Marriage Monday

What was your mother's best marriage advice to you? Wow, my dear momma gave me so much wonderful advice concerning my marriage, and I will be forever grateful for that. But, if I have to pick the greatest advice she ever gave me concerning marriage, it would be this: Love your husband the same way that God loves you. Unconditionally, and eternally. There should be no strings attached on your love for your husband, or time limits on your love. Sadly, marriage seems to have become something that so many easily dispose of, and move on to another one. Not me, I made vows before God, and I intend to keep them. For better, for worse, in sickness, and in health. Until death , do we part. Amen, amen.

Growing Up Mondays

Pray for your church, its pastors and leaders — The Apostle Paul explained that it is the duty of Christians to pray for all who are in authority, especially those in spiritual authority. "I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence" (1 Tim. 2:1-2). Your church leaders are on the cutting edge of the battle with Satan, and will face temptations and spiritual conflict unlike anything you could imagine. The devil knows that if he can topple a spiritual leader or get him discouraged enough to quit, it will have a domino effect on the rest of the church. You can be a tremendous help by praying fervently for your church, and especially for the pastor and his family.

Especially helpful, attend the church prayer meetings, where you can come into agreement with others, and where the pastors and leaders can see, and feel your prayer support for them and the church. God promised special strength through the combined prayer of His children. "Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven" (Matt. 18:19).

Let It Go

There are people who can walk away from you.

And hear me when I tell you this! When people can walk away from you: let them walk.

I don't want you to try to talk another person into staying with you,  loving you, calling you, caring about you, coming to see you, staying attached to you. I mean hang up the phone.

When people can walk away from you... let them walk.

Your destiny is never tied to anybody that left.

The Bible said that, they came out from us that it might be made manifest that they were not for us.

For had they been of us, no doubt they would have continued with us. [1 John 2:19]

People leave you because they are not joined to you.  And if they are not joined to you, you can't make them stay.

Let them go.
 
 And it doesn't mean that they are a bad person, it just means that their part in the story is over. And you've got to know when people's part in your story is over so that you don't keep trying to raise the dead.

You've got to know when it's dead.

You've got to know when it's over.  Let me tell you something. I've got the gift of good-bye. It's the tenth spiritual gift, I believe in good-bye. It's not that I'm hateful, it's that I'm faithful, and I know whatever God means for me to have He'll give it to me.

And if it takes too much sweat... I don't need it.

Stop begging people to stay.

Let them go!!

If you are holding on to something that doesn't belong to you and was never intended for your life, then you need to......

LET IT GO!!!

If you are holding on to past hurts and pains .....

LET IT GO!!!

If someone can't treat you right, love you back, and see your worth.....

LET IT GO!!!

If someone has angered you ........

LET IT GO!!!

If you are holding on to some thoughts of evil and revenge.

LET IT GO!!!

If you are involved in a wrong relationship or addiction......

LET IT GO!!!

If you are holding on to a job that no longer meets your needs or talents ...

LET IT GO!!!

If you have a bad attitude.......

LET IT GO!!!

If you keep judging others to make yourself feel better......

LET IT GO!!!

If you're stuck in the past and God is trying to take you to a new level in Him......

LET IT GO!!!

If you are struggling with the healing of a broken
relationship.......

LET IT GO!!!

If you keep trying to help someone who won't even try to help themselves......

LET IT GO!!!

If you're feeling depressed and stressed ......

LET IT GO!!!

If there is a particular situation that you are so
used to handling yourself and God is saying "take your hands off of it," then you need to......

LET IT GO!!!

Let the past be the past.   Forget the former things.
GOD is doing a new thing for 2005!!!
 
LET IT GO!!!
 
Get Right or Get Left .. think about it, and then ...

LET IT GO!!!

"The Battle is the Lord's!"

Saturday Psalm And Praise

5 Things Friday-5 Favorite Desserts

My five favorite desserts: 1) Dairy Queen vanilla ice cream cone 2) Strawberry Shortcake 3) Carrot Cake 4) Blueberry Cheesecake 5) Shortbread Cookies

Thankful Thursday-Rescue

Thank You Lord for rescuing me time after time. You are my ultimate 911, I can always depend upon You to come running to my rescue every time I call. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and though the rivers, they will not overflow you. … For I am the Lord your God ..." (Isaiah 43:2-3a): Amen, so many times in my life, the waters have risen quickly, I have been pulled under, into the deep dark waters. Just as I thought my life was ending, I heard His sweet voice speaking to me. Call out to Me, that is all you have to do, call out My name. When you are in trouble, I will rescue you, just call Me. So, I lift my voice time after time, and I begin to cry like a little child, crying for their daddy. I cry out to my Daddy, help me!! help me!! I cannot do this alone any more, I need You. I am broken in every way, in desperate need of repair. Beaten down physically, spiritually, emotionally, and mentally. Please lift me up, and carry me for a little while Daddy. Can You hear the cry of my heart? Please rescue me, please. Guess what? My Daddy always hears my heart calling, and comes quickly with His love, comfort, strength, healing, forgiveness, whatever is needed to repair me. He lifts me up, He refuses to let me stay down. Thank You my forever 911 rescuer. I love You beyond measure.

