Welcome to Blessings Street!

This Path I Am On

2011-09-18T22:02:00.000-07:00

"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."

Proverbs 3:5,6 King James Bible

This path that I have been on has not gotten any easier with time. It seems the momentum of the battle is getting more strenuous or could it be that I am getting weary on this journey. The path seems to be a constant climb in elevation. At times I can feel the oxygen getting thinner and it is harder to breathe. It has been painful. So extremely painful. No physical wounds that I can bandage up or take a pill to dull the pain. Hurt that can be so unbearable. It has been brutal on my emotions as well as my spirit. It has been grueling on my walk with the Lord. I have experienced doubt, fear, and loneliness. I have had to endure so much with no arms to comfort me. I have had to stand alone against lies that have been told about me. I will not even go into the heart wrenching emotions that are involved with the treatment of my children during this nightmare.

In all of this and so much more I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. Seriously, no where else. This is the path that I know that God has for me. He is here with me every step of this baren path I trod. Am I only going to trust him when things are going good and the weather is fair? I found out that I am better than that. I have seen God's strength in me when I was all tapped out. I have felt his presence when I thought I was alone. I have experience the victory that only the cross of Calvary can offer. I want to be where my Lord is no matter what the conditions are. I learned that as well. Hymns have a renewed meaning. I really hear what they say. Like this one. Did I really believe that I would trust the Lord through it ALL? Only by His grace.

Through It All

Written by- Andrae Crouch

Verse 1:
I've had many tears and sorrows,
I've had questions for tomorrow,
there's been times I didn't know right from wrong.
But in every situation,
God gave me blessed consulation,
that my trials come to only make me strong.

Chorus:
Through it all,
through it all,
I've learned to trust in Jesus,
I've learned to trust in God.

Through it all,
through it all,
I've learned to depend upon His Word.

Verse 2:
I've been to lots of places,
I've seen a lot of faces,
there's been times I felt so all alone.
But in my lonely hours,
yes, those precious lonely hours,
Jesus lets me know that I was His own

Chorus

Verse 3:
I thank God for the mountains,
and I thank Him for the valleys,
I thank Him for the storms He brought me through.
For if I'd never had a problem,
I wouldn't know God could solve them,
I'd never know what faith in God could do.

Unorganized Blessings!

2011-09-07T21:09:00.000-07:00

Again, it has been a long time since I have been able to coupon. My book was so out of wack and I have not had the time or energy to sit down and put it together. After being about 2 months behind I finally was able to get my book together and had a very little amount of coupons to work with but God let me have a good time anyway!

The gum I paid 98 cents for all six!

The toothpaste which normally goes for around $3.50 or more I purchased for 48 cent each plus they came with a sample and $10 in coupons!! The tape was 39 cents each and the laminated pouches 34 cents.

I thank God so much for making my dollars stretch! This week the Sunday paper will have FOUR INSERTS! I can't wait to see what God is going to do next!!

Past, Present, and Future

2011-08-27T16:37:00.000-07:00

August 27, 2011

The present:

This year it is on a Saturday. This year it is a very hot day. This year there is a birthday party going on. This year I sit in my own apartment. This year turmoil and peace are a common mixture.

The past:

On this day 3 years ago my mother passed. On this day 3 years ago I was there by her bedside scared and nervous of the up coming event. On this day 3 years ago, I had peace knowing that it was over. The pain and struggle was over. On this day 3 years ago my life as I knew it would never be the same.

The future:

One year from now. One year from today what is this day going to be like? Today is a day of dreaming, of hoping and going forward. God only knows what his plans are for me. I am anxious and excited. I am hopeful, very hopeful.

I Don't Understand God

2011-07-28T21:31:00.000-07:00

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.
Isaiah 55:8

You think you know Someone and then He does the unexpected.

Everything was going along as planned and God just does what he wants when he wants to do it. Without clearing it with me first or even asking my permission!

I just don't get Him. Why can't He just act like what I think he should?

I have come to realize that I had God in this nice tidy little box and everything was just fine.

Well, I guess not for Him and I am so glad for that!

I don't want God to be only what I think He is capable of or only what I imagine Him to be. I want God to be God.

He is so amazing and I know he is doing what is best for me. I know God loves us just the same. The Bible says He is "no respector of persons" but I just can't help feeling spoiled most of the time.

I am glad God does just what He wants.

I heard it said once, "What kind of a God would He be if we could figure Him out."

Oh, that was so true for me this week.

It Will Change You

2011-07-05T20:08:00.000-07:00

The hardest thing you will do.

The easiest thing to do.

A little whisper or whimper.

A shout or a cry.

The Lord is nigh unto us, waiting to hear from us. That is what I believe the bible teaches. I have also experienced it in the last several months. I have been through a trial so hard and quiet that I even wondered if God was any where near me. Did he know what I was going through? Did he understand that I needed answers? Did he see that my heart was being broken and I was hurt and confused? Yes, he did. He was there all the time. Showing me tenderly that he heard me and he was there, right there going through this hard and quiet time with me.

He was teaching me.

Teaching me to lean on him and to trust him. He knows what is best for me and what he wants for me is just around the corner. Right out of sight. He was teaching me to keep doing what I know to do and the blessings are on their way. He taught me to be patient and wait.

He is teaching me to be thankful. To look around and see the blessings in my life. My well being is not defined by one area of my life but the full picture. I have wonderful friends, good health, healthy children.

He is teaching me to pray. Prayer. People smarter then me have written books on prayer and have preached on prayer but it doesn't seem real until you know that God heard you. He heard what you said. The Almighty God heard me. Me. Little ole me. That is pretty remarkable. I learned a lot about prayer.

I learned how important it is to pray. Pray about everything. What you think is little and the big things too. I can not guarantee that praying will change what you are going through but I can say it will change you. I was changed by praying. My situation has not changed and it is going on so long but prayer has changed me.

I guess I should explain now why that blue Fj Toyota is the picture for this post. In the past our family has had things that reminded us that God loves us. For example, I have a Schwan truck, Hannah has horses and Josh has a FedEx truck. When we see those things we rejoice in the love of God for that person. The blue Toyota was a reminder to us to pray for a certain person. Whenever we would see that car we would know to pray for that person. For the past 4 or 5 months I have seen that car around a lot. I have resented to pray for that person. Did I really want good for that person? Did I want God's blessings on that person? Really?? At first I struggled with those questions and others that seemed to haunt me. What did I believe? What kind of person did I want to be? Do I just want to do the easy things or did I want God to use me even for the hard stuff.

As I argued with God when I saw that blue Toyota I learned that God still wanted to hear what I was saying. I was learning about me. Things my Father already knew about me. I did want the easy things but I wanted the hard things also. I want to be a strong Christian and a good daughter to my Heavenly Father. As I prayed I cannot tell you if it changed that person or not but I know for a certainty that it changed me. I pray easier for this person and I do not cringe when I see the blue Toyota like I used to. Some days are easier than others but I still pray.

Through this hard and quiet time God has taught me several things and the most important one so far is to pray. Just keep praying. He is listening.

Untempered Mortar

2011-03-25T13:07:00.000-07:00

Any person can build a house. If you have ever seen the show Holmes on Homes you can see that with little or even no skill you can build a home, fix a wall or replace a bathtub. Of course, the whole premise of the show is to show how poor the workmanship was done. Most times Mr. Holmes has to tare everything out and start all over.

As a Christian I would like my home to be built on Jesus. I want Him to be my foundation. I want the foundation to be strong and be able to stand up against anything. As I have come to realize a good foundation is not the only thing a strong home needs.

Look at the picture of the home above, can you just see this house in it's hay day. The dinner parties that would have lit up the windows at night. A fire in the fireplace reflecting off the walls in the bedroom. What personality that house must have had. The thrill the owners might have felt watching it go from the blue prints to the reality of walking through the front doors for the first time. Now after years of neglect, possible inferior materials, and trials of nature beyond their control. Here this house sits ready to fall over during the next breezy spring day.

Ezekiel 13:11

"Say unto them which daub it with untempered mortar, that it shall fall:"

God warns us that if we build we need to build with good materials. Those that are inferior will not last. Building a family is an important thing in a marriage. That verse tells me it is in the details. The seemingly little decisions we make can make a strong family or a dilapidated family that can not withstand the trials that befall a family.

Here is what I learned. I'll beit a little late. But I know God is not done with me yet. I am just on a different path now.

Get help. Help with house cleaning. Help with organizing. Help with your health. If you have a problem get help. Do not take, "Your fine," as an acceptable answer. Google it, go to the library, talk to other women. Do not suffer in silence. Your Heavenly Father has more for you than this. Proverbs 11:14, "Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety."

The Bible does not trump life. The Bible weaves itself into our reality. God wrote it for our lives. He wants to be apart of our life. Nothing is new under the sun. Read your Bible and find His answers for you. If someone who wants to give you Biblical advice but does not know your problem, Proverbs 18:13 says, "He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him."

Never give up. No one knows everything and no one can speak for God. You are a child of the King. You have Jesus as your mediator. You are loved more than you will ever know. As long as there is Jesus, there is hope.

Remember you can not control people. You are they only one that knows if you are right with God. Build your family from your inside out. Not every aspect of your life or mine will be all in sinc at the same time. Where would the challenge be in that? Build yourself and your family with quality material. Never stop learning and never stop leaning on God for the answers. He already knows what we need before we ask. Matthew 6:8, "... for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him."

