‘Tis the season, so to speak. Fall has officially arrived and while the temps here on the Texas Gulf Coast are not chilly, they are more easily tolerated than those of 100 degrees plus we experience during the summer months. With the change of seasons come football games, crackling fireplaces and hot chocolate as the holiday celebrations grow closer and closer. Halloween comes first. While I do not agree with the celebration of Halloween, I have attended many Fall Festivals and other events to celebrate the arrival of Fall. Have you ever heard the story behind Halloween? Let me enlighten you if you haven’t.
Halloween is typically linked to the Celtic festival of Samhain. The name is derived from Old Irish and means summer’s end. A similar festival was held by the ancient Britons and is known as Calan Graef. The festival of Samhain celebrates the end of the "lighter half" of the year and beginning of the "darker half", and is sometimes regarded as the "Celtic New Year." The ancient Celts believed that the border between this world and the Otherworld became thin on Samhain, allowing spirits (both harmless and harmful) to pass through. The family's ancestors were honored and invited home while harmful spirits were warded off. It is believed that the need to ward off harmful spirits led to the wearing of costumes and masks. Their purpose was to disguise oneself as a harmful spirit and thus avoid harm.
The word Halloween is first attested in the 16th century and represents a Scottish variant of the fuller All-Hallows-Even ("evening"), that is, the night before All Hallows Day. I’ve always been proud that my birthday (November 1) is known as All Saints Day.
Symbols associated with Halloween formed over time encompassing customs of medieval holy days as well as contemporary cultures. The souling practice of commemorating the souls in purgatory with candle lanterns carved from turnips became adapted into the making of jack-o'-lanterns. In traditional Celtic Halloween festivals, large turnips were hollowed out, carved with faces and placed in windows to ward off evil spirits. The carving of pumpkins is associated with Halloween in North America where pumpkins are both readily available and much larger – making them easier to carve than turnips. Many families that celebrate Halloween carve a pumpkin into a frightening or comical face and place it on their doorstep after dark. I do not imagine they have any idea that the custom of doing so is to ward off evil spirits.
The imagery of Halloween is derived from many sources, including national customs, works of Gothic and horror literature (such as the novels Frankenstein and Dracula), and classic horror films (such as Frankenstein and The Mummy). Halloween imagery includes themes of death, ghosts and monsters. Traditional characters include ghosts, witches, skeletons, vampires, werewolves, demons, bats, and black cats.
The colors black and orange are associated with the celebrations, perhaps because of the darkness of night and the color of fire, autumn leaves or pumpkins. When my son, Bill, was about 6 years old we attended Sagemont Baptist Church (now Sagemont Church). I remember one Halloween season Billy (as he was known then) went to talk to the pastor, John Morgan, about why the colors black and orange represented Halloween. Morgan knelt down and listened intently as Billy explained, “You see, black represents sin and the orange is like the flames of Hell.” As only Morgan can do, he smiled his famous smile and told Bill he had to agree with him. Out of the mouths of children . . .
I cringe when I see devil costumes for little children. It’s okay to explain even to small children why they should not wear a ghost or gremlin costume. Our children learn by the example set before them. There is nothing wrong with celebrating the beginning of a new season, but we should not blindly allow our babies to dress up as ghosts, demons and heaven forbid – the devil himself! Satan is very real and not a force to make fun of or imitate in any way. Satan is alive and well and certainly taken too lightly by the world in general and by many professing Christians.
If your child wants to dress in a costume, why not encourage a friendly costume? Some of the best costumes my kids ever had were homemade. One year the whole family went to a Fall Festival as hobos. We looked the part and had so much fun. My kids have been clowns, tigers, and a vast assortment of characters over the years. One year Jon was a wise man and Summer and Krystin were sheep. They were so cute in their black leotards with cotton batting stuck all over them. Another year the girls all put on heavy makeup and tons of hair gel and lots of jewelry. They resembled a rock and roll band. Their look was definitely original! It was fun applying all the makeup (eye shadow on lips and lipstick as eye shadow, etc.) and putting glitter and spray painted color on their hair.
My point is simple – have fun. Family time is so important. Take your kiddos to one of the many Fall Festivals planned in the next couple of weeks in your area. Check your local newspaper and I am sure you will find a fun, safe atmosphere for your children to make some happy memories. I am sure not everyone will agree with my opinion, but this is my blog so my opinion is what is expressed. The older I get, the more I am convinced we are not serious enough about the evil influences that we accept into our lives needlessly. Take care of your babies because they only know what you teach them. Don’t let the world be their teacher. Your input is definitely required!
Love ya!
Candy
Friday, October 15, 2010
Thursday, September 30, 2010
I love this time of year. The temperature is dropping, signifying the arrival of Fall. We begin to see decorations of pumpkins and scarecrows, smells of gingerbread and cloves, and tastes of caramel apples, pumpkin pie and roasted corn. As the seasons blend from Summer to Fall there is a feeling of something new. We have a renewed hope for the future which will soon be buzzing with holiday preparations and visits with family and friends.
I want to talk today about hope. We have all used this 4-letter word, usually meaning we are wishing a certain event will come to pass. We hope for rain; we hope it doesn’t rain; we hope we get a raise at work; we hope our birthday present is what we want; we hope our child gets that scholarship; we hope Uncle George doesn’t bore everyone again with the same old stories at the Thanksgiving dinner. Hope is to cherish a desire with anticipation and with expectation. When we have hope we have a desire to see an expected outcome. Hope is the absence of despair, disbelief, discouragement and pessimism. If you have hope you will not be discouraged.
The Bible is chocked full of verses about hope. Of all the books of the Bible that speaks directly to hope, Psalms has an abundance of references. Due to space, I have not listed all, but these are a good representative.
Psalm 119:114 “You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in Your word.”
Psalm 31:24 “Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for and hope for and expect the Lord.”
Psalm 39:7 “And now, Lord, what do I wait for and expect? My hope and expectation are in You.”
Psalm 43:5 “Why are you cast down, O my inner self? And why should you moan over me and be disquieted within me? Hope in God and wait expectantly for Him, for I shall yet praise Him, Who is the help of my countenance, and my God.”
Psalm 71:14 “But I will hope continually, and will praise You yet more and more.”
Psalm 27:14 “Wait and hope for and expect the Lord; be brave and of good courage and let your heart be stout and enduring. Yes, wait for and hope for and expect the Lord.”
I could not help but notice that, along with hope, these Scriptures include another important word, “wait.” Oh my goodness, how I dislike that word at times. When we hope in the Lord, we are to wait on Him to work things for our good in His timing, not ours. That is the hard part of hope. I believe we all are "fixers," wanting to jump in and “fix” a situation before we allow God to take the time necessary to soften hearts and make things happen. Waiting on God is a good thing and in that time of waiting we can learn more about Him and ourselves. Sounds like a good topic for a future blog!
My favorite passage about hope is found in the New Testament, Romans 5:1-8. When I walked through a valley of discouragement and divorce followed by the disease of cancer, this verse ministered to me and allowed me to continue to hope for my future. I learned to encourage myself in the Lord with this Scripture. If you are going through a crisis this passage will bring your comfort. If things are okay with you today, hang on – there will be a time when you need this passage to renew your faith and hope.
“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Knowing that Christ died for me, even knowing my faults and sins, gives me no other choice but to trust Him with my life. If He loves me enough to endure the horrible death he suffered, I can trust him with my life and look expectantly toward my future. I can know that He will take care of me and those I love because that is His promise. As the old hymn says,
“My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus’ name.
His oath, His covenant, His blood, Support me in the whelming flood.
When all around my soul gives way, He then is all my hope and stay.
On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand,
All other ground is sinking sand.”
I made the decision long ago to remain in a hopeful state. The Word of God sustains me and reassures me this is where I belong. I asked God once why I kept hoping a certain event would happen only to be disappointed time and time again. He answered ever so sweetly, “If you didn’t have hope you would have given up a long time ago.” Friends, I pray you will never give up hope for your future. God has the Master Plan and He wants only the best for you. Won’t you trust Him? He loves you more than you can comprehend. Place your hope and trust in Him, for He will not disappoint you.
Micah 7:7 “But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior, my God will hear me.”
Candy
I want to talk today about hope. We have all used this 4-letter word, usually meaning we are wishing a certain event will come to pass. We hope for rain; we hope it doesn’t rain; we hope we get a raise at work; we hope our birthday present is what we want; we hope our child gets that scholarship; we hope Uncle George doesn’t bore everyone again with the same old stories at the Thanksgiving dinner. Hope is to cherish a desire with anticipation and with expectation. When we have hope we have a desire to see an expected outcome. Hope is the absence of despair, disbelief, discouragement and pessimism. If you have hope you will not be discouraged.
The Bible is chocked full of verses about hope. Of all the books of the Bible that speaks directly to hope, Psalms has an abundance of references. Due to space, I have not listed all, but these are a good representative.
Psalm 119:114 “You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in Your word.”
