It started with the book The Shape of Mercy and the main character assuming that someone was hired help by the way he was dressed when he was actually a friend of the family. The book is about the Salem Witch Trials and all of the horrible assumptions there.
Next I hear it. You’ve heard it and maybe even said it before. “Well, you know how those people are.” Oh, really? Do I? I literally shake my head and say, no…no I do not.
Assumptions are nasty things. With the exception of when your son calls and says something like “Do you know I have the most beautiful Mom in the entire world?” By all means, assume he wants something and reply with “No, tell me how beautiful she really is.” And then smile and sit back and take in the wonderful words that are being said about you at that very moment.
If it’s not this situation, then assuming can be very harmful, dangerous and just plain wrong. I honestly try and not assume things about people based on where they live, how they dress, what size they are or what kind of vehicle they drive. When I meet someone, I immediately start looking at how their heart sees things. I want to see things through their eyes, but again, I do not assume to know or understand how or why they see things the way they do. I try to live by this and make it a rule. I don’t assume things about people based on surroundings.
Many people assume that just because someone says they are a Christian that they truly are. Unfortunately many people speak the language, but don’t walk the talk and this is very misleading. Others think that if a non-believer asks questions that they simply want to debate. Again, this is not always a correct assumption. Many people that ask questions are simply seeking the truth and shame on us for not giving it without assuming they want an argument.
I could go on and on here. So many assumptions are made about people based on their size, place of employment and such. Why do we do this? Why do we assume things without taking the time to see things through the eyes of others or even try to understand where people are coming from?
We've all had our moments where things were better, where we looked better, felt better, dressed better. We’ve all had moments where we were proud to be who we are and held our head high. The opposite is true, we’ve all had our moments where the worst part of our being has shown through and we’d love to take it back and undo the damage we’ve done, but we can’t. We would love to go back in time and change many moments in our life that were less than pleasant. All of these moments are shared by each and every one of us and yet we still make horrible assumptions.
Have you caught yourself assuming the worst about people or even the best about people? Do you assume that what you see at first glance is all that there is? Do you assume that there is no need to look further for facts because you know all the facts you need to know?
Am I assuming that everyone assumes way too much? If I am assuming, is my assumption wrong? Assuming you will answer me in the comment section, will you have the courage to speak the truth about assumptions?
{{HUGS}} yall
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Sunday, October 24, 2010
ANOTHER 50 Ways to Make a Difference Without Spending a Penny
There is something deep within us all that knows it is better to give than to receive. That is why my heart is always screaming "There's NO joy like Spreading JOY!" Just like most people, this economy is killing me financially. I can't seem to get out from under the ever growing snowball of horror as far as getting ahead goes. That does NOT stop me from giving and making a difference. It's what I do, always has been, always will be.
This need to give inspired me to write 50 Ways to Make a Difference Without Spending a Penny last year. I'm honored to say that it has inspired many whose hearts have the desire to give, but their wallet says NO. My goal with these ideas is to get you to a point that you are keenly aware of ways to make a difference. That you'll recognize various chances that tend to pop up. I want your heart to soar as you are doing what you can, where you are, with that you have. And, believe me - it will.
EVERY act of joy, regardless of what it is, has limitless possibilities. You may never know just how far your selfless act of joy went.
It is my pleasure to present to you ANOTHER 50 ways of making a difference with OUT spending a single penny!
1. Click on Ads when visiting web sites. - You are already there reading & the owner of the site makes some money off each click, so why not?
2. Blog Comments - Take a few moments and tell the writer of the article if you liked or even disliked what was written. Feed back is always wonderful!
3. If you shop Amazon.com USE the affiliate link of a friend! WHY not let a small percentage of your purchase help someone? Don't know anyone? I know of 2. Richard @mcProdigal & Brett @ChristianRep (click their NAME to be directed to their sites which has their Amazon link there!)
4. Make every phone call extremely pleasant. Even the "Non helping" help desk calls.
5. Post Links to Charity organizational events to your facebook wall or twitter feed. If you can't donate a financial gift, donate your voice! Do it daily to help promote the event without being asked to.
6. If you know someone is having a rough day, make a video encouraging them to keep going and email it or facebook it to them. I have received a few of these, and LOVE it!
7. Donate your used computer, projectors etc to someone that doesn't have one. May take some time to research it, but completely worth it. Many single mom's would love NOT to have to go to a public library to use the internet.
8. Leave a comment below with a way of spreading joy without spending a penny. ;)
9. Establish a monthly "NO Chore Day" for your entire family. Mom - yes, this includes you too. Do something fun with that time. The dishes will wait for you!
10. Invite a friend over for coffee, dessert and a fun time of chatting.
11. Color with some children. Color with YOUR children. Don't even stay inside the lines. Be adventurous and color outside the lines.
12. Email this list to someone who has a huge heart but is without the financial means to make a difference.
13. Turn off all lights when leaving the room. (Mom's all over the world will thank you!)
14. Send an encouraging text to let someone know you were thinking of them.
15. Give a HUG - my goodness, just do it! One size fits all, you can't hug the wrong person and even if you are having an awesome day, a hug will just make it fantabulous!
16. When making homemade bread, double the recipe and give some away.
17. If you have someone's Instant Message or Skype contact info, leave them a message even if they are off line. They will find it and be encouraged when they log on.
18. Send Ecards to people in your email address book. I love using www.greetums.com and www.sendwisecards.com for this. The possibilities are truly endless. Go, encourage and email smiles!
19. Recently read a book that you loved? Has a friend given you a book that they had published? Write a review and post it without being asked to on your web site promoting it. Every bit of promotion helps. (I'm so far behind on this...I'm working on it!)
20. Surprise your family with a HOT breakfast one morning, instead of the traditional quick milk, juice and cereal as they are running out of the door.
21. Give kind words freely. Honestly, after a day of "you didn't accomplish this, you made a D on that test, you monthly projections were off by a long shot...blah, blah, blah" WE all need to hear more positive things that we did do.
22. Be generous with the pat on the backs, the handshakes and eye to eye contact. Positive reinforcement here!
23. When my head is on my desk, don't bother me. Honestly, there is reason.
24. Share confidence! Remind others that they CAN do this. They are excellent at what they do. They are strong and will make it through.
25. When you are sick with a head cold, don't write. Just don't do it. Spare us all the whinybrat ickiness and don't write. ok? (LOLOL, that is a note to myself. I currently have a cold and can't think of anything to write here and am feeling kind of bratty! Thus the "harshness" of #23. I'm leaving this, but will do a for real #25 and stop writing for the night.)
25. If you see someone in distress, tears or extremely emotional about something. Even if you don't know them, take a moment to smile and remind them that it WILL be alright. Don't make light of their situation, but do be encouraging.
26. Return a favor - without being asked.
27. Do not assume - Don't do it. What you think you might know isn't necessarily the truth of the actual known fact. You just never know....you know?
28. Wink at random people. Make sure you pass along a huge smile too!
29. Shake hands or some how, some way greet our wonderful Military personnel each and every time you see someone in uniform. Look them in the eyes and say thank you. Make this a rule! I never pass up this opportunity.
30. Take time to smell the roses. You pass them in the store, you pass them in gardens. Take the time to do it. You never know who is watching and how you will inspire them.
31. Write a note for your child(ren) expressing how proud of them you are. Leave it on their pillow or put it in their overnight bag. This is always fun for a lunch box too, especially if your child is young.
32. Be forgiving today. Bury the hatchet and let bygones, be bygones.
33. SLOW down - so you won't be grouchy! YOU know it's true. When you are in a hurry every SINGLE thing gets on your nerves and you are grouchy. (Pointing the finger at MYSELF!! I never do things slowly)
34. VOTE - Don't let this opportunity pass you by.
35. Tell those that you love, you love them. Seriously. Go on....I'll wait.
36. Designate your company MATCH to Spreading JOY. Many organizations will match your contributions 100 % up to a certain amount. Here are some Corporations that match donations.
37. Attend the party. Seriously. You were invited. The Host is working hard at putting it together! YOU will make someone happy...so GO - - have fun, sit back and ENJOY!
38. When singing in the car, LOUDLY, be aware of the feelings of others - if YOU are not alone. ;) Make sure its songs they can sing along to.
39. Phone calls - for NO reasons. Love this. Go ahead and make that call. You never know who you will encourage, whose day you'll make brighter and how that person just might have needed that encouragement at just that moment.
40. Eat Dessert FIRST. You will be a huge spreadingJOY hero to your family when you plan this. Go all out - do ice cream in waffle bowls. Have Reese's Cup Pie (and invite me over) or Chocolate Cake with Chocolate frosting. Have it first and have lots of fun!
41. Celebrate your UN-Birthday with your family. Make a cake from scratch, using basic ingredients from the pantry. The fun, laughter and the fact that it's your UN-birthday will have your home filled with great laughter and JOY!
42. Use a gift card that you received for someone else! Wow. HOW selfless is this? You'll make a difference and it will not have cost YOU a single cent.
43. Share your frequent flyer miles. Do you travel alot? Have an abundance of miles racked up. Offer a night or 2 at a hotel to someone. Let me know that you would be a resource of miles for Spreading JOY.
44. Do not wake up Grumpy. Let him sleep. ;) (hahahahaha. Ok, that is as old as the hills, but still funny to me.) Seriously. If you wake up grumpy, focus on others, think of the millions of little things that make YOUR life big and keep the ickiness to yourself until it passes. We want to be spreadingJOY not spreadingICK. Check out Confessions of a Cranky Gal.
45. Host an afternoon Tea Party with your child(ren). These will be cherished memories indeed. Before you know it, you'll be attending the wedding of your princess. Remember, PINKIES up!
