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!)

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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.

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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!

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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!

Prayers, please

Please pray for Chuck and Deedle. They are very sick and have missed a couple of days of work.

Pray for Joan Kimmet. She has knee replacement surgery on Monday. Ouch!

Pray for me. I have cataract surgery at 6:45 a.m. Mainly, pray that I can wake up that early.

Thanks, everyone.

Lonnie

Prayer for Karen

Monday, March 9 - prayer for Karen, Rudy, Rick, Chad and Brea

This word seems to be for Karen today, but it is also for any of us. "Rest in my presence. The world around you is spinning faster and faster and more and more complicated. Rest in my presence - a cushion of calm awaits you there. Go there - and go there often - for this is where you are energized; filled with my love, joy, and peace. Learn to depend on me. Find your completeness in me. Help others without using them to meet your own needs. Live in the light of my presence, and your light will shine brightly into the lives of others." Read Galatians Chapter 5, verse 22

My prayer

I pray for all the prayer requests I receive every day. But, I also pray for each of my kids on their own specific day - 7 kids, 7 days in a week - so I pray for Kay and Russ on SUNDAY, Karen, Chad, Brea, Rudy, Rick on MONDAY, Janet, Eric, Arjay and Kailey on TUESDAY, etc, etc, etc . . . . and then I also include everyone in each day, as the Lord reminds me to pray and brings names to my mind as I pray. I'd like to start sharing what I receive during these prayer times here. Maybe this will be helpful to more than just the one I am praying for for that day. I will post them with the name of the one I am receiving the message for, but please put your name in there as you hear a word for you, too!

This will be my first posting.

On March 8 - Sunday - praying for a job for Russ:

God says: "Thank you for returning to church! You honor me, and I will repay you!
I am always communicating with you - always! To find me and hear my voice, you must seek me above all else. Anything you desire more than me becomes an idol. Instead of trying on your own to achieve your goal, talk to me about it. If the goal fits into my plans for you, I will help you reach it. If it is contrary to my will for you, I will gradually change the desire of your heart. SEEK ME FIRST AND THEN THE REST OF YOUR LIFE WILL FALL INTO PLACE PIECE BY PIECE." Read Matthew Chapter 6 and 1st Chronicles Chapter 16, verse 11. Pray the chaplet of Mercy. I gave it to you, Kay, along with the rosary for Christmas. GOD IS GOING TO SEE YOU THROUGH!!!

#8 - Mercy

"May we always be merciful, full of compassion, just as The Father is merciful" - Luke 6:36.

The bible is so full of this prayer. Mercy! Lord have mercy! Lord, have mercy on our land, our nation, our family, me! And even - Lord have mercy on my enemies! It's amazing as I was studying this virtue in the scriptures how connected all the virtues are to each other! Salvation - Grace - Love - honesty and integrity - self control - justice - and now mercy. Do you see the connection as you read the words? I've read somewhere before that grace is getting what you DON'T deserve, and mercy is NOT getting what you DO deserve. As we think of it, how true it is!

Our God is so merciful and good. He has so much patience with the people He created. Such wonderful mercy. Hard to even fathom it! And we are called to do the same! Oh my. Throughout history, we can see how merciful our God has been. We see it all through the bible. The bible is so full of all these virtues.

All of us, with some thought, could come up with many of our own stories of how Christ has shown us mercy in our lives. Offering hope when we felt hopeless, forgiveness when we felt unforgivable, and healing when we were broken. But then, that has always been the heart of Christ. Just look at the New Testament! And the old testament, too. Mercy and compassion everywhere. Read Psalm 51 - "Have mercy on me, oh Lord", Read Psalm 74 - a nation in trouble prays for God's mercy. Read Psalm 78 - read how God always had mercy on His people! Matthew 9:36 says, "He felt great pity for the crowds that came, because their problems were so great and they didn't know where to go for help. They were like sheep without a shepherd." In Mark 8:2-3 Jesus again shows compassion and mercy: "I feel sorry for these people. They have been here with me for three days, and they have nothing left to eat." There are many, many stories in the bible of God's mercy. In fact, everything about Jesus's ministery was about mercy. Again and again he put the concerns and feeling of others above himself. Then finally, in the greatest and most merciful act of all human history, Jesus went to the cross, taking all of our mistakes upon himself and making an eternity in heaven, with Our Father, possible for all of us.

