God Rocks!

I want to say how awesome God is to me!!! He is so faithful. He blesses me beyond my understanding.

God helps me in the little things. The things that seem insignificant, that is where I find Him often.

For instance, there is a song I want to do for sign choir. I could not find anyone who had it and thought I was going to have to buy it. This morning, I decided to go thru old CD's to find a fast song. I picked up a CD, started listening to it, and what did I discover? I HAD IT!! The whole time!!! I just know God had a good chuckle over my reaction to finding it. That is not the first time that has happend, mind you.

God surprises me like that all the time. Kind of like a parent who tries to surprise a child, cause it is fun to see their little faces.

God not only meets my needs like He promised, but He goes above and beyond. I know how blessed I am, and I appreciate it.

Think about the many blessings in your life. Once you start listing, you just go on and on. You think about that......

The ELF Movie

Hello. I love Christmas. Love. Love. Love. Not only is it the celebration of the birth of Christ, but it seems to be the only time of year mean people try to be nice. Sad, but true.

I love the lights, I love the music, I love singing carols about Jesus. And I love the movies and specials.

One of my friends had a special affinity for the movie Elf. I do not. I tease her about it. But, she told me one of the reasons she likes it is that no matter what happens, the main character, Buddy the Elf, is happy. He finds joy in all things. Nothing gets him down. She says that is what speaks to her. That we should all find that much joy in all circumstances, and we should find joy in even the little simple things.

So, this year, I will watch Elf with a re-newed interest and try to look at life through Buddy's eyes. You think about that......

What I heard on the radio...

I was listening to the radio in my car, when I heard a commercial:

Church is not a hotel for saints, it is a hospital for sinners.

I know, God speaks to me quite a bit thru the radio. That's ok...that's how we roll. And if you think about it, this doesn't seem very profound, until you really think about it.

If you read my post about fishbowls, you will understand how this relates. We cannot sit together holding hands, singing praises to the Lord. We are commanded to go out into the world, and save the lost. We are to find them and bring them into the church, teach them what God's word says, tell them how much He loves them....and help them go out and find more lost people. We are not to be contented to sit in our pews with each other in our happy little world. We are to go find those who need Jesus the most, and bring them in. We catch em, He cleans em. This is very true.

Casting Crowns has a new song out:


Lord I want to feel your heart
and see the world through your eyes
I want to be your hands and feet
I want to live a life that leads



ready yourselves
ready yourselves
Let us shine the light of Jesus in the darkest night
ready yourselves
ready yourselves
May the powers of darkness tremble as our praises rise
Until the whole world hears Lord we are calling out
Lifting up Your name for all to hear the sound
Like voices in the wilderness we're crying out
as the day draws near
we'll sing until the whole world hears


THIS is how we should think. Now, you think about that.....

Clearplay DVD Player

Hello Friends!!!

Ok, with Christmas coming up, those with kids need new ideas. Well, at the Christian bookstore, you can get a Clearplay DVD Player on sale for around $80. "Why do I want this?", you ask.

First, for $5 a month, you subscribe to their filter website. They provide filters for movies and make them kid friendly. With a USB port, you download movie filters from their site and put it on the Clearplay. When you insert a DVD into the player, and select "watch with filter", it cleans up the movie for you. You can choose to watch a movie without a filter, but you need a password to do this. This protects your children from watching something bad when you are not around.

The clearplay allows you to set the filters as light or extreme as you would like. They have every movie imaginable. They do not have all the TV shows...so for Andy Griffith DVD's, I need a password. I do not mind though...it is a small price to pay for clean movies.

The clearplay mutes out cuss words, deletes all sex scenes, and will delete any scenes that are the least bit inappropriate for kids.

Movies we could never watch, we now can.....we can watch The Bourne Supremacy without all the yucky stuff.

Now, for violent scenes, such as the Bourne Identity, it shows the fight scenes, but cuts out the actual killing and showing of the dead body. You can enjoy the plot of the movie, without having to subject yourself to the unnecessary gore.

I LOVE my clearplay, and consider it the best thing we own....next to our Wii.

Think about that.....

Oh, how He loves us so.....

Wednesday night at church, I sat behind a couple and their 9 month old little girl. She was a happy thing, and smiled at me each time I smiled at her. She was in her daddy's arms, and he was kissing her and loving her and whispering to her. I watched this tender scene our whole 30 minute praise and worship time.

God impressed upon my heart this: that is how HE is towards us. He puts His arms around us, He kisses us, and He whispers to us. God loves us way more than that daddy could ever love that baby....and he loved his little girl a lot.

God thinks of me as His little girl still to this day. He still wants the best for me. I cried as God spoke to my heart that night. There are days I ask God to help me feel Him. And He does. The next time you see a child with a parent, think about that......

Psalm 100

Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.
Worship the Lord with gladness;
come before Him with joyful songs.
Know that the Lord is God.
It is He who made us, and we are His.
We are His people, the sheep of His pasture.

Enter His gates with thanksgiving and
His courts with praise.
Give thanks to Him and praise His name.
For the Lord is good and His love endures forever.
His faithfulness continues through all generations.


I love this. I looked up thanks in my trusty thesaurus:to express gratitude, grateful, obliged, indebted to, appreciation, acknowledgement to, tender thanks to, bless.

Then, I looked up praise: good words, compliments, approval, acclaim, regard, respect, esteem, tribute, extol, exalt, revere, celebrate

Those are amazing words to describe how we are to approach God. When was the last time you just told Him "thank you" ? I believe that God is a happy God, otherwise it would not be the Joy of the Lord being our strength.
God is good. He loves us so much. Sit with Him today and just love Him and tell Him thanks.
Think about that......

Diamonds and Success

Ok, I got a famous quote out of a book. It says : a diamond is just a piece of coal that stuck to the job.

I love that!! How true. Most people miss opportunity because it disguises itself as work. In this instant gratification, microwave world we live in, no one wants to take time to become successful. They all want the fame and the money, but they don't want to work for it. Overnight success....that is what people crave.

Success= Einstein and Edison
Fame= Madonna

There is a distinct difference in the two. Fame may equal money, but not necessarily success. My Mama always told me if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Making $5,000 a month flipping foreclosed properties the first week...the one you see on late night TV...probably NOT true. Ha,ha,ha,ha.

I have learned as I get older, that I enjoy good honest work. Success will come when it's time, but I won't sit on my duff waiting for it. I'm going to go out and make it happen.

Think about that...

Green Bean Casserole--remade healthy

Ok, here is another tested recipe that I WILL make again. As Thanksgiving fast approaches, I am finding yummy, low sodium, lower fat things to make for my family. Please enjoy this one.


