Thankful Thursday- We Are Thankful For All Of You

SSI Interview

Hello my sweet friends, hope you are all doing well. Today was my interview with SSI. We have really been praying over this day, and I know alot of you have been praying with us. Things are not looking very good right now, they told me that I will probably not get anything. The reason being that we have too much income!! Can you believe that? What income?? Since January, lovebug has been getting short term disability from his job, which is $175.74 a week. That is our total income. They said if lovebug gets to go back to work in May, our income would be too much, and if he does not get to go back in May, and he starts drawing social security disability, that our income would still be too much. I said, but I am going blind, and I have type 1 diabetes, heart disease, and several other health problems. None of it made a difference. But, you know what? Everything is ok, God is our provider for life. God will see us through this, He will continue to watch over us. Guess what? We do have too much income, we have God's love, and that makes us very rich. Bless you all, please keep praying.

Simple Womans Daybook

Outside my window... is a lovely day, temperature 65.


I am thinking... how very precious my Father God is to me, He meets my every need.


Secondly, I'm thinking about my interview tomorrow afternoon with SSI. Praying everything will work out.


From the kitchen... smelling my roast cooking in the oven, yummy in my tummy.

I am wearing... a dark purple shirt, purple jeans, and tennis shoes.


I am creating... a goodie basket for my sister's birthday, which is april 8.


I am remembering... all of the Easters I spent with my dear momma, missing her.


I am going... up to the laundreymat to do two loads of laundrey, woo hoo, lol


I am reading... my Bible.


I am hoping... that lovebug will get the feeling back in his legs and feet.


I am hearing... John Hagee on television.


Around the house... need to dust and vaccum.


A few plans this week... looking forward to Easter Sunday, going to Church with my dad.

Jehovah Jireh- Praying The Names Of God

JEHOVAH-JIREH MEANS "THE LORD WILL PROVIDE." If God sees our need, His provision is sure. This is what Abraham tells us by the name, Jehovah-jireh, the Lord will provide. Jehovah-jireh was Abraham’s testimony to the goodness, and grace of God in providing a ram to take the place of his son, Isaac, upon the altar of sacrifice. And it is the testimony of every sinner, who sees Christ, as his Substitute, sacrificed upon the altar of divine justice at Mt. Calvary. God’s provision upon the mount was made spontaneously. It was altogether voluntary and free. And the provision God displayed in the fullness of time at Calvary, when He gave His Son to die in the place of sinners, was also voluntary, free, and spontaneous. Christ died for us freely, unsought, undesired, and unwanted. God sent His Son to redeem us, and Christ came to redeem us by His death, simply because He loved us (John 10:15-18; I John 3:16; 4:9-10). The provision God makes is always the very thing needed - "a ram!" Here is a substitute to take Isaac’s place. This is just what was needed, a bloody sacrifice to die in the place of Isaac upon the altar. God knew what we needed; and only He could provide the needed Sacrifice. We needed a Substitute; and Christ our passover, was sacrificed for us (I Cor. 5:7; II Cor. 5:21). And this provision for our need was made by God Himself. Where shall a redemption be found by which it shall be possible for the vast multitude of God’s elect, to be effectually redeemed from death and hell? Such a ransom could only be found by God Himself. And He could find it only in Himself. Since no one else could provide a ransom for our souls, God provided it and said, "Deliver them from going down to the pit: I have found a ransom" (Job 33:24). One other thing that must be noted is this: God’s provision is gloriously effective. Isaac did not die! Like the ram that was slain for Isaac, our Lord Jesus Christ is a burnt offering, acceptable and well-pleasing to God on our behalf (Eph. 5:2). By His one sacrifice, Christ put our sins away.

Thank You Lord

Update

Hello my sweet friends, praying you are all doing well, and are happy. I hope you enjoy the weekend, soaking in the Sonshine. Well, it is time for an update on me, and my lovebug. Health- Lovebug still has no feeling from the waist down, but he is feeling well, and getting stronger. He has another infusion treatment on April 16, and goes back to see his neurologist on May 11. As for my health, my eyes are getting weaker, and the doctor said they will not get better. I go to see my diabetes and thyroid doctor on April 12. At that time, she will either do another ultrasound on my thyroid, or a needle biopsy. Financially, things are really tight right now. Lovebug cannot go back to work until after he sees his doctor on may 11, so right now, the only income we have coming in is $175.74 a week. I am trying to get SSI started due to my eyes, and other health problems. I have an interview with SSI this coming Wednesday, after the interview, I will find out 3-6 weeks later, whether I will be getting a monthly check or not. Please pray that God's will be done in all of this. Our rent is due next Thursday(April1), please pray that we will be able to pay it. I love you all so very much, blessings to you all.