With such an example of mercy as our Lord, how can we not hunger for a closer relationship with him? If we love him, how can we not strive to be there for one another as he has been there for us? Our Lord is the very face of compassion and mercy. Let us show this same compassion and mercy to all we come in touch with, so that all will know that he is a wonderful, merciful Savior.

Maybe we can share the many different ways we've been shown mercy and compassion by our Lord. And by those in our lives.

Here is a challenge for us - "You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate." (Luke 6:36)

And a promise - "God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy."
Matthew 5:7

#7 - Justice

The prayer from the "Biblical virtues to pray for": "God, help us to love justice as You do and act justly in all we do" and the scriptures are Psalm 11:7 and Micah 6:8.

I have had a tough time with something to share with you here. I looked up justice in the dictionary, and it said "The quality of being just". So, I looked up just and it says "Fair, evenhanded, and impartial in acting or judging; adhering to high moral standards; upright; honest".

The words "impartial in judging" really stuck out for me. It is not right to judge anyone, I know that. And yet, I know it is also important to make right judgements.
I do not know why that person is acting the way they do, why he or she might be looking not as I want them to "look", or "act", or whatever. It is not for me to judge them. Along with this comes so many other sins: gossip, condemnation, worry, distrust, etc. When do I need to reach out to that one, and when do I draw back? How do I judge people? I need to seek God's wisdom so that I am slow to condemn and quick to show compassion. I need to pray for the gift of discernment. Trust God to protect me and lead me. And then I need to act in a just and fair way.

Micah 6:8 - "He has told you what HE wants, and this is all it is: to be fair and just and merciful and to walk humbly with your God".

Psalm 11:7 - "The Lord does what is right, and he loves justice, so honest people will see his face".

There's a wonderful story to illustrate this in the bible. The story of the woman caught in adultery - which in the days Jesus walked the earth was a crime and the woman was supposed to be stoned to death. They were trying to trick Jesus. But he said "anyone here who has never sinned can throw the first stone." And they began to leave one by one until they were all gone. Jesus asked the woman - "where are they? Has no one judged you guilty?" "no one, sir" she said. To which Jesus answered "I also don't judge you guilty. Go now, and sin no more". Maybe she expected Him to scold her . . . I don't know for sure. But I do know this: what she got, she never expected. She got a promise and a commission. The promise: "I also don't judge you guilty". The commission: "Go and sin no more". Jesus touched her life in a very powerful and compassionate way. He did not judge her guilty! Her life must have changed from that moment on.

And also when Jesus was dying on the cross - after being tortured and crucified, he said "forgive them Father, for they know not what they do".

Jesus, help me to show this wonderful justice and forgiveness to all the people you put in my life and in my path. Help me to act justly and walk humbly with you. I pray for that special gift of discernment. Lead me, Lord. Help me.

(Maybe we could all share our opinions or something we've learned about justice).

Let's pray for Janet's friend

Janet sent an e-mail from work that her friend's, husband, Brian needs us to pray for him. He has a very rare eye disease and there is nothing to do for it except monitor the progression. It eventually leads to blindness. She said she believes in the power of prayer, so could we please for him? So, let's do it!

Please post answers to prayers

How are Arjay and Chad doing with their college classes? Does Arjay get to graduate this year? Is Chad going to make it into Pharmacy School this year?

How is Destany doing?

We'll all keep praying.

Pray for Josi

Josi is in the hospital again. She had some kind of seizures while in P. T. She's in intensive care. Please pray for her. She needs a miracle and lots of healing! And pray for all the family, too. They have way too much to cope with. Pray for peace for their hearts and lots of energy and strength. Thanks

#6 - Love for God's word

The scripture reading is Psalm 19:10, which I will quote later. The prayer for this biblical virtue to pray is: "May we grow to find your word more precious than much pure gold and sweeter than honey from the honey comb."

