#21 - Responsibility

"Grant that my children, grandchildren - my family - may learn responsibility, for each one should carry his own load" (Gal. 6:5)

#20 - Compassion

"Lord, please clothe my children, grandchildren - family - with the virtue of compassion". (Col. 3:12)

#19 - Humility

"God, please cultivate in my children, my grandchildren - my family - the ability to show true humility toward all" (Titus 3:2)

# 18 - Perseverance

"Lord, teach my children, graandchildren - family - perserverance in all they do, and help them especially to run with perseverance the race marked out for them" (Heb. 12:1)

#17 - Joy

"May my children, grandchildren - family - be filled with the joy given by the Holy Spirit" (1 Thess. 1:6)

# 16 - Peace-loving

"Father, let my children, grandchildren - family - make every effort to do what leads to peace" (Rom. 14:19)

#15 - Generosity.

"Grant that my children, grandchildren - family - may be generous and willing to share, and so lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age" (1 Tim. 6:18-19)

# 14 - Kindness.

"Lord, may my children, grandschildren - family - always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else" (1 Thess. 5:15)

# 13 - Purity

"Create in them a pure heart, O God, and let that purity of heart be shown in their actions" (Ps 51:10)

# 12 - Courage.

"May my children, grandchildren - family - always be strong and courageous in their character and in their actions" (Dt. 31:6)

#11 - Faithfulness.

"Let love and faithfulness never leave my children, grandchildren - family - but bind these twin virtues around their necks and write them on the tablet of their hearts" (Prov. 3:3)

#10 - biblical self-esteem

"Help my children, grandchildren - family - develop a strong self-esteem that is rooted in the realization that they are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus" (Eph. 2:10)

#9 - Respect (for self, others, authority).

"Father, grant that my children, grandchildren - family - may show respect to everyone, as your Word commands". (1 Pet. 2:17)

#8 - Mercy

"May my children, grandchildren - family- always be merciful, just as their heavenly Father is merciful" (Lk. 6:36)

#7 - Justice

"God, help my children and grandchildren - family - to love justice as You do and act justly in all they do". (Ps 11:7, Mic. 6:8)

#6 - "Love for God's Word"

"May my children, grandchildren - family - grow to find Your Word more precious than much pure gold and sweeter than honey from the comb" (Ps. 19:10)

#5 - Self Control

"Father, help my children and grandchildren - family - not to be like many others around them, but let them be alert and self-controlled in all they do" (1 Thess. 5:6)

#4 - Honesty and integrity

"May integrity and honesty be their virtue and their protection." (Ps. 25:21)

#3 - Love

"Grant, Lord, that my children and my grandchildren - my family - may learn to live a life of love, through the Spirit who dwells in them" (Gal. 5:25, Eph. 5:2)

#2 - Growth in grace

"I pray that my children and grandchildren - family - may grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Pet. 3:18)

Biblical virtues I pray for my kids and grandkids

I pray these prayers and scriptures for all of you, some each day. I am going to post one a day for a month. You could pray them each day, too, for yourselves and for your kids, and for you parents, and aunts and cousins. Let's make it our daily family prayer! Post your thoughts and insights as you pray through these, if you want to.

(I got these off of a prayer card that one of my prayer group friends had given me a few years ago. The card is from
www.praymag.com)

#1. SALVATION. "Lord, let salvation spring up within my children and grandchildren, that they may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory" (Is. 45:8, and 2 Tim. 2:10)

Thankfulness

On this Thanksgiving day, 2008, I am taking a moment to contemplate all that I have to be thankful for! Amongst all the troubles in the world, the troubles in the financial world, the wars, the pain and sickness and hardships, even in our own family, it is a little harder this year to find a "Thankful heart". But . . .

Gratitude comes from having the right perspective. It's being able to look at what we have and being thankful for that, not longing for what we don't have. So, I definitely have lots to be thankful for: God has blessed me with a wonderful family, we have a nice home, good jobs, cars, plenty of food and clothes - what more could we want?

Then God said to me (and to all of you, too) "Do you know why you should feel grateful? YOU are a part of God's plan, YOU are touched by God's tenderness and mercy and forgiveness, YOU are victorious in God's victory. What greater blessing could there be?"

It's incredible that anyone could look at the kindness of God, the faithfulness of God, and the goodness of God and not feel any emotion of gratitude.

Remember the Lord. Remember who is in control. Remember His goodness in the past. Remember God's closeness in the present. Remember His power for the future.

Read Jeremiah 29:11-14. Can you share a plan God has for you that you feel is being carried out.

Trust God!

Have you ever asked God - "If You're really God, then why is this happening to me? If You really love me like everyone tells me You do, then why haven't you brought me out of this awful circumstance when I know You could? " "Why haven't you brought healing to this one I am so faithful to pray for every day? I see you heal the one in the next bed at the hospital, but, you leave the one I pray for suffering, or dying." "Where are you in my life when everything is so topsy turvy and I am so afraid?" . . . . . etc. etc. etc.

