Dear Friend:
In the last few days I have enjoyed family, shopping and laughing a lot. The joy has come from a little assignment the Lord laid on my heart this past week. I picked up my bible and felt stirred to read the book of Hebrews. As the words lay before me and I read the continuous plan God had for all mankind. The writer, explained over and over the love message of God and the identity of Jesus.
I can’t explain fully the strength and peace that I got from the words. God’s word! My message comes with joy and energy to encourage you to read for yourself the word. It does not always work to just imagine from memory the story of Jesus. It is powerful to just read it! Even if you think you know what it says, something about reading it again! Ugh! I wish I could explain it! But just know that it renewed my strength and has given me joy and hope. It is the hope of today! Jesus came! But for us, He is coming back! It is our hope in the midst of these days. It is a bigger thing to come and bigger than our circumstances and bigger than our lives. The Israelites had the hope and it was fulfilled. Some got it and some did not. We have been able to hear the story and know it was true and now wait, wait in anticipation for His coming again.
I leave you with what struck me as I read this morning these actions of Moses. He left His life of luxury with Pharaoh the king. He looked up to the bigger things of life and chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than enjoy the pleasures of sin for a short time. Hebrews 11:25 He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward. Hebrews 11:26
What courage!
Let’s pray: Lord give me the courage, boldness, strength to look at your son Jesus as a greater value than things of life and fulfill what you have for me in the New Year. In Jesus name I pray Amen.
So as 2009 is behind us let approach 2010 with a NEW ATTITUDE!
Peace out,
Elaine
I am a recycler. Anything God teaches me has never been wasted it has always been recycled for God's glory.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Slip Through Your Fingers
Hebrews 4:16 Now that we know what we have-Jesus, this great High Priest with ready access to God-let’s not let it slip through our fingers. We don’t have a priest who is out of touch with our reality. He’s been through weakness and testing, experienced it all-all but the sin. So let’s walk right up to him and get what he is so ready to give. TAKE THE MERCY, ACCEPT THE HELP!
Dear Friend:
Our reality is that life can be hard and there is so much hurting, pain, not enough time and disease. Reality of what’s going on can throw you into asking “what is going on here?” The next step to that is usually panic and from panic we tend to run and ask “what can we do to make a solution to the circumstances?” Then we run for a solution. It is what the prodigal son did. His idea was to get his inheritance and then he could eat, sleep and be merry. But his idea failed. I can only repeat over and over what the word of God says “go to the throne before the phone.” Before you make a decision, pray, pray again and then pray again. Ask God to cover you daily with his thoughts and ways. He can examine your heart. Letting others examine your way could lead to pain and hurt. We must have the Spirit of God helping us with our daily “stuff.”
In this Christmas season we must be reminded of the great Immanuel who came to save us from separation from God. When we understand that Jesus is the only way to getting to God we enter into what the writer in Hebrews says is “REST.” (Hebrews 4:3) I pray that you when you read what Jesus did on the cross, that’s what will take you out of panic and back to reality. Reality is, God is in control and no matter what we go through, he will be with you, he will walk you through.
Bottom line message I think God is saying to you today:
I AM NOT OUT OF TOUCH WITH YOUR REALITY. YOU HAVE ACCESS TO ME-DON’T LET IT SLIP THROUGH YOUR FINGERS.
-GOD-
Let’s pray: Lord I take your mercy and accept your help. Thank you for the reminder of who Jesus is and why he came. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Resting,
Elaine
Dear Friend:
Our reality is that life can be hard and there is so much hurting, pain, not enough time and disease. Reality of what’s going on can throw you into asking “what is going on here?” The next step to that is usually panic and from panic we tend to run and ask “what can we do to make a solution to the circumstances?” Then we run for a solution. It is what the prodigal son did. His idea was to get his inheritance and then he could eat, sleep and be merry. But his idea failed. I can only repeat over and over what the word of God says “go to the throne before the phone.” Before you make a decision, pray, pray again and then pray again. Ask God to cover you daily with his thoughts and ways. He can examine your heart. Letting others examine your way could lead to pain and hurt. We must have the Spirit of God helping us with our daily “stuff.”
In this Christmas season we must be reminded of the great Immanuel who came to save us from separation from God. When we understand that Jesus is the only way to getting to God we enter into what the writer in Hebrews says is “REST.” (Hebrews 4:3) I pray that you when you read what Jesus did on the cross, that’s what will take you out of panic and back to reality. Reality is, God is in control and no matter what we go through, he will be with you, he will walk you through.
Bottom line message I think God is saying to you today:
I AM NOT OUT OF TOUCH WITH YOUR REALITY. YOU HAVE ACCESS TO ME-DON’T LET IT SLIP THROUGH YOUR FINGERS.
-GOD-
Let’s pray: Lord I take your mercy and accept your help. Thank you for the reminder of who Jesus is and why he came. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Resting,
Elaine
Monday, December 14, 2009
Slingin' Snot
Luke 2:13-18 At once the angel was joined by a huge angelic choir singing God's praises:
Glory to God in the heavenly heights,
Peace to all men and women on earth who please him.
15-18As the angel choir withdrew into heaven, the sheepherders talked it over. "Let's get over to Bethlehem as fast as we can and see for ourselves what God has revealed to us." They left, running, and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. Seeing was believing. They told everyone they met what the angels had said about this child. All who heard the sheepherders were impressed.
Dear Friend:
I am sure curiosity struck you when looked at the title of this Heart 2 Heart and maybe you even exclaimed “gross!” The title came straight out a Pastor’s mouth this past Sunday as he described his story when he reacted to a coat drive that our church is doing. He walked the lobby and saw hundreds of coats hanging everywhere and being a very emotional person he confessed he was “slingin’ snot” or as another would say “crying.” LOL! I never heard that saying so I thought I would pass it along.
In the scripture above it says “seeing was believing.” The shepherds heard but were probably moved emotionally when they saw the Messiah. We don’t always get moved by something significant until we see it with our own eyes. The Pastor was moved by seeing the huge amount of coats in the lobby of the church.
How are you moved by the significance of Christmas? I am always moved to tears when I listen and even look at the words to traditional hymn Christmas songs or rereading the Christmas story. I agree with the angels who in the above verse proclaimed “Glory to God in the Highest and peace to men on earth who please God.” If we want to see God and understand who He is, we must believe. What will you do till December 25, to experience the true meaning of Christmas? I bet you can see God working this Christmas Season if you look like the Pastor did at the church coat drive. God is working through His people all around us, that is the miracle of Christmas.
Let’s pray: Father in Heaven thank you for this time of the year when I remember the birth of the Messiah. Help me to see and believe as the shepherds did. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Should I say I am slingin’ snot or teary eyed over “Christ”mas?
Elaine
Glory to God in the heavenly heights,
Peace to all men and women on earth who please him.
15-18As the angel choir withdrew into heaven, the sheepherders talked it over. "Let's get over to Bethlehem as fast as we can and see for ourselves what God has revealed to us." They left, running, and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. Seeing was believing. They told everyone they met what the angels had said about this child. All who heard the sheepherders were impressed.
Dear Friend:
I am sure curiosity struck you when looked at the title of this Heart 2 Heart and maybe you even exclaimed “gross!” The title came straight out a Pastor’s mouth this past Sunday as he described his story when he reacted to a coat drive that our church is doing. He walked the lobby and saw hundreds of coats hanging everywhere and being a very emotional person he confessed he was “slingin’ snot” or as another would say “crying.” LOL! I never heard that saying so I thought I would pass it along.
In the scripture above it says “seeing was believing.” The shepherds heard but were probably moved emotionally when they saw the Messiah. We don’t always get moved by something significant until we see it with our own eyes. The Pastor was moved by seeing the huge amount of coats in the lobby of the church.
How are you moved by the significance of Christmas? I am always moved to tears when I listen and even look at the words to traditional hymn Christmas songs or rereading the Christmas story. I agree with the angels who in the above verse proclaimed “Glory to God in the Highest and peace to men on earth who please God.” If we want to see God and understand who He is, we must believe. What will you do till December 25, to experience the true meaning of Christmas? I bet you can see God working this Christmas Season if you look like the Pastor did at the church coat drive. God is working through His people all around us, that is the miracle of Christmas.
Let’s pray: Father in Heaven thank you for this time of the year when I remember the birth of the Messiah. Help me to see and believe as the shepherds did. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Should I say I am slingin’ snot or teary eyed over “Christ”mas?
Elaine
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Ton of Headaches
16 A simple life in the Fear-of-GOD
is better than a rich life with a ton of headaches. PROVERBS 15:16
Dear Friend:
Got headaches? Try this medicine: a simple life in FEAR-OF-GOD.
Here’s an example:
Hebrews 11:7
By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.
Noah’s holy fear helped him to see the warning signs regarding the great flood. Noah had no crowd to follow. His family was the only family that listened, stepped out in faith and by building an Ark. Noah had great courage to follow God’s leading, but it paid off because it says “he became the heir of the righteousness.”
Grab hold of the simple life!
Let’s pray: I ask today God that you can show me and grow me so I can trust you more. Let me see things in this Christmas season the way you do. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Taking my daily dose,
Elaine
is better than a rich life with a ton of headaches. PROVERBS 15:16
Dear Friend:
Got headaches? Try this medicine: a simple life in FEAR-OF-GOD.