Psalm 31:24 “Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for and hope for and expect the Lord.”
Psalm 39:7 “And now, Lord, what do I wait for and expect? My hope and expectation are in You.”
Psalm 43:5 “Why are you cast down, O my inner self? And why should you moan over me and be disquieted within me? Hope in God and wait expectantly for Him, for I shall yet praise Him, Who is the help of my countenance, and my God.”
Psalm 71:14 “But I will hope continually, and will praise You yet more and more.”
Psalm 27:14 “Wait and hope for and expect the Lord; be brave and of good courage and let your heart be stout and enduring. Yes, wait for and hope for and expect the Lord.”
I could not help but notice that, along with hope, these Scriptures include another important word, “wait.” Oh my goodness, how I dislike that word at times. When we hope in the Lord, we are to wait on Him to work things for our good in His timing, not ours. That is the hard part of hope. I believe we all are "fixers," wanting to jump in and “fix” a situation before we allow God to take the time necessary to soften hearts and make things happen. Waiting on God is a good thing and in that time of waiting we can learn more about Him and ourselves. Sounds like a good topic for a future blog!
My favorite passage about hope is found in the New Testament, Romans 5:1-8. When I walked through a valley of discouragement and divorce followed by the disease of cancer, this verse ministered to me and allowed me to continue to hope for my future. I learned to encourage myself in the Lord with this Scripture. If you are going through a crisis this passage will bring your comfort. If things are okay with you today, hang on – there will be a time when you need this passage to renew your faith and hope.
“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Knowing that Christ died for me, even knowing my faults and sins, gives me no other choice but to trust Him with my life. If He loves me enough to endure the horrible death he suffered, I can trust him with my life and look expectantly toward my future. I can know that He will take care of me and those I love because that is His promise. As the old hymn says,
“My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus’ name.
His oath, His covenant, His blood, Support me in the whelming flood.
When all around my soul gives way, He then is all my hope and stay.
On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand,
All other ground is sinking sand.”
I made the decision long ago to remain in a hopeful state. The Word of God sustains me and reassures me this is where I belong. I asked God once why I kept hoping a certain event would happen only to be disappointed time and time again. He answered ever so sweetly, “If you didn’t have hope you would have given up a long time ago.” Friends, I pray you will never give up hope for your future. God has the Master Plan and He wants only the best for you. Won’t you trust Him? He loves you more than you can comprehend. Place your hope and trust in Him, for He will not disappoint you.
Micah 7:7 “But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior, my God will hear me.”
Candy
Friday, July 30, 2010
Unlikely Evangelist
If you had known me in my teenage years, 20's and early 30's, you would never imagine me in ministry of any type. Yes, I was a Christian, but I had chosen to take back lordship of my life from God and only for brief time spans did I allow Him any access to how I was living. In 1984 I began to realize how much God loved me and I began to see that even my Sunday School teacher had problems in her life - problems not too different from the ones I had. Suddenly, I saw my Christian leaders no longer as infallable and living a bubble-like existence that protected them from life. As teachers and preachers began to be transparent, I got freed up from the stereotype image I had of all ministry leaders. As I look back now some 26 years later, I don't understand how I could have been that dense about the things of God. At times I think where I could be now in ministry if I had never pulled away from Him. But, God is a gracious forgiving God and He welcomes all who come to Him with open arms and enough grace to forgive any transgression. Also, God took who I was and made me into who I am today. I have not "arrived" by any sense of the word, but I have grown. My testimony is based on how God changed my life. My ministry calling is to Christians who live defeated instead of victorious lives. My calling is to show people how much God loves them.
Through years of adversity, illness and financial disasters God has shown Himself to me as my strength, protector, healer, provider and so much more. You see, it is very difficult to tell someone about the attributes of God when you have never experienced any of them in your own life. I know that all things come into a Christian's life by first coming from God's hand. He will never let anything happen to me that won't stand up the promise of Romans 8:28, "For we know that all things work together for the good of those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose." God took who I was and made me who I am. I would never want to have a repeat of the trials I have endured, but at the same time I would never trade those trials for what I have learned about God and His love for me through them. He is an awesome God.
I was definitely an unlikely evangelist 26 years ago. Certainly, I am far from perfect now, but through progressive sanctification God is growing me up to be a mature Christian. My prayer each day is for God to use me to shine a little Jesus everywhere I go. The world may boast through media, movies, books and internet that it is full of love, but love and lust are two entirely different things. I submit to you that the world's view of love is actually lust. Without God, no one can truly understand what love is. I want to reflect the love of God in my life so people will see the difference He can make in a life.
One day my sanctification will be perfected, when I stand before Jesus in heaven. Until then, I forge ahead with a song in my heart and the love of God in my life. Unlikely evangelist? Not ever again.
God loves you so much. Won't you return that love by serving Him?
Candy
Through years of adversity, illness and financial disasters God has shown Himself to me as my strength, protector, healer, provider and so much more. You see, it is very difficult to tell someone about the attributes of God when you have never experienced any of them in your own life. I know that all things come into a Christian's life by first coming from God's hand. He will never let anything happen to me that won't stand up the promise of Romans 8:28, "For we know that all things work together for the good of those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose." God took who I was and made me who I am. I would never want to have a repeat of the trials I have endured, but at the same time I would never trade those trials for what I have learned about God and His love for me through them. He is an awesome God.
I was definitely an unlikely evangelist 26 years ago. Certainly, I am far from perfect now, but through progressive sanctification God is growing me up to be a mature Christian. My prayer each day is for God to use me to shine a little Jesus everywhere I go. The world may boast through media, movies, books and internet that it is full of love, but love and lust are two entirely different things. I submit to you that the world's view of love is actually lust. Without God, no one can truly understand what love is. I want to reflect the love of God in my life so people will see the difference He can make in a life.
One day my sanctification will be perfected, when I stand before Jesus in heaven. Until then, I forge ahead with a song in my heart and the love of God in my life. Unlikely evangelist? Not ever again.
God loves you so much. Won't you return that love by serving Him?
Candy
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Remembering Those Special People
Recently I have been thinking about my past trials and struggles. In 2000 my world as I knew it fell apart. My husband of 16 years was gone and my children were shell-shocked due to the nature of his disappearance from our lives. It was good he was gone, but nevertheless very traumatic on our family. Within 3 months of his departure I was divorced and moved to Houston with 5 children. I found a job and a month later was diagnosed with cancer. What a horribly devastating year 2000 was. Y2K was the buzz in 1999 in anticipation of what might happen in 2000, but what happened in my life and the lives of my children was far more frightening than any Y2K prediction could ever be. It seemed as if everyone’s life around me continued to go on perfectly while mine had taken a cruel, sharp turn. I began to feel like Job, but was afraid to ask God what else could happen for fear something else would. The year finished out with my brother collapsing at my Mother’s home and subsequently having surgery for 3 brain tumors. I was so sick from radiation and chemotherapy that I couldn’t even go to the hospital. But, God never let me get too down without reminding me of His provision. My employer of only 1 month at the time of my diagnosis saved my job for me (even though I was unable to work for nearly 4 months), paid my health insurance premiums, and also provided our Thanksgiving meal. Members of Sagemont Church drove me to daily radiation appointments at M.D. Anderson Hospital for weeks. At Christmas, through the teachers at Freeman Elementary, the Houston Police Department came to my home with gifts for all 5 children, as well as groceries. A wealthy businessman sent me $2,000 for Christmas and $1,000 a month for the next 6 months to help me get back on my feet. Time and time again, God showed Himself in many, many ways. He assured me I would be healed and that my future was secure in Him. I leaned on prayer warriors from Dogwood Church in Athens, Sagemont Church in Houston, and First Baptist Church, Cleveland to pull me through. My former pastor, Phil Greenawalt, was always available for me to cry on his shoulder, even after I moved from Athens to Houston. I still thank God to this day for those who prayed for me and helped me during that time.
2001 was looking much better as I was able to return to work in January. January 12, 2001, I was told the cancer was gone. I am writing this in June 2010 and I am still cancer free! Praise God! My brother returned to teaching but took a turn for the worse in March 2001 and subsequently went to be with the Lord in June 2001. You can see just from what is included in this blog that what I lived through in less than a year is more than some people live through in a lifetime. Through all the trials, God has become my everything. The essence of my being is in Him. No, I don’t want another cancer diagnosis or divorce or heartache, but I would not trade what I have gained in knowledge of God and how He works for anything this world affords. I am who I am today and my faith is strong because I have seen God at work in adverse situations over and over again.
So, what I intend to do this week is find addresses for all those who were particularly helpful to me during that time. I will send each one a personal note – not an e-mail – to let them know that I still remember their kindness and support. In doing so, I hope to impress upon them exactly how much I appreciate them in hopes that they will be encouraged to continue to help others. Ten years have come and gone, but I will never forget the unselfish acts of others on my behalf. Is there someone you need to thank? Perhaps a teacher, pastor, friend or even a former employer meant a lot to you and helped you in the past. Let them know you appreciate them; I know it will be a blessing to them and to you.
