Christmas brings the gift of hope

Why would God decide to be born as a tiny infant?

I am pondering this, as I sit here looking out my window at the beautiful white world around us. Cold, and lots of ice, but it's beautiful. And how sparkly the snow is that has not been walked on yet with the sun shine on it. The sparrows - lots of them - skitter in and out of the bushes to scratch and peck for something to eat.

Here is a world, Lord, that is full of innocence, hope - and violence. Sometimes it's hard to hold on to hope or see value in innocence when I find so much war, greed and selfishness when I read the newspaper or watch the news of the world we live in.....
and in my own heart, too.

Why, I wonder, into this world would God send this Holy Child, an infant, a tiny, defenseless newborn baby - a picture of both innocence and hope?

I have some memories of World War II. I remember the planes flying over, way high in the sky, and thinking (or hearing) they had bombs in those planes - I sure do hope they don't drop them here. I remember giving up all our luxuries - candy, sugar, extra food, rubber, new cars, new shoes - lots and lots of sacrifices - so our soldiers and military could have what they needed to win a war. I was scared. I feared that Daddy would be drafted and would have to go to war, like Uncle Pat and Uncle Buddy did. That worried me so much. But Daddy always assured me he wouldn't have to go. "They don't need old guys like me (he wasn't old, either) over there, and I am more needed here at home to be available at the barber shop for people to gather and talk about all their fears and losses". His younger brother, Pat, was killed in the final days of the war. I'll never, ever forget that fear and sorrow and sacrifice and doing without.

War is so terrible. Everybody suffers. And, you know what? These awful wars and fights have been going on since before Cain slew Abel. Into this God sent a helpless newborn to lead and inspire. And yes, to save us, though sometimes I think the saving part is as much about saving us from ourselves as anything else.

At that time I'm amazed God didn't look at our world in disgust, revoke his rainbow and send another great flood. But of course He already knew the flood hadn't really improved human behavior.

So God, with grace and goodness far beyond anything I can understand, sent the Baby Jesus. Our Christ Child, Emanuel, God in human form.

God's great generosity and faithfulness boggles my mind. How can I understand?

This year, as always, the Holy Child's message is love. Pure, unbounded love. Only love. And trust. God trusted us to lay eyes on this Child, kneel in awe and receive Him.

Let us gather again at the manger. Rejoice, God loves us beyond my ability to comprehend. God has not given up on us, and we cannot give up on each other. I also remember well the day the war was ended. Such rejoicing and celebrating. We all ran downtown to be a part of it all. America had the victory! We do know that God loved us so much, that He sent His only son, that whoever believes in Him may not perish, but have eternal life! This is the "Reason for the Season"! Pray for each other. Pray for our military. Pray for America.

Hope is born anew. MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

Psalm 32

Psalm 32 is worth the advent read and meditation.

It records the relief and joy David found in God's forgiveness. The last verse of it calls all of the people to praise and thank God, as does Psalm 33.

God forgives the sins of those who repent. Confession brings relief.

To say "I believe in Jesus" is not enough. You must be willing to acknowledge Him as the most important person in your life. You must be willing to say "I will do what He wants me to do above all else and above any demands that others may place upon me." You must say, and really believe it "Jesus is Lord"! If you will make that decision, I have great news for you -- I can promise you a very positive self-image. When Jesus is the most important person in your life, you will soon come to define yourself in the same way that Jesus defines you. You will begin to think of yourself as He thinks of you. And here's more good news: Jesus thinks you're great! He thinks you're terrific. He really does. He wants us to realize that once we accept Him as our Savior and Lord, we stand before Him as perfect! The bible says that my sin is blotted out. It is buried in the deepest sea - it is remembered no more.

What sin haunts your mind? Have you repented? If so . . . God forgives you. Now forgive yourself.

Christmas is a time of joyful Advent

Today is the beginning of the season of advent. It is a time of waiting - as Mary, the mother of God waited for the birth of her child. All of us remember the waiting for our children to be born.

Christmas is coming! Over the years I've experienced an incredible range of feelings about Christmas. As a child, I absolutely loved the presents, the Christ child nearby and angels singing. I love midnight mass with all the happy people, the beautiful music, the decorations, the food . . . and the presents!

As a mother, I wanted my children to have everything. I went overboard, as Phil occasionally pointed out.

Then, as they grew older, and eventually left home, each year it got to be really hard to have a "celebration" with some missing. Each year it felt more and more like chores, instead of fun!

Then I accepted Jesus as my Lord, invited Him into my heart, and He was real! The light returned and everything changed. Advent became my time of soul-searching, anticipation, actively waiting in prayer, meditation and study, learning more and more about the depths of His love for me and all of us!

Oh, it's my best season.

Christmas isn't about the presents and the hoop-la and all the glitter that seems to take over. It is the coming of hope and light into the world. Advent is our time to prepare our hearts for the coming of the Messiah. Let's await Him with joy and peace.

Some wonderful scriptures from the book of Tobit.

I am reading the book of Tobit during my prayer time these days. Be sure to read it someday if you can find a Greek translation of the bible, as it is not in the Hebrew translations. (Greek translations = The New American Catholic, or the Jeruselum versions, I think. Hebrew translations = King James versions, I think.) It is worth looking for and reading. Quite an interesting story. Tobit, the story of a dutiful son who is given miraculous help by an angel, is part of the Apocrypha - the 5 books (or parts of books) that are included in some bibles and not in others. (Tobit, Judith, Macabees 1st and 2nd books, and Ecclesiasticus.)

Here are a couple of verses from Tobit I wanted to share with all of you . . . .

4:7 - "Never turn your face from any poor man and God will never turn His from you."
I thought about this for quite some time, and realized that I have turned my
face from the poor!

And how Mickey that day we were having our dinner and party
at the park, took lots of that food and water and gave it to those poor,
homeless people who showed up. I don't think I could ever have done that! God
does not turn His face from you, Mickey.

4:23 - "Do not be afraid if you have grown poor. You have great wealth if you know
God (Jesus?) and if you shun every kind of sin and if you do what is pleasing
to the Lord your God." In other words, our greatest treasure and riches are
the ones we have in eternity with our God. Does anyone remember that
scripture, and where it is - one of the gospels. In these times we are facing
a future of uncertainty - here in this world - but, if we build up our
treasures in heaven, then we have everything! We are rich in our blessings!

And this next scripture is what I received for Josh as he is going off to training
for Afghanistan in a couple of weeks:

5:21 - "My child, prepare what you need for the journey, and set off with your
brothers. (your unit) May God in heaven protect you abroad and bring you all
back safe and sound! May His angel go with you and protect you, my child.
5:22 - The
son left the house to set out and kissed his father and mother. The father
said "Happy journey! His mother burst into tears and said 'Why must I send
my child away? The way of life God had already given us was good enough!'
'Do not think such thoughts. Going away and coming back, all will be well
with your child. On the day of his homecoming you will see for yourself how all is still well with him. Do not think such thoughts; do not worry on his account.
A good angel will go with him; he will have a good journey and come back well and happy." 6:1 "And she dried her tears."

I bought Joshua a small bible with a "marines" cover on it. It has a couple of pages in the front to write a message for him. I am going to write 5:21 there, along with other words of encouragement for him.

Sharon

Pray for Sharon tonight and tomorrow. She has another treatment in the morning. (Tues)

Father God, we know Your Word has become a part of her. It is flowing in her bloodstream. It flows to every cell of her body, restoring and transforming her body. For You sent Your Word and healed her. (see Psalm 107:20)

Your Word is manifest in her body, and will cause growths to disappear. These tumors and this cancer are a thing of the past. We make this demand on her cells and blood and bones: that they function properly, in Jesus' Name. (see Matthew 17:20 and Mark 11:23).

Heavenly Father, as we give voice to Your Word, the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus makes her free from the Spirit of Death. And Your Life is energizing every cell of her body.

Cancer, you must GO! Sicknesses from the treatments MUST FLEE! Tumors cannot exist in her, for the Spirit of God is upon her and the Word of God is within her. Sickness, fear and oppression have NO power over her for God's Word is what we claim for her, and it is what she believes! (again, Mark 11:23).

We praise you and we thank you, in Jesus' name (God's Word) for what you are doing in her body as we ask. Amen

Follow Jesus' Example

"We have around us many people (cloud of witnesses, some have passed on, and some are still with us - a cloud of saints!) whose lives tell us what faith means. So let us run the race that is before us and never give up. We should remove from our lives anything that would get in the way and the sin that so easily holds us back. Let us look only to Jesus, the One who began, inspires, our faith and who makes it perfect. For the sake of the joy which lay before Him he endured the cross, heedless of its shame. And now is sitting at the right side of God's throne! (the highest honor). Remember how He endured the opposition of sinners; hence do not grow despondent or abandon the struggle." (Never give up!) Hebrews chapter 12, verses 1-3

Jesus hears all the voices of all the people who follow Him. And He sees you! From the very first man (Adam) to the infant born as you are reading these words. He sees and He hears them all! (Read Hebrews chapter 11)

And you can be sure of this: Among the voices that found their way to Him who is seated at the right hand of the Father, was your voice . . .