Word Filled Wednesday

The Proverbial Sunrise- Hope

Praise the Lord, you angels of His;
praise His glory and His strength.
Praise Him for His majestic glory,
the glory of His name.
Come before Him clothed in sacred garments.
The voice of the Lord echoes from the clouds.
The God of glory thunders through the skies.
So powerful is His voice; so full of majesty.
Psalm 29:1-4

I find three major themes in today's passage:

1. Praising God is fun.
   
2. God clothes us with His glory.
   
3. God speaks through the thunder.

First, let's talk about praise. Psalm 134:2 says, "Lift your hands in holiness and bless the Lord." Twelve years ago when I attended a retreat called "The Walk to Emmaus" twelve years ago, I was astonished when people began raising their hands in praise to God. I was a little hesitant at first, but as the weekend progressed my hands went higher and higher. Now, even people in the church I attend raise their hands in praise to God. David said in Psalm 28:2, "Lord, I lift my hands to heaven and implore your help. Oh, listen to my cry." When we make a conscious choice to praise Him or seek His help and raise our hands in total abandonment to Him, He fills us with joy!

Now, let's talk about garments. Isaiah 61:10 says it best, "Let me tell you how happy God has made me! For He has clothed me with garments of salvation and draped about me the robe of righteousness. I am like a bridegroom in his wedding suit or a bride with her jewels." God clothes us with His salvation and adorns us with the robe of righteousness, not because we are good, but because He loves us. However, He allows us the choice, will we wear these marvelous garments, or will we continue to put on sack cloth and ashes or a garment of heaviness?

Okay, now the thunder part. Psalm 81:7 says, "When you were in trouble, you called, and I saved you. I answered you with thunder." Max Lucado says God speaks to us with a voice of "Gentle Thunder." Many times during praise and worship I long to hear God's voice echo through the room; to feel the thunder of His majesty. Instead, I hear a silent voice assuring me of His love for His pleasure in me. Yet, one day, He will again speak with that voice of thunder as all men are drawn into His presence at the judgment.

So, as we lift our hands in praise, put on garments of righteousness, and listen for the gentle thunder of His voice, we can experience His hope. There is hope in the gentle hands of God.

Growing Up Monday

Commit yourself to love the Lord and your brethren — The Bible teaches that all the desires of God are condensed into only two cardinal commandments that Jesus gave to His followers. He said, "...You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself" (Luke 10:27). By clothing ourselves in God's love, we help the church to reinforce this objective for every believer, and we also help to eliminate the elements of conflict and division which can hinder the unity of the church. "I... beseech you to have a walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace" (Eph. 4:1-3).

Focus On Missions

Connie Jarlsberg

Serving in medical ministries in Uganda and U.S.

Current Ministry Update

For the next three years, Connie will be working with Nurses Christian Fellowship (NCF), a ministry of InterVarsity Christian Fellowship in partnership WorldVenture. Since 1935 NCF has been encouraging practicing nurses, nursing students and faculty to integrate their Christian faith and nursing practice.

The purpose of NCF is to assist nurses and students to grow in Christian character, representing Jesus to patients and colleagues, shaping nursing from a Christian worldview, creating excellence in patient care and responding to the call to care for people of every ethnicity and culture in Christ's name.

Connie will also challenge Christian nurses to consider becoming the next generation of missionary nurses for WorldVenture.



Fast Facts

Birthday: (5/21)
Education: Diploma in nursing, St. Mary's School of Nursing, Madison, Wisconsin; B.S.N., University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; M.S.N. in burn emergency and trauma, Widener University, Chester, Pennsylvania; certificate in biblical studies, Trinity Evangelical School of Theology, Deerfield, Illinois; tropical medicine, Prince Leopold Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
Appointed: June 1990
Home Church: Highland Park Baptist Church, Southfield, Michigan

Ministry-at-a-Glance

Primary Ministry Focus: Connie works in the Missions Department of Nurses Christian Fellowship challenging nurses to be open to God's call to use their nursing skills to reach the world for Christ.
Major Challenges: While Connie continues to be a missionary with WorldVenture, she will be based in the U.S. and traveling to Africa to visit WorldVenture's medical ministries and hopefully have opportunities to take students and practicing nurses on visions trips.
Prayer Focus: Pray for Connie as she develops this new role. Pray for open hearts among nurses allowing them to see how they might partner with the Great Physician in bringing not only physical healing but eternal life to the people to whom they provide care.

Projects Land for Kampala Baptist Chrch

Our Daily Bread

The elderly woman didn't like the way her pastor prayed each Sunday morning, so she told him. It bothered her that before he preached he would confess to God that he had sinned the week before. "Pastor," she said, "I don't like to think my pastor sins."

We'd like to believe that our spiritual leaders don't sin, but reality tells us that no Christian is exempt from the burdens of the sinful nature. Paul told the believers at Colosse to "put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature" (Col. 3:5 niv). The problem is that sometimes we don't do that. We yield to temptation, and we're left with a mess. But we are not left helpless. We have a pattern to follow for restoration.

That pattern comes from the heart and pen of King David, whose sin demonstrated the sad consequences of succumbing to temptation. Look closely at Psalm 51 as David owned up to his sin. First, he flung himself at God's feet, pleading for mercy, acknowledging his sin, and trusting in God's judgment (vv.1-6). Next, he sought cleansing from the One who forgives and wipes the slate clean (vv.7-9). Finally, David asked for restoration with the Holy Spirit's help (vv.10-12).

Is sin stealing your joy and blocking your fellowship with the Lord? Like David, turn it over to Him. — Dave Branon

Our sinful ways can sap our joy
And isolate us from the Lord;
Confession and repentance, though,
Provide the way to be restored. —Sper

Repentance clears the way for us to walk with God.

