Day 144 - New beginnings

2013 is almost over.  2014 is going to be a great year.  New job. New attitude.  New love for God. New friends. I came across a website. 365promises.com. It contains a daily verse of a promise of God and a short devotion.  I want to challenge you to go deeper in your walk with God.  He wants a relationship with you.  Not a "hi how are you, fine thanks" passing relationship. A jump off the cliff, peal back the layers kind of relationship.  The kind that will challenge you.  Change you. Fix you. Make you reach up to be the person God created you to be.  Are you scared?  Can you let go?  It would be a kind of experience you have never imagined.  One more thrilling than anything you have experienced so far.  This is my challenge to you.  If you don't know what to do, write me.  We can go through this together to get you in with God.  Nothing else in life will compare to this new way of life.

Ready.  Set  Go!    

Peace........

Day 140 - Merry Christmas!🎄🎄🎄

My family had a wonderful Christmas.  There wasn't any toy to put together the night before.  We didn't have a child waking us up all night because they couldn't sleep.  Cliff and I woke up first. We had to wake up the kids.  So the timing was perfect.  I made the easiest cinnamon rolls out of biscuits courtesy of Pinterest.  The opening of presents was very relaxing.  Everyone got what they wanted but it wasn't overdone.   The real joy of the day came when we went with friends to three different nursing homes and sang carols to the residents.  We met the nicest people in the world today.  Many sang along with us.  We mixed jingle bells and frosty with O Come All Ye Faithful and Silent Night.  Nicole sang solos and sounded like an Angel.  The mother of our friends spent months making little Rudolph's filled with chocolate kisses that was given out to the residents. The last gentleman we sang to cried at the end of silent night.  Another gentleman's daughter came up and told our friend what a great thing we did.  He father's first day was today.  He loved the singing and sang with us during all of the songs.  We thought he had to have sung in a choir but he said he just liked to sing.  His daughter said it helped him a lot to feel more at home.  They all welcomed hugs, smiles, and love.

Jesus came as a gift to us.  The best gift we could ever get.  He came to help the weak, the poor, and the needy.  We are called to be like Jesus and love God and love others.  Both Cliff and I agree today that this Christmas is one of the most meaniful of all because of the joy we got while sharing the love of Christ with others today.  

My prayer for you today and everyday is that you know the love of Christ.  That this love will fill your heart mind and soul so that it overflows toward those around you.  Give yourself away.  Be kind to those around you.  Go out of your comfort zone.  Be God's hands and feet.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Day 137 - Inner Joy

Do you have inner joy?  It is the knowing that no matter what is going on,  you have the confidence that God is with you, protecting you and taking care of your life.  Will you have struggles and sorrow?  Yes. Life happens.  The world around us continues. We experience ups and downs.  We get sick.  We loose jobs.  We experience losses of loved ones.  But God loves us so much.  We celebrate his love by the birth of Jesus.  He came down to be the sacrificial lamb for our sin.  God is with us now in this life.  His promises tell us what he will do.  Because of this we can be at peace and have an inner joy so filled with love that we are protected and free within the trials of this world.  Take a moment this Christmas to find your inner joy.  Rest in God's promises from his word.  Share your joy with those around you.  

I have a fun song for you to celebrate your joy.  It is for kids, but says it so clearly why we have 

J to the O to the Y!!!  

Peace....

http://youtu.be/uY03LAOc1ro.  ( paste into you tube)

Day 134 - Plans

I have a new job.  God worked out an amazing timeline for me to transition to my next job.  It was an awesome experience.  My last job was not going to be able to accommodate my needs.  The new job came up out of the blue with a recruiter who did not know I was looking for a job.  It was so perfectly timed that God could have only been the one to do this.  Everyone I work with are Christians.  The  job is so closely related to my skills.  It is just so amazing.  I love the way God works things out in our lives. 

Take time to know how God can make things happen in your life.  It changes everything.  

Peace

Day 123 - Healing

I wanted to share scripture for healing.  We all know people in our lives we can pray for.  Lift your hearts and prayer requests up to The Lord.  He hears our requests.  

May your heart rest in the faith he has placed in your heart.