46. Be happy for someone else's success AND help them, in any way, shape or form to be successful.
47. Watch your words. This reminds me of "Sticks and stones will break my bones, but words will never hurt me." yeah, you remember that rhyme. IT IS NOT TRUE! Your words are powerful! They will leave a mark on people! Either positive or negative. You get to choose! Choose wisely!
48. Help your child(ren) complete an act of joy every day. Starting joyful habits at a young age will instill a kindness that will last a life time.
49. Leave the mole hill small. Do not make a mountain out of it. Trust me, you'll face enough mountains in your lifetime. Don't add to it.
50. End on a positive note. I realize this cannot always be accomplished, but it is worth the effort.
51. Leave a sticky note of encouragement on a few of your co-workers computer. Don't sign it. Just do it.
There you have it! Another 50 ways of making a difference without spending a single penny. I love this stuff. Spreading joy has never been easier.
I know things are tough, but you are tougher. You can make a difference, right where you are, with what you have. Free your heart of guilt because you feel you can not make a difference. You can. Do one thing a day. Just one.
What are your thoughts?
Make sure you come back and tell me - How are YOU spreading joy?
((HUGS)) Yall
This need to give inspired me to write 50 Ways to Make a Difference Without Spending a Penny last year. I'm honored to say that it has inspired many whose hearts have the desire to give, but their wallet says NO. My goal with these ideas is to get you to a point that you are keenly aware of ways to make a difference. That you'll recognize various chances that tend to pop up. I want your heart to soar as you are doing what you can, where you are, with that you have. And, believe me - it will.
EVERY act of joy, regardless of what it is, has limitless possibilities. You may never know just how far your selfless act of joy went.
It is my pleasure to present to you ANOTHER 50 ways of making a difference with OUT spending a single penny!
1. Click on Ads when visiting web sites. - You are already there reading & the owner of the site makes some money off each click, so why not?
2. Blog Comments - Take a few moments and tell the writer of the article if you liked or even disliked what was written. Feed back is always wonderful!
3. If you shop Amazon.com USE the affiliate link of a friend! WHY not let a small percentage of your purchase help someone? Don't know anyone? I know of 2. Richard @mcProdigal & Brett @ChristianRep (click their NAME to be directed to their sites which has their Amazon link there!)
4. Make every phone call extremely pleasant. Even the "Non helping" help desk calls.
5. Post Links to Charity organizational events to your facebook wall or twitter feed. If you can't donate a financial gift, donate your voice! Do it daily to help promote the event without being asked to.
6. If you know someone is having a rough day, make a video encouraging them to keep going and email it or facebook it to them. I have received a few of these, and LOVE it!
7. Donate your used computer, projectors etc to someone that doesn't have one. May take some time to research it, but completely worth it. Many single mom's would love NOT to have to go to a public library to use the internet.
8. Leave a comment below with a way of spreading joy without spending a penny. ;)
9. Establish a monthly "NO Chore Day" for your entire family. Mom - yes, this includes you too. Do something fun with that time. The dishes will wait for you!
10. Invite a friend over for coffee, dessert and a fun time of chatting.
11. Color with some children. Color with YOUR children. Don't even stay inside the lines. Be adventurous and color outside the lines.
12. Email this list to someone who has a huge heart but is without the financial means to make a difference.
13. Turn off all lights when leaving the room. (Mom's all over the world will thank you!)
14. Send an encouraging text to let someone know you were thinking of them.
15. Give a HUG - my goodness, just do it! One size fits all, you can't hug the wrong person and even if you are having an awesome day, a hug will just make it fantabulous!
16. When making homemade bread, double the recipe and give some away.
17. If you have someone's Instant Message or Skype contact info, leave them a message even if they are off line. They will find it and be encouraged when they log on.
18. Send Ecards to people in your email address book. I love using www.greetums.com and www.sendwisecards.com for this. The possibilities are truly endless. Go, encourage and email smiles!
19. Recently read a book that you loved? Has a friend given you a book that they had published? Write a review and post it without being asked to on your web site promoting it. Every bit of promotion helps. (I'm so far behind on this...I'm working on it!)
20. Surprise your family with a HOT breakfast one morning, instead of the traditional quick milk, juice and cereal as they are running out of the door.
21. Give kind words freely. Honestly, after a day of "you didn't accomplish this, you made a D on that test, you monthly projections were off by a long shot...blah, blah, blah" WE all need to hear more positive things that we did do.
22. Be generous with the pat on the backs, the handshakes and eye to eye contact. Positive reinforcement here!
23. When my head is on my desk, don't bother me. Honestly, there is reason.
24. Share confidence! Remind others that they CAN do this. They are excellent at what they do. They are strong and will make it through.
25. When you are sick with a head cold, don't write. Just don't do it. Spare us all the whinybrat ickiness and don't write. ok? (LOLOL, that is a note to myself. I currently have a cold and can't think of anything to write here and am feeling kind of bratty! Thus the "harshness" of #23. I'm leaving this, but will do a for real #25 and stop writing for the night.)
25. If you see someone in distress, tears or extremely emotional about something. Even if you don't know them, take a moment to smile and remind them that it WILL be alright. Don't make light of their situation, but do be encouraging.
26. Return a favor - without being asked.
27. Do not assume - Don't do it. What you think you might know isn't necessarily the truth of the actual known fact. You just never know....you know?
28. Wink at random people. Make sure you pass along a huge smile too!
29. Shake hands or some how, some way greet our wonderful Military personnel each and every time you see someone in uniform. Look them in the eyes and say thank you. Make this a rule! I never pass up this opportunity.
30. Take time to smell the roses. You pass them in the store, you pass them in gardens. Take the time to do it. You never know who is watching and how you will inspire them.
31. Write a note for your child(ren) expressing how proud of them you are. Leave it on their pillow or put it in their overnight bag. This is always fun for a lunch box too, especially if your child is young.
32. Be forgiving today. Bury the hatchet and let bygones, be bygones.
33. SLOW down - so you won't be grouchy! YOU know it's true. When you are in a hurry every SINGLE thing gets on your nerves and you are grouchy. (Pointing the finger at MYSELF!! I never do things slowly)
34. VOTE - Don't let this opportunity pass you by.
35. Tell those that you love, you love them. Seriously. Go on....I'll wait.
36. Designate your company MATCH to Spreading JOY. Many organizations will match your contributions 100 % up to a certain amount. Here are some Corporations that match donations.
37. Attend the party. Seriously. You were invited. The Host is working hard at putting it together! YOU will make someone happy...so GO - - have fun, sit back and ENJOY!
38. When singing in the car, LOUDLY, be aware of the feelings of others - if YOU are not alone. ;) Make sure its songs they can sing along to.
39. Phone calls - for NO reasons. Love this. Go ahead and make that call. You never know who you will encourage, whose day you'll make brighter and how that person just might have needed that encouragement at just that moment.
40. Eat Dessert FIRST. You will be a huge spreadingJOY hero to your family when you plan this. Go all out - do ice cream in waffle bowls. Have Reese's Cup Pie (and invite me over) or Chocolate Cake with Chocolate frosting. Have it first and have lots of fun!
41. Celebrate your UN-Birthday with your family. Make a cake from scratch, using basic ingredients from the pantry. The fun, laughter and the fact that it's your UN-birthday will have your home filled with great laughter and JOY!
42. Use a gift card that you received for someone else! Wow. HOW selfless is this? You'll make a difference and it will not have cost YOU a single cent.
43. Share your frequent flyer miles. Do you travel alot? Have an abundance of miles racked up. Offer a night or 2 at a hotel to someone. Let me know that you would be a resource of miles for Spreading JOY.
44. Do not wake up Grumpy. Let him sleep. ;) (hahahahaha. Ok, that is as old as the hills, but still funny to me.) Seriously. If you wake up grumpy, focus on others, think of the millions of little things that make YOUR life big and keep the ickiness to yourself until it passes. We want to be spreadingJOY not spreadingICK. Check out Confessions of a Cranky Gal.
45. Host an afternoon Tea Party with your child(ren). These will be cherished memories indeed. Before you know it, you'll be attending the wedding of your princess. Remember, PINKIES up!
46. Be happy for someone else's success AND help them, in any way, shape or form to be successful.
47. Watch your words. This reminds me of "Sticks and stones will break my bones, but words will never hurt me." yeah, you remember that rhyme. IT IS NOT TRUE! Your words are powerful! They will leave a mark on people! Either positive or negative. You get to choose! Choose wisely!
48. Help your child(ren) complete an act of joy every day. Starting joyful habits at a young age will instill a kindness that will last a life time.
49. Leave the mole hill small. Do not make a mountain out of it. Trust me, you'll face enough mountains in your lifetime. Don't add to it.
50. End on a positive note. I realize this cannot always be accomplished, but it is worth the effort.
51. Leave a sticky note of encouragement on a few of your co-workers computer. Don't sign it. Just do it.
There you have it! Another 50 ways of making a difference without spending a single penny. I love this stuff. Spreading joy has never been easier.
I know things are tough, but you are tougher. You can make a difference, right where you are, with what you have. Free your heart of guilt because you feel you can not make a difference. You can. Do one thing a day. Just one.
What are your thoughts?
Make sure you come back and tell me - How are YOU spreading joy?
((HUGS)) Yall
Saturday, October 23, 2010
In A Valley
I'm in a valley. It's true. Have been for about a month now AND I love it! I do! I'm working in beautiful Salem Virginia. Mountains are everywhere I look. The ride to and from each week has been gorgeous with the color of the leaves changing to burnt orange and bright reds. Megan even asked me when I started working there, what is it was like. My reply was, "I'm in a valley." to which she responded ohhhhhh, niiiiice! I had to smile because I knew that I've been wondering about life's valleys.
Being in this majestic valley has got me thinking lately about "life's valleys."