And not only did He hear you, He saw you. He saw your face beaming the hour you first knew Him. He saw your face in shame the hour you first fell. The same face that looked back at you from this morning's mirror, looked at Him. And it was enough to kill Him! He died a torturous death on the cross because of YOU! He could not bear the sight of sinfulness and evil in the world, He could not bear the thought of your hopelessness - so He took it all to the cross, where it all died with Him! And he does this every day! He saved YOU, and all of us, and all who are willing Follow Jesus' Example! It wasn't easy for Him, and for sure, it's not easy for us. But the Joy that follows is worth it all!

Look for joy in difficult times. As Sharon tells us often - laugh every day! How can others benefit from your struggle? Look beyond the pain and struggles and find God's purpose for your life. Ask Him to reveal it to you. Then pay attention - because He will show you.

Hebrews 13:15 - "So through Jesus let us always offer to God our sacrifice of praise, coming from lips that speak His name. Do not forget to do good to others, and share with them, because such sacrifices please God." And verses 20-21 - "I pray that the God of peace will give you every good thing you need so you can do what He wants. I pray that God will do in us what pleases Him, through Jesus Christ, and to Him be glory forever and ever. Amen"

Be sure to read Psalm 126 - it's a short one.

Let's share with each other here - ways we've found joy in our difficult times. What brought us to tears and what did we find of joy in those tears?

Have you realized the purpose of your struggles and pain? What is it? I know my purpose is not any grandiose thing like I thought it was supposed to be when I first accepted Jesus into my life. One day I heard loud and clear the saying I'd heard so many times: BLOOM WHERE YOU ARE PLANTED!!! God wanted me to teach my own family and those I come in contact with so often. This reading from Hebrews was very eye-opening to me as I grew in the Lord. There are so many "saints" around me, both in the heavens now, and living around me, who were great examples of Jesus and how He intends for us to live. And then He showed me all the people around me who really didn't know Jesus and He wanted me to introduce them to Him. That is my purpose. My "Mission Field". Another purpose I think for my life is intercessory prayer. So important. There are so many people and circumstances to pray for, and it seems like God puts them right in my world, and brings them to mind when I need to pray. At times I don't really even know the people I am praying for, but God puts them in my mind, so I pray! I don't understand that part so much, but I do it. And, of course, we all need to pray for America. She needs God's help and protection more now than ever before. Another time I'll share some of how these unknown people and unknown circumstances prayers are answered. Can you share, too?

God bless you all.

Heloooo!

Hello out there in blogasphere - anybody there? I am wondering if anyone is reading this sight. If so, could you please put comments on the blog post? I hope you're out there. I'll publish some more thoughts if I think anyone is following.....and maybe I will even if no one is! Just a short comment will do. I just want to know someone is interested. Even if you disagree with what I write, I would like to hear those comments, too!

God's standards

I used to wonder how to remember all the commandments of God. When I was a kid I memorized the Ten Commandments in catechism. But there are so many other commandments in the Bible - - hundreds of them. Then I discovered a wonderful fact - that the first and greatest commandment is to love God . . .

So it isn't as complicated as I had thought! Love God completely, and love your neighbor as yourself. Do to your neighbor as you, in your best moments, want him or her to do to you. If we obey only these two basic laws, we will be obeying all the others, too.

It is wonderful of God to tell us what He allows and what He prohibits, what He likes and dislikes, for we might otherwise be unsure of ourselves and unsure whether or not we are loving God by obeying Him. We all need rules to guide and protect us. If you are a parent, God has set the example, and He has set that same example for all people:
LOVE!!!! God has set clear, fair guidelines and He expects us to stay within those guidelines. Just like a parent, He will be firm in implementing them.

Read Mark, Chapter 12, verses 30 and 31. And the book of Proverbs has lots of wise commands from the Lord. Here are two: Prov. Chapter 28, verse 23 - "Those who correct others will later be liked more than those who give false praise", and Chapter 29, verse 25 - "Being afraid of people can get you into trouble, but if you trust the Lord, you will be safe."

Moving into the larger life

So, where are you in trusting God? Is there some area of life that you need for Him to make larger or better? Can you trust Him to do that? Here a few tips for living it out: (Pages 42-45)

1) Know Who it is You are Trusting

Read the Bible and learn about God's character. The more you know about Him the easier it will be to trust Him. You might want to read the Psalms. You'll also want to get to know Jesus, for Jesus said that if we have seen Him, we have seen the Father. See John 14: 9. In fact read all of John. Look at the pages of John, and the other gospels, too, and see Jesus's love, His care, His compassion, and His power. That is who you are trusting. Watch Him as He deals with His sheep, and remember that you ARE one.

2) Decide What Needs to Change, and Define the Steps

Look at the areas of life that you want to be different, and ask yourself how much FAITH you are exercising in those areas. What first step do you need to take? Know that God will always be there to catch you if you fall, and He will always have your best interests in mind.

3) Ask yourself if there was anything from your past that has harmed your ability to trust. Was it people? The church? Did you have a traumatic experience? Find out where you got your "trust map" and begin to rewrite the path of your future. If necessary, get some counseling to help.

4) Share in the Faith Testimonies of Others

The Bible says that what others have done and what God has done in their lives helps our own faith. You will be amazed as you learn what God has done in the world, in our communities, in our circles of friends and family. Trust is a muscle that can grow as you learn to be certain that He can bring about what you cannot see. Of course you can't see it yet! It will only come into being as you take that step, the step of trust. Find a bible study, a prayer group, a community that will share their experiences with you, and you can share yours, too.


Now, I've shared what the key is that opens the door to blessing. Trust is the key.
The rest of this wonderful book is spent looking at some of the secrets God has given us so that it might go well with us in the areas of life that matter to us most: Our emotional well-being, our relationships, and our purpose. We will find that the Creator Himself has told us how to make the life He created work best. And then the final chapter brings you back to some UNRELIGIOUS secret things of God that will ground you and prepare you to live out all the secrets you've discovered in this book.

So see if you can find your book "The Secret Things of God" by Dr. Henry Cloud, and your bible, read them, and Let's go unlock some treasures!

*************************************************************************************

This will be all I'll write on this "book report". I do encourage you to find this wonderful book and your bible and read "the rest of the story". And go on a treasure hunt - you won't be sorry. You'll be "rich".

James 2:17 and Deuteronomy 4:29

Trust God Even When You Don't Understand

There are so many times when we pray and pray and seek God and what we ask for is not the way it turns out. What then?

There are 3 examples I think of for now: Josi whose life was spared through a miraculous discovery by a dog as she lay in the muddy field face down, unable to move after a terrible car accident that should have taken her life. She was spared. Now 3 years later, she is still fighting to be able to walk, talk, eat - I guess you could say she was spared, but for what purpose? We pray and pray, and nothing changes much. She was only 17 at the time. Our nephew, Mike, suffered with cancer, and died - in the prime of his life - 48 years old! He was a wonderful man, left his young son and wife. So heartbreaking. He is the uncle of Josi. We are very close to that family, and this is so hard for us. My sister, Pat, suffered with bladder cancer and fought the good fight, almost conquering the beast, and then succumbed to it on July 4th last year. We were devastated!

I know Josi has a purpose for her life. Her Dad, Joe, told me that he knows what the purpose is - because of this awful accident and her "miraculous" rescue, it brought his family to the Lord. They came together to pray every day, and God is present in their prayer - they FEEL him there!

It was so hard to understand why God would take Mike at such an important time in his life. And Patsy, too. But when we went to their funerals, pretty heartbroken over their deaths, it was not a gloomy funeral - either of them - it was more like a celebration.

That's because both Patsy and Mike were believers in God and heaven, and people got up and shared mostly about where Patsy and Mike are now, and how they all knew they would see them again. Everyone was sad, and tears flowed, and stuff, we miss them . . . but we were okay with it in another way. I think it's because we truly, really believe we will be with them again. I know that is true.

Because Jesus said he would take anyone who believed in Him with Him to heaven. I know that Jesus lives today, because I have seen him do so much over the years. I can honestly say that I know Him. So, when someone dies, we can know that we will see them again in a very real place just like now. And that is why the Bible says that as believers, we do not 'grieve like people who have no hope.' Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13 - 17. We are sad, but we are certain that it is not over.

Do I ever have doubts? Yes! I used to have lots of doubts, but I am realizing more and more that God the Father, Jesus His son, and the Holy Spirit is REAL! There is a lot I don't understand, especially when bad things happen, like Josi's accident, and Mike and Patsy's death. But I know He is real, and I trust Him with the things I do not understand and take comfort in the fact that He gets it even when I don't.

It's kind of like when my kids and grandkids were little, and things would happen that I understood, but they didn't get it. When they would ask, I'd explain, but they still didn't understand. When they were pre-school and young children they were not yet capable of understanding the things that adults can fully comprehend. So they would say "oh" and ask "when's supper"? Somehow you were all okay with the fact that you didn't get it, but I did. And I guess that's how I am. I don't have a problem with the fact that there are things I do not understand about God or why He allows some things to happen. If I can understand things my kids can't, I can certainly see how an infinite God can understand things that I can't.

When we connect ourselves to the SOURCE of all that's good, we open our lives up to unimaginable blessings. Reflect awhile on this truth and the power of this secret of God. Then maybe you will want to share what this all means to you!