Book Review- Love And Respect

I found this book to be on par with John Gray’s Men are From Mars; Women are from Venus book. Dr. Eggerichs discusses the differences between men and women and how each needs to be more in touch with what the other one needs. When men attempt to treat their wives as they would want to be treated, they inevitably end up doing the “wrong” thing and when women attempt to love their husband as they want to be loved, they also do the “wrong” thing. If you are a Christian, you will be pleased that Dr. Eggerichs bases his book on Biblical scriptures. If you do not consider yourself a religious person, I don’t believe the scripture verses take anything away from the message.
Dr. Eggerichs mainly focuses on the woman’s need for love and the man’s corresponding need for respect. He says that there is a “Crazy Cycle” where when men feel disrespected, they withdraw their love from the relationship and when women feel unloved, they withdraw their respect from the relationship. In relationships where this cycle has been raging, it is difficult to find someone willing to break the cycle because he or she finds it hard to believe that if the husband is more loving toward his wife, she will respond with less criticism and more respect. Similarly, if the wife is more respectful toward her husband, he will respond with more loving behavior.
Dr. Eggerichs calls this the “Energizing Cycle” and he supports it with very specific behaviors each gender must use. He says women need C-O-U-P-L-E, while husbands need C-H-A-I-R-S. Yes, these are acronyms for spelling love to the wife and respect to the husband. All of what he says appears to be in line with what I believe is true of the majority of men and women in relationships. I found this book to be very helpful.

Saturday Psalm And Praise

Psalm 27
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? When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell.Though a host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to enquire in His temple.For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion: in the secret of His tabernacle shall He hide me; He shall set me up upon a rock.And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in His tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the Lord.Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice: have mercy also upon me, and answer me.When Thou saidst, Seek ye My face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, Lord, will I seek.
Hide not Thy face far from me; put not Thy servant away in anger: Thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up teach me Thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies.Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies: for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty.I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: Wait, I say, on the Lord. = Amen, wait upon the Lord. Do not run off and try to do things your own way, in your own strength. You will only be setting yourself up for failure. God will pour His strength into you, and you will become mighty in Him. You will be able to face those giants in your life, and easily defeat them. Wait, I say, upon the Lord my friend.

5 Things Friday-5 Favorite Sayings

My favorite sayings that I constantly say are: 1) Woo Hoo!! 2) I love my lovebug 3) Give Jesus some praise!! 4) Raise your hands, and give some praise. 5) Oh yea!!

Thankful Thursday- Friends

Welcome to another Thankful Thursday, I pray everyone is doing well. The theme today is friends, how wonderful. I am so grateful for all of my friends, church friends, and of course my bloggie friends. You have all touched my heart in such amazing ways. You have faithfully followed my adventures in life, and I appreciate you all for that. I have giant heart prints all over my heart, left by you. thank you my sweet sisters. I am so grateful that God allowed our paths to cross via the Internet, you are all sweet blessings to me. I consider you precious drops of honey in my life's honey pot, each day I get big doses of your love and friendship. I pray that I have been half the friend that you have, and continue to be to me. Of course, when I think of friends, I also think of my church family, they are all heart blessings to me. I love praising God together with them. No way can I forget my lovebug, he is my best buddy for life. Sharing life with him is an honor, and a true privilege. Last, but certainly not least, and definitely first place in my life, is my Saviour. He is my dearest, and truest friend. He fills my heart, and soul with His love and friendship. When the whole world chooses to walk away, He remains standing there, filling in all the empty gaps. There is none like Him, no one even comes close. Thank You my lifetime, forever friend. I love You, I love You. By the way, I have a new blog, here is the link: http://prayersgoup.blogspot.com/ if any of you ever need me to pray for you, I would be honored to. Just send your prayer need to my email: shortybear63@bellsouth.net

Ladies On A Mission

I am participating in "Ladies on a Mission" for the next 7 days.
If you wish to find out more about Ladies on a Mission, here are a few links to check out:
Introduction
Lay It All Down Guidelines
A few participants (it's not too late to join in)
So, I hope that you will choose to join in with us for a 7 day adventure and lay it all down ...for good.

Word Filled Wednesday

The Proverbial Sunrise- Hope

"...And now, Lord, what do I wait for and expect? My hope and expectation are in You..." - Psalm 39: 7

Our hope and expectation should only be in the Lord. He is the only one in this world that is stable and sure. Everything else is on shaky ground. It's sometimes hard to have hope, while everything around us seems to crumble, or is uncertain. The Lord is our pillar. He is our fortress. He cannot be shaken, and can be trusted completely.

If you've lost hope in this world, hope in Jesus. He won't let you down.

When hope is placed in Jesus Christ
We have more meaning to our lives

Grow Up Monday

How To Be A Help To Your Church. Be faithful to attend and participate — Commit yourself to the church and let them know they can count on you. Obviously you can’t be of much help if you don’t show up, or take part. Some people underestimate their value of simply being present. Joining together with others adds to their encouragement, and it encourages the leaders, and the pastor who have prayed and prepared all week to minister to you (Heb. 10:24-25). It helps your pastor and the whole church for you to come faithfully, and on time. And don’t merely sit there like a bump on a log. Be friendly, put a smile on your face, and enter into the service by singing and worshiping. You can even utter an audible Amen or two when the pastor makes a good point. Go ahead, it’ll make his day!

Focus On Missions

How to pray for missionaries — Prayer and missions

"Pray for us." -- Hebrews 13:18

Making your "concerts of prayer" effective: Praying for world evangelism's front-line workers

Want to know how to pray for those working to fulfill Jesus' Great Commission among those yet unreached?

You can use your fingers as memory aids when you pray for missions. Here's how those fingers become prayer points:

1. Thumb
   Since your thumb is nearest to you, begin by praying for those missionaries closest to you. They are the easiest ones to remember. C.S. Lewis said that praying for those we love is a "sweet duty."
   