Healthy Green Bean Casserole


3 lbs green beans, trimmed and cut in half. ( I used 3 cans no salt beans)
4 large shallots (I used green onions)
1 Tbs olive oil
1 ½ course fresh bread crumbs
1 tsp fresh chopped thyme
3 cups lowfat milk
3 Tbs butter
¼ cup all purpose flour
1/8 tsp nutmeg
1/8 tsp allspice
1/ 2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

If using fresh beans, cook them. If using cans, no heating required. Put them in a large 3 quart baking dish.

In 12 inch skillet, heat oil on medium and cook onions 4 minutes. Add bread crumbs (which I seasoned with extra thyme and allspice) and cook 2 minutes until dry and golden. Transfer mix to large bowl, add thyme, salt, pepper, and sprinkle with allspice.

In microwave, heat milk on high for 4 minutes.

Meanwhile, in same skillet, melt butter on medium, and add flour. Slowly add milk, stirring constantly, and cook 2 minutes or until thickened (having consistency of heavy cream) Stir in nutmeg, salt and pepper.

Pour mixture over beans and stir until evenly coated.

Stir parmesan cheese into bread and spread bread over beans.

Bake 30 minutes or until sauce is bubbling.

(Note: I personally will add more seasoning to the milk mixture next time…maybe pepper, thyme, and more allspice.)


If you try this, drop me a line and let me know what you think. Thanks. Enjoy.

Low Sodium Cooking Website

If you have been following this blog, you know I have been researching recipes with little or no salt.

With Thanksgiving coming up quickly, I wanted to find things my Mom can enjoy and that will be healthy. I found an amazing site that has done a lot of leg work for me.

http://www.lowsodiumcooking.com/ This man was diagnosed with Congestive Heart Failure and was forced to change his life. He has a menu on the side of his site which is very easy to navigate. BUT, he has a list of recipes divided up into categories. I found a recipe for homemade stuffing that I am going to try this year.

I also found a recipe for a makeover green bean casserole that I am going to try this Sunday night. If it is good, I will post it here. (I know I still need to post the mac and cheese one).

There are easy ways to change your diet and not give up any flavor. As I continue on this journey, I will keep you updated. If any of you come across any yummy recipes, please send them to me.

Think about that.....

Things God has Said

God has been speaking to me and saying different things, depending on what is going on at the time. I listen. I have learned that God is infinitely smarter than me. :)

Earlier this week, I have seen the bumper sticker: Wag more. Bark less.

This is biblical. Love each other no matter what. Forgive each other and act as though no wrong has been committed. Keep our mouth shut. Our mouth gets us in more trouble than any other part of our bodies. Speak only good, helpful, happy things about each other. Or, if you can't say something nice don't say anything at all. That's biblical. I bet if we were to list all the things our mom's and grandma's taught us...most of them would be right outta God's Word.

My pastor, who is awesome, spoke last night on keeping our mouths shut. The power of life and death are in the tongue. You get what you say. What are you saying?

So, as funny as that sticker is, and even though the devil meant it to be a liberal animal lover mantra....I see it as biblical. :) So, devil, in your face....

Think about that.....

Preparation is the Key

One of my favorite movies of all time is Facing the Giants. (if you have not seen it, it is a MUST SEE. You will never be the same) There is a quote from there that I have up in my office. It simply says:

God will send the rain with He's ready. You need to prepare your fields to receive it.

I know this means different things to different people. But, think for a moment...what is YOUR field and what is YOUR rain? Are you believing for children? Then your body is your field and your baby is your rain. Are you waiting for a financial breakthru? Then your bank account is your field and the finances are your rain. You may just be waiting for God to help you with your life in general. Then, your mind is your field, and your faith/belief/answer is your rain.

No matter what your situation is, you will need to have faith. That doesn't change. All of us are believing God for something. All of us. A few months ago, my pastor told us to think of something that we were having a hard time giving to God, and we prayed about it and I gave it to God. Whenever the devil tried to bring it up, I reminded him and me that it was God's issue now. My hands were off. Amazingly enough, that was all it took. Just a month after that, that "thing" I gave God blossomed. I was truly in wonder. God did it!!

Later, I saw how how I had been preparing my fields and didn't even realize it. God is faithful. He loves us very much. AND he wants to bless us. He wants to send the rain....you just have to prepare your fields to receive it.

Go think about that.....

Teach your Children

Teach your children to respect authority and their elders!!! Period!

I am a substitute teacher and I am amazed at how kids treat me! Wow. I mean, wow!! We, as parents have to set the example everywhere...and we have to make sure our kids are getting the message.

When I pick my children up from school, I tell them you better NEVER treat a teacher the way that class just treated me. Shame.

And you wonder why this world is like this. The Bible predicted this in the last days. It says there will be homosexuality, kids won't respect authority, people will get easily offended....any of this sounding familiar?

Proverbs 1:7 says the "fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom". That is not fear, it means respect and honor. Respecting and honoring God is the beginning of wisdom. Let's start there.

Now, go think about that......

TACO MIX!!!!!

Here it is!!! Here is the healthy, no sodium taco seasoning.

Makes one cup.

12 tsp chili powder

10 tsp paprika

9 tsp ground cumin

6 tsp onion powder

5 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp cayenne

Mix well. Store in airtight container for up to 6 months. For two large chicken breasts, I used 3 Tbs mix with 1/2 cup water. I let the cooked, cut up chicken simmer in mix until water was gone. Obviously, I made chicken tacos, but you could use hamburger. It smelled just like the packets we used to buy.

Last night, I made homemade mac and cheese. I will post that recipe later this week. Let me know what you think when you try it.

Enjoy!

Work and Sam Goldwyn

Most of you may not have ever heard of Sam Goldwyn, but all of you have heard of MGM Studios. Sam Goldwyn was an American movie producer from 1882-1974. He was quoted as saying, "The harder I work, the luckier I get."

Now, coming off of some stupid things our US government officials have done, I am in the mood to rant. I personally don't mind helping those who need help. By that I mean, those who are trying to help themselves. I do not agree with rewarding those who just don't want to work....and there are many like that. My homeowners insurance went up 38%. Why???? Because NC lawmakers decided we all needed to help those who owned a beachhouse to pay their high homeowners insurance. They made all of us pay for it...it was spread all over the state. So, I pay $300 more for a beach house I do not have. If you cannot afford the house, SELL IT!!! (sorry, if you get offended easily, you better not continue reading.)

Why does the government think it is right to steal from the hard workers and give to the have not's? History proves, the lower the taxes and the less involvement from the government, the more people help those in need. I don't like to be forced. I tend to give less to the needy when the government is already taking so much from me.

An anonymous source said, "Some who are not paid what they are worth ought to be glad." I love this. I have met some of these people too. I know we all have.

To me, there is no excuse in this great USA, with all the opportunity here...for you not to achieve your dreams. For goodness sake, the government gives grants to poor people so they can go to college. Lots of groups will mentor small business owners for free. If you have a good business plan, you can get a small business loan and start your own. Heck, in America if you are good at a sport, you can get paid tons of money to play it for a living.