Well, I believe that there can be no trust unless you have some unanswered questions in your life. If you know everything in your life, then there's no reason to trust God. Don't waste your time trying to figure things out that only God knows, because He's not telling!

I hope you understand that trusting God will change your life. It will set you free from the things you don't understand. And you may not be moving forward, not be able to move on, because you've got some of these "why's" and unanswered questions hidden away on the inside of you.

If you want to go full force ahead with God, then you need to stop continually asking questions that only He can answer. Stop demanding to know why, and instead, trust Him. I believe that trusting God is the answer to every problem you and I have in our lives. And it doesn't matter what kind of trouble it is. If we trust God, we can be set free from the burdens of our problems - set free to enjoy His peace and joy!

Precious Lord, Take My Hand

5 questions for a better life

1. Why am I here?

This question gets to the core of your life mission. Every experience, every contact and every gift or talent that you have exists to support you in accomplishing your mission in life. If you are alive, you are here for a purpose. What will be the most important mark you make on the world?

2. What would I like to learn?

The most interesting people are those with a diversity of perspectives and experiences. Life is a learning journey. The more we learn, the more we grow ... and the richer and deeper our life experience. Make a list of things you'd like to learn and make plans to learn them. Be willing to try something new, something that takes you outside of your comfort zone.

3. What brings me joy?

Often it is the simple things that bring us the most joy. Make alist of the things that bring you joy, then begin incorporating those things into your life on a daily basis. Don't wait for a special occasion to purposefully make your life joyful. You deserve joy every day.

4. What am I most afraid of?

Fear can be our enemy, if we allow it to be. Fear also can be a great teacher and a catalyst for change. For example, fear that you will fail can motivate you to be creative and work hard so that you succeed. On the other hand, fear can keep you from living your highest potential if your fear paralyzes you from moving forward in your life. Once you identify your fear, you can begin determining ways to reduce the risk that your fear presents. Once you make the decision to overcome your fear, you find your fears are often more perception than reality. As a result, you fear less in your life than ever before.

5. What is one step I can take today to move closer to my ideal life?

Taking a step towards your dreams will generate excitement for the possibilities available to you. Write a vision of your ideal life and then move towards it one step at a time. Celebrate your steps along the way. Consider that following rules and tradition is not a prerequisite to success. Open your mind to creating your own opportunities.

pray for Josi

Please pray for Josi. She is in the hospital here. She is fighting infection in her pump that puts medicine in her body. I think that's the accurate report anyway. They are trying to decide whether to take her to Denver or leave her here. She needs surgery to remove it. I think they'll do it here. I talked to Mary Ellen a couple hours ago and she said they didn't know what to do yet. Joe drove here from Kalispell this morning and arrived at 7:30 and has been with her ever since. Debbie was with her all night, so she went home to rest. They are both very tired and very weary, but aren't giving up! So, they need our prayers, too. And pray for Josi's dog. He is dying. Mary Ellen didn't know why. Josi loves her dog. He sleeps with her and keeps her company. He's a doberman, so of course, I'm scared to death of him. This is a long hard struggle for everyone. August 13th was 2 years! God love her.

Don't be ashamed of standing up for Jesus

Read the comment I published under my last entry here.

Is God speaking to America?

Read 1 Chronicles 28:7-8

"If he continues to obey my laws and commands I will make his kingdom strong forever." I feel the Lord showed this to me as a warning for America. In this passage he is speaking of Solomon, but I feel it can be spoken to our leaders, and to us as well: " IF he is steadfast to observe God's commands and HIS judgements He will establish America forever." Vs 8 says "So be careful to seek out the commands and judgements of the Lord. (Pray - spend lots of time with Him, listen), so that this good land can remain as it is, and so it can be left as an inheritance to our children". And 2nd Chronicles 7:12-18 tells us how we stay in God's grace and how He will protect us. "I have heard your prayer and have chosen this place (America in this instance), for a temple for myself. Things may go wrong, but then if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray, and stop their evil ways, I will hear them from heaven . I will forgive their sin, and I will heal their land. I will listen to the prayers prayed in this place." Yes, I will always watch over it and love it (America?)

BUT . . . 2nd Chronicles 7:19-22 tells us what will happen if we forsake Him and His commandments. Or serve other Gods. "If you do, I will take the Holy Spirit out of this land. And I will leave this place. All the nations will make fun of it and speak evil about it. This place is honored now, but then, everyone who passes by will be shocked. They will ask, 'Why did the Lord do this terrible thing to this land?" The answer will be "This happened because they left the Lord, the God of their ancestors, the God who brought them out of Egypt (captivity to a free land). They decided to follow other gods and worshiped and served them, so he brought all this disaster on them."

Could this be a warning for America? Could He be calling us to pray for our land? I believe so. Be awake! Listen!

Read Romans 15:4 "Everything that was written in the past was written to teach us. The Scriptures give us patience and encouragement so that we can have hope."