Go Ahead, Take a Whack At It!

2011-03-17T15:53:00.000-07:00

That statement works when you are hammering a nail or when you are at a child's birthday party hitting a pinata with a bat or stick.

It is not, however, a statement that should be used to describe the conversation you are having with someone.

I recently had a conversation with someone and I felt like that person had just whacked me up side the head. The person was attempting to do it with their Bible no less. Not literally, of course! But it left me reeling just the same.

This person did not know anything about me. But that did not stop this person. What are facts when you have the Bible? This person felt they did not need to know my life to know what God's will is for me.

As I endured this person's knowledge on everything to fix my problem (even though this person did not know my problem or even asked if I had a problem). I was thinking about Jesus.

If He were here to talk to people about their problems, how would he do it?

Take the woman at the well for example. He already her knew her situation and let her know that he knew all about her. He could have gone into a tirade on not being married and living with a man or being divorced. But that is not the conversation he chose to have with her. He did not even tell her go and sin no more like another woman he said that to.

He offered her refreshment. He offered her hope. He offered her life. I bet that did more for her then any lecture she could have received about immoral living.

She went away from that meeting excited and wanting to tell others of Jesus and what he can do for her and for them. She might have even gone home and got her house in better order.

When I was able to leave the one sided conversation I was having with this person I did not feel lifted up, drawn to Jesus or encouraged in anyway. I did not want to go out and tell others about Jesus' gift. I wanted to go home and lick my wounds from a careless person who just wanted to sound spiritual and whack me with their Bible but not take the time to talk with me about my life.

As Christians we should be drawn to each other for support and acceptance. To help each other along the way. No one knows the future and can not for certain tell you what God's will is for your life. We do not have the right to whack each other with the Bible. That is not what the Bible is for.

So the next time you want to take a whack at something, make sure it is not a fellow Christian or worse yet, a person who is not saved and does not even know the love of Christ.

I May Be Down...

2011-02-15T17:18:00.000-08:00

But God is still using me.

I must say watching Facebook with my friends getting killer deals has encouraged me and has also challenged me. "I want to play, too!" is what I am thinking when I see the deals that are going on around me. So here is mine.

I was able to get 5 boxes of Finish Tabs (20 ct.) for 98 cents PLUS $10 in ECB's. That was including tax.

I bought (that word is so funny to use now) this hairspray for 38 cents. Yes, I do have to pay tax, sometimes.

I do not normally picture the feminine things but I was on a roll with this. I purchased all of these for 89 cents.

God put into my hands a tool a little over a year ago and I know that couponing works. Now, when things are super tight I know how to make a dollar or even a quarter squeal!

God also put the Bible and prayer into my life a long time ago when things were going just fine. I have learned that reading my Bible and prayer works. As I go through a valley right now I know what to do. I know what works. When change happens and I may not have the answers I still know what to do and I know Who to turn to.

What is the point of learning new things when you do not allow God to use them for His glory. I know that reading my Bible and praying does a lot for me but I think it also gives God glory just as when I save money and I am able, just like you were to me, to encourage someone to keep going even when it is harder to keep going.

When it is hard, read your Bible and pray. When it is not so hard, read your Bible and pray. That is one thing that does not have to change where you are up or down.

With a little help from a friend

2010-10-18T13:32:00.000-07:00

I cut this coupon from Sunday's paper (10-17). There was a mix-up on my part but with help from a great couponer friend, LeAne, she straightened me out and I walked out of Walgreens with 6 bottles of Men's Nivea Bath soap. They are normally priced at $5.99 each. They were on sale at 2/$5. I used a coupon for $3 off. I only paid the tax. The subtotal was 36.94 but I only paid $1.16. SWEET!!

I printed off two coupons for $2 off Quaker Oats Oatmeal. They are $2.54 at Walmart. I picked up 2 for .54 each.

I printed 2 coupons for $2 off Hungry Man Dinners. They are $2.38 at Walmart. So I paid only .38 each. Yeah!!

This is really addicting saving money like this. I am having such a good time. Thank you Lord for helping me save my family money!

CVS Fun!

2010-10-10T23:51:00.000-07:00

The subtotal was $26.93

I went to Walmart and had coupons for the Gain dish soap $1 off (97cents each) I then purchased a candy bar (50 cents) so I could go over. Total including tax .68.

I went to CVS and scanned my card. I got a coupon for the Candy Corn (free) and spend $15 and save $5 off your order.

The Glade candles were $4.19 each, I had two coupons for B1G1 free plus $1.50 off when you buy two.

The Dawn soap was on sale for 97 cents. I used my $1 off coupons on them.

The female things ($1.49 each) I had a $1 off.

The Sierra Mist $1.49 no coupon :( but it was for my sicky son so I have to take care of him :)

Total at CVS OOP including tax $1.91!!

Thank you God for allowing me to find these good actually GREAT deals!!

How much can $1 buy you today?

2010-10-04T13:29:00.000-07:00

I stopped at Smith's where I can usually find the Mentos Gum for $1 (normal price is anywhere from $1 to $1.39) and sure enough they were a $1! I had a coupons (eight of them really) from Sunday's paper (10/3). I picked up the gum for free!!. The cookies were normally on sale for $2.39 and they were on sale for $1. I used a coupon from Sunday's paper and saved $1 on two making them .50 each! I thank God for such good deals!!

I had a coupon for buy one milk and bag of cookies and get one bag of cookies free. I used with that coupon two coupons for $1 off a bag of cookies. Plus I downloaded coupons onto my smith's card and got another $1 off two bags of cookies. I had a coupon for $1.50 off the Sweet Moments candy. Also another $1 off downloaded onto my card. I saved $9.56 and spent $2.56!

I scanned my card at CVS. They gave me 6 coupons. One was for $1 off two Aussie products. I had 2/$1 off coupons. Plus the gave me $1.50 in CVS bucks called ECB's. When all the coupons were scanned they ended up taking an extra $1 off and I only paid .85 including tax for both! I saved over $8.00!!

I also purchased a Bounce Bar for the dryer for .79!

I really get a high off of finding these deals. It is fun to see God still go beyond what I plan for. I am very thankful to God I am addicted to this and not gambling or something!!

Bible in 90 Days Final Comments

2010-09-28T15:11:00.001-07:00

What an experience this was to be apart of. I have not blogged my way through the Bible before and I gained so much from this read through. I was able to complete this read through in 85 days. Once I was getting closer to the end it was hard to just read one day at a time.

It was also done at a really good time in my life. This 90 day read through kept my focus on what was important and I was not easily distracted.

I thank God for preserving his word in the King James Bible.

I am very grateful I did this. It was well worth it for me. If you have not read your bible from cover to cover you should try it at least once in a year. If you are up to the challenge you could try it in less time. It is all good and you will learn so much.

The End ~ Day 88

2010-09-28T15:04:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Revelation 18:1 - Revelation 22:21

"And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever." Rev. 20:10 KJB

I love the way this book ends. I love how God takes care of his own. I love how Jesus is King. I love how Satan is thrown into the lake of fire, FOREVER!!

It makes me want to do more for my Lord. It makes me want to try harder to tell others about God's free gift of Heaven.

Judgement ~ Day 87

2010-09-28T14:58:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Jude 1 - Revelation 17:18

"But I have a few things against thee," Rev. 2:14a KJB

I believe God put these judgements here for us to learn from. So when we get to our judgement we will have done better.

I am thankful that God is my judge. I am on His side and I am proud to be a Christian.

Freebies!

2010-09-28T02:54:00.000-07:00

The two bottles of Xtra detergent I got at CVS. I scanned my CVS card and I got several coupons. One of them was $2 off Xtra laundry soap. They were on sale for $2 each so it was free. When I came back another day I scanned my card again and I was given another of the same coupon. So I picked up another one.

The Tide stain release spray was $3.99 each. I had a coupon for $3 off and then Target had a coupon for $1.50 that I could use together. I had two of each coupon so the Tide sprays were free.

The samples I got a Target. I just made sure my coupons did not say " excluding trial size" on them.

Target has a really good selection of Travel size products.

A New Life ~ Day 86

2010-09-28T02:44:00.001-07:00

Today's reading James 3:13 - III John 14

HAVE A LITTLE TALK WITH JESUS (Cleavant Derricks)

I once was lost in sin but Jesus took me in

And then a little light from heaven filled my soul

It bathed my heart in love and it wrote my name above

And just a little talk with my Jesus made me whole

(Chorus)

Have a little talk with Jesus tell him all about our troubles

Hear our fainted cry answer by and by

Feel a little prayer wheel turning know a little fire is burning

Find a little talk with Jesus makes it right

Sometimes my path grows drear without a ray of cheer

And then a cloud of doubt may hide the day

The mists of sin may rise and hide the starry skies

But just a little talk with Jesus clears the way

I may have doubts and fears my eyes be filled with tears

But Jesus is a friend who watches day and night

I go to him in prayer he knows my every care

And just a little talk with my Jesus makes it right

We have a new life, a second chance when we ask Jesus to come into our hearts and forgive us for our sins. That is such great news. We are not in bondage any more. We are free to live for Christ. Thank you God!