Thankful Thursday

Another thankful Thursday is here, are you ready to give God a cheer? I know I am. Woo Hoo, Go God!! The last week has been very hectic around here, I am trying to get SSI due to my eyes, and other health problems. We have been going to all of my doctors, and getting forms signed by them, and went to the tag and title place to apply for a handicap sticker for our car. Yesterday, I went to the driving center to get my picture taken for a photo ID. I was beginning to get a little overwhelmed with everything, but I crawled up in my Father God's lap for a little rest, and He took care of me, as always. Finding out last week that my eyes will never get better, only worse, made my heart a little sad. But, God is still in control, only He knows what my future holds, not men. Lovebug is taking care of me, and I am taking care of him. Of course, our precious Father is taking care of both of us. I refuse to let satan in my home, or heart. I am not going to be sad, or angry. That would be crazy, God is way to good to me. Life is dimmer these days due to my vision, but God is still shining as brightly as ever in my life. He keeps me closely in His sight, and I am so very thankful for that. I love You Father.

An Open Door Bible Study- Part 4

Find

Anna the prophetess was also there, a daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher. She was by now a very old woman. She had been married seven years, and a widow for eighty four. She never left the Temple area, worshiping night and day with her fastings and prayers. At the very time Simeon was praying, she showed up, broke into an anthem of praise to God, and talked about the child to all who were waiting expectantly for the freeing of Jerusalem. - Luke 2:36-38 MSG

Read Isaiah 40:25-31

25 "To whom will you compare me?
Or who is my equal?" says the Holy One.
26 Lift your eyes and look to the heavens:
Who created all these?
He who brings out the starry host one by one,
and calls them each by name.
Because of His great power and mighty strength,
not one of them is missing.

27 Why do you say, O Jacob,
and complain, O Israel,
"My way is hidden from the LORD;
my cause is disregarded by my God"?

28 Do you not know?
Have you not heard?
The LORD is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary,
and His understanding no one can fathom.

29 He gives strength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak.

30 Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;

31 but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.

What is the byproduct of waiting on the Lord? The Lord will renew me, and make me stronger. He empowers me always.


Take a closer look at verse 31. In what area of your life do you need strength? What is God saying to you through this passage? I need strength with my health. God is telling me to not grow weary, or faint. He will help me to run, and to soar


What dream has God planted deep inside you? What prevents you from realizing that dream? The dream that God has planted deep inside of me is to be a speaker at women's conferences, to spread His love and word. Right now, my husband's health, and financial situation is preventing me from realizing that dream.


Read the scripture passage above. How would you have felt if you had been in Anna's situation? I would have felt that the time for my dream coming true had passed.


Fill in the blanks in the statement that follows:

This stinks. I expected to be "doing so much more at this time in my life." I expected to have "been fulfilling God's purpose " All the rules seem to be changing. I "want to be doing more for the Lord"

What do you expect God to do about your situation? Stay with me Lord, where I am, as long as I am here.

Based on what Anna did, what should you do in response to your situation? Be patient, and wait on the Lord's timing, His timing is perfect.


Feel

Anna had every reason to feel hopeless and useless. Yet, she believed God's promise that she was valuable to Him. How do you know you are valuable to God? How does that make you feel? I know I am valuable to God, He proves that to me daily by watching over me, and carrying me, when I cannot carry myself. Knowing that, makes my heart smile really big. I am very thankful.


Anna prayed that the Messiah would come. For what are you praying, and what do you expect to happen when that prayer is answered? I am praying for lovebugs total healing. When that prayer is answered, there will be much praising, and cheering here at our home. Others will be blessed to see the healing come also.


For what are you watching? How do you expect God to overwhelm your life? I am watching for God to show up, and perform His wonders of healing for my husband, and for me. God always overwhelms my life, He is totally amazing.

Follow:

What is the role of your ongoing relationship with God, in regards to your personal and spiritual expectations? I have put everything in His very capable hands for safe keeping.


How do you discern God's guidance, from your feelings, or the advice of others? I keep my ears, and heart ready for that still, small quiet voice of my precious Lord.


Complete the following statement: Because God said trust...I will be... leaning on the everlasting arms.