The governement has gone wrong in one key area....the saying, "Give a man a fish, feed him for a day. Teach him to fish, feed him for a lifetime." You don't give people money without job training or schooling. I believe the Democrats WANT their constituants uneducated and dependent...otherwise, they would use our tax money better. Handing poor people a check without helping them learn to change their circumstances just breeds more dependence. Why would you vote for someone who is not helping you? Why would you vote for someone who thinks you are too stupid to know the difference?

Sam Goldwyn worked hard and did well for himself. You can work hard AND smart, and do well in this great USA. Now, go think about that....

Sodium and Other Junk in our food...

Most of you know at this point my mom is recovering from triple bypass. She has inspired my family to get healthy. Now, what you think is healthy, is NOT. There, I said it.

Go look at a can of soup. Look at the sodium content and multiply that by the number of servings in the can. Yikes!! I believe we should get no more that 1200 mg sodium per day.

Here is an eye opener: Betty Crocker Suddenly Salad 1200 mg in box
Kraft Deluxe mac and cheese 3720 mg in box
Hormel Complete Turkey and Dressing 1120 mg in box
Ken's Creamy Caesar Dressing 280 mg per 2 tablespoons (2240 in 8oz bottle)
Cheez It whole grain cheese crackers 250 mg sodium for 27 crackers (by far the best deal yet)
Cheerios 190 mg per 1 cup serving
Utz Baked Cheese Balls 260 per 32 balls
Pringles original flavor 150 mg per 16 chips (really not bad)
Chicken Noodle Soup 2250 mg in can
Progresso 40% less sodium Italian Wedding soup 960mg in can

Now, I told you this to open your eyes. I have not even told you about cholesterol and fat grams. I have found that if you research online, you can find sodium free recipes for about anything....to make from scratch. I have found taco seasoning, mexican rice, and I got some fresh corn on the cob too. Convenience foods will make your body sick.

Try to look at contents and make better choices for your family. Easier is not always better. With proper planning, you can eat fresh things right out of your freezer...things that you put there!! I will discuss more as I embark on my journey to healthier eating. If this taco stuff and rice is good, I will post the recipes here.

Think about what you are putting in your mouth and your children's mouths..........

Quotes worth Pondering....

I love good quotes. LOVE THEM!! So, here are some I have come across lately. I will discuss some of them over the next few weeks.

Wag more, bark less. (bumper sticker on a earth biscuit's car)

A friend is a person who listens attentively while you say nothing. (anonymous)

Real friends are those who, when you've made a fool of yourself, don't feel you've done a permanent job.

It takes a great man to deal with catastrophe and an even greater one to prevent it. (anonymous)

A good leader takes more than his share of the blame, and a little less than his share of the credit. ( arnold glasgow)

Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power. (Abraham Lincoln)....let me say this is coming to fruition with our current Prez. Sad...

Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it. (george santayana)

Bad officials are the ones elected by good people who do not vote. (george jean nathan)..ahem, hello? that is why we have Obama. Sad again.

Wisdom is the reward you get for a lifetime of listening when you'd have preferred to talk. (Doug Larson)

Ok, I am done...there are tons and I could go on forever. Enjoy these and you think about that......

Hollywood

Ok, I don't know where to begin my thoughts today. First, I do NOT watch MTV (not since 12th grade)...and I did NOT watch the awards, but I heard all over the news about Kanye West (I don't care if I misspelled it) jumping on stage while Taylor Swift made her speech. How rude was that? Don't you know his Mama was home watching her son get drunk on national television, and making a poop of himself!! This is not new, unfortunately.

Now, this morning we heard about Patrick Swayze passing away. Sad, yes. But, do we know where he was going? Did he take the UP elevator, or the DOWN one? I have been praying for revival in Hollywood for a while now. It would only take one influential person to make a big change.

Can you imagine movies being made with no sex, no cuss words, and no drinking? Back in the olden days, there were lots of clean movies. To me, it takes much more creativity to make a movie or tv show funny and clean. Think I LOVE LUCY, DICK VAN DYKE SHOW, ANDY GRIFFITH SHOW, COSBY SHOW...I could go on. Those were monster hits.

Notice when a kids movie comes out, it is always in the top 3 at the box office. Why? Cause there are NONE. People want that. We need it.

So, join me in praying for revival in Hollywood.....think if George Lucas became a Christain. Or Will Smith....Britney Spears, Brad Pitt, Steven Spielbgerg, Ron Howard. Don't laugh.

Think about that.....

9/11

Thank you to all the soldiers who are overseas and sacrificing so much to help keep our country free. Thank you to the families left behind who share their family member so we can be free.

I'm sorry...to the ones who lost a loved one in the 9/11 attacks. Please know that we shared your pain that day. We cried with you, and still cry when we think about it. We are teaching our children about the truth of that day.

Freedom is never free. Remember that....

How the Lost Get Found

I heard a song on the radio yesterday and the chorus said this:


Don't let your lights go down
Don't let your fire go out
Cause somewhere, somebody needs a reason to believe
Why don't you rise up now?
Don't be afraid to stand out
That's how the lost get found

Now, I know as Christians we are watched....by both other Christians and non-christians. I have had people tell me that they had been watching me, and my example was a testimony to them. I had no idea I was being scrutinized. God was using me and I did not know it.

So, first, if you are a road rage driver, take the fish off your car. DO NOT mess up Jesus' example. Second, pray and have God tell you things you may be doing that are hindering others from coming to Him. Like, drinking wine or beer. In and of itself, this is fine...but if it makes a non-Christian think you are full of it, then God can't use you to minister to them. If you play the lottery, and non-christians are watching you...what does that tell them? If you honestly ask God, He will honestly tell you.

You are being either a wonderful example or a horrible warning. Think about it. Which one are you? Are you full of love and kindness, or do you think everyone in the world but you is stupid, and therefore you have a bad attitude?

I met a lady who was not full of joy or kindness, and when I f ound out she knew the Lord, I had to hide my shock. Would the people at your work be surprised to know you were a Christian? How about your neighbors? Your family? We draw others to Jesus cause we are different. No one wants what the world has, they want what WE have. Shine your Light. You can make a difference in a life, and you may not even know about it until Heaven.

Our church sign language choir is performing at the Clayton Harvest Festival on Sept 19. We are going out on the mission field and minister to some people who may not have ever set foot in a church...or who may not know anything about Jesus' love. I pray God uses us to hold their attention long enough to hear His message...and hopefully spark something in them that gets them to a local church. God can use ANYTHING to draw people to Him...even YOU.
Think about that.....

Mortality

First, let me say Condolances to the Baysden family. Their 8 year old daughter passed away yesterday from an aggressive form of cancer. She is with Jesus now, in His arms and no longer in pain.

