Suffering in Joy

Joy in suffering.  How is that even possible?  There is something different from those persecuted because of their faith in Christ and the person without Christ. In Christ, He gives one strength.  He consoles their spirit with a peace that can't be explained.  

How can one be in Christ and not have suffering? There is one one way....going back to the world.  Sure all people suffer, but one thing that Billy says is that we are hated.  Our beliefs and our views on worldly issues isn't the same as the world.  We don't believe in same sex marriage - that's right I said it!  We don't believe in abortion.  Sure there are some to claim to be Christians and believe those things are okay.  But only one who has truly let Christ into their life, can one say without a doubt that they are wrong.  We love the person, not the "sin". 

God loves all people but in heaven He says that there are some that will not be let in.   Take this verse:  nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. (1 Corinthians 6:10 NIV). God can forgive the sin that a person commits.  Salvation is for all men who are willing to come forward, admit they are a sinner, believe that Jesus is God's son born of a virgin, and commit their future life to living for Him.

I have to say (although this really should go into the other blog) that in today's time, the world is becoming a very scary place.  I pray that The Lord will come again soon.  However, since no man knows when The Lord is going to return, we should act as though it was today, tomorrow, this hour, this second.  God's true to His word.  I have to say though that with my most recent activities - if certain things happen like I believe it will - my actions could become a crime.  Not that I have committed anything wrong with the current laws. But I can see that the tides are turning against my school of thought.  America is becoming more and more liberal.  The minority is controlling for the majority of the people.  

I fear a revolution is coming.  I am entrenched in this fight to keep America as free as long as she can.  With the recent news of China and Russia doing military maneuvers, it is scary to think why it is happening.  Today, Israel found a spy from another country within its borders.  Syria is receiving special treatment from Russia and the UN.  Iran actually spoke with our president.  This current political climate is a seed of what's to come.

I think all should be reading up on their dusty Bibles to figure out what is to come.  get ready - He is coming.

Today's scripture reading:  and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, (Ephesians 1:19, 20 NIV)

This was the prayer for the day. Lord Jesus, keep us ever mindful of the need to rejoice in You constantly; to go beyond the circumstance, no matter how desperate, and to see You as our hope and joy.

Hearing God

Day 75 -  

The analogy of how radio can be tuned in and brighten anyone's day is like that of a person finding God and his voice that calls to us all.  However in today's world we have a whole lot more distractions than just a radio as when Billy was growing up.  There is TV, Internet, computers, and a whole list of activities that can keep us from hearing God's voice.  Even as I write this inside of a Starbucks, the hustle and busyness of people coming and going seems to tempt me away.  Thank God for headphones and music on the radio.  In today's scripture, Hebrews 13:20-21, the author speaks about how he prays that God would equip the audience with what they need to be ready for the work that God will send their way.  That it would glorify Jesus.

This is what God desires for His children. That they would do the will of God and that they will seek him so they he can teach them what they need to do His will.   How many times during the day do we actively seek God? Once, twice, three times?  (This is for me too). God doesn't want us just part of the time, but all the time.  We must be listening for His voice to tell us what to do when we are confronted with a purpose.   God wants people that are willing to be used for a purpose bigger than their own desires.  Seeking God is just a small part of how one can be used.  

I recently listened to Ed Young (jr not sr) who said he went throughout the day and prayed for anyone who made eye contact with him.  One was a young boy, whom he prayed for his salvation.  Listening is just the potential for the opportunity to do something for God.  Action comes when you are actually  obedient  and do what is asked.

Do you know God's voice?  If not, God says, seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. (Matthew 6:33 NIV)

Secret of happiness

King George V wrote on the flyleaf of the Bible of a friend, “The secret of happiness is not to do what you like to do, but to learn to like what you have to do.” Isn't this a great quote? Happiness isn't created by continually searching all over the world. It is found by finding peace I your heart through Jesus. The only way a restless spirit can ever be tamed to stop its endless roaming is by accepting God's grace. Without it, the soul is unsatisfied. Hopeless, desperate, and forever wanting the next new thrill or the next relationship. 