(from pages 40 - 42)

Trust God's character - not any particular outcome

What about the times when things don't work out so well? Does this mean that God has let you down?

The Bible is very clear on this: we do not trust God based on particular outcomes we can SEE, Our trust is based on His love for us and His character. The character of God and our journey with Him is what matters. He is pleased by our faith, our trust. It's easy to believe God on the mountaintop; but when we're in the valley and it's dark and we feel all alone, that's when our faith is tested.

As you all know, I Love to go to the mountains and enjoy the smells, the sounds, the sights - but every year when I have to come down from the mountains, I go through a time of darkness, feeling like I wish I could stay there in the mountains forever. Then, I have to pull myself together and get back to my regular life again! That's where I am and what I'm going through right now. It seems to happen every year. So I guess I can relate to what the author is saying about the mountaintop and the valley. The mountain top is when everything is going well, and we can know God loves us, and we experience Him and how He is working in our lives. The valley is when things go wrong. It seems as if God forgot us, like He isn't listening or noticing our needs. When we lose a loved one, a job, our health, or a relationship, these are the times when trusting God is difficult. But - they are also the times when we need him the most. They are the times when we need to know that no matter how bad it is, God is there with us, that He loves us and is going to take us through whatever we face.

If we keep holding on to God during the dark times, we will find that He never ever leaves our side as we walk through the pain and that when we come out on the other side, He is still there beside us and that our faith has been strengthened in the process.

Sometimes He does not deliver us from our difficulty at all, but simply gives us His presence and the presence of others.

Read the book of Job in your bible. Now there is a man who went through everything that could destroy his faith in a God who cares, but He kept holding on to God no matter what. He knew He was the only and true God, that He is a good God, and that He loves us. The same for us - when we have that kind of faith, even when we don't understand it all, we know enough to trust God based on His love for us and His character. He WILL bring us through our difficulties. He DOES care and He loves us!

(from pages 38 and 39)

Dare to be Vulnerable

When I was a 4-H leader, I was privileged to be able to go to a camp in Idaho called "Chatcolab". I learned so much there about myself and that I could, indeed, be lovable and had a lot to offer my circle of people! I started going there before I was baptized in the Spirit. We learned a lot about trusting others and ourselves. One of the "games" we played was to trust someone in back of me to catch me. I stood in front of someone and just leaned back while the other person caught me before I hit the floor. That took total trust! I had a very hard time with it, because I was so afraid that I would fall to the floor and hurt myself or the one behind me. Try it sometime. It takes total trust.

Page 35 of this book:

"If we do not trust, we are limited to our own resources, and we weren't created to do it all on our own." I think of the birth of each of my 7 babies. I was totally in the hands of my Dr. during the births. I could not have done that all on my own. I had to trust the Dr and the nurses that they knew what they were doing to help each of them make their appearance into the world. And then the babies had no choice but to trust me and Dad and all the caretakers in their lives. Because they were cared for and nurtured and trusted those in charge, each of them learned what they needed to learn to stay alive and grow - how to eat, how to walk, how to talk - everything. Because the babies were vulnerable to the ones who provide what is needed, they thrived! The babies could not get those things on their own. They had to trust Dad and I to teach them, to nurture them, to love them enough to do what is good and right for them. They had to trust us to provide for them the food, shelter, clothing, etc., that they needed. Now, as adults, the grown up babies - and us - are the same.
We need to trust, we need to be vulnerable, we need to have faith in the heavenly Father who will always care for us. We just need to trust HIM.

Page 36: "So, what do YOU need to trust God for? Well, pretty much everything, but most of all, the things that you are not able to provide for yourself." On page 37 there is a list that may be helpful to help you see what you can trust him in and for. "Did you go through them with God, or did you try to go it alone? Next time, let Him help you with your needs." (you may want to read the list, or make a list about your own struggles and what you've tried to handle in your life - by yourself). "It's not trust if we have no need. Take a step. Jump in. Dare to believe. God will not let you down!" Maybe you could share ways you've trusted God in situations you could not handle without Him, and how you found He was there. Sometimes we don't see it until we look back and remember situations or times, and then we can say oh, yeah, that was God working in my life!

Some more tomorrow! In the meantime, make your list of what is in your life NOW that you need to trust God for - what is there that you cannot seem to accomplish on your own?

Trust is the key

On page 28 of this book:

Opening yourself up to the gifts of God means trusting that He loves you and will provide for you. It means daring to be vulnerable with both God and the right people. It often means trusting beyond what you can see. It means believing in the character of God even more than you believe in your desired outcome.

God's blessings await you. You hold the key that unlocks them: trust. Trust is the key that opens the door to blessings.

Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; depend not on your own understanding. Seek HIS will in all you do, and He will show you the path to take."

This secret of trust is the key that opens the door to all the other secrets. Through trust, or FAITH, we connect with God in a way that shows our reliance on Him and our surrender to Him. This is what He desires most from us.

When I first experienced my personal relationship with God, with Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, I had no idea what it meant to trust God, but I soon learned - I had to trust HIM, because there was nowhere else to go. Our home and almost all our belongings were consumed in a house fire. We had our 7 children, and thank God, we were not home when this happened. This was a big clue - that God was at work, and that I could trust Him to continue to take care of us. And He did!

In the book, on page 30, the author talks about an incredible picture of the sunset over an ocean. I have a picture like that in my "prayer room" bedroom. I am also reminded of looking up at the night skies in the mountains and seeing the millions of stars, the babbling and beauty of the creek, the birds with their wonderful melodies, all the beauty of His creation everywhere. Ralph Waldo Emerson had a quote under the author's picture: "All I have seen teaches me to trust the Creator for all I have not seen." I also think of how we are all created with the same parts to our bodies - intricate and perfect! Sharon reminded us of that in a previous post. Look around you. Someone had to have created it all! Someone a lot bigger and smarter than I.

We had to have a creator! He made us! He cares about us! He cares for us! There is the verse, and I'm not sure where it is, but I'll find it and post it here, that if God takes care of the birds of the air, then He can take care of me. This just blows me away - and to think I would have missed it if I hadn't "investigated" - and trusted - and found the key.

So, how do we unlock the secret of trust? The first answer is that we take that very first step of faith. Like the Nike commercial says, we just do it!

We don't always know what's in front of us or what will happen next; (sometimes we'd probably panic if we did know!) but if we know the One who knows, we can trust Him to take care of things because we know He loves us.

This will be all I'll write for today. As you think of these things, and "Trust" and faith, look around you, and count the many blessings God has given you. Thank Him from the bottom of your heart - and keep on trusting Him. He's there, longing to listen and wanting to bless you.

Maybe you could share some times when you had to have that faith in someone bigger and smarter than you - a CREATOR - a time when you trusted God and He directed your path.

I would like to share a bit about an answered prayer. Paul just called. His daughter Sandy and her husband live in Tajunga, Calif - right where the terrible fires were raging. They were in Red Lodge when the fires broke out. All was evacuated all around them, and they didn't know what to expect when they got home on Tuesday. I told Paul I'd be praying - and I did. Sandy called to say the fire had burned all around their subdivision and through some of it. They are the third house down the mountain from the forest that was burning. The fire stopped at the end of their street. Praise God! Some of their neighbors weren't as fortunate, so pray for all of those caught in that awful fire. Today is Sandy and Loren's 26th wedding anniversary!

The Search

I'm sorry I have been so "absent" from my blog for awhile. It's been a busy summer. But now I'm back, and I would like to share a bit of what I read while camping. It spoke so loud and clear to me, and blessed me immensely. I hope it will do the same for you.

I was reading 2 wonderful spiritual books. I read both of them over and over. They aren't very big books, but oh so good. The first one I'd like to share with you is "The Secret Things of God" - 1st Corinthians 4:1. (I gave each of you a copy of this book for Christmas last year. If you haven't read it, you will want to find it and open the pages. Such a good book!)

*************************************************************************************

The first chapter beginning on page 1, is "The Search" - Seek ye first the Kingdom of God AND His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well - Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:33 and 34.

The second chapter beginning on page 15, is "If You Seek God, He Will Show Up". In Jeremiah 29:13 - 14 we read "You will seek me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart. I will be found by you, declares the Lord". You do not have to have the biggest faith, or belief, in the world. Just the act of believing enough to SEEK is enough for Him to come to you. (I asked for God, and Jesus showed up - page 21).

This is The secret! To live out this secret means that you will:

1 - Seek Him in the quiet of your heart - go to a quiet place and tell Him you are looking for Him. Pour out your heart. Ask Jesus to meet you and come to you. Ask Him to show up in your life.

2 - Seek Him with another or others. Get together with someone or others who know Him well. It may seem strange, but you will find it one of the most incredible spiritual experiences you can have. Ask that person or persons how he found God and what God does in his life.

3 - Seek Him by reading the bible. He will talk to you there. It is His love letter to you. If you are not one who reads the bible much, start in Psalms and the book of John. Talk to God about what you are reading, and sit still and let Him talk to you.

4 - Seek Him for the answers you need in your life. Relationships, finances, troubles, healing, guidance, kids, or whatever you need help with.