Romans 10 tells us that faith comes from hearing and hearing from the word of Christ. To help us believe God for healing oursleves, our friends and our families it helps to have a good grasp of the Scriptures concerning healing. These Scriptures are small enough to be written on a business card sized bit of paper, carried around and memorised. 1. (Exodus 15:26 NKJV) and said, "If you diligently heed the voice of the LORD your God and do what is right in His sight, give ear to His commandments and keep all His statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you which I have brought on the Egyptians. For I am the LORD who heals you." 2. (Deuteronomy 32:39 NKJV) 'Now see that I, even I, am He, And there is no God besides Me; I kill and I make alive; I wound and I heal; Nor is there any who can deliver from My hand. 3. (2 Chronicles 7:14 NKJV) "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 I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. 4. (Psalms 30:2 NKJV) O LORD my God, I cried out to You, And You healed me. 5. (Psalms 6:2 NKJV) Have mercy on me, O LORD, for I am weak; O LORD, heal me, for my bones are troubled. 6. (Psalms 103:1-4 NKJV) Bless the LORD, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name! {2} Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits: {3} Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, {4} Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, 7. (Psalms 107:20 NKJV) He sent His word and healed them, And delivered them from their destructions. 8. (Psalms 147:3 NKJV) He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds. 9. (Proverbs 3:7-8 NKJV) Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the LORD and depart from evil. {8} It will be health to your flesh, And strength to your bones. 10. (Proverbs 4:20-22 NKJV) My son, give attention to my words; Incline your ear to my sayings. {21} Do not let them depart from your eyes; Keep them in the midst of your heart; {22} For they are life to those who find them, And health to all their flesh. 11. (Isaiah 53:5 NKJV) But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed. 12. (Isaiah 58:8 NKJV) Then your light shall break forth like the morning, Your healing shall spring forth speedily, And your righteousness shall go before you; The glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard. 13. (Isaiah 61:1 NKJV) "The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon Me, Because the LORD has anointed Me To preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives, And the opening of the prison to those who are bound; 14. (Jeremiah 3:22 NKJV) "Return, you backsliding children, And I will heal your backslidings." "Indeed we do come to You, For You are the LORD our God. 15. (Jeremiah 17:14 NKJV) Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; Save me, and I shall be saved, For You are my praise. 16. (Jeremiah 30:17 NKJV) For I will restore health to you And heal you of your wounds,' says the LORD, 'Because they called you an outcast saying: "This is Zion; No one seeks her."' 17. (Jeremiah 33:6 NKJV) 'Behold, I will bring it health and healing; I will heal them and reveal to them the abundance of peace and truth. 18. (Hosea 6:1 NKJV) Come, and let us return to the LORD; For He has torn, but He will heal us; He has stricken, but He will bind us up. 19. (Hosea 14:4 NKJV) "I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely, For My anger has turned away from him. 20. (Malachi 4:2 NKJV) But to you who fear My name The Sun of Righteousness shall arise With healing in His wings; And you shall go out And grow fat like stall-fed calves. 21. (Matthew 4:23 NKJV) And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people. 22. (Matthew 8:13 NKJV) Then Jesus said to the centurion, "Go your way; and as you have believed, so let it be done for you." And his servant was healed that same hour. 23. (Matthew 8:16 NKJV) When evening had come, they brought to Him many who were demon-possessed. And He cast out the spirits with a word, and healed all who were sick, 24. (Matthew 9:35 NKJV) Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. 25. (Matthew 10:1 NKJV) And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him, He gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease. 26. (Matthew 10:8 NKJV) "Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give. 27. (Matthew 12:22 NKJV) Then one was brought to Him who was demon-possessed, blind and mute; and He healed him, so that the blind and mute man both spoke and saw. 28. (Matthew 14:14 NKJV) And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick. 29. (Luke 6:19 NKJV) And the whole multitude sought to touch Him, for power went out from Him and healed them all. 30. (Luke 9:6 NKJV) So they departed and went through the towns, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.(The twelve are sent out) 31. (Luke 10:8-9 NKJV) "Whatever city you enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you. {9} "And heal the sick there, and say to them, 'The kingdom of God has come near to you.'(The seventy are sent out) 32. (Luke 17:15 NKJV) And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned, and with a loud voice glorified God,(The story of the ten lepers) 33. (Acts 3:12 NKJV) So when Peter saw it, he responded to the people: "Men of Israel, why do you marvel at this? Or why look so intently at us, as though by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk? 34. (Healing of the lame man at the Gate Beautiful) (Acts 4:29-31 NKJV) "Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, {30} "by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus." {31} And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness. 35. (1 Corinthians 12:9 NKJV) to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, 36. (James 5:14-16 NKJV) Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. {15} And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. {16} Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. 37. (Revelation 22:2 NKJV) In the middle of its street, and on either side of the river, was the tree of life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. 38. (Luke 8:47 NKJV) Now when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling; and falling down before Him, she declared to Him in the presence of all the people the reason she had touched Him and how she was healed immediately. 39. (Luke 8:48 NKJV) And He said to her, "Daughter, be of good cheer; your faith has made you well. Go in peace." 40. (Luke 5:17 NKJV) Now it happened on a certain day, as He was teaching, that there were Pharisees and teachers of the law sitting by, who had come out of every town of Galilee, Judea, and Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was present to heal them.

Day 121 - Jehovah Jireh

God is our provider.  I am blessed to say that both my husband and I are living proof of this.  We are both starting new jobs in the next few weeks.  Cliff's job is unique. He is a jewelry appraiser.  He knew he wanted to seek something he could utilize his skill full time.  He got his graduate gemologist a few years back.  Out of the blue he found a company doing full time appraisals within established jewelry stores.  He did not contact them for several months. He finally made the call and found out the owner was working on getting stores set up in Georgia and would need an appraiser for this territory.  He met with him and was offered the job that day.  God is our provider.

With me, if you have been reading I chose to step down from my position because of the hours and time involved in the position.  I knew my company would move me into another position.  But the planned ending date was fast approaching with no job.  On my way to work I asked God to show me very clearly where I should go and what will be done.  That day a recruiter called out of the blue and let me know of position almost identical to mine but withou travel and international.  During the interview I was amazed at the company and knew my skills would fit well.  I was offered the job.  God is our provider.  I know how awesome and amazing it is for us to both get jobs after only pursuing one interview.  God is our provider.  We have many friends and family who have prayed with us during this time.

We know the power of God and that his promises are true.  Thanks God.  You are so amazing.

Day 120 - John 21

I was listening to Joseph Prince this morning.  I don't believe he is from the south because he doesn't speak as slow as us southerners.  After your brain adjusts to his rate of speech I really love the message God has put in his heart.  