I too suffered from this after a failed marriage. Only after that did I realize I needed to devote myself to God. Let God be my fulfillment and meet my needs. God cam and does direct your path into the life that He wants for His people. I realized how much I was missing of Christ. On,y then did the fire of His salvation bring me back from the depths of self and I realized the potential of God's grace. Let the fire burn in your heart today. This one is from my heart....Billy just gave me the scripture.

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. (Matthew 6:34 NIV)

A local aquarium seahorse.

Rock of my salvation

Today's lesson is on God's perfectness. Billy talks about how God is not a haphazard God. He is constant. He remains steady no matter what is happening. He likens the story of how God is to a scientist who believes that everything is in motion for a reason. To an astronomer as the stars in the sky, they are constant, they don't move, they don't waiver. Today too many people rely on their feelings. For this reason, there is an increase in violence, divorce, and lawlessness. They are constantly in turmoil because of how they feel at that moment. God says rest on him and he'll be your rock, he'll be your salvation.

The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. (Psalm 18:2 NIV)

Ever have one of those days that you wish you were not at work. Yep, me too, but not for the reason you think. A heated discussion was just down the hall from my office. Luckily, I am able to close my door enough to filter some of the intense noise level. Hasn't really helped that I didn't sleep well for the past two nights. My other blog has started....Feel free to visit it. I'm keeping this one open for a while at least (see how it goes).


My section of the neighborhood has an issue. Apparently, three Pit Bull dogs are roaming the section and killing all the cats (including ours). It just so happens they are using my fence as a battering ram. Heard them tear through it this morning at 5:47 (too early). It sucks because I am weeks away from replacing the side they keep coming through and there is no one behind us. An open field is there. Needless to say, it concerns me because I have two small dogs (one is very brave though. She chased one off the other day). I am going to try to trap them with a cage from the animal control next week since I am out of town the rest of this week. See how it goes....Have a blessed day!






Amazing hot springs formation in Pagaso Springs, Colorado.Politics & Religion

Maturity

Day 72 - Maturity
Most people are considered mature when they reach a certain age.  For some, it is eighteen, some twenty-five, and some never.  In today's lesson, Billy describes people who are not spiritually mature.  They are the found but still haven't moved forward in the Christian walk to a point of maturity.

What has happened to these who seem to be stuck. Was it a life experience or someone in the church that has stunted their growth.  Or was it some other factor.  Only God and that person knows, but it is up to that person to move forward to have the fire be ignited in them,to desire growth and a closer relationship with God.  1 Corinthians 3:1 - Brothers and sisters, I could not address you a people who lives by the spirit but as people who are still worldly - mere infants in Christ.

This scripture says that some people still have one foot in the world and one in Christ.  This is not what Christ intended.  The whole body is to be fixed on Christ, but the only way this can happen is if the person truly resolves to be IN CHRIST.  Only God can woo that person back.

One of many friendly furry friends in Colorado - Hermosa Park.

The tide is Red

Well you won't believe this!  Two post in one day!   I know, I know.....so?  

Well part of the reason is sleeplessness....yes again (and last night, I was up at 3:40). Of course part of the reason is restlessness.  You know, the feeling when you can get settled into a good position (knee is killing me) and there's just something inside that isn't just sitting right with you.   I know what it is and that's why I am here.  

Today, I listen to the majority of Senator Ted Cruz's filibuster on the senate floor.  He was spectacular!  Didn't miss a beat.  Michelle Malkin even mention in her tweet about not an uh or um at all, even when he was reading through the TV, the story of Green Eggs and Ham, by Dr. Seuss.  My twitter account was RT'ing and making comments on other tweets, as well as a few of my own.  I apologize for my non-political friends that follow me, but as I mentioned earlier in my other blog, a fire has been ignited in me that can not be quenched.  Unbeknownst to even my children, I have attempt to write admendments to my states laws.....unfortunately life happened and dreams were squashed temporarily.   However, I am happy that there has been some laws signed by our governor which has at least limits that which I sought many years ago.  