2. Index or pointing finder
   Let your "pointing finger" remind you to pray for missionaries who teach, instruct, and heal. This includes teachers, doctors, and evangelists. They need support and wisdom for pointing others in the right direction.
   
3. Middle finger
   Our tallest finger reminds us of our church leaders. We can never pray too much for them. Pray for those who supervise and direct missionary outreach.
   
4. Ring finger
   Surprisingly, the ring finger is our weakest finger (as any piano teacher will testify). This weak finger reminds us to pray for those missionaries who are discouraged, in trouble, or in pain.
   
5. Little finger
   Our little finger is the smallest finger of all, which is where we should place our individual wants and desires in relation to world evangelism needs. The Bible says, "The least shall be the greatest among you." Your pinkie should remind you to pray for the people of the world who have the greatest need to find Jesus. Pray that they will open their eyes and see Him.
   
   --Author unknown

Seven things all missionaries need . . . and which people forget to lift them up in prayer over:

1. Victory over mental stagnation
   
2. Freshness in prayer and in Bible teaching
   
3. Guidance in how to present the Gospel
   
4. Deliverance from the temptation to pride
   
5. Wisdom in relationships with other missionaries
   
6. Strength to overcome temptations brought on by loneliness
   
7. A saving sense of humor

From a missionary: Specifics to pray for

When traveling . . .

• That missionaries will pass effortlessly through customs and immigration lines
  
• That the planes on which missionaries travel will not encounter mechanical problems or trouble from terrorists
  
• That our missionaries will make all their connections

Health and safety objectives

• Protection for the missionaries from accidents, crime, natural disasters, terrorists, and dangerous animals
  
• Protection for the missionaries from sickness
  
• That missionaries will find time for proper sleep, rest, and exercise
  
• That missionaries' food and water needs will be met

Spiritual watchcare objectives

• Times of intimacy for missionaries with Jesus in Bible, prayer and worship
  
• Shielding for the missionaries from dark forces in spiritual realms
  
• Preservation for missionaries from discouragement, fear, and doubt
  
• That missionaries will demonstrate purity, humility, boldness, wisdom, patience, love for people, a teachable spirit and the power of the Holy Spirit

Teamwork objectives

• That teams of missionaries will experience and express unity, love, good communication, patience, and spiritual gifts
  
• That missionaries will resist temptations toward jealousy, envy, bitterness, and pride
  
• That missionaries will be granted grace for cultural adjustments, dealing with jet lag, being away from family and friends and lack of privacy
  
• For missionaries to have wisdom to design and implement effective efforts that will make a long-term difference here . . . and that they will be able to establish and maintain a solid friendship with government officials and other leaders in their chosen land.

BLESS -- an acronym to guide your prayer for a missionary

B -- Body

Pray for physical health and nutrition.

L - Labor.

Pray for their work.

E - Emotions.

Pray for emotional health and well-being of the missionary

S - Social.

Pray for their social relations, their families and extended families. Pray that God will keep marriages together.

S - Spiritual.

Pray for their spiritual condition.

Prayer For Today

Dear Lord:

I thank You for this day. I thank You for my being able to see and to hear this morning. I'm blessed because You are a forgiving God and an understanding God. You have done so much for me, and You keep on blessing me.

Forgive me this day for everything I have done, said or thought, that was not pleasing to you. I ask now for Your forgiveness.

Please keep me safe from all danger and harm.

Help me to start this day with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude. Let me make the best of each and every day to clear my mind so that I can hear from You.

Please broaden my mind that I can accept all things. Let me not whine and whimper over things I have no control over. Let me continue to see sin through God's eyes, and acknowledge it as evil.

And when I sin, let me repent, and confess with my mouth my wrongdoing, and receive the forgiveness of God.

And when this world closes in on me, let me remember Jesus' example, to slip away and find a quiet place to pray. It's the best response when I'm pushed beyond my limits. I know that when I can't pray, You listen to my heart. Continue to use me to do Your will.

Continue to bless me that I may be a blessing to others.

Keep me strong that I may help the weak. Keep me uplifted that I may have words of encouragement for others. I pray for those that are lost and can't find their way.

I pray for those that are misjudged and misunderstood. I pray for those who don't know You intimately. I pray for those that don't believe. But I thank You that I believe. I believe that God changes people, and God changes things. I pray for all my sisters and brothers. For each, and every family member in their households.

I pray for peace, love and joy in their homes that they are out of debt, and all their needs are met.

I pray that every eye that reads this knows there is no problem, circumstance, or situation greater than God.

Every battle is in Your hands for You to fight. I pray that these words be received into the hearts of every eye that sees them, and every mouth that confesses them willingly.

This is my prayer. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Saturday Psalm And Praise

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 -- Yes, the Lord is my strength, and my shield. I trust Him with all of my heart, and He always helps me, in all ways. He brings such joy to my heart, and I love to sing praise songs to Him, and dance before Him with my praise. I love You Lord.

Fearless Friday

Please keep the following precious ones in your prayers: Pia- Restoration of marriage, and complete healing of her moms diabetes. Angie- Employment for her husband Randy, financial well being of her family. Vicki- Healing of her husbands prostate cancer. Tom- Healing of his moms lung cancer. Angie- Hormone issues. Marsha- Hormone issues. Ann- Upcoming cancer surgery. Ron- Healing from physical problems. My brother Jim- Salvation. My sister Vickie- Healing of diabetes, and kidney failure. My Dad- He is very unhappy with his job.