In our small group we have been studying about the Holy Spirit and have been challenged to fully surrendering to Christ.  Some if not most of us discuss openly about how hard we find this to be.  The author, Francis Chan, challenges us to do more and dive in more and fully receive all that God has for us.  We all keep using the example, what if God calls you to drop everything and go to Africa.  Would we all do this?  Do we fear so much that God will do something we believe we cannot do?

Joseph Prince revealed the scripture in John 21 this morning.  Read this passage.  Jesus has returned several times after his resurection. In this passage Jesus is on the shore and some of his disciples are fishing.  Jesus could have come back and done anything in power and might.  But Jesus cooked breakfast for them.  Did you hear that?  Jesus is doing something very simple and ordinary.  Joseph Prince notes in his sermon, that it is the normal, small, daily, things we doing that is so significant for the kingdom.  God needs us everywhere and has placed us here and now in a place to reveal Jesus to the world.  

The other thing Joseph discusses is when Jesus asks Simon Peter if he loves him.  Again,  Jesus asked this to the one disciple that denied him three times.  What a blessing that Jesus will forgive and use us when we fail or do not feel worthy to be used.

God wants us for ordinary daily things within our group of influence so God can take this and do the extra-ordinary.

God will use us even when we fall.  He loves us too much to loose us.

Make the commitment to God today.  

     Pray that you can be used in the ordinary.  

           Ask for him to reveal in your heart his love and forgiveness.  

                  Expect a miracle.  Make a difference.

John 21:1-19 Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Galilee. It happened this way: Simon Peter, Thomas also known as Didymus, Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. “I’m going out to fish,” Simon Peter told them, and they said, “We’ll go with you.” So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus. He called out to them, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?”“No,” they answered. He said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish. Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, “It is the Lord,” he wrapped his outer garment around him for he had taken it off and jumped into the water. The other disciples followed in the boat, towing the net full of fish, for they were not far from shore, about a hundred yards. When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread. Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish you have just caught.” So Simon Peter climbed back into the boat and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn. Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” None of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. Jesus came, took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. This was now the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead. When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”“Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.”Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.”Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.” The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!” 

May the Holy Spirit be revealed in your heart today.  Peace.......

Day 119 - You

Life is such an amazing journey.  Life is to be lived and loved.  Sometimes our journey takes us down a different road.  But whatever road you end up on, you can live with love and happiness and peace.  Where we are is not what defines us.  It is our heart and mind and our belief in ourselves.  God has made us all super amazing.  No one may believe this about you, but you have to believe it about your self.  Do you realize how much God loves you and the creation and uniqueness of your spirit?  We are all made to love.  We are all created in God's image.  We are all created to have a beautiful real relationship with God.  Life is very short in our world.  We can become bitter and focused on what went wrong or why things happen.  Or....we can release the worldly issues and give the rest of your time to living as God created us to become.  Jesus came so that we may have life.  Life eternally and beautiful life right now in spite of our current circumstances.  Do you believe you can live a beautiful life?  Is there something you need to change in order to do this?  Everyone, no matter how old or how far away from God can be changed.  Make this Christmas your time to change.  Make a difference and believe in yourself.  Love yourself enough to change.  

Day 118 - Emmanuel

Emmanuel means God with us.  One of my all time favorite Christmas carols is "O Come O Come Emmanuel".  One of the reasons I like it so much is because of it's haunting melody in a minor key. This led me to download a 1998 album called Irish Christmas.  I went crazy last year downloading Christmas music on ITunes.  I didn't really listen to this album other than my favorite song.  Tonight, on the treadmill I listened to the songs from Irish Christmas.  They were so refreshingly different and beautiful.  But also so different that I heard the message of Emmanuel in the music.  In Silent Night, instead of singing Christ the savior is born, they sang Christ the redeemer is here.  Two words changed my perception.  Christ is here. God with us.  Emmanuel.  I love the music and got the decorating itch from my mother.  It is such a fun time and so enjoy this season.  But I pray that you know the meaning of Emmanuel this Christmas.  Another Song is called Crying For The World.  Here are a few lines from this song.

O, my child you cry so many tears

Seems like you've been crying for the world

O, my child you seem so full of fear

Seems like you've been crying for the world

God loves you so much that he not only wept for you but died to save you.

He hears you and is with you at this very moment.

If you are hurting, Emmanuel

If you lost your job, Emmanuel 

If you suffer from illness, Emmanuel

If you are lonely, Emmanuel

If you are broke, Emmanuel

If you lost a loved one, Emmanuel

Get to know God a little bit more this season.  May you be filled with His everlasting love and presence.

Joshua 1:5 No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. 

Day 114 - Happy Thanksgiving!

I hope that during the midst of all the hoopla of this holiday you took time to say a big Thanks to God for all of your blessings.  My family got to go up to visit Aunt Kathy.  We had a great time visiting even though very short.  It was good to spend time with family.  

We can always have something to be thankful for.  The best is for the people around us to love and be loved.

Peace...

Day 109 - Give

It's the season for giving.  Love can be expressed by how we treat those around us.  We are called to be the light in the darkness. I think there is a lot of darkness, sadness, hopelessness, suffering, and pain.  What if we all gave ourselves away every day?  Giving doesn't have to be monetary. Think how you can give encouragement, laughter, kindness, prayers, and love.  Focus on your family. How do you treat them, encourage them, speak to them and love them day to day.  It is never too late to change the way you treat those around you. Ask God to reveal to you where you can make a difference today and give of yourself to others.  Do random acts of kindness to strangers.  Share the love of Christ today.  Let this be a life changing Christmas season that will effect the way you love others in the world.