I hope you know how very much God loves you.
Candy
2001 was looking much better as I was able to return to work in January. January 12, 2001, I was told the cancer was gone. I am writing this in June 2010 and I am still cancer free! Praise God! My brother returned to teaching but took a turn for the worse in March 2001 and subsequently went to be with the Lord in June 2001. You can see just from what is included in this blog that what I lived through in less than a year is more than some people live through in a lifetime. Through all the trials, God has become my everything. The essence of my being is in Him. No, I don’t want another cancer diagnosis or divorce or heartache, but I would not trade what I have gained in knowledge of God and how He works for anything this world affords. I am who I am today and my faith is strong because I have seen God at work in adverse situations over and over again.
So, what I intend to do this week is find addresses for all those who were particularly helpful to me during that time. I will send each one a personal note – not an e-mail – to let them know that I still remember their kindness and support. In doing so, I hope to impress upon them exactly how much I appreciate them in hopes that they will be encouraged to continue to help others. Ten years have come and gone, but I will never forget the unselfish acts of others on my behalf. Is there someone you need to thank? Perhaps a teacher, pastor, friend or even a former employer meant a lot to you and helped you in the past. Let them know you appreciate them; I know it will be a blessing to them and to you.
I hope you know how very much God loves you.
Candy
Friday, May 28, 2010
Created in His Image
Out of all of God's creation, man was created last of all, on the 6th day of creation. He was made the same day the beasts were and from the same earth. He was also made to inhabit the earth with them, yet to rule over them. Man was created to be a different creature from the animals. He had flesh and spirit and was made to be dedicated and devoted to the Father, Son and Holy Ghost. God said, "Let us make man in our image." God then proceeded to create Adam, the first man, from the earth. He then created Eve, the first woman, from the side of Adam. The first man and first woman were made in the image of God. This was before the fall of man, (before the serpent talked Eve into eating the forbidden fruit and she twisted Adam's arm into doing the same [the devil made me do it]) but the Bible tells us in
1 Corinthians 11:7 that man is still created in the likeness and glory of God.
So how does man reflect the image of God? How can that be? God is infinitely above anything man can hope to attain. God is perfect and man is imperfect. It is the soul of man that bears God's image. The soul is an intelligent, active, immortal spirit resembling God, the Father of spirits, and the soul of the world. God’s image upon man consists in knowledge, righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10). We know from John 4 that God is Spirit and does not reside in a physical body. We exist currently as body and soul together which are intertwined to make us the persons we are. While our bodies do not resemble God, our bodies are called the temple of God in 2 Corinthians 3:16-17, "Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him. For God's temple is holy, and you are that temple." This truth is also found in 1 Corinthians 6:19, "Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own,you were bought with a price. Therefore honor God with your body." What an endorsement for a healthy diet and lifestyle!
God gave man free will which also reflects God’s image. Man has the ability to choose his own actions. He understands good and evil unlike Adam and Eve before the fall, although Adam and Eve did understand they should obey God’s commands. God did not create mankind to be robots, but to think and make decisions based on principles He has set in place.
Because we are made in God’s image, we are able to fellowship with Him. Through this fellowship we should daily be more and more like Him in everything we do. Thanks to progressive sanctification, we can be made more into His likeness day by day. My responsibility as a Christian is to let the light and love of God shine through my life to everyone I come into contact with. My prayer daily is for the Holy Spirit to assist me in doing just that. God wants me involved in His work here on earth. He loves me and has called me to serve Him. The highest compliment I have ever been paid and the biggest responsibility I have ever been given was for the God of all creation to tell me that I am created in His image!
1 Corinthians 11:7 that man is still created in the likeness and glory of God.
So how does man reflect the image of God? How can that be? God is infinitely above anything man can hope to attain. God is perfect and man is imperfect. It is the soul of man that bears God's image. The soul is an intelligent, active, immortal spirit resembling God, the Father of spirits, and the soul of the world. God’s image upon man consists in knowledge, righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10). We know from John 4 that God is Spirit and does not reside in a physical body. We exist currently as body and soul together which are intertwined to make us the persons we are. While our bodies do not resemble God, our bodies are called the temple of God in 2 Corinthians 3:16-17, "Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him. For God's temple is holy, and you are that temple." This truth is also found in 1 Corinthians 6:19, "Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own,you were bought with a price. Therefore honor God with your body." What an endorsement for a healthy diet and lifestyle!
God gave man free will which also reflects God’s image. Man has the ability to choose his own actions. He understands good and evil unlike Adam and Eve before the fall, although Adam and Eve did understand they should obey God’s commands. God did not create mankind to be robots, but to think and make decisions based on principles He has set in place.
Because we are made in God’s image, we are able to fellowship with Him. Through this fellowship we should daily be more and more like Him in everything we do. Thanks to progressive sanctification, we can be made more into His likeness day by day. My responsibility as a Christian is to let the light and love of God shine through my life to everyone I come into contact with. My prayer daily is for the Holy Spirit to assist me in doing just that. God wants me involved in His work here on earth. He loves me and has called me to serve Him. The highest compliment I have ever been paid and the biggest responsibility I have ever been given was for the God of all creation to tell me that I am created in His image!
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
My Vacation
This week I am preparing for a vacation. I am so excited; I’ve already packed my bags!! I have not taken a trip (other than a short weekend trip) in many years. I remember the last trip I took which required me to leave Texas was when my son got married in Las Vegas 4 years ago and, you guessed it – weekend trip! In just 3 days I will get on a plane at Hobby Airport and fly to Atlanta. I’ve never been to the Atlanta Airport, but I have heard horror stories. All I have to do is find the MARTA train and make sure I am on the correct one to take me to Doraville, where my niece will pick me up and drive me to Cleveland, GA, about an hour north. I will be visiting my sister and her children and grandchildren who live nearby. Hopefully my niece and nephew from Alabama will have the opportunity to drive over for a visit while I am there. Judy (my sister) has a lot of things planned and it was wise to make her home the first stop on my trip. I am sure we will go to Helen, Babyland (home of the Cabbage Patch Doll), and some antique stores. Of course, we will be attending First Baptist Church of Cleveland, GA on Sunday followed by a wonderful lunch with family. It will be so good to see everyone there that I miss so much.
After spending 3 busy days and nights with Judy, I am taking a shuttle back to the Atlanta Airport and flying to Ft. Lauderdale, FL. to see my newest grandson, Raven. He was just born 8 days ago and I can hardly wait to hold him and kiss his chubby cheeks. My daughter Krys is fairly laid back so I am planning to spend a lot of time at my hotel, sunning, sleeping and doing a lot of nothing for 4 solid days! Oh, I am sure we will take in the sights, but my goal once I hit Florida is to enjoy white sand beaches and crystal clear water. That is something I have never experienced. I was born in Galveston. From pictures I have seen of other islands, Galveston beaches are the ugliest in the world! Thank goodness Ft. Lauderdale is on the Atlantic side of the state so there should be no problems from the ongoing influx of oil and is currently spewing off the coast of Louisiana. By the way, I remember getting tar all over my body and bathing suits since I was a child whenever we went to Galveston. Oil spills must be talked about more now than they were then. Just a thought . . .
I have had a very difficult couple of years with the loss of 3 jobs. Fortunately, I now have a wonderful job at NASA, but no one here knows how long our jobs will be in place. I know God is in control so I refuse to worry about losing this job. Instead I have chosen to thank God for His blessings and provision. I wanted to share this particular blog to let my friends know about my trip May 15 -22, but to also give thanks to God for allowing me to take this trip. Every good and perfect gift comes from God. He does not vary or change; God is good, all the time. I also want to thank God for giving me the opportunity to go to college and pursue a degree in Religion with a minor in Biblical Studies. I’ve been working hard and am proud to report that at the end of my first semester I have 4 A’s (the highest average being 100 and the lowest being 96.7). That is pretty cool for someone who hasn’t been to school in 44 years! So, thank you, Lord! I worship You for who You are and I praise You for the things You have done and are continuing to do in my life. As the Vicki Yohe song says, “Because of who You are I give you glory. Because of who You are I give you praise. Because of who You are, I will life my voice and say, Lord I worship You because of who You are. Jehovah Jireh, my provider; Jehovah Nissi, Lord you reign in victory; Jehovah Shalom, You’re my Prince of Peace; Lord I worship You because of who You are.”
Don’t forget to thank God today for those things He has done and continues to do in your life. Everything you have came from His hand. The prayers of his children are like sweet incense to Him. Be faithful in prayer to the One who loves you more than you will ever know.
Be blessed this day!