We all go through the valley in life, there is no escaping it. It's a matter of when. My question to myself has been why don't I "look up" at the wonderful surroundings when I'm in life's valley, just as I'm doing while working here in the valley of Virginia? I know that I'm surrounded by a million little things that make life glorious and I also know the valleys are going to happen. So what is the disconnect?
Could it be that I'm so focused on the issues that I forget to look up and enjoy what is around me? Or maybe the discouragement during that time has put a huge cloud over me and I can't see the beauty that is all about me? Could it be that discontentment wastes my energy and I have no strength to focus on making it through the valley? Why have I never thought of looking up before?
We all have so many blessings in our life that should carry us from one valley to the next but when we are in those valleys - we tend to forget them, so our stay there seems much longer than necessary.
The valleys of life are hard. I've been in many of them and do not enjoy them during that time. I'm always thankful for friends I can come to for help, but like many - I sometimes choose not to ask, for fear of being a "burden".
I faced another closed door a few weeks back. My heart ached with great pain, discouragement and no music was there. Until I poured out my heart in the following words that day, I sat in silence. No singing, no happiness and fighting back the tears from yet one more closed door.
The Closed Door
Sometimes the hurt is too much to bare
Even though you say I can, I feel I can't share
The Load is heavy, the road is long
The heart is weary and has lost its song
I know there's hope that never ends
But for now it seems my life won't mend
I just want to be held, I'm tired and weak
I'll simply rest in silence, as I can't even speak
You are strong, I'm not. I can't even try
I can't stop the tears from falling from my eyes
This is me, this is all - there is nothing more
Such is my life - as I stand, facing the closed door.
Will I remember this in my next valley? Yes. Will it make a difference? I honestly don't know. Will I struggle along alone? I hope not. I hope that I will have the courage to ask for help that day, but it takes courage for that, and I'm far from courageous.
What do you think? Why do we not look up when we are in life's valley? Why do we struggle alone - without asking for help? We have great friendships and tons of resources, yet we choose to limp along through the valley - alone.
Tell me, what is the disconnect?
{{HUGS}} yall
Sunday, October 3, 2010
The Little Things
"Holding Pure Joy! Thanks Chris!
Some time ago, I came across a saying
and instantly I fell in love with it, because my heart has always celebrated little things. I even asked my mom recently if I had always loved the little things in life as a child and she recalled that I did. That the small, wonderful and simple things were always amazing to me. Learning that made my heart smile.
Many that know me, know I love Reese Cups and the picture here is me holding a "GIFT" from a student that had just attended the concept of Spreading Joy presentation at their school. I held it up to Angie, saying in my mind "LOOOOOK what I just got!!" I was so excited because I came to the school that day to GIVE to the students, not expecting a single thing in return and he put what he had just heard to work by spreading joy MY way. Those kinds of unexpected little things will make my heart float through the day!
Inspired from a calendar of 10 Happy Things a day I purchased as a treat for myself last year, I started keeping a list in the back of my journal of the wonderful little things that make my heart smile. I've decided to share them with you here, hoping that as you journey through your day with a million little joys floating around you, you'll take time to notice them as well as appreciate them. Who knows, maybe you'll start a list of the little things that make your life BIG too!
It's the little things that make life Big
and instantly I fell in love with it, because my heart has always celebrated little things. I even asked my mom recently if I had always loved the little things in life as a child and she recalled that I did. That the small, wonderful and simple things were always amazing to me. Learning that made my heart smile.
Many that know me, know I love Reese Cups and the picture here is me holding a "GIFT" from a student that had just attended the concept of Spreading Joy presentation at their school. I held it up to Angie, saying in my mind "LOOOOOK what I just got!!" I was so excited because I came to the school that day to GIVE to the students, not expecting a single thing in return and he put what he had just heard to work by spreading joy MY way. Those kinds of unexpected little things will make my heart float through the day!
Inspired from a calendar of 10 Happy Things a day I purchased as a treat for myself last year, I started keeping a list in the back of my journal of the wonderful little things that make my heart smile. I've decided to share them with you here, hoping that as you journey through your day with a million little joys floating around you, you'll take time to notice them as well as appreciate them. Who knows, maybe you'll start a list of the little things that make your life BIG too!
In no particular order at all - Some of the little things that make my life BIG!
| Coffee | Reesecups | Hugs | Diet Coke | Twinkling Eyes |
| Smiles | Missionaries | Gum | Books | Rainbows |
| Ocean | Sunrise | Sunset | Full Moon | Gel Pens w/Bright colors |
| Cloud Shapes | Bright Stars | Playdoh | Bible | Blowing Bubbles |
| Singing | Music | American Flag | Sunglasses | Handwritten Notes |
| Chuck Norris | Soft Carpet | Favorite Jeans | Monkeys | Roasted Marshmallows |
| Favorite Tennis shoes | Riding a Bike | Walk along a river | Roasted Marshmallows | Hot Chocolate w/marshmallows |
| Holding Hands | Blue Roses | Teddy Bears | Soft Kleenex | Over Sized Sweaters |
| Watching My kids sleep | Laying in grass alone | Sound of crashing waves | Laying in grass w/a friend | Catching snowflakes on tongue |
| Fresh Snowfall | Long necklaces | Wizard of Oz | Fireballs | Splashing in a puddle |
| M&M’s | Cute Socks | Technology | Toe Socks | Unsweetened Iced Tea |
| Breakfast | Christmas | Green LIghts | Soldiers | Heart dangle earrings |
| Standing Firm | Blackberry | Disney World | Nurses | Handmade bracelets |
| Jukebox full of Oldies | Lightning across the sky | Crossing a bridge w/out stopping | Police officers | Friends who call in the middle of the night |
| Roller Coasters | Puppies | Slinkies | Card games | Instant Messaging |
| Board Games | Cute Note Pads | Sticky Notes | White Out | Unconditional Love |
| Steady Rain | Rolling Fog | Crisp Breeze | Hot Soup | Waking to a kiss |
| Forgiveness | Cute Purses | Quotes | Poems | Making Cotton Candy |
| Belly Laughs | Pictures | Scrapbooking | Opals | Eating Cotton Candy |
| Sleeping Babies | Audio Bible | Audio Books | Skype | Thunder in the distance |
| Lemonade | Circus | Cute Sunglasses | iTunes | Precious moments |
| Face Painting | No Spill Days | iTouch | Hair Spray | Hot Cookies out of oven |
| Hugs from nieces/nephews | Watching when NO one sees | Overstuffed comfy chairs | My Heart Ring from Daddy | Hot Cake w/melted icing |
| Swinging on Swing | HUGE sliding boards | Empty Tomb of HOPE | Being SAFE in Gods Arms | Breakfast for Dinner |
| Choices | Triple Coupons | Coming Home | Operas | Hugs for NO reason |
| Walking Barefoot | Random Photos | Happy Endings | Roses | Little Debbie Cakes |
| Plants surviving in my house | Growing up to be my Mom | Being only ONE in the movie theater | Meeting new People | Sitting sideways in comfy chair |
| Ice Cold Slushies | Animal Cookies | Disney Classics | Hope | Always having music |
| Spreading JOY | Opportunities | Water Slides | God’s Power | Chuck Norris Bookmark |
| Golden Sunsets | God’s Plan | Safe flights | Free Dinner | Bath & Bodyworks |
| Smiles during tears | Toasted Bagels & Cream Cheese | Watching a merry go round | Movie Theater Popcorn | Social Media making world accessible |
| Hope Restored | New Watches | Misprints | Paper Clips | Kids that talk &talk…. |
| Sparkles of love in eyes of friend | Kisses from Todd & Megan | Snow that is soft on day 2 | Listening to the Rain | Watching my kids make the RIGHT decisions |
| Unplanned vacations | Full moon hanging on a cloud | Long lingering WARM hugs | Seeing Todd for 19th Bday | Hearing Harry Connick JR Sing in PERSON! |
| Blistex | Journey Perfume | Care Bears | Curve cologne | Monkey Bookmark |
| Sleeping to sound of ocean lapping at shore | PB&J Sandwiches w/Milk | Extra HOT Cinnamon Dolce Latte | Laughing thru nite w/a friend | Sleeping just after alarm goes off |
| Free Anything | Niagara falls | Contentment | A quick exit | Beach Trips w/Mom |
| Passing w/A “C” | God’s Character | God’s Promises | God’s Power | Free Audio Books |
| Golden Grahams | Curve 4 Women | Tweet-ups | Candid photos | Meeting Chuck Norris |
| Kids Praying | Being Welcome | Being Paid Up | …….Instead | Dreams Coming True |
| Singing YOU are my sunshine! | Power of Holy Spirit | Overhearing kids say something nice | Chocolate covered pretzels | Being held close as I sleep |
| Texts from my children | Sitting w/young people | Blowing bubbles w/gum | Kisses on the forehead | Chocolate covered Marshmallows |
| Seeing Dad in my dreams | A day of “To Don’ts” | Beauty in the Ordinary | Being loved as always | Saved messages in my Voice Mail |
| Unexpected help | Reesecups in mail | Being Found | Being Trusted | My Flower garden living |
| Angels Among us | Hugs from Santa | Being Noticed | Guidance | Ocean at Midnight |
| Not giving up | Pondering | Finishing | Soaring | Fireplace at 1 am |
| Cute Coffee Cups | Saying Thank YOU | Treasures of the heart | Courage to step out | Making a Difference |
| Smokies of TN | Cobblestone walkways | Firefighter friends in Boston | Acceptance of situation | Frequent Flier Miles |
| Early Morning Smiles | Loving with No Boundaries | Great things HE has done | Appreciating NOW | Learning to live again |