Now write a prayer expressing your desire to wait for God's answer to your prayers. Use this prayer as part of your daily time with God, and as an expression of your desire to live with God-honoring patience, as you wait for Him, to reveal His plan to you.
Dear Father God, please continue to be near me, as I go forward on this journey. I believe in You with all I am, I know You hear my prayers, and I am confident that You will answer them, in Your time, which will be the right time. I love You. Amen

Pursuing Love- Anger

Our questions to consider this week are:

1.Do you have the kind of love that overlooks offenses, or do you get easily irritated when your rights are violated? I do not get easily irritated when my rights are violated, my love chooses to overlook offenses.
2.Do you fly off the handle and blow up easily, or do you have the kind of love, that is unchanged by circumstances? My love is not changed by circumstances, life is too short to be angry.
3.Are you easily upset by unpleasant circumstances, that are beyond your ability to control or change? No, God is the One in total control of my life circumstances, there is no need for anger.
4.Do you cast blame, when in reality you are simply being touchy, or thin-skinned?
Do you think God can heal your angry heart? He made the world, of course He can heal your angry heart! I am a very emotional person, but do not cast blame. Anger is from satan, and I refuse to give him a place in my life.

He tells us to put off anger, and to put on forgiveness, self control, kindness, and love.

Praying The Names Of God- El Olam

El-Olam means the Everlasting God
Isaiah 40:28-31 describes Him as the Creator of the ends of the earth who will not grow tired or weary. Isaiah says that those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength, will not grow weary, and not faint.

This name for God begins with ‘El’ which is translated ‘God.’ When it is used with other words to form one of God’s names, it becomes part of the description of God’s character.

Everlasting is a word that brings thoughts of infinity. It goes on forever. What does an everlasting God mean to me? How long is everlasting?

Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. When there was nothing else, at the beginning of time, there was God. He created everything that was created. The earth was formless and empty, and His Spirit hovered over it.

What is the benefit of having a God Who has been here from the beginning of time, and Who will be here until the end of time? Isaiah says that He will not grow weary. He gave strength to Moses and Abraham. He gave strength to Queen Esther and to Ruth. He came to earth as Jesus Christ and healed the sick, fed the hungry, and gave strength to the weak. He gives us His strength today, and we can count on Him to be with us tomorrow.

In a world where it seems that nothing is permanent - beauty and physical strength fades, mothers and fathers desert their children, friends disappoint, national heroes turn into common sinners like the rest of us, financial security disappears with the strike of a pen - nothing is everlasting. Only the Creator of heaven and earth can be counted on. Only El-Olam, the Everlasting God can be counted on to always be in control, and to always be available when we need Him.

The incredible thing is that you and I are eternal beings too. When we believe and trust in Jesus Christ, we are guaranteed an eternal home with our Everlasting Father.

Precious To Me

Blessed

Hello sweet friends, praying you are all having a wonderful weekend. When I saw my sister on Thursday, she gave me ten dollars. She said she wanted me, and lovebug to get something to eat, and go eat it at the park. So, today was such a very beautiful day here in Chattanooga, that is what we did. We each had a cheeseburger, and we shared fries, and a drink. We drove to the park, and had a little picnic. We watched the ducks in the duck pond, they were so lovely. We put a blanket down, and lovebug sat down, leaning against a tree. I laid down, with my head in his lap, it was so nice. We talked about everything, especially about how much we love each other. No matter what our future may hold, we continue to hold on to each other, and Father God, who is holding onto our future with His loving, gentle hands. Thank You Father God, we love You so very, very much.

Update

Well, seeing my sister yesterday was so awesome. We laughed, cried, hugged, hugged, and hugged again. I love her dearly. Praise God, her appointment was very successful. Her eyes are doing great, I am so thankful. Lovebug also had a successful visit, no problems, praise God. More thankfulness. My appointment was not so successful. There is nothing that can be done for my eyes, my vision is 20/200. I am legally blind, and my eyes will not improve with, our without removal of the cataract. Glasses will not improve my vision, so I will not ever be able to wear my glasses again. I had been praying that my vision would improve enough for me to wear my glasses again. My doctor told me to go apply for SSI, that they will help me because I am legally blind. So, next week, I am going to go apply. Please pray for me, I really appreciate your prayers. We went to talk to lovebugs boss yesterday, he told us that lovebug cannot come back to work on lite duty. They only allow you to do that, if you were hurt on the job. He told lovebug to wait until he goes back to see his neurologist on May 11, and see if the doctor will release him to full duty. He said he will not put lovebug back on his old job, he will put him on a job where there is no heavy lifting, or climbing involved. So, lovebug was very disappointed. Lovebug goes today for another infusion treatment. Please pray for our finances for April, and May. May God cover us with His loving care, and protection. I love you all so very much.

Thankful Thursday

I am thankful this week for my precious sister. I do not get to see her very often, and I really miss her. I have not seen her since December when lovebug was in the hospital, but she has been my rock throughout all of this. She constantly calls me, sends me cards and letters, and prays for me. She also sends me goodie bags with snacks, and other surprises. Thursday, she has an eye appointment here in Chattanooga with my eye doctor. Lovebug and I also have eye appointments on Thursday, but our appointments are in the afternoon, my sister has an early morning appointment. We are going over there to meet her, I cannot wait to see her, and give her great big hugs. She said she is bringing me another goodie bag, and I also made her a goodie bag. I copied several bible studies and devotions off of the computer for her, she does not have a computer. I made her several goodies, and I am giving her a card. I am also thankful that I am going to see the eye doctor, praying that he will be able to help me. Also praying that lovebugs examination will be fine. Father God is so very awesome, I praise Him for this smile upon my face, and I pray that you are all blessed with smiles today my friends. I love you all.