Candy
After spending 3 busy days and nights with Judy, I am taking a shuttle back to the Atlanta Airport and flying to Ft. Lauderdale, FL. to see my newest grandson, Raven. He was just born 8 days ago and I can hardly wait to hold him and kiss his chubby cheeks. My daughter Krys is fairly laid back so I am planning to spend a lot of time at my hotel, sunning, sleeping and doing a lot of nothing for 4 solid days! Oh, I am sure we will take in the sights, but my goal once I hit Florida is to enjoy white sand beaches and crystal clear water. That is something I have never experienced. I was born in Galveston. From pictures I have seen of other islands, Galveston beaches are the ugliest in the world! Thank goodness Ft. Lauderdale is on the Atlantic side of the state so there should be no problems from the ongoing influx of oil and is currently spewing off the coast of Louisiana. By the way, I remember getting tar all over my body and bathing suits since I was a child whenever we went to Galveston. Oil spills must be talked about more now than they were then. Just a thought . . .
I have had a very difficult couple of years with the loss of 3 jobs. Fortunately, I now have a wonderful job at NASA, but no one here knows how long our jobs will be in place. I know God is in control so I refuse to worry about losing this job. Instead I have chosen to thank God for His blessings and provision. I wanted to share this particular blog to let my friends know about my trip May 15 -22, but to also give thanks to God for allowing me to take this trip. Every good and perfect gift comes from God. He does not vary or change; God is good, all the time. I also want to thank God for giving me the opportunity to go to college and pursue a degree in Religion with a minor in Biblical Studies. I’ve been working hard and am proud to report that at the end of my first semester I have 4 A’s (the highest average being 100 and the lowest being 96.7). That is pretty cool for someone who hasn’t been to school in 44 years! So, thank you, Lord! I worship You for who You are and I praise You for the things You have done and are continuing to do in my life. As the Vicki Yohe song says, “Because of who You are I give you glory. Because of who You are I give you praise. Because of who You are, I will life my voice and say, Lord I worship You because of who You are. Jehovah Jireh, my provider; Jehovah Nissi, Lord you reign in victory; Jehovah Shalom, You’re my Prince of Peace; Lord I worship You because of who You are.”
Don’t forget to thank God today for those things He has done and continues to do in your life. Everything you have came from His hand. The prayers of his children are like sweet incense to Him. Be faithful in prayer to the One who loves you more than you will ever know.
Be blessed this day!
Candy
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Prayer - Never Pray for Bad Things to Happen
Next week, the Discussion Board question in my Theology class is: “In view of the New Testament teaching of “loving our enemy/neighbor,” discuss the role of imprecatory prayers (psalms) for today? Can we pray “against” people or things today? Take a view and defend your position (with love!) and use scripture. Discuss.” I wanted to share my answer to this question as this week’s blog.
Imprecatory prayers are those calling for punishment or calamity to fall upon one who is doing evil. The flesh within us cries out to pray against the evildoers in the world in which we live today. My flesh does not want anything good to happen to people who are involved in evil practices. In fact, my flesh wants to see them punished for their “sins.” If someone has been rude to me I want others to be rude to them. This is human nature (flesh). But praying against people and asking for punishment for them would make me no different than the Pharisees who brought the woman in adultery to Jesus and asked him to pronounce a death sentence on her for her sin. While I do believe there is punishment for sin, I must let God decide the measure of punishment and how and when it is to be administered. Many times that punishment is simply the natural consequences suffered because of the sin.
I have been instructed by the inspired Word of God to love my enemies, bless those who curse me, do good to those who hate me and pray for those who persecute me (Matthew 5:44 and Luke 6:27-36). In light of these Scriptures alone, I would be disobedient to my Lord if I failed to do just that. We all have people in our lives who have hurt us in various ways. We all know someone who we have trouble liking because of the way they act. Most of the time, this individual is not a Christian (which explains why they act the way they do). Instead of praying calamity or punishment on them, I pray for their salvation. I ask God to open their spiritual eyes and allow them to see Him at work around them and to recognize the error of their ways so they are open to repentance. I ask God to use me to bring this about. Since I know that God does not desire anyone to be condemned, I can ask these things and in confidence know that God will answer my prayers.
With regard to the evil things this person may do, I can ask God to block the effect of the act and I can ask God to stop the act from happening again. If the evildoer is a public official or leader, I do not pray for him/her to die or for horrible things to happen to their family. I pray for them to recognize God at work around them. I pray for God to lead them so they turn from their wicked ways. 2 Chron. 7:14 states, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” Note the Scripture requires God’s people to turn from their wicked ways. We all should be “fessed up” (as my East Texas pastor used to say) before God can hear our prayers and heal our land.
In situations where children are fighting you often hear a parent say, “play nice.” As Christians we should “pray nice.” That’s my opinion and I’m sticking to it!
Love on one of your enemies today. You may be amazed how they respond.
Candy
Imprecatory prayers are those calling for punishment or calamity to fall upon one who is doing evil. The flesh within us cries out to pray against the evildoers in the world in which we live today. My flesh does not want anything good to happen to people who are involved in evil practices. In fact, my flesh wants to see them punished for their “sins.” If someone has been rude to me I want others to be rude to them. This is human nature (flesh). But praying against people and asking for punishment for them would make me no different than the Pharisees who brought the woman in adultery to Jesus and asked him to pronounce a death sentence on her for her sin. While I do believe there is punishment for sin, I must let God decide the measure of punishment and how and when it is to be administered. Many times that punishment is simply the natural consequences suffered because of the sin.
I have been instructed by the inspired Word of God to love my enemies, bless those who curse me, do good to those who hate me and pray for those who persecute me (Matthew 5:44 and Luke 6:27-36). In light of these Scriptures alone, I would be disobedient to my Lord if I failed to do just that. We all have people in our lives who have hurt us in various ways. We all know someone who we have trouble liking because of the way they act. Most of the time, this individual is not a Christian (which explains why they act the way they do). Instead of praying calamity or punishment on them, I pray for their salvation. I ask God to open their spiritual eyes and allow them to see Him at work around them and to recognize the error of their ways so they are open to repentance. I ask God to use me to bring this about. Since I know that God does not desire anyone to be condemned, I can ask these things and in confidence know that God will answer my prayers.
With regard to the evil things this person may do, I can ask God to block the effect of the act and I can ask God to stop the act from happening again. If the evildoer is a public official or leader, I do not pray for him/her to die or for horrible things to happen to their family. I pray for them to recognize God at work around them. I pray for God to lead them so they turn from their wicked ways. 2 Chron. 7:14 states, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” Note the Scripture requires God’s people to turn from their wicked ways. We all should be “fessed up” (as my East Texas pastor used to say) before God can hear our prayers and heal our land.
In situations where children are fighting you often hear a parent say, “play nice.” As Christians we should “pray nice.” That’s my opinion and I’m sticking to it!
Love on one of your enemies today. You may be amazed how they respond.
Candy
Friday, April 2, 2010
GOOD FRIDAY
On Thursday night, Jesus was betrayed by one of his disciples for 30 pieces of silver; sold down the river for what amounted to the price of a slave. The Jews seized Jesus and bound him. He was first taken to the high priest, Caiaphas, who questioned him, asking if he was the Messiah. Jesus did not answer the question directly, but allowed his interrogators to conclude that he had said yes. He did not respond to other questions. His silence infuriated them. From the priests’ point of view, Jesus had caused enough trouble for the Council of Priests. Had he not chased the moneychangers out of the Temple? His heretic teachings must cease. Witnesses were brought forth to testify that Jesus said he would tear down the Temple and rebuild it in 3 days. This amounted to a blasphemous statement because the Temple was the most holy of structure in all of Jerusalem. The witnesses contradicted each other and could not get their stories straight. Jesus remained silent throughout this proceeding. Caiaphas was angered to the point that he tore his clothes in frustration and pronounced Jesus a heretic. With the consent of his fellow priests, he sentenced Jesus to death.
The following day, the Council of High Priests met again. They viewed Jesus as a threat to their power so they were determined to rid themselves of him. The decision was made to take Jesus to the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate. Jews were not allowed to carry out capital punishment without confirmation from the Roman governor. They thought Pilate would have no reluctance to use his power to deliver the death sentence they sought. Pilate examined Jesus and asked him if he was the King of the Jews. Jesus simply responded, “You say that I am.” Pilot was puzzled by Jesus and told the assembled throng of people he could not find fault with him. The crowd was furious and called for the crucifixion of Jesus. Since it was Passover, Pilate reminded the crowd that he could release a prisoner of their choice. The answer was not what Pilate expected. The crowd called for the release of Barabbas, a murderer. Pilate, still not convinced Jesus must die, had him taken away and whipped, hoping this action would satisfy the crowd. After the beating, Pilate presented a beaten Jesus to the crowd, but they continued to call for his crucifixion. With a threat to the order of his Roman rule, Pilate stood facing this angry, unruly crowd. Bowing to the pressure of the crowd, and wanting to keep the peace, Pilate sent Jesus off to be executed, telling the Jews that he washed his hands of the entire matter. Because Jesus was a threat to their religious authority, the Jews took responsibility for what was about to occur.
