Every day
Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever. Psalm 145:2

How should we praise God:

With our whole being
I will praise thee, O LORD, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works. Psalm 9:1

In song
The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him. Psalm 28:7

Don’t be silent in your praise
To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever. Psalm 30:12

With instruments
Praise the LORD with harp: sing unto him with the Psalmltery and an instrument of ten strings. Psalm 33:2

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

Fill your hearts and mind with praise to God. Spend a few minutes just meditating on His greatness. You will be amazed at how many things you can praise God for.

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Behaving wisely

1 Samuel 18:5, 14, 30
And David went out whithersoever Saul sent him, and behaved himself wisely: and Saul set him over the men of war, and he was accepted in the sight of all the people, and also in the sight of Saul's servants.
[14] And David behaved himself wisely in all his ways; and the Lord was with him.
[30] Then the princes of the Philistines went forth: and it came to pass, after they went forth, that David behaved himself more wisely than all the servants of Saul; so that his name was much set by.

While looking through my notes I came across these verses. Three times in I Samuel 18, it is mentioned that David behaved himself wisely. David apparently had a plan. He would act right no matter what.

Have you ever thought of what you would do in certain situations? You need to have a plan. What will you do when a sinful thought flashes through your mind? Do you dwell on it or do you pray and ask the Lord to take it away? You need to have a plan. What do you do when temptation flares its ugly head? You need to have a plan. We need to fill our minds with the word of God. Meditate on the Word, know what the Word says about different subjects. Do you have a problem with a certain sin? The Bible is filled with counsel.

Behaving wisely begins in the mind. We need to think and pray before we put our mouth or body into action. Do you behave yourself more than anyone you work with? Do you stand out in a crowd because of character? Can people tell you are a Christian because of your words and actions? David’s name “was much set by”; others could tell that he followed the Lord.

The majority of us spend so much time thinking and worrying about everything. I know in my own life I need to put those thoughts aside and dwell on the Word of God. Memorizing and meditating on verses is a good place to start. Philippians 4:8 is a great starting point.
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

We need to behave ourselves more wisely than those around us. Psalm 101:2 says, I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.

Should we “behave” only when someone is watching – no! God is always watching.

Lord, help me to keep you in all my thoughts. Show me how to behave wisely in all situations. When my mind starts to wander lead me back to dwell on your goodness and grace. Thank you for what you are doing in my life. In Jesus name. Amen.

Have a great day.
Donna