An Open Door Bible Study- Part 3

Find

"The strength of the fatherless was crushed. Therefore snares are all around you, and sudden fear troubles you. " - Job 22: 9-10 Describe a situation when your words have been similar to the words in the verse above.

I would have to say it was when the doctor told me that my momma was dying. I was very much trapped in sadness and fear. But, I realized that she would be much better off, and have no more pain or sickness. So, God removed my fears, and replaced them with His sweet peace.


Read John 8:31-36

31To the Jews who had believed Him, Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. 32Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
33They answered Him, "We are Abraham's descendantsa]">[a] and have never been slaves of anyone. How can You say that we shall be set free?"

34Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. 35Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." (NIV)

Why is it so important to be transparent with other people?

It will show them that you are for real, and are not hiding anything. They will know you can be trusted.


God knows everything about us, so why is it important that we be transparent before Him?

God wants us to be who we are, not a fake. He wants us to love Him enough, that we will not be afraid to show our true self to Him.


Consider the questions below, and respond to one or more of them:

What is it that I am afraid people might find out about me?
Why do I keep people at a distance?
Why do I assume that if I let people in they would be disappointed and leave? I assume that people would be disappointed and leave if I let them in, because I find so many things wrong with myself. I feel I would never be good enough in their eyes.





Paul said, "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2). List some people who need you to bear their burdens and those people who have helped carry your burdens. Select one or more people on the list and, if possible, write personal notes of thanks and encouragement. My Father God, of course daily carries my burdens, and I thank Him with all I am. My dear lovebug carries my load, thank you sweetie. My precious blogging sisters and brothers, what would I do without all of you? You constantly pray for me, love me, and so many of you have generously helped us financially. My heart floods with love, appreciation, and prayers for all of you.



Feel

"There are many different reasons we feel a sense of shame, but how we then behave seems very much the same. If we believe there is something deep inside of us that others would reject, we hold ourselves back, or simply vote ourselves out of life. This can lead to depression, addictions, bitterness and despair." (page 31). Why do you think this isn't the life Christ wants from you? He wants us to live a happy, peaceful life. He does not want us shackled to burdens, He wants to set us free, so we can be all we can be in Him, and for Him.


What comes to mind when you think about belonging? Be honest about your feelings. What comes to my mind, when I think about belonging, is being close to someone. Heart to heart, mind to mind, soul to soul. Never having to be alone. Father God has never wanted us to be alone, and He will never leave us lonely.



Describe a time when you have listened to a song, or watched a scene in a movie, and suddenly you are overwhelmed by feelings out of proportion to what is happening around you. How did that experience make you feel? This happens to me quite often, I cry during movies, songs, sometimes even commercials. It makes me feel very emotional, sometimes sad, if it reminds me of someone, or an event in my life.



What do you think God is trying to say to you through those experiences?
That I should not be afraid to show my emotions, let them flow forth. Crying can be healing.


Jesus issues an invitation to anyone who has finally come to the place where she is tired of pretending that everything is fine. Is this an offer you are willing to accept? Why or why not?
I am very willing to accept His invitation, so many times I try to hide my pain. But, when I fall upon my knees, open up my heart totally to Father God, He eases my pain, and gently wipes my tears away.


Follow

God knows everything about you and loves you. What is keeping you from trusting Him with you past, and following Him?

At this point in my life, its quite the opposite, it is because I trust Him that I can let go of things from my past, and follow Him.


Describe a spiritual breakthrough you would like to experience right now.

For me, it would be the fear I have of going blind. Diabetes has taken a great toll on my eyes. They constantly hurt, I am legally blind, they are weak, and getting weaker. I need to place this burden in His hands, and trust Him to take care of my eyes.

Summarize the instructions of John 8:31-36 by completing the following statement, Because Jesus said, "I belong to Him," I will "put my faith in Him."
Now write a prayer asking God to give you the breakthrough you described above. Keep praying the prayer, and believing God for the answer as you spend time with Him in the days to come.


Father God,


Jehovah Rapha, the Lord that heals, you have been faithful in your love and plans for me. Though I do not know the reason why you have not healed me, by me just praying for it, You must have a reason for me to endure this pain for as long as I have. I am praying, Father, that during this time of pain and suffering, You have a purpose for me.