Here’s an example:
Hebrews 11:7
By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.
Noah’s holy fear helped him to see the warning signs regarding the great flood. Noah had no crowd to follow. His family was the only family that listened, stepped out in faith and by building an Ark. Noah had great courage to follow God’s leading, but it paid off because it says “he became the heir of the righteousness.”
Grab hold of the simple life!
Let’s pray: I ask today God that you can show me and grow me so I can trust you more. Let me see things in this Christmas season the way you do. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Taking my daily dose,
Elaine
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Give This Christmas Away
http://matthewwest.com/
"And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.' "
—Acts 20:35
Dear Friend:
Have you started your Christmas shopping? I heard a Christian singer and songwriter, Matthew West, on the radio and his Christmas message is called “give this Christmas away.” You can find information about it on the above website. He wrote a Christmas song and book encouraging us all to make a list of what we want to give away for Christmas. The verse above is a reminder from Jesus “it is more blessed to give than receive.” It is the beginning of the month and we have 25 days to give.
So here is the message:
Enjoy giving! -GOD-
Let’s pray: Father in Heaven thank you for reminding me today of the great gift you gave me. You gave of yourself for my eternal security. I am so blessed. Help me to make a list and give as you gave. In Jesus name I pray Amen.
Loving God,
Elaine
Matthew West will be in Oakbrook on Dec. 6.
"And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.' "
—Acts 20:35
Dear Friend:
Have you started your Christmas shopping? I heard a Christian singer and songwriter, Matthew West, on the radio and his Christmas message is called “give this Christmas away.” You can find information about it on the above website. He wrote a Christmas song and book encouraging us all to make a list of what we want to give away for Christmas. The verse above is a reminder from Jesus “it is more blessed to give than receive.” It is the beginning of the month and we have 25 days to give.
So here is the message:
Enjoy giving! -GOD-
Let’s pray: Father in Heaven thank you for reminding me today of the great gift you gave me. You gave of yourself for my eternal security. I am so blessed. Help me to make a list and give as you gave. In Jesus name I pray Amen.
Loving God,
Elaine
Matthew West will be in Oakbrook on Dec. 6.
Remain True
Acts 11:23 23When he arrived and saw the evidence of the grace (favor) of God; he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts.
Dear Friend:
Remaining true to yourself and God takes time. Time is something we seem to never have enough of these days. In the book of Acts it explains the period right after Jesus went to heaven. The news of Jesus Christ was spreading and at first the Apostles thought this good news was only for the Jews. In Acts 11, it became evident that there were gentiles who received the grace of God. The Apostles were filled with joy upon hearing and seeing that many were coming to the saving grace of Jesus. The Holy Spirit was giving ALL the power to “Remain True” to the Lord with all their hearts. With resolute and steadiness we must REMAIN TRUE to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
That is the message for today.
Do not compromise. Remain True. –God-
Let’s pray: Your evidence of grace is all around me and I am filled with joy. Help me to remain true to you with all my heart. When I don’t see the grace (favor) help me to see it. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
God is your biggest fan and He loves you!
Love from Above,
Elaine
Dear Friend:
Remaining true to yourself and God takes time. Time is something we seem to never have enough of these days. In the book of Acts it explains the period right after Jesus went to heaven. The news of Jesus Christ was spreading and at first the Apostles thought this good news was only for the Jews. In Acts 11, it became evident that there were gentiles who received the grace of God. The Apostles were filled with joy upon hearing and seeing that many were coming to the saving grace of Jesus. The Holy Spirit was giving ALL the power to “Remain True” to the Lord with all their hearts. With resolute and steadiness we must REMAIN TRUE to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
That is the message for today.
Do not compromise. Remain True. –God-
Let’s pray: Your evidence of grace is all around me and I am filled with joy. Help me to remain true to you with all my heart. When I don’t see the grace (favor) help me to see it. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
God is your biggest fan and He loves you!
Love from Above,
Elaine
Fear Not
Ps 34: 4 I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.
Ps 34:7 the angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.
God is saying “you have sought me and I am answering, I will deliver you from all your fears. I have angels of mine encamping around you who fear me, and I deliver you!
-JESUS-
Let’s pray: Lord thank you for this kind and gentle word. It fills me up today. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Fear free,
Elaine
Ps 34:7 the angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.
God is saying “you have sought me and I am answering, I will deliver you from all your fears. I have angels of mine encamping around you who fear me, and I deliver you!
-JESUS-
Let’s pray: Lord thank you for this kind and gentle word. It fills me up today. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Fear free,
Elaine
Guardian Angel
Matthew 18:10 See that you do not look down on one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.
Acts 12:15 you’re out of your mind, they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, “it must be his angel.”
Dear Friend:
I was perusing through the Bible recently and I came across the verse above in Matthew. Jesus spoke to his disciples about His children and right in the verse it gives evidence of a guardian angel. Isn’t it always reassuring to know that we are being looked out for? I know we have God and we are not to worship angels, but they are God’s helpers. The disciple Peter was getting out of prison and he goes to the house of Mary, mother of John, and a servant girl Rhoda answers the door. She runs to tell the others “he as at the door.” They respond “it must be his angel.” We are never alone, if we can just grasp the magnitude of that!
I think God is giving us a message for today!
I will command angels, concerning you to guard you in all your ways! -God-
(Psalm 91:11)
Will you pray with me: Father in heaven thank you for commanding the angels concerning me to guard me in all my ways. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Never alone,
Elaine
Acts 12:15 you’re out of your mind, they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, “it must be his angel.”
Dear Friend:
I was perusing through the Bible recently and I came across the verse above in Matthew. Jesus spoke to his disciples about His children and right in the verse it gives evidence of a guardian angel. Isn’t it always reassuring to know that we are being looked out for? I know we have God and we are not to worship angels, but they are God’s helpers. The disciple Peter was getting out of prison and he goes to the house of Mary, mother of John, and a servant girl Rhoda answers the door. She runs to tell the others “he as at the door.” They respond “it must be his angel.” We are never alone, if we can just grasp the magnitude of that!
I think God is giving us a message for today!
I will command angels, concerning you to guard you in all your ways! -God-
(Psalm 91:11)
Will you pray with me: Father in heaven thank you for commanding the angels concerning me to guard me in all my ways. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Never alone,
Elaine
Exuberant Life
Galatians 5:22-23 But what happens when we live God's way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.
Dear Friend:
I don’t know about you but being exuberant for life sounds pretty good to me!
I want to give you a gift- affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity, willingness to stick with things, and a sense of compassion in the heart. You will find yourself in loyal commitments, no need to force your way in life, and be able to direct your energy wisely.
-GOD-
My response:
God I want to live your way. I want these gifts so I can live a more exuberant life for you! Lead me.
In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
I like saying “exuberant!”
Elaine
Dear Friend:
I don’t know about you but being exuberant for life sounds pretty good to me!
I want to give you a gift- affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity, willingness to stick with things, and a sense of compassion in the heart. You will find yourself in loyal commitments, no need to force your way in life, and be able to direct your energy wisely.
-GOD-
My response:
God I want to live your way. I want these gifts so I can live a more exuberant life for you! Lead me.
In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
I like saying “exuberant!”
Elaine
Friday, October 23, 2009
Without a Doubt
Romans 8:33-38 (The Message) So, what do you think? With God on our side like this, how can we lose? If God didn't hesitate to put everything on the line for us, embracing our condition and exposing himself to the worst by sending his own Son, is there anything else he wouldn't gladly and freely do for us? And who would dare tangle with God by messing with one of God's chosen? Who would dare even to point a finger? The One who died for us—who was raised to life for us!—is in the presence of God at this very moment sticking up for us. Do you think anyone is going to be able to drive a wedge between us and Christ's love for us? There is no way! Not trouble, not hard times, not hatred, not hunger, not homelessness, not bullying threats, not backstabbing, not even the worst sins listed in Scripture:
They kill us in cold blood because they hate you.
We're sitting ducks; they pick us off one by one.
None of this fazes us because Jesus loves us. I'm absolutely convinced that nothing—nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today or tomorrow, high or low, thinkable or unthinkable—absolutely nothing can get between us and God's love because of the way that Jesus our Master has embraced us.
Dear Friend:
I am writing this message because of the strong word within me today. Our sisters and brothers in Christ our suffering all sorts of hardships, maybe you are one who is suffering also. As I pray for these friends I get mad at the devil and humbled before the Father. I ask the Father what is going on with your saints. The response is very very strong within me….
I will never forsake you or leave you! There is no way! Not trouble, not hard times, not hatred, not hunger, not homelessness, not bullying threats, not backstabbing, nothing can get between you and me. –GOD-
I am reminded of the scripture right before the above verse. Romans 8:28 and we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. So I am saying to you today absolutely without a doubt if you love Jesus, he will bring good out of your situation. It is His promise and God never ever lies. Hang on help is on the way!
Let’s pray: Father in heaven I thank you for reminding me today of your promises and I will look for the good and rest assured. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Looking above,
Elaine
They kill us in cold blood because they hate you.