A friend of mine, just this morning, asked me what I would be willing to endure joyfully for God? Would I joyfully let myself be beaten and hanged, singing hymns the whole time and praising God? Would you watch your child be beaten and hanged, while praising God? None of us know exactly how we would react because we have never had to in the USA. I pray we never will. Think about right now, what would you be willing to do?

If the leaders of the country said we could not purchase anything (gas, food, electricity, water) unless we rejected Christ, could you? Could you watch your kids starve?

I know I am being very exagerrated. I am just trying to get you to think. Another friend of mine said the reason our country is in the state it is in now is because Christians have sat back and done NOTHING for so long. I am NOT a democrat or a socialist...I support conservative views, not handouts. Bad things happen when good people do nothing.

I have said to my hubby many times, to get people out to vote and get them excited, Congress should threaten to take away the right for women to vote. No one cares about their freedoms until you try to take them away. Freedom is NEVER free.

You think about that.......

Life is Precious

Hello!
I know it has been a while, but let me say, life is precious. None of us know how many days we have left. None of us know how many days our family members have left. When is the last time you said "I love you" to someone close to you? When is the last time you said it to your mom, dad, brother, sister, best friend, spouse, or child?

The last time you got into an argument with someone close to you, was it over something important or something petty? Did you apologize or are you still holding a childish grudge "because you didn't start it, so you should not have to apologize first" ?

My mom had unexpected triple bypass surgery day before yesterday. She went to the doctor with what she thought was an anxiety attack. Turns out, she had a mild heart attack. In less than three days, she was having open heart surgery. Talk about clearing your mind!! Suddenly, the important things seem very important and the small things seem very petty.

Think about the last thing you said to anyone. Is that the last thing you would want them to hear from you? Let's stop being petty, and grow up. Let's see life for what it is...a gift from God. Now, go think about that.....

Judgment

First, let me say be careful of the words that come out of your mouth. You can be chatting on the phone with a family member in innocent conversation, when it takes a turn. Then before you know it, you have gossiped and judged someone else....it was wrong and you need to repent. (That was me yesterday. So sorry Lord)

I was reading a book, and the man could not understand why something bad happened to one of his children and he blamed God. (we all have done that at one time or another) This man was being dealt with about why it was NOT God's fault even though God was being blamed. This man was clearly very angry at God because he had no one else to blame. So, the man was given a choice to send three of his children to Heaven and two of them to Hell. The man was horrified! He could not make such a choice. He asked if he could go instead of them. It was then that the man truly understood God's love for him....that is what God did. (think on that for a moment)


In the book, the man said how can God love his daughter and still let her go thru such a horrible thing?
"He doesn't stop a lot of things that cause Him pain. Your world is severly broken. You demanded your independence, and now you are angry with the One who loved you enough to give it to you. Nothing is as it should be, as God desires it to be, and as it will be one day. Right now your world is lost in darkness and chaos, and horrible things happen to those He is especially fond of."

"This was no plan of God's. God has never needed evil to accomplish His good purposes. It is you humans who have embraced evil and God has responded with goodness. What happened to [your daughter] was the work of evil and no one in your world is immune from it."


These are good quotes. No matter what, God loves us. More than we could ever imagine. He loves us when we are good, when we are bad, and when we need a good spanking. God always hugs us and says it's ok, just don't do it again. He tells us He loves us everyday. Did you see flowers today? Did you see fluffy clouds and sunshine? Did you see birds flying overhead? God tells you He loves us everyday.

Think about all of that.....

Are we fishers of men????

I saw one of my friends on Facebook say as churches we should be fishers of men, not keepers of the aquarium. Stop and think about what that means. It is truly profound and I thank that friend for sharing it.

Not too many weeks ago, my pastor spoke about if we are to go and get the unchurched and bring them in...are we ready for what that means. He went on to say that means the homosexual, the pimp, the child molester, the prostitute.......how will we handle that? Can we love and teach without judging? Do we realize that those people will not change overnight? Well, he made a valid point. Most churches are happy with the nice congretation they have. They don't want new people because that would make them have to actually DO what the Bible says to do, that is love. We like our little comfort zone and we like the status quo. Beware, that turns us into lukewarm Christians, and you know what God does with those...the vomits them out of His mouth.

Status quo is being a keeper of the church aquarium. God likes to stretch us. God wants us to learn and love more. He can't steer a parked car. Is your church parked, or are they moving forward listening to what God wants to do? My church is definitely moving forward. God has placed many people with a vision of what our church could do and could be. Fortunately, we have a pastor with that same vision. My church is NOT a keeper of the aquarium. We know how to fish...we are in the south for Pete's sake. Ha,ha,ha.

Now, that is not to say that there are some peeps in my church that try to keep their own little aquarium. Fortunately, most of us are on the move. Jesus said we should be fishers of men. Go into all the world and preach the good news of the gospel. We catch em, He cleans em. ( I love that.)

Now, are you a fisherman or do you keep an aquarium?? You think about that.....

Success

I love good quotes. One of my faves is by Vince Lombardi......The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary.

Ha, that is sooo true. Just ask any millionaire. Most business tycoons spent many countless hours working hard to find success. You have to try and find what works...usually through some failures. But, when you find what works and you kick it up a notch. That is the best!!!

Think of someone who is successful at something: Tiger Woods, Warren Buffett, Donald Trump, Ron Howard, or George Lucas (sorry, but I love Star Wars).....all of them put sweat and long hours into what they did. For sports, you have to practice many hours, for business the same thing. George Lucas went through several companies before he got someone to be interested in his work.

No one gets something for nothing. Well, they should not anyway. I know the culture in America today is moving towards entitlement mentality. Everyone has their hand out for the government to take care of them. Not me. I am smart and capable, and God will help me do whatever He wants me to do. I do not need a handout.
I wish more people in this country had pride in themselves and their abilities....imagine how awesome we would be if those on walfare actually tried to get off of it and the government tried to help them instead of keeping them dependant.

Think about that........

Out of the Office

We have decided that we are going to have our computer fixed versus buying a new one. So, later today, this one will be dismantled.

I say this to tell you that I will be offline for the rest of the week. Not sure when we will get this thing back, but at least Friday. I will be back on Monday. Enjoy your week.

Try not to miss me too much.

Confusion and Delay

Good Morning!
I have been without a computer for 5 days. I did fine and did not go through withdrawals, although I did learn a few things. I realized that I often email instead of calling people when I have a question.
I also saw when I finally did get back online that I had TONS of stuff in my inbox. Others email more than I do. It has replaced the phone call in so many instances. Part of that reason is we can email at 3am if we want to, and the recipient can respond whenever it is convenient. That part is good. The down side is we often go weeks without speaking to our good friends live.