Fellowship with God

Do you want to be closer to God? He wants to be closer to you! The proof is that He lives inside of you. How much closer can He be? We can always draw closer in relationship with God. In fact, we are the ones who determine just how close our relationship with Him will be. Even though He lives in us, the Holy Spirit won't force a relationship with us. He wants us to make Him welcome in our lives. James 4:5 tells us that. . . He yearns for the Spirit {to be welcome} with a jealous love.

The questiion you and I should ask ourselves is this: Do I make room, or time, for God in my life? Just think about some of the natural relationships we all have. How would they be if we treated them the way we treat our relationship with God? Any good relationship is built on fellowship - spending time with each other - good, quality time! Talking and listening and enjoying each other's company. Dad and I are very close - and have been for 52 + years! Sometimes we talk to each other, sometimes we listen. Sometimes we have a lot of fun together, other times we don't agree on things. We don't keep secrets, we share everything! We consult with each other on the big things of life and make no major decisions without the other's guidance and approval. Sometimes we enjoy just being quiet togther.

Our relationship with God can be like that. We can talk to Him . . . listen to Him . . . or just be quiet in His presence. He just wants to be a part of our lives. He wants to help us have and enjoy life. Proverbs 3:6 tells us to acknowledge Him - in other words, to care what He thinks, to consult Him - in all our ways. It goes on to say that He will direct our paths, or He will guide us through life.

God created us to fellowship with Him. He longs to talk to us, to listen to us, to teach us and guide us - simply to be a part of our lives. We are renewed when we fellowship with God. Spending time with God strengthens and empowers us. There is protection in His presence. Psalm 91 is a great prayer of protection I (and others) prayed it for Brian and His buddies while they were in Irag. I pray it for each one of you at one time or another in your lives. The benefits of spending time with our Father are endless. All He wants is to have fellowship with His people. He wants a relationship with you and me! Wow! A God who created the universe, and everything and everybody cares about me! And you! Isn't that awesome?

Is there any wonder that the enemy hates and fights our time with God. He (the devil) knows that through that relationship, we become strongr in the fight against his tactics.

I encourage you to make time in your day to fellowship with the Father. He is waiting. There are many benefits of a close, personal relationship with Almighty God. He is saying, "Come to Me . . . " "Be still and know that I am God . . ." "I love you, my child . . . (place your name here) . . . "Can you hear me calling your name?" Go ahead - go to Him - fellowship with Him - and see what's in store!

Maybe we could all share a time or two when we "fellowshipped", talked with God, prayed, and we were blessed by it. Do you have a story to share?

Tribute to my Aunt Pat

And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow--not even the powers of hell can separate us from God's love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below--indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39

Thoughts for Today :
Grieving over the death of a loved one involves a process. This process will vary for individuals and may last several months or even years. Although working through the process is different for everyone, some things never change.
Jesus always understands. He experienced grief in the death of his friend Lazarus and in facing his own death and separation from his Father.
God's mercy is always available. Join the psalmist in this prayer: "Take care of me, for your mercy is so plentiful" (Psalm 69:16 ). God abounds in mercy and lovingkindness (Psalm 86:15).
God always loves you.
Today's Scripture assures us that nothing can separate us from his love--not death, not life, not worries about today and not fears about tomorrow. In times of stress and sorrow and change, God's love is a constant comfort. "I will be glad and rejoice in your unfailing love, for you have seen my troubles, and you care about the anguish of my soul" (Psalm 31:7 ).
Consider this...
There is always hope. No matter how bleak things seem, if you place your trust in Jesus, he will guide you and fill you with hope for the future. Jesus Christ--the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8).
Prayer:
Father, I thank you so much that even as everything else around me seems to be changing, I can always count on you. I know that you never change. You will always love me, always show me mercy and always give me hope.

Don't Worry, Be Happy!

God wants you to be wise and surefooted in your daily walk withHim, not allowing anything to come into your life that would causeyou to doubt His goodness.
He also knows that there will be timeswhen the enemy will tempt you to feel fearful and out of control.When this happens, you need to remember that you serve a sovereignGod who has good things in mind for your life.Even when troubles come, we may begin to wonder if we will everrealize the hopes and dreams that God has given us. Joseph, Daniel,Moses, David, and Peter and the other disciples probably faced thesame temptation to doubt God's blessing and goodness. However,these men of faith remained steadfast in their belief in the Lord'sability. They had to come to a point of faith where they boldly confronted their fears--and we do, too.The English word worry comes from a German word meaning "tostrangle or choke." This is exactly what worry does. It chokes and prevents us from living victorious lives by stifling our godly potential. Solomon, however, admonishes us to "catch ... the foxes, the littlefoxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom"(Song of Songs 2:15). The "little foxes" of sin have the ability toderail our Christian faith and sense of virtue.On the surface, few of us would think that a little worry, doubt,or fear is enough to harm our devotion to God. However, they can steal our joy and create within our hearts and minds a sense of distrust for the things of God. God is merciful. He has the power to conquer doubt, fear, and worry. When our lives are surrendered to Him, we don't have to be anxious about tomorrow. He provides all that we need perfectly and on time. Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied (Luke6:21).