| Phone calls of thanks from ocean | Love that lasts forever | Realizing love hurts and it’s ok | Brightening MY corner of the world | Unbridled laughter of Teen girls |
| Meg sitting upside down | Todd’s time beside me talking about nothing | Noticing a smile & glance from across the room | Getting items donated for others | Discernment right on time |
| Getting what you need | Hearing what is NOT being said | Computer prayers answered | Sitting in Church w/mom | Being happy -regardless |
| Seeing Hearts Grow | My moms unconditional love | Winning the heart of a shy child | Hair blowing in the wind | Learning a friend is a true American Hero |
| Happy gatherings for no reason | Getting the gift that seemed ridiculous | Realizing the headache is easing up | Texts asking are you OK after horrid day | Kisses from my almost grown children |
| Laughing while others wonder | Unexpected gifts in the mail | Printing off cute photo hugs | Sight for sore eyes | Little Debbie making it easy to give by giving |
| Falling asleep immediately | Whiffs of old spice | Being prayed through | Color making my day bright | Laughing at myself |
| Friends Praying | Walmart @ 5 am | One More Day | Protection | Getting to the Point |
| Certainty | String cheese | 2 hour naps | Another Chance | My John R. Rice Bible |
| Wild Flowers | New Journeys | Simple pleasures | Moments | Keeping things going |
| Giggling…a few days later | Honest Communication | Inspirational words | Listening…really listening | Being accepted just as I am |
| Being Believed in | Joy after the Pain | Blueberry Muffins | Family Cookout | Surprise phone calls |
| Strawberry yogurt | Extra night for free | Believing in my children | Brighter days ahead | Sharing my passion |
| Marie Pong | A car to borrow | New purse 4 free | Messages | Peace, glorious peace |
| Stress free ping pong | Cool nights after hot summer | Resources at fingertips | Hot apple cider w/cinnamon | Guilt leaving the heart |
| Passing with flying colors | Fasting & being close to God | Finding out you’ve inspired someone | Msg of Praise for blessing Psalm 6 | Todd in suit & Tie for me |
| New book in mail | No bake cookies | Privacy!!! | Stickers | Knowing this isn’t all |
| Being inspired | Cool Sandals | Encouraging texts | Milk duds | 1895 House a B&B |
| Learning from an expert | Being a persistent little booger | Beach all to myself | Emptying my heart of guilt | Trusting even when I don’t understand |
| m&m minis | Stickers in journal | Stickers on FB | Coming Home | Being a Homebody |
| Jesus - Always | Wanting to…. | Gifts to myself | Silence | Cool sunglasses cheap |
| Todd saying “its perfect mom” | Foggy Quiet mornings | One of these days…being today | Exploring new places | Shaking hands w/40 military personnel |
| A smile that dries the tears | Bright paper to write on | Breeze from an open window | Sounds that brings smiles | Opportunities in another state |
| Going before security comes | Praying without ceasing | Travel and exploration | Coming home to a clean kitchen | Strength for tomorrow |
| Sweater when you need it | Moon hanging in the morning sky | Mountains every where I look | Recognizing simple miracles | Kids having the Bible I gave to them from 2nd grade & they are in 5th grade now |
| Friends sharing pics of beach & mountains | Visiting a new ice cream shop | Letting my light shine | Christmas Stockings | Watching a wall of rain approach |
| Lance cheese &pb crackers | Compliment from Princess Megan | Famous Author commenting on blog | Warm comfy Christmas sweaters | Phoning a friend, asking for help & getting it |
| Phone call from Todd | Contacts & Corrective lenses | Praying at Alter & a friend joins unexpectedly | Surprise Videos in email from friend | Unexpected knocks at door |
| Cool Journals | Chocolate Milk | Plums | Peace Lilies | Fixing a problem easily |
| Cool Whip | Sprinkles on top | Remembering | IT Heroes | Wonder Woman |
| Fresh Roasted chicken dinner | Fav Worship song being sung live | Dinner, movie & Bookstore date | Friends pics on FB | Watching my brothers with their Grand kids |
| Saying Yes to God and trusting | Muffins in the Mail | Mustard seed faith | Blissful UNeventfulness | Sausage Egg & Cheese McMuffin |
| Bewitched | Cool Boots | Blue Ridge Pkwy | Promises Kept | When the stars line up |
| Cake Icing Wars with Todd | Meg Blocking goals in soccer | Reading under a tree | Warmth from Fire Place | Cream Cheese Brownies |
| Sesame Chicken | Bundling up | Emergency Exits | Par 3 | More than Enough |
| List making | Anklets | Bracelets | Cool shells | Stove Top Stuffing |
| Wireless Internet | Lucky Charms | Winter Olympics | “Getting” It | Hands free Headset |
| Laughing till I Cry | Del Sol Nail Polish | Mailing Gifts | Sleeping In | Hot hush puppies |
| Free E Books | Signed Book | Silly Book marks | Silly Putty | Chuck Norris Facts |
| Cute Stickers | Worship Songs | Balloon bouquets | Happy bunny | Key Chain from friend |
| Special Olympics & the smiles | Matching Hair color | Sugar free Lattes from McDonalds | Burger king Onion Rings | Weekend alone at beach |
| Scotch Tape | Sharpie Markers | Love Songs | Oldies | Paper Jam Free Days |
| Extra Strength Tylenol | Mechanical pencils | Chocolate cupcakes | Secrets of the heart | Finding lids for bowls easily |
| Faith | Oranges | Strawberries | Ranch Dip | Late nights on Twitter |
| Seizing the Day | Being Needed | An Extra Hug | Inner Strength | Living your Passion |
| Soothing rain | Bacon | Phases of moon | Bounciness | Upgrades for free |
| Wooden swing on tree w/ropes | Extra suite for guests | Sitting in warmth of sunshine | Kids doing what is asked on first request | Thinking of a friend late at night, calling and they answer |
| Exactly enough cake | Kisses from slobbery babies | Unexpected calls that make you laugh | Knowing what faith can do | Peanut Butter sticks |
| Messing with song director in church, during service | Wonder Woman to do book | Missionaries coming to visit church | Sitting with Angie in church | Minute maid sugar free lemonade |
| People Watching | Tip toeing | Wall of windows | Chips & salsa | Napping in the sun |
| Cute post it notes | Barefoot in grass | Romantic table for 2 | Slow dancing | Love songs being sung to you |
| Laying in his arms | Children that prayin…believing | Laughter through troubles | Emails | Finding true love |
| Splitting a banana split | Ending the day with a friend | Arriving safely | Easter baskets | Sharing JOY with others |
| Facebook friends | God’s Strength | More than 1 bestest friend | Hot fudge brownie sundae | Starting a chain of yawning |
| Pony tail holders | Secret paths | Schoochin | Clean windows | Pimento cheese |
| Pig tails | Face paint | Challenge free trips | Corn dogs | Gazing at sky |
| Perseverance | Funny people | Something worth waiting for | Early morning thunder storms | Time capsules |
| Welcome home flowers | Watermelon | Emailed hugs | Feeling better after crying | Waking to roses |
| You Tube qued up | Help through the rain | Swimming | Being prayed for & not even knowing it | Deep, peaceful sleep – through the night |
Whew.... that is a lot, I know. but trust me. this list will continue grow. Maybe the next set will be in color...as I do love writing in color. All of these things listed in my journal are in different colors.
What are some of the little things that make YOUR life big? What JOYS do you see daily that make your heart smile? I hope you'll take the time to tell us! You never know who YOU will inspire!
{{{HUGS}} yall
Saturday, September 18, 2010
I Wish
I wish I knew what was going on
I wish you’d let me see
I wish I could bring you smiles
Just the way that you do me
I wish I could melt the hurt away
I wish you’d let me in
I wish for you great happiness
And that your heart will soar high again
I wish away the sorrow
I wish away the dread
I wish you a thousand blessings
Upon your life instead
I wish you every kindness
I wish you joy and peace
I wish you amazing laughter
And great love that’s within reach
I wish these great things for you
And even a million more
And for every one that’s granted you
I wish for hope restored.
What do you wish for?
Have you ever wanted to help someone and didn't know what to say or do? What did you do?
{{HUGS}} yall
Sunday, September 12, 2010
A Hug Is
A HUG is……
LOVE wrapped around you so tight
WARMTH when your heart feels cold
PEACE when the ocean within you rages
A SMILE when the tears flow
COURAGE when fear abounds
FULLNESS when the soul feels empty
DELICIOUS when the world tastes bitter
HARMONIOUS when your life is out of tune
HEALING for the one that is grieving
KINDNESS in the midst of hatred
STRENGTH for those weakened by the journey
WISDOM when confusion is all around
ENCOURAGEMENT when you feel defeated
PURE JOY when happiness is hiding
A WELCOME HOME after the day has been cruel
REASSURANCE when all confidence is lost
CERTAINTY when all is unsure
PRICELESS when the heart feels worthless
EXTRAORDINARY when typical over throws the day
MYSTERIOUS as the miracle of its uniqueness takes form
A WHISPER – I love you
Saturday, September 11, 2010
The Shape of Mercy
The Shape of Mercy written by Susan Meissner is an amazing Novel based on historical facts from the Salem Witch Trials in the late 1600's.
Lauren, a young college student, is hired to transcribe a diary that belongs to Abigail, a mysterious elderly woman who lives alone. The diary belonged to a distant relative of Abigal's - a young woman, Mercy Hayworth, who experienced the horrors of how assumptions and accusations can influence people to the point of changing their way of thinking about a person, place or thing, even to the point of many needless deaths such as in the Salem Witch Trials.
One of my favorite lines from the book is "never let anyone tell you what to think." So many people erroneously assume things just by what kind of clothing is being worn, what vehicle is being driven, or even what school or people you spend time with. The shape of mercy isn't just about kindness being given to those who do not necessarily deserve it, it is also about not judging based on anything other than facts, thus avoiding the "Well you KNOW how those kind of people are" syndrome.