However, that is not what is keeping me up.  I am disappointed in several things from today.  Senator John McCain ripped into Ted Cruz which just tore the veil between conservatives and liberal conservatives. I can only say, that my thoughts were on who bought him out.  Which PAC has dealt a dirty hand to Americans. I can only hope McCain feels the backlash of this outrageous and unwarranted attack in the next election.  My second disappointment is Senator John Cornyn of Texas.  With two Republican Senators, (although Cruz is Tea Party backed, he is still a conservative), I would have expected more from Cornyn.  Not once did he show his face during the speech.  Not once did he tweet his support of Cruz throughout the 21-hours, although he did congratulate him afterwards for his "marathon speech".   My final issue is with someone who recently followed me....disappointed in how they acted toward Holder and Obama.  They sunk to the same level as the democrats.   Enough said about that one.

Now, all the American people can do is rise up and take action.  Don't let apathy set into your life.  

What can you do?

1). Write your Senator

2). Talk about how much your insurance has gone up. (My own went up in 2010 as soon as the law was passed.  I dropped my kids (they have other insurance) just so I can try to save money)

3). Share your story with others.  That's why I started blogging.

4). Don't lose faith in America's freedom.  

5). Learn your constitution 

6). Pray (not necessarily in this order).

7). Get involved!  Find like minded people.

8). Be passionate!

9). Listen to others opinions

10). Be slow to anger, slow to judge, and thoughtful in actions.

I know this is just one persons pint of view, but without patriots there is no freedom.

I bit my Tongue

Day 71 - The tongue can be a root for evil or good. To build up or to tear down. However,when Christ is the rule of the tongue, it can be used to build up and can control other parts of the body as well.

James 4:7 - Submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Billy mentions James 3:3 - when we put a bit into the mouths of horses to make the obey us, we can turn the whole animal. The chapter continues to give other examples of how a controls other things and that the tongue is also tamable, but it can do big damage if not controlled. Verse 8 says it is a restless evil and full of poison. James compares the tongue to being both freshwater and saltwater; which can't come from the same spring. Only with God's help can one tame this unruly beast.

If I had a leash for my tongue like I do for my dog - I would be able to stay away from the snakes of life (good real life analogy). But, the only way to tame it, is to immerse myself in Christ and be filled with the thoughts of God.

Yesterday, I got very angry at someone who assumed I knew something I did not. I could have easily torn into that person without even thinking about it. However, all I could muster up was I was doing the task expected in my office (I'm really not good at conflict). Needless to say, my journal was filled with how angry I was....I think the person knew I was angry about the comments since they left me alone the rest of the day. I guess that would be a good example of holding my tongue. Some would say I was still angry,but the Bible says, In your anger do not sin (Eph 4:26). It also says in 1 Corth 13:5, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrong. Yes, 1 Cor 13 is the love chapter, but it isn't just for people "in love", it is meant for more as a guide for how one acts as Jesus acted. His every thought and action was one of love. Even when he turned over the tables of people selling inside the temple walls, it was done in love. God loves people and hates sin. His actions though the first four books of the New Testament was always done in Love.

Peace.

Amazing Cavern at Longhorn Caverns, Central Texas

Perfection is Achievable

Day 70 - God is perfect.  In every way that we desire to be.  However, we do just desire  it.  It is not achievable for humans to be perfect.  We may focus in one area and be really perfect (as can be) at doing it, but we would fail in other areas.  One must understand God's master plan for man.  He is the author and finisher of our faith.

People, of some thought, say that if you do good all your life, you will inherit the kingdom.   But God's word is clear.  One must accept the perfect gift from God in order to be set free of the guilt that some works can put on those doing good.