5 Things Friday-5 Things I Know For Sure

1) I know for sure that God loves me. 2) I know for sure that I love God. 3) I know for sure that my lovebug and I will be together, until death do we part. Even then, our love will live on. 4) I know for sure there is a heaven. 5) I know for sure that I will forever praise God.

Thankful Thursday- Hope

Thanks Iris for another great theme this week, sweet blessings to you. I want to always keep hope alive in me, because my hope comes from God, and I want everyone to know that. More importantly, I want everyone to know my God. When heartaches, and troubles come your way, and they will my friends, reach out to Him, He will take your troubles, and give you hope in return. He is the reason I have never given up, or ever will. I keep my eyes focused upon Him, not the world, my redemption draws near. I am sick so much of the time, but I refuse to let go of hope. I worry about my dear lovebug, he is such a wonderful man. But, every time I get sick, or I find out that I have another medical condition, he gets really upset. He always says, why you? It is not fair, you have enough problems, why is God doing this to you? I want Him to heal you, not give you more burdens to carry. I know lovebug loves me very much, and he worries about me. But, I want him to replace his negativity with hope. God is not punishing me, or overburdening me at all. My medical problems are not God's fault, He hates to see me suffer. He is my Physician that watches over me, and gives me daily strength to carry on. He never leaves my side, He holds my hand through everything I endure. God is my healer, in His time, if He chooses, He will heal me. If He never chooses to heal me, I am fine with that. There is a reason for everything that happens in this world, God knows what He is doing, and why. I am not the only one in the world with medical problems, so many precious ones suffer daily. My hearts prayer, is that instead of letting your problems take control of your life, allow God to control your life. Believe me, once you do, God will show you that there is no problem to big for Him to handle. I love You Lord, and I praise You for being my hope.

Question

Help!! Is anyone having problems seeing the blogs you follow? It keeps saying that I am not following any blogs, which is so not true. Please let me know if you are having this problem, or how to fix this problem. Thank you.

Word Filled Wednesday

The Proverbial Sunrise- Hope

My hope is built on nothing less
than Jesus Christ, my righteousness;
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
but wholly lean on Jesus' name: I have always loved that song, filled with such beautiful truth. Jesus is my life, my only hope. If I take my eyes off of Him, I begin to quickly sink , like the Titanic. But, if I hold strong to my Anchor, never letting my feet slip off the Solid Rock, I can face any storms that come my way. My hope is in Jesus, yesterday, today, and forever.

What In-Courages You?

Have you heard about (in)encourage? It's a new website that begins today, August 10, 2009.There are about 20 bloggers who will be writing for (in)courage and they describe it as:
"When we asked ourselves what kind of place we were building, we finally came to see it as a bit like a beach house. You can put your sandy, dirty feet on the coffee table, laugh late into the night with friends, and also hear God’s voice clearer than perhaps anywhere else. Life just feels more vibrant and real, as if you’ve stumbled upon a glimpse of heaven and it’s nothing like you ever imagined but everything you’d always hoped."
The Christian subsidiary of Hallmark is Dayspring and (in)courage is a part of this.
Today, they're inviting bloggers to share what encourages them. I thought it would be fun to participate so here's my list: 1) Gods word 2) My Lovebug 3) My Pastor 4) My church family 5)My blogging sisters 6) My sister 7) Gods beautiful creation 8) The hope of heaven 9) Laughter 10) Hugs You can join in and link up on (in)courge.

Growing Up Monday

Today I'm joining with sweet Joanne at Blessed for a new meme! Growing Up! Monday...
Please be sure to stop by and read her post and link up with the others who are adding their voices. I love my church so very much, my christian sisters and brothers are awesome. I cannot say enough about my pastor, he is flowing with Jesus juice. At my church, there is not a choir, we have a praise band, and praise singers. My pastor is part of the praise band, and singers. He plays the guitar, writes songs, and sings beautifully. Music is so precious to me, I love to worship my Lord with song and dance. Sundays are filled with lots of happy Jesus juice flowing all over my church. Praise the Lord, from whom all blessings flow.

Focus On Missions

Gary & Carol Zupkas

Compassion ministry to the orphans in Lithuania

Fast Facts

Birthdays: Gary (10/25), Carol (9/6)
Anniversary: (7/12)
Education: Gary: B.A. in English, Utica College of Syracuse University, New York; graphic design, Art Center, Los Angeles, California. Carol: B.A. in drama with emphasis in English literature, San Diego State University, California; teaching credentials – English and social studies
Missions Experience: Five summer mission trips to Lithuania
Endorsed: July 2006
Home Church: New Hope Church of Penasquitos, San Diego, California



Ministry-at-a-Glance

Primary Ministry Focus: Offering hope and help as "graduated" orphans face their future.
The People: The orphanage system fosters a dependency cycle where there are now third-generation orphans. Teenagers released two weeks before their 18th birthday have few life skills. Considered societal outcasts, they often fall prey to prostitution, drug addiction, crime and suicide.
Major Challenges: Orphans need faith in God, and they need mentoring, modeling and discipleship to help them discover meaning and purpose for their lives.
Prayer Focus: Pray for them to know that they are loved and valued, and for active faith to reach and fulfill their God-ordained destiny.

Word For Sunday

Saturday Psalm And Praise- Psalm 34:1-3

1) I will bless the Lord at all times, His praise shall continually be in my mouth. 2) My soul shall make its boast in the Lord, the humble shall hear of it and be glad. 3) Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together. : Is God's praise continually in your mouth? Or only occasionally? Do you brag about your Father to everyone you see? If not,make a change today my friend. Start lifting Him up, give Him the praise He desires, and very much deserves. Let His praise flow freely from your mouth like streams of living waters, there are so many thirsty souls longing for a drop of the precious living water. I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, Oh Lord, I exalt Thee.