Comments under "HOPE"

I posted some comments under Karen's post on HOPE. Click on the comments and read them if you want. Thanks Karen for publishing these posts on Forgiveness, enabling, and Hope. I really appreciate that you are doing that. Such wisdom and revelation God gives for you to share with us! And thanks to Sharon, too - ditto! And Debbie and Chuck who have shared their insights, also. And Kay and Brian. It is good to go back through the posts and re-read them. I have been doing that and sometimes they mean more, or at least just as much, as they did the first time. God's word is powerful and it is very healing.

Something to think about ... RE: Josh...or anyone

Loving When It Hurts

Dr. Creflo A. Dollar

Did you know God expects you to love others unconditionally, even if they've hurt you? I know loving someone who has hurt you is hard; however, it's what God expects, which is why He has deposited His love in your heart. God's love gives you the ability to love the unlovable. His love gives you the power to love through hurt, pain, and any other circumstances your normal love would not be able to withstand. Let's face it, hurt is a very real part of life. Everyone has experienced hurt at some point. However, it's important not to allow hurt to cause you to become bitter, or prevent you from loving others. Although it may temporarily feel good to stop loving someone who has hurt you, it will eventually lead to heartache, unanswered prayer, and ultimately, destruction; which is why God commands us, above all else, to never stop loving. Did you know every law in God's Kingdom works by love? Your prosperity, healing, and deliverance, are all directly affected by your ability to love. God is love, and His power to prosper, heal, and deliver you operates in the circle of love. When you operate outside that circle, you put yourself in a position where God, who is love, cannot help you. Learning how to heal and forgive so you can stay in the circle of love, is vital to receiving the wonderful things God has for you. Maybe you've been hurt by a dear friend, or treated unfairly by a close relative. Either way, you've got a life—altering choice to make—either deal with your pain in a godly manner and continue to walk in love, or allow negative emotions to consume you, and ultimately destroy your life. The choice is yours! When you choose to walk in love, you position yourself to experience the power of God in every area of your life. He has the power to heal you of all hurt, and free you from the pain associated with it. However, you have to believe and trust Him to not only heal you, but also restore everything you've lost. God is faithful to His Word. Make a decision today, that regardless of what it takes, you will love others unconditionally. You'll be glad you did!
— Dr. Creflo A. Dollar Scripture references:
Mark 11:25
James 5:16
1 Corinthians 13
Psalm 35:27
Luke 10:19
Ephesians 6:12
Romans 5:5

Enabling: Thoughts for today

Thoughts for Today

Enabling is anything that stands in the way of or softens the
natural consequences of a person's behavior.

God does not want us to enable others in their wrongdoing. Neither
does he enable us when we choose to walk in disobedience to him. He
loves us too much to enable us in our wrongdoing. He knows that we
will not come to our senses and change our ways unless he allows us
to suffer the natural consequences of what we do.

The great thing is that, just like the father of the prodigal son,
our heavenly Father is loving us and watching for us. He wants us
to come home and will run out to meet us, showering his love, mercy
and forgiveness on us, when we return.

Consider this...
Do you need to return? Perhaps you have recently fallen into
something you know you shouldn't do...your Father is waiting for you.

Perhaps you have been locked into a downward spiral and feel as
though there is no way out. God always provides a way. He is just
waiting for you to come to him with a repentant heart. His arms are
open wide. ..no matter what you have done. Jesus has already paid
the price for your sin. Receive his forgiveness. He loves you
unconditionally and is waiting to help you.

Prayer...
Father, I am so sorry for what I have been doing. Please forgive me
and show me the way out. In Jesus' name ...

HOPE

Hope is required to see the fullness of your faith. When hope dies, your faith will die also. Expectation is the breeding ground for miracles. -What you fail to expect, your faith will fail to deliver. Write down what you expect, make it plain, and thank God for it now!

Some scriptures to ponder about Hope...
Hebrews 11:7
Proverbs 13:12
Acts 3:1-7
Ephesians 2:12
Romans 15:4
Psalms 119:81 and 114


Hope is earnest, heartfelt, favorable, confident expectation. It's a desirable goal from God's Word. It's expecting with an outstretched neck, looking for what you believe will happen. Your hope will change and rearrange your plans. Hope is required for your faith to work. Scriptures are essential to our hope.

Answered prayer - again

Praise God! I talked to Joan today, and asked her how Kenny is and told her about our prayers on this blog. She said he had his last treatment last week, and they have said he is CANCER FREE!!!! Thank you, Jesus!

But, we will continue to pray our novena (nine days) for him and his family - prayers for a healthy body and prayers of thanksgiving.

How We Perceive Ourselves Romans 8:16 & 17

HOW WE PERCEIVE OURSELVESRomans 8:16, 17 By Charles Swindol

The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ.