In today's lesson, Billy compares the kingdom of God to the doors that lead to them.  In order for people to find the right door that leads to the kingdom, one must be willing to go through the door that leads to life everlasting. God's door is Christ Jesus.  Without him, we will struggle in turmoil, all of our life and not find the peace that truly comes from God.   In John, Jesus states, Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14:27 NIV).  This speaks volumes in today's climate.  We  are told not to be afraid and not let the current situations trouble us.   But one must see the benefit of letting God handle each situation as only He can.  Relinquish your heart to Christ.

One of the many mountains in wintertime Colorado.

God chisels His masterpieces

This day has been filled with tears.   I cried in church, I cried that one of my favorite characters was killed off, I just cried.   If you ask people who know me, I don't cry easily, in fact just the opposite.  So what started all this?  Illness....I felt like crap today.  The weather changed and so did my sinuses.  Darn nasty little boogers....

Today's lesson fits right into the sermon from this morning.  Always love when God backs up His Word. First, the video.... http://skitguys.com/videos/item/gods-chisel. (Really wish I knew how to do the tiny link). Did you watch it?  Pretty amazing, right.  I think there was not a dry eye in the place even pastor Mark.  As mentioned in this amazing video, we are God's handy work, but he constantly wants to replace all that is truly not of him.  For some, it was life experiences that has dealt us the wrong hand or our own choices that made us become bitter or anger.  

Then the lesson from Billy today backed up this video...he mentions that it is society that requires the reboot and the only way that will change is if people change.  The scripture from the video  (Ephesians 2:10 NIV) says we are Gods handiwork but only if we let him into our lives to rip out those experiences that are holding us back from being what he wants us to be.  God uses these experiences only after we allow him to change our perspective on that situation.  Once we allow him into our life we began to become more in tune with home and begin to seek how we can change to please him.

Day 69 - so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, (Ephesians 3:17 NIV)

White Sands, New Mexico

Love Love Love

 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. (1 John 2:15 NIV)

In today's lesson, the evils of this world is mentioned.   Love of money, love of self, and the love of this world.  Too much money, one practically thinks they can do anything.   Love of self leads one to feel they can do no wrong.  While the last one....well, let's just say that it is a combination of everything wrong with the world.  Verse 17 in this chapter says...the world and it's desires will pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever. So what are your thoughts on this verse?   No wrong answers.  Just honest conversation.

I have been in a quandary.  I feel I need to post more about God and my thoughts on His points of view.  If I decided to do this, I will be taking these post to my other blog, which current doesn't have any post. However, if your have been reading since the beginning, I have had a fire be lit in me that just can be quenched easily.  So just be warned that if I feel led, this blog will go silent and the new one will be open (and I am sure attacked). 

Hope everyone's weekend is going well.  I prayed for a quiet one and so far so good, but Sundays outlook has activity written all over it.  Drats!

Gorgeous Colorado

Justification by Faith

Day 67 - But what does it say? “The word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart,” that is, the message concerning faith that we proclaim: If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. (Romans 10:8-10 NIV)

Today's lesson is again on the heart but it extends the discussion further. Like mentioned yesterday, the condition of man is his mind or conscience or soul (all interchangeable).  God has instilled in everyone of us a soul which is connected to Him.  However, the communication is one way until we accept His gift.  In the scripture, Paul tried to convey to the readers that it's a heart problem.  Many times in the Bible this issue is explained (we are hard-headed and stubborn).  Take King David - He too, even though he was a man after God's own heart, had fallen into sin and committed adultery.  It's a heart condition.The disconnection from God.

Well everyone is subject to the same fate as men who are in sin....condemnation.  (Romans 3:23 NIV)  One has to see where they are though just the mere fact they were born and are destined to the same judgement.  But we are justified by faith in Christ  (Romans 3:28 NIV).