John 15:11 “I’ve told you these things for a purpose: that my joy might be your joy, and your joy wholly mature. This is my command: Love one another the way I loved you. This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends. You are my friends when you do the things I command you. I’m no longer calling you servants because servants don’t understand what their master is thinking and planning. No, I’ve named you friends because I’ve let you in on everything I’ve heard from the Father. 

Day 108 - Now

I am always looking ahead. I am somewhat of a worrier.  I want to know the plan.  I don't like being in limbo.  Chaos makes me nervous. You probably are picking up on my issues. Most of the things I obsess over really don't matter and won't matter at all years from now. Living for now and enjoying each day does matter.  Slowing down and experiencing the moment with the ones you love matters. Spending time with God matters.   I think a good question to ask yourself at bedtime is if what you did today mattered?  Did you share your love with someone?  This Christmas season focus every day on the moment and seek out chances to spread the love to those around you.

Deuteronomy 10:12 So now Israel, what do you think God expects from you? Just this: Live in his presence in holy reverence, follow the road he sets out for you, love him, serve God, your God, with everything you have in you, obey the commandments and regulations of God that I’m commanding you today—live a good life. 

Peace...

Day 106 - Ordinary

Life can be vey ordinary. I have a pretty normal schedule at work and at home.  We eat the same things.  We watch tv at the same time. Exercise during certain times. In all of this there are moments where within the ordinary God will be able to use us for his plan and purpose.  There could be many opportunities to be used by God in the ordinary moments of life.  How do we make ourselves ready?  In our small group we talked about this.  We all agreed:

1.  Read God's Word.

2.  Meditate and pray daily.

3.  Remove our own desires and seek the desires of God in your heart.

4.  Ask God for clear guidance. 

5.  When he calls us, be bold and do it.

You may not see any results.  But trust God and obey.

Peace....

Day 100 - Coconuts

I have never tried to crack open a coconut. But I know it is very hard.  I went and looked on the internet and of course there are many instructional sites and you tube videos to get the job done. After reading the instructions I think I could crack it open eventually.  Now if I was stuck on the deserted island,  I would probably have more problems cracking it open. I won't even go into trying to climb the tree to get one that hasn't fallen to the ground.  

Now think of us as the coconut and God the one who wants to have a relationship with you.  But the coconut, or we, have to be open and ready for him to come into our hearts and minds.  God wants nothing more than to love each and everyone of us and have a real relationship.  What is keeping you closed up like a coconut?  Are you too busy for him?  Do you not know how to find this relationship?  Do you have sin overtaking your life?  Are you more into worldly possessions than eternal?  

Our priorities will quickly tell us what we value most in our lives.  

My priorities were drawing me too far away from my family and God.  Work was great but it wasn't what really mattered to me when I reviewed the way my life was going.  I got to go to China, Europe, and Japan.  I was involved in all the important meetings and decisions of the company.  Many friends and family were impressed with my accomplishments. But what was really important?  Being home for my daughter when she got home from school.  Being able to take time to exercise and work on my health. Taking time to study the word of God and draw nearer to Him.  Be ready to go and do what God wants me to do for the kingdom.  I was talking to a coworker today and he was asking me what I was doing with Nicole after school now that she is in middle school. I told him I stepped down from my position so I could leave and be there for my daughter after school.   He was a little shocked but I could see that he understood where I was coming from. 

Yes there will be less money, no trips, no being in the top group with all the decisions.  But I believe my decision was the best thing I could have done.  Life is very short. Make sure your priorities are in the right order.  It really will make a difference in the end.

Ephesians 1:18-20 I pray that God will open your minds to see his truth. Then you will know the hope that he has chosen us to have. You will know that the blessings God has promised his holy people are rich and glorious. And you will know that God’s power is very great for us who believe. It is the same as the mighty power he used to raise Christ from death and put him at his right side in the heavenly places. 

Peace and blessings to you!

Day 98 - blessings

A friend in our small group shared how she spent time with a younger woman who just got out of prison.  You could tell as she described the visit the compassion she had for this person.  She doesn't have a job, is living with her mom, and is now seeking to make it in this world after being in prison for 6 years.  This woman spoke many times about God.  I was impressed with the courage this woman had in facing this new life.  I was also impressed with my friend's desire in sharing time with her. God calls us to love and be a message of hope those around us.  I have never met anyone who has been in prison.  Most people I meet are like me.  Middle class, working, house, kids, pets.  Linda, your love showed through today.  May you be blessed.

God commanded us to love just as He first loved you.

Love has no condition, love in all you say and do.

Look through you eyes with love inside

The your heart will see.

That when you help the least of them

You're really helping me.

The Father loved the world so much 

He gave His only son

He showed us in the life He lived 

Of how we should become

An imitation of the Father's love

An imitation of the Father's love

Love is patient love is kind

Love never fails

Abide in love through sacrifice

Let's God's love prevail 

Boundless and eternal

The fragrance God desires

Light the world 

Spread the flame

Love is what's required

Day 94 - Near

Take time to discover how to best lift up the spirits of those around you.  This is where life matters.  The day to day moment to moment living with those you are with the most.  We do make a difference in how we act, listen, serve, and love.  

Day 89 - Living Letter

Wow!   This is amazing.  We are a letter written with the Spirit of the Living God. Can others read your letter through your life?