The Bible is God's word. It is God's love letter to His people, His children, His bride! God's word is a word of comfort. The word of God guides us. It teaches us truth! The Bible is the blue print of the creator of humankind! We can find healing for our souls, bodies and minds there. God speaks to us through these words. The bible is the Logo or the Rayma. The logo means it is THE word. It is the study, the history, learning. The Rayma is a personal revelation from God especially for you. When reading and studying my bible, I could read the same verse several times, and each time I could see something new in it. Sometimes it truly is a personal word of comfort, guidance, love, encouragement - basically what I need for that moment! When we read our bibles or pray with our bibles, or study our bibles, it is like going on a treasure hunt. You will be surprised at the precious nuggets you will find, and the deeper you dig, the more precious the treasure! If you want to grow in the word of God, become a person with a chisel and go out and dig in the word -- look, explore, seek. Let The Word become your word, and you will grow.

I challenge you to rediscover the Bible in your own life . . . ask the Holy Spirit to lead you, teach you, and guide you through it. Sit with Jesus daily and read God's love letter to you!

Can I share a few words from God that I received from my Bible while praying for you?
These are samples of the Rayma:

Psalm 32:7 - (while praying for Linda, but meant also for all of us) - Lord, you are my shelter; from distress you will preserve me; with glad cries of freedom you will ring me round. Psalm 32:8 - I will instruct you and show you the way you should walk; I will counsel you, keeping my eye on you. Psalm 32: 10 & 11 Many are the sorrows of the wicked (Dennis?), but kindness surrounds those who trust in the Lord (Linda?). Be glad in the Lord and rejoice you just; exhalt all you upright of heart! Hebrews 10:34 - You even joined in the sufferings of those who were in prison - and joyfully assented to the confiscation of your goods, knowing you had better and more permanent possesions (her hearing on the division of their property and possesions). Hebrews 12:3 - Remember how Jesus endured the opposition of sinners - hence, do not grow despondent or abandon the struggle.

And one day Kay called me and was telling me of her pain in her wrist, her arm, and elbow and shoulder and how hard it was to do her job and the pain kept her awake. I prayed for her - and this is where I was in my bible:

Hebrews 12:12 - So strengthen your drooping hands and your weak knees. Make straight the paths you walk on, that your halting limbs may not be dislocated and healed!

And from Hebrews 10:39 as I was praying Arjay and Chad and their college tests and decisions - We are not among those who draw back (from God) and perish, but among those who have faith and live!

These are just a few of the Rayma words I received while praying. Very specific and personal, I thought. And I believe God really spoke to my prayer, and He will do the same for anyone who comes to Him. I could share and share and share about this subject, but I think this is enough to encourage all of you to try it, or keep it up!

Now here is the quoted scripture from the prayer card - it is psalm 19:10, but I want to go back to verse 7 through 11:

"The teachings of the Lord are perfect; they give new strength.
The rules of the Lord can be trusted; they make plain people wise.
The orders of the Lord are right; they make people happy.
The commands of the Lord are pure; they light up the way.
Respect for the Lord is good; it will last forever.
The judgments of the Lord are true; they are completely right.
They are worth more than gold, even the purest gold.
They are sweeter than honey, even the finest honey.
By them your servant is warned. Keeping them brings great reward."

And we find these things in God's word, the Bible.

Father, we stand in awe of your word, the bible. 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. Thank you, Father, for giving us this source of light and strength, and for giving us the opportunity to uncover the precious jewels waiting to be discovered in your holy pages.

Karen was in a car accident!