Thankfully today I don't work but a half day. Always nice to do things.  Like go complain about your cable bill which still has the incorrect balance. Augh!  
Had lunch with my friend that I complained about earlier. She is over it but is potentially seeing someone else.  Here we go again.

Hopefully I will get to relax this weekend and not be a taxi cab....rain is helping

Nice Buck!  State Park Camping Trip

My Poor Aching Heart

The heart - It is the giver of life and pumps blood continuously throughout ones body.  However, as noted in today's study - it is also the center of attention.  It is what we feel, how we act, and how we show our love.  The Bible speaks of mans condition being a problem with the heart. (Genesis 6:5 - one of many). One must totally surrender to God. Romans 10:9. If you declare with your mouth, Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.  Don't take that so lightly either.  Once you do, you need to seek him everyday in order to learn his ways.  God wants a relationship with you not just a casual fling.

Since the heart, which is really his conscience, is the root cause of mans sin, his downfall is ultimately himself.  Today too many people rely on how they feel to determine their destiny.  This is contrary to what God wants and man needs.  If we would look to God for how we feel about ourselves - the world would be a better place.  Again, due to mans disobedience, God is the soon coming judge of all.

Off my pulpit and back down to me -  even though it was a slow day - someone tried to say, we (my boss and I) didn't do our job.  But I was able to provide the proof that what was done was exactly what was asked for originally.

Just updated my iOS.  Some things I like....closing the apps, better accessibility for controls, and my favorite is how the apps open.  Seems smoother and much more eye pleasing.  The epic failures include - no user input on tiles - I don't like the "seamless" tiles.  I would have wanted the ability to change the color of the tiles and maybe even the transparency.  But overall, a win for the iPhone.

So I spoke with a co-worker who agreed that my boss needs to communicate better.  Yeah!  I wasn't totally off base.  My biggest concern is that he would take it the wrong way and I would end up the one who pays for it in the long run.

Box Canyon Ouray, Colorado

June 2013

Keys to the Kingdom

Day 65 - 1 Kings 17:5

Another day for reassurance.  God's word speaks of the rejection of his faithful servants and due to this they were lonely.  So does this mean that if we too are fruitful with His words, that we will be lonely as well?  I would hope not everyone but like in Ecclesiastes 3:1 - There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens.

Loneliness is not the end of the world.  A person can still be happy and not have close friends.  Still be isolated and having a great life. I think a key to this is being close to God and keeping His word.  I recently read a friend's quote about it is not necessary to know all the Bible, just one verse at a time.  Start with something simple like John 3:16 - For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

I didn't think my boss was going to speak to me again since he asked what he could improve and I answered communication.  I have to say this is one of his faults.   Either he doesn't answer emails (like the one from this morning) or he doesn't tell me things that I think is important (like him being out of the office) or things that affect me but gets upset if someone doesn't communicate with him.  I have felt that since the decision was made to move me under him, I have been placed on the back burner.  It's just the way I feel.  I can't help it.  But as I have told a friend, I have to take charge of my own success.  If I left it up to him to help me succeed, I might not learn anything (MPO - aka My Personal Opinion).

Today's picture comes from the Great State of Texas - Longhorn Caverns.  This  is  a view from the Lookout tower.

One Thousand Years feels like my day

Day  64 - 2nd Peter 3:8-9

But do not forget this one thing, dear friends; with The Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like a day.   The Lord is not slow in keeping  his promise, as some understand slowness.  Instead He is patient with you, not wanting  anyone to perish but everyone  to come to repentance. (NIV)

As Billy notes in today's study --any careful student of the Bible knows how God operates.   He is patient even though man dives further in his sin.  It however doesn't mean that we should sit by as the world disintegrates beneath us.   No, we should be the ones singing the hallelujah chorus of God's salvation.  We  should  be the ones that are shining the light of the world that's in us.