Lydia is a middle-aged woman who was dealt a bad hand in liferight from the beginning. Memories of sexual abuse that she suffered as a young child have haunted her continually throughout her life. Her damagedself-image seemed beyond repair. As she told her story, Lydia displayed little emotion, but her words reflected total despair. When she concluded, I asked, "Who are you, Lydia? How do youperceive yourself?"
"I'm evil," she answered stoically. "I'm just no good for anybody. People tell me I'm evil and all I do is bring trouble."
"You're not evil," I argued. "How can a child of God be evil? Is that how you perceive yourself?" Lydia nodded.
It is never pleasant to see the evil one express his ugly personality through a victim like Lydia. But realizing that she is primarily the product of the work of Christ on the Cross instead of the victim of her past, she was able to throw off the chains of spiritual bondage and begin living according to her true identity as a child of God.

Nothing is more foundational to your freedom from Satan's bondage than understanding and affirming what God has done for you in Christ and who you are as a result. We all live in accordance with our perceived identity. In fact, we cannot consistently behave in a way that is inconsistent with how we perceive ourselves. Your attitudes, actions, responses and reactions to life's circumstances are often determined by your conscious and subconsciousself-perception. If you see yourself as the helpless victim of Satan and his schemes, you will live like his victim and be in bondage to his lies. But if you see yourself as the dearly loved and accepted child of God that you really are, you will more likely live like a child of God.

Prayer: Thank You, Jesus, that You have made me more than a conqueror.Because of Your love and power, I can live as a victor instead of avictim today.

We are on day 9 of the novena for Kenny

Click on it in the links at the side ------>

Picture of Jesus sitting with "Josi"

Prayer for Josi: Thank you, Jesus, for being with Josi.
(Please publish your prayers for Josi in the comments)

You Say, God Says, Bible Verses:

YOU SAY

GOD SAYS

BIBLE VERSES

You say: "It's impossible"
God Says: All things are possible
(Luke 18:27)

You say: "I'm too tired"
God says: I will give you rest
(Matthew 11:28-30)

You say: "Nobody really loves me"!
God says: I love you
(John 3:1 6 & John 3:34 )

You say: "I can't go on"
God says: My grace is sufficient
(II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)

You say: "I can't figure things out"
God says: I will direct your steps
(Proverbs 3:5- 6)

You say: "I can't do it"
God says: You can do all things
(Philippians 4:13)

You say: "I'm not able"
God says: I am able
(II Corinthians 9:8)

You say: "It's not worth it"
God says: It will be worth it
(Romans 8:28 )

You say: "I can't forgive myself"
God says: I Forgive you
(I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)

You say: "I can't manage"
God says: I will supply all your needs
(Philippians 4:19)

You say: "I'm afraid"
God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear
(II Timothy 1:7)

You say: "I'm always worried and frustrated"
God says: Cast all your cares on ME
(I Peter 5:7)

You say: "I'm not smart enough"
God says: I give you wisdom
(I Corinthians 1:30)

You say: "I feel all alone"
God says: I will never leave you or forsake you
(Hebrews 13:5)

Answered prayers for Josi!

I talked to Mary Ellen today. She had some hope for Josi in the news. She said that when she went to see Josi in the hospital at Craig in Denver, she turned her head to the left (or right, I don't remember which for sure) by herself. She never turned her head, let alone ever had it turned in that direction! And when Mary Ellen took the covers off her to see how she was doing for comfort and all, she felt her feet and they were warm! She said they hadn't been warm since the accident. The nurses or the doctors didn't understand why these things were happening. I do! God is answering prayers! Her 2 brain surgeries went well. She has been through so much, but needs so much more. Her joints were so stiff and growing wrong now. They were looking like they would poke through her skin! That will take a LOT of work to undo and a lot painful therapy to get better. So now we need to pray for her continued recovery. She will be there for a few months now. She has a wonderful room. Mary Ellen said that first they had her in the old part of the building in a ward and it was really awful, but now she's in the new part in a private room. There's even another room right off hers with a couch and chairs, fridge and microwave and Tv for Deb (her mom) and Bob (step dad) or Joe or siblings to stay in while she is there. That way someone can be with her all the time. God is good! He answers prayer above and beyond what we can even imagine!

WHO is Jesus?

We studied the bell - "Who am I in Jesus?" Now I think it would be good to answer this question: "Who is Jesus?"

Read Luke Chapter 9, verses 18 through 20. Jesus asked his disciples "Who do you say I am?" Disciples are people who follow Jesus. So, we need to know who it is we follow! Who IS this Jesus? This is a great question to ponder during these days before Easter, Easter, and afterwards. Please share your insights into this very important question.

This is the final day of the Novena for Kenny

Let us start the novena over from day one and pray it for all of our people we want to pray it for (I am praying it for Josi, Patsy, Mike, Kenny, Cathy and Gran, Linda and Joshua) with the emphasis on Kenny (Kimmet) this time.

Let us give thanks to our God for His unending love and mercy. Thank you, Jesus, for the healings and peace that will come from these novenas.

Novena - day 9

Read Ephesians, chapter 3, verse 12

"In Christ and through faith in Him we can speak freely to God, drawing near to Him with CONFIDENCE". This is such a wonderful promise in the bible. Isn't it just amazing that we have a pathway to God, that leads us right into His presence. We can speak freely and without fear. We can do this through our faith in Jesus Christ. And we can be confident that He is always there and available to us when we seek Him out.