Great Salvation ~ Day 85

2010-09-28T02:37:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Hebrews 1:1 - James 3:12

"How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him;" Hebrews 2:3 KJB

Not in this lifetime will we comprehend all that we were gifted by God when we accepted Jesus as our Saviour. All we can do is show people by our life how God is so good to us. We are going to be so amazed when we get to heaven. It will be so much more then we thought.

Great Gain ~ Day 84

2010-09-28T02:28:00.000-07:00

Today's reading I Thessalonians 1:1 - Philemon 25

"But godliness with contentment is great gain." I Timothy 6:6 KJB

As I read these verses God is trying to teach how to treat the people in our lives. How to take care of the weak and widowed. How to look for a deacon or a pastor. How women should act when they are young and also when they are old.

In all this we need to be godly and content. Now a days contentment in very hard to find but God knows what is best for us.

Help me to reach out to others and be content with the place that the Lord has put my life.

Train up a Child ~ Day 83

2010-09-28T00:22:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Galatians 3:26 - Colossians 4:18

"Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged." Colossians 3:21 KJB

All these verses about righteousness in Jesus Christ and not the law. The law is a curse. There is no hope in the law. Our only hope is Jesus.

More verses about loving one another and how to get along and to be kind. Fathers to not provoke their children to anger. Well, I can only speak as a mother that in one area I have seen recently where children were provoked to anger and boy, was it ever discouraging.

As I take my children pretty much every were I go they hear me talk and are listening to me even when I do not think they are. If I give the impression through my words or my actions that someone is undesirable then my children will be hesitant and withdrawn toward them.

After a couple of months of being gone, we went back to our old stomping grounds and my children went running into the building excited. I was so proud of them as they went in looking for friends we had not seen in a while. But by the time we got back into the car they were less cheerful and what was suppose to be a glad reunion instead had the feeling that they had not been missed at all.

We provoke our children to anger by shunning people and not being kind. We provoke our children to anger by one day speaking to a family and then the next running from them at the store.

Heaven may be a little awkward for some when they see who got in but I want to raise my children to be greeters at heaven's door, thankful for who ever is coming in. That thought process will have to start here when my children are young. As my children watch how I treat people I need to be very careful.

O be careful little ears what you hear...

Justified ~ Day 82

2010-09-28T00:09:00.001-07:00

Today's reading I Corinthians 15:1 - Galatians 3:25

"But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith." Galatians 3:11 KJB

How are you justified? Is it because you follow the rules and wear a dress and go to church and not a bar? Are you justified because you know scripture verses by heart and read the bible through every year? Are you justified because you use the King James Bible and not the NIV? If you are thinking your works make you justified in Christ than you are still under the curse of the law.

We are justified by faith through Christ Jesus. All those things you do that are good keep doing because even people who do not know God know the benefits of good behavior. But you are heirs with Christ and justified by your faith not by your works.

Thank you God for that because how much good would you have to do to be justified? Remember it is all Jesus. The beginning and the end.

People Skills ~ Day 81

2010-09-27T23:57:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Romans 15:1 - I Corinthians 14:40

"We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves." Romans 15:1 KJB

We are to bear the infirmities our friends have. Help them through while showing them Jesus. Whether they need to get saved or back into fellowship with God.

We are not to be puffed up. We are to guide others toward Christ. Let God judge them when it is time, then everyone will praise the Lord (I Corn. 4: 4-5 KJB)

It is all about working well with others. How to lead some one to Christ for salvation is the main focus for all that we do. Is what I am doing or how I am treating someone, is that going to draw them closer to Christ or keep them away? I want God to use my life to draw others toward him.

Right, Respectful, and Righteousness ~ Day 80

2010-09-27T03:59:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Acts 28:17 - Romans 14:23

"For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ." Romans 5;17 KJB

Wow, I sure have a lot to say about these 14 chapters. It is all about making sure your heart is right. That the inside is cleaned and right with God. That is more important then what you look like. (Romans 2:29) Righteousness is not something we can attain, it is a gift from God. It is Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:17)

Doing right does not make you righteous. There are perks for right living and God is pleased that we choose to do right but Jesus is our righteousness (Romans 5:17).

Being respectful in how we dress or how we act does not make you righteous. Though there are perks when you respect yourself and others. It does not make you righteous. Jesus makes us righteous.

What does righteousness mean to you? Is it a stick you use to beat our sisters in Christ or our lost friends with when we see they do not have the same standards as you or I do? "What will ye? shall I come unto you with a rod, or in love, and in the spirit of meekness?" I Corn. 4:21 KJB

Do I want my own righteousness or do I want God's righteousness? "For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God." Romans 10:3 KJB

The Bible says righteousness is Christ. "For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth." Romans 10:4 KJB

Help me be humble and guide others to Christ but also when I fall astray or my friends fall astray help me to still show them the love of Jesus. That is when we need to see the mercy, love, and grace of God.

Power ~ Day 79

2010-09-27T03:27:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Acts 16:38 - Acts 28:16

"To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me." Acts 26:18 KJB

Everyone wants it and those who have it want more. Power. The Bible says here that Satan has power and God is going to get that power.

I know how the story is going to end. Satan will lose all power and God Almighty will have it all. I praise the Lord that I am on the winning side.

Scattered ~ Day 78

2010-09-27T02:49:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Acts 6:8 - Acts 16:37

"Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word." Acts 8:4 KJB

Under great persecution the people scattered but they also spread the gospel as they went. They were able to speak to people that they would not have had the opportunity to speak with had they not been on the run.

God will have his word going out to people. In this case, I see God had chose to put a little fire under their feet to get the job done in more areas.

Expect the Unexpected ~ Day 77

2010-09-27T02:37:00.000-07:00

Today's reading John 15:18 - Acts 6:7

"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." John 16:33 KJB

Jesus came to earth and he had a plan. He lived on this earth as a human but people did not hear him that way or see him that way. In this verse, Jesus told us to expect tribulation but then to expect the unexpected because he had overcome the world.

John 17:9 says we may have expected Jesus to pray but did we expect him to pray for us? Jesus was expected to come as the messiah but he was not expected to come as our friend.

It seems to me when it comes to what God is going to do in my life I need to expect the unexpected.

Love One Another ~ Day 76

2010-09-27T02:21:00.000-07:00

Today's reading John 6:1- John 15:17

"But some of them went their ways to the Pharisees, and told them what things Jesus had done." John 11:46 KJB

Jesus spoke to the people all over and had so much to say to help them here and also how to go to heaven. He did so many miracles of feeding the masses and also healing.

Some believed but some went away with anger and resentment of the things Jesus was doing. Jesus, the perfect man, public speaker, and doctor but some still found fault in him.

We as fellow sinners, there is nothing perfect about us and it does not take long at all to find fault in each other but in John 15:17 Jesus commands us to love one another.

Let us look for the good in people. Let us show love as Jesus would want us to.

Understanding ~ Day 75

2010-09-16T19:01:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Luke 20:20 - John 5:47

"Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures." Luke 24:45 KJB

When I begin reading my Bible I start out by praying that God would give me something out of his Word. Well, This verse makes me think that there maybe things that God needs to show me that I just would not automatically read with out his guidance. I think of it like a treasure hunt. I never know what I may find!

Hear God ~ Day 74

2010-09-16T18:41:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Luke 10:1 - Luke 20:19

"Laying wait for him, and seeking to catch something out of his mouth, that they might accuse him." Luke 11:54 KJB

As Jesus spoke the scribes and the Pharisees were listening to everything he said. They even asked a lot of questions just to find something in his answer to catch him in something they could use against him.

Jesus spoke in the church everyday. He was speaking with people all the time and these men only wanted to hear a mistake.

When I read my Bible I want to have an open heart that will hear all that God has for me. The good and the bad because it will make me a better person for him to use.

What are your catching out of Jesus' mouth?

Strange Things ~ Day 73

2010-09-15T14:49:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Luke 2:1 - Luke 9:62

"And they were all amazed, and they glorified God, and were filled with fear, saying, We have seen strange things to day." Luke 5:26 KJB

As the people watched Jesus heal this man they were very perplexed. They were amazed, though they praised God but then they were fearful and thought his actions were very strange.

Maybe they wanted to believe Jesus yet they did not want to go against the Pharisees. They allowed who they considered "men of God" to keep them from knowing who Jesus really was.

Do not let any one or anything stand between you and God. If what you are hearing does not line up along with the Bible then you need to stay with your Bible. Stay with what God says. The Bible says these people were fearful. Does your fear of going against the grain keep you from knowing Jesus? Are his works to strange for you to get a closer look? I hope not.

Watch ~ Day 72

2010-09-15T14:24:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Mark9:14 - Luke 1:80

"And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch." Mark 13:37 KJB

Jesus was speaking to a few of the disciples about what they should expect to happen. A lot of fighting and persecution will happen. There will be signs to look for that should not surprise them. They will need to pay attention. They will need to watch.

Even today, two thousand years later, we also need to pay attention and keep our focus on what God has for us to do. The goal is to spread the gospel to every nation (13:10). So if we keep that as the most important thing then the other things might not so easily distract us.

Miracles ~ Day 71

2010-09-15T13:42:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Matthew 26:57 - Mark 9:13

"For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened." Mark 6:52 KJB

Jesus had just approached the boat by walking on the water and then calming the storm. By Mark's account the disciples were " sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered." Mark 6:51 KJB. The Bible states that they had a hard heart even though they were hanging around Jesus and watching him do all these miracles.