Well on an upbeat note, I spoke with a coworker about the presentation.  Who said I should have used buzz words instead of notes.  Great advice and he said I wasn't the only one who he thought could have done better.  He pointed out some of the other peoples faults who presented also.  Even the one  I thought did really good.  Thank God for people like that who are willing to observe and give you great  feedback.  

What a difference a day makes.  All my frustration about yesterday was for not.  I wish I would have spoke to them yesterday about my feelings, but sometimes it needs venting in order to release me  from the grip and  to be open for criticism; which I didn't receive.  But I received support and suggestionson how  to  improve.

another camping trip excursion 

Monday - The day I bombed!

Be warned - I'm not bright and cheerie all the time.  I have my frustrations just like you.  The next paragraph proves it.

That's right!  I bombed my presentation.  I felt like throwing up afterwards.  I mean, it's not like I haven't done this before.  Maybe it was all the emotions from the weekend spilling over into Monday.  I really don't understand why I am no longer able to speak in public.  Maybe it is due to my non-involvement in speaking activities, or the mere fact that I haven't spoken in public for at least 2 or 2 1/2 years.  Moving on.

Day 63 - God is the giver of life.  In today's world, we fight for freedom and existence. Some of us feel like we don't exist at all. God's word says that nothing exist without Him. So if you feel like you don't matter, you do to God.  All you have to do is to ask God to show you how much. 

Hebrews 1:2 - The law of gravity would not have been possible without Him.  In order for the world to exist God set in motion the tiniest of thought which moved various particles into place.  God sent His son to earth as the final act so mankind would be redeemed.  Now we just wait until this last part is finished.  And we don't need to know why.  Cause we matter to him so much that he delays his judgment.  However, it does seem like it should be over soon.

A storm over the New Mexico Desert.

Woo Hoo! It's The Weekend (Happier than the Geico Camel on Hump Day)

Saturday - Today is my dad's birthday.  Happy Birthday, Dad!  I love you so much!

Day 61 - Psalm 119:9 - How can a young person stay on the path of purity.  By living according to Your Word.  

In Today's world, there are lots of things that can distract you.  Buy the bigger house, bigger TV, the better, more luxurious car.  But when it comes to living with God, one should strive to listen to His word on the matter.  Living within our own means is something we should all strive to do.  A few years ago, there was a bunch of home loans written to people who really couldn't afford them.  Then when the economy tanked, there were a lot of foreclosures.  Of course, the lending issues came to light but have the laws really been changed by the government to protect the people.  And, what about the industry standards.

So living int today's world means distractions.  Go big or go home.  God's word says, stay close to me and I will supply your needs (paraphrased).  

Sunday - Day 62 - Truthful   Being truthful is more than just telling the truth, it's also being honest with yourself.  Which leads me to my dilemma.  You see, being truthful with how I felt about a recent event, kept me up last night.  Upon further introspection, I discovered the issue was me not being honest about the situation that happened the other day.  I buried it.  I didn't deal with how I felt.  I felt wronged even though it was really my issue and not the other person's issue.  

So what is one to do when it comes to a situation such as that....for me I sulk.  I mean to the point that I lost sleep.   Then today, I felt like crap.  BLAH!!!  At least I didn't have my daughter here so I would have to do things....yes that helped me deal with my sleep deprivation issue.  

Today's verse - Psalm 51:6  Yet you desired faithfulness, even in the womb.  You taught me wisdom in that secret place.  I can see how God's hand is in the life of even a small child, not yet born.  This words speaks of how God gives a child wisdom.  

I had to pray that God would give me wisdom.  I felt distraught over the whole situation and only wish to change my attitude about.  

This was taken at a local park by my daughter.

Friday the 13th. Superstition or Epic Fail

It's Friday the 13th....Oh Wow. Had a fairly good day at work and then went for a group activity. Again, I stuck to my own group and didn't mingle with the remainder of the group.