Peace...

Day 88 - Focus

I can honestly say I have not been the most focused at the moment.  I am returning this week to what I began doing.  Good healthy food, water, exercise, family, simplifying, and God.  
Distractions happen so easily for me.  One of the issues I have had is being a little under the weather.  It is just enough to be annoying and effecting the schedule.  I am almost over this now and should be back to my usual self.  I don't have a driven nature.  I seem to crumble during stress times.  I am not sure what I can do to overcome these things other than keeping the focus going. 
Church had a good verse for me.  

Phillipians 3:12-14  12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. 

Peace....

Day 81 - Surroundings

Our small group has been having good discussions about The Forgotton God.  It is a study on the Holy Spirit. I know change is happening within me.  I have opened my heart to how God wants me to interact with others in this world.  It is about loving everyone no matter what and being all about the fruit of the spirit.  The good news is that the Holy Spirit will bring out these traits.  When we exhibit love, patience, joy, peace, others will want to understand how we have this in the world.  That will be the opportunity to let them know about Jesus.  We need more examples of Christ. The kind that others want to know the secret to your happiness and joy.  Are you one of those people?  It is good to find other believers who want to be disciples of Christ. To know that even though a sinner, we can be changed by the power of the Holy Spirit living in our hearts. It is a continuing journey that we must continually seek out in our lives. Find the simplicity of Christ and follow Him. 

Peace......

Day 77 - Understanding

My dearest friends and family,

Wouldn't it be great to understand everything?  I think some of the biggest issues we have in our lives is over misunderstanding what is going on around us. Our little minds like to wander off and assume. Instead of asking or trying to understand we make our own conclusions about something.  Emails in our company have been the worst. People can read an email and put there own tone and inflection on the subject.  Anyone who has a busy, say it quickly, response usually always comes across as too direct and a little mean.  I like those kind of emails and I used to write emails like that. I have now gotten to add the little helpful words in all my emails.  I have been doing the check runs for our accounts payable.  The typical accounts payable person is usually not the happiest because they are getting screamed at for payments from the vendors.  When I sent out the emails for the remittance of the wires I added to the subject, "We appreciate your service!"  I got back very many emails saying thank you. I guess that proves that a little kindness can go a long way. If you really want people to understand you, then make sure you always mean what you say.  Also, make sure you say it often, too.

So if anyone is reading this, thank you so much for your time.  I appreciate you. Please take a moment to comment if you have time.  

Best Regards,  

Warmest Wishes,

Sincerely,

Love,

Peace,

Forever,

Day 75 - Bumming

I have been down lately so I leave you with this song by Tenth Avenue North. By Your Side. I think the only way to view is to copy and paste in URL  

Peace...

http://pinterest.com/pin/119908408800541382/

Day 74 - Patience

I am not very good at patience. I like the instant gratification idea.  I have learned during this journey that patience is a virtue. When you are trying to change you wished it would go faster than it does.  I notice small changes from week to week. But patiently taking every day and making my life a little bit better is good.  Patience is something we really have to teach our younger generation. They have no concept of being patient. The internet and phones have created an environment of get now, get it instantly.  Even our food we can get it instantly.  I told my husband we are going to go camping soon and take our daughter. This maybe a great idea or a really bad nightmare.  But it might be an opportunity to slow down, and let life happen and connect with each other and the environment.  

Peace...

Day 73 - Step

When I walk on the treadmill, I listen to music.  I cover up the statistics and time on the treadmill because I get fixated with getting to the 30 minute mark. I usually try to get songs that are 5 minutes or longer to pace out my time. Someday it is very easy to get through my session. Other days seems to take forever. I will peek at the time and see 18:00. Ugh, not long enough.  But little by little and step by step I am improving my health and my life.  Start. Move. Go. Forward. Step.  Keep moving toward to goal.

Peace.....

Day - 72 Now

Have you ever said the "we shoulda, coulda woulda" phrase.  Or the "I wished I had...." Phrase. Or "If I could do it all over" phrase. Or "if I knew then what I know now" phrase.   I think we have all said this at one time or another.   What we need to do is learn from our life and then move on.  The thing is you can start now to be person you want to be. Or do the things you want to do. The past does not stop the present.  Keep focused on who you want to be or become and then do it.  

Peace.....

Day 71 - Encourage

Life is about loving through encouragement.  We can touch lives everyday and bring encouragement and joy to all around us.  We are called to be set apart.  I can say that sometimes you would never know I was a Christian as my behavior was no different from the non-Christians around me.  To be set apart is rising above the worldly ways.  I believe we must surround ourselves with the word and meditate about how we should live like Jesus.  Once we believe and accept the presence of the Holy Spirit within us, we can let the Spirit take over where we are weak.  It is no longer about winning, or being right, or proving your point.  It is all about sharing your love with everyone around you.  By your example people will see your difference.  You will be able to lead by example. God needs strong examples of Jesus-like people in this world today.  People no matter what circumstance are righteous and holy and pleasing to God.  Step deeper into your faith.  I challenge you to raise yourself to the next level in your journey with God.  Forget the past and only look ahead on your journey.  Your reward will be , "We'll done good and faithful servant!"

Peace...  