I love technology. I do not Tweet, and I use Facebook sparingly. I am not addicted to either. (I do notice some people spend way too much time on Facebook wasting time on Quizzes and sending fake "gifts" all day. To those of you, I say, get off and go do something productive. LOL

Anyway, I am glad to be back. Remember to say a prayer for our soldiers overseas, and say a special Happy Birthday in August to mine.

Thomas Paine and the War

What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly.





Thomas Paine said this. He lived from 1787 to 1809 and he wrote Common Sense, a pamphlet advocating colonial America's independence from Great Britian. He was against organized religion, and it got him kicked out of America. Only by presidential invitation did he come back here. But that is not why I am discussing him. He wrote this deep, profound, and timeless quote. Let me tell you what is says to me...



Think of our children. Most kids today are given anything and everything they want. They have cell phones at 8, PSP's (which are at least $175.00), iPods, X-box, and a computer. Most kids have a tv in their rooms with cable access (what?) and a DVD player.
How many of us make our kids earn what they get? It's no wonder they are bored with one thing in a week, and want something more. They don't appreciate it because they never had to work for it. That goes from adults too. This country is very rich....even our poor are richer than in most countries.

Now, think of our college age generation. They protest government, and support liberal programs because life should be fair(gag). News flash, ladies and gentlemen, life is NOT fair. Never has been. Our younger people disagree with war, and that is fine. But, like it or not, freedom is not free. The only reason you have the freedom to protest war is because someone came before you and fought for that right. Wake up and smell the venti caramel lattes!
The soldiers over in Iraq, Iran, and Afghanistan understand. I promise you they appreciate every ounce of freedom most of us take for granted each day. Have you all forgotten about the terrorist attacks in 2001? America is not immune.
You all need to thank a soldier today. WE ARE THE LAND OF THE FREE BECAUSE OF THE BRAVE....
think about that.

Child Evangelism Fellowship

Today was the 2009 CEF Spectacular. It is a Christian event sponsored by local businesses in the area, and staffed by volunteers from many different churches and other places. It is totally FREE.

• popcorn
• drinks
• snow cones
• games with prizes
• inflatables galore
• magic show/entertainment

Everything was free!! There were booths that shared the Gospel, and the entertainment was all to share God's love. I have been to several of these events, and this was the first one in the Jim Graham Building at the Fairgrounds.

It was very crowded. I don't like lines myself, but I stood in many for my children. We got popcorn, snow cones, and drinks. They jumped in some of the inflatables, and saw part of the magic show. No one in the whole place gets paid. They are all volunteers. What a great outreach to the community!

I did wish the magician was more exciting. I found it boring. (I am not a kid, even though some who know me would beg to differ) There was one lady who did sign language to songs. She did one song at a time in between magic show. I found her the most interesting, and not because I have a sign choir. She chose current songs that spoke of God's love, and performed them with enthusiasm. I think if the starters of this event had put the word out that they needed performers...they would have had many to choose from, and it would not have been so redundant.

All in all, my children had a wonderful time, and I want to say THANK YOU to the people who put on this CEF event. Thank you to the sponsors and volunteers too.

Look around....

In John 4:35, Jesus says to look around the harvest is ripe. That is the motto per se, of our sign choir. Our goal is not to go into all corners of the earth to tell the world about Jesus. Our goal is to share His love in our community. You don't have to go far to find unsaved people who are hurting and need Jesus.

I know I am not perfect. I know God tells me every day things He wants me to work on. I am the last one to throw a stone at anyone else. I know I come across confident and put together....and I am, but I know the things God wants to perfect in me. (Why am I confessing this?) Because God uses imperfect people to reach the lost. Perfect people cannot relate to others simply because most people who need God are far from perfect. So, the more messed up you are, the more God can use you. (ha,ha, but yes) Out of the the darkest night, comes the brightest light. If you look through the Bible, God used some of the biggest sinners to do some of His best work: David, Moses, Paul. (look up their history....it will give you hope and take away all your excuses)
Think of all the mistakes you have made in your life, what you have learned from them, and try to think how God can use that to help others.

So, now, look around at those in your local area....the harvest is ripe. Think about that.....

Christmas in July

Tomorrow is July, 25, the halfway mark to Christmas. Hence, Christmas in July. I have decided to make this an unofficial holiday in my house. I played Christmas music today while I took my kiddos to school, and we sang Joy to the World. They loved it. One of my new faves is by Casting Crowns:

Oh little town of Bethlehem, Looks like another silent night

Above your deep and dreamless sleep, A giant star lights up the sky

And while you're lying in the dark, There shines an everlasting light

For the King has left His throne, And is sleeping in a manger tonight, tonight

Oh Bethlehem, what you have missed while you were sleeping

For God became a man, And stepped into your world today

Oh Bethlehem, you will go down in history, As a city with no room for its King

While you were sleeping, While you were sleeping

United States of America, Looks like another silent night

As we're sung to sleep by philosophies, That save the trees and kill the children

And while we're lying in the dark, There's a shout heard 'cross the eastern sky

For the Bridegroom has returned, And has carried His bride away in the night

America, what will we miss while we are sleeping?

Will Jesus come again, And leave us slumbering where we lay?

America, will we go down in history, As a nation with no room for its King?

Will we be sleeping, Will we be sleeping?

I love this song! It speaks of so many things, it makes my head swim in a good way. I love the line that says we are sung to sleep by philosophies that save the trees but kill the children. Our nation is drifting away from God. Quickly, too. We need to rise up as Christians and pray harder for our nation. When Jesus comes back to get us, there will be too many people left here. Too many who think they are so smart, and think there is no God. Well, guess what? There IS an eternity, whether you believe it or not. I shudder to think of all the "good" people who think they will get into Heaven, who will not. A big surprise is coming to Hollywood too. They think if they give to charities and adopt children from Africa, and sing a song about world peace, that they are ok. Sorry, that is NOT what the Bible says. I have been praying for revival in Hollywood. It would only take one big star to change it all. Personally, I don't care who God chooses. So, I pray.

We need to get serious about loving people, and winning souls to Christ. So, think. What have you done lately to help God's cause to win people over to Him???

The Big Bang Theory

Have you ever heard of Stephen Hawking? He is a theoretical physicist and applied mathmetician at Cambridge University in Oxford, England. He was born in 1942(on Elvis' birthday, by the way) and plans to retire sometime in 2009. He has written several books, all about science. When it comes to quantum gravity and all things that are hard to understand, God gave him a wonderful mind. He has discovered all kinds of things regarding space as well. Right now, he is a quadripligic, dying of ALS. Why am I writing all this, you ask?