Karen and Rudy moved into their new home now. Karen had taken a few boxes over there Friday, and did a little cleaning. She decided to go back to the other house and get a few more boxes to move over. Her driveway at her new house backs right out into traffic on a main highway where the speed limit is 60MPH. She backed out and didn't see a pick up barreling right at her. It hit her dead on - on the driver's side - and totaled her car! The air bag blew up. Spun her all around. There was smoke, so she was afraid her car was going to catch on fire. She shoved on the door and got herself out. The firemen, ambulance, policemen and neighbors and passers by were all right there to help her. No one could believe she got out of that car with out the help of the Jaws of Life. No one could believe she wasn't hurt, or even dead. I believe, and so does she and several people there, that it was a miracle. God protected her for sure. They hauled her car off on a flatbed. She had her wits about her, even though she was pretty shook up and scared, to take pictures with her phone of everything. The guy in the pickup said he had a broken leg, but then she saw him running across the highway to talk to the policeman. No broken leg. She took his picture. She took pictures of the huge snowbank that blocked her view - a snowbank left by the snow plows. She took pictures of the car, the pick up, the skid marks - everything. I would never have had enough wits about me to think of that, I don't think. Good for her. She got the ticket, though, and the police said it was her fault. Please pray that she is not sued and that somehow this ticket can be erased from her record. And prayers of Thanksgiving for her life and that she is all in one piece after such a terrible accident. And that the guy in the pickup is okay, too!

At least she met her new neighbors. She made a grand entrance into her new neighborhood, I guess!

#5 - Self Control

The prayer on the Biblical Virtues card says: "Father, help us NOT to be like many others around us, but let us be alert and self-controlled in all we do".

The scripture is 1 Thessalonians chapter 5, verse 6:

(I like to go back to verse 5) "You are all people who belong to the light and to the day. We do not belong to the night or to darkness. So we should not be like other people who are sleeping, but we should be alert and have self-control." verse 8:
"We belong to the day, so we should control ourselves."

In the context of these verses Chapter 5 in my bible is titled "Be ready for the Lord's coming". It is talking about being ready no matter when it happens, and we need'nt worry about when that is. Just live each day as though it is our last. Just because everyone is doing the wrong things doesn't give us permission to do them. We need to stand our ground, and practice self-control. Stay away from sin and temptation to sin.

Michelle's post on #4 is such a great example of this. It is not the easy path to take, but it is the right path.

Linda and I watched a great movie a couple of nights ago. It has such great messages and examples of this virtue. The movie is "Bucket List". If you haven't seen it, it's a must see. Maybe you would want to watch it again, if you've already seen it.

Ask ourselves this question - If the Dr. gave me the news that I only had a few months to live, what would I do differently? How would I make sure I am ready to see Jesus? What if I saw Him coming on the clouds tomorrow? Would I be rejoicing, or would I be fearful?

My dictionary says that self-control means "The act, power, or habit of having one's faculties or energies under control of the will." I think these 3 words: act, power and habit - are the order in which self-control can become a part of our lives. We must act (DO the right thing) which is sometimes very hard to do. So then we can call upon the POWER of Jesus and the Holy Spirit to help us (Pray), and then it becomes a habit to do the right thing, and actions of our own free will!

"Now may God Himself, the God of peace, make you pure, belonging only to Him. May your whole self - spirit, soul and body - be kept safe and without fault when our Lord Jesus Christ comes. You can trust the One who calls you to do that for you. The grace of our Lord, Jesus Christ be with you". This prayer comes from Paul at the end of 1 Thessalonians, chapter 5, verses 23 through 24.

Pray for Linda

Tomorrow (Monday) at 2:00 P.M. is when Linda's divorce hearing will be happening. Please lift her in prayer.

And please keep praying about Dennis's criminal trial. It is now set for March 2nd.

Thank you!

Please pray for Arjay

Arjay is only 2 classes short of graduating with a degree in Physics. He wants to work for NASA. It's been his desire forever! He has a meeting with the dean of the department on Monday. Please pray that he can figure out a way to get the credits in these 2 classes that he needs so badly. Thank you!

#4 - Honesty and integrity

The prayer is: "May integrity and honesty be our virtue and our protection".