Day 70 - Fall

I love Fall.  I loved it most in the Midwest when the leaves were such vivid colors and the temps got cooler.  The summer days are good but nothing beats a nice fall afternoon. Football.  Hot chocolate.  Pumpkins.  Throws.  So comfy and cozy.  My dad preached a lot of sermons. I can't say I remember them at all. But one time he took a picture of a tree every day as the leaves started to turn. He described the beauty of the change and the colors that came and went. I will have to ask him what that was about because I don't remember anything else.  Maybe it's that just as God creates the tree, he also creates us and we change from season to season with God making us into a vivid masterpiece of love.  I think I will ask my dad if he remembers.  I will let you know.

Peace

Day 69 - Fruit

I have really tried to put my heart toward the fruits of the spirit.  In the Bible it is found in Galatians 5. 

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit that the Spirit produces in a person’s life is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these kinds of things. 

This week my daughter and I have got to spend some time together.  It has been fun for both of us.  I have tried to teach her that unconditional love is how we should live and this is the key to happiness.  I pray for her a spirit of love and all of the fruits of the spirit.  School is not the easiest place to test this.  But it is God whom I trust to walk with her everyday when we cannot.  

Peace..

Day 68 - Lean on me

Everyone needs help at some point in their life.  We will need help. So don't be afraid to ask your friends and family for help.   To love and be loved is the most important thing in the world.  So make sure you let someone know when you need a hand.   Keep looking for your opportunities to help the world one person at a time. 

Peace...

Day 66 - Balance

Last night reminded, me how important balance is in my life. My daughter spent the night at a friends and got scared of a dog barking and things going bump in the night. I got to text her for an hour while she was up at 3:30 in the morning. I wasn't a happy camper in the morning. I gotta have my beauty sleep. I like things to go as planned and don't do very well when the unexpected takes place.  I need the balance of sleep, work, and family. It is important for me to know my limits so I can be a productive member of society. Not really even society, just around the family. As I write this I am yawning.   Planning and doing what you plan always works best for me.  Sometimes life just happens.

Peace...

Day 65 - Broken

I have been living in an euphoric state lately since getting back in communion with God.  I do not ever want to drift away from His presence the way I did.  God is forgiving and he will openly accept us back however far we fall.  In the midst of all this the reality of the work is upon us.  As much as it is good to stand and worship in the presence of God, He calls us to help the lost and suffering of those around us.  We never have to go too far to find a person in need of God's love and healing.  That is our mission. To go into the world and spread His message.  The greatest part of this is that it is God who is saving.  You are the instrument to seek the lost.  Never give up on anyone or anything that God can fix.  We can go boldly into the broken world and let the lost find God. It doesn't have to be Africa or some foreign mission trip.  The lost are all around us.  Desperate for a Savior.

Peace is for everyone 

Day 63 - Surrender

We have started our small group on Tuesday nights.  We are studying the Holy Spirit from the Forgotton God series by Francis Chan.  Our discussion went to if we have felt moved by the Holy Spirit.  I had shared that some years back I had a very strong connection with God and felt the presence of the Holy Spirit move within my life.  I do not feel this close now as I did years back.  Someone asked why?  I said it was life creeping back into my attention.  But, after thinking about this for awhile, it had to do with one action.   Surrender.  God asks us to surrender our lives so that he can lead us and we can be used according to his purpose and plan.  Surrender.  Giving up your control and what you think God wants and turning your life over to him.  Surrender.  It isn't a kind of partial sometime kind of decision.  It is a life changing, God inspiring, radical thinking, satisfying leap of faith.
We all know that God keeps his promises.  So let go and surrender.

Peace and Surrender........

Day 62 - Relax

Our house is busy. Time moves faster than we have to get it all done.  I want to make our home a relaxing positive place to have peace from the chaos. Sponge Bob, dogs barking, music playing and life get in the way.  In order to get to our goals no matter what we want we have to consciously work to achieve what we want.   I think our children have way too much stimulation around them. The tweets, texts, FaceTime, videos, music all create an environment to never calm the mind down.  We are going to make an effort to turn off the noise and distractions so that our minds can relax.  

May you find your peace and quiet........

Day 61 - Free Your Mind

Why do we complicate our lives.  Jesus made everything so simple.  We need to go back to His teachings in the bible and just relax and let what he tells us to do soak into our minds.  We have very cluttered minds.  Have you ever tried to sit still and do nothing without thinking?  It is very hard.  Yet we must let our thoughts out so that God can enter in.  I am a fan of the contemporary christian worship scene.  Many do not like the repetitive singing over and over and over again of one phrase.  The next time you are listening to a song or in a worship service where a song has a repetitive phrase, take this time to treat it in a meditative way.  By singing the phrase over and over you can clear your mind of the unnecessary thoughts in your head and allow yourself to hear from God.  Just as the Buddhist repeats ohmmmmmmm and plays a gong over and over, or when we meditate we focus on our breathing,  it is a way to let out your thoughts. Once we free our minds, we just might hear a word or two from God.

Peace and love be yours.............

Day 60 - 16%

Well I am 16% through my year long journey.  Some things are going well.  Others, I seem to continually struggle with.

One of them is my water.  I can't seem to drink enough every day.  I am hooked on coffee.  So coffee on the way to work and usually two cups throughout the day.  I really need to get off the coffee and switch to the water.  If anyone has any ideas to help, let me know.  I will take all of your suggestions.  I actually like the taste of water.  I don't need to mask it with any flavor.  It is once again, making it a habit.
21 days to a habit right?  Starting now I should be able to have this licked by the end of October.

Speaking of October.  I love to decorate for Halloween.  Most people have gotten away from this ghoulish holiday.  I think it is rather fun for the children and us adult kids.  We will start the fun this weekend on the decorations.