This exciting story of love lost in one generation, yet found in another is filled with example after example of how we make horrible assumptions based on a quick "glance" and the stigma associated with it.
It also reminds us that fear is a powerful emotion. When our hearts are gripped with anguish and our minds are searching for answers, we must be careful not to allow the emotion itself to consume us and allow us to falsely place blame just to satisfy the need to blame.
Mercy showed us our true selves. Beautiful and awful. Deep and Shallow. Marvelous and mortal.
I hope that as you read and/or listen to this book, that when you think of mercy, it will be shaped differently as you see your true self when you examine your thoughts and assumptions on a daily basis.
Mercy reminds us that we have a choice.
The strategic use of actual names from that period in history makes you feel as though you could actually look for and find the diary of Mercy Hayworth. Tavia Gilbert is exceptional at reading the book, capturing the emotions and grabbing your heart as you journey through this wonderful book.
Thank you to christianaudio for a complimentary copy of this book via the Reviewers program. I am not required to give a positive review of this book.
Christianaudio has a free audiobook for your downloading pleasure each and every month, as well as gift certificates for the audio book enthusiast in your world.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Session 13 - The Bible in 90 Days
Can you believe it. The last session? Wow. I have enjoyed this journey with you. I don't know about you, but I do plan on reading through my Bible at least 2 or 3 times in a year. Now that I know I can do it more than once a year, I will make this a priority in my life. Plus, I do love listening to it as well.
So, let's get to it...shall we?
This week's reading schedule:
From Children's Letters to God:
Dear God, who draws the lines around the countries? - Nan
Dear God, I bet it is hard for you to love all the people in the world. There are only four people in my family and I could never do it. - James
Dear God, we read that Thomas Edison invented light. But in Sunday School, we learned that you did it. So I guess he stole the idea from you. - Donna
Dear God, I didn't think that orange went with purple until I saw the sunset on Thursday. That was cool. - Eugene
Dear God, thank you for the baby brother, but what I prayed for was a puppy. - Joyce
Are you getting out of the reading what you expected? If so, what are you getting out of it? If not, what had you hoped for and what are you getting instead?
Digging in:
1. After Stephen is stoned, the church is persecuted and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria (Acts 8;1). Is there any upside to this tragedy? What are other examples from your New Testament reading where adversity leads to comparable consequences?
Do you feel that your reading has more thoroughly equipped you for your service for the Lord?
Books you'll encounter this week:
Hebrews - In this letter to the Hebrews, Christ is explained against the backdrop of the Old Testament. The author of this letter is unknown.
James - James is a half-brother of Jesus. His message here is to submit to God in humility. This book is a call to action, with James asserting a person is justified by what he does and not faith alone.
1 Peter - The apostle Peter writes on being holy, submitting to others and living for God.
2 Peter - Peter reminds Christians that he writes as a witness of Christ's life and he encourages all to actively develop a number of Christian qualities as byproducts of our faith.
1 John - Echoing Peter, the apostle John proclaims that he writes as one who witnessed Christ's life. John encourages readers to walk in the light, love one another and fear not, because perfect love drives out fear.
2 John- The Spostle tells readers to love one another, but to be wary of those who do not bring the teaching of Christ.
3 John- John encourages his friend Gaius to walk in truth and protect himself from evil.
Jude - A half brother of Jesus, Jude calls on believers to build themselves p and persevere in the faith. (I love verse 22 KJV And of some have compassion, making a difference - compassion, nothing like it.)
Revelation - The Apostle John's apocalyptic vision is a fantastic end to an extraordinary journey through the Bible. Like the rest of the Bible, reading Revelation once is a good start, but further reading and study are necessary to begin grasping its complex and layered message.
WOW - whahoooo... celebrating the completion of our journey. I have a few final things:
How did this impact your life?
Will you recommend that others do it?
If you haven't finished reading yet, do you plan on finishing?
Is there something you are chaning in your life as a result of reading all of the Bible?
What is next for you? Do you have questions for further study? Take a moment and jot down some things that are next for you. Also, you'll find "Next Steps" suggestions at www.biblein90days.org check them out.
Click here to Listen to the Bible as you read it.
This Weeks Study Guide: Week 13: John There is good stuff here, don’t pass this by!
Here is the audio lesson . (You’ll need to log in!)
Please listen the lessons. I have the dvd’s but can’t post them here…copyright rules. We can discuss what you heard here as well. Listen while you cook, clean or are just taking time to enjoy this journey. I hope you’ll take advantage of this free resource. Listen towards the end of the 7 day time frame, as THIS would be what we would be watching/discussing if we were to be meeting weekly.
If you are seeing this for the first time, we started on June 1st, but you can start right now, just go to Session 1 and begin. Here is the main information page as well.
LASTLY -
As of this writing, I'm not going to finish in 90 days. But I will finish, as I do not give up so easily. I have notes scribbled all over the place and will go back and get them together and place them in the comment section of each of the sessions.
I will also be reading the study guides and commenting on them as well - so check back often - especially the comment section and see if there has been anything new added.
Thank you for joining me on this wonderful journey throught the Bible. I hope your heart has been touched by it. I hope you'll start again, as each time you journey through the Bible - the journey is different. That is the coolest thing of all. You get something wonderfully different each time you read.
{{HUGS}} yall
So, let's get to it...shall we?
This week's reading schedule:
- Day 85 Hebrews 1:1 - James 3:12
- Day 86 James 3:13 - 3 John 14
- Day 87 Jude 1 - Revelation 17:18
- Day 88 Revelation 18:1 - Revelation 22:21
From Children's Letters to God:
Dear God, who draws the lines around the countries? - Nan
Dear God, I bet it is hard for you to love all the people in the world. There are only four people in my family and I could never do it. - James
Dear God, we read that Thomas Edison invented light. But in Sunday School, we learned that you did it. So I guess he stole the idea from you. - Donna
Dear God, I didn't think that orange went with purple until I saw the sunset on Thursday. That was cool. - Eugene
Dear God, thank you for the baby brother, but what I prayed for was a puppy. - Joyce
Are you getting out of the reading what you expected? If so, what are you getting out of it? If not, what had you hoped for and what are you getting instead?
Digging in:
1. After Stephen is stoned, the church is persecuted and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria (Acts 8;1). Is there any upside to this tragedy? What are other examples from your New Testament reading where adversity leads to comparable consequences?
Do you feel that your reading has more thoroughly equipped you for your service for the Lord?
Books you'll encounter this week:
Hebrews - In this letter to the Hebrews, Christ is explained against the backdrop of the Old Testament. The author of this letter is unknown.
James - James is a half-brother of Jesus. His message here is to submit to God in humility. This book is a call to action, with James asserting a person is justified by what he does and not faith alone.
1 Peter - The apostle Peter writes on being holy, submitting to others and living for God.
2 Peter - Peter reminds Christians that he writes as a witness of Christ's life and he encourages all to actively develop a number of Christian qualities as byproducts of our faith.
1 John - Echoing Peter, the apostle John proclaims that he writes as one who witnessed Christ's life. John encourages readers to walk in the light, love one another and fear not, because perfect love drives out fear.
2 John- The Spostle tells readers to love one another, but to be wary of those who do not bring the teaching of Christ.
3 John- John encourages his friend Gaius to walk in truth and protect himself from evil.
Jude - A half brother of Jesus, Jude calls on believers to build themselves p and persevere in the faith. (I love verse 22 KJV And of some have compassion, making a difference - compassion, nothing like it.)
Revelation - The Apostle John's apocalyptic vision is a fantastic end to an extraordinary journey through the Bible. Like the rest of the Bible, reading Revelation once is a good start, but further reading and study are necessary to begin grasping its complex and layered message.
WOW - whahoooo... celebrating the completion of our journey. I have a few final things:
How did this impact your life?
Will you recommend that others do it?
If you haven't finished reading yet, do you plan on finishing?
Is there something you are chaning in your life as a result of reading all of the Bible?
What is next for you? Do you have questions for further study? Take a moment and jot down some things that are next for you. Also, you'll find "Next Steps" suggestions at www.biblein90days.org check them out.
Click here to Listen to the Bible as you read it.
This Weeks Study Guide: Week 13: John There is good stuff here, don’t pass this by!
Here is the audio lesson . (You’ll need to log in!)
Please listen the lessons. I have the dvd’s but can’t post them here…copyright rules. We can discuss what you heard here as well. Listen while you cook, clean or are just taking time to enjoy this journey. I hope you’ll take advantage of this free resource. Listen towards the end of the 7 day time frame, as THIS would be what we would be watching/discussing if we were to be meeting weekly.
If you are seeing this for the first time, we started on June 1st, but you can start right now, just go to Session 1 and begin. Here is the main information page as well.
LASTLY -
As of this writing, I'm not going to finish in 90 days. But I will finish, as I do not give up so easily. I have notes scribbled all over the place and will go back and get them together and place them in the comment section of each of the sessions.
I will also be reading the study guides and commenting on them as well - so check back often - especially the comment section and see if there has been anything new added.
Thank you for joining me on this wonderful journey throught the Bible. I hope your heart has been touched by it. I hope you'll start again, as each time you journey through the Bible - the journey is different. That is the coolest thing of all. You get something wonderfully different each time you read.
{{HUGS}} yall
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Session 12 - The Bible in 90 Days
Can you believe how close to the end of the Bible we are? It has been a fun time of learning, reading and just grounding our faith. I hope these studies has helped you see things in a different way, that you've had several "ah - ha" moments and that your desire to continue to dig deeper into God's word will grow.
This week's reading schedule:
Faith is a funny thing. For many of us, it can seem like it changes a lot. One minute our faith seems unsakable and we feel 100 % certain about God, Christ or the Holy Spirit. But, if we are completely honest withourselves, many of us will admit that every once in a while there's this lingering question mark in the back of our minds.