We can be doing the right things, hanging around the right crowd and still have a hard heart. How does that happen? Come on, how do you hang around Jesus and still not get what he is trying to accomplish?

Pride-Maybe they felt like they already knew what he should be doing. Peter does rebuke him when he says he needs to die and be resurrected in three days.

Unteachable-Maybe they felt they knew enough already. Jesus was just a carpenter's son with no real formal religious training.

Busyness-Were they too busy doing for God they did not take the time to see God and consider what he really wanted to accomplish while he was here.

Whatever it was, I need to learn from them and try to keep my focus on what my goals are and not be prideful or unteachable or to busy that I do not see the miracles that God is doing in my family and in my life right now today. I need to have a soft heart.

Offenses ~ Day 70

2010-09-13T12:38:00.001-07:00

Today's reading Matthew 16:1 - 26:56

"But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea." Matt. 18:6 KJB

Jesus did not go out of his way to offend people. In the case of Matt. 17:27 Jesus found a coin and paid the tax. Jesus tells us in Matt. 18:7 that offenses will come but woe unto the person by whom those offenses come. Basically you do not want to be the one offending people.

When it comes to defending children and God's house he did not care who he offended. Those were precious things to him.

I need to choose my battles wisely and make sure I am a good example for my kids on when it is time to fight and when it is not our time to fight. I need to make sure I do not offend the things that are precious to God.

Happy Birthday, Honey!!!!

2010-09-10T10:33:00.001-07:00

I hope you have a wonderful day!! I love you!!

Son of God ~ Day 69

2010-09-10T10:22:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Matthew 5:1 - Matthew 15:39

"What manner of man is this?" Matt. 8:27 KJB

The disciples, the men we so admire, still did not have a clue who they were following. Talk about faith! They left their family and livelihood to follow this man Jesus and little did they know what they would be in store for. They watched him heal the lepers and the maimed. They watched him calm the storm and feed the multitudes.

Then the disciples were caught in another storm and Jesus came walking on the water to them. When Jesus gets to the boat with Peter, the disciples have a more clear picture of who Jesus is. "Of a truth thou art the Son of God." Matt. 14:33 KJB

Jesus wants us to learn of him (Matt. 11:29). We can do that by reading our Bibles. Then our image of who God really is will become more and more clear.

Yet ye say ~ Day 68

2010-09-10T10:13:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Zechariah 11:1 - Matthew 4:25

"I have loved you, saith the Lord, Yet ye say, Wherein hast thou loved us? " Malachi 1:2 KJB

All through Malachi the Lord is making a statement of how things really are and Israel comes back with a question of where? or how? or when?

As I read through my King James Bible I need to be ready for what the Lord has to say to me and examine my heart. Not question or defend myself because it is really my sin I am defending.

Let the word of God cleanse you to make you more and more like Jesus and less and less like the world.

Grace ~ Day 67

2010-09-09T06:28:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Habakkuk 1:1 - Zechariah 10:12

"For thus saith the LORD of hosts; As I thought to punish you, when your fathers provoked me to wrath, saith the LORD of hosts, and I repented not: So again have I thought in these days to do well unto Jerusalem and to the house of Judah: fear ye not." Zech. 8:14,15 KJB

God had said quite a bit of what Israel deserves because of her sin but still he wants to hold back and not punish this generation for the sins of their fathers. He is not quick to punish as some of us have been lead into believing.

Grace, Grace, God's grace...

Judgement Day ~ Day 66

2010-09-08T06:37:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Amos 9:11 - Nahum 3:19

"Who can stand before his indignation? and who can abide in the fierceness of his anger? his fury is poured out like fire, and the rocks are thrown down by him." Nahum 1:6 KJB

Today's reading is a lot about God taking care of business with his enemies. At least when we read about the city of Nineveh, we see they had the wisdom to repent before it was to late.

"The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him." Nahum 1:7 KJB

God also knows who trusts him. I need to stick with God, not just on Sundays or when I am around Christians but on a daily basis through prayer and bible reading.

Seek God ~ Day 65

2010-09-08T06:31:00.001-07:00

Today's reading Hosea 13:7 - Amos 9:10

"Seek good, and not evil, that ye may live: and so the LORD, the God of hosts, shall be with you, as ye have spoken." Amos 5:14 KJB

No matter what is going on in the world I still need to be doing what I know is right. I need the Lord to bless my life. I need his guidance.

Chastening ~ Day 64

2010-09-06T11:18:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Daniel 9:1 - Hosea 13:6

"Come, and let us return unto the LORD: for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up." Hosea 6:1 KJB

The Lord loved Israel so much that he was doing everything to get them back. they wanted other gods, they wanted their own king. They were never satisfied. In this verse it shows us that he even tore them and smittened them. That he will also heal them and bind them up. God will come after his children. He will not forsake them even in their sin.

My sin does not please God and he will use measures to make my life unpleasant until I turn to him again. When I sin I need to get back with God.

Thank you Lord for showing me by your word that you love me more than I can even understand. Help me to get right with you quickly when I fall away.

Steadfast ~ Day 63

2010-09-05T06:52:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Ezekiel 47:13 - Daniel 8:27

"So this Daniel prospered in the reign of Darius, and in the reign of Cyrus the Persian." Daniel 6 :28 KJB

Daniel was taken captive and brought to a strange land with strange customs. The king at the time was Nebuchadnezzar. Then the king was Belshazzar, then it was Darius and then Cyrus. No matter if the law stated to worship God or not Daniel just kept doing what he knew God wanted him to do. He was steadfast in his belief.

I am at a new church. The important things are the same as my former church but some of the preferences about godly living are different. Am I going to change how I live because it is no longer required of me by man or am I going to do what I know God would have me to do in my life?

Like Daniel, I want to follow the Lord God Jehovah no matter what man may say. I want to be steadfast like Daniel.

Right on, Target!

2010-09-04T17:14:00.001-07:00

This was a surprise because I only went to Target because my daughter recieved a gift card for Target for her birthday. But I went with coupon book in hand and check out the clearance they had. I paid $1.42 for everything. That was sure a pleasant surprise from my Heavenly Father. I just love these things!

God's Name ~ Day 62

2010-09-04T08:25:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Ezekiel 36:1 - Ezekiel 47:12

"Therefore say unto the house of Israel, thus saith the Lord GOD; I do not this for your sakes, O house of Israel, but for mine holy name's sake, which ye have profaned among the heathen, whither ye went." Ez. 36:12 KJB

God was trying to clean up his own name because of what the Israelites had done. As they went around and had done wickedly they were not only making themselves look bad, they were also making God look bad among the heathen. When we do wrong and then tell people we are Christians it makes God look bad. We have his reputation to uphold.

There was an article written in the Wall St. Journal that quotes the CEO of Google as saying, "Mr. Schmidt is surely right, though, that the questions go far beyond Google. "I don't believe society understands what happens when everything is available, knowable and recorded by everyone all the time," he says. He predicts, apparently seriously, that every young person one day will be entitled automatically to change his or her name on reaching adulthood in order to disown youthful hijinks stored on their friends' social media sites."

The world does not even put a value on your family name, much less on what we are doing to God's name when we act inappropriately as Christians.

How can we lead others to Christ if we are living a life full of sinful choices? People need the Lord. Does your life, does my life, reflect who God really is?

Desire of Your Eyes ~ Day 61

2010-09-03T11:11:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Ezekiel 23:40 - Ezekiel 35:15

"Son of man, behold, I take away from thee the desire of thine eyes with a stroke: yet neither shalt thou mourn nor weep, neither shall thy tears run down." Ez. 24:16 KJB

The Lord took away the desire of Ezekiel's eyes. We know that God killed his wife. That was the desire of Ezekiel's eyes, his wife. Even with all the wickedness going on around him he still was faithful to his wife.

How about us? If God took away the desire of your eyes, would it be your husband? Would it be your kids or would it be another woman's husband? Or would it be your shoes or your computer or your clothes?

Do we have our priorities in the right order? As a Christian we can start with God then our husband then our family and go from there.

Where is the desire of your eyes?

Sad Day ~ 60

2010-09-02T16:15:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Ezekiel 12:21 - Ezekiel 23:39

"Because with lies ye have made the heart of the righteous sad, whom I have not made sad." Ez. 13:22 KJB

God is making it very clear that he does not want people messing with his own people. He goes so far as letting them know he does not want his people sad.

It is hard to comprehend that the God of this universe cares when I am sad. That is just amazing!

Am I making another Christian sad? I had better get it right!

Hope Day ~ 59

2010-09-02T16:09:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Lamentations 2:1 - Ezekiel12:20

"This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not." La. 3:21,22 KJB

With all the foretelling of destruction on Israel, it is amazing how they still realized there was hope.

No matter how bad things may get, we still have hope in Jesus. Without him we have no hope at all.

Good Shepherds ~ Day 58

2010-09-02T15:52:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Jeremiah 48:1 - Lamentation1:22

"My people hath been lost sheep: their shepherds have caused them to go astray, they have turned them away on the mountains: they have gone from mountain to hill, they have forgotten their restingplace." Jeremiah 50:6 KJB

I have a friend who has had an epiphany in her spiritual life. She has just realized that she does not have to work to get approval from God. She knew she did not have to work to get saved but she thought she had to work for God to like her.