SEEK AND YOU WILL FIND!!!!

On page 14, it says: No matter where you are in your faith journey - whether you are just testing the waters to see if there is anything out there worth believing in or you are a longtime believer desiring a richer, more fulfilling relationship with the Creator of the universe - the starting point is always the same. SEEK!. This is where it all begins.

SEEK AND YOU WILL FIND.

************************************************************************************

This is only the first 2 chapters - very condensed and in my own words. You will want to follow along by reading it yourselves. And be sure to pick up your bible and seek some of the treasures that are in there. Please share here your thoughts and how God is speaking to you through your seeking and listening. If you can't find your book, or I didn't give you one, you will want to go purchase it for yourselves. It's a book that is worth every penny and the time spent in it. The author is Dr. Henry Cloud. Again - the book is "The Secret Things of God" - unlocking the treasures reserved for YOU"

Tomorrow I'll share some more of what is in this wonderful little book. See you then right here!

Soemthing from Dr. Jeremiah on Turning Point

GOD NEVER SAYS "OOPS!"

A Letter I sent to Tiffany awhile back...thought I'd share

Faith vs. Fear

Creflo A. Dollar

Dear Tiffany,
I have been praying for you, and found this fantastic article, and thought of you. I am sending it to you. I will pray that God speaks to your heart through this wonderful message.
I am behind you all the way, girl!!! (You may not remember me…Karen, Lonnie’s daughter…Your mom’s cousin, Your Grandma’s niece) I can’t wait to see you this summer.
Know you are loved and you have an army of prayer warriors in your path!
Love,
Karen Eve Tinnes

Many people think fear is a normal and acceptable part of life. I've even heard some people say, "There's nothing wrong with having just a little fear." Nothing could be further from the truth. Fear is anything but normal. From a natural perspective, fear is associated with simply being afraid. But spiritually speaking, fear is actually twisted faith. It is having faith in the devil and what he can do, rather than having faith in God and His Word.

Fear isn't just a feeling, it's a force. The Word of God defines fear as a spirit that doesn't come from God (2 Timothy 1:7). To live in fear sets you up for disaster because just like faith will connect you to the promises of God, fear will connect you to the things you fear. When you operate from a position of fear, you actually position yourself to receive the very things you are afraid of.

In examining fear and its impact on your life, it is important to consider words and their creative power. Words are spiritual containers that carry either faith or fear. Words of faith are encouraging, hopeful and in line with the Word of God. On the other hand, words of fear are full of doubt, unbelief, dread and despair. Fear–filled words go against what God has said in His Word and will cancel out the good things that He has planned for your life.

It is critical that you align your words with the Word if you want to override the spirit of fear when it tries to attack you. Faith–filled words empower God to move on your behalf.

Fear is designed to stop you from experiencing all that God has promised you in His Word, but the good news is that He has already delivered you from it. If you are in relationship with God, you don't have to be ruled by any type of fear.

Hebrews 2:14, 15 says, "Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage." Fear is the primary tool Satan uses to destroy people's lives. But the ability of the enemy has been annihilated by Jesus Christ. You are no longer subject to fear.

There is a way to flush fear out of your life if you find yourself struggling with it. The key is walking in the love of God and allowing His love to mature in your life. First John 4:18 says, "There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love." Every time you walk in love toward others (1 Corinthians 13) and maintain a consciousness of God's love for you, you kick fear out.

Once you get the fear out of your life, your faith "receiver" will be free and clear of all interference. You will then be able to believe God for His promises without hindrances. Allowing the love of God to rise in you will support your faith and position you to receive the blessings of God—healing, deliverance, safety, provision and financial increase.

In the midst of life's trials, refuse fear. I don't care what is going on around you. Resist fear with everything in you. Confess the Word of God over your situation until you begin to see things change. Stand firm on the Scriptures which will help to build your faith. Begin to praise God for what He has already done for you. Have confidence in God and His Word and don't let fear contaminate your faith.

TRAVELING MERCIES

Heavenly Father,

I humbly come before you this night and ask that you grant traveling mercies to ALL family members who are coming to Tacoma this coming weekend. Post your angels around their vehicles, airplanes, trains, rented cars and around them and allow no mishaps to happen. Keep them safe and happy and please allow them to arrive refreshed and ready to enjoy their time here. Please give all who are traveling good weather for their trip and give them the beauty of creation to marvel at as they travel. I love you, Lord. I know you have my loved one's safety and well-being in your hands. Amen.

Saturday, June 7, 2009 - day of prayer for Brian and Diane

This picture was taken at Diane's parents home in Kuhlmbach, Germany in 2006.

Ecclesiastes 9:7-9 -

"Go eat your food and enjoy it;
drink your wine and be happy,
because that is what God wants you to do.
Put on nice clothes
and make yourself look good.

Enjoy life with the wife you love. Enjoy the work you do here on earth. Whatever work you do, do your best."

and Ecclesiastes 3:13 -

"When you eat and drink and find happiness in your work, this is a gift from God."

God has gifted you - good jobs and all you need.

You are both so wise and lots of knowledge. Thank God for it, and pray for Spiritual Wisdom and Knowledge. "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and all these things will be given unto you."

God has blessed you. He IS blessing you right now.

*********************************************************************************

We know that someday our heavenly Father is going to take all those who follow Him into eternal happiness. It's to that day that we look. It's upon our hope and confidence that He will return that we stand. Our prayer should be that our Father will help us make decisions that will set us on the course of eternal life.

Listen to the Christ rather than to the voices of men. Jesus says you can't please men and still be a servant of God. Those who listen and follow Christ will be received into heaven by the pierced hands of the one who knows the freedom of giving up what you cannot own in order to receive what no one can take from you--eternal life.

Praise the name of Jesus. Lord, may we see the joy that is before us. Would you pull back the curtain and give us just a glimpse into the eternal life? Would you hear the yearnings of our hearts? Will you keep us close to you this day - and always?

Friday - June 5, 2009 - prayer day for Debbie

In my prayer for Debbie today, I turned to psalm 51: 10-13:

"Create in me a pure heart, oh God,
and make my spirit right again.
Do not send me away from you
or take your Holy Spirit away from me.
Give me back the joy of your salvation.
Keep me strong by giving me a willing spirit,
THEN I WILL TEACH YOUR WAYS TO THOSE WHO DO WRONG,
AND SINNERS WILL TURN BACK TO YOU."

Isaiah 55: 6, 8 - 9:

"Seek Yahweh while He is still to be found.
Call to Him while He is still near.
For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
My ways not your ways - it is Yahweh who speaks."

Psalm 37:7:

Be quiet before Yahweh, and wait patiently for Him."

Psalm 37:23:

"Yahweh guides your steps,
They are sure and He takes pleasure in your progress.
You may fall, but never fatally,
since Yahweh supports you by His hand."


Debbie - While in prayer I felt it is important for you to stay in God's word - daily!
I also think you need to re-join a bible study group. Seek truth. Pray. God wants to use you and will use you in a mighty way soon - TEACHING TRUTH !!!

Revelation 16:15 -

"Be on your guard! I come like a thief. Happy the one who stays wide awake and fully clothed for fear of going naked and exposed for all to see!"

This is speaking of spiritual clothes. Spiritual wisdom and knowledge. Stay clothed (in My word, says the Lord) so you won't be caught naked! Stay awake! (Be ready!)

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

The bible is like a treasure hunt. The more we explore and prod and poke around it, the more gems we find. If you want to grow in the Word of God, become a person with a chisel and and chop at the Word--look, explore, seek. Let The Word become Your word, and you will grow.

Father, we're amazed at how practical your Bible is. (Did you know that the word "Bible" means GOOD NEWS? Or the gospel truths? Isn't it better than reading the Bad News?) Who would have thought that daily help could be found in a book so old. Every time we open it we find it's not old at all. Help us to look for your guidance in that precious book. Make us aware of how precious your Word is. Bless those who share this Good News with everyone around them. Thank you, Father, for giving us this source of light and strength, and for giving us the opportunity to uncover the jewels waiting to be discovered in your holy pages.

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

Dear Lord - be with Debbie. Be her constant companion. Help her fight loneliness. Thank you for revealing yourself to her daily in her bible pages and her prayer. Thank you for her abilities and gifts to teach. Protect her from all harm.
In Jesus' name we pray - AMEN!

7 wonders of the world

Tuesday - June 3, 2009 - day of prayer for Linda and family

I couldn't find any recent pictures of the boys all together, so I posted a couple of my favorites. Aren't they the cutest!

June 3rd - 1st anniversary of Dennis destroying everything and going to jail. Linda has been cleaning up all the damages he caused ever since. A very tough year (or 3, really!)

Here is a scripture I found for Linda and her boys:

Isaiah 30:18 - 21

"Yahweh is waiting to be gracious to you, for Yahweh is a just God; happy are all who hope in Him. Yes, Linda and boys - you will live in Great Falls and weep no more. God will be gracious to you when He hears your cry; when He hears He will answer. Dennis - when the Lord has given you the bread of suffering and the water of distress, He who is your teacher will hide no longer. Linda and boys, whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear these words behind you - "this is the way, follow it".