Day 60 - Loneliness. Sometimes I think people are lonely but they don't express it (Like me!). The friendships I have lost over the years. From my best friend in high school to a really close co-worker and my church friendships. (Yes, even the church is not all roses). I think the one that affected me the most is the loss of the church. For people who say that they care, know where you live, yet no calls, no visits, and no belief (long story on the belief). I think that still has me baffled. If only God would have revealed His truth to them - Would that have changed everything? Would that have made them turn from the sinner? Only God knows.

I have worked hard at building the one true friendship I currently have but I don't think I can share everything with her and get the kind of support I need. (Sunday's sermon really confirmed this point). I had already poured my heart out after my good friend passed away. I didn't want to have that on my head for not witnessing to her even though I was the closest. Only time will tell where Christ stands in her Heart.




You really can't see me, can you?

State Park Camping trip 2009

The rest of my week

The rest of my week was very frustrating. From a lost cat to work issues, I spent the remainder of my week in a fog.

Tuesday - Fruits of the spirit. Interesting that medical doctors now agree with the Bible in causes of illness could be due to how well we handle adversity or even anger. It man would just learn that his own nature is the cause of his illnesses, how many diseases would be cured.

Interesting enough my lunch included a discussion on high blood pressure. Two people I know have it, but only one it runs in their family. Both take medicine for it. However the difference in there activities was so vast. One was a super workout freak (the really hard core kind). The other only worked out when it was convenient. Needless to say, how different two people can be in that aspect.

Self discovery - I really am a quiet person. No matter who I am around - I usually listen more than I speak. It really is amazing that I use to give speeches at school and have done other public speaking. But I am better at one-on-one conversation than in a group. Its like a disconnection. Maybe I am just more comfortable in one-on-one than in a group. Too bad I have to give a presentation this next week. I get so nervous.

More political stuff - delete delete delete....

Wednesday - September 11th - It's been twelve years since the fatal attacks on our soils. Many lives were lost and many more affected. (this next part amazed me).

Galatians 5 - Subtitle is Freedom in Christ. Fruit of the Spirit....love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law. v. 22-23.


I wrote the words down...against such things there is no law. What if in today's world, one was arrested for doing good instead of doing bad (OH MY - doesn't that already happen?). But the verses mean so much more. Freedom. If we practice the fruits of the spirit, we are free. We can do all these things without fear of someone coming to arrest us.

Daily Reading 58 - Amazingly - There is comfort for those who mourn...God gives a song. Isaiah 51:12.

Early day - Frustrating day.

Thursday - Day 59 Counting the cost of salvation. It cost God to experience the sins of man - but yet he did not sin. It cost His life, but all we have to do is to ask for His forgiveness.

God is salvation, even from the beginning of time. He saved Adam and Eve from themselves by clothing and providing shelter.
Personal stuff delete delete delete.....maybe one day. 


Sad day - found the cat dead. My daughters cried. The tree which we had buried other pets has now overgrown them with hard roots, so this pet was buried outside the garden where she would frequently play. We have had an issue with wild dogs. One of our neighbors had taken in a lot of stray cats (I kid you not, at least 20). All of those cats are gone. It's only been in the recent weeks that we have noticed the downward trend. One of our other neighbors said they had to bury another cat too.
Before you, silently I sway,
I feel so anxious when you are near,
In vain, I cast a glance your way,
I'm sure that I will never say,
What I'm imagining so freely.
- Alexander Pushkin

(from my chocolate, I deserved)




From a local park in June 2013

First week. (A few days)

I have to start off by saying...I am not a writer, not a blogger, and definitely not looking for any notoriety from this new venture.  I am just me.  I may not give out a whole lot of details about me here, but we will see where it goes.

I started off a journal for the first time in my life this past week.  I know someone who is a blogger and they suggested a gratitude journal.  You know, some way of recording what you are thankful for so you can look back and cherish what you do have and not be jealous of what you don't.  So that's where the idea to journal came from and it has evolved into this place.