Five Things Friday

Jean over here asks us to list 5 of our favorite summer time activities. So here goes:
1. Watergun fights with my husband, lol
2. Swimming.
3. Picnics
4. Outdoor movies at the park.
5. Watermelon, yummy.
Well, there you have my list. Go by and visit Jean, and read what others like about Summer.

Fruitful Fridays

Well today is the first of Fruitful Fridays.
So what did you do this week, to show love and be fruitful? I sent several cards, and emails this week trying to encourage people. I had several conversations on the phone with my sister trying to cheer her up, and show love and encouragement. I helped one of my neighbors carry their groceries in.

Fearless Friday- Prayer Needs

1) Cindy passed away on Monday, please keep her dear family in your prayers. 2) Alleluiabelle, please pray for the physical, emotional, and spiritual well being of her, and her dear husband Ron.
3) Allison, she is recovering from bells palsy. 4) Pia, please pray for the restoration of her marriage, and for a deeper relationship with God. 5) Tammy, please pray for the health of her sister. 6) Angela, please pray for financial, and spiritual well being. 7) Karen, please pray for Gods leading in her life, and for her prayer ministry. 8) Valeria Lynn, please pray for her son that has autism. They are trying to get SSI for him, and services for people with special needs. 9) Abby, please pray for the well being of this precious child. 10) Stellan, please continue to pray for this dear one. 11) My friend Tom, his mother is dealing with lung cancer. 12) Lorraine,
Lorraine is 75 years old and had air and fluid building up on, and in the brain. They had to perform 2 brain surgeries to get it all removed, but in the process they removed part of her brain. She has 300 stitches just on her brain!
Tuesday the doctor put in a pig line into her stomach (a feeding tube) so she could start receiving nourishment.
Wednesday afternoon they performed a tracheotomy, and slowly weaned her off of the respirator. By Wednesday night she was breathing on her own, but it was labored, so she is on oxygen.
Today she opened her eyes briefly and when her daughter spoke to her, she asked Lorraine to squeeze her hand twice if she knew who she was. Lorraine weakly squeezed back!
It does appear she is coming out of a coma, but the extent of the damage, and what she can and can not do is yet to be known.
Please continue to pray for her to come out of the a coma, and for wisdom for the medical staff treating here.

Please Pray For This Family

Cindy passed away peacefully on Monday August 3rd 2009. She was surrounded by family; her husband Howard, and oldest son Wesley, held her hands. Her funeral will be held Thursday August 6th, at 2:00 pm in her beloved church.Cindy had completed her final blog, but we are unable to locate it at this time. We will post the blog as soon as we can.Thanks to all of you for your continued prayers and well wishes.Cindy's family

Thankful Thursday-Joy

Iris chose joy as the theme this week, how precious. The joy of the Lord is my strength, daily He puts a smile on my face, and in my heart. I feel so blessed to partake in the joy of the Lord, His joy fills me up to overflowing. Anytime I feel my tank is running low, He pours more joy in my life. I love to praise dance, it is a way of expressing my joy to the Lord. I do not dance in a praise group at church, just by myself at home. I just dance my heart out, hoping to show my deep and endless love to my Lord. He brings such joy into my life, I want to give joy back to Him. When I do not feel well, which is quite often, I hold on tightly to my joy. I refuse to let satan steal my joy, he really tries to rob me of every ounce of joy I have. But, he cannot, and will not succeed. The more satan tries to steal my joy, the more I have to be joyful for. Making satan lose, brings much joy to my heart. I will forever shout for joy, sing for joy, raise my hands for joy, and dance, dance, dance. I've got the joy, joy, joy deep down in my heart, and I will let it overflow onto others as often as I can.

Walk With Him Wednesday- How The Word Lives

“Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever” (1st Peter 1:23). The word of God is not merely a book, the word of God is alive! Notice the words, “...which liveth and abideth forever.” It is alive because Christ is alive. The Bible is the “seed” in our heart that can sprout into new spiritual life. This can only happen by the power of God’s Holy Spirit. Whether or not the seed dies, or lives is dependent upon you. The seed is the gospel of Jesus Christ. If you believe upon Christ, then the seed of God’s word has sprung new life in you through the holy spirit—God’s holy spirit born in you. You will have been born-again. We as Christians need to remember what Christian means: Christ in me.

Word Filled Wednesday

August theme- Hope

Finding an Anchor for the Storms of Life

The old sailor looked at the skies and saw a dark storm coming. As the sea became rough and choppy, the old salt calmly lowered the heavy-chained anchor link by link, battened down the hatches and went to bed for the night.

He knew the storm would be rough. But he had faith in the grasp of the anchor. He knew his boat would be there in the morning.

Hope Defined

Like that sailor, we have an "anchor" for our lives that can help us stand fast through the storms of life. It's called hope.

In biblical terms, hope is closely allied with faith.

The writer of Hebrews tells us that, faith is "the assurance of things hoped for" (Hebrews 11:1). Hope, therefore, is the object upon which we direct our focus and energies.

To the Christian, hope is the knowledge that we are being changed for the better as we trust in God's promises (Romans 8:28). It is the conviction that no matter the circumstances, God's plans for our lives are "for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope" (Jeremiah 29:11b NLT).

Hope Described

The Bible is full of examples of men and women who hoped in God's promises. The patriarch Abraham is held up for believers as a model of hope.

When Abraham was 75, God promised to bless him and give him many descendants, as numerous as the stars in the sky. Abraham heard these words and believed God (Genesis 15:6).