Here it is, Good Friday; the Friday before Easter Sunday. Many people are off work today, taking a holiday. But, this was not a good day for Jesus. Jesus was crucified on that Friday. After three hours on the cross, Jesus died. His body was placed in a borrowed tomb, wrapped with grave linens and 75 pounds of ointment. Praise God that the story does not end there. Jesus did not stay in the tomb, but rose from the dead. He is still alive today!
I share this particular blog today to remind you of the sacrifice Jesus made. Neither you nor I have any idea of the physical pain involved in crucifixion. What a horrible way to died. It amounts to torture. And we must not forget about the beatings Jesus endured during his trials. Jesus wasn’t crucified because he did anything wrong; far from it. Jesus upset the status quo and threatened the position of the religious leaders. Jesus was crucified because of their fear. A lot of people are not willing to let God into their lives because of fear. They fear many things – the unknown, losing control, missing out on fun, being different. Satan is the author of fear. If you will refuse to allow Satan to scare you away, Jesus will give you the sweetest life you can ever imagine having; a life full of peace and contentment, even in times of strife and trouble. Christians are not promised a problem-free life. Better yet, we are promised a God who will never leave us or forsake us.
Before you bite off the ears on the chocolate bunny this year, stop and think that Easter is not about bunnies or chocolate at all. Easter is about new life. You can have a new life, an everlasting life, if you will simply trust in the Jesus whose sacrifice and life we celebrate this weekend.
I hope you know how very much God loves YOU!!
Candy
The following day, the Council of High Priests met again. They viewed Jesus as a threat to their power so they were determined to rid themselves of him. The decision was made to take Jesus to the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate. Jews were not allowed to carry out capital punishment without confirmation from the Roman governor. They thought Pilate would have no reluctance to use his power to deliver the death sentence they sought. Pilate examined Jesus and asked him if he was the King of the Jews. Jesus simply responded, “You say that I am.” Pilot was puzzled by Jesus and told the assembled throng of people he could not find fault with him. The crowd was furious and called for the crucifixion of Jesus. Since it was Passover, Pilate reminded the crowd that he could release a prisoner of their choice. The answer was not what Pilate expected. The crowd called for the release of Barabbas, a murderer. Pilate, still not convinced Jesus must die, had him taken away and whipped, hoping this action would satisfy the crowd. After the beating, Pilate presented a beaten Jesus to the crowd, but they continued to call for his crucifixion. With a threat to the order of his Roman rule, Pilate stood facing this angry, unruly crowd. Bowing to the pressure of the crowd, and wanting to keep the peace, Pilate sent Jesus off to be executed, telling the Jews that he washed his hands of the entire matter. Because Jesus was a threat to their religious authority, the Jews took responsibility for what was about to occur.
Here it is, Good Friday; the Friday before Easter Sunday. Many people are off work today, taking a holiday. But, this was not a good day for Jesus. Jesus was crucified on that Friday. After three hours on the cross, Jesus died. His body was placed in a borrowed tomb, wrapped with grave linens and 75 pounds of ointment. Praise God that the story does not end there. Jesus did not stay in the tomb, but rose from the dead. He is still alive today!
I share this particular blog today to remind you of the sacrifice Jesus made. Neither you nor I have any idea of the physical pain involved in crucifixion. What a horrible way to died. It amounts to torture. And we must not forget about the beatings Jesus endured during his trials. Jesus wasn’t crucified because he did anything wrong; far from it. Jesus upset the status quo and threatened the position of the religious leaders. Jesus was crucified because of their fear. A lot of people are not willing to let God into their lives because of fear. They fear many things – the unknown, losing control, missing out on fun, being different. Satan is the author of fear. If you will refuse to allow Satan to scare you away, Jesus will give you the sweetest life you can ever imagine having; a life full of peace and contentment, even in times of strife and trouble. Christians are not promised a problem-free life. Better yet, we are promised a God who will never leave us or forsake us.
Before you bite off the ears on the chocolate bunny this year, stop and think that Easter is not about bunnies or chocolate at all. Easter is about new life. You can have a new life, an everlasting life, if you will simply trust in the Jesus whose sacrifice and life we celebrate this weekend.
I hope you know how very much God loves YOU!!
Candy
Thursday, March 25, 2010
God's Gracious Gift
Jesus was at the Mt. of Olives, teaching people at the temple courts. The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought a woman accused of adultery to Jesus. "Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. In the law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?" The response of Jesus to this self-righteous group made them turn on their heels. "If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." Upon hearing this and with no way to respond, the teachers and Pharisees began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. Jesus asked her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?" "No one, sir," she said. "Then neither do I condemn you," Jesus declared. "Go now and leave your life of sin." (John 8:1-11)
Yes, this woman had sinned, but all her accusers wanted to do was punish her; they offered no forgiveness. But Jesus had a different agenda, one that the Pharisees were not ready to believe. Who was this man? A Prophet? The Messiah (as He claimed)? How could a Messiah come from Galilee they wondered? Wasn’t Galilee inhabited by Gentiles? Scripture foretold the Messiah would come from Bethlehem, not Galilee. If the Jews had taken any time to check out this self-professed Messiah, they would have learned he was born in Bethlehem and was from the lineage of David. When Nicodemus tried to intervene on behalf of Jesus, he asked them, “Does our law judge a man without first giving him a hearing and learning what he does?” They replied, “Are you from Galilee too? Search and see that no prophet arises from Galilee.” John 7:50-52. Sometimes people are just stubborn; too stubborn to see the truth.
Jesus came to seek and to save those who are lost. His love is redemptive, not accusatory. He came to make us whole, not tear us apart. Jesus is life, not death. He promises abundant life to all who believe in Him. The woman who had faced a certain and painful death by stoning had been set free. She was not only set free from her accusers, she was set free from the bondage of sin in her life. Do you see how each of our lives is like the life of this woman? Every one of us has sin in our lives. Scripture tells us in Romans 10:9 that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. We can’t help sinning; we were born with a sin nature. You do not have to teach a young child to disobey, it comes automatically to him. My little granddaughter Gwendolyn has been taught correct behavior, yet there are times that she balks and responds with a defiant, “No!” when asked to do something she doesn’t want to do. Her little face scrunches into a frown and she looks angry. Jon and Melissa did not teach her to say “no” or to be mad or to pout, but she does it anyway. Original sin began with Eve and Adam in the Garden of Eden and is part of all of our lives. God provided a way for our sins to be covered by sending a perfect sacrifice to earth. He sent his only Son, Jesus Christ, to die for you. Even if you were the only person in need of a Savior, God loves you so much He still would have given Jesus, just for you. When Gwendolyn reaches the age of understanding, she will be offered the same gift Jesus offered the woman caught in adultery. This gift is the gift of salvation and eternal life through Him.
A gift is just that – a gift. It has to be received before it is a gift. If you refuse the gift, it will never belong to you. Becoming a Christian requires no good works on your behalf. Jesus wants you just as you are. You don’t have to quit any bad habits or change any behaviors to come to Christ. All you have to do is believe He is the Son of God and that He lived on this earth, was beaten and crucified on a cross, and that 3 days later he arose from the dead. When you pray, asking Jesus to forgive your sins (past, present and future) and to become Lord of your life, you are adopted into His family and become one of God’s children. We are all God’s creation, but none of us is a child of God until we are adopted. It’s really very easy, but sometimes we make the easiest of things difficult because we over-analyze. You have to come by faith in order to receive the gift Jesus has for you.
As Easter Season quickly approaches, I hope you will reflect on what Jesus did for you. If you have never accepted His free gift you can do that right now. He’s right where you are and He is waiting for you. He holds the gift in His hand. Won’t you accept it today?
Yes, this woman had sinned, but all her accusers wanted to do was punish her; they offered no forgiveness. But Jesus had a different agenda, one that the Pharisees were not ready to believe. Who was this man? A Prophet? The Messiah (as He claimed)? How could a Messiah come from Galilee they wondered? Wasn’t Galilee inhabited by Gentiles? Scripture foretold the Messiah would come from Bethlehem, not Galilee. If the Jews had taken any time to check out this self-professed Messiah, they would have learned he was born in Bethlehem and was from the lineage of David. When Nicodemus tried to intervene on behalf of Jesus, he asked them, “Does our law judge a man without first giving him a hearing and learning what he does?” They replied, “Are you from Galilee too? Search and see that no prophet arises from Galilee.” John 7:50-52. Sometimes people are just stubborn; too stubborn to see the truth.