I ask Lord, that you continue to give me a perfect peace about my eyes, and remove all anxiety about them from my heart, mind, and soul. I commit myself, and my health to you Lord, and ask for Your will in my life. I lift these humble requests up in your name Lord, My Jehovah Rapha, In Jesus's name, I pray, ~ AMEN!

Monday Morning Reflections- El Shaddai

El-Shaddai

Definition:

El-Shaddai means God Almighty. El points to the power of God Himself. Shaddai seems to be derived from another word meaning breast, which implies that Shaddai signifies one who nourishes, supplies, and satisfies. It is God as El who helps, but it is God as Shaddai who abundantly blesses with all manner of blessings.

Meaning:

God desires to bless man and provide in abundance all of mans needs. This name is indicative of a God who is powerful enough to do just that. Only an all powerful God can bless all mankind with all manner of blessings.

Scripture Support:

Genesis 17:1,2
And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the Lord appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect. And I will make my covenant between me and thee, and will multiply thee exceedingly.

Genesis 28:3
And God Almighty bless thee, and make thee fruitful, and multiply thee, that thou mayest be a multitude of people.

Genesis 35:11
And God said unto him, I am God Almighty: be fruitful and multiply; a nation and a company of nations shall be of thee. and kings shall come out of thy loins.

Genesis 48:3,4
And Jacob said unto Joseph, God Almighty appeared unto me at Luz in the land of Canaan, and blessed me, And said unto me, Behold, I will make thee fruitful, and multiply thee, and I will make of thee a multitude of people: and will give this land to thy seed after thee for an everlasting possession.

Genesis 49:24,25
But his bow abode in strength, and the arms of his hands were made strong by the hands of the mighty God of Jacob; (from thence is the shepherd, the stone of Israel:) Even by the God of thy father, who shall bless thee with blessings of heaven above, blessings of the deep that lieth under, blessings of the breasts, and of the womb.

Numbers 24:4,16
He hath said, which heard the words of God, which saw the vision of the Almighty, falling into a trance, but having his eyes open. He hath said, which heard the words of God, and knew the knowledge of the most High, which saw the vision of the Almighty, falling into trance, but having his eyes open.

Ruth 1:20,21
And she said unto them, Call me not Naomi, call me Mara: for the Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with me. I went out full, and the Lord hath brought me home again empty: why then call ye me Naomi, seeing the Lord hath testified against me, and the Almighty hath afflicted me?

Isaiah 60:15,16
Whereas thou hast been forsaken and hated, so that no man went through thee, I will make thee an eternal excellency, a joy of many generations. Thou shalt also suck the milk of Gentiles and shalt such the breasts of kings: and thou shalt know that I the Lord am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob.

Isaiah 66:10-13
Rejoice ye with Jerusalem and be glad with her, all ye that love her: rejoice for joy with her, all ye that mourn for her: That ye may suck, and be satisfied with the breasts of her consolations; that ye may milk out, and be delighted with the abundance of her glory. For thus saith the Lord, Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river, and the glory of the Gentiles like a flowing stream: them shall ye suck, ye shall be borne upon her sides and be dandled upon her knees. As one whom his mother comforteth, so will comfort you; and ye shall be comforted in Jerusalem.

Revelation 16:7,14
And I heard another out of the altar say, Even so, Lord God Almighty, true and righteous are thy judgments. For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty.

Revelation 19:15
And out of His mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it He should smite the nations: and He shall rule them with a rod of iron: and He treadeth the winepress of the fierceness, and wrath of Almighty God.

Revelation 21:22,23
And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.

Conclusion:

God is powerful enough to provide His people with blessings. Not only is He powerful enough to do so; He wants to, but He also wants man to worship and obey Him.

Application:

I will obey all that God has commanded me to do. When I blow it, and make a mistake I will stop and ask God to forgive me, and restore me to fellowship with Him, that I might once again enjoy His blessings.

Pursuing Love- The I In Pride

Questions for this week:

1.Do you love your neighbor as yourself? Yes, I do love my neighbor as myself. We must all show the love of Jesus to others.
2.Do you consciously look out for the welfare of others above your own? Yes, I always try to look out for the welfare of others above my own welfare.
3.Are you self-protective of your time? No, I am not self-protective of my time, I will give my time away freely.
4.Assertive of your rights? No, never have been.
5.Is your reputation a prime concern? I let God take care of my reputation.
6.Do you search your heart’s motives before acting? Yes, I never want to hurt anyone.
7.Do you pray for other’s needs more than your own?Yes, I have a great concern for others needs.