We're sitting ducks; they pick us off one by one.
None of this fazes us because Jesus loves us. I'm absolutely convinced that nothing—nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today or tomorrow, high or low, thinkable or unthinkable—absolutely nothing can get between us and God's love because of the way that Jesus our Master has embraced us.
Dear Friend:
I am writing this message because of the strong word within me today. Our sisters and brothers in Christ our suffering all sorts of hardships, maybe you are one who is suffering also. As I pray for these friends I get mad at the devil and humbled before the Father. I ask the Father what is going on with your saints. The response is very very strong within me….
I will never forsake you or leave you! There is no way! Not trouble, not hard times, not hatred, not hunger, not homelessness, not bullying threats, not backstabbing, nothing can get between you and me. –GOD-
I am reminded of the scripture right before the above verse. Romans 8:28 and we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. So I am saying to you today absolutely without a doubt if you love Jesus, he will bring good out of your situation. It is His promise and God never ever lies. Hang on help is on the way!
Let’s pray: Father in heaven I thank you for reminding me today of your promises and I will look for the good and rest assured. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Looking above,
Elaine
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Handicap
2 Corinthians 12:10 10 that is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
My grace is enough; it's all you need.
My strength comes into its own in your weakness.
Once I heard that, I was glad to let it happen. I quit focusing on the handicap and began appreciating the gift. It was a case of Christ's strength moving in on my weakness. Now I take limitations in stride, and with good cheer, these limitations that cut me down to size—abuse, accidents, opposition, bad breaks. I just let Christ take over! And so the weaker I get, the stronger I become.
Dear Friend:
In life we sometimes feel like we have some weaknesses. Examples of that could be anxiety, worry, and anger. We know that people or circumstances could make these weaknesses appear. Some days I wake up feeling weak and this verse always pops into my mind. I wrote it above in two versions for you to get the idea of what God wants to say to you today. When we admit our weaknesses we learn to turn to God and let Him work things outs.
My grace is enough; it’s all you need. My strength comes into its own in your weakness. –God-
Let’s pray about it: Lord I want to quit focusing on the handicap and begin appreciating the gift. So take over Christ and help me to remember the weaker I get, the stronger I become. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Appreciating God,
Elaine
My grace is enough; it's all you need.
My strength comes into its own in your weakness.
Once I heard that, I was glad to let it happen. I quit focusing on the handicap and began appreciating the gift. It was a case of Christ's strength moving in on my weakness. Now I take limitations in stride, and with good cheer, these limitations that cut me down to size—abuse, accidents, opposition, bad breaks. I just let Christ take over! And so the weaker I get, the stronger I become.
Dear Friend:
In life we sometimes feel like we have some weaknesses. Examples of that could be anxiety, worry, and anger. We know that people or circumstances could make these weaknesses appear. Some days I wake up feeling weak and this verse always pops into my mind. I wrote it above in two versions for you to get the idea of what God wants to say to you today. When we admit our weaknesses we learn to turn to God and let Him work things outs.
My grace is enough; it’s all you need. My strength comes into its own in your weakness. –God-
Let’s pray about it: Lord I want to quit focusing on the handicap and begin appreciating the gift. So take over Christ and help me to remember the weaker I get, the stronger I become. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Appreciating God,
Elaine
Monday, October 5, 2009
Believe
1 Peter 1:2 God the Father knew you and chose you long ago and his Spirit made you holy. As a result, you have obeyed him and have been cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ. May God give you more and more grace and peace.
Dear Friend:
Hi how are you today? I have decided to memorize the above verse. Hiding God’s truth in my heart I know is important.
A message for you:
I chose you long ago.
My spirit made you holy.
You have been able to obey me and be cleansed by my blood.
I want to give you more and more grace and peace. –God-
God has spoken and continues to speak receive and believe!
Let’s pray together: God the Father you chose me long ago and your Spirit made me holy. I obey you and know I have been cleansed by your blood. May you give me more and more grace and peace. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Putting 1Peter 1:2 to memory,
Elaine
Dear Friend:
Hi how are you today? I have decided to memorize the above verse. Hiding God’s truth in my heart I know is important.
A message for you:
I chose you long ago.
My spirit made you holy.
You have been able to obey me and be cleansed by my blood.
I want to give you more and more grace and peace. –God-
God has spoken and continues to speak receive and believe!
Let’s pray together: God the Father you chose me long ago and your Spirit made me holy. I obey you and know I have been cleansed by your blood. May you give me more and more grace and peace. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Putting 1Peter 1:2 to memory,
Elaine
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Put Together Your Heart
Psalm 86:11-17 Train me, GOD, to walk straight; then I'll follow your true path. Put me together, one heart and mind; then, undivided, I'll worship in joyful fear. From the bottom of my heart I thank you, dear Lord; I’ve never kept secret what you're up to. You've always been great toward me—what love! You snatched me from the brink of disaster! God, these bullies have reared their heads!
A gang of thugs is after me— and they don't care a thing about you. But you, O God, are both tender and kind, not easily angered, immense in love, and you never, never quit. So look me in the eye and show kindness, give your servant the strength to go on, save your dear, dear child! Make a show of how much you love me so the bullies who hate me will stand there slack-jawed, as you, GOD, gently and powerfully put me back on my feet.
Dear Friend:
When my youngest daughter was 6 years old she wrote silly kid songs and would walk around singing them. I kept them and one had the words repeated over and over “Put Together, Put Together your heart.” I saw the above verse and it reminded me of her song. Putting together our heart and mind with God’s word creates energy for us to live! What a heart cry from the above Psalmist.
I’m looking you in the eye and showing you kindness, giving you strength to go on! I’m snatching you from the brink of disaster and the bullies! -GOD-
Let’s pray: Father in heaven put together my heart and help me to experience FREEDOM.
Thanks you. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Putting together,
Elaine
A gang of thugs is after me— and they don't care a thing about you. But you, O God, are both tender and kind, not easily angered, immense in love, and you never, never quit. So look me in the eye and show kindness, give your servant the strength to go on, save your dear, dear child! Make a show of how much you love me so the bullies who hate me will stand there slack-jawed, as you, GOD, gently and powerfully put me back on my feet.
Dear Friend:
When my youngest daughter was 6 years old she wrote silly kid songs and would walk around singing them. I kept them and one had the words repeated over and over “Put Together, Put Together your heart.” I saw the above verse and it reminded me of her song. Putting together our heart and mind with God’s word creates energy for us to live! What a heart cry from the above Psalmist.
I’m looking you in the eye and showing you kindness, giving you strength to go on! I’m snatching you from the brink of disaster and the bullies! -GOD-
Let’s pray: Father in heaven put together my heart and help me to experience FREEDOM.
Thanks you. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Putting together,
Elaine
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Jumble Puzzles
My grandma passed away last night around 845p. Yes, that is my mom’s mom, 89 years old. I was with her and she fought the good fight. She was as sweet as can be. Had actually a beautiful day with her.
As I sat with my grandma yesterday in the morning. She was still coherent and holding my hand. My sister had given me a verse the day before Phil 4:8. It is a famous verse and I always used the verse for my children saying “Philippians 4:8 that TV show, movie, music.” I even caught my son saying to his sister “Philippians 4:8 that show.”
Philippians 4:8 8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
I had been caring my mom’s bible to read passage to Grandma and saying “oh mom marked this and that.” I looked up Phil. 4:8 and my mom did not have that verse marked but she had verse:
Philippians 4:9 9Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
I had my computer with me and just being filled with such joy knowing I was sitting in the right place comforting my Grandma, I began to play with the two verses. I will now call Phil. 4:9 my “Learn, Receive, Hear, put it into practice” verse. If you put it into practice the results will be, “The peace of God will be with you.” When I was young, I was the Jumble queen in my home. I could get the newspaper and do the word jumbles in no time. I loved that my mind worked so fast. Philippians 4 the verse eight has 8 things we are advised to think on, so I took the beginning of each word and tried to come up with a word so that I could remember the 8 things I should think on each day. Here is what I can only come up with “TRANPPLE” I thought of “APPLE-NRT.” Wish it could have been a word.
Pray with me: Father in Heaven may I today remember the things that you would want me to think on. Thank you for my Grandma’s life. As I learn, receive and hear from you may I have the courage to put it into practice. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Love from above,
Elaine
As I sat with my grandma yesterday in the morning. She was still coherent and holding my hand. My sister had given me a verse the day before Phil 4:8. It is a famous verse and I always used the verse for my children saying “Philippians 4:8 that TV show, movie, music.” I even caught my son saying to his sister “Philippians 4:8 that show.”
Philippians 4:8 8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
I had been caring my mom’s bible to read passage to Grandma and saying “oh mom marked this and that.” I looked up Phil. 4:8 and my mom did not have that verse marked but she had verse:
Philippians 4:9 9Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
I had my computer with me and just being filled with such joy knowing I was sitting in the right place comforting my Grandma, I began to play with the two verses. I will now call Phil. 4:9 my “Learn, Receive, Hear, put it into practice” verse. If you put it into practice the results will be, “The peace of God will be with you.” When I was young, I was the Jumble queen in my home. I could get the newspaper and do the word jumbles in no time. I loved that my mind worked so fast. Philippians 4 the verse eight has 8 things we are advised to think on, so I took the beginning of each word and tried to come up with a word so that I could remember the 8 things I should think on each day. Here is what I can only come up with “TRANPPLE” I thought of “APPLE-NRT.” Wish it could have been a word.