Jesus came to seek and to save those who are lost. His love is redemptive, not accusatory. He came to make us whole, not tear us apart. Jesus is life, not death. He promises abundant life to all who believe in Him. The woman who had faced a certain and painful death by stoning had been set free. She was not only set free from her accusers, she was set free from the bondage of sin in her life. Do you see how each of our lives is like the life of this woman? Every one of us has sin in our lives. Scripture tells us in Romans 10:9 that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. We can’t help sinning; we were born with a sin nature. You do not have to teach a young child to disobey, it comes automatically to him. My little granddaughter Gwendolyn has been taught correct behavior, yet there are times that she balks and responds with a defiant, “No!” when asked to do something she doesn’t want to do. Her little face scrunches into a frown and she looks angry. Jon and Melissa did not teach her to say “no” or to be mad or to pout, but she does it anyway. Original sin began with Eve and Adam in the Garden of Eden and is part of all of our lives. God provided a way for our sins to be covered by sending a perfect sacrifice to earth. He sent his only Son, Jesus Christ, to die for you. Even if you were the only person in need of a Savior, God loves you so much He still would have given Jesus, just for you. When Gwendolyn reaches the age of understanding, she will be offered the same gift Jesus offered the woman caught in adultery. This gift is the gift of salvation and eternal life through Him.
A gift is just that – a gift. It has to be received before it is a gift. If you refuse the gift, it will never belong to you. Becoming a Christian requires no good works on your behalf. Jesus wants you just as you are. You don’t have to quit any bad habits or change any behaviors to come to Christ. All you have to do is believe He is the Son of God and that He lived on this earth, was beaten and crucified on a cross, and that 3 days later he arose from the dead. When you pray, asking Jesus to forgive your sins (past, present and future) and to become Lord of your life, you are adopted into His family and become one of God’s children. We are all God’s creation, but none of us is a child of God until we are adopted. It’s really very easy, but sometimes we make the easiest of things difficult because we over-analyze. You have to come by faith in order to receive the gift Jesus has for you.
As Easter Season quickly approaches, I hope you will reflect on what Jesus did for you. If you have never accepted His free gift you can do that right now. He’s right where you are and He is waiting for you. He holds the gift in His hand. Won’t you accept it today?
Friday, March 19, 2010
The Best Bargain of Your Life
I was shopping at Burke’s Outlet last week and couldn’t resist getting Paisley a yellow and white sundress with ducks appliquéd on the bottom. It is getting close to Easter and the weather is warmer. I could picture her dark hair and eyes and her olive complexion against the crisp yellow and white dress and I knew she had to have it. We women are great shoppers. We always justify our purchases and this one was justified because she needed an Easter dress and Burke’s is an outlet store so the price was great. I love to find bargains. Probably the best bargain is something for free; don’t you agree? I do love those buy one, get one (BOGO) sales.
But the best deal I ever got never cost me a bit of money. I was 9 years old in the summer of 1959. I was attending GA (Girls Auxiliary) camp at a Baptist Encampment called Peach Creek, in New Waverly, Texas. I had a great week at camp. We hiked, swam, played games, had chapel services and got to shop for goodies at the camp store. All in all I would have the say the week was grand. On Thursday evening, at the final chapel service of the day, my heart was touched by the missionary who was speaking. I wish I could remember his name. He was a foreign missionary to Africa who was home on furlough. I believe his wife was a nurse. I knew for the first time in my life that I was a sinner in need of a Savior. When the invitation song started, I was one of the first to walk toward the preacher and tell him that I wanted to accept Christ as my Savior. I remember him sitting with me on the front row and explaining to me the plan of salvation. He went through Scriptures found in the book of Romans. Baptists commonly refer to these as the “Romans Road.” I’ve written them here for you.
We must realize that we are sinners and that we need forgiveness.
Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God.”
God gave us the way to be forgiven of our sins.
Romans 5:8: “But God demonstrates His love toward us, in that, while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
If we remain sinners, we will die. However, if we repent of our sins, and accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we will have eternal life.
Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Confess that Jesus Christ is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead and you are saved.
Romans 10:9-10: “That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”
Just call upon the name of the Lord and you will be saved!
Romans 10:13: “For whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved.”
Determine in your heart to make Jesus Christ the Lord of your life today.
Romans 11:36: "For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to who be glory forever. Amen."
After sharing these verses with me and being absolutely sure I understood them, the missionary preacher asked me to repeat a prayer after him. I don’t remember the exact words, but it was something like this:
“Father, I know that I have broken your laws and my sins have separated me from you. I am truly sorry, and now I want to turn away from my past sinful life toward you. Please forgive me, and help me avoid sinning again. I believe that your son, Jesus Christ died for my sins, was resurrected from the dead, is alive, and hears my prayer. I invite Jesus to become the Lord of my life, to rule and reign in my heart from this day forward. Please send your Holy Spirit to help me obey You, and to do Your will for the rest of my life. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.”
With that prayer my life was changed forever. I was so interested in mission work that I decided I would be a missionary nurse in Africa. I collected information on nursing school for several years and studied life in Africa. But as I grew older and realized I have an extremely weak stomach, I did not attend nursing school. In fact, I would never in a million years want to be a nurse. But God, I His mercy, continues to give me a mission field wherever I live and work. Did I lead a perfect and sinless life after I accepted Christ? Of course not and actually, far from it. I struggled as a teen and young adult with sin, mistakes and poor judgment because I failed to attend church and spend time in prayer and Bible Study. I was like an unguided missile on a path to destruction. But God guided me back to Him and I can say that for the last 26 years I have stayed on that track and enjoyed the blessings of God on my life and the lives of my children. If after all I have done wrong in my life God can still use me to shine His light on the world, He can use anyone.
If you have never had a time in your life when you accepted the free gift of salvation, why not do it today? Jesus is just waiting on you. It is not enough to just know about Jesus in your head and to say you believe in him. Even the devil and his demons believe Jesus is real. You must repent (turn away) from your sins and ask Jesus to be Lord of your life. That part is what the devil and his little imps will never do. It’s a free gift, but the gift can only be yours if you accept it.
April 4 is Easter. Wouldn’t it be great to celebrate the real reason for Easter instead of baskets, bunnies and eggs? Easter is the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. This year Easter can be a celebration of your resurrection from your dead life into eternal life in Christ. It is the best bargain you will ever find.
Much love – go with God!
Candy
But the best deal I ever got never cost me a bit of money. I was 9 years old in the summer of 1959. I was attending GA (Girls Auxiliary) camp at a Baptist Encampment called Peach Creek, in New Waverly, Texas. I had a great week at camp. We hiked, swam, played games, had chapel services and got to shop for goodies at the camp store. All in all I would have the say the week was grand. On Thursday evening, at the final chapel service of the day, my heart was touched by the missionary who was speaking. I wish I could remember his name. He was a foreign missionary to Africa who was home on furlough. I believe his wife was a nurse. I knew for the first time in my life that I was a sinner in need of a Savior. When the invitation song started, I was one of the first to walk toward the preacher and tell him that I wanted to accept Christ as my Savior. I remember him sitting with me on the front row and explaining to me the plan of salvation. He went through Scriptures found in the book of Romans. Baptists commonly refer to these as the “Romans Road.” I’ve written them here for you.
We must realize that we are sinners and that we need forgiveness.
Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God.”
God gave us the way to be forgiven of our sins.
Romans 5:8: “But God demonstrates His love toward us, in that, while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
If we remain sinners, we will die. However, if we repent of our sins, and accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we will have eternal life.
Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Confess that Jesus Christ is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead and you are saved.
Romans 10:9-10: “That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”
Just call upon the name of the Lord and you will be saved!
Romans 10:13: “For whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved.”
Determine in your heart to make Jesus Christ the Lord of your life today.
Romans 11:36: "For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to who be glory forever. Amen."
After sharing these verses with me and being absolutely sure I understood them, the missionary preacher asked me to repeat a prayer after him. I don’t remember the exact words, but it was something like this:
“Father, I know that I have broken your laws and my sins have separated me from you. I am truly sorry, and now I want to turn away from my past sinful life toward you. Please forgive me, and help me avoid sinning again. I believe that your son, Jesus Christ died for my sins, was resurrected from the dead, is alive, and hears my prayer. I invite Jesus to become the Lord of my life, to rule and reign in my heart from this day forward. Please send your Holy Spirit to help me obey You, and to do Your will for the rest of my life. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.”
With that prayer my life was changed forever. I was so interested in mission work that I decided I would be a missionary nurse in Africa. I collected information on nursing school for several years and studied life in Africa. But as I grew older and realized I have an extremely weak stomach, I did not attend nursing school. In fact, I would never in a million years want to be a nurse. But God, I His mercy, continues to give me a mission field wherever I live and work. Did I lead a perfect and sinless life after I accepted Christ? Of course not and actually, far from it. I struggled as a teen and young adult with sin, mistakes and poor judgment because I failed to attend church and spend time in prayer and Bible Study. I was like an unguided missile on a path to destruction. But God guided me back to Him and I can say that for the last 26 years I have stayed on that track and enjoyed the blessings of God on my life and the lives of my children. If after all I have done wrong in my life God can still use me to shine His light on the world, He can use anyone.