Read verse 13 of the same chapter

"So I ask you not to become discouraged because of Kenny's sufferings - don't be disheartened by the trials he endures - they are for your glory!" Just stay with him and with your prayers on his behalf. They ARE being answered in God's time and in God's way.

God loves him, and all of us so much! The promises of His love and forgiveness are as real, as sure, as positive as human words can make them. But, like describing the ocean, its total beauty cannot be understood until it is actually seen. It is the same with God's love. Until you actually accept it, until you actually experience it, until you actually posses true peace with God, no one can describe its wonders to you.

A prayer for Kenny and his family from Ephesians, chapter 3, verses 14 to 21

"So I bow in prayer before the Father from whom every family in heaven and on earth gets its true name. I ask the Father in his great glory to give you the power to be strong inwardly through his Spirit. I pray that Christ will live in your hearts by faith and that your life will be strong in love and be built on love. And I pray that you and all God's holy people will have the power to understand the greatness of Christ's love ---how wide and how long and how high and how deep that love is. Christ's love is greater than anyone can ever know, but I pray that you will be able to know that love. Then you can be filled with the fullness of God.
With God's power working in us, God can do much, much more than anything we can ask or imagine. To Him be glory in Christ Jesus for all time, forever and ever. Amen."

Novena - day 8

Read the 16th chapter of psalms verses 9-11. This could be a prayer for Kenny.

His heart is glad and his soul rejoices, his body abides in confidence. Because, my Lord, you will not abandon him to the nether world, nor will his body undergo corruption in this life. God is showing him the path of life, the fullness of joys in God's presence, the delights at His hand - forever!

In verse 5 we read (and pray) The Lord is all I need. He takes care of me.

And in Psalms chapter 17 - verse 15b we read (and pray) When I wake up, I will see your likeness, Lord, and be satisfied.

God has the best for you, Kenny, take it all in!

Prayer:

Dear Jesus - you came so that Kenny could have life and have it more abundantly. (John 10:10) Please be with him in a mighty way - fill his heart with joy and confidence in your love for him, and help him see the promises you made to him. Thank you!

Novena - day 7

Read all of Hebrews, chapter 11

vs 1 - "Faith is confident assurance concerning what we hope for, and conviction about things we do not see."

vs 6 - "Without faith no one can please God. Anyone who comes to God must believe that He is real and that He rewards those who truly want to find Him."

Chapter 11 of Hebrews can encourage you by telling about peoples' faith. These examples should encourage you. Faith is the belief that God is real and that God is good . . . It is a CHOICE to believe that the one who made it all hasn't left it all and that He still responds when we have faith enough to ask. Faith is the belief that God will do what is right. His help is near and always available, but it is only given to those who seek it, those who come to Him and ask. Nothing results when we do nothing. Compared to God's part, our part is small, but necessary!

Prayer:

Lord, I am seeking you. I believe in you. I know you are with us and will make your presence known to Kenny and his family That is the greatest miracle of all. Thank You!

Novena - day 6

Read John chapter 5, verses 2-9 (do you see the words "Do you WANT to be healed"?)
Ephesians chapter 2, verses 4-6 (Do you see the words "God is rich in mercy because of His great love for us. By this
favor you were saved"?)
Hebrews chapter 10, verses 12 and 13 (Do see the words "When He forgives our sinfulness, our sins - they are forgiven
and forgotten by God"?)

In John the man had been sick for 38 years! He thought if he could just make it into the water in time, he could be healed. But, he never could get there in time. He had no one to help him. Jesus asked him if he WANTED to be healed. I suppose He already knew the answer. And Jesus healed him right there. Sometimes, when nothing works, maybe all we need is Jesus!

From Ephesians we read that God loves us so much! His mercy is never-ending because of this great love He has for us. By this favor (God's love), Kenny, your life was saved! God's mercy and love is beyond our comprehension!

In Hebrews we see that when we accept His sacrifice on the cross as our salvation, our sins die on that cross with Jesus. That's WHY God sent His dearly beloved only son - so that we could have life and have it more abundantly - to the fullest! Our sins are forgiven - and forgotten - when we come to the cross - ask forgiveness - accept Jesus as our savior - and repent. We can live in the rest of God, in the peace of God - because we have this faith in God, in Jesus, in the Holy Spirit. We KNOW He will answer our prayer, that He desires for Kenny to have life and have it to the fullest, and that He has begun a work in him. And whatever He does for him, we know it is the best!

We just keep praying, believing, asking, receiving. NEVER GIVE UP ! ! !

PRAYER:

Lord, Jesus - Be with Kenny as he comes for healing. Help us to never give up, believing you are working a miracle for Kenny - in your way and in your time. We know his life has a purpose. You love him so much, and your mercy never ends because of this love. So, Lord Jesus, have mercy and spare him and his family from a life of hardship and sorrow - and give them abundant blessings and joy!

A-MEN !

Novena - day 5

Read Matthew chapter 7, verses 7 - 11

"For the one who asks, receives, the one who seeks finds, the one who knocks enters. The Father will not give us what is bad for us, only what is good. He will give good things to anyone who asks!"