I read a book he wrote, called "The Theory of Everything". It is a set of speeches regarding black holes, quantum gravity, and cosmology. In his chapters on the big bang, he describes in very much detail, how he thinks it happened. It is way over my head. What I did understand is how delicate a procedure it was. The universe had to be a specific temperature for it to happen. So many things had to be just perfect for our universe to form as it did, so that it could sustain life. Hawking even made a comment one time that it pointed to a Creator, not chaos, to occur. As I read, I thought of several things:
*It takes a lot more faith to believe in the big bang, than a master Creator
*Only God could have made a universe to precisely and perfectly
*I won't rule out that God could have used a big bang to make the Earth (the precision of the facts Hawking presented were astounding) (who am I to limit how God may choose to do something?)
*The more I hear about science and its specifics, the more I don't see how scientists can deny God's existence.

In his book, Mr. Hawking comments that he does not believe in a God...well, he isn't sure if he does or not. He seems to be agnostice. Sadly, I think I will begin praying for his salvation....he is at the end of his life, and I don't want him to end up in Hell with Carl Sagan. Join me in prayer.

Think about that...

I am tired of racism.

I am so very tired of racism. I hear people complaining on the news and radio about when will it ever end. I'll tell you....when people quit using it and bringing it up. Racism will end when we stop looking at someone's outward appearance and start looking at their heart and motives instead. I am not blind or naive. I did not fall off the turnip truck yesterday and I was raised in the south.
When I was young, I used to think when all the old racist people finally died, racism would go with them. THAT was naive. I had no idea people were teaching it to their kids and trying desperately to keep it alive. I had no idea that 25 years later, race would still be used as an excuse as to why someone did not do well in life.
We have a president who, like it or not, got where he is today by hard work. No, I am NOT an Obama fan, but I give credit where it is due. He did not have government handouts. He worked hard, got a degree, and made something of his life. He did not wallow in his circumstances and whine that life is not fair. Newsflash people: life is NOT fair. Get over it. Do something about it. Quit sniveling and go out and show 'em that you CAN do it and no one is going to stop you!!

The bible says:
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
Galatians 3:28

where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave nor free, but Christ is all and in all.
Colossians 3:11
This doesn't sound like God is racist to me. He does not look at our outward appearance. He loves us all the same.

For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more.
Luke 12:48

The Lord wants us to see others the way He sees them: with love. God does not believe in handouts. He wants us to love one another, to help one another, and to encourage one another.

Think about that...

Control is an Illusion

Control: to exercise influence over, to suggest or dictate the behavior of

: influence or authority over

: restraint or ability to control one's emotions

Sorry folks, but control over anything but your own actions is an illusion. The ONLY thing you can control is what you think, say and do. Period.

You cannot control your Mom, you cannot control your children, you cannot control your boss at work, and you cannot control the driver on the highway. You can control if you eat too much or exercise, or if you pray or read your Bible.

The bible says one of the fruits of the Spirit is self-control. Hence, my point. Self.

Psalm 19:14 says," May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing to you God."

Are you thinking pure thoughts? Happy, pleasant thoughts? Are you speaking life and love to others?

Think about that......

What if God said this to you...

I was minding my own business, driving home from Fuquay, when I passed a church with a sign. Now, I have passed this church many, many times before and there is always a witty saying on their sign. Today, it was not witty. It was strong.

What if God said this to you: Do not confuse motion with progress.

Heavy. Deep. Serious. In this day and age where technology allows us to seperate ourselves from each other, and we can "talk" with our friends without ever hearing their voice for days on end....God whispered this to me. Most of us would say our lives are busy. But, busy with what? Work? Night school? Church things? Kid sports? What? If you listed out all the things you do that keep you busy, how many of them teach others about Jesus or show His love to someone? How many keep you away from God or away from your family?

Think about that...

Where to begin????

God has said a lot to me yesterday. A LOT! I cannot stress that enough! I will open up and admit I am not the best parent in the world. I had a fight with my son yesterday morning. After taking both my children to school yesterday, I started to pray about what to do as a mom. I looked for verses in Proverbs to pray over my son. I was still angry about the whole thing.

Well, God waits patiently for you to ask for His help. He does not shove it at you. I read Proverbs 14:1. It says, " The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down." Needless to say, I began to cry. God pierced my heart with His love coming from this verse. Funny how every time I think someone else needs to change, God shows me how I need to change first.

I set out to find all the verses I could to pray over my children. Then, I found ones to pray over my husband and marriage. God showed me I was not doing ALL I could do. I was not building my house properly. My frustration was actually tearing my house down....and I was indeed, using my own hands to demolish it.

I am still going to search more verses to add to pray over my children and hubby.(I thought of one this morning on the way to school). Someone told me once a long time ago, that everytime you point a finger at someone else, there are three pointing back at you.

Think about that.......

Book Review Time!!!

I am sitting at my desk, drinking my cinnamon coffee (second cup) and thinking about the terrific book I finished reading. Here is my review:

Deception by Randy Alcorn

Homicide detective, Ollie Chandler has seen and done it all. When a professor is murdered, Ollie follows the clues that lead him to his own department. The murderer could be any of his colleagues, even himself.

Haunted by the death of his wife and having no relationship with either of his daughters, Ollie struggles with why God lets evil happen. While Ollie is drawn into corruption and political tensions that threaten to destroy him, he vows to follow the truth and prove Ollie's First Law: "Things are often not what they appear."

This novel was gripping from page one. Ollie Chandler will go down in history as one of the most unique characters ever created! He says out loud what most of us think. His tainted view of the world through crime, has tainted his view of God. Two of his friends try to show Ollie that God loves him. They tell him to take a detectives look at the facts about Jesus and draw his own conclusions. By the end of the book, Ollie sees God's hand in his life, and decides he does need to check out the True facts.

I loved this book. I laughed out loud every few pages. Every time I thought I had it all figured out, Ollie would discover a new clue that would take me in a totally different direction. I never saw the end coming. What a great plot twist! Kudos, Mr. Alcorn. This is one author I would like to meet and find how Ollie Chandler was created.

If you love a good mystery, you will love Deception. Let me know what you think if you read it.

Enjoy!!

Count Your Blessings

I`m casting my cares aside
I`m leaving my past behind
I`m setting my heart and mind on You, Jesus
I`m reaching my hand to Yours
Believing there`s so much more
Knowing that all You have in store for me is good
Is good

Today is the day
You have made
I will rejoice and be glad in it
Today is the day
You have made
I will rejoice and be glad in it
And I won`t worry about tomorrow
I`m trusting in what You say
Today is the day
(song by Lincoln Brewster)

Ok, today is cool and kind of gloomy with rain in the forecast. Are you still thanking God?
The bible says if we (His created people) don't praise Him, the rocks and trees will cry out. Can you imagine standing on the earth and listening to rocks and trees calling out praise to the Lord? Thankfully, they don't have to. I praise Him. I thank Him. I love Him. I am joyful in the many blessings He has given me...health, family, friends, work, food, clothes, car....and the list goes on forever.

There is a song from an old movie...Singing in the Rain. It is called Count Your Blessings. It speaks of counting your blessings instead of sheep when you can't sleep. When is the last time you counted your blessings?

Think about that...