As promised, here is the finished front door project.  I was looking through my pictures for the before and after and saw that my mom had the same color on her house at one time.  Great minds think alike.

Peace.....

Day 59 - Banana Cream..................

I know what you are thinking.  NO, Becky!  Don't do it!!!! Don't eat the banana cream pie!!!!!!!  Well I did not.
Banana Cream is the color we picked out for our Front Door.  I think I would love to be in marketing for a paint store to pick out and name all of the colors.  Wouldn't that be fun?  Just from the description you are going to know what color our door is.  It looks like banana pudding without the bananas of course.  Our door was a dark hunter green that matched the shutters.  I have never liked the color so for about 6 months I have been looking at different colors for the front door.  I picked this color out about 4 months ago and got this and another shade to test.  Banana Cream beat out After Glow.  After Glow was too Dark.  So today we painted not realizing the time to dry between coats.  So I have been putting a fan to speed up the process.  Of course, I did not take the door down.  Who has time for that?  But we did take off the door knob, key knob and got a new door knocker and brass plate.  I picked the yellow to bring cheeriness to the front porch.  It is very pleasant.  
I love to redecorate.  I like change and get tired of the old way of doing things.  I get this from my mom.  Change is good.  My journey has been good.  I have realized many things about myself that I can change for the better.  We all have things we can improve upon in ourselves.  Some things are out in the open for the world to comment on and discuss.  Other things are very private that only you may know what you want to change.  Our mind, thoughts, and actions can all change for the better.  Look for something you need to change and make it happen.  I will show the pick of the door once completed.

Peace......

Day 58 - Clean

I am sitting in the Buford Community Center while my daughter takes an acting class. The lobby is so beautiful. It is also so clean. No stuff. Can a house be like this and still be lived in?  I have never been able to find a place for everything and have my house be presentable for anyone to drop in unannounced. First there is the dog situation. Two dogs. One sheds. The other has problems with where the bathroom is located. Then we have the humans who live in the house. I would say my husband is the neatest of us all. I think it is a draw between the rest of us.  Why do we have to have so much stuff?  I am going to make October clean up month. I will start with the downstairs. Then move into my room and my closet. I read a book on simple living. It says we should live with one fork, one spoon, one knife, one plate, and one glass for each person in the home. I told my mom about this about ten years ago because she has so much stuff. She couldn't comprehend the concept and thought it so hilarious. To this day we still laugh about this.  My mom has her everyday silverware and then two complete sets of goldware. Yes, that is actual gold plated service for eight that a bank gave away back in the 70's. She has her good silverware. I don't even know how many sets of dishes she has accumulated over the years. Or glasses. Or coffee mugs. But here is the crazy part. My moms house, with all of her stuff always is much more presentable than my house would ever be.  So I guess it's not about how much stuff you have. It's where you put it. Or rather don't put it that matters.  I am not an organizer. Which you would think all accountants are anal and have to be super organized. I guess I broke the mold on that one.  

Conclusion. I will get rid of stuff I no longer use. And try to organize the remaining stuff so my house will be presentable if company drops by on the spot. Also be neat enough so hubby can be at peace. 

Peace.      

Day 57. Fell asleep

I fell asleep on this night and did not get to blog.

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Peace.............................

Day 56 - Validation

It is amazing to me how much our thoughts and feelings are tied to what we want others to think about us.  The validation we strive for in life begins at such an early age. First with our parents. Then teachers. Then peers. Our husbands. Our co-workers and our bosses.  True acceptance needs only to come from within. What we believe about ourselves is what matters.  Everything else doesn't matter. 

I am good with the thought that I am who validates me as a human.  I live to please God, my creator.  See your inner beauty and let that picture transform you from within.  Let go of the outside influence of what others say you are.  The only thing that matters is you inner validation and acceptance of yourself.

May you find your peace and love from within.

Day 55 - Trust

I am in the home stretch of my job transition. I have put my trust in God that all things will work according to his plans. It is times like these that puts everything in perspective as to why I have chosen to step back in career.  We were on day 4 of inventory. Normally we are up and running by now on the job.  

We must continually ask the question what direction Lord. Then wait for His guidance.  It is easy to try to tell God where you want to go and expect God to deliver.  It is much harder to wait for God to give His direction. I suppose there are many who will never understand my reasons to step back.  Especially in the work force where it's all about the climb to the corporate top.  Once at the top you hang on for dear life to stay up there. Then the mountain keeps getting higher, steeper, and harder to climb. I enjoyed the challenge but know I am not to stay up there and miss all that God wants me to do.

Peace...

Psalm 105:4 Search for the Lord and his strength.Always seek his presence. 

Day 54- Choir Concert

Nicole had her first middle school choir concert.  They were very good.  And I got to attend.  I was suppose to be finishing the physical inventory but things got delayed so it worked out for me to attend.  This is what life is about. Family and being with family. We are very blessed with the children we have. 

Make sure you let your children know how special they are. They grow up so fast.

Day 53 - 4 Agreements

Hi

I am finishing up my responsibilities for year end inventory. Many things happen in life that are out of our control. It is how we react, cope, and work through these events that matter.  I constantly go back to the book by Don Miguel Ruiz, The Four Agreements.

I can really get worked up over the drama.  In the end, don't take anything personally and don't try to read into anything. As long as you are impeccable with your word and do your best, You will be at peace.  I am confident in myself and live by these agreements.  Life is good.