But despite his belief, Hebrews 6:15 explains, Abraham had to wait 25 years to see the fulfillment of his hope. Yet all the while, Abraham trusted in God, the Author of his hope, until he saw the promise come to pass.

You see, Abraham's hope wasn't in his own ability to father a child. It was rooted in a trustworthy, unchangeable God, and in His eternal promises.

The writer of Hebrews explains that God wants us to take encouragement from His character and hope in Him (Hebrews 6:16-18). In fact, the Scriptures describe this hope "… as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast" (Hebrews 6:19a).

Hope Derailed

What can cause our hope to go sour? Often, we hope in the wrong things. It's so easy to place our hope in the wrong things. It's so easy to place our hope in this material world -- what we can see, taste, touch, and feel. These things are controllable to us. But God says His kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36). In fact, the things of this world do not provide a firm foundation for our lives (Colossians 2:8).

Only when we look to the truly firm foundation for living -- Jesus Christ -- will we find a hope that can anchor our souls. It all begins with our relationship with God. If you have not been "born again," your hope is simply misplaced. If you are feeling hopeless right now, consider where your primary hope is grounded. If it's not in Jesus, come to Him now to find a hope unlike any other.

Jesus offers His hope freely to all who willingly come to Him, acknowledge their sin, and trust in His cleansing blood for eternal life. "I am the resurrection and the life," Jesus said, "He who believes in Me shall live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die" (John 11:25-26a).

Building a Foundation of Hope

Even if you know Jesus as your Savior, you can still lose hope. We learn from Proverbs that "hope deferred makes the heart sick" (Proverbs 13:12). When our hopes are delayed, we can be overcome by a deep sense of despair.

So, how did Abraham do it? How did he remain hopeful for more than two decades? Look at Abraham's relationship with God: he was a friend of God (2 Chronicles 20:7); he was also God's servant (Genesis 26:24); and he was totally obedient (Genesis 22).

You can do the same. Here are four practical steps you can take every day to build a sure foundation of hope that will carry you through the storms of life:

1. Submit yourself to God. God is the source of our hope. Come to Him in humility and He will restore you (1 Peter 5:6-7).

2. Strengthen your faith. Allow God's previously fulfilled promises to renew your hope. God has given us written record of countless ways He has provided hope for believers in centuries past. Look to these marvelous accounts for renewal (1 Chronicles 16:11-21).

3. Trust God's timing. Sometimes God answers our prayers and fulfills our hopes quickly. At other times, for His own divine reasons, He allows us to wait. Remember, it was through faith and patience that Abraham's hope was fulfilled.

4. Thank God today. Though it's arduous to rejoice as we wait for hopes to be fulfilled, rejoicing enables God to perfect us in ways we are unable to see at the time. And this kind of hope, purified in the crucible of waiting, and sometimes suffering, "does not disappoint" (Romans 5:1-5).

As You Pray

Have you lost hope? You can regain lost hope, with Jesus' help. Right now, turn to the Author of all hope and rest in Him.

Pray this prayer:

"Father, forgive me for not seeing You as You truly are. Please use Your Word to encourage me. Help me to hide it in my heart. Let Your Holy Spirit direct me moment-by-moment as I wait in the hope You have given me through our Lord Jesus Christ. In Jesus' name. Amen."

God's Word on Hope

"This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast" (Hebrews 6:29a).

Scriptures for Study

Hebrews 6:10-19, Romans 5:1-11 -- God's precious promise of hope

Job 13:13-16 -- Hopes' perseverance through trials

Psalm 33:13-22 -- Right and wrong objects of hope

Psalm 25:1-11 -- Hope's source of strength

Marriage Monday- Open Topic Poem For My Lovebug

I am blessed because of you, I am blessed because there is you. I am blessed because the two became one. I am blessed to be your bride, and by your side, is where I want to reside. You are my everything, you make my heart sing. Your love I enjoy, it makes my heart dance for joy. When I look into your eyes, I realize, that I won the grand prize. My love for you will never end, on that you can depend.

Mission 4 Monday

Creating a First Aid Kit for your Family

Creating a family first aid kit is an essential to ensuring that in the event of any type of emergency, you can have the supplies that are necessary to treat injuries and any type of sickness that may occur. There are many devastating events that may occur in an unexpected manner when it comes to you, your spouse, and your children. These events may include mild to serious burns, falls, slips, cuts, and even an assortment of sicknesses that are viral or bacterial in basis. There are certain types of situations that simply do not require the attention of a doctor, but do require immediate attention to prevent future complications. This is where a first aid kit comes in handy. In this how-to manual, I will share with you how to go about creating a family first aid kit that can come in handy in the event of these situations.

Over-The-Counter Medications

When creating a family first aid kit, there are many over-the-counter medications that should be included. Always check with your family physician about which over-the-counter meds are safe for your family and to ensure proper dosage. Also make sure to read all warning labels. The following are just ideas what to include and is not intended to diagnose or prescribe. Below are a few medications you may wish to include after consulting with your doctor or health care provider:

• It is important to ensure that you include Aspirin in your kit. This particular medication is effective in reducing fever in individuals with infections in the body, as well as relieving pain associated with a number of illnesses and injuries. In addition to this, taking this can reduce and/or eliminate swelling and various types of inflammation. It acts a natural blood thinner, so it can reduce the possibility that clots will form in the blood when a serious injury occurs, and can even reduce the possibility of heart attack. It is also deemed as an appropriate precautionary measure to preventing stroke in certain individuals.