I am not sure if she was taught this at church or not but according to this verse it would not have been the first time a shepherd or pastor has led his flock astray.

Going to a church, a good church is not as easy as it may seem. It is a decision that should be done bathed in prayer and not flippantly.

Praise the Lord for men of God who pastor God's people the way the Lord would have them.

Godly Teaching ~ Day 57

2010-08-30T21:49:00.001-07:00

Today's reading Jeremiah 33:23 - 47:7

"And Jeremiah said unto the house of the Rechabites, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Because ye have obeyed the commandment of Jonadab your father, and kept all his precepts, and done according unto all that he hath commanded you: Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Jonadab the son of Rechab shall not want a man to stand before me for ever." Jeremiah 35:18,19 KJB

The house of the Rachabites were obeying what they had been taught from their fathers. They knew what to do and they did it. They were blessed for it.

As I raise my children there needs to be godly things that I teach them that I have been taught as I read my Bible and grow in the Lord. I need to pass that down to them not only verbally but by example. Godliness is better caught then taught, as the saying goes.

Let us give our children a godly heritage!

God's Word ~ Day 56

2010-08-29T07:28:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Jeremiah 23:9- Jeremiah 33:22

"And the word of the Lord came unto Jeremiah saying." Jeremiah 33:19 KJB

Jeremiah was God's prophet and he was trying to convince the Israelites that what he was saying was true. He had two obstacles though:

1. The news he was telling them was not good news. They had to go to Babylon and be in bondage.

2. Hananiah, another prophet, was saying that what Jeremiah was saying was not from the Lord. Which the people liked hearing.

Now today we do not have to wonder if what we are hearing is from God or not because we have God's words in the King James Bible. We can compare what we are hearing to what God has told us in his Bible and then we will know the truth. Even if it is something we do not want to hear.

Seek the Lord ~ Day 55

2010-08-27T23:50:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Jeremiah 10:14 - Jeremiah 23:8

"For I earnestly protested unto your fathers in the day that I brought them up out of the land of Egypt, even unto this day, rising early and protesting, saying, Obey my voice." Jeremiah 11:7 KJB

Earnestly God is trying to get Israel to obey but they are not. They are not listening. It is getting so bad that the pastors are using their own people and the people are then crying out to God in morning (12:10). If Moses and Samuel were there interceding for them God would still punish Israel (15:7).

In all of this Jeremiah still realizes he is nothing without the Lord and he needs him for strength to get through this very low time for Israel (16:19).

Help me to learn that no matter what rials are going on in my life I need to still seek the Lord. Even when He is the one bringing on the trials.

Glory ~ Day 54

2010-08-27T23:17:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Isaiah 66:19 - Jeremiah 10:13

"Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches:" Jeremiah 9:23 KJB

There is a focus we should have and it is not suppose to be in this world. It is suppose to be in the things of God.

As a wife and mother I see the different responsibilities that I have pulling me in different directions. I really need to keep God first and then let everything else fall into place.

"But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD." Jeremiah 9:24 KJB

Smith's Shopping Spree III

2010-08-27T22:49:00.000-07:00

OK, I realize this is just insane but when you have a business that is just giving their product away what is a mother of 4 suppose to do??

I paid $2.10 for everything on the table. As you can see I really feel that God is blessing my home. I am so extremely thankful to him for looking out for me and even my new Sunday School class because now I know what the "Best Boy" and the "Best Girl" are going to get.

Smith's Shopping Spree II

2010-08-26T19:12:00.000-07:00

I had to go back today to Smiths I was there and back in 45 minutes. Which has to be a record! I new what I was getting and that always helps but it is almost never possible.

The freebies were:

the two Country Crock spread

the 5 Greek yogurts

the gum.

I spent 25 cents each for the pasta and the hot dogs were 40 cents each. The Challange Spread was 50 cents each.

I spent $2.70 on everything on the table! I saved $24!! Praise the Lord! Now I have one more, hopefully, killer deal to do before this sale is over. I really hope I get to do it. Stay tuned to see what comes next.

So Great a Salvation ~ Day 53

2010-08-26T07:55:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Isaiah 52:1 - Isaiah 66:18

" I will greatly rejoice in the Lord..." Isaiah 6:10 KJB

I really enjoyed the reading today because it seemed to really bring home how much God really does care for us and love us.

God says "great mercies" (54:7), not just mercies but great mercies. Then He says "everlasting kindness" (54:8), like just God's plan kindness is not enough. No, he has to offer us everlasting kindness. When God wants to tell us how he will pardon us he says "abundantly pardon" (55:7). How do we still not get this? How do we still think our own goodness or our own works will save us. God has done it so thoroughly and completely. Salvation is just waiting for us. He has not just offered salvation to us, He has "clothed me with the garments of Salvation" (61:10). I am so completely covered there is nothing left for me to do.

Thank you Lord for your wonderful gift of Salvation.

Smith's Shopping Spree!

2010-08-25T23:35:00.000-07:00

I really did not know what to expect when I went shopping but I prayed and asked God to bless my purchases and boy did her ever! The freebies were the Greek yogurt, country crock spread, the deodorants (!!), and the dial hand soaps. What I got for 50 cents or under was the Viva paper towels(.49), the Challenge spread (.50), Vlasic relish(.39), Mentos (.50), Ocean Spray juice (.50).

Praise the Lord I spent under $9 for everything on the table! I saved $36! Plus I will be going back for some freebies that they were out of. This will be a good week for sure! Thank you Lord!!

Redeemer ~ Day 52

2010-08-25T06:44:00.001-07:00

Today's reading Isaiah 41:19 - Isaiah 52:12

"Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and his redeemer the LORD of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God." Isaiah 44:6 KJB

The God is our redeemer. We have no one else to look to. No idols, no other nations, no other Gods.

God is proclaiming who he is in these verses (46:10). We will come singing and have everlasting joy (51:10).

It's a grand thing to be a Christian; it's the best thing I know, it's a grand thing to follow Jesus, anywhere and everywhere I go; for it's a grand thing to be a soldier in the army here below; it's the grandest thing to be a christian; it's the best thing I know.

Super Christian ~ Day 51

2010-08-24T09:03:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Isaiah 29:1 - Isaiah 41:18

"Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men." Isaiah 29:13 KJB

According to the Bible there are men that will teach us things wrong about God. We will get to a point where we will just be going through the motions but our heart is not in it when we worship (29:12). We will trust in our own strength or in someone else for what can get accomplished (31:1).

There will be men (and women) that will show by example that when things are going wrong or when there seems to be no way out that we need to go to the Almighty God for help. Like we can read in Isaiah chapter 37 about Hezekiah.

But no one is perfect so we need to have our own relationship with the Lord so we will know where to go (the Bible) and what to do (pray) when there are problems and trials happening around us.

God is not looking for a super Christian. He is looking for someone who will seek after the Living God (40:28-31) There is where you will find strength and power.

Strange Work ~ Day 50

2010-08-23T08:58:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Isaiah 14:1 - Isaiah 28:29

"...that he may do his work, his strange work, and bring to pass his act, his strange act." Isaiah 28:21 KJB

Foretelling of Destruction

City after city there was judgement pronounced on them. They had lived a life serving false gods and doing their own thing and now judgement day has come. Even though they seem to deserve this punishment God calls it a strange work.

God wanted his creation to serve him. To have a relationship with him. Because we have a choice we do not always make the right choice. Even when God sets up the rules, explains the consequences I do not see that he enjoys giving out the punishment. It must be done but he describes it as his strange work.

Help me to see countries who have rejected God and his people in a more compassionate way not rejoicing in their coming judgement. God is not happy to destroy any one.

Pure Religon ~ Day 49

2010-08-22T07:32:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Isaiah 1:1 - Isaiah 13:22

"Learn to do well; seek judgement, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow." Isaiah 1:17 KJB

God is expressing anger at Israel for their vain worship (1:13). He wants to destroy them like he did Sodom and Gomorrah (1:9) but for a very small remnant keeping back his wrath. God explains their sin in 1:17. They are not taking care of their people. He mentions it in other places how they grind the poor (3:15) and turn aside the needy (10:2). If you think women would have done a better job if they were in charge, well, they were! (3:12) They got busted for that, too.

By chapter 9, Isaiah speaks to Israel of a child that will be born (9:6). Their king is coming and he will not only rule them but rule the world. What they did not expect was Jesus. When he did come he took care of the sick and the needy (11:3,4) That upset the religious people still.

When will we get it? When will I get it? It is not about titles and positions, money or power. It is about taking care of people. It is about our neighbors, our fellow church members, the sick and hurting, the broken. The child with ADD and the poor. It is all about people.

"Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world." James 1:27 KJB

Enjoy ~ Day 48

2010-08-21T17:19:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Ecclesiastes 3:1 - Song of Solomon 8:14

"And also that everyman should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labor, it is the gift of God." Ecclesiastes 3:13 KJB

There was an underlining theme as I read through Ecclesiastes. It was about enjoying life, enjoying the fruits of your labor and even enjoying the wife (or husband, in my case!) of your youth. It would seem that Solomon is at a point in his life where he is taking inventory on what is really important and valuable. He does not want us going through our lives just working even working for the Lord without enjoying the blessings of that work.