Update

Hello everyone, praying that you are doing well, and are very happy. I thought I would give you an update on me and my lovebug. Lovebug went to see his neurologist Thursday, he released him to go back to work on lite duty. Praise God for this awesome news. Please pray that his job will agree to this. This coming week, lovebug and I both have appointments on Thursday with our eye doctor. Please pray that he will do something to help this terrible pain in my eyes. Friday, lovebug goes for another infusion treatment, it is called a booster infusion. Finances are still really rough, but we are holding on tight to our Father God, and to each other. I love you all so much, and always thank you for your love, friendship, and mighty prayers. Take care, and have a wonderful week.

Praise God

Thankful Thursday

I am so thankful that my Father God loves me, just as I am. He truly knows my heart, and who I really am. He understands my health problems, and even when I mess up, and do not take care of myself the way I should, He never judges me, only loves me. He understands that I accept the fact that I do not have hair, but I still feel more comfortable wearing bandanas, or hats. It is not that I am ashamed, just feel more comfortable when my head is covered. I have lost quite a bit of weight recently, and my clothes are no longer fitting me. I cannot afford to buy new clothes right now, but I am fine wearing what I have. If it seems like I am complaining about my health alot, please forgive me. I only covet your prayers. Someone recently really hurt me. Talked against my hair, my clothes, my health, and many other things. Please pray for her, and for me. My heart is really hurting over this. I love you, and I am very thankful for all of you.

An Open Door- Bible Study Part 2

Find
Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth, shall you not know it? - Isaiah 43:18-19

What does this verse say to you about God's ability to heal your brokenness?
I believe that God can heal all of my brokenness, and make my life better than ever.

Read Luke 4: 18-21
18"The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
because he has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
and recovery of sight for the blind,
to release the oppressed,
19to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor."
20Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him, 21and he began by saying to them, "Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing." - (NIV)

Jesus quoted from the Book of Isaiah and made a declaration regarding the brokenhearted. Read this passage substituting your name for "the poor", "the brokenhearted," "the captives,""the blind," and "those who are oppressed." How does this passage speak to your life? It tells me that God can fix any problem that I may be dealing with.


Describe a time when you started over. How did that experience make you feel? What were the positive emotions you dealt with? What were the negative emotions you faced?

I would say a time that I started over, was after my hysterectiomy. I had totally concentrated on trying to have a baby for 16 years. After the hysterectiomy, I was so broken hearted, and actually grieving over the babies I would never have. I did not know if I would be able to face life without children, but God healed my hurt.

"Good grief!" I said. "Lord, this is not funny. I have no idea what to do here! (p.13). Have you ever had an experience that caused you to say something like this? If so, describe that experience. Christmas Eve, when my lovebug nearly died, our lives drastically changed. When we were told that he has CIDP, the sister disease to MS, we felt totally zapped, and lost. Lovebug is not able to work, so our finances have been affected in a major way. But, God is still here with us, carrying us daily. He meets all of our needs, and loves us through everything we must face.




Feel

What do you think is the difference between experiencing brokenness, and your life being broken? God allows us to be broken so we will learn to rely solely on Him. God sometimes steps into our lives and breaks us—not maliciously, but purposefully—so we will be emptied of pride, and become truly useful to Him. God teaches us to embrace brokenness, so we can become fully surrendered, discovering His deep love, and true purpose for our lives.




How can you find hope in the midst of your brokenness? How do you feel about yourself when you are broken before God? How does He feel about you? You can find hope in the midst of your brokenness by clinging tightly to the hem of His garment. When I am broken before God, I feel that God is seeing the real me, and is taking what is broken, and renewing me. He always cares for me, and loves me, through it all.



Take a few moments and list some of the Scripture passages that have been most encouraging to you.


Matthew 6:25-34, "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his lifea]">[a]?

28"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."

Mark 10:27, "Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God."

Isaiah 40:31,

"but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.

Follow

Describe a time when you have heard the Lord say, "Just follow me." Right now, lovebugs health problems, my health problems, and our financial problems. But, the Lord tells us daily to just follow Him, and that is what we are choosing to do.


What encouragement can you give someone who is struggling with the consequences of previous poor choices? God loves you regardless, and He is more than willing to give you more chances, to make better choices. Open your heart totally to Him, let Him lead you in the choices you make for your life.


How can you better follow God in the days ahead? Through prayer, diving into His word daily, giving my all for Him.


Summarize the instructions of Luke 4:18-21 by completing the following statement:

Because Jesus said believe in me, I will believe that anything is possible through Him.

In your study journal, write a prayer expressing your thankfulness to God for healing your brokenness. Throughout the coming week ,use this prayer as part of your conversations with God. Dear Father God, I thank You for healing my brokenness time after time. You never fail me, You are daily renewing me. Glory to Your holy name.