Pray with me: Father in Heaven may I today remember the things that you would want me to think on. Thank you for my Grandma’s life. As I learn, receive and hear from you may I have the courage to put it into practice. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Love from above,
Elaine
Fear Not
My pledge not to fear circumstances or man. May this become your pledge too!
Blessings,
Elaine
FEAR NOT
Lord you are light,
Shall I fear?
My heart shall not fear.
Though war may rise against me,
I am fully armored,
My weapons are up,
I am standing firm
With my feet firmly planted on the solid
Rock of Jesus Christ.
The Lord is my helper;
I will not fear.
What can man do to me?
I am a conqueror through Him who loves me.
I will fear no evil for you are with me.
Nothing shall separate me from the Love of God.
I shall not be afraid of the terror at night,
Nor the arrow that flies by day,
Nor the destruction that lays waste at noonday.
Jesus takes fear!
I shall have angels charge over me, to keep me in all my ways.
A thousand may fall at my side, and ten thousand at my right hand;
But it shall not come near me.
I shall be far from oppression, for I shall not fear;
And from terror for it shall not come near me.
I have a spirit of power, love and sound mind.
I do not have a spirit of bondage;
Again to fear. I received the
Spirit of adoption by whom I cry out “Abba, Father.”
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment.
I will not be tormented.
I am hidden in the secret place of the Most High
Under the shadow of the Almighty.
I am covered with His feathers, and under His wings I am taking refuge.
His truth shall be my shield and buckler.,
God is for me, who can be against me?
Neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate me from the love of God
Which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Blessings,
Elaine
FEAR NOT
Lord you are light,
Shall I fear?
My heart shall not fear.
Though war may rise against me,
I am fully armored,
My weapons are up,
I am standing firm
With my feet firmly planted on the solid
Rock of Jesus Christ.
The Lord is my helper;
I will not fear.
What can man do to me?
I am a conqueror through Him who loves me.
I will fear no evil for you are with me.
Nothing shall separate me from the Love of God.
I shall not be afraid of the terror at night,
Nor the arrow that flies by day,
Nor the destruction that lays waste at noonday.
Jesus takes fear!
I shall have angels charge over me, to keep me in all my ways.
A thousand may fall at my side, and ten thousand at my right hand;
But it shall not come near me.
I shall be far from oppression, for I shall not fear;
And from terror for it shall not come near me.
I have a spirit of power, love and sound mind.
I do not have a spirit of bondage;
Again to fear. I received the
Spirit of adoption by whom I cry out “Abba, Father.”
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment.
I will not be tormented.
I am hidden in the secret place of the Most High
Under the shadow of the Almighty.
I am covered with His feathers, and under His wings I am taking refuge.
His truth shall be my shield and buckler.,
God is for me, who can be against me?
Neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate me from the love of God
Which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Love Bug
I wrote this recently in June after my mom died. Matthew 5:4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. The Lord gave me this after a hug from a special person.
Enjoy!
LOVE BUG
An affectionate embrace
Or hug of love,
Is so reassuring and comforting.
Every time my love hugs me
I feel safe and secure.
My mind wanders
To my Father
In Heaven.
His embrace and His love
It endures forever.
It is perfect.
It is kind.
It is everlasting.
It is patient.
It never forsakes me,
Or leaves me.
It never keeps a record
Of my wrong-doings.
An embrace is a sacred thing
I say bring it on!
It makes me feel safe.
So take a leap of faith
And be embraced.
Be refreshed, be reassured!
As I am held
I breathe in and breathe out
With a cleansing breath.
Oh so healing, Oh so good.
My heart leaps with joy.
I never want the embrace to end.
Life calls. I hear it in my head.
I take the moment in
And reluctantly release the embrace.
I look forward to the next hug.
I am hooked
I am transfixed.
I’ve got that “Love Bug.”
P.S. I ALSO THINK I HAD JUST GOT BACK FROM A JONAS BROTHER CONCERT, YOU KNOW THEY HAVE THE SONG “LOVE BUG.” LOL!
Enjoy!
LOVE BUG
An affectionate embrace
Or hug of love,
Is so reassuring and comforting.
Every time my love hugs me
I feel safe and secure.
My mind wanders
To my Father
In Heaven.
His embrace and His love
It endures forever.
It is perfect.
It is kind.
It is everlasting.
It is patient.
It never forsakes me,
Or leaves me.
It never keeps a record
Of my wrong-doings.
An embrace is a sacred thing
I say bring it on!
It makes me feel safe.
So take a leap of faith
And be embraced.
Be refreshed, be reassured!
As I am held
I breathe in and breathe out
With a cleansing breath.
Oh so healing, Oh so good.
My heart leaps with joy.
I never want the embrace to end.
Life calls. I hear it in my head.
I take the moment in
And reluctantly release the embrace.
I look forward to the next hug.
I am hooked
I am transfixed.
I’ve got that “Love Bug.”
P.S. I ALSO THINK I HAD JUST GOT BACK FROM A JONAS BROTHER CONCERT, YOU KNOW THEY HAVE THE SONG “LOVE BUG.” LOL!
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Pollution
Dear Friend:
Today everything is about the “Go Green” campaign. When I was in school everything was about “Pollution” and what can we do to cut down on it. Just like today we had projects and discussion with our teachers of how to rid our world of the pollution and what the greatest concerns were. There are so many things that we have stopped doing to help cut down on pollution. My mom would stop at McDonald’s and get us a burger and after eating that we would throw the garbage out the window. It was an acceptable thing at the time. As I got older and the awareness to pollution grew, they cities started putting up signs stating that there will be fines for throwing garbage on the streets. We had to get to a place of being fined because not many wanted to take the future problems seriously.
This is a continuous problem God has with His people. We pollute ourselves with internet access, movies, TV, magazines and music and we have trouble living how God wants us to live, here is what God want to say to us:
James 2:27b keep oneself from being polluted by the world. –GOD-
We must decide today to take the whole truth of God’s word and live by it otherwise we will be fined. Some of the fines we are paying come in the form of natural consequences to our actions like broken marriages, STD’s, Aids, sex offenses, unwanted pregnancies, rejection, loneliness, pride , drug and alcohol abuse.
Pray with me: Father in Heaven I want to keep myself from being polluted by the world. Help me to live it! In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Trying to stop Pollution,
Elaine
Today everything is about the “Go Green” campaign. When I was in school everything was about “Pollution” and what can we do to cut down on it. Just like today we had projects and discussion with our teachers of how to rid our world of the pollution and what the greatest concerns were. There are so many things that we have stopped doing to help cut down on pollution. My mom would stop at McDonald’s and get us a burger and after eating that we would throw the garbage out the window. It was an acceptable thing at the time. As I got older and the awareness to pollution grew, they cities started putting up signs stating that there will be fines for throwing garbage on the streets. We had to get to a place of being fined because not many wanted to take the future problems seriously.
This is a continuous problem God has with His people. We pollute ourselves with internet access, movies, TV, magazines and music and we have trouble living how God wants us to live, here is what God want to say to us:
James 2:27b keep oneself from being polluted by the world. –GOD-
We must decide today to take the whole truth of God’s word and live by it otherwise we will be fined. Some of the fines we are paying come in the form of natural consequences to our actions like broken marriages, STD’s, Aids, sex offenses, unwanted pregnancies, rejection, loneliness, pride , drug and alcohol abuse.
Pray with me: Father in Heaven I want to keep myself from being polluted by the world. Help me to live it! In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Trying to stop Pollution,
Elaine
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Check-up
Matthew 12:34b-36 For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. 35The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. 36But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken.
Dear Friend:
I saw this verse this morning and thought to myself that every day we should do a check-up on ourselves. What is going on in our heart? It takes time! Rushing through life causes us to be quick to react and say things we regret. My Mom has said to me “I am a Mom I should be able to say whatever I want to my kids any time.” I don’t agree with that. We can be vulnerable to evil and letting our mouths say things we shouldn’t.
I choose today to follow God.
Psalm 145:8 8 The LORD is gracious and compassionate,
slow to anger and rich in love.
This verse is repeated 9 times in the Old Testament. God is our physician for our heart, let’s let him write a prescription and give the advice.
I want you to watch the overflow of your heart. It can be deadly. –GOD-
Let’s pray: Father in heaven you are gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. Help me today to be more like you. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Slowing down,
Elaine
Dear Friend:
I saw this verse this morning and thought to myself that every day we should do a check-up on ourselves. What is going on in our heart? It takes time! Rushing through life causes us to be quick to react and say things we regret. My Mom has said to me “I am a Mom I should be able to say whatever I want to my kids any time.” I don’t agree with that. We can be vulnerable to evil and letting our mouths say things we shouldn’t.
I choose today to follow God.
Psalm 145:8 8 The LORD is gracious and compassionate,
slow to anger and rich in love.
This verse is repeated 9 times in the Old Testament. God is our physician for our heart, let’s let him write a prescription and give the advice.