Oh Lord, we all join together in placing Linda and her family at your feet. We praise you and thank you for being their God - for your grace, mercy, and protection!

Protect Joshua from harm in his travels in the Marines. Let no harm come to him.

We pray for Jeremy and Jade during the summer months. They need jobs. Thank you that Jeremy can work for Paul. Now he needs a dependable car to get there. Please provide for them. We pray for emotional healing of all the hurts and memories they've endured.

Prosper Linda in her work. Give her the energy and health she needs to do all she needs to do.

Guard their finances.

Guide them on their paths.

In the name of Jesus we pray! We plead the precious blood of the lamb over them, and over their doorposts, over their cars, their friends. No harm to come near them.

Thank you, Lord!

Day of prayer for Janet and family - June 2nd

From my journal of prayer for Janet, Eric, Arjay and Kailey:

Psalm 46:

God is our protection and our strength.
He always helps in times of trouble.
So we will not be afraid even if the earth shakes,
or the mountains fall into the sea,
Even if the oceans roar and foam,
or the mountains shake at the raging sea.

There is a river that brings joy to God,
the holy place where God Most High lives. (could this be speaking of the Holy Spirt?-
the River of Life?)
God is in that city, and so it will not be shaken. (God dwells in the praises of His people. God IS the Holy Spirit!)
God will help her at dawn.
Nations tremble and kingdoms shake.
God shouts and the earth crumbles.
The Lord All-powerful is with us;
the God of Jacob is our defender.

Come and see what the Lord has done,
the amazing things he has done. (I like to stop here and think of, or share with people, what He has done for me!)
He stops wars everywhere on the earth.
He breaks all bows and spears and burns up the chariots with fire. (weapons of war).

God says, "Be quiet and know that I am God.
I will be supreme over all nations;
I will be supreme in the earth" (I am your God, there is no other).

The Lord All-Powerful is with us;
The God of Jacob is our defender."

This scripture is so wonderful! Such great promises in it. Such hope! God is with us. Such great news.

Let's take a moment to think of some way God has answered prayers - ways He's touched our lives - ways He's let us know He is with us!

I know that God worked out our trip to Washington! We had all these plans made, reservations done, and everything - before we even knew Sharon had cancer. It started out to be just Bev and I going there sometime on the train. Then Mickey and Kay decided we just had to get together with Sharon (Bev and I because it was ages since we'd seen each other). Next thing you know Kay and Debbie decided to go, too. So Mickey suggested we send out invites to everyone and chose the date of June 12-15 because that is the date of their June Family Fun Day. So they did. Then Brian and Diane and Karen made their reservations to be there. Linda didn't want to miss out on seeing them, so she booked a flight too. Chad and Brea decided to come, and so did Rick! Then Bev and Mike got on board, and so did Maria! I do believe that was the work of the Lord. And Mickey and Kay co-operated with His plan. Otherwise it may never have happened. Praise God. (We will definitely miss having the rest of our family there - and the Friede's, but at least we get to be with all these family members!)

Do you have any stories of how God worked or answered prayers in your life? Please share.

Dear Lord - I pray for Janet and her family. I thank you for their jobs. Please keep them working and earning enough money to make it. I thank you for Arjay's abilities to build rockets and be a part of the space program, NASA. Protect all of them from the evil one. Thank you - in Jesus' name we pray - Amen!

||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||


I believe Psalm 46 is a word for Sharon, too - and all who read this blog.

A word for Sharon and for all of us: (from God)

Relax in My healing, holy Presence. Be still, while I transform your heart and mind.
Let go of cares and worries, so that you can receive My Peace. Cease striving, and know that I am God.

It is through knowing Me intimately that you become like Me. This requires spending time alone with Me. Let go, relax, be still, and know that I am God.

Monday - day of prayer for Karen, Chad, Brea,

This is a picture taken at Dry Wolf campground. We've had so much fun camping together, haven't we. (Sorta looks like they might NEED some prayers, huh)? The picture of Karen is from 2007.

Here is what I had in my prayer for Karen, Chad and Brea yesterday, June 1:

1 John 4:13-16 "We know that we live in God and He lives in us, because He gave us His Spirit. We have seen and can testify that the Father sent His Son to be the Savior of the world. Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God has God living inside, and that person lives in God. And so we know the love that God has for us, and we trust that love. God IS love. Those who live in love live in God and God lives in them."

God illustrates perfect love to us. We aren't always sure ourselves when we use the term love. That word has become one of the most widely mis-used words in our language. We use the word love to describe the basest as well as the most exalted of human relationships. We "love" to travel, we "love" to eat chocolate cake, we "love" our new car, or the pattern in wallpaper in our home. Why, we even say we "love" our neighbors--but most of us don't do much more than just say it and let it go at that! No wonder we don't have a very clear idea of what the bible means when it says "God is Love".

Don't make the mistake of thinking that because God is Love that everything is going to be sweet, beautiful, and happy and that no one will be punished for his sins. God's holiness demands that all sin be punished, but God's love provides the plan and way of redemption for sinful man. God's love is the cross of Jesus, by which we can have forgiveness and cleansing. It was the love of God that sent Jesus Christ to the cross!

Never question God's great love, for it is as unchangeable a part of God as His holiness. No matter how terrible our sins, God loves you. Were it not for the love of God, none of us would ever have a chance in the future life. But God IS Love and His love for us is everlasting! (from Peace With God by Billy Graham)

I am not sure why this was where I was led to pray for you guys today. Maybe it is speaking to your hearts. At any rate it is a good "teaching" for you and for all of us today.

Dear Lord, I pray for peace in Karen's heart. Let her feel your radiant light, warmth, peace and love. Give her the moments she needs to just sit in your presence and be quiet before you. Help her experience your throne of grace. And be with Brea in these trying times. And Chad, too. Bless them, Lord, with joy and your abundant love! Thank you, Jesus - in Your mighty name I pray!

A word from God for you:

"When you focus firmly on ME, My peace displaces all fear and worry. They will try to gain entrance, so stay alert. Let trust and thankfulness stand guard, turning back fear and worry before they can gain a foothold. Sit quietly in my light and my SON-shine, while I bless you with my peace and love. Words of a song we sing often are running through my mind - words for you right now: "Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful eyes - and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and love."

Red is the color for rejoicing

I thought this article was well worth printing here. It is excerpted from an article in our Tribune the day before Pentecost Sunday, May 31st. I added a few of my own words and experiences and subtracted a few of her words and experiences so as to make it relevant to our family and friends. Here it goes:

Pentecost remembers the Christian church's long-ago birthday in Jerusalem.

Every Pentecost I think, "Party on, people!" Our scriptures at mass on Sunday were all about the first pentecost. Red is the color of the Holy Spirit. The priest wore, red, the decor was all red. Dad and I wore red shirts to church. I can remember very few Pentecost Sunday masses that were a joyful celebration. And yet, it should be. It was the beginning of Christianity. Many passages in the scriptures say "Celebrate! Clap your hands! Play in praise before your God! Worship Him with stringed instruments, trumpets, tamborines, etc". Peter and the other disciples of Christ became bold after that first pentecost and went out and proclaimed Jesus as Lord without fear! You can read all about in the book of Acts.

The church should bubble with excitement. Often I think church people do not party nearly enough. Some people in church truly do behave as if our spirits are frozen. We sit unsmiling in the pews, annoyed when children bounce or adults clap. That's who I was until the Holy Spirit jerked my hands off my lap and said loudly - "bring 'em together, Lonnie. Raise your hands and receive what I have for you. Raise your hands in praise of me. Show your joy. Jesus Christ has lived for YOU!"

It was a challenge. At first I was all frowns and disapproval. So skeptical. What were these praise songs, singing the same simple lines over and over? "Give me the good old hymns and organ music," I said.

The Holy Spirit kicked me and said "Get a life, Lonnie. Have you bothered to find out what those simple, repetitive lines are? They're scripture. Sing them over and over until their meaning penetrates your hard head."

The Holy Spirit is not always gentle with me. Sometimes He knocks me down because I am being dull, dull, dull. The Holy Spirit, I've concluded, does not like dull. The Holy Spirit likes liveliness, sunshine, people with the energy to dance their faith the way King David did.

The Holy Spirit also loves the tiny, adorable hands of infants, horses running on the range with their manes and tails flying, spring crops pushing out of the ground, and people who love God praying silently in their beds.

Sometimes the Holy Spirit rushes like a mighty wind, as when he descended upon the disciples in Jeruselem that first time, placing tongues of fire on all their heads and allowing them to understand each other no matter what language each was speaking.


Other times the Holy Spirit is silent, or as quiet as a baby bird making its first chirp.

I am so grateful for the Holy Spirit in my life. He picks me up when I am down, cools me when I get overheated, settles me when I'm agitated. He sings me to sleep at night and puts a song in my mouth when I arise.

I am grateful for Pentecost and the coming of the church, and most of all for Jesus Christ, a man of such amazing courage and strength that He was willing to take on the whole world's burdens so that my burdens and yours might become a bit lighter.

I am so grateful. Let's celebrate! The color is red!

A prayer for Sharon

I know you have another chemo treatment on Tuesday. We are all praying for you. This scripture felt like God was speaking it directly to you, Sharon:

Isaiah 49:19

"Yahweh consoles His people (you, Sharon) and takes pity on those who are afflicted.