So with that I can say, I won't be writing everyday here, but will record it in my journal and then a few times a week put it here.   And just so you know, yes I do mention names, but they have been changed to protect their privacy.  

So since I am just doing this once a week, I'll start with last Sunday (yeah, it's the day I started)

Sunday. My weekend has been quite busy.  My uncle just turned 87 a few days ago and I had gone to visit them for the evening on Saturday. My cousin was down from the northern part of the state and I was surprised to see her kids.  Her daughter is an excellent cook and fixed a wonderful chicken dinner with some of the best mashed potatoes I have ever had (high end restaurant quality).  We had a good visit.

I had a fire awaken in me a few weeks ago when I visited my cousin.   My twitter account has been very active here recently due to this fire.  I had also started a daily Bible devotion by Billy Graham.   (Some of the writings will be specific to these readings). 

Day 55 - Micah 7:18. God can use anyone if we are willing to get out of our comfort zone (#twitter) and listen to Him.  God is more powerful through our weakness (and not the physical weakness). We must be willing to give up the area of our life that we want the most control. In my own life, it is finances.  I believe that is why I have to stand firm in giving my tithe. (Started new church and gave there for the first time last week). NO MATTER WHERE IT GOES!!!!   (yes it does matter to me). #tithe #church

Letting go is the human's hardest thing to do.  We like control.  Control means power;  power means leadership. But without the true living God, all that control is meaningless (even if you think you have control, you really don't.  Someone else always controls you). With God, a different kind of leadership happens.  One of kindness and recognition of His sovereignty.  

So what about a simple women in today's world.  Are we still looked at as the weaker sex?  I believe so (I know, so unpopular with the modern woman's opinion). Mentally and physically.  Physically of course there is big differences.  God made us that way....(Eve totally destroyed that). But mentally God gave us a different skill set than men.  Sure, we overlap in some mental capacity and emotions.  When women tend to be multi tasking (duh we have too, some men are just oblivious).  But their engineering capabilities far exceeds most women.

Back to finances...letting go of the fear of not having enough is part of giving.   One day, I wish I could give to other charities that I believe in what they do.  But for now, I have to be content with God's House.  

Wow that was a lot for just one day......today is not a day to share all though....yes there was more....

Monday. Full day at work. Had a hard time even trying to get motivated to get out of the house early.  (My goal was 6:30.  In my dreams). 

Day 56. #Ephesians 4:20-22.  As noted above (or yesterday in my journal), man's downfall is being proud (control and pride go hand in hand). As noted by Billy, Paul was a harsh man.  Full of pride (upbringing). We as humans have a built in pride gene.  This is due to the fall of mankind to sin when Eve first listen to satan.  He tricked her.....God didn't say she couldn't eat of the fruit (Genesis 3:1-5).  But deception by satan allowed pride to slip in through the forbidden fruit.  God says unless we become born again-in spirit- We can not partake of the new fruit - Jesus.  

I could go all political on you but I think my twitter account is enough....don't want any haters here!!  So I am removing my comments I made about that in my personal journal from here for now.   Maybe another blog....lol.  But I do have one part that would probably give you a clue on where I stand (if you already haven't guessed). 

I believe we can only delay the discipline of the Lord for America so long before God says enough.  From apathy of His people, to the name and claim it prosperity and feel good preaching, God will eventually say, I have waited long enough.  God have mercy on your children in America.  For our unfaithfulness, our apathy, or devotion to other gods.  Wake us up out of our comfort zones so that we can ask forgiveness of our sins and have mercy on our land that we will seek your favor. Holy is The Lord of Israel

Spiritual growth requires spiritual watering from the Holy Spirit.  Without our desire to be watered, we grow very parched.  Much like a plant that doesn't get watered (I am currently killing one in my bathroom from lack of water-AUGH!).  God can provide the desire to be watered but only the person can thirst. 

My picture of the day. #colorado