I want you to watch the overflow of your heart. It can be deadly. –GOD-
Let’s pray: Father in heaven you are gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. Help me today to be more like you. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Slowing down,
Elaine
Friday, July 17, 2009
You Have It Made
1 Samuel 17:55-58 (The Message)55 When Saul saw David go out to meet the Philistine, he said to Abner, commander of the army, "Tell me about this young man's family." Abner said, "For the life of me, O King, I don't know." 56 The king said, "Well, find out the lineage of this raw youth." 57 As soon as David came back from killing the Philistine, Abner brought him, the Philistine's head still in his hand, straight to Saul. 58 Saul asked him, "Young man, whose son are you?" "I'm the son of your servant Jesse," said David, "the one who lives in Bethlehem."
1 Samuel 17:25-25(The Message) the Israelites, to a man, fell back the moment they saw the giant— totally frightened. The talk among the troops was, "Have you ever seen anything like this, this man openly and defiantly challenging Israel? The man who kills the giant will have it made. The king will give him a huge reward, offer his daughter as a bride, and give his entire family a free ride."
Dear Friend:
We have so many decisions or Goliath’s in our lives these days. Don’t be fearful when, someone in your life conquers their Goliath, to reward and praise them or even admit that you tried to stop them and you were wrong.
David had family and friends trying to stop him from going after Goliath, but God built something in Him that enabled Him to not listen to the voices and just do what he knew God had put in Him to do. In the end it gave David’s entire family a free ride. It doesn’t say, but I hope David’s brother went back and congratulated him rather than getting jealous.
This passage also teaches us to follow our heart and do everything to our best ability and that brings honor to God. God makes you in turn feel that no matter what “You Have It Made!”
Let’s pray: Lord, help me to do everything to the best of my ability. I pray that I bring honor to your name. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Elaine
1 Samuel 17:25-25(The Message) the Israelites, to a man, fell back the moment they saw the giant— totally frightened. The talk among the troops was, "Have you ever seen anything like this, this man openly and defiantly challenging Israel? The man who kills the giant will have it made. The king will give him a huge reward, offer his daughter as a bride, and give his entire family a free ride."
Dear Friend:
We have so many decisions or Goliath’s in our lives these days. Don’t be fearful when, someone in your life conquers their Goliath, to reward and praise them or even admit that you tried to stop them and you were wrong.
David had family and friends trying to stop him from going after Goliath, but God built something in Him that enabled Him to not listen to the voices and just do what he knew God had put in Him to do. In the end it gave David’s entire family a free ride. It doesn’t say, but I hope David’s brother went back and congratulated him rather than getting jealous.
This passage also teaches us to follow our heart and do everything to our best ability and that brings honor to God. God makes you in turn feel that no matter what “You Have It Made!”
Let’s pray: Lord, help me to do everything to the best of my ability. I pray that I bring honor to your name. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Elaine
Monday, June 29, 2009
UHM....
1 Chronicles 17:2 2 Nathan replied to David, "Whatever you have in mind, do it, for God is with you."
Dear Friend:
Uhm…what should I do?
When we feel as if God is not speaking, because God’s spirit is in your heart, you should trust the inner witness that you sense about what you should or should not do. Do what you believe to be best based on the knowledge you have, and be willing to change if and when God shows you something definite. At first Nathan was saying do what was in David’s heart then as you read on in 1 Chronicle the Lord gives more definite plans to Nathan. He says “that what was on David’s heart to build a temple now God was giving definite instructions that it would be his son who would build the temple.”
Let’s pray: Father give me the courage to follow my heart with peace. Speak to me with definite instruction. Lord thank you for always growing me and making me more like you.
In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Trusting my inner witness,
Elaine
Dear Friend:
Uhm…what should I do?
When we feel as if God is not speaking, because God’s spirit is in your heart, you should trust the inner witness that you sense about what you should or should not do. Do what you believe to be best based on the knowledge you have, and be willing to change if and when God shows you something definite. At first Nathan was saying do what was in David’s heart then as you read on in 1 Chronicle the Lord gives more definite plans to Nathan. He says “that what was on David’s heart to build a temple now God was giving definite instructions that it would be his son who would build the temple.”
Let’s pray: Father give me the courage to follow my heart with peace. Speak to me with definite instruction. Lord thank you for always growing me and making me more like you.
In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Trusting my inner witness,
Elaine
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Never Perish
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you, 1Peter 1:3
Dear Friend:
This has been a time of grieving for me. My mom passed away this past week. It was so hard to say good-bye. But every prayer that went out for my strength has been answered. What I was imagining that I could never do, put my mom to rest, I did. The above verse gives me such assurance of where my mom is and that brings me indescribable peace.
Pray with me: Lord, help me to continue to walk in assurance in knowing how you brought your son to die for me so I can be with you in heaven. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Walking in a peace that passes all understanding and it is guarding my heart and mind in Christ Jesus my Lord!
Elaine
KEEP PRAYING FOR ME AND MY FAMILY!
Dear Friend:
This has been a time of grieving for me. My mom passed away this past week. It was so hard to say good-bye. But every prayer that went out for my strength has been answered. What I was imagining that I could never do, put my mom to rest, I did. The above verse gives me such assurance of where my mom is and that brings me indescribable peace.
Pray with me: Lord, help me to continue to walk in assurance in knowing how you brought your son to die for me so I can be with you in heaven. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Walking in a peace that passes all understanding and it is guarding my heart and mind in Christ Jesus my Lord!
Elaine
KEEP PRAYING FOR ME AND MY FAMILY!
Fly by the Seat of Your Pants
1 Samuel 17:45 David said to the Philistine “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.
Dear Friend:
What does “fly by the seat of your pants really mean?”
It actually had to do with the movement of the seat of your pants, In early aviation days, there weren't too many instruments. The pilots literally had to "feel" the movement of the aircraft-- They did that by feeling the movement of their butt! Thus the definition: Decide a course of action as you go along, using your own initiative and perceptions rather than a pre-determined plan or mechanical aids.
David, while tending his father’s sheep, learned to kill lions and bear s to protect the sheep. He even said “the Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” God built this initiative and perception in David to become a warrior. He no longer needed to trust in sword and spear to fight the enemy. It is so cool that he knew that it was “God ,“ who gave him the power to fight!
I started out thinking this was going to be a message of God warning us to stop “flying by the seat of our pants.” He is saying if you are “flying by the seat of your pants” as many of the previous warriors did and failed, you too will fail. That means the results will look like yelling, screaming, fighting with the goal to have a quick fix and the result is frustration, brokenness, anger and hurt relationships. To have success in our decisions of how to handle things decide today like David did to build your inner instinct on God’s word and examples. Then you can truly fly by the seat of your pants. Get it!
Let’s pray: Father in heaven thank you for your word and the example of your mighty warriors who had victory because of you. Help me to stay true to you and learn and live like David. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Flying by the seat of God’s word,
Elaine
Dear Friend:
What does “fly by the seat of your pants really mean?”
It actually had to do with the movement of the seat of your pants, In early aviation days, there weren't too many instruments. The pilots literally had to "feel" the movement of the aircraft-- They did that by feeling the movement of their butt! Thus the definition: Decide a course of action as you go along, using your own initiative and perceptions rather than a pre-determined plan or mechanical aids.
David, while tending his father’s sheep, learned to kill lions and bear s to protect the sheep. He even said “the Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” God built this initiative and perception in David to become a warrior. He no longer needed to trust in sword and spear to fight the enemy. It is so cool that he knew that it was “God ,“ who gave him the power to fight!
I started out thinking this was going to be a message of God warning us to stop “flying by the seat of our pants.” He is saying if you are “flying by the seat of your pants” as many of the previous warriors did and failed, you too will fail. That means the results will look like yelling, screaming, fighting with the goal to have a quick fix and the result is frustration, brokenness, anger and hurt relationships. To have success in our decisions of how to handle things decide today like David did to build your inner instinct on God’s word and examples. Then you can truly fly by the seat of your pants. Get it!
Let’s pray: Father in heaven thank you for your word and the example of your mighty warriors who had victory because of you. Help me to stay true to you and learn and live like David. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Flying by the seat of God’s word,
Elaine
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Did U Read the Instructions?
Dear Friend:
Psalm 34:11-14 come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord. Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies. Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.
Have you bought things that you have to put together by reading the instructions? When you purchase a game and you have to read the instructions, isn’t it hard but helpful? I have seen people in my life putting things together according to the instructions and in the end have extra parts? LOL! Some of the parts maybe extras or the person may have missed a step. The instructions are numbered and it is to your advantage to read them all!
How does God expect us to do all of the above?
READ THE MANUAL-MY B.I.B.L.E.=BASIC INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE LEAVING EARTH. –GOD-
Let’s pray: Lord help me to listen, learn, reverently fear you, desire good, keep my tongue from evil, do good, seek peace and purse it! Thank you for the desire to read your word. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Reading thru the bible,
Elaine
Psalm 34:11-14 come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord. Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies. Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.