Our church works at inviting people to come to church. This Sunday there is going to be a picnic after church so we will be able to get to know each other better. After putting in the time to work at the church and work in the neighborhood inviting people it will be really nice to get to know the people that have come to our church plus our co-laborers in Christ.

God wants us to work and he also wants us to enjoy life. What a great God we have that he wants us to live a balanced life of work and also pleasure.

Learn ~ Day 47

2010-08-20T11:38:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Proverbs 20:22 - Ecclesiastes 2:26

"Then I saw, and considered it well: I looked upon it, and received instruction." Proverbs 24:32 KJB

All the verses about wisdom can teach us so much. We can also learn from others who have not done so well. Proverbs 24:30-31, speaks of a slothful man whose vineyard is all over grown and ruined. Vs. 32 says how when another person saw it, that person learned from this bad example and decided not to follow in his foot steps.

You do not have to figure it out for yourself to do bad or even to do good, for that matter. You can look at other people's lives and learn from them and make the choice for yourself.

When raising children, for example, I watched other families and when I saw something I liked I found out how they got those results and I did the same thing. When I saw something I did not like I watched and figured out how they got those results and then tried to avoid that in my life.

This life really has come with an instruction manual. It is your King James Bible. Read it and learn so much of what God has for you.

Wisdom vs. Foolishness ~ Day 46

2010-08-19T06:18:00.001-07:00

Today's Reading Proverbs 7:1 - Proverbs 20:21

"He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed." Proverbs 13:20 KJB

It is the contrast of the benefits of wisdom and the consequences of the foolish or the wicked. Every verse pretty much could stand on its own as a gem of wisdom concerning our daily living and the choices that are set before us. You could read one chapter a day every month and not exhaust the wisdom you would gain in a lifetime.

Praise the Lord/ Wisdom ~ Day 45

2010-08-18T11:40:00.000-07:00

This is the half way point of my 90 day read through the King James Bible!

Today's reading Psalms 135:1 - Proverbs 6:35

"Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee." Psalms 143:8 KJB

Today's reading was both praise and wisdom. The idea of Praising the Lord took up a lot of chapters. It was refreshing to just keep reading the words over and over. Praise the Lord, praise the Lord. It showed me that I need to praise the Lord more in my life. Praise the Lord!

I started in Proverbs which covers how to get wisdom (from an ant 6:6). Also the benefits of wisdom:

1:33 "But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil."
3:2 "For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee."
4:9 "She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee."
4:22 "For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh."

It is amazing to me how God has to convince us to get wisdom. It is not something we are going to naturally be drawn to do.

Praise the Lord that our God wants us to be wise!

Great Spoil ~ Day 44

2010-08-17T10:53:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Psalms 109:1 - Psalms 134:3

"I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil." Psalms 119:162

I loved reading that description of my Bible. A great spoil. That makes me think of treasures and riches. Chapter 119 of the Psalms is speaking of the word of God.

Delight. That word is often used to describe the feelings of the one reading and meditating on the Bible (vs.35)

The Bible also has things you can expect from reading your Bible. Comfort (vs. 76), liberty (vs. 45), wisdom and understanding (vs. 99 & 100), and you will learn to hate sin (vs. 104).

It just makes me want to keep reading my King James Bible. Besides, who doesn't like hunting for hidden treasure!

Remember ~ Day 43

2010-08-16T06:45:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Psalms 89:14 - Psalms 108:13

"And he remembered for them his covenant, and repented according to the multitude of his mercies." Psalms 106:45 KJB

Through these chapters we are reminded of who God is (90:2). We are reminded of where to find gladness (92:4). We are reminded that the wicked will not get by (94:23). We are reminded of his holiness (97:12).

What I find interesting is in chapter 106 where the sins of Israel are recapped and God has to remember for them his promises. Israel had forgotten all that God had promised them. They stayed in their sin because they forgot.

Here are a few ways to help us remember all that God has promised us:

Read your Bible everyday.
Pray everyday.
Go to church.

There are probably more ways to remember Gods goodness and mercy toward us and all his other wonderful promises but those three can keep us busy for while. Remember, don't forget!

Testify ~ Day 42

2010-08-15T07:48:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Psalms 69:22 - 89:13

"Marvelous things did he in the sight of their fathers, in the land of Egypt, in the field of Zoan." Psalms 78:12 KJB

God is telling us not to forget what he has done for you. Do not forget his deliverance, his mercy, and grace. Do not forget his free gift of salvation through his son Jesus. Speak of it to your children, your family and friends. Testify of his goodness today while your amongst your Christian friends at church today. God is not done. There is more great things to come.

Cha-Ching!

2010-08-14T17:41:00.000-07:00

"Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits even the God of our Salvation. Selah." Psalms 68:19

I had a wonderfully blessed day. The Lord started me out with this verse today. I should have known he had something up his sleeve! That is assuming, of course, that He has sleeves.

Anyway, I had coupons for the two 6lb bags of dog food which made them FREE! Yeah! Actually everything pictured above was free! Very wonderful!

It is unbelievable how little I spent on these things in this picture. I purchased 13 boxes of cereal. That alone makes the deal even more incredible. I paid 50 cents each for the five boxes of cereal, the SunnD's and the pink drink. Over all, I paid $11.03 for EVERYTHING!

My daughter Emily kept singing this song today:

Ain't God good,

to give us so many blessings,

Undeserving,

that's what we are.

We ought to thank Him

love and praise Him

a little more today

a whole lot more tomorrow.

Emotions ~ Day 41

2010-08-14T08:44:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Psalms 45:15 - Psalms 69:21

"Lead me to the rock that is higher than I;" Psalms 61:2 KJB

I saw praise, I saw rejoicing, I saw vengeance, and I saw depression. There are a lot of emotions being expressed with such fervor. The need to be lifted up (61:2). The storing of tears (56:8). The expectation of blessings everyday! (68:19)

What an awesome God we serve to be able to handle our problems from without and the challenges we have from within.

God Is In Control ~ Day 40

2010-08-13T14:41:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Psalms 25:1 - 45:14

"But I am poor and needy; yet the Lord thinketh upon me." Palms 40:17 KJB

There are different men writing the psalms at the point. Psalms 25-40 are written by David. He was pleading a lot for deliverance from his enemies. He did not want them to have the last laugh on his life. David spoke about betrayal from men he once thought of as friends (41:9). He wants the wicked punished. He also saw how frail he was (39:4). If the Lord did not deliver him he was going to be in trouble.

The song, I Need Thee, comes to my mind. I am lost with out God. I need to rely on the Lord for everything. I need to allow God to work in my life when others do me wrong, let God take care of it.

Righteous ~ Day 39

2010-08-12T08:32:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Psalms 1:1 - Psalms 24:10 KJB

Righteous.

That seemed to be the theme word for the first part of the reading.

1:6 For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous
7:11 God judgeth the righteous
7:17 I will praise the Lord according to his righteousness
9:8 And he shall judge the world in righteousness
11:7 For the righteous Lord loveth righteousness

Then there are chapters of Psalms that plead for help 12:1 & 17:1. He seems pretty desperate by chapter 22. Then chapter 24 is praise to God.

It is hard to lump this reading all together because the chapters seem like separate poems. But no matter how unworthy we see ourselves the Lord is good to his own and not just good but very good!

13:6 " I will sing unto the Lord, because he hath dealt bountifully with me."
16:11 "Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore."

It makes me want to do right, to stay close, to not disappoint God. He makes following Him very easy. Not because I am righteous but because He is righteous.

Your God ~ Day 38

2010-08-11T07:12:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Job 25:1 - Job 41:34

" I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear; but now mine eyes seeth thee." Job 42:5 KJB

Job is in the midst of being put in his place by three of his friends. He is defending himself well. Finally, Elihu has a chance and he goes on and on about being young himself he is wiser than Job. I find it interesting that God does not even acknowledge Elihu when he is doling out punishment to the three friends.

Job hardly speaks when the Lord shows himself to him. All that Job had been taught, all that he had read and all the sacrifices he had done, the worship to God and it did not compare to the actual time when Job himself was confronted with God on a personal basis.

We can go through the motions. Maybe we have done this Christian thing all our lives. Maybe it is expected of us now. We are in our spots on Sunday and we even talk the talk and walk the walk.

Have you been confronted with the Lord God Almighty on a personal basis? Is He your God or still your parents' God? Have you seen for yourself what the Lord can do for you like Job just realized? Have your own walk with the Lord. Take the God of the Bible and make Him your God.

Where Is He? ~ Day 37

2010-08-10T21:56:00.001-07:00

Today's reading Job 8:1 - Job 24:25

"For there is hope of a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that the tender branch thereof will not cease. Though the root thereof wax old in the earth, and the stock thereof die in the ground; Yet through the scent of water it will bud, and bring forth boughs like a plant. But man dieth, and wasteth away: yea, man giveth up the ghost, and where is he?"

Job 14:7-10 KJB

Job was going through a devastating time with losing his wealth, his children, his health, his wife turns on him, and then his friends betray him. Through it all he knew he was innocent. He was not boastful how he stood before God.

A healthy opinion of ones self is good to have. Not too high but not a doormat either. Job knew when it was all said and done that he would get his strength back from the Lord. Job 23:6 "Will he plead against me with his great power? No; but he would put strength in me."