As we read the Gospels, faith is a core issue that gets a lot of attention. In the Gospel accounts we meet various people who could be plotted in a wide range on the Faith-O-Meter. (The Meter being - Perfect Faith; Big Faith; Middle Faith; Little Faith; No Faith)
1. Based on Matthew 14:25-31 & Matthew 26:69-75, where do you think Peter should be plotted on the Faith Meter?
2. Can you think of some individuals in the Gospels who deomnstrated greater faith than Peter? Who were they? Where should they be plotted on the Faith meter?
3. Has Peter's faith changed by the time he addresses a crowd of Jews in Acts 2:22-24? If so, Why? Where would you place Peter on the Faith Meter now?
4. In general, what happens to the faith of the disciples after Jesus' resurrection?
5. What does Matthew 9;29-30 suggest about the benefits of Faith? Does one's degree of faith seem to be important?
6. Discuss Matthew 17:19-20. What does it tell you about faith.
7. What does Matthew 13:58 tell us about the consequesnce of a lack of faith during Jesus' ministry? What does this suggest about the relationship between faith and God's use of his power to, say, move mountains.
8. Where would you place YOUR faith on this faith meter?
9. How would you apply Jesus's statements in Matthew 21:21-22 to the "mountains" in your life? Based on your reading to date, is there a qualification to the promise in verse 22? If so, what is it? how do you or could you apply this in your everyday living?
10. For a moment, try to imagine setting aside all of your doubts and limitations. What would you do if you had perfect faith?
Books you'll encounter this week:
Romans - The first of Paul's Epistles, this is a letter from the apostle Paul to the early church in Rome. In it, he covers several foundational themes such as faith, life in the Spirit and God's acceptance.
1 Corinthians - Paul appeals to the church in Corinth to avoid division by following Christ rather than competing disciples. He then describes what it means to be followers of Christ and encourages people to give themselves always to the work of the Lord.
2 Corinthians - In a second letter to the church at Corinth, probably written within a year of 1 Corinthians, Paul is replying to an evidently chilly reception by the Corinthians to his previous letter.
Galatians - In this letter to the church in Galatia, Paul establishes his authority before warning the Galatian to accept no other gospel than the gospel of Christ.
Ephesians - Writing to the church in Ephesus, Paul focuses on unity in Christ and living as children of God.
Philippians - Paul core message to the church in Philippi is to imitate Christ's humility.
Colossians - Paul writes to the church in Colosse regarding rules for holy living.
1 Thessalonians - Following a positive report from Timothy about the church of the Thessalonians, Paul writes to encourage them to continue strong in their faith.
2 Thessalonians - Writing soon after the first letter, Paul reiterates that the Thessalonians should stand firm and not be alarmed by false prophecies.
1 Timothy - Paul writes to his protege Timothy to instruct him in his leadership while in Ephesus.
2 Timothy - Paul encourages Timothy to preach the Word, since all Scripture is God-Breathed and prepares Christians to be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Titus - Writing to another young disciple, Paul gives him qualifications for ordaining church elders and instructions on what must be taught to a variety of groups.
Philemon - In this brief letter to his friend Philemon, Paul asks him to free his slave Onesimus and charge anything Onesimus owes Philemon to Paul.
Click here to Listen to the Bible as you read it.
This Weeks Study Guide. Week 12: Paul There is good stuff here, don’t pass this by!
Here is the audio lesson . (You’ll need to log in!)
Please listen the lessons. I have the dvd’s but can’t post them here…copyright rules. We can discuss what you heard here as well. Listen while you cook, clean or are just taking time to enjoy this journey. I hope you’ll take advantage of this free resource. Listen towards the end of the 7 day time frame, as THIS would be what we would be watching/discussing if we were to be meeting weekly.
If you are seeing this for the first time, we started on June 1st, but you can start right now, just go to Session 1 and begin. Here is the main information page as well.
This week's reading schedule:
- Day 78 Acts 6:8 - Acts 16:37
- Day 79 Acts 16:38 - Acts 28:16
- Day 80 Acts 28:17 - Romans 14:23
- Day 81 Romans 15:1 - 1 Corinthians 14:40
- Day 82 1 Corinthians 15:1 - Galatians 3:25
- Day 83 Galatians 3:26 - Colossians 4:18
- Day 84 1 Thessalonians 1:1 - Philemon vs 25
Faith is a funny thing. For many of us, it can seem like it changes a lot. One minute our faith seems unsakable and we feel 100 % certain about God, Christ or the Holy Spirit. But, if we are completely honest withourselves, many of us will admit that every once in a while there's this lingering question mark in the back of our minds.
As we read the Gospels, faith is a core issue that gets a lot of attention. In the Gospel accounts we meet various people who could be plotted in a wide range on the Faith-O-Meter. (The Meter being - Perfect Faith; Big Faith; Middle Faith; Little Faith; No Faith)
1. Based on Matthew 14:25-31 & Matthew 26:69-75, where do you think Peter should be plotted on the Faith Meter?
2. Can you think of some individuals in the Gospels who deomnstrated greater faith than Peter? Who were they? Where should they be plotted on the Faith meter?
3. Has Peter's faith changed by the time he addresses a crowd of Jews in Acts 2:22-24? If so, Why? Where would you place Peter on the Faith Meter now?
4. In general, what happens to the faith of the disciples after Jesus' resurrection?
5. What does Matthew 9;29-30 suggest about the benefits of Faith? Does one's degree of faith seem to be important?
6. Discuss Matthew 17:19-20. What does it tell you about faith.
7. What does Matthew 13:58 tell us about the consequesnce of a lack of faith during Jesus' ministry? What does this suggest about the relationship between faith and God's use of his power to, say, move mountains.
8. Where would you place YOUR faith on this faith meter?
9. How would you apply Jesus's statements in Matthew 21:21-22 to the "mountains" in your life? Based on your reading to date, is there a qualification to the promise in verse 22? If so, what is it? how do you or could you apply this in your everyday living?
10. For a moment, try to imagine setting aside all of your doubts and limitations. What would you do if you had perfect faith?
Books you'll encounter this week:
Romans - The first of Paul's Epistles, this is a letter from the apostle Paul to the early church in Rome. In it, he covers several foundational themes such as faith, life in the Spirit and God's acceptance.
1 Corinthians - Paul appeals to the church in Corinth to avoid division by following Christ rather than competing disciples. He then describes what it means to be followers of Christ and encourages people to give themselves always to the work of the Lord.
2 Corinthians - In a second letter to the church at Corinth, probably written within a year of 1 Corinthians, Paul is replying to an evidently chilly reception by the Corinthians to his previous letter.
Galatians - In this letter to the church in Galatia, Paul establishes his authority before warning the Galatian to accept no other gospel than the gospel of Christ.
Ephesians - Writing to the church in Ephesus, Paul focuses on unity in Christ and living as children of God.
Philippians - Paul core message to the church in Philippi is to imitate Christ's humility.
Colossians - Paul writes to the church in Colosse regarding rules for holy living.
1 Thessalonians - Following a positive report from Timothy about the church of the Thessalonians, Paul writes to encourage them to continue strong in their faith.
2 Thessalonians - Writing soon after the first letter, Paul reiterates that the Thessalonians should stand firm and not be alarmed by false prophecies.
1 Timothy - Paul writes to his protege Timothy to instruct him in his leadership while in Ephesus.
2 Timothy - Paul encourages Timothy to preach the Word, since all Scripture is God-Breathed and prepares Christians to be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Titus - Writing to another young disciple, Paul gives him qualifications for ordaining church elders and instructions on what must be taught to a variety of groups.
Philemon - In this brief letter to his friend Philemon, Paul asks him to free his slave Onesimus and charge anything Onesimus owes Philemon to Paul.
Click here to Listen to the Bible as you read it.
This Weeks Study Guide. Week 12: Paul There is good stuff here, don’t pass this by!
Here is the audio lesson . (You’ll need to log in!)
Please listen the lessons. I have the dvd’s but can’t post them here…copyright rules. We can discuss what you heard here as well. Listen while you cook, clean or are just taking time to enjoy this journey. I hope you’ll take advantage of this free resource. Listen towards the end of the 7 day time frame, as THIS would be what we would be watching/discussing if we were to be meeting weekly.
If you are seeing this for the first time, we started on June 1st, but you can start right now, just go to Session 1 and begin. Here is the main information page as well.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Session 11 - The Bible in 90 Days
Celebrating the fact that we are leaving the Old Testament and now entering the New Testament. We are making such great progress! I'm glad to be on this journey with you.
This week's reading schedule:
Before we move completely out of the Old Testament, let's consider some "Minor" Prophets.
In the next 5 statements, there are 5 errors. Can you list and correct them?
The Old Testament contained many warnings. Have there been friends or loved ones in your life that have warn you about things but you've ignored it? Was there any possibility that this was God's way of getting your attention?
In Matthew 6, Jesus teaches about giving in secret. Have you given in secret during the past year? Spend a moment silently considering something you might secretly give in the near future.
Books you'll encounter this week:
Mark - The shortest of the four Gospels, Mark focuses on the ministry of Christ, beginning with his baptism by John the Baptist and ending with his resurrection.
Luke - Luke was a Gentile physician who traveled as a missionary with the Apostle Paul. He also wrote the book of Acts. In this Gospel, Luke provides "an orderly account" of the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus, highlighting Jesus relationship with many different kinds of people and emphasizing that Jesus came for all people, not just the Jews.
John - Harkening back to Genesis, the book of John Asserts, "In the Beginning was the Word and the word was with God and the Word was God" John portrays Jesus as the Son of God.
Acts - Written by Luke, Acts describes the coming of the Holy Spirit, the forming and persecution of the early church, the conversion and ministry of Paul, and the miraculous spread of Christianity.