Have you bought things that you have to put together by reading the instructions? When you purchase a game and you have to read the instructions, isn’t it hard but helpful? I have seen people in my life putting things together according to the instructions and in the end have extra parts? LOL! Some of the parts maybe extras or the person may have missed a step. The instructions are numbered and it is to your advantage to read them all!
How does God expect us to do all of the above?
READ THE MANUAL-MY B.I.B.L.E.=BASIC INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE LEAVING EARTH. –GOD-
Let’s pray: Lord help me to listen, learn, reverently fear you, desire good, keep my tongue from evil, do good, seek peace and purse it! Thank you for the desire to read your word. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Reading thru the bible,
Elaine
Wisdom Teeth
Dear Friend:
Ever wonder why we have wisdom teeth and why they are called that?
They are generally thought to be called "wisdom teeth" because they appear so late—much later than the other teeth, at an age where people are supposedly wiser than as a child, when the other teeth erupt.
Alternatively it may be that the term derives from a mistranslation of the corresponding term in Dutch in which language they are called 'verstandskiezen', literally 'far-standing-molars' referring to the fact that they are located at the back of the mouth. In Dutch such compound words are contracted (written without the spaces) leaving the first part of the word as 'verstand' which can correctly be translated as 'wisdom' in English.
So it is either because of the age theory or the Dutch people screwed up the spelling. I have to laugh because my Pastor is Dutch and he quite often makes fun of his heritage in a funny way.
Proverbs 9:10 10 "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom,
and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
James 1:5 5If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
James 3:17 17But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.
A WISE LIST
1. Fear the Lord
2. Knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
3. Pray for wisdom and God promises to give it generously.
WISE RESULTS
1. Pure.
2. Peace-loving.
3. Considerate.
4. Submissive.
5. Full of mercy.
6. Good Fruit.
7. Impartial.
8. Sincere.
WISE HEART CHECK LIST:
James 3:14-15 14But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil.
A 13 year old girl responded this way when asked, “Why do you need the fear of the Lord for wisdom?” Her response was, “With God I look for the things he would want me to do, not what I would want to do.”
Now that is wisdom!
Let’s pray: Lord I love and fear you. I need your wisdom. Give me a Wise Heart check-up. Thank you for giving me wisdom so generously. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Asking,
Elaine
Ever wonder why we have wisdom teeth and why they are called that?
They are generally thought to be called "wisdom teeth" because they appear so late—much later than the other teeth, at an age where people are supposedly wiser than as a child, when the other teeth erupt.
Alternatively it may be that the term derives from a mistranslation of the corresponding term in Dutch in which language they are called 'verstandskiezen', literally 'far-standing-molars' referring to the fact that they are located at the back of the mouth. In Dutch such compound words are contracted (written without the spaces) leaving the first part of the word as 'verstand' which can correctly be translated as 'wisdom' in English.
So it is either because of the age theory or the Dutch people screwed up the spelling. I have to laugh because my Pastor is Dutch and he quite often makes fun of his heritage in a funny way.
Proverbs 9:10 10 "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom,
and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
James 1:5 5If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
James 3:17 17But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.
A WISE LIST
1. Fear the Lord
2. Knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
3. Pray for wisdom and God promises to give it generously.
WISE RESULTS
1. Pure.
2. Peace-loving.
3. Considerate.
4. Submissive.
5. Full of mercy.
6. Good Fruit.
7. Impartial.
8. Sincere.
WISE HEART CHECK LIST:
James 3:14-15 14But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil.
A 13 year old girl responded this way when asked, “Why do you need the fear of the Lord for wisdom?” Her response was, “With God I look for the things he would want me to do, not what I would want to do.”
Now that is wisdom!
Let’s pray: Lord I love and fear you. I need your wisdom. Give me a Wise Heart check-up. Thank you for giving me wisdom so generously. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Asking,
Elaine
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Junk Food
2 Timothy 4:5 3-5You're going to find that there will be times when people will have no stomach for solid teaching, but will fill up on spiritual junk food—catchy opinions that tickle their fancy. They'll turn their backs on truth and chase mirages. But you—keep your eye on what you're doing; accept the hard times along with the good; keep the Message alive; do a thorough job as God's servant.
Dear Friend:
Do watch what you eat? Do ever notice when you are stressed, that you don’t crave vegetables? But instead, you crave “Junk Food.” Sometimes we want things to be quick and easy so we go for the easy. If the majority is thinking one way, isn’t easier just to accept and go along with what they say?
It really takes time spent with God to filter all the days input. It is almost like going through your e-mails daily. You delete the junk and save the important stuff. It takes self-discipline to accept the truth and deny the junk.
So today we must decide to keep our eyes on what we are doing; accept the good with bad, but keep our minds alive with the truth. Stay true to the one who created you and loves you, The Lord Jesus Christ. No if s and or buts. Stick with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit that is one in three. If God wanted to be called anything else he would have put that in the Bible.
Let’s pray: Father in heaven, help me to hunger for solid teaching and not be filled with junk. I want to keep my eyes on what you’re doing and as a servant keep your message alive. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Trying to stay junk free,
Elaine
Dear Friend:
Do watch what you eat? Do ever notice when you are stressed, that you don’t crave vegetables? But instead, you crave “Junk Food.” Sometimes we want things to be quick and easy so we go for the easy. If the majority is thinking one way, isn’t easier just to accept and go along with what they say?
It really takes time spent with God to filter all the days input. It is almost like going through your e-mails daily. You delete the junk and save the important stuff. It takes self-discipline to accept the truth and deny the junk.
So today we must decide to keep our eyes on what we are doing; accept the good with bad, but keep our minds alive with the truth. Stay true to the one who created you and loves you, The Lord Jesus Christ. No if s and or buts. Stick with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit that is one in three. If God wanted to be called anything else he would have put that in the Bible.
Let’s pray: Father in heaven, help me to hunger for solid teaching and not be filled with junk. I want to keep my eyes on what you’re doing and as a servant keep your message alive. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Trying to stay junk free,
Elaine
Friday, May 29, 2009
Charlotte's Web
Dear Friend:
Do you remember the words Charlotte, the spider, wrote in her web in the movie Charlotte’s Web? I googled it for you, she wrote: some pig, terrific, radiant, humble. We usually don’t think of a pig as being “Radiant.” The story of Charlotte’s Web was and still is a classic story, where our human spirit can’t help but cheer on the underdog, which is the pig Wilbur. This story includes the heroine, Charlotte, the spider, who sacrifices her life to save Wilbur. Charlotte spun webs into words and that ended up making Wilbur famous. Charlotte’s plan worked, people from all over went to see the famous pig and he lived happily ever after.
This story is similar to what could be each of our stories. We like Wilbur were going to death, but Charlotte, just like Jesus saved us from death. We become radiant like Jesus when we accept Christ into our life. I selected verses for you to read that tells of how our God’s “radiance” exceeds anything.
Psalm 148:14 14 Let them praise the name of GOD—
it's the only Name worth praising.
His radiance exceeds anything in earth and sky;
he's built a monument—his very own people!
Praise from all who love GOD!
Israel's children, intimate friends of GOD.
Hallelujah!
Psalm 27:1 The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?
God is light, what do we have to fear? Aren’t you glad we never refer to our God as darkness? When I think of being in the dark, I think how scary that is and how I fall and stumble. As long as our hero is with us we need not fear anything.
Revelation 21:22-27 22I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. 23The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. 24The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it. 25On no day will its gates ever be shut, for there will be no night there. 26The glory and honor of the nations will be brought into it. 27Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life.
The verses in Revelation talk of Jesus return on earth and heaven being set up. We will not need any artificial light source. Why? Read it and just wonder what He will look like. This is the hope we have to look for. I think as my mind wonders today to anything negative I will replace my thoughts with God’s “radiance” that exceeds anything. Nothing impure will ever enter the new earth.
Let’s pray: Father you are my light and my salvation, help me not to fear anything. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Shining in the light of His glory,
Elaine
Do you remember the words Charlotte, the spider, wrote in her web in the movie Charlotte’s Web? I googled it for you, she wrote: some pig, terrific, radiant, humble. We usually don’t think of a pig as being “Radiant.” The story of Charlotte’s Web was and still is a classic story, where our human spirit can’t help but cheer on the underdog, which is the pig Wilbur. This story includes the heroine, Charlotte, the spider, who sacrifices her life to save Wilbur. Charlotte spun webs into words and that ended up making Wilbur famous. Charlotte’s plan worked, people from all over went to see the famous pig and he lived happily ever after.
This story is similar to what could be each of our stories. We like Wilbur were going to death, but Charlotte, just like Jesus saved us from death. We become radiant like Jesus when we accept Christ into our life. I selected verses for you to read that tells of how our God’s “radiance” exceeds anything.
Psalm 148:14 14 Let them praise the name of GOD—
it's the only Name worth praising.
His radiance exceeds anything in earth and sky;
he's built a monument—his very own people!
Praise from all who love GOD!
Israel's children, intimate friends of GOD.
Hallelujah!
Psalm 27:1 The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?
God is light, what do we have to fear? Aren’t you glad we never refer to our God as darkness? When I think of being in the dark, I think how scary that is and how I fall and stumble. As long as our hero is with us we need not fear anything.