I will never forget you, My Sharon.

See, I have branded you on the palms of my hands."

(Rest in my arms, My child.)

June 1 - Chuck and Deedle's 13th anniversary!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, CHUCK AND DEEDLE! You are a great couple.

On Thursday, May 21, here is what I had journaled for my day of prayer for you:

Proverbs 23:22, 24, 25

"Listen to your father who begot you, do not despise your mother in her old age. (You do listen to your dad, and you honor your mom in her old age - Thank you!) The father of the virtuous man will rejoice indeed, he who fathers a wise man will have the joy of it. May you be the joy of your father, the gladness of her who bore you." (Indeed, you are!) You are a good man, Charlie Brown!

God, bless Chuck and Deedle. Thank you for their jobs. Thank you, Lord, for blessing both of them with abilities and talents to do your will. Thank you for bringing them together. Guard their finances. Help their house to sell - and sell fast - at the price they need and ask for it! Thank you, Jesus.

A prayer from the internet of September, 2001.

This prayer is such a good one. As we read it, pray it with all your heart. I am thinking of our upcoming family fun week-end as I pray it. I pray for all of us.

Please take a moment to relax your mind and humble your heart to focus on Christ. Allow God to be the only person on your mind while you read this prayer.

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

Forgive me this day for everything I have done, said or thought that was not pleasing to you. I ask now for Your forgiveness. Please keep me safe from all danger and harm.

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

Please broaden my mind that I can accept all things. Let me not whine and whimper over things I have no control over. Let me continue to see sin through God's eyes and acknowledge it as evil. And when I sin, let me repent, and confess with my mouth my wrong doing, and receive the forgiveness of God.

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

Continue to use me to do Your will. Continue to bless me that I may be a blessing to others. Keep me strong that I may help the weak. Keep me uplifted that I may have words of encouragement for others.

I pray for those that are lost and can't find their way. I pray for those that are misjudged and misunderstood.

I pray for those who don't know You intimately. I pray for those that don't believe. But I thank you that I believe.

I believe that God changes people and God changes things.

I pray for all my sisters and brothers. For each and every family member in their households. I pray for peace, love and joy in their homes that they are out of debt and all their needs are met. I pray that every eye that reads this knows there is no problem, circumstance, or situation greater than God. Every battle is in Your hands for You to fight.

I pray that these words be received into the hearts of every eye that sees them and every mouth that confesses them willingly.

This is my prayer. In Jesus' name, Amen

Day of prayer for Kay and Russ - May 28, 2009

Tomorrow, May 29, is their anniversary! Happy day to you.

This is the prayer I journaled today for you:

Read Ecclesiasticus (Sirach) chapter 39. These verses - 39 and 41 - especially stood out as I prayed for you: "All the works of the Lord are good, and He will supply every want in due time. So now, sing with all your heart and voice, and bless the name of the Lord."

Remember when you and Linda and Janet and Yo Yo (Linda's parrot) made that cassette tape for us for Christmas about 20 years ago? At the end of it you read Psalm 103. Read it now - it's so appropriate for you and Russ today! It is a wonderful prayer for you to pray in these tough times. (you and all of us as well)

There is a song we used to sing at prayer meeting that is stuck in my mind as I am praying for you. The words are "The Lord is blessing you right now, right now. The Lord is blessing you right now. You may not be able to see all that the Lord is doing for you, but the Lord is blessing you right now."

Praise you, Jesus. Thank you.

A special prayer and scripture for Sharon

From Ecclesiasticus (or Sirach) 38 1-15:

Honor the doctor with the honor that is his due
in return for his services;
for he too has been created by the Lord.
Healing, itself, comes from the Most High,
like a gift from a king.
The doctor's learning keeps his head high,
he is regarded with awe by potentates.
The Lord has brought medicines into existence from the earth,
and the sensible man will not despise them.
Did not a piece of wood once sweeten the water,
thus giving proof of its virtue?
He has also given men (i.e. the doctors) learning
so that they may glory in his mighty works.
He uses them (the medicines) to heal and to relieve pain,
the chemist makes up a mixture from them.
Thus there is no end to his activities,
and through him health extends across the world.

My child, when you are ill, do not be depressed,
but pray to the Lord and he will heal you.
Renounce your faults, keep your hands unsoiled,
and cleanse your heart from all sin.
Offer incense and a memorial of fine flour,
and make as rich an offering as you can afford.
Then let the doctor take over - the Lord created him too -
and do not let him leave you, for you need him.
Sometimes success is in their hands,
since they in turn will beseech the Lord
to grant them the grace to relieve
and to heal, that life may be saved.


(Ecclesiasticus forms part of the Greek Bible, though it does not appear in the Jewish Canon. It was written in Hebrew. It does not appear in some bibles, and does in others. My bible is the New Jeruselum Bible and it is in there. It is one of my favorite books. Lots of good stuff in this book, including the above passage.)


Dear Lord, we ask that you hold Sharon in your tender loving arms while she is having her treatment. Please allow her to know how much she is loved by you and by all who know her. Guide the doctors and nurses and all those in charge of her care. We pray that she will feel your touch and know you are present there in the treatment. Thank you, Jesus, for what you are doing for her now. And thank you for her wonderful family who are carrying her through this time of difficulty in her life. Bless them all. In Jesus's name we pray. Amen!

I love you, Sharon!

The Ten Commandments

The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:2-17 NKJV)
1 “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. You shall have no other gods before Me.
2 “You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; you shall not bow down to them nor serve them. For I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me, but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My Commandments.
3 “You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain.
4 “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work: you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your male servant, nor your female servant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.
5 “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you.
6 “You shall not murder.
7 “You shall not commit adultery.
8 “You shall not steal.
9 “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
10 “You shall not covet your neighbor's house; you shall not covet your neighbor's wife, nor his male servant, nor his female servant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor anything that is your neighbor's.”

I haven't been here in awhile

Hi everyone - I'm sorry I haven't posted lately. We've been so busy. We went to Boise for Easter - great time. We got home from there and then went to Lloyd Friede's funeral in Chinook a couple days later. Gordon came and stayed with us. After he went home our friends from camping from Minnesota and Eureka, Mt came and spent a couple nights. After they left, we started our painting job. We're painting the living room, dining room, and hopefully the kitchen. It started snowing the day after Ron and co. left and has still been snowing! We have 19 inches of snow as of 5:00 P.M. tonight. Everything is buried in snow. It is beautiful, and the moisture will be great for the summer months. I hope it stops soon. One good thing about it, though is that we didn't feel like going out in it, and the golf course was closed, so it was easy to resolve ourselves to staying home and painting! Maybe we'll be able to finish it soon. I will resume publishing posts on here soon. If anyone wants to publish a post or two here with some good teachings, or stories of your faith and answered prayer in your life, please feel free to do so.

In the meantime, I have been praying and jotting things down and I will share with you here when I can. Just know everyone is in my prayers.

I found this in my bible one of the days I was praying, jotted down on a scrap of paper. Something I heard on the 700 club once. I thought it was really good, so I'll post it today:

James Madison, the primary author of the constitution of the United States said this: "We have staked the whole future of our new nation, not upon the power of government - far from it! We have staked the future of all our political constitutions upon the capacity of each of ourselves to govern ourselves according to the principles of the ten commandments."

This, to me, is an amazing statement. All of our laws are 10 commandment based - or at least were in the past! I do pray we don't stray from the thoughts and purposes of the founders of our great country! Another important part of this to not forget is that each of ourselves has the right to govern ourselves . . . Not under the power of the government, but the principles of the ten commandments. God bless America!

Any thoughts on this out there?

Day of prayer for Chuck and family- Thursday, March 26

Psalm 16:11 - "You will show me the path of life, fullness of joys in your presence, the delights at your right hand forever." (Read all of psalm 16 and share your thoughts, please).

Isaiah 40:31 - "They that wait upon the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar as with eagles wings; they will run and not grow weary, walk and not faint".

In another bible the words "wait upon the Lord" were "hope in the Lord". That is so true. When we can look beyond our circumstances, beyond our surroundings and HOPE in the Lord, knowing that He is here with us and that He is at the end of our earthly journey, too, that does give us strength to go on.

Waiting on the Lord means directing your attention TO Him in hopeful anticipation of what He will do. It means trusting Him with every fiber of your being, instead of trying to figure things out by yourself.

God says: "I have promised many blessings to those who wait on me: renewed strength, hope, living above your circumstances, awareness of my continual presence. It also helps you to enjoy Me. In My presence is fullness of joy. It helps you be ready to do my will!"

A prayer for Natasha, John, and baby Kai - "Help this little family, Lord, to experience your presence in their lives. Help them to know the joy of knowing you in a personal way. Give them that desire to be with you in prayer every day. We pray for good jobs for Natasha and John so they can save some money and be able to get their own place to live. In Jesus' name we ask. Amen

Day of prayer for Linda and family - March 25

Today is the anniversary of our fire that destroyed our home and our possessions. Because of that we moved to Billings. I thank God for being able to move there. I'm sure Linda is, too. She had great experiences of her high school years and made some good friends. Also, she got to live near her cousin Darlene, who she had grown up with in Great falls. Darlene moved to Billings about a year before we did with her family. By the way, that day of our fire - March 25th, 1975, was a very bad snow storm and blizzard. And it is today, too. (Just an interesting date in our history I thought worth mentioning for some reason).