Praying The Names Of God- El Roi

I'm joining with Jill of Forever N Ever N Always as we study Ann Spangler's book "Praying the Names of God". Today we focus on God as El Roi; the God who sees. READ: Genesis 16:7-13
[Hagar] called the name of the Lord who spoke to her, You-Are-the-God-Who-Sees; for she said, “Have I also here seen Him who sees me?” —Genesis 16:13
El Roi sees your past misery, your present pain, your uncertain future. He is so watchful, that He knows when the smallest sparrow perishes (Matt. 10:29-31). And, He is the God who sees and cares for you today.

If God sees the sparrow’s fall,
Paints the lilies short and tall,
Gives the skies their azure hue,
Will He not then care for you? —Anon.

Keep your eyes on the Lord; He never takes His eyes off you.

He Reigns

Its Not About Me

It is not about me, but totally about Him. I praise Him for all I am, and all I have. I want to shout, and sing His praise forever. I love Him, now, and forever.

Little Bit Of This, Little Bit Of That

Hello my sweet friends, praying you are all doing well. I hope you all get to enjoy a wonderful weekend filled with beautiful Sonshine. This post is going to be a little bit of this, and a little bit of that. Today is March 6, my dear momma was born on this day back in 1933, so today she would have been 77. Happy Birthday to my angel momma. I know she is probably doing a birthday dance all over heaven today, enjoy your day momma. I love you, and miss you so very, very much. Early Friday morning, around 4A.M., we had a scary thing happen to us. We live in an apartment, and there has been quite a few bad things happening around here lately. Such as fights, a murder, fires, and meth labs. Well, Friday morning, someone started ringing our doorbell, then banging on our door, they tried their best to get in here. Thanks be to our Father God for watching over us, they finally left. My dear friend Beth over at "I am following my destiny", said she was praying for me and lovebug at 4A.M., God always takes care. Thank you dear Beth. We will be going to see lovebugs neurologist on Thursday March 11. At this appointment, we will find out if lovebug can go back to work doing lite duty. Please be praying about this, he really wants to go back to work, we also very much need the income. Lovebug still has no feeling in his legs, or feet, but we are not giving up. God is still working on our miracle. Looking forward to this weekend, our dear friends Cheyenne and Jon are coming for a visit. We are all going to church together Sunday morning, and night. We are going to visit a new church, God has led us to find a new church home. I am so happy that our friends will be here to go with us the first time we go there. It will be so awesome praising God together. Please continue to pray for us financially, our car payment is due March 14, and we still do not have the money for it. But, we are fully trusting Father God to meet our needs. I am still trying to get SSI, due to my diabetes, and being legally blind. I am waiting to hear from them. Please take care my friends, and know that you are loved.

Blessed Aroma Award

Internet Cafe Devotions have just released their top 100 blog winners, and I am honored that Shortybears Place was one of those 100.


Some of you may not be familiar with this award, but once a year Internet Cafe Devotions take nominations from their readers. There are ten different categories and the top 10 blogs nominated in each category, are graced with the BLESSED AROMA AWARD.
Shortybears Place was blessed to have won in the Most Joyful Among Us category. Here is how they descibe this category:
This gal always sees her coffee cup “half full” and the joy just pours out of her site. Her joyful attitude is what keeps you coming back for more. This makes my heart smile really big, I am truly thankful. I do not deserve any glory, I give all the glory to my Father God. I am so grateful for all of you, thanks for visiting me, and for those of you that nominated me, thank you so very much. I pray that in some small way, I can encourage you, or bring joy into yur day. Please continue to visit, I love you my dear sisters.

Thankful Thursday

I love You Father God, and I want to praise You for all of Your blessings. You are so very worthy. If I did not have You in my life, I would be so lost. But, because of You, I am found. If I did not have You, I would be so lonely, but, with You, I will never be alone again. You will always be with me, never leaving me lonely. Without You, my eternity would be spent burning in hell, but, because of You, I have a heavenly home waiting on me. If it were not for You, my dear lovebug would have died on Christmas Eve, but, thanks to You, he is still here with me. Without You, lovebug and I would be homeless right now, without a car, or very many possessions. But, because of You, and the way You have chosen to bless us financially via our dear blogging brothers and sisters, we are hanging in here, and holding on tightly to the hem of Your garment. We will never let go. Thank You from the bottom of my heart Father God. With You, I have everything my heart could, or would, ever desire.

Trusting God

Kat over at heart to heart is leading a study on Trusting God by Sheila Walsh. Here are this weeks study questions.

Read Job 33: 29-30

What does this verse say to you about courage? God will always give us courage.