Revelation 21:22-27 22I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. 23The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. 24The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it. 25On no day will its gates ever be shut, for there will be no night there. 26The glory and honor of the nations will be brought into it. 27Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life.
The verses in Revelation talk of Jesus return on earth and heaven being set up. We will not need any artificial light source. Why? Read it and just wonder what He will look like. This is the hope we have to look for. I think as my mind wonders today to anything negative I will replace my thoughts with God’s “radiance” that exceeds anything. Nothing impure will ever enter the new earth.
Let’s pray: Father you are my light and my salvation, help me not to fear anything. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Shining in the light of His glory,
Elaine
Wrestle or Rest?
WE CRY “HOLY, HOLY, HOLY LORD
GOD OF POWER AND MIGHT
HEAVEN AND EARTH ARE FULL OF YOUR GLORY
HOSANNA IN THE HIGHTEST!”
Dear Friend:
This is the sacred song playing in my head lately. As I am sleeping the words come to my mind and as I am awakened in the morning. This heart cry replaces all the daily thoughts that race through my mind.
Proverbs 4:25
Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you.
The whole chapter of Proverbs 4 is a good reminder of how important it is to a child of God to walk by His word.
The heart cry above is very close to the verse in Revelation that is quoted by John. John’s vision of heaven and what He saw the elders and all living creatures crying out is:
Revelation 4:8 Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come.
Sometimes you hear Christians say “I hope He is returning soon.” I guess my mind is already preparing for the one and only Jesus to come back. If it helps me, I am praying it helps you.
Pray: HOLY, HOLY LORD GOD OF POWER AND MIGHT HEAVEN AND EARTH ARE FULL OF YOUR GLORY HOSANNA IN THE HIGHTEST! In Jesus name. Amen.
Why wrestle with your thoughts? When God can give you rest. Wrestle or Rest?
Resting,
Elaine
GOD OF POWER AND MIGHT
HEAVEN AND EARTH ARE FULL OF YOUR GLORY
HOSANNA IN THE HIGHTEST!”
Dear Friend:
This is the sacred song playing in my head lately. As I am sleeping the words come to my mind and as I am awakened in the morning. This heart cry replaces all the daily thoughts that race through my mind.
Proverbs 4:25
Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you.
The whole chapter of Proverbs 4 is a good reminder of how important it is to a child of God to walk by His word.
The heart cry above is very close to the verse in Revelation that is quoted by John. John’s vision of heaven and what He saw the elders and all living creatures crying out is:
Revelation 4:8 Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come.
Sometimes you hear Christians say “I hope He is returning soon.” I guess my mind is already preparing for the one and only Jesus to come back. If it helps me, I am praying it helps you.
Pray: HOLY, HOLY LORD GOD OF POWER AND MIGHT HEAVEN AND EARTH ARE FULL OF YOUR GLORY HOSANNA IN THE HIGHTEST! In Jesus name. Amen.
Why wrestle with your thoughts? When God can give you rest. Wrestle or Rest?
Resting,
Elaine
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Mother's Day?
Dear Friend:
I was thinking today about the tradition of Mother’s Day.
So I did what everyone does with a question and googled “When did Mother’s Day begin?” I got this website http://www.chiff.com/a/mothers-day-history.htm
It was very interesting to read that in 1908 mothers were honored in church services. As you read through the article you will find that it was never intended to be a hallmark holiday. In 1914 President Woodrow Wilson declared that Mother’s Day should be celebrated as a national holiday on the second Sunday in May.
God is speaking to each of us today to honor our Mother’s. Tell your mom you love her! Even if you are having a hard time with your mom, maybe you can think of a good time and write her a short note. Better late than never! If you recently have lost your mom, try and just reflect on some good moment and then continue the day with celebrating other love relationships in your life.
ENJOY LONG LIFE ON THE EARTH. –GOD-
Pray with me: Thank you Jesus for loving me. That love is so special. Help me to love others. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
A day of grace,
Elaine
I was thinking today about the tradition of Mother’s Day.
So I did what everyone does with a question and googled “When did Mother’s Day begin?” I got this website http://www.chiff.com/a/mothers-day-history.htm
It was very interesting to read that in 1908 mothers were honored in church services. As you read through the article you will find that it was never intended to be a hallmark holiday. In 1914 President Woodrow Wilson declared that Mother’s Day should be celebrated as a national holiday on the second Sunday in May.
God is speaking to each of us today to honor our Mother’s. Tell your mom you love her! Even if you are having a hard time with your mom, maybe you can think of a good time and write her a short note. Better late than never! If you recently have lost your mom, try and just reflect on some good moment and then continue the day with celebrating other love relationships in your life.
ENJOY LONG LIFE ON THE EARTH. –GOD-
Pray with me: Thank you Jesus for loving me. That love is so special. Help me to love others. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
A day of grace,
Elaine
Organic
John 15:8 (The Message)
5-8"I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you're joined with me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant. Separated, you can't produce a thing. Anyone who separates from me is deadwood, gathered up and thrown on the bonfire. But if you make yourselves at home with me and my words are at home in you, you can be sure that whatever you ask will be listened to and acted upon. This is how my Father shows who he is—when you produce grapes, when you mature as my disciples.
Dear Friend:
I came across the verse from above and the word organic struck me. Organic food: Raised or conducted without the use of drugs, hormones, or synthetic chemicals. I really enjoy when we order a cow from a butcher and the meat is organic. Wow! What a difference in taste and how you feel after you eat it.
God is calling us to an “organic” relationship with Him. The definition of organic is: Simple, healthful, and close to nature: an organic lifestyle. Trying to live more organic takes time. But the fruit from it is much better for all of our relationships and our health.
So in these days trying to go “Green,” we must add go “Organic.” God wants to have this tender time with us daily. If we don’t, we produce the opposite of organic. We produce dead wood that gets burned up easily.
Let’s pray: Father in heaven when I am organic with you I know it gives me a harvest that is abundant. On my own I can’t produce a thing. Help me Lord daily to spend time with you. Thanks God for being patient with me. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Organic,
Elaine
5-8"I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you're joined with me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant. Separated, you can't produce a thing. Anyone who separates from me is deadwood, gathered up and thrown on the bonfire. But if you make yourselves at home with me and my words are at home in you, you can be sure that whatever you ask will be listened to and acted upon. This is how my Father shows who he is—when you produce grapes, when you mature as my disciples.
Dear Friend:
I came across the verse from above and the word organic struck me. Organic food: Raised or conducted without the use of drugs, hormones, or synthetic chemicals. I really enjoy when we order a cow from a butcher and the meat is organic. Wow! What a difference in taste and how you feel after you eat it.
God is calling us to an “organic” relationship with Him. The definition of organic is: Simple, healthful, and close to nature: an organic lifestyle. Trying to live more organic takes time. But the fruit from it is much better for all of our relationships and our health.
So in these days trying to go “Green,” we must add go “Organic.” God wants to have this tender time with us daily. If we don’t, we produce the opposite of organic. We produce dead wood that gets burned up easily.
Let’s pray: Father in heaven when I am organic with you I know it gives me a harvest that is abundant. On my own I can’t produce a thing. Help me Lord daily to spend time with you. Thanks God for being patient with me. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Organic,
Elaine
Thursday, May 7, 2009
The Work-Out High
Dear Friend:
Hey going to the gym today! I’ll be sure to have my membership card , proper work –out clothes,
focused attitude and the reason why I even go, because sometimes it just is not fun or something I look forward to. Here is my list of reasons why I go to the health club:
1. My mind-gets those endorphins going. The work-out high. (some call it the “ Runner’S High)
2. My weight-keep my weight down.
3. Look good/feel good.
Can you relate?
On the flip side! This morning I don’t want to even go out of the house without taking one more thing with me. My personal trainer and for me that is the Lord Jesus Christ. Why would I want to accomplish anything in my day without Him being a part of it? He is why I even breathe at times. On some days I grab just a protein bar (need that boost), but most importantly if time is a constraint I grab a verse and go. Here is mine for today.
1 Corinthians 2:5
so that your faith might not rest on men's wisdom, but on God's power.
I can’t rely on the work out and protein bar to be the source that will give me the mental power to endure life. This simple reminder helps me to remember to pray for faith so the power of God will rest on me to get through the day.
Pray with me: Father in heaven forgive me for leaving you home and not taking you with me at times. Thanks for your word that gives me a gentle boost for the day. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Keeping fit,
Elaine
Hey going to the gym today! I’ll be sure to have my membership card , proper work –out clothes,
focused attitude and the reason why I even go, because sometimes it just is not fun or something I look forward to. Here is my list of reasons why I go to the health club:
1. My mind-gets those endorphins going. The work-out high. (some call it the “ Runner’S High)
2. My weight-keep my weight down.
3. Look good/feel good.
Can you relate?
On the flip side! This morning I don’t want to even go out of the house without taking one more thing with me. My personal trainer and for me that is the Lord Jesus Christ. Why would I want to accomplish anything in my day without Him being a part of it? He is why I even breathe at times. On some days I grab just a protein bar (need that boost), but most importantly if time is a constraint I grab a verse and go. Here is mine for today.
1 Corinthians 2:5
so that your faith might not rest on men's wisdom, but on God's power.