We need to ask God for what we need. We must seek Him and only Him - nothing else can work out God's plan better than God Himself - and we must be with Him, seek Him earnestly. Keep knocking, be persistent with your knocking. God will open the door and let you enter into His presence, there to grant what you are seeking and asking. If my child came knocking on my door, begging me for whatever they needed, there is no way I could say "no" and slam the door in their faces, and go back to what I was doing. No - I would have to invite them in, and give them what they ask - something good for them. But if they asked me for something that I knew would be bad I would not grant that to them. Only what I know would be good for them. That's what a parent does. And so, our heavenly Father will give good things to His children who ask Him!

I am asking, Lord, heal Kenny totally - as a witness of your presence in our lives, and to show that you do keep your promises, I ask this boldly - in Jesus' name. We are seeking YOU and YOUR will and purpose for Kenny and his family. We seek YOU, we want to know you more, we want to see you in Kenny's trials. Help us know you truly are present in our world, and with us! We are knocking, Lord. Let us enter into the secret place of communion with you. We ask for your mercy. Show us that you hear our prayer. We ask all this in the mighty name of Jesus, our Lord! A-men!

Novena - day 4

Read Romans chapter 4

Think of Abraham's impossible situation: He was 100 years old. Sarah was about 80 - well beyond child bearing years. But God had promised him his descendants would inherit the earth. Even though Abraham could not understand how he could possibly have descendants when he wasn't even having children, he beleieved anyway, he had faith in God's promise - in his impossible situation. His faith in God never became weak. He never doubted that God would keep His promise, and he never stopped believing. He, in fact, grew stronger in his faith and gave praise to God. Abraham felt sure that God was able to do what he had promised. So, "God accepted Abraham's faith". These words ("God accepted Abraham's faith") were written not only for Abraham, but also for us.

Read Romans chapter 5, verses 1-5

Through our Lord, Jesus Christ, we have gained access by faith to the grace in which we now stand, and we boast of our hope for the glory of God.

Prayer:

Dear Jesus - when we look on Kenny and his trouble he's in, we see an impossible situation. How could he ever be healed? How can he ever be healed of cancer and heart disease? Even though we do not understand, we just know that you can do anything. You can heal him. You know what he needs. You know the faith of his wife and his family! So, we just boast of that hope we have because of our faith in you. We all believe that you can do this miracle for Kenny. And we give you glory and praise for what you are about to do for him. In Jesus name we pray, AMEN!

Kenny is now cancer free! Thank you, Jesus! We just pray for continued health, for strength to return, and peace in his heart.

Novena for Kenny - day 3

Read 1Peter 5:7

Cast all your concerns on Him because He cares for you!

Nothing - absolutely nothing is impossible for (with) God!

Help us always to remember these words, Lord! Thank you for loving and caring for Kenny and his family. They CAN give you all the cares and concerns and worries they are trying to carry on their own. Lord, it is too heavy a burden for them to bear! So we do give you our concerns and worries, knowing and believing you will take them and carry them! We do know that nothing is impossible for you! So we come boldly before you and ask for your caring, loving, strong arm to hold Kenny close and comfort him, take away his pain and frustration. Give him the strength he will need to climb out of the place where he is - the darkness into the healing light of Christ. Thank you, Jesus!

Novena for Kenny - day 2

Read Zechariah chapter 9 verses 11 and 12

This is what the Lord is saying through these verses - "As for you, and for all who are praying this prayer in faith, for the belief you have in the blood convenant with God, I will bring Kenny from his dungeon, his place of darkness. I will return (give) you double what you ask for, because of your faith and hope, for what you are believing in your prayer for Kenny."

Prayer:

Oh Lord, we thank you for this promise. We, believe that you WILL bring Kenny out of where he is and into a better place. Help him to know YOU and to believe in the blood covenant with you. Bring him into your presence and minister your peace and love to him in a mighty way. Doubly bless him, and give him double what we are asking for him. Doubly bless his family, too. We do believe you can do infinitely more than we can ever imagine! We hold the blessed hope of your promises ever in our hearts, and we believe you WILL hear our prayer for Mike. Amen!

My version of a novena for Kenny

This novena can be prayed for Josi, Cathy, Gran, Kenney, and Pat, too! And anyone else you know who would benefit from it.

Day one:

Read all of 2 Samuel 9:13b +

Kenny always eats at the King's table (He is a child of the King of Kings - our God most high, and the King is wanting him to have ALL that He has for him.) He has Cancer (even so, he is blessed abundantly, beyond anything we can know or imagine)! Look at vs 7 of 2 Samuel 9 - "Fear not, I will surely be kind to you for the sake of your parents, Joan and Leo. . I will restore to you all the land (blessings) of your grandparents - Josephine and Adam, and you shall always eat at my table, says the Lord. (you will always be blessed abundantly.)