Integrity means honesty; a quality of being unimpaired, or sound; being undivided. (as in standing firm on your beliefs in God's Kingdom). It means respect. From the virtue of integrity comes trust.

The scripture is Psalm 25:verse 21. I like to go back a few verses to verse 12 - 18, and 20 through 21:

"Are there those who respect the Lord? He will point them in the best way.
They will enjoy a good life, and their children will inherit the land.
The Lord tells his secrets to those who respect Him.
My eyes are always looking to the Lord for help.
He will keep me from any traps.
Turn to me and have mercy on me, because I am lonely and hurting.
My troubles have grown larger; free me from my problems.
Look at my suffering and troubles, and take away all my sins.
Protect me and save me. I trust you, so do not let me be disgraced.
My hope is in you, so may integrity and honesty protect me (guard me)."

This is a teaching in itself - directly from God and David. It pays to have integrity and honesty! It's everything to be trusted and respected! We know we can believe every word God speaks to us in his word - the Bible. We can trust Him. He demands respect, and gives us respect.

Lord, help us to always keep our eyes on you. Help us to always be honest and to stand firm in our faith and beliefs. Continue to teach us, Lord. Continue to lead us on the path we should go. Thank you, Jesus!

There is a simple song we used to sing at prayer meetings, which really has a lot meaning for us today:

How great is our God. How great is His name.
How great is our God. Forever the same.
He rolled back the waters of the mighty red sea,
And He said I'll never leave you -
Put your trust in Me.

#3 - Love

Ephesians Chapter 5, verse 2 is the scripture quoted for this virtue prayer from the bible. I like to look back to verse 1 also: "Try, then, to imitate God, as children of His that He loves, and follow Christ by loving as He loved you, giving Himself up in our place as a fragrant sacrifice to God." (read also Chapter 4, verses 25-32)

The prayer asks God to grant that we may learn to LIVE a life of love, through the spirit who dwells in us.

Isn't this a powerful, wonderful prayer? What does it mean to you? What is LOVE? I'm sure the bible is full of literally hundreds of love passages. It says that GOD IS LOVE! Are we willing to go as far as God did to show His love for us? I know I could never sacrifice one of my children like God did, and that was His ONLY son! (John 3:16) I'm sure He doesn't literally expect that of us, but He does want us to surrender our hearts and souls totally to Him, and follow in His footsteps. John chapter 13 verses 34 and 35: "I give you a new commandment - love one another; just as I have loved you, you also must love one another. By this love you have for one another, everyone will know that you are my disciples."

There's a song we've sung so many times: "Oh, how I love Jesus, oh, how I love Jesus, Oh, how I love Jesus, because He first loved me"

I want my love for Jesus to be reflected in the way I show love for others - even those who may be difficult to love. If I can soften even one hard heart by merely showing I care, and show the love of Christ to them, maybe that one person will soften another's heart with love, then that one will reach out to others, and so on and so on and so on . . . maybe our cities, our nation, our world would all know the love of God, and just think of how wonderful that world would be!

Think of some creative ways to love your neighbor. Give a small gift to someone you don't think deserves it, strike up a conversation with that person looking so alone and apart from the crowd - he or she might just need a friend right now, bring a bag of groceries to the single mom down the street - she could be struggling to put food on the table this week, just smile and say hello to the next person you pass on the street, the hall, or the store - watch their face light up. There are so many ways to demonstrate the love of Christ. Some are very simple, while some may involve a little more effort, money or time. Let the Holy Spirit - who IS love - lead you. He knows just how, when and to whom His love should be expressed. Is He putting someone on your heart right now? Love them!

"And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love,
Yes they'll know we are Christians by our love."

Prayer request

Please keep Linda and her boys in your prayers this week. Dennis's jury trial is scheduled for Monday, Feb 9th. And also the divorce hearing is scheduled for the afternoon of that same day. She is praying the divorce hearing can be settled out of court. Dennis is not wanting this. His criminal trial will be very hard. Pray that justice is served. Thank you!