Give Your Worries to God

About a month ago, my pastor spoke on giving your worries to God. That God cannot do anything without faith, and if we still have hold of our worries, God's hands are tied. At the end of the service, he had us all pray together. We each told God about something we were worrying about, and we let it go.

I have a ministry at my church. It is a small, but very dedicated group. God uses us to minister to our own church as well as other churches where we perform. I told God I was worried that our group was not growing like I thought it should. Then again, who am I to presume how quickly God wanted it to grow? I gave this thought over to God and never thought about it again. It was now God's problem, not mine.

As soon as I took MY hands off of it, within two months I had members of our group tell me there were new people interested. I was enlightened. God reminded me of my prayer and how I was obedient to Him. Once I obeyed, God could "do His thang". Boy, did He.

At our informationl meeting for new people, our group went from 4 to 9!! We more than doubled. Sometimes God needs us to just step out of the way.

Do you have a worry that you are holding on to? Try giving it to God and NOT thinking about it again. Maybe He is waiting for you to let go.

Think about that....

Independance Day

We all know why we have 4th of July, right? We celebrate our independance as our own country, and that we are no longer controlled by England. (I won't say who I think is controlling our country now...another time)

Thankfully, our founding fathers had vision and courage. I believe these are things severely lacking in our government today. (sorry, not going down that road)

As I was watching fireworks this weekend, my mind wondered to our soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan. My family has been adopting soldiers for three years now. We apply for one, write letters and send care packages until they go home, then we apply for another one. We pray for that soldier, and try to be encouraging to them.

I know these men and women risk their lives everyday. Personally, I don't care if you agree with the war or not. As an American, you are required to support the people over there defending our freedoms. Regardless of why you THINK they are there, the reason is we were attacked on our own land. We lost thousands of people in Pennsylvania, DC, and New York. We are not just going to stand by and accept it.

There are many soldiers who could use some love and moral support. If you are interested in adopting one soldier, several, or a whole platoon, go to adoptaplatoon.org. The soldiers over there appreciate anything you do. They love letters and packages. As my new soldier told me, "It means a lot to know people still care about us soldiers." Now, how sad it that? They have to wonder if we still care? Shame on the people who make these men and women feel this way!!

Think about that...

Make Up Your Mind

So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.
Rev 3:16

Ok, God wants us to be for Him or not. No sitting on the fence. Do you notice yourself being one way with one set of friends, and another way with different friends? Then you are lukewarm. Not a good place to be.

Either you are a Christian or you aren't. You can't cuss and swear and drink with work people, and then be holy and reverent at church. Make up your mind. You can't have a fish on your car and then drive too fast, cutting people off, and flipping them the bird. If you do, take the fish off. You are ruining my reputation!!

If you have a Facebook page, what message are you sending? I see people I know with flair that have Jesus on one line, and cuss words and ugly stuff on the next. Shame on you. Make up your mind!

Now, mistakes are one thing. We all mess up and have to ask God (and sometimes other people) to forgive us so we can start over. But, God can't use you if you are on the fence.


This might hurt, it's not safe
But I know that I've gotta make a change
I don't care if I break,
At least I'll be feeling something
'Cause just okay is not enough
Help me fight through the nothingness of life

I don't wanna go through the motions
I don't wanna go one more day
without Your all consuming passion inside of me
I don't wanna spend my whole life asking,
"What if I had given everything,instead of going through the motions?"

No regrets, not this timeI
'm gonna let my heart defeat my mind
Let Your love make me whole
I think I'm finally feeling something
'Cause just okay is not enough
Help me fight through the nothingness of this life'

Cause I don't wanna go through the motions
I don't wanna go one more day
without Your all consuming passion inside of me
I don't wanna spend my whole life asking,
"What if I had given everything,instead of going through the motions?"
(song by Matthew West)

Think about that....

Hannah Montana

And my soul shall be joyful in the LORD;It shall rejoice in His salvation
Psalm 35:9

Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Luke 15:10

These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. John 15:11

And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.
Acts 13:52

for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
Romans 14:17



Ok, I could go on for days with all the scripture that talks about joy. The bottom line is that joy does not come from money, things, or fame. This is what Miley Cyrus learned in her new movie called Hannah Montana: the Movie.



I took my 6 year old daughter to see this movie last night. We both loved it. But as Miley's character learned, happiness comes from things in life that are not things. Now, this movie is not about Jesus. No. But, it does have morals and values. There was no sex. No ugly words. No gyrating of lower body parts. It was clean and funny.



The plot of the movie was that Miley/Hannah had gotten caught up in the "wordly" side of her fame and it was changing her on the inside. Her dad took her "home" to Tennessee where she could reconnect to her family and her roots. She discovered there what joy really meant...and she realized money and fame really was an illusion.



A wise man once told me, "If you are not happy before the money, you won't be happy with the money." It is true. Think about all the lottery winners who, in three years, are right back where they started. Now, it may have to do with poverty mentality. (that is another story another time) But, buying things will not bring joy to you. Buying things will only clutter up your house. At the end of the day, things will be the same. (think of Michael Jackson)(sad)



God wants us to get joy from Him. From His word and seeking His face. And from the blessings He gives us...which are usually not things. Have you counted your blessings lately and thanked Him for them? Why not?



Think about that.

Take Me Out to the Ballgame

"God will send the rain when He's ready. You need to prepare your fields to receive it."
---line from Facing the Giants

Ok, my son had an All-Star Little League- 8 and under Tournament this weekend. Boy, what a lesson it taught all of us.

Saturday, the two teams we played were bigger and better. We found out later they played kid pitch in the regular season, which means they were already a level above where our team played. They were all 8 and under, so technically they could come down to coach pitch and play. Our team was outplayed because they got discouraged. These other teams would have probably beaten the parents if we had played them. :)
As parents, we have to set the example of fair play and good sportsmanship. I saw some parents out there that did not do this. This made me sad.

Sunday, the teams were evenly matched. The teams we played were not a level ahead. Those were terrific games. Both teams scored runs, and fielded plays. As a parent, I loved it. I got to cheer my team and laugh, and generally have fun. There were still parents who took it too seriously, but I guess that is life. We tied the first game and lost in overtime. The last game we played we tied, and went into overtime and won by 2 runs. After feeling like our little guys had been kicked around all weekend, it was such a sweet victory. I knew our team had played by the rules, worked hard, and not given up. We were so happy.

On the way to the car in the parking lot, my son informed me that one of the coaches suggested they pray. So, my son and some other boys sat on the bench in the dugout and prayed. That is why we won the game!!! Had I ever thought about praying for a baseball game? No. But the kids did. I told him it was just like Facing the Giants. They used their faith to help them overcome great obstacles. God rewarded them.

We have much to learn as grown ups. Think about that.

Michael Jackson

Ok, by now the whole world knows that the King of Pop has passed away. Do you know where he passed on to? If we looked at the fruit on the tree, I would have to say not to Heaven.