Prayer for day one:

Dear Jesus, guard Kenny. Help him to know he is your child. Bring all you have for him and open his arms and heart to receive YOU and what you have in store for him. Thank you, Lord, for his faith, and for the faith of his parents and grandparents. Bless him, and Patty, Jeff and Amanda, abundantly and forever! Do this for the sake of his family - that their faith would be strengthened and renewed - we pray for a miracle for Kenny.

Thank you, Jesus!

Who I am - IN CHRIST ! ! !

Joyce Meyer has been teaching on this all week - "Do you know who you are"? Like the Bell! I think it is so good that I ordered the CD! If you can get her on the TV or radio, or on Google, listen to her. She is so good and so easy to listen to.

Sharon's tip!

Sharon told me to google in You Tube and write in "How Great Thou Art" and "Ave Maria". So I did, and a lot of sights came on that I could click on different versions of the songs and listen to them. It is wonderful. I picked one out of "how Great Thou Art" and used it to meditate with. Beautiful. Try it.

Thanks Sharon!

What I gleaned from "the Bell"

To all who believe in HIM, He gives the right to become cheldren of God! We can know what God is like by learning what Jesus is like. We can learn what Jesus is like, by looking at us! Can people see Jesus in me? People do observe us to see if we act like a christian. Sometimes that's the measure they use to decide to follow Jesus or not. How do I act?

Jesus has made known everything He heard from His father. We can know it, too, by listening to Jesus and reading about Him in the scriptures. We are Jesus' friends, not His servants.

My body is for the Lord. I must be joined with Him, not with sin. I am united with Him! Honor God with your bodies. My body is a temple of God - He lives in me. I must not abuse His temple!

God cherishes us! The more we know Him, the more we will understand His love for us. We have been chosen by God - we belong, we matter, we have been accepted. We are a part of God's family!

He will send His Holy Spirit to give us the power to be a Christian - the power to be His witness, the power to be filled with Him and share Him with all around us. The Holy Spirit is our strength, our boldness, our helper, our teacher, the revealer of truth. He makes the word of God understandable! We cannot do all that is involved with being a Christian without the helper, God's Holy Spirit!

Jesus says we are the salt and the light of the earth. Salt preserves. It was used as a preservative for meats and perishable foods until refrigeration came along. It heals. Salt can heal wounds. It also makes us thirsty. That's why the bars serve pretzels and nuts - to make us thirsty so we'll order more drinks! The light shows the way. A light house on a dark night is a wonderful sight to sailors who are out at sea - it leads the way to safety. A flashlight can be a lifesaver when there is only darkness. It's so wonderful to be able to swith on a light in a dark room. We are the salt - making people thirsty for more of the spiritual, we are agents of God's healing touch, we teach people how to preserve their heritage in Christ. We are like the light house showing the way to God. "Thy word is a light unto my feet." The light leads the way - out of the darkness and into the light. When we are Christians we are observed!

Each of us is a part of the body of Christ. Each part is important, needed, required for the whole to function right.

We are not judged guilty when we are in Christ. We are not ruled by our sinful selves - we are ruled by the Spirit of God - if that spirit of God really lives in us. Ask Jesus to forgive your sins and allow Him to direct your life. Study the bible to find what God expects you to do.

Our homeland is heaven. We are waiting for Jesus to come and to rule all things. I am important.

Jesus is our intercessor. He intercedes for us when we pray to His Father. He stands between us and the evils of this earth when we ask Him to. No one condemns us. No one can stand against us and win. We only need to call upon the name of our protector, our intercessor - Jesus Christ.

I am a new creature in Christ - the old me is gone! Sometimes that old me tries to come back, but if I repent and stay close to my Jesus and ask the Holy Spirit to fill me anew, I know that old me has gone. I am a new creature.

We have the right to come to the Father through Christ. He raised us up with Christ and gave us a seat with Him in the heavens. And nothing, absolutely nothing, can separate us from God's love. Even when we feel separated, just remember - He hasn't gone anywhere! It is us who have moved away from Him, but He's always there waiting for us to come back. And He welcomes us with open arms.

God is our strength. God made us His chosen people. He sealed us with His spirit to show we are His. He put His spirit in our hearts to be a guarantee for all He has promised. Everything works for the good of those who love Him. He says: "You did not choose me, I chose you. And I give you this command: go and produce fruit, fruit that will last, then the Father will give you anything you ask for in Jesus' name.

I can do all things through Christ who stengthens me. He gives me what I need to accomplish whatever He asks me to do for His Kingdom. Jesus is the vine, we are the branches. Without the vine, the branches die. We can do nothing without Him! With Him we can bear much fruit.

I have been justified (Just as if I'd never sinned) through the blood of Jesus. Jesus paid for our sins and in Him we are forgiven.

We work together with God - do not let the grace you received from God be for nothing. God has made us what we are. He planned in advance what we are to be doing and He has provided the grace to do it. God will perfect what He has begun in me. He ain't finished with me yet!

God has made us His own children. Because of Jesus being sacrificed as the perfect Lamb of God and His precious blood being spilled for me and for you we have been adopted. Adopted into the family of God. We are royalty. We are co-heirs with Jesus to all that the Father has!

Do you know who you are?