If you have never had a time in your life when you accepted the free gift of salvation, why not do it today? Jesus is just waiting on you. It is not enough to just know about Jesus in your head and to say you believe in him. Even the devil and his demons believe Jesus is real. You must repent (turn away) from your sins and ask Jesus to be Lord of your life. That part is what the devil and his little imps will never do. It’s a free gift, but the gift can only be yours if you accept it.
April 4 is Easter. Wouldn’t it be great to celebrate the real reason for Easter instead of baskets, bunnies and eggs? Easter is the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. This year Easter can be a celebration of your resurrection from your dead life into eternal life in Christ. It is the best bargain you will ever find.
Much love – go with God!
Candy
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Fearfully and Wonderfully Made
Psalm 139:14 declares, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” David was talking to God. Even in the time in which he lived, David knew he was a marvelous creation of God and acknowledged his Creator. Without modern science to tell him that his body was complex and unique, David still recognized that fact. I wonder if David ever thought about how many things he could do at one time? Things like breathing, the beating of his heart, walking, standing, sitting, swallowing, scratching an itch, each accomplished without giving any thought. We humans can unconsciously do all these things while our brain is concentrating on yet another task. The brain tells us when we need to sneeze, when we are hungry, cold, hot, tired, happy or sad; it holds our intellect and our ability to reason and make decisions. The brain is indeed an amazing creation of God.
We are so fearfully and wonderfully made that God even numbered the hairs on our heads. “Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” (Luke 12:7a). An average person has about 100,000 hairs on their scalp. Redheads have 90,000 while blondes have 140,000; brunettes fall in between. Most people shed 50-100 hairs a day. I think my daughters lost 300 a day. Since I had 4 daughters, hair was always all over the bathroom! As much as we love our children and grandchildren, I wonder if any of us has actually taken the time to count the hairs on their heads. Yet when God created you, he numbered each and every hair. His love far outweighs the love of any earthly parent. You may believe no one could ever love your child more than you do, but God does. Another thing about humans is that each has a unique set of fingerprints; no two people have the same. Your DNA is unique to you. God created you to be you and no one else. That’s how much He loves you and how intimately He knows you.
After God created you, He didn’t forget about you. He continues to want the best for you and care about you. Isaiah 49:16 tells us we are engraved on the palms of His hands. In ancient times when sons went off to war, mothers did not have cameras to take a picture of their sons to remember them. There was no fireplace mantel full of framed pictures evoking memories. The mother would write the name of her son on the palms of her hands so that as she worked during the day she would see his name and be reminded to pray for his wellbeing. God doesn’t just have your name on the palms of His hands. He has your circumstances, your achievements, your goals, your hurts, your rejoicings, your pain. Your very life is in His hands. Just writing this makes me teary-eyed thinking about how much God loves me. In God’s eyes I am not insignificant, but important. He created me and He doesn’t make junk or mistakes. He has a plan for my life and yours. It is His promise. “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you." Jeremiah 29:11-13.
I want to remind those who have forgotten and to tell those who do not know how much care God took in creating your life. You are an individual, with special talents, who God created to live in this time in history, to fulfill His purpose for you. If you want to know more about who God created you to be and how much He loves you, start by reading Psalm 139. If you don’t have a Bible handy, google it and you will find a host of websites which will contain any Scripture you want to read in a variety of translations. Take heart friend, God loves you more than any earthly person ever could. He wants only the best for you. He created you for a purpose only you can fulfill.
Have a blessed day!
Candy
We are so fearfully and wonderfully made that God even numbered the hairs on our heads. “Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” (Luke 12:7a). An average person has about 100,000 hairs on their scalp. Redheads have 90,000 while blondes have 140,000; brunettes fall in between. Most people shed 50-100 hairs a day. I think my daughters lost 300 a day. Since I had 4 daughters, hair was always all over the bathroom! As much as we love our children and grandchildren, I wonder if any of us has actually taken the time to count the hairs on their heads. Yet when God created you, he numbered each and every hair. His love far outweighs the love of any earthly parent. You may believe no one could ever love your child more than you do, but God does. Another thing about humans is that each has a unique set of fingerprints; no two people have the same. Your DNA is unique to you. God created you to be you and no one else. That’s how much He loves you and how intimately He knows you.
After God created you, He didn’t forget about you. He continues to want the best for you and care about you. Isaiah 49:16 tells us we are engraved on the palms of His hands. In ancient times when sons went off to war, mothers did not have cameras to take a picture of their sons to remember them. There was no fireplace mantel full of framed pictures evoking memories. The mother would write the name of her son on the palms of her hands so that as she worked during the day she would see his name and be reminded to pray for his wellbeing. God doesn’t just have your name on the palms of His hands. He has your circumstances, your achievements, your goals, your hurts, your rejoicings, your pain. Your very life is in His hands. Just writing this makes me teary-eyed thinking about how much God loves me. In God’s eyes I am not insignificant, but important. He created me and He doesn’t make junk or mistakes. He has a plan for my life and yours. It is His promise. “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you." Jeremiah 29:11-13.
I want to remind those who have forgotten and to tell those who do not know how much care God took in creating your life. You are an individual, with special talents, who God created to live in this time in history, to fulfill His purpose for you. If you want to know more about who God created you to be and how much He loves you, start by reading Psalm 139. If you don’t have a Bible handy, google it and you will find a host of websites which will contain any Scripture you want to read in a variety of translations. Take heart friend, God loves you more than any earthly person ever could. He wants only the best for you. He created you for a purpose only you can fulfill.
Have a blessed day!
Candy
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Caught in the Undertow?
The chill factor today is 37. Since our weather has been cold and dreary lately, I decided to share something I wrote a couple of years ago while on my way to Galveston, Texas, when the temperature was hitting a high of 100 degrees. At least I felt warm editing this article for my blog.
The beach is a wonderful place to have fun. There’s an excitement surrounding your arrival as you first step onto the sandy shore. Anticipation builds as you remove items from your car in preparation of the fun that lies ahead. It can be hot outside, but the sea water feels cool to your toes as you wade into the surf. Wading a little deeper, you can begin to feel the pull of the current. Once you are waist deep in the water, your body finds it difficult to resist the current’s tugging, but you still have a good measure of control. At chest level, the battle between you and the surf is raging and if you continue to go even deeper, you will lose all control unless you are a strong swimmer. Even if that is the case, it will be a struggle to stay afloat. The waves are powerful and knock you off your feet. Laughing and enjoying the rush of the unexpected tumble, you quickly scramble to regain your footing when another wave hits you square in the face. You are gasping for breath, having swallowed a considerable amount of salt water which is setting your sinuses on fire. Here comes another wave and then the sea becomes calm, almost serene. As you look out to sea, you can see that the waves will soon be hitting you again and you must decide whether to take advantage of the current calmness to escape or to catch your breath and get ready for more assaults from the angry waves.
At times we all are tempted to do something we know we should not do and we wade into sin. We think we can just “test the waters” and put our toes in a little. We get accustomed to the sin and wade in a little deeper as sin pulls us. This isn’t too bad, so we go a little farther and a little deeper into the sin. Suddenly, we find we are being pulled deeper into the sin and it becomes difficult to resist the current that sways us. The power of sin becomes greater than our willpower. We find we have lost all control and are not strong enough to escape the stronghold.
There are lifeguards at the beach to safeguard swimmers and to save lives. They accomplish this at times by issuing a warning with their whistle if you get too close to danger. They use a whistle because a voice cannot be heard over the roar of the waves. The warning can be issued, but it is up to the swimmer to heed the warning. If a swimmer gets too far from shore, even the whistle cannot be heard. We all have lifeguards in our lives – our pastor, teacher, friends and family – who in love issue warnings to help direct our paths. God has issued warnings and instructions in Scripture to direct our paths. If you don’t have a time daily to study the Word, you may find yourself drifting too far from shore and unable to hear or unwilling to heed the warnings.
While swimming at the beach you have fun jumping waves and enjoying the water and sunshine. You turn to wave to your friends who remained on the shore and suddenly realize they are gone. The umbrella is gone, the lawn chairs are gone, the ice chest, blanket, towels – everything and everyone is gone! Panic hits and you continue to scan the shoreline. You look for your car; it’s nowhere in sight. Everything around you looks foreign, unfamiliar. Then you realize you are the one who has moved. The undertow has pulled you down the shore several hundred yards without you even taking notice. In the distance you can barely see your family and friends. You are amazed you got this far away from them. Anxious to get back, you begin to walk in the water, pushing your weight against the undertow. You try to move quickly, but meet heavy resistance. You are no match for the force of the water against your body. You can continue, but decide to get out of the water and walk on the sand. Now you can reach your destination quicker, with much less effort. Your family and friends welcome you as they could not find you and were worried about where you were.