• Acetaminophen is also an essential when it comes to a first aid kit created for the family. This is especially beneficial to use in place of Aspirin for children and teenagers that are under the age of eighteen. Typically, this drug is used to reduce a fever and also any pain associated with injury and/or illness. This is also an appropriate choice when it comes to women who are attempting to conceive, are pregnant, or are nursing a newborn in the family. It is considered a safety measure and/or alternative for those who are allergic to Aspirin as well.

• Having an Antacid is an important element of a family first aid kit. These types of medications work to eliminate the effects of heartburn, indigestion, and also a stomach that has gone sour by working to balance the acids that are a natural part of the stomach. Users who have ulcers or even mild to severe bouts of gas can benefit from Antacids.

• You should be sure to put some laxatives in your kit as well. These are effective in assisting the proper elimination of waste that accumulates in the body, and reducing the chance for toxins to accumulate in the body. In addition to this, these OTC medications can prove to be helpful in making the stools softer so that little to no discomfort is experienced when it comes to constipation.

Cleansing Agents

When creating a family first aid kit, it is absolutely essential to include cleansing agents. These are products that are typically used in cleaning wounds that have resulted from various types of injuries. Effective cleansing agents include the following:

• Alcohol – This cleansing agent works as a cleansing agent to scrapes, wounds, and more. In addition to this, it can be used on those that have deep muscle and/or bone pain. It is important to ensure that this agent is only used in areas that are ventilated properly. Drinking and/or inhaling this can prove to be quite dangerous.

• Peroxide – This agent is effective when it comes to cleaning the skin, as well as sanitizing various surfaces. In addition to this, it is considered to be an antiseptic that can reduce the development and/or spread of infection in humans and animals alike.

• Antibacterial Soap – This particular type of soap that is effective in eliminating potentially harmful types of bacteria. In addition to this, it kills microbes, which are living organisms that can only be seen through a microscope that cause illnesses and infections to occur.

• Eye Wash – This is a substance that is used to eliminate toxins, chemicals, and other intrusive items from the eyes through the means of flushing. No family first aid kit should be without this powerful cleansing agent for the eyes. Be sure to pack at least one eye wash container for each family member and write their name on the bottle.

Ointments

There are many different types of ointments that should be contained within the first aid kit of a family. The following detail these:

• Antibiotic Ointment – This type of ointment works to prevent infections in wounds that are open, and actually work to promote the overall healing process of those injuries.

• Burn Ointments – This does basically the same thing as the antibiotic ointment in that it helps to prevent and/or eliminate infection, and promote the process of healing. However, it also creates a moisture barrier that is actually soothing to the skin.

Basic Medical Supplies

In addition to the very important items previously mentioned, it is important to ensure that you have certain basic medical supplies when creating a family first aid kit. These include that of:

• An assortment of bandages

• Cloths

• Scissors

• Gauze

• Bandage Tape

• Ace Bandages

• Braces

• Dressings that are Sterile

• Thermometer

• Tweezers

• Warming Blankets

• Flashlights

• Whistles

• And, more!

When to See a Doctor

Many medical emergencies often call for a simple family first aid kit, but there are instances when medical treatment should be sought as soon as possible. It is important that you know and understand when this is necessary so that you may work to protect the individuals of your family. If any of the following is experienced, be sure to seek medical help immediately:

• If it is an emergency that threatens the life of a family member, be sure to call 911 immediately and begin first aid procedures with your family first aid kit.

• If the emergency threatens the actual limbs of an individual, such as the arms, call for urgent assistance.

• If the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, or hands become endangered, it is time for assistance.

• Individuals who may be having a potential stroke or even a heart attack should be seen by a doctor immediately – remember, "Every second counts…."

• If you find that a person is losing a lot of blood, cover the wound and get to the hospital.

If you take the time to follow the guidelines for creating a family first aid kit here, you are likely to discover that you are properly prepared for just about any emergency that your family faces.

Focus On Missions

Bill & Linda Axline

Serving in evangelism, discipleship and leadership training in Macau

Fast Facts

Birthdays: Bill (6/2), Linda (10/27)
Anniversary: (11/3)
Adult Children: Daniel and Sara
Education: Bill: B.S. in secondary education, 1969, Illinois State University; certificate, Multnomah Bible College, 1973, Portland, Oregon; M.Div., 1978, Western Seminary, Portland, Oregon. Linda: B.A. in elementary education, 1968, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley; certificate, 1973, Multnomah Bible College
Appointed: January 2001
Home Church: Lincoln Berean Church, Lincoln, Nebraska


Ministry-at-a-Glance

Primary Ministry Focus: Evangelism, small group discipleship, mentoring and leadership training.
The People: The Axlines minister to university students living and studying in Macau. The greatest proportion of these students has come from many different localities in Mainland China.
Major Challenges: Keeping up with the responsiveness of students in their desire to know God in a meaningful way, and to follow Christ.
Prayer Focus: Students to be firmly established in faith (Colossians 2: 6, 7), to sacrifice willingly to follow Christ, and to abound in love to become fishers of men (Matthew 4:19).

Super Simple Sunday

We will faithfully serve the Lord.

Drops Of Inspiration

Here is the writing prompt for August:
Sometimes your medicine bottle has on it, "shake well before using." That is what God has to do with some of His people. He has to shake them well before they are ever usable.--Vance Havner : Amen to this. I feel I was one of those people. I did not think I was usable of God, but He proofed me wrong. He picked me up, shook me up, and stood me up upon the promises of His love and power. He opened my eyes to the truth, and the truth was, just like that medicine in that bottle would expire if not used, I was going to expire, if I did not open my life up totally to God. I needed to open up, and share my life with others. By letting God work through me, I could be used to encourage others, and help them possibly. God was, and is, the best medicine for me.