Click here to Listen to the Bible as you read it.
This Weeks Study Guide. Week 11: Jesus There is good stuff here, don’t pass this by!
Here is the audio lesson . (You’ll need to log in!)
Please listen the lessons. I have the dvd’s but can’t post them here…copyright rules. We can discuss what you heard here as well. Listen while you cook, clean or are just taking time to enjoy this journey. I hope you’ll take advantage of this free resource. Listen towards the end of the 7 day time frame, as THIS would be what we would be watching/discussing if we were to be meeting weekly.
If you are seeing this for the first time, we started on June 1st, but you can start right now, just go to Session 1 and begin. Here is the main information page as well.
This week's reading schedule:
- Day 71 Matthew 26:57 - Mark 9:13
- Day 72 Mark 9:14 - Luke 1:80
- Day 73 Luke 2:1 - Luke 9:62
- Day 74 Luke 10:1 - luke 20:19
- Day 75 Luke 20:20 - John 5:47
- Day 76 John 6:1 - John 15:17
- Day 77 John 15:18 - Acts 6:7
Before we move completely out of the Old Testament, let's consider some "Minor" Prophets.
In the next 5 statements, there are 5 errors. Can you list and correct them?
- God instructs Obadiah to marry Gomer, a woman God knows will be unfaithful.
- Jonah is upset when he's swallowed by a big fish, but afterward he still doesn't carry out God's directive to prophesy to the Ninevites.
- The book of Habakkuk has nothing in common with the book of Job.
- Haggai 1:5-11 suggests that God doesn't react to the actioins of people.
- Malachi is the last book of the Old Testament.
The Old Testament contained many warnings. Have there been friends or loved ones in your life that have warn you about things but you've ignored it? Was there any possibility that this was God's way of getting your attention?
In Matthew 6, Jesus teaches about giving in secret. Have you given in secret during the past year? Spend a moment silently considering something you might secretly give in the near future.
Books you'll encounter this week:
Mark - The shortest of the four Gospels, Mark focuses on the ministry of Christ, beginning with his baptism by John the Baptist and ending with his resurrection.
Luke - Luke was a Gentile physician who traveled as a missionary with the Apostle Paul. He also wrote the book of Acts. In this Gospel, Luke provides "an orderly account" of the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus, highlighting Jesus relationship with many different kinds of people and emphasizing that Jesus came for all people, not just the Jews.
John - Harkening back to Genesis, the book of John Asserts, "In the Beginning was the Word and the word was with God and the Word was God" John portrays Jesus as the Son of God.
Acts - Written by Luke, Acts describes the coming of the Holy Spirit, the forming and persecution of the early church, the conversion and ministry of Paul, and the miraculous spread of Christianity.
Click here to Listen to the Bible as you read it.
This Weeks Study Guide. Week 11: Jesus There is good stuff here, don’t pass this by!
Here is the audio lesson . (You’ll need to log in!)
Please listen the lessons. I have the dvd’s but can’t post them here…copyright rules. We can discuss what you heard here as well. Listen while you cook, clean or are just taking time to enjoy this journey. I hope you’ll take advantage of this free resource. Listen towards the end of the 7 day time frame, as THIS would be what we would be watching/discussing if we were to be meeting weekly.
If you are seeing this for the first time, we started on June 1st, but you can start right now, just go to Session 1 and begin. Here is the main information page as well.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Session 10 - The Bible in 90 Days
Your heart should start rejoicing as we enter the New Testament this week! I know mine is! Keep going, don't give up. We are almost through the entire Bible! That should excite YOU!
This week's reading schedule:
If we were doing this in person as a discussion group, we would pick one of the following and do a presentation on it. I will list them for you with the HOPES that you'll choose one and dive in, learing more and hiding more of God's word in your heart. Enjoy!
Isaiah
Jeremiah:
Exekiel:
Daniel:
WHEWW...that is a lot to think about. But I hope you'll consider digging deeper and choosing at least one to learn more about.
Click here to Listen to the Bible as you read it.
This Weeks Study Guide. Week 10: Haggai There is good stuff here, don’t pass this by!
Here is the audio lesson . (You’ll need to log in!)
Please listen the lessons. I have the dvd’s but can’t post them here…copyright rules. We can discuss what you heard here as well. Listen while you cook, clean or are just taking time to enjoy this journey. I hope you’ll take advantage of this free resource. Listen towards the end of the 7 day time frame, as THIS would be what we would be watching/discussing if we were to be meeting weekly.
If you are seeing this for the first time, we started on June 1st, but you can start right now, just go to Session 1 and begin. Here is the main information page as well.
This week's reading schedule:
- Day 64 Daniel 9:1 - Hosea 13:6
- Day 65 Hosea 13:7 - Amos 9:10
- Day 66 Amos 9:11 - Nahum 3:19
- Day 67 Habakkuk 1:1 - Zechariah 10:12
- Day 68 Zechariah 11:1 - Matthew 4:25
- Day 69 Matthew 5:1 - Matthew 15:39
- Day 70 Matthew 16:1 - Matthew 26:56
If we were doing this in person as a discussion group, we would pick one of the following and do a presentation on it. I will list them for you with the HOPES that you'll choose one and dive in, learing more and hiding more of God's word in your heart. Enjoy!
Isaiah
- What periods are described in Isaiah and who was the original audience?
- Describe God's call of Isaiah (ch 6). Note that the seraph/seraphim are angels. Their name translates roughly as "burning ones." Consider this for your presentation.
- The following passages are often called the Servant Songs. What do they tell us?
- 42:1-4
- 49:1-6
- 50:4-9
- 52:13-53:12 (Isaiah 53:4-5 is a particularly good sommary.)
- Does 55: 8-9 describe holiness? What is being communicated by these verses?
- What is the main theme or message of the book of Isaiah?
Jeremiah:
- What period is described in Jeremiah, and who was the original audience?
- Jeremiah is sometimes called the "weeping prophet." How does 9:1 illustrate this description?
- See 18:1-11 for an important and particularly poignant image. Consider this for your visual presentation.
- What did the kings think of Jeremiah's warnings (36:20-26)
- What does 31:33 tell us?
- Does 29:11-14 sugest that there is any hope?
- What is a major theme of the book of Jeremiah
Exekiel:
- What period is described in Ezekiel and who was the original audience?
- The book of Ezekiel is known for the strange visions described in it. Consider the following for your visual presentation:
- The glory of God (chapter 1)
- The watchman (3:16-21)
- The valley of dry bones (37:1-14)
- Cherubim (10:9-14)
- Describe the prophecy of the new heart (36:26). What does it mean?
- What is a major theme of the book of Ezekiel?
Daniel:
- What period is described in Daniel and who was the original audience?
- Vegetarians no doubt are excited about Daniel's refusal oeat the Babylonian diet. Do you think there's any chance he was just trying to eat kosher (1:1-18)? What else might his refusal to eat from the king's table represent?
- Many popular sayings have their origin in the Bible. Two originate in Daniel. Describe these scenes and their significance and consider them for your visual presentation:
- Feet of clay (ch2)
- The handwriting on the wall (ch5)
- Daniel includes two important instances in which complete faith is demonstrated. Describe them and consider for your visual presentation.
- Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego and the fiery furnace (3:8-30)
- Daniel in the den of lions (6:6-28)
- What does Daniel 2:20-21 tellus about God's presence in the world?
- What is a major theme of the book of Daniel?
WHEWW...that is a lot to think about. But I hope you'll consider digging deeper and choosing at least one to learn more about.
Click here to Listen to the Bible as you read it.
This Weeks Study Guide. Week 10: Haggai There is good stuff here, don’t pass this by!
Here is the audio lesson . (You’ll need to log in!)
Please listen the lessons. I have the dvd’s but can’t post them here…copyright rules. We can discuss what you heard here as well. Listen while you cook, clean or are just taking time to enjoy this journey. I hope you’ll take advantage of this free resource. Listen towards the end of the 7 day time frame, as THIS would be what we would be watching/discussing if we were to be meeting weekly.
If you are seeing this for the first time, we started on June 1st, but you can start right now, just go to Session 1 and begin. Here is the main information page as well.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Session 9 - The Bible in 90 Days
At this point, my Bible reading wil be the Bible in 120 days. But, seriously, how bad can reading through the Bible in 120 days be? I generally read through it over the course of the entire year, but am finding this to be more helpful in getting me to read more. Even reading through the Bible 2 or 3 times a year has got to be very beneficial.
This weeks reading schedule:
Biblical prophecy is not just about predicting future events. Much of it serves a distinctly different purpose. It provides an inspired perspective on current events. Keep this in mind and as you think about the following 2 questions.
1. Use a word or brief phrase to capture Jeremiah's description of godly people in the following verses:
Do you agree with this list? What would you add or subtract from it?
2. What attributes of God are found in the following passages from Jeremiah?
Add in 2 other attributes of God not described in the passages above.
Isaiah 58 describes "fsting". Many Christians have never fasted. Have you ever fasted? If so, what was it like? What kind of fast did you do? If not, would you consider fasting? Is the sacrifice worth the effort?
Books you'll encounter this week:
Lamentations: Poetic laments concerning the destruction of Jerusalem.
Ezekiel: Initial prophecies warn of fall of Jerusalem. After the fall, he offers oracles of hope.
Daniel: Daniel and his 3 friends are exemplary representatives of God while in exile in Babylon. While there Daniel pens a number of long-range prophecies.
Are you behind in your reading? If so, keep moving. The main thing is to finish. It doesn't matter how long it takes you, just keep reading, enjoying, learning and soaking up God's wonderful word.
Click here to Listen to the Bible as you read it.
This Weeks Study Guide. Week 9: Daniel There is good stuff here, don’t pass this by!
Here is the audio lesson . (You’ll need to log in!)