When we allow ourselves to get involved in sin, we put distance between us and God and between us and those we love. There is an old saying, “Sin will take your father than you ever wanted to go.” Just like the undertow in the ocean, sin pulls you away from friends, family and God. A holy God cannot look upon sin. As long as sin continues and there is no repentance, the distance remains and the fellowship is broken. But there is good news! We have a lifeguard, a lifesaver, Jesus Christ, who gave His life so that we might have abundant life here on earth and eternal life in heaven. If you have ventured too far from shore, why not get out of the water and run back to Jesus? It is never too late. If you’ve never met this Savior, there is no better time than right now! He is waiting on you! John 3:16.
Remember, His mercies are new every morning – go live life to the fullest this week! God Bless.
Candy
The beach is a wonderful place to have fun. There’s an excitement surrounding your arrival as you first step onto the sandy shore. Anticipation builds as you remove items from your car in preparation of the fun that lies ahead. It can be hot outside, but the sea water feels cool to your toes as you wade into the surf. Wading a little deeper, you can begin to feel the pull of the current. Once you are waist deep in the water, your body finds it difficult to resist the current’s tugging, but you still have a good measure of control. At chest level, the battle between you and the surf is raging and if you continue to go even deeper, you will lose all control unless you are a strong swimmer. Even if that is the case, it will be a struggle to stay afloat. The waves are powerful and knock you off your feet. Laughing and enjoying the rush of the unexpected tumble, you quickly scramble to regain your footing when another wave hits you square in the face. You are gasping for breath, having swallowed a considerable amount of salt water which is setting your sinuses on fire. Here comes another wave and then the sea becomes calm, almost serene. As you look out to sea, you can see that the waves will soon be hitting you again and you must decide whether to take advantage of the current calmness to escape or to catch your breath and get ready for more assaults from the angry waves.
At times we all are tempted to do something we know we should not do and we wade into sin. We think we can just “test the waters” and put our toes in a little. We get accustomed to the sin and wade in a little deeper as sin pulls us. This isn’t too bad, so we go a little farther and a little deeper into the sin. Suddenly, we find we are being pulled deeper into the sin and it becomes difficult to resist the current that sways us. The power of sin becomes greater than our willpower. We find we have lost all control and are not strong enough to escape the stronghold.
There are lifeguards at the beach to safeguard swimmers and to save lives. They accomplish this at times by issuing a warning with their whistle if you get too close to danger. They use a whistle because a voice cannot be heard over the roar of the waves. The warning can be issued, but it is up to the swimmer to heed the warning. If a swimmer gets too far from shore, even the whistle cannot be heard. We all have lifeguards in our lives – our pastor, teacher, friends and family – who in love issue warnings to help direct our paths. God has issued warnings and instructions in Scripture to direct our paths. If you don’t have a time daily to study the Word, you may find yourself drifting too far from shore and unable to hear or unwilling to heed the warnings.
While swimming at the beach you have fun jumping waves and enjoying the water and sunshine. You turn to wave to your friends who remained on the shore and suddenly realize they are gone. The umbrella is gone, the lawn chairs are gone, the ice chest, blanket, towels – everything and everyone is gone! Panic hits and you continue to scan the shoreline. You look for your car; it’s nowhere in sight. Everything around you looks foreign, unfamiliar. Then you realize you are the one who has moved. The undertow has pulled you down the shore several hundred yards without you even taking notice. In the distance you can barely see your family and friends. You are amazed you got this far away from them. Anxious to get back, you begin to walk in the water, pushing your weight against the undertow. You try to move quickly, but meet heavy resistance. You are no match for the force of the water against your body. You can continue, but decide to get out of the water and walk on the sand. Now you can reach your destination quicker, with much less effort. Your family and friends welcome you as they could not find you and were worried about where you were.
When we allow ourselves to get involved in sin, we put distance between us and God and between us and those we love. There is an old saying, “Sin will take your father than you ever wanted to go.” Just like the undertow in the ocean, sin pulls you away from friends, family and God. A holy God cannot look upon sin. As long as sin continues and there is no repentance, the distance remains and the fellowship is broken. But there is good news! We have a lifeguard, a lifesaver, Jesus Christ, who gave His life so that we might have abundant life here on earth and eternal life in heaven. If you have ventured too far from shore, why not get out of the water and run back to Jesus? It is never too late. If you’ve never met this Savior, there is no better time than right now! He is waiting on you! John 3:16.
Remember, His mercies are new every morning – go live life to the fullest this week! God Bless.
Candy
Friday, January 29, 2010
More Than You Can Handle
I am sure you have heard a preacher, teacher or friend make the following statement when trying to encourage you through a hard time: "God will never give you more than you can handle." Do you know that this is not Scriptural? This statement does not appear in the Bible. I think this cliche came about when people took
1 Corinthians 10:13 out of context. (Sort of like when people think "Cleanliness is next to godliness" is found in the Bible.)The NIV translation of 1 corinthians 10:13 states, "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it." This is not a difficult Scripture to understand; it is very straightforward. It quite simply states that there will be no temptation which is so great that we cannot stand against it. Why? Because God will provide a way out, so that we can stand up under the temptation. It also states that any temptation you face will not be different from what other individuals may face in their own lives.
I believe God wants us to face situations that are too difficult for us to handle. For if we could handle every situation and nothing was too hard for us, why would we need God? Think about it for a few moments. When do you most earnestly seek God? When are you desperate for Him in your life? Isn't it always when you are facing a crisis and know not what to do? Isn't it when you get a bad diagnosis from the doctor, or your child is involved with drugs or alcohol, or you are facing marital problems? We have a tendency to look more intently and earnestly toward God when we need Him. That is our nature. God wants us to communicate with Him, to recognize our need for Him. After all, how would we know we needed a Savior if we could do everything for ourselves. Surely, we cannot provide our own salvation!
God knew we would face situations we could not handle and He gave us Scripture for those times, as well. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong." Paul (disciple of Christ) was speaking here of his strength being present when He allowed Christ's power to rest on him.
The next time someone quotes that cliche, you will have a Biblical basis to correct the statment (in love, of course). When we go through times where our weakness is evident, what a joy to the soul to know that is when Christ's strength is perfect.
Have a great day and remember - God's mercies are new every morning!
Candy
1 Corinthians 10:13 out of context. (Sort of like when people think "Cleanliness is next to godliness" is found in the Bible.)The NIV translation of 1 corinthians 10:13 states, "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it." This is not a difficult Scripture to understand; it is very straightforward. It quite simply states that there will be no temptation which is so great that we cannot stand against it. Why? Because God will provide a way out, so that we can stand up under the temptation. It also states that any temptation you face will not be different from what other individuals may face in their own lives.
I believe God wants us to face situations that are too difficult for us to handle. For if we could handle every situation and nothing was too hard for us, why would we need God? Think about it for a few moments. When do you most earnestly seek God? When are you desperate for Him in your life? Isn't it always when you are facing a crisis and know not what to do? Isn't it when you get a bad diagnosis from the doctor, or your child is involved with drugs or alcohol, or you are facing marital problems? We have a tendency to look more intently and earnestly toward God when we need Him. That is our nature. God wants us to communicate with Him, to recognize our need for Him. After all, how would we know we needed a Savior if we could do everything for ourselves. Surely, we cannot provide our own salvation!
God knew we would face situations we could not handle and He gave us Scripture for those times, as well. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong." Paul (disciple of Christ) was speaking here of his strength being present when He allowed Christ's power to rest on him.
The next time someone quotes that cliche, you will have a Biblical basis to correct the statment (in love, of course). When we go through times where our weakness is evident, what a joy to the soul to know that is when Christ's strength is perfect.
Have a great day and remember - God's mercies are new every morning!
Candy
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Welcome friends
Hi, and welcome to my new Blog, "New Every Morning." The name of my Blog comes from the Word of God, specifically the Book of Lamentations, chapter 3. This Scripture reference speaks of God's mercies being new every morning. No matter what yesterday held, you can begin each day with a renewed supply of God's grace and mercy to see you through.
The purpose of this Blog is to encourage the reader to trust in God no matter what happens. I want everyone to learn, as I have, that God has made a provision for any circumstance. He is so good, but we miss out on what He is doing because we get busy and fail to see Him working in our lives and the lives of those around us. I will be posting weekly, using examples from the Bible and from my own life, to illustrate God in action. You won't want to miss a single posting. I promise they will be exciting and well worth your time to read. My prayer is that you take to heart each one and apply the spiritual truth to your own life. Live it out, don't let it die!
Thanks for stopping by. Look for the first post in a couple of days.
Candy Jones
The purpose of this Blog is to encourage the reader to trust in God no matter what happens. I want everyone to learn, as I have, that God has made a provision for any circumstance. He is so good, but we miss out on what He is doing because we get busy and fail to see Him working in our lives and the lives of those around us. I will be posting weekly, using examples from the Bible and from my own life, to illustrate God in action. You won't want to miss a single posting. I promise they will be exciting and well worth your time to read. My prayer is that you take to heart each one and apply the spiritual truth to your own life. Live it out, don't let it die!
Thanks for stopping by. Look for the first post in a couple of days.
Candy Jones
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