#2 - Growth in Grace (2 Peter 3:18)

Sharon's and Michelle's comments in the previous posting on salvation lead right into this posting on Growth in Grace from 2 peter 3:18. Go there, and I suggest you read the whole of 2Peter chapter 3.

Paul is warning us to keep close to Jesus and to God's word, and never quit learning about Him. However, there are a lot of false teachings and teachers, so be careful. He tells us to "Be careful so we will not fall from our strong faith". In this day and age it would be so easy to "fall away". There is such a thin line between truth and the false. So, we need to stay close to God's word - read it daily - ask the Holy Spirit to teach us. HE IS THE TEACHER! And God's grace is bestowed upon us so we can make it through this time. His grace is a free gift! I'll say it again - a free gift! We don't need to earn it! He gives it freely. We just need to know it's there, and we need to accept it every single day, every minute of our days. Don't have a "lazy faith".

What is the grace of God? The grace of God says you serve God because you're saved, and not in order to be saved. You're not trying to earn God's good graces, you're responding to His Love and Peace.

What is grace? It's what someone gives us out of the goodness of his heart, not out of the perfection of ours. The story of grace is the good news that says that when we come, he gives. That's what grace is.

Grace is a pleasant surprise. Grace is a kind gesture. Grace is something you did not expect. It is something you certainly could never earn. But grace is something you'd never turn down.

You know what happens when someone sees the grace of God? When someone really tastes the forgiving and liberating grace of God? Someone who tastes God's grace is the hardest worker, the most morally pure individual, and the person most willing to forgive.

Always remember that Jesus says, "My grace is deeper than your sins".

"Amazing Grace, How sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see . . . "

Father, how holy and great is your promise. You've been so good to us, but somehow, Father, we find things to complain about, even though we've been given eternal life. Renew our vision; help us to see heaven. Help us to know you even more, and to experience more of your Grace every day!

#1 - Salvation - Is. 45:8, 2 Tim. 2:10

In the reading from 2 Timothy chapter 2, verses 8-10, we read:

"This is the Good News I preach, and I am suffering because of it to the point of being bound with chains like a criminal. (These are Paul's words, you may want to go to this chapter in 2 Tim and read the whole chapter). But God's teaching is not in chains. So I patiently accept all these troubles so that those whom God has chosen can have the salvation that is in Christ Jesus. With that salvation comes glory that never ends!"

What is salvation? In the Reader's Digest Great Encyclopedia dictionary it says "The process or state of being saved; preservation from impending evil. Deliverance from sin and penalty". So, salvation means we are saved. Saved from what? Saved from the evil that is in the world! Saved from our sin and the penalty of our sin. Saved FOR the glory of God. Saved from an eternity in hell, saved for an eternity in heaven! It is VICTORY!!!

Sometimes life doesn't seem fair, does it? Have you ever wondered why good people have to hurt? Why the innocent suffer? Often it seems that those who have been most battered by life seem to understand Jesus best, and His assurance finds its way into the darkest corners of life, because regardless of our circumstances, God meets our needs. By surrendering to Him, the ultimate victory is ours.

What is unique about the kingdom of God is that you are assured of victory. You have won! You are assured that you will someday stand before the face of God and see the King of Kings. You are assured that someday you will enter a world where there will be no more pain, no more tears, no more sorrow.

If you have no faith in the future, then you have no power in the present. If you have no faith in the life beyond this life, then your present life is going to be powerless. But if you believe in the future and are assured of victory, then there should be a dance in your step and a smile on your face.

Our Father, who art in heaven
Hallow'ed be Thy name
Thy kingdom come,
Thy will be done . . . .

#31 - A heart for missions

"Lord, please help my children, my grandchildren - my family - to develop a desire to see your glory declared among the nations, your marvelous deeds among all peoples"
(Ps. 96:3)

(This is the last of these "Biblical Virtues to pray for our kids, our grandkids, our families and ourselves". Now I will publish my sharings about each of the scriptures mentioned in these prayers. Also, I will publish stories and witness to each of these prayers. I ask that each of you also share your thoughts, stories, witnessing. As you read what I publish here, you may get little stories and thoughts, and memories - please jot them down here for all of us to share with you. We all really appreciate the comments that have been published with each prayer for these 31 days. Thank you!)