Correction ~ Day 36

2010-08-09T08:09:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Nehemiah 13:15 - Job 7:21

" Behold happy is the man whom God correcteth. " Job 5:17 KJB

A lot has been going on in my life about disciplining children. How the children can become in charge of the home and when it is mandatory they submit to authority they act out with frustration and anger because they are not used to submitting themselves to any one.

Here the Bible says,"happy is the man whom God correcteth" Happy? Children or adults, for that matter, who are rebellious will not see correction for their benefit. I need to keep my heart soft to my authority especially God so I will know he is looking out for me. That correction is for my good.

In God We Must Trust ~ Day 35

2010-08-08T15:05:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Nehemiah 1:1 - Nehemiah 13:14

" Nevertheless we made our prayer unto our God." Nehemiah 4:9 KJB

Nehemiah had a huge task ahead of him yet he was not detoured by what others were saying or doing. He knew what had to be done. He knew it would not happen unless the trusted God to get it done.

Even when you are out numbered and it does not seem like what you know needs to get done is getting done, you need to keep praying and giving it to God because God will bless your good works like he did Nehemiah's.

Joyful ~ Day 34

2010-08-07T01:28:00.000-07:00

Today's reading II Chronicles 35:16 - Ezra 10:44

" for the Lord had made them joyful." Ezra 6:22 KJB

The Israelites were able to worship with joy because they realized all that God had done for them and all he had forgiven them for.

This is what worship should be like. Going to God's house and joyfully praising God for who he is and what he has done. For his son Jesus who died on the cross so I would not have to go to hell.

I think they went home more joyful then when they showed up to worship. What a good example for me in how I should attend church. Thank you Lord for a great church I get to attend.

Justice ~ Day 33

2010-08-06T10:57:00.000-07:00

Today's reading II Chronicles 23:16 - II Chronicles 35:15

"The Lord is able to give thee much more than this." II Chr. 25:9 KJB

King Amaziah had invested money in the army of Israel but the man of God told King Amaziah not to go to battle. King Amaziah was worried about the money he would lose by not going into battle. he wanted to make everything equal but the man of God assured him that God was able to give him much than this.

How many times do I want to make sure I get my fair share. I want everything equal or I want my rights. If I look to my heavenly Father, he will take care of me just fine and in his timing. Besides if I got what I really deserved I would be on my way to hell. Thank you God for NOT making things equal!

Be Prepared ~ Day 32

2010-08-05T18:57:00.001-07:00

Today's reading II Chronicles 7:11 - II Chronicles 23:15

"And he did evil, because he prepared not his heart to seek the Lord." II Chr. 12:14 KJB

In today's reading Solomon is done making the temple. They all got together to praise the Lord. Solomon prays and asks for blessings if the people obey. Then God bestows wisdom on Solomon. All that took about 20 years. Solomon prepared his heart to serve the Lord. But When you read about Rehoboam becoming king, you see he had not done the same preparations and the Bible said he did evil. Two men, a father and a son but what completely different ways of ruling God's people.

This shows me my walk is my own with the Lord. It does not matter what others are doing in my own home or even in my church. I need to make sure I stay right with God. I need to keep making preparations on a daily basis for that goal.

This was a Surprise!

2010-08-05T16:59:00.000-07:00

I was at Walmart and I needed to purchase body wash. I had a coupon for $4 off if I bought two. The Touch of Smoothness was on sale for $3 each. I had two coupons, so I grabbed a total of 4 bottles. Making each bottle $1 each. Now that is my price range. Well, as God would have it, I was down another isle and I was looking for a coupon for something else and I came across a coupon for buy two body washes and get the Men's Nivea free. So I sent a couple of kids back down the isle we were just on to get the men's body wash. You guessed it, I had two of those coupons also! Basically, I spent .66 on each bottle plus tax. Yeah!!
Thank you, Lord for blessing our day!!

Just Do It! ~ Day 31

2010-08-04T10:21:00.000-07:00

Today's reading I Chronicles 21:1 - II Chronicles 7:10

"and do it." I Chr. 28:20 KJB

King David passed down the task of building the Lord's temple to his son Solomon. That was God's will for Solomon. David was encouraging Solomon not to be afraid of this daunting project and he said just do it. Yes, it will be hard and long and you may loose courage at times but just do it.

I guess I needed that pep talk also. I have some challenges going on and I am scared and insecure about them. I really feel God is using this reading today to encourage me to just do it.

I love reading my Bible, if for no other reason (and there are many), that God uses His Living Word to touch my life as I live it today. Thank you, Lord!

I will do it!

P.S. II Chr. 3:17 One of the pillars in the temple is named Boaz. I found that very interesting.

Loyalty ~ Day 30

2010-08-03T09:14:00.000-07:00

Today's reading I Chronicles 10:1 - I Chronicles 23: 32

Why? I Chr. 21:3 KJB

Joab is mentioned a lot in the Bible mainly because of his fighting abilities. In this case, Joab is mentioned because he is questioning David's decision to number the people. He did not think that it was a good decision. David's words prevailed and the counting commenced.

I learned a few things here.

I learned to pray for the people in my authority. Pray for them to have wisdom to make the right decisions.
I learned that if I feel they are making a wrong decision I can ask why they are doing this particular decision and then drop it. I need to get out of the way of the Holy Spirit so God can work on the person.
I learned from Joab, you do not go back and say, "I told you so." Just keep serving God because everyone makes mistakes.

Godly Heritage ~ Day 29

2010-08-02T21:25:00.000-07:00

Today's reading I Chronicles 1:1 - I Chronicles 9:44

"...by their generation..." I Chr. 7:6 KJB

As I read the genealogies in these chapters it make me think of the Christian heritage I want to pass down to my own children. I want to leave them a proud Christian heritage that stood on the King James Bible and spread the gospel to a lost and dying world.

Draw Me Nearer ~ Day 28

2010-08-01T07:53:00.000-07:00

Today's reading II Kings 15:27 - II Kings 25:30

"And the Lord rejected all the seed of Israel, and afflicted them, and delivered them into the hands of spoilers, until he had cast them out of his sight." II Kings 17:20 KJB

God was angry. Israel just kept sinning and doing worse and worse that finally God said " Get out of my sight!"

I can remember as a child, my mother saying those words to me when I had been disobedient. Those words cut me to the core. They were worse than a spanking. I knew I had gone to far. Those words made me want to repent quickly but I had to wait for my mom to be ready to speak with me. It had to be on her terms now. Those were very long minutes. Then, when she had calmed down we were able to reconcile.

I do not want to push my Lord like I pushed my mom. I want to stay in good fellowship with him.

Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer blessed Lord...

Somebody's Watching Me ~ Day 27

2010-07-31T08:16:00.000-07:00

Today's reading II Kings 4:38 - II Kings 15:26

" Come see my zeal for the Lord" II Kings 10:16 KJB

Jehu made a big show for everyone to see when he slew all the followers of Baal. But when it came to his walk with God, where it matters, the Bible says that "he took no heed."

What kind of character do you have when you think no one is looking? Do you still serve God, read your Bible and pray? What kind of shows do you watch on TV when you think you won't get caught?

I would like to think that I would serve the Lord when I think no one is watching, as well as publicly because God is always watching me.

Smith's coupon Special

2010-07-30T07:11:00.000-07:00

It is so amazing how couponing has really changed my life. I have been actively couponing since the beginning of the year. I started purely by accident. There is a sight that offers all the links to companies that offer free birthday items. Well, I signed up for them and had so much fun with my four kids going around for two days redeeming coupons for freebies that I was hooked. Now, I print coupons off my computer and I get two Sunday papers and also the All You Magazine.

It does take time to get it together but I would rather do this and homeschool my kids then have a job any day! I enjoy being at home with my children and I LOVE seeing how God blesses our fiances on a weekly bases.

I spend $21 plus tax on the items above. Without coupons and the sale going on at Smiths, for one, I would not have shopped there and two, I would have spent $72.00 plus tax! Thank you, Lord for blessing our home!!

Enough is Not Enough ~ Day 26

2010-07-30T06:39:00.001-07:00

Today's reading I Kings 16:21 - II Kings 4:37

" It is enough; now, O Lord," I Kings 19:4 KJB

Elijah had thought he had reached his breaking point. Little did he know that God was far from done with him.

How many times have I said, " Enough, Lord!" ? God is not done with me either. I am very glad for that!

Delightful People ~ Day 25

2010-07-29T10:43:00.000-07:00

Today's reading I Kings 7:38 - I Kings 16-20

"Blessed be the Lord the G0d, which delighted in thee," I Kings 10:9

When God gives a compliment he is not just saying it to be nice. He is not exaggerating either. If He did not mean it he would not have said it.

I was thinking of the great people whom God has allowed to cross my path. They served God in such a way that make me want to do more for the Lord also.

I am sure that God could say of them that he delighted in them as well. I know I sure did delight in knowing them.

Passing Down ~ Day 24

2010-07-28T06:41:00.000-07:00

Today's reading II Samuel 22:19- I Kings 7:37

"Bring thou down to the grave" I Kings 2:9 KJB

Before he died, David passed a lot down to his son Solomon. His kingdom, his wealth and his enemies. David wanted Solomon to take vengeance on a few people that had down him wrong in his life.

Do I want to pass that kind of legacy down to my children? Wouldn't it be better if I told them how God forgives and that I am not perfect either. My children will give away how I talk about others in our home. I want them to always treat people with kindness. Whether they have done my family wrong or not.