Read Joshua 1: 1-9

For what reason did Joshua need courage? Because he had just became the leader of the Israelites.
How many times was he told to be courageous? Why do you think he was given this instruction repeatedly? He was told three times to be courageous. God repeatedly told him to be courageous to encourage him.
Consider your present situation and rewrite Joshua 1:1-9 as if God were speaking to you. What instructions would He give, and how many times would He repeat those instructions? Considering my present situation, God would instruct me to not be afraid or discouraged. He would continue to repeat these instructions to keep me encouraged.
Describe a time when you demonstrated great courage, or a time when you needed more courage. When I was 16 my stepfather sexually abused me, my mom did not believe me, and sent me to live with my sister. My sister kicked me out, so I moved in with some neighbors, that were strangers. I think that showed courage to endure all those trials.
"Jesus didn't come to get you out of the pain of life; He has come to live in you through it."(p.2). How have you found this to be true in your life? When my momma passed away, and I was her caregiver, so I found her that morning. It really sent me into a deep depression, and I started cutting myself. Jesus met me where I was, and brought me through it.


You might have gone through some difficult times in your life. List some of the feelings you've had. Depression, sadness, heartache, loneliness, worthlessness, and discouragement.

Describe the role of your faith in facing your struggles. How would you describe your courage? My faith gives me courage to face all of life's storms, and brings me back into the Sonshine.
What is one situation you are facing right now that causes your heart to race and your emotions to spin out of control? My husbands health.


What do you believe God wants you to do in response to the situation you described in the previous question? Pray, and leave it all in His hands for safe keeping.
How can God work through your friends, family members, and church to encourage and support you, as you deal with this situation? Pray with me, and for me.
What do you want God to do in your life through this study? Make me more faithful.
What do you need to change in your life, so you can be more focused on God, and less focused on the situation you are facing? I need to replace the fears with total faith.
Summarize the instructions of Joshua 1:1-9 by completing the following statement:
Because God said(do not be afraid) I will(be courageous)

Write a prayer expressing your desires. Throughout the coming week, use this prayer as part of your conversation with God. Dear heavenly Father, replace my fears with total faith. I believe in You with all of my heart. I know You will take care of my husband, I know You will send healing when You are ready. I love You, and give You all the praise, now, and forever.

Pursuing Love- Are You Rude, Or Courteous?

Here are our contemplation questions for this week.

•Do you have good manners? Yes, I do have good manners. I always want to be respectful.

•Are you courteous to others, especially in your home? Yes, I am courteous to others.

•Are you tactful – sensitive to the feelings of others, choosing your words carefully, or do you offend people needlessly? I am tactful, would never want to offend people needlessly.

•Are you agreeable when you must disagree with someone? Yes, I am agreeable, when I must disagree with someone.

•Do you use sarcasm or put-downs that show disrespect? I never use sarcasm, or put-downs that show disrespect. I am never rude, or disrespectful to others. I know how it feels to be disrespected, and have people hurt you with their unkind words. When I was in school, the kids always made fun of my weight. Pointing at me, calling me names, and singing fatty fatty two by four, can't get through any door. It hurt me really bad, and made me cry so much. My own dad put me down all the time, said I would never amount to anything, his favorite thing to call me was a very bad curse word. My stepfather sexually abused me, which is the worse kind of disrespect. But, through it all, Father God was teaching me a great life lesson. He taught me how to always treat others with the love and respect they deserve, what I had always longed for. Thank You Father God for loving me, and respecting me. May I never fail to give others the same.

Praying The Names Of God-Elohim

My friend, Jill, at Forever n Ever n Always is leading a study of " Praying the Names of God" by Ann Spangler. Today, we are focusing on the name Elohim. Elohim means Creator.
How humbling it should be to us, that Elohim has so ordained our existence that men and women, His fearful and wonderful creations, should be given the high, and holy privilege of proclaiming His glory, for this too is the purpose of all creation as David tells us in Psalm 19...



Psalm 19:1 The heavens are telling of the glory of Elohim, and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands.
The truth that God is Elohim, the Creator and Sustainer of all that exists, also gives us confidence to face life's difficulties. When fully comprehended, the truth about Elohim, helps us overcome fear and anxiety, that are daily intruders in our lives. Thank You Elohim, Your creation is a beautiful sight to behold.

Marriage Monday- Prayer In Marriage

Today is Marriage Monday, and the topic for this month is prayer in marriage. I think this is a wonderful topic. Lovebug and I enjoy praying together, it brings us closer than ever. Our hearts and minds are closely connected with Father God when we pray together. Recently, we have been going through various trials in our marriage, and prayers have continuously been going up in our home. Father God has truly been listening, and quickly answering our prayers. No matter what the need, we can always pray together. Right now, we are in much prayer for lovebugs total healing from his numbness, and financial blessings. Our car will pay off in Feburary 2011, we are praying not to lose it before then. It is the only vehicle we have. Please join us in praying that we will be able to pay our march car payment by the 14. Love and blessings to all of you.