HOPE I'M DOING THIS RIGHT

I am no longer sure how to post a prayer request and have it end up where it belongs. Here goes...............

I offer a prayer of thanksgiving that Tiffany is now in a facility where she can get drug/alcohol abuse treatment, along with many other life-skill training programs. She can also get medical and dental treatment and counselling. AND the programs in this facility are Bible-based. Praise God!

Please pray that she stay the course until God is able to completely transform her into a new life with Him. Thank you Jesus for all you are doing for Tiffany.

If this posts somewhere other than prayer requests, maybe you can give us a refresher course on how to post a prayer request, Lonnie. Thanks!

#30 - Gratitude

"Help my children, grandchildren - my family - to live lives that are always overflowing with thankfulness and always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Eph. 5:20, Col. 2:7)

#29 - Prayerfulness

"Grant, Lord, that my children's, my grandchildren's - my family's - lives may be marked by prayerfulness, that they may learn to pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests" (Eph. 6:18)

#28 - Self-discipline

"Father, I pray that my children, my grandchildren - family - may acquire a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair" (Prov. 1:3)

#27 - Passion for God

"Lord, please instill in my children, grandchildren - family - a soul that 'followeth hard after thee' (Ps 63:8), one that clings passionately to you."

#26 - Willingness and ability to work

"Teach my children, grandchildren - family - Lord, to value work and to work at it with all their heart, as working for the Lord, not for men" (Col. 3:23)

Jeremiah 29:11-14a and Psalm 27:7-14

I posted these scriptures on the Hanson Happenings. I was praying for Tammy this morning and they came to me. As I was printing it, I realized that it is also meant for Linda, and all of us as well. Linda can substitute Dennis's, Jim's names where I substituted Rob's name for Tamara. Please read them either on that blog, or from your bible. Respond to what they are speaking to you. Thanks. Keep praying.

#25 - Hope

"May the God of hope grant that my children, my grandchildren - my family - may overflow with hope and hopefulness by the power of the Holy Spirit" (Romans 15:13)

#24 - A servant's heart

"God, please help my children, my grandchildren - my family - to develop servants' hearts, that they may serve wholeheartedly, as if they were serving the Lord, not men". (Eph. 6:7)

#23 - Faith

"I pray that faith will find root and grow in my children's, grandchildren's - my familie's - hearts, that by faith they may gain what has been promised to them" (Luke 17:5-6, Heb 11:1-40)

#22 - Contentment

"Father, teach my children, my grandchildren - my family - the secret of being content in any and every situation, through Him who gives them strength" (Phil. 4:12-13)

#21 - Responsibility

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

#20 - Compassion

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

#19 - Humility

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

# 18 - Perseverance

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

#17 - Joy

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

# 16 - Peace-loving

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

#15 - Generosity.

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

# 14 - Kindness.

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

# 13 - Purity

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

# 12 - Courage.

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

#11 - Faithfulness.

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

#10 - biblical self-esteem

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

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

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

#8 - Mercy

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

#7 - Justice

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

#6 - "Love for God's Word"

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

#5 - Self Control

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

#4 - Honesty and integrity

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

#3 - Love

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

#2 - Growth in grace

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

Biblical virtues I pray for my kids and grandkids

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

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

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

Thankfulness

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trust God!

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

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

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

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

Precious Lord, Take My Hand

5 questions for a better life

1. Why am I here?

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

2. What would I like to learn?

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

3. What brings me joy?

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

4. What am I most afraid of?

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

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

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

pray for Josi

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

Don't be ashamed of standing up for Jesus

Read the comment I published under my last entry here.

Is God speaking to America?

Read 1 Chronicles 28:7-8

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

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

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

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