Strength ~ Day 23

2010-07-27T06:42:00.000-07:00

Today's reading II Samuel 12:11- II Samuel 11:18

" He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from them that hate me: for they were too strong for me." II Samuel 22:18 KJB

The mighty king David is admitting weakness here. His enemies were too strong for him? I never saw that. I did not see fear as I have been reading about David. Most battles he was turning to the Lord in advance seeking counsel whether he should go in and receive the victory or not. That did not come across as weakness to me. It seemed to be strength.

The battles I face are nothing like what David faced. Through David's example, I need to learn to bring all decisions to the Lord. There is where my strength will lie.

Associations~ Day 22

2010-07-26T10:25:00.000-07:00

Today's reading I Samuel 28:20- II Samuel 12:10

" And David went on and grew great, and the Lord God of hosts was with him." II Samuel 5:10 KJB

Because David wanted to please God by building a temple even though he did not build the temple he was just able to gather supplies for Solomon his son. God was even able to make it public that he was with David. God was not ashamed to say who he was associating with. David, like us, was not perfect and we know as Christians that God will never leave us or forsake us. I just find it interesting that God wanted everyone to know that he was associating himself with David.

Do I live such a life where the Lord God of hosts would want to make it public that he was with me? How do I treat my family, my neighbors, my enemies? Would God want to publicly associate with me? Would I want people to know I associate with God? Do I act in such a way that I would not want people to know that I am a Christian? This really gets me thinking.

High Expectations~ Day 21

2010-07-25T07:31:00.000-07:00

Today's reading I Samuel 16:1- I Samuel 28:19

" And the Lord said, Arise, anoint him: for this is he." I Samuel 16:12 KJB

Jesse was told to sanctify his family and bring them to Samuel the Prophet. Jesse gathered his children together and for some reason when his thoughts fell on David he did not think it was necessary to include him in the line up. Whatever Samuel had in mind, it surely would not include David.

I need to remember not to under estimate God and what he can do in my life. He made this world I live in out of the words He spoke. He made man from the dust. I need to hold God accountable to His Word and not lower my expectations because I do not see a probable out come.

Nothing~~Day 20

2010-07-24T08:13:00.000-07:00

Today's reading I Samuel 2:30- 15:35

"What have we?" I Samuel 9:7 KJB

Saul went looking for his lost sheep. Then he decided to ask the Seer, which was Samuel, where his sheep were to be found. Saul had no idea that God was using these lost sheep to get Saul to meet with Samuel.

We do not possess anything that God wants. He wants us. Our lives, our love, our attention. What have I to offer the Lord? Nothing. He just wants me.

Alfredo's first egg!

2010-07-23T09:49:00.000-07:00

Meet Alfredo one of five of the new chickens we bought this past Spring. She is the first one to lay an egg for us from her group. I did not know she was going to lay a white one. I am really not up on my chicken knowledge but different breeds lay different colors. Blue, green, white, brown and dark brown with speckles. That is what I know of but I am sure they may be other colors also.

My Hannah has been telling everyone she sees about our new egg, whether we know them or not! The chickens are her job and she was the one that found the new egg. Now the bible says that the first fruits belong to the Lord. So our preacher will be getting the first dozen of our new eggs from our five new chickens.

Thank you Lord for blessing our home!

You May Never Know~Day 19

2010-07-23T07:08:00.001-07:00

Today's Reading Judges 15:13-I Samuel 2:29

"...and Boaz begat Obed, and Obed begat Jesse, and Jesse begat David." Ruth 4:21,22 KJB

There was so much going on in today's reading. First with Samson and Delilah then no judge at all . Then the trouble with the tribe of Benjamin. Then on to Naomi and the marriage of Ruth to Boaz. Then finally to Hannah and her answer to prayer named Samuel.

The Lord laid on my heart the thought that because Ruth was David's great-grandmother, she could have held little David in her arms. It is quite possible that Ruth knew David. I do not know when she died but it could have happened. In her wildest imaginations could she have seen her little great-grandson as the next King of Israel?

I look at my children and I really have no idea where God is going to take them. I am honored to raise them for the Lord. I am very glad I shelter them from this world and the thought that God has a plan for them makes me try harder to prepare them for however God wants to use them.

Such Victories, Such Sorrows~Day 18

2010-07-22T10:26:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Judges 3:28-Judges 15:12

"...didn't I deliver you?" Judges 10:11 KJB

Up to a hilltop victory, down to the valley of sorrow. Up to a victory, down to sorrow. On and on. They did not get it. Obeying the Lord was in their best interest but they kept forsaking God.

The Lord has promised never to leave us or forsake us and I am very thankful that he keeps his word. I never have to wonder where my Lord is.

I am just like the Israelites when I stray. I need to very quickly get back to where the Lord needs me to be. That is where the blessings are. That is where the true comfort lies.

The Great Misunderstanding~~Day 17

2010-07-21T06:47:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Joshua 15:1-Judges 3:27

"...that we might do the serve of the Lord." Joshua 22:27 KJB

The two and a half tribes of Israel that were going back to possess their land while the rest of the tribes stayed in the promise land, stopped to build an altar at the border of their properties. They had good intentions but the 9 and a half tribes of Israel misunderstood their actions and thought they were rebelling. The tribes did not ask the exciting tribes what they were doing. They just accused them.

Doesn't this happen so much still today? Even amongst God's people? Where some one's actions are immediately assumed to be done in rebellion instead of thinking that the person might be doing good.

Let me learn from this passage and not jump to any conclusions about another person's actions until I first bring it to the Lord in prayer for awhile and then to the person directly, if that is even necessary. I should try to always give people the benefit of the doubt. To think good of people instead of bad.

School Supplies FREE!!

2010-07-20T21:03:00.000-07:00

I was not sure what to expect because usually I do not do well at Walgreen's because I get there so late in the week all the good deals shown on my Face Book are gone. I would say God was looking out for me today and I was able to get all these school supplies for free!

The picture on the bottom of the pens I paid 19 cents each for them. Yeah! Thank you very much Lord for helping save on school supplies!

A Memorial ~~Day 16

2010-07-20T06:35:00.001-07:00

Today's reading Joshua 1:1- Joshua 14:15

"What mean ye by these stones?" Joshua 4:6 KJB

When the Israelites crossed over the Jordan river they were told to grab one stone for each tribe as a memorial to tell their children and future generations what the Lord had done for them.

When I go on a trip I like to not only buy souvenirs but I like to grab natural ones we may find along our trip. Like shells or bark or sticks I will even take pictures of buildings or sunsets. Anything that stands out as a memory of our time there.

I do that also when it comes to my spiritual journey. I have ashes taped to my bible for a reminder of a commitment I made to the Lord in a certain area. I have book marks that remind me of mountain top experiences where I had a spiritual victory.

When my children come across these precious mementos I am able to share with them my journey with the Lord and what he has done for me he will do for them also.

Long Life Living~~Day 15

2010-07-20T06:26:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Deut. 23:12- Deut. 34:12

"And the Lord thy God will circumcise thine heart, and the heart of the seed, to love the Lord they God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, that thou mayest live." Deut. 30:6 KJB

God wants us to love him. He has prepared our hearts to love him but he will not force us to. I mean, who would want that kind of love anyway?

I can show God I love him by my obedience to him. My children will see I love God that way also.

Hidden Blessings~ Day 14

2010-07-18T07:53:00.000-07:00

Today's reading Deut. 8:1- Deut. 23:11

"...that ye may live and multiply...for it is he (God) that giveth thee power to get wealth" Deut. 8:1,18 KJB

The Israelites are going into a foreign land. Buildings and homes were already built. Schools and
Churches already built. Roads already laid out throughout the land. So God had to establish laws to keep his children clean so he could continue to bless them. Also, so they could prosper. Not just monetarily but with good health and child bearing.

Let us look at the laws not a weight that we are freed from because of Christ's perfect sacrifice on the cross but as guidelines for healthier living. For example, if we refrained from eating certain animals that are noted in the bible as not clean. How much healthier would our bodies be?

Maybe God has hidden blessings just waiting for us from the Old Testament that would help us to be more be more prosperous in our daily living.

In All Things~~Day 13

2010-07-17T12:06:00.001-07:00

Today's reading Numbers 32:20- Deut. 7:26 KJB

"For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the Lord our God is in all things that we call upon him?" Deut. 4:7

This verse spoke to me because this last week I really saw God in what I was doing.

It kind of reminds me of my daughter Emily. She likes to be touched. So if she is sitting next to me, for example, she will move her hand to touch mine or move my hand so it is on her lap. When I look over at her she just smiles.

God wants me to know he is in my life even in the mundane tasks I have to do. I want to live a life where others can say that God is in all the areas of my life.

I Could Not Have Done Better if I Tried!!

2010-07-16T18:44:00.000-07:00

I would say that I bought these but is that even fair to say, when I did not spend anything on them? This makes couponing so much fun! The total came to ZERO which if I tried to plan it that way it would not have worked out at all. God is so good to me.

I kind of had a frustrating day in that I kept forgetting coupons or deals and then it would mess up my train of thought but God showed me today that He is the one getting me the deals not me. I try to work out the deals and it's like he "one-up's" me, if you know what I mean. I really need him even in an area that I am doing well at. Thank you God for showing me that I can do things better with you as my Guide!