Love always protects you! It's like a coat - a covering over you with a cloak of love. Remember receiving this coat? You were nervous about a job interview, but when you got there it was easy. You were far from home - out of touch with your family and friends, lonely and afraid, but your mom sent a card and letter which comforted you - just when you needed it. You were in court - innocent and accused, a friend, and your sisters stood to defend you. You were covered with encouragement, covered with tender heartfelt care, covered with protection. COVERED WITH A CLOAK OF LOVE.

God says: "Never falter, go forward so boldly, so unafraid. I am beside you to help you, to strengthen you. Wonders have unfolded. Still more will unfold, beyond your dreams, beyond your hopes. ALL IS WELL!"

Day of prayer for Janet and family - March 24.

Even tough I've not been able to post here, I have been praying every day and writing in my journal. Some days I have nothing to write, but other days I do. So, I'll try to catch up now a little bit. I've gotten behind, and for that I am sorry. Please feel free to comment on any subject or prayer or word you see here. And also feel free to publish your own post here.

I'll resume where I left off.

Tuesday, March 24 - day of prayer for Janet and family.

God says to you - "Take time to bask in My love. Just find a spot you love to go to - perhaps a park in the court yard of Mayo (that's where I see you). Sit and close your eyes - feel the sunshine all around you - it is the SONshine. Hear the birds, the breeze in the trees, the people chattering, feel the breeze - open your eyes and look around. Everything you see and feel and hear is there for you to know My presence. Take time to relax. As you relax more and more, your grasping hand gradually opens up - releasing what worries you have into My care. Take My hand. I am there with you.

You can feel secure, even in the midst of big changes, through awareness of My continual presence. The one who never leaves you is the same one who never changes. Read it in Hebrews 13:8-I am the same yesterday, today, and forever. As you release more and more things into my care, remember that I never let go of your hand. This is your security, and no one and no circumstance can take it from you!"

My prayer

I don't know why, but I feel I need to comment on my prayer. I told you that I set aside each day of the week (7 days, 7 kids) to zone in on praying for each of my children and their families and their prayer requests, starting with Sunday for kay and ending with Brian on Saturday. I jot down in my prayer journal whatever I am reading in my bible, or listening to, or reading that seems to be important, or just the thoughts I have during that prayer time. I do a lot of praying - a couple of times a day. And I enjoy this time. What I want you to know about this is that what I write in this blog can be a word or a scripture or a thought for anyone, not only for the one I am praying for on that day. If it is speaking to you, then it is for you as well as for the one I prayed for that day. I also pray a lot for America. I believe we need a lot of divine intervention and help right now. Pray for America, pray for each other, pray for me, pray for you!

PLEASE PRAY FOR ME

I am asking for prayer. I just don't feel well. I will have biopsies on Monday, 30th and then will see my lung doctor on April 7th. Please pray that I will regain some energy and strength and the biopsy will go well. Plese pray for the pain in the largest lump on my neck to subside, as well as the naseau to subside. Ask that my anxiety level be manageable so that I will not be crabby to those that I have to deal with and so I can handle being inside the scan equipment during my biopsy. Thank you so much.

Monday - day of prayer for Karen, Chad, Brea,

Read Leviticus chapter 19, verse 18. It says: "Forget about the wrong things people do to you. Do not try to get even. Love your neighbor as you love yourself."

Jesus is a good example of this verse. He does not hold our wrong doings against us. He doesn't even remember our sins, if we confess and repent of them. He showed his love for us by going through all the awful things he had to do to take our sins to the cross and they were crucified there with him. I love the song "It is Finished"! Especially the Gaither's version. When Jesus's life was given there on that cross, he said "It is Finished". What is finished. The fight between evil and good. Good has won. Praise God.

Read Ephesians 1:3-14. In verse 5 we read "Because of His love, God had already decided to make us (you, Karen) His own children through Jesus Christ. That was what He wanted and what pleased him, and it brings praise to God because of His wonderful Grace."

We all want relationships in which we are accepted, valued, and wanted. We desperately long for this, but seldom experience the "real thing". Countless stories are written about this. Lots of our novels we read are just this sort of story. We experience it all our lives. We want to be accepted. We want to be in the inner circle. We read of men and women who are driven to succeed because they believe the lie that says their value is determined by the quality and level of their performance.

For the Christian, none of this futile struggle is necessary because we have been chosen by God. We belong, we matter, we have been accepted. No longer outcasts or second-class citizens, we are part of His family. This is what God wants you to know, Karen!

God offers you a family of friends and friends who are family - His church. When you trust in Him and believe in Him, He not only pardons you; He places you in His family of friends.

God heals His family through His family. In the church (a body of Christians) we use our gifts to love one another, honor one another, and carry each other's burdens. (Is Jesus calling you to become an active member of a church near you?)

Lord, be with Karen in these days before and after her knee surgery. Guide the doctors who will be working on her knee. Protect her from any harm with the anesthesia. Help her with the recovery and rehab time. Also, Lord, give her the right tools to be able to lose some of the weight she has gained since leaving Montana. Bring her peace in her heart. Lead her to some women who can be her good friends there. Lead her to a good church full of loving, welcoming people, who will be brothers and sisters.

Be with Chad as he goes overseas to France. And help Brea in her school and her work. Bless Rick. Help Rudy find a good job.

In Jesus' name, I pray - AMEN

Sunday - day of prayer for Kay and Russ

March 22, 2009

2 Timothy 2:8 "Remember the Good News 'Jesus Christ risen from the dead.'"

When times get hard - remember Jesus
When people don't listen - remember Jesus
When tears come - remember Jesus
When disappointment comes - remember Jesus

Remember the eyes of God that wept human tears. Jesus has experienced anything we could ever go through. Remember those times.

Rejoice and be thankful! As you walk though your days - walk with Me. Practice trusting and thanking Me all along the way. I do My greatest works through and for people with grateful, trusting hearts.

Lord, we ask you to bring forth that perfect job for Russ - and soon! We pray that he not grow discouraged and give up trying. We pray that you be in the job hunt with him. We pray that he not pass up that perfect chance.

We also ask, Lord, for Kay's boss a tendering of his heart. Help him to think before he speaks and yells and puts her and everyone down. She does a good job. Help him to know how far a simple "thank you - good job" will go.

We pray for Russ's dad, who is in the hospital in Denver with internal bleeding. Help the medical community to be able to diagnose his condition and find the problem and cause of the bleeding.

We thank you, Lord, for all you've done and all you will do for these two, your precious children.

Saturday - day of prayer for Brian and Diane

March 21st. Isaiah chapter 12 is 2 hymns of Thanksgiving. Read the whole chapter. Verses 5 and 6 say "Sing praise to the Lord, because he has done great things.
Let all the world know what He has done.
Shout and sing for joy, because the Holy One of Israel does great things before your eyes!"

And the last psalm in the book of psalms - psalm 150:

"Praise the Lord!

Praise God in his temple;
praise Him in his mighty heaven.
Praise Him for His strength;
praise Him for His greatness.
Praise Him with trumpet blasts; (and trombones, too!)
praise Him with harps and lyres.
Praise Him with tambourines and dancing;
praise Him with stringed instruments and flutes.
Praise Him with loud cymbals;
praise Him with crashing cymbals.
Let everything that breathes praise the Lord.

Praise the Lord!"

And then God spoke this word for you:

"Remember that I am your song. I want you to share my joy, living in my presence. Rejoice as we journey together toward my heavenly home; join me in singing my song".

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

The Biblical Virtue prayer: "Father, grant that we may show proper respect to everyone as your word commands" 1 Peter 2:17 - "Show respect for all people: Love the brothers and sisters of God's family, respect God, honor the King (our president)".

In Matthew 18, verses 10 through 14 we read of a Lost Sheep:

"Be careful. Don't think these little children are worth nothing. I tell you that they have angels in heaven who are always with my Father in heaven.

If a man has a hundred sheep but one of the sheep gets lost, he will leave the other ninety-nine on the hill and go look for the lost sheep. I tell you, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that were never lost. In the same way, your Father in heaven does not want any of His children to be lost".

When Jesus told this story, I bet some of the people who were listening wiped away a tear because they knew how it feels to be lost among the crowd. Jesus wants us to understand that we have a Father who sees and cares for each one of his children--that we are all equally valuable to Him.

No one is useless to God. No one, at any point in his life, is useless to God--not a little child, not the unattractive, not the clumsy, not the tired, not the discouraged. God uses His children. He values us just because we are His children. His value system is not based on the Ph.D. after our name or the amount of money in our bank account. We have value simply because we are. In the eyes of God, every human has value simply because he or she is the creation of the almighty God. YOU ARE WORTHWHILE!!! Respect yourself. Respect others, as they are also children of an almighty God. And respect authority that God Himself has placed in your life for your good. Pray always for one another and for our president, parents, bosses, teachers - anyone in authority over you.