In the Gospels, Jesus had a rich young man come to him and ask how to have eternal life. Jesus told him to keep this commandments. The man asked which ones.

Jesus replied "If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. (Matt 19:21-22) Then Jesus made an interesting statement to his disciples.

Matthew 19: 23-30

Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. 24 And again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” 25 When His disciples heard it, they were greatly astonished, saying, “Who then can be saved?” 26 But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” 27 Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have left all and followed You. Therefore what shall we have?” 28 So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the regeneration, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29 And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My name’s sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life. 30 But many who are first will be last, and the last first.

Did Jesus mean that only poor people can be saved? No. Whether He literally wanted the man to sell all his things or not, this was a heart issue. When we have nothing, we feel the need for God just to function and get our daily needs met. When we have almost as much money as God, we think we can get what we want ourselves, and we act as if we don't need God.

God wants all of our lives. He wants us to be willing to surrender everything to Him, to say Lord, here is my life...what should I do with it?

Have you surrendered to God? If not, why? What part of your life are you holding onto? Do you think you know better than God what to do with your life? That's funny when you think about it, but a lot of people are just afraid God wants to send them to a third world country.

God will change your heart to line up with His heart. You will want His will and His purpose to come to pass in your life. I pray none of you are satisfied until you fully surrender.

(I Surrender All by Clay Crosse)

If the source of my ambition is the treasure I obtain

If I measure my successes on a scale of earthly gain

If the focus of my vision is the status I attain

My accomplishments are worthless and my efforts are in vain

So I lay aside these trophies to pursue a higher crown

And should You choose somehow to use the life I willingly laydown

I surrender all the triumph for it's only by Your grace

I relinquish all the glory, I surrender all the praise

I surrender all my silent hopes and dreams

Though the price to follow costs me everything

I surrender all my human soul desires

If sacrifice requiresThat all my kingdoms fall

I surrender all

Now, you think about that.

Theory of Relativity

Yes, I am actually going to talk about Einstein this morning.
E=MC(2)..it is supposed to be squared, but my keyboard doesn't have that.
Energy=mass (x) velocity of light, squared. Easy enough, right?

There are two types of energy...potential energy is an energy of position. Like if you were on top of a big hill on a roller coaster. You have the potential to go very fast if you go down the hill.

The other type of energy is kinetic. It is an energy of motion. When you go down the roller coaster hill, you are using kinetic energy because you are moving. That is why you will eventually slow down unless you go up a small hill and produce more kinetic energy.

Ok, you are wondering how this relates to your life, right? So did I...but I think of potential energy as the way God sees us and our lives. He can see the end from the beginning, kind of like the author of a book. You have to know the end so you can get your characters to do what needs to be done to get them to that place.

Well, God has a Purpose for our lives, and He guides us and directs us in that direction. Whether or not we obey and listen is up to us. God sees our potential. He knows how He made us and what special gifts He gave each of us. He knows what we can do.

I think of kinetic energy as what happens when we finally obey God and do what He asks us to do. No matter how small it is, you get a feeling of peace and joy when you obey God. That prompts us to want to obey God more. We see each time, that we can trust Him and should trust Him. God's peace is like a high I can't get anywhere else....even Starbucks.(sorry Ashley)

Once I have felt that, it makes me want more. It pushes me to do more. I begin to "move" in the direction God wants me to move. As long as I am doing God's Will in my life, my kinetic energy is ongoing. It never runs out.

In youth group, one of my friends used to say that it was as if God was standing on a mountain top and we are at the bottom. He can see farther than we can down the road and He knows what is coming...so we need to follow His directions to avoid the pitfalls He can see up ahead.

So, what kind of potential energy has God given you? Are you moving and using any kinetic energy? Why not?

Think about that.

Book Reviews

Ok, for those who don't know me very well, I absolutely LOVE to read. All types of genres. So, I just chose a couple to tell you about. I have a romance for the mushy ones of you, and an adventure for those willing to take a chance.


Just Beyond the Clouds by Karen Kingsbury

Ok, I am not a romance novel person, but this novel captured my attention right from the start. This is the second in the Cody Gunner series. In Just Beyond the Clouds, Cody Gunner is still hurting after the death of his wife. Now his brother, Carl Joseph, who has Down ’s syndrome is trying to become independent. As Cody fights this change with his brother, the teacher of Carl Joseph, Elle, fights harder for his independence. The two are at odds until they both realize the connection they share. As Cody and Elle battle it out, Cody realizes this is the one woman who can teach him to love again, and see the hope Just Beyond the Clouds.

I cried, laughed, and found myself looking for a reason to sit down and read. If you like Nicolas Sparks type books; Karen Kingsbury is the Christian version of Nicolas Sparks. This book will not disappoint the romance reader.



Babylon Rising by Tim LaHaye and Greg Dinallo

This is the first in an installment of books by the creator of the Left Behind series. This series focuses on Bible prophecies that are not covered in the Left Behind books. Michael Murphy is a Biblical archaeologist teaching at a college in North Carolina. As a secret benefactor leads him to amazing Biblical finds, the danger increases—for Michael Murphy as well as those around him. Murphy seems to always end up fighting for his life. It is the age old good vs. evil, and in this case, God vs. Satan. Michael Murphy shows us that courage and truth will triumph through any test we are given in our lives.

This book is the equivalent of a Christian Indiana Jones. I read through this book in two days and ran to the library for the next one in the series. If you like action, this is THE book for you!!


If you have a book you would like me to review, please let me know. I will be doing these every few weeks. Now, go get a book and read!!! (Just don't forget to read your Bible.)

Control Is An Illusion

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace,
longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.
Galatians 5:22

But also for this very reason, giving all diligence,
add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge,
to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance,
to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly
kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.
2 Peter 1:5-7

Apparantly, self-control is the only kind the Bible says we have or can have. So, who is in control of the rest of our lives...well, that is our decision. We can live according to God's Word and give Him control or we can disregard all He tells us and give Satan the reigns.

One way or the other, your life will be controlled by a spiritual force.

Psalm 103:19-21 (New King James Version)
The LORD has established His throne in heaven,
And His kingdom rules over all.
Bless the LORD, you His angels,
Who excel in strength, who do His word,
Heeding the voice of His word.
Bless the LORD, all you His hosts,
You ministers of His, who do His pleasure.

The angels listen for us to pray God's Word, then they get to work to make God's purposes come to pass. If we speak against what God's Word says, the demons of Satan have fun wreaking havoc on our lives.

So, we have self-control over what actions our bodies do, what we allow our minds to think on, and the words that come out of our mouths. I could write sooo much on this. Maybe I will later. If you can, get the book Hung by the Tongue by Francis P. Martin.

Watch what you say....you are either sending the angels to flight or delighting the demons.

Think about that.