Read the book if you get a chance.  It is very good.

Peace......

Day 52 - Fall

We went up to N GA to Anna Ruby Falls today. It was beautiful. More about spending time with family.   Got to walk up the hill to the falls.  I don't think I could have walked before August.  The exercise has helped me get around and do some things I could not do before.  I told Cliff I want to even camp.....in a tent. We are going to go this fall.   It is good to get out of the house and spend time outdoors.

Peace...

Day 51 - Fellowship

I like to be alone.  In fact I prefer it over being in a group. I watch HGTV's House hunters and all the people are looking for a house to entertain. Does everyone in the world like to entertain?  I have a close friend and she doesn't like the entertaining idea either.  I was shy as a child. I also was single until 28 and lived by myself. So maybe I am happy with my own company. I know we are created to fellowship with one another.  God encourages us to love and support one another. Maybe I am an introvert?  I think it is good to accept who you are and the type of person God wants us to be.

Day 50 - Remember me

I was listening to Pandora on the way to work and the song Remember Me, by Mark Schultz started playing. It took me back about 7 years when two of my friends sang this beautiful duet in church.  It was mesmerizing. Both have such beautiful voices and they blended perfectly. It was a very peaceful meditative song. It is amazing how God places memories in our hearts. We never know what impact we have on others and how God can use us to touch lives.   Thank you Sabrina and Renee for sharing your angelic voices. You are both very special to me.

Peace...

Day 48 - Joined new club

I am privileged to join the club of those who have had a Colonoscopy.  I said I was being transparent. Just started my prep and the procedure is tomorrow. Not a fan of the drink. This too shall pass.   I get a day off. That is a positive. Plus the scale may go down.   Anyway. Life happens. The good, the bad and the ugly. I am not sure if this is bad or ugly or both.   Hope you all enjoy your time tonight and tomorrow. 

Day 47 - Helping

Everyone around us is going through stuff.  We all have issues and problems.  I have friends with cancer and health problems. Friends who are lonely. Friends who are out of work. Friends with little money. We are called to help those around us.  It is easy to get caught up in our own problems to not see the hurting world. Take time to see the world and the problems. Then do something. We must never stop. Be the example to change the world around you. 

James 2:14-17 My brothers and sisters, if a person claims to have faith but does nothing, that faith is worth nothing. Faith like that cannot save anyone. Suppose a brother or sister in Christ comes to you in need of clothes or something to eat. And you say to them, “God be with you! I hope you stay warm and get plenty to eat,” but you don’t give them the things they need. If you don’t help them, your words are worthless. It is the same with faith. If it is just faith and nothing more—if it doesn’t do anything—it is dead. 

Day 46 - Holy Spirit

Tomorrow we start our small group. We are doing the series called Forgotten God by Francis Chan. If you are not familiar with the author he has many talks on You Tube. I believe this study will fit well with my journey.  This study is about the Holy Spirit  In the book of John, Jesus gives us the promise of the Holy Spirit. 

John 14:15-17 “If you love me, you will do what I command. I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper to be with you forever. The Helper is the Spirit of truth. The people of the world cannot accept him, because they don’t see him or know him. But you know him. He lives with you, and he will be in you. 

I would love to hear of any Holy Spirit moments you have.

Peace....

Day 46 - Work

I went into work on Sunday. Not what I wanted to do but had to get some year end accounts balanced. This account is very frustrating because whatever we thought could go wrong did. After 6 hours of reconciling by looking though month after month I found maybe two thirds of the difference. In accounting, we balance. When it's off something is wrong.  So tomorrow I will go in very early to continue the recon.  The fact that this was not dealt with months ago is a problem. 

I guess that is also true with our lives.  We do not mess things up overnight. It takes months that we are not keeping ourselves in check and balancing our lives. That's what leads us to sickness, clutter in our lives, and frustration.  If we can keep a check on our health and our lives on a daily and weekly basis we will not loose control.   Now I am doing this and have to make up for the years I did not.  It is sometimes hard throughout the day to keep strong, but I want to be balanced. It's the accountant in me.  Hope you are balanced!  If not, take the plunge and start your personal reconciling today.

Peace...

Day 45 - Worth

During my life I have felt the need to always prove myself to people. You can tell when someone doesn't know you or believe in you.  Often times these were cases where I was going to bat for the underdog, a belief, or knowing the company was not doing the right thing.  I have fought many a battle in the workforce for those who deserve it.  

Then there were times I had to always prove the point when dealing with difficult and irrational thinking people.  I have always been irritated with bosses who could not make a decision. It wasn't from lack of facts or knowledge. They just were afraid to make a decision.    

With stepping back I will no longer have to deal with the crazies in the business world.  Choosing to step back is giving me freedom to live and be with the ones who mean the most to me.  I will still fight for the underdog in any situation. But I won't have to be in the middle of playing the game of work. I will no longer feel the need to prove myself to, as my son says it best,"the man" anymore.  Life is good. It is very good. 

Peace...

Day 44 - Just Dance

Nicole and I got out the just dance for WII tonight. I used to only make it through three songs. I was keeping up and did 6 - 7 songs. Not breathing hard either. 

My friend and I were talking about dancing back in the eighties. Doing the club scene. She said she was a pretty good dancer. But she doesn't feel link dancing anymore. She has to dance. I am going to get her dancing again. Get up and get moving. It is really fun and you feel great doing it. 

Peace...