Please listen the lessons. I have the dvd’s but can’t post them here…copyright rules. We can discuss what you heard here as well. Listen while you cook, clean or are just taking time to enjoy this journey. I hope you’ll take advantage of this free resource. Listen towards the end of the 7 day time frame, as THIS would be what we would be watching/discussing if we were to be meeting weekly.
If you are seeing this for the first time, we started on June 1st, but you can start right now, just go to Session 1 and begin. Here is the main information page as well.
This weeks reading schedule:
- Day 57 Jeremiah 33:23 - Jeremiah 47:7
- Day 58 Jeremiah 48:1 - Lamentations 1:22
- Day 59 Lamentations 2:1 - Ezekiel 12:20
- Day 60 Ezekiel 12:21 - Ezekiel 23:39
- Day 61 Ezekiel 23:39 - Ezekiel 35:15
- Day 62 Ezekiel 36:1 - Ezekiel 47:12
- Day 63 Ezekiel 47:13 - Daniel 8:27
Biblical prophecy is not just about predicting future events. Much of it serves a distinctly different purpose. It provides an inspired perspective on current events. Keep this in mind and as you think about the following 2 questions.
1. Use a word or brief phrase to capture Jeremiah's description of godly people in the following verses:
- 7:23
- 9:24
- 22:16
- 24:7
- 29:11
Do you agree with this list? What would you add or subtract from it?
2. What attributes of God are found in the following passages from Jeremiah?
- 27:4-6
- 31:1-4
- 31: 34b
- 32:40
Add in 2 other attributes of God not described in the passages above.
Isaiah 58 describes "fsting". Many Christians have never fasted. Have you ever fasted? If so, what was it like? What kind of fast did you do? If not, would you consider fasting? Is the sacrifice worth the effort?
Books you'll encounter this week:
Lamentations: Poetic laments concerning the destruction of Jerusalem.
Ezekiel: Initial prophecies warn of fall of Jerusalem. After the fall, he offers oracles of hope.
Daniel: Daniel and his 3 friends are exemplary representatives of God while in exile in Babylon. While there Daniel pens a number of long-range prophecies.
Are you behind in your reading? If so, keep moving. The main thing is to finish. It doesn't matter how long it takes you, just keep reading, enjoying, learning and soaking up God's wonderful word.
Click here to Listen to the Bible as you read it.
This Weeks Study Guide. Week 9: Daniel There is good stuff here, don’t pass this by!
Here is the audio lesson . (You’ll need to log in!)
Please listen the lessons. I have the dvd’s but can’t post them here…copyright rules. We can discuss what you heard here as well. Listen while you cook, clean or are just taking time to enjoy this journey. I hope you’ll take advantage of this free resource. Listen towards the end of the 7 day time frame, as THIS would be what we would be watching/discussing if we were to be meeting weekly.
If you are seeing this for the first time, we started on June 1st, but you can start right now, just go to Session 1 and begin. Here is the main information page as well.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Session 8 - The Bible in 90 Days
We just finished up Proverbs! Wise words to live by. I hope you enjoyed it and applied it where applicable. Some of them deal with our faith - "Trust in the LORD", some of them deal with our actions. They all speak to the heart and make us wiser for it. As you read, keep in mind there are 4 types of proverbs:
This Week's Reading Schedule:
Did you memorize a Psalm? Share that if you did. I love Ps. 46. Many know Ps 23. They are all awesome to hide in our heart.
Are you caught up on reading? If not, don't sweat it. I'm on target with listening, (I listen while I work) but this weekend....I have got to get some major catching up done on the reading.
Click here to Listen to the Bible as you read it.
This Weeks Study Guide. There is good stuff here, don't pass this by!
Here is the audio lesson . (You'll need to log in!)
Please listen the lessons. I have the dvd's but can't post them here...copyright rules. We can discuss what you heard here as well. Listen while you cook, clean or are just taking time to enjoy this journey. I hope you'll take advantage of this free resource. Listen towards the end of the 7 day time frame, as THIS would be what we would be watching/discussing if we were to be meeting weekly.
If you are seeing this for the first time, we started on June 1st, but you can start right now, just go to Session 1 and begin. Here is the main information page as well.
- Synonymous - the second line repeats the first line in a little different way
- Antithetical - the second line is contrary to the first line
- Synthertic - the second line adds to the idea of the first line
- Comparative - a truth is explained relative to some experience or something in nature
This Week's Reading Schedule:
- Day 50 - Isaiah 14:1 - Isaiah 28:29
- Day 51 - Isaiah 29:1 - Isaiah 41:18
- Day 52 - Isaiah 41:19 - Isaiah 52:12
- Day 53 - Isaiah 52:13 - Isaiah 66:18
- Day 54 - Isaiah 66:19 - Jeremiah 10:13
- Day 55 - Jeremiah 10:14 - Jeremiah 23:8
- Day 56 - Jeremiah 23:9 - Jeremiah 33:22
Did you memorize a Psalm? Share that if you did. I love Ps. 46. Many know Ps 23. They are all awesome to hide in our heart.
Are you caught up on reading? If not, don't sweat it. I'm on target with listening, (I listen while I work) but this weekend....I have got to get some major catching up done on the reading.
Click here to Listen to the Bible as you read it.
This Weeks Study Guide. There is good stuff here, don't pass this by!
Here is the audio lesson . (You'll need to log in!)
Please listen the lessons. I have the dvd's but can't post them here...copyright rules. We can discuss what you heard here as well. Listen while you cook, clean or are just taking time to enjoy this journey. I hope you'll take advantage of this free resource. Listen towards the end of the 7 day time frame, as THIS would be what we would be watching/discussing if we were to be meeting weekly.
If you are seeing this for the first time, we started on June 1st, but you can start right now, just go to Session 1 and begin. Here is the main information page as well.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
A Place of Healing
When I began listening to the audio version of A Place of Healing by Joni Eareckson Tada I listened, knowing that she had an amazing ministry to disabled people. I expected this book to be directed to towards physical healing, but quickly found out that it spoke very loudly to my heart. I have no physical disabilities, but found that healing is necessary, so I listened with an open heart and mind.
Listening to this book from a view point of hurt is painful, regardless of what kind it is; will help you to begin the healing that your heart requires. You may need physical healing and this book can and will speak loudly to you.
You may require other kind of healing, such as healing of your heart that is discouraged, discontent or depressed. You may need healing due to trust issues with someone you love deeply. You may need healing from knowing God’s will for your life and fear has gripped your soul so much so that you are afraid to step out and go forward with the plans that God has in-store for you.
One of my favorite quotes from Joni is:
Again, pain – regardless of the “kind of pain” hurts. Joni reminds us that God’s power always shows up in weakness and that pain and trials can lead to a heightened thirst for Christ.
Joni didn’t sugar coat any of the painful truth about living with chronic pain, daily hurts and disappointments and the question of how can this great pain benefit anyone, much less bring glory to the Lord? This book provides an honest look at dealing with any kind of hurt that you may need healing from.
If you are battling wave after wave of pain, hurt, sorrow or just feel like your heart will never sing again, I hope you’ll get this book, listen to it from a standpoint that hurt needs healing, regardless of what kind of hurt it is, and then – let the healing begin as you listen to an honest look at coming to a Place of healing.
This book is read by Joni, which is a treat. It’s very nicely done as she is use to speaking, teaching and talking to large groups of individuals.
Thank you to christianaudio for a complimentary copy of this book via the Reviewers program. I am not required to give a positive review of this book.
Christianaudio has a free audiobook for your downloading pleasure each and every month, as well as gift certificates for the audio book enthusiast in your world.
Listening to this book from a view point of hurt is painful, regardless of what kind it is; will help you to begin the healing that your heart requires. You may need physical healing and this book can and will speak loudly to you.
You may require other kind of healing, such as healing of your heart that is discouraged, discontent or depressed. You may need healing due to trust issues with someone you love deeply. You may need healing from knowing God’s will for your life and fear has gripped your soul so much so that you are afraid to step out and go forward with the plans that God has in-store for you.
One of my favorite quotes from Joni is:
I pray for strength to bare my pain, grace to benefit from it and devotion to offer it up to God as a sacrifice of praise.
Again, pain – regardless of the “kind of pain” hurts. Joni reminds us that God’s power always shows up in weakness and that pain and trials can lead to a heightened thirst for Christ.
Joni didn’t sugar coat any of the painful truth about living with chronic pain, daily hurts and disappointments and the question of how can this great pain benefit anyone, much less bring glory to the Lord? This book provides an honest look at dealing with any kind of hurt that you may need healing from.
If you are battling wave after wave of pain, hurt, sorrow or just feel like your heart will never sing again, I hope you’ll get this book, listen to it from a standpoint that hurt needs healing, regardless of what kind of hurt it is, and then – let the healing begin as you listen to an honest look at coming to a Place of healing.
This book is read by Joni, which is a treat. It’s very nicely done as she is use to speaking, teaching and talking to large groups of individuals.
Thank you to christianaudio for a complimentary copy of this book via the Reviewers program. I am not required to give a positive review of this book.
Christianaudio has a free audiobook for your downloading pleasure each and every month, as well as gift certificates for the audio book enthusiast in your world.
Friday, September 3, 2010
Strength and Courage
It takes strength to be firm; it takes courage to be gentle.
It takes strength to stand guard; it takes courage to let down your guard.
It takes strength to conquer; it takes courage to surrender.
It takes strength to feel a friend's pain; it takes courage to feel your own pain.
It takes strength to hide your own pains; it takes courage to show them.
It takes strength to endure abuse; it takes courage to stop it.
It takes strength to stand alone; it takes courage to lean on another.
It takes strength to love; it takes courage to be loved.
It takes strength to survive; it takes courage to live.
Author Unknown
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