Friday - day of prayer for Debbie

March 20, 2009

I got this while in prayer today, and felt like there is an urgency about it. It's time to be ready! Some of this is for Debbie, and I'll point that out as it comes, but part of it is for all of us. A warning for us!

Read Zechariah, Chapter 14, verses 1-4. I know this was written for a time long before our time, and for the city of Jeruselum, but I do believe God speaks these words to us and to our nation today.

In the introduction to Zechariah in my bible this is what it says:
*****************************************************************
You wake with a start, sweating profusely. You aren't sure what the dream was about, you just know it was bad. You remember trying to run in the dream, but not being able to move your legs. It was pure fantasy, but it felt real and it was enough to wake you up.

Dreams can be caused by indigestion, anxiety, desires, concerns, and other mental emotional conditions. Dreams can be fun, entertaining, and even enlightening. But they can also invoke fear, stress, and outright terror.

Zechariah, God's prophet in Jerusalem more than five hundred years before Christ, had a series of nighttime experiences that kept him awake for a week. More than mere dreams, these were visions of God's future plans for His people, including a description of the Messiah. Through these visions God gave his message to Zechariah, who then faithfully relayed them to his family, friends, neighbors, countrymen . . . and us.

As you read Zechariah, take hope in knowing that God controls the future, YOUR future, and that the King is coming. Then get a good night's sleep.

***********************************************************************

After I read those first 4 verses, I prayed and prayed and prayed. These are the words I received, and I believe they are words from the Lord. Please help me discern what I heard.

"The storm is coming - be ready. Get ready - be prepared. 2 Corinthians 6:2 "NOW is the day of salvation!" PRAY!!!! Read Matthew 24. Verse 21 says "Terrible times are coming - a time of tribulation like no other".

(This next part is what the Lord answered for Debbie's prayer - Mark 16:15. "Tell everyone - proclaim the gospel!" (For all of us, too)

Matthew 23: 36, 37 (read all of chapter 23) "All of this will be the fate of the present generation" "How often have I yearned to gather your children (and I'm thinking of Dad in this, too) as a mother bird gathers her young under her wings, but you refused me" vs 39 - "I tell you, you will not see me until you declare "Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord." My thoughts on this - when we accept Jesus as our savior, then we declare "Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord" and we are gathered under his wing.

This is how we need to prepare. Come to Jesus - accept Him as your Lord and Savior - then batten down the hatches! The storm is here, and getting worse!

Psalm 50 verses 1-15 for Debbie. Read those verses. Encouraging words, for sure.

The Lord says: "My spirit is able to work more freely through you in a spirit of thanksgiving. Always have an attitude of gratitude. I shower you with many blessings daily, but sometimes you don't notice them. When you are stuck in a negative focus, you don't see me or my gifts. So, in faith, always be thankful for whatever is pre-occupying your mind. This will clear away anything blocking you from finding me. I'm always with you - always blessing you - you need to live in thanksgiving for all things - praise (thanksgiving) will bring you out of your bondages, your prisons, into freedom in ME!!!!

Biblical Virtue # 8 - Mercy

Prayer: "God, help us always to be merciful, just as our Father is merciful" Luke 6:36.

During this time of lent, God's mercy is so much on our minds as we meditate on the readings and the stations of the cross and all that we do to prepare for the glorious resurrection of our Lord, Jesus. Because God is so merciful and loves us so much, He sent his only begotten son to die on the cross for our salvation. He had mercy on our souls. Thank God. What do you suppose would be our plight if He hadn't gone through with this plan. Have you watched the movie "The Passion of Christ". This is a good time to watch it, and feel it, and pray it. Especially good to watch between noon and 3:00 on Good Friday. A hard one to watch, but it really portrays what Our Lord went through for US!!!! Don't you wonder why? Why would he do that for us. And He did it while we were still sinners! And still does. Our God is a merciful God. He asks that we have mercy on others, just as He has mercy for us!

"Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner. And have mercy on the whole world!"

Thursday: Prayer for Chuck and Deedle

March 19, 2009 - Kai's 1st birthday. I know it is very hard for you that she is not there for you to celebrate her 1st year with. She has moved to Denver with her parents. I am praying for her especially today. Dear Lord - Bless Kai. She is such a beautiful, precious, special gift from you. Guard and protect her there in Denver. Let no harm befall her. Help her parents to know you as their Lord and Savior. Touch all of their lives and bring them joy, peace and love. Thank you as you work in their lives, Lord Jesus. Help Chuck and Deedle as they cannot have her around and watch her grow and become a 2-year old. She is always in your heart, Lord, and she's always in our hearts! Thank you, Jesus.

For Chuck and Deedle: Colossians 1 verse 27 - "God decided to let you know this rich and glorious secret which He has for all people. This secret is Christ Himself, who is in you. He is our only hope for glory." This is what drives you on. You are full of Christ - full of His spirit - full of hope for the glory that is yours at the end of the journey.

1 Corinthians 6:17 - "Anyone who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with Him." And verse 20 - "You are not your own property - you have been bought and paid for. That is why you should use your body for the glory of God."

God's word to you:

I am speaking to you from the depths of your soul. Feel and hear Me speaking words of peace, assuring you of My love. I do not accuse you - that is not my voice. My voice is gentle and full of love, lifting you up. My spirit will be a voice of correction out of love - no crushing words of shame and guilt. I live within you. You are filled with the light of My presence. Don't dim the light with worries or fears. I am with you - ALWAYS!

(This could be encouragement and word for any one who feels God's spirit speaking to their hearts. Please share.)

Joan update

Mary Ellen and Jean talked to Joan this morning. She told them she is going home today! She just had her surgery yesterday. She should be going to a rehab place for recovery and PT. But they have no bed for her, so they sent her home! Donna is flying to Billings in the a.m. to help her. Please keep Joan in your prayers - and thank you for the prayers already. She seems to be doing great says Shirley and Jean. Also, Donna could use some prayers also. I know they'd like cards. Send to the address I gave you yesterday.

Prayer Request for Brea

Remember when Brea had a fender bender the day before I moved to NY, It was Nov 7th, 2007. She hit a 70 yr old woman. THe woman did not go in the ambulence. Brea never thought anything of it and was relieved she did not hurt anyone. Well, yesterday, Brea's insurance company called Rick and told him she is sueing them for all the hospital bills for 2 yrs. Brea called me very upset. I am not sure what is going to happen, but please pray for this situation to work out.
THANK YOU!

Today's prayer for Linda, Josh, Jeremy, Jade, Dennis and Jim

Psalm 37:23-28 for Linda and boys

"The Lord guides your steps, they are sure and He takes pleasure in your progress;
You may fall, but never fatally - since the Lord supports you by the hand.
Never yield to evil, practise good, and you will have an everlasting home
For the Lord loves what is right, and never deserts His faithful ones"

Vs 29 God speaking to Dennis and Jim

"Criminals and those who do wrong will perish once and for all,
The just and virtuous will have the land for their own, and make it their home
forever." (Jim and Dennis have lost such a treasure of their wife and family and
their home!)

Vs 39 and 40 for Linda

"HE is your shelter when trouble comes. The Lord helps and rescues you,
He saves you because you take refuge in Him."

And then this message for you and the boys: "You are mine - forever - even into eternity. You are secure and safe in Me! Even if you fall as you go through life, I will never let go of your hand. As you go through this day, be on the lookout for all that I am doing. Know that my way is perfect. Trust Me! Walk close with me. I am here."

These scripture words and this message seem to be speaking of being protected from Dennis when he gets out of jail and Warm Springs, and protection from any harm Jim can do. . . For you and your boys - and for all who are involved!

Thank you, Lord, for these words of encouragement and courage. Thank you for allowing us to know that you are a just and merciful God, and will protect those who do right. Thank you, Lord!

(I'm sure these scriptures and message are meant for anyone who reads this!)

Prayer Tuesdays

Tuesdays are the day I pray for Janet, Eric, Kailey, and Arjay

On Tuesday 2/24/09: Janet - you are a joy! Wait it out - but keep on doing what you know is right - keep your joy - God's answer is coming! Don't give up! Isaiah 61:7 - Everlasting joy shall be yours. Hebrews 10:30-31 - Keep doing what is right.

On Tues, Mar 3 - for Arjay - Same as for your mom - wait it out. Don't give up! Trust in ME, says the Lord.

On Tues, Mar 10 - This scripture for Janet:

Isaiah 49:13-25 (My version)

vs 13 - "Sing out, O heavens, and rejoice, O earth, break forth into song, you mountains" (Listen, Janet for the song). For the Lord comforts you, Janet and He shows mercy to you and your family." But Janet replies

vs 14 - "The Lord has forgotten me; I am not important to Him - He doesn't know I'm here"!

vs 15 - "Can a mother forget her baby? Be without tenderness for the child of her womb? Even if she should forget, I will never forget you.

vs 16 - See, Janet, I have written your name on the palm of my hand"

vs 23 1/2 - You shall know that I am the Lord, and those who hope in me shall never be disappointed."

vs 25 1/2 - I, myself, says the Lord, will fight with those who fight you, and I, myself will save your children!"


Wow - what more can we ask for as an answer to prayer for you and yours!