I can’t rely on the work out and protein bar to be the source that will give me the mental power to endure life. This simple reminder helps me to remember to pray for faith so the power of God will rest on me to get through the day.
Pray with me: Father in heaven forgive me for leaving you home and not taking you with me at times. Thanks for your word that gives me a gentle boost for the day. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Keeping fit,
Elaine
Monday, May 4, 2009
Make Up Your Mind
ISIAAH 26:2-3 Throw wide the gates
so good and true people can enter.
People with their minds set on you,
you keep completely whole,
Steady on their feet,
because they keep at it and don't quit.
Dear Friend:
I have heard the struggle of God’s people. Struggle with all kinds of addictions (alcohol, drugs, shopping, busyness, lack of self-control, lack of self-discipline) I got two prayer requests today of young adults struggling with drug addictions.
When you think of God , what do you think? Does your heart beat faster? Do you picture an unapproachable God on a throne or do you picture God on the throne waving you toward him? In order to understand the verse above we must think that the door to the heavens is open and we will not offend our God with a visit, but we will bring joy to Him with visits. MAKE UP YOUR MIND! Are you going to visit Him daily or not? How can you read the words above and not be drawn to this promise.
PEOPLE WITH THEIR MINDS SET ON YOU, YOU KEEP COMPLETELY WHOLE, STEADY ON THEIR FEET.
I don’t think there is a person alive who does not want to be completely whole and steady on their feet.
Simply put, get to know the one who created you and cares about YOU! DON’T QUIT!
You are too busy?
You lack a plan or vision?
You lack self-discipline or self-control?
Ask for help.
It is the matter of the heart and mind. Will you pray with me?
Father in Heaven I thank you that your arms are wide open to me. Thank you for opening them all the time and never waiting for me to be perfect. Take this spirit of perfection away and replace it with your grace. Help me to overcome day by day. Forgive me for too much( busyness, lack of self-control, lack of self-discipline). In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Making up my mind,
Elaine
so good and true people can enter.
People with their minds set on you,
you keep completely whole,
Steady on their feet,
because they keep at it and don't quit.
Dear Friend:
I have heard the struggle of God’s people. Struggle with all kinds of addictions (alcohol, drugs, shopping, busyness, lack of self-control, lack of self-discipline) I got two prayer requests today of young adults struggling with drug addictions.
When you think of God , what do you think? Does your heart beat faster? Do you picture an unapproachable God on a throne or do you picture God on the throne waving you toward him? In order to understand the verse above we must think that the door to the heavens is open and we will not offend our God with a visit, but we will bring joy to Him with visits. MAKE UP YOUR MIND! Are you going to visit Him daily or not? How can you read the words above and not be drawn to this promise.
PEOPLE WITH THEIR MINDS SET ON YOU, YOU KEEP COMPLETELY WHOLE, STEADY ON THEIR FEET.
I don’t think there is a person alive who does not want to be completely whole and steady on their feet.
Simply put, get to know the one who created you and cares about YOU! DON’T QUIT!
You are too busy?
You lack a plan or vision?
You lack self-discipline or self-control?
Ask for help.
It is the matter of the heart and mind. Will you pray with me?
Father in Heaven I thank you that your arms are wide open to me. Thank you for opening them all the time and never waiting for me to be perfect. Take this spirit of perfection away and replace it with your grace. Help me to overcome day by day. Forgive me for too much( busyness, lack of self-control, lack of self-discipline). In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Making up my mind,
Elaine
Monday, April 20, 2009
PP or P squared
1. Isaiah 26:3 You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.
2. Philippians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Dear Friend:
The title of this message is odd, don’t you think? I was trying to make a math sign of P squared, but on this computer I do not know how to do that. I was teaching on these verses this week. I said “we should go to church and tell people be in “PP.” LOL! How funny would that be? Quickly we would explain that “PP” stands for perfect peace. If someone asks “well how do we do that in these crazy days?” Answer.
Be anchored (steadfast) and trusting in God.
Do not be anxious. (That does not include an opening for sometimes you can be anxious)
If you find yourself anxious follow the tools the Lord gives which are:
Prayer, petition WITH thanksgiving present your requests to God.
God says to you today “you want PERFECT PEACE?” Hang on to me, talk to me, thank me and I will give you perfect peace that you can’t understand and the bonus is that I will GUARD YOUR HEART AND MIND.
Please try and be still right now and wrap your mind around such a great promise that the Lord just spoke to you! He wants to do that for you.
Many times I conclude my prayer, petition and thankfulness with a prayer like this:
Father in heaven you are perfect, everlasting, almighty, caring and enormous. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Did you catch that prayer? P.E.A.C.E.
Try making him L.O.V.E.
L ORD
O MNISCIENT
V ICTORIOUS
E XCELLENT
Just trying to help you keep your in PP or P squared,
Elaine
2. Philippians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Dear Friend:
The title of this message is odd, don’t you think? I was trying to make a math sign of P squared, but on this computer I do not know how to do that. I was teaching on these verses this week. I said “we should go to church and tell people be in “PP.” LOL! How funny would that be? Quickly we would explain that “PP” stands for perfect peace. If someone asks “well how do we do that in these crazy days?” Answer.
Be anchored (steadfast) and trusting in God.
Do not be anxious. (That does not include an opening for sometimes you can be anxious)
If you find yourself anxious follow the tools the Lord gives which are:
Prayer, petition WITH thanksgiving present your requests to God.
God says to you today “you want PERFECT PEACE?” Hang on to me, talk to me, thank me and I will give you perfect peace that you can’t understand and the bonus is that I will GUARD YOUR HEART AND MIND.
Please try and be still right now and wrap your mind around such a great promise that the Lord just spoke to you! He wants to do that for you.
Many times I conclude my prayer, petition and thankfulness with a prayer like this:
Father in heaven you are perfect, everlasting, almighty, caring and enormous. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Did you catch that prayer? P.E.A.C.E.
Try making him L.O.V.E.
L ORD
O MNISCIENT
V ICTORIOUS
E XCELLENT
Just trying to help you keep your in PP or P squared,
Elaine
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Go Bold
Romans 8:14-15 14because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. 15For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship.] And by him we cry, "Abba,] Father."
2 Timothy 1:77For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline
Dear Friend:
There are so many coffees to choose from these days. I personally like the coffee that is labeled “Bold” and it is fresh and new. I love the strong taste and scent. Bold in the Webster dictionary means: daring, courageous, brave, and fearless. I guess coffee can do dual things like help us be lively and “Go bold.”
I prayed this morning and asked the Holy Spirit to be present with me in a place where I was particularly not thrilled to be. In the room with me was a girl who was very nice and pretty. As I was praying I felt in my Spirit the Lord said “tell her she is pretty and that I created her and that I want her to have a personal deeper relationship with her.” “No way,” I thought. She will think I’m nuts. But in my Spirit I felt she will understand, because I am going to confirm what she has already been thinking. So these verses came to me “I am a child of God led by the Spirit and I can be “Bold.” So out with the words I blurted! You know what? She was not surprised and she thanked me and even said “I want to give you a hug.” We had a very pleasant conversation and then I went on my way.
God used this experience not only for the girl to know that our God is personal, alive, living and active, but he also showed me the same thing. It was a dual thing God did working to help us feel alive and “Go Bold.” How cool is that!
I guess my message to you today is “Go Bold.” Listen and trust the Spirit as he leads you.
Let’s pray: Lord thank you for always being there for me. Thank you that I am a child of yours. Help me to remember to pray and be led by your Spirit and “Go Bold.”
Go Bold,
Elaine
2 Timothy 1:77For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline
Dear Friend:
There are so many coffees to choose from these days. I personally like the coffee that is labeled “Bold” and it is fresh and new. I love the strong taste and scent. Bold in the Webster dictionary means: daring, courageous, brave, and fearless. I guess coffee can do dual things like help us be lively and “Go bold.”
I prayed this morning and asked the Holy Spirit to be present with me in a place where I was particularly not thrilled to be. In the room with me was a girl who was very nice and pretty. As I was praying I felt in my Spirit the Lord said “tell her she is pretty and that I created her and that I want her to have a personal deeper relationship with her.” “No way,” I thought. She will think I’m nuts. But in my Spirit I felt she will understand, because I am going to confirm what she has already been thinking. So these verses came to me “I am a child of God led by the Spirit and I can be “Bold.” So out with the words I blurted! You know what? She was not surprised and she thanked me and even said “I want to give you a hug.” We had a very pleasant conversation and then I went on my way.
God used this experience not only for the girl to know that our God is personal, alive, living and active, but he also showed me the same thing. It was a dual thing God did working to help us feel alive and “Go Bold.” How cool is that!
I guess my message to you today is “Go Bold.” Listen and trust the Spirit as he leads you.
Let’s pray: Lord thank you for always being there for me. Thank you that I am a child of yours. Help me to remember to pray and be led by your Spirit and “Go Bold.”
Go Bold,
Elaine
Thursday, April 9, 2009
20 Minute Ride
1 Peter 3:15 15But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,
Dear Friend:
While paying at the drive-thru of Starbucks, I encountered the lady who took my order. We talked about the usual stuff, the weather. She had a glow about her. I told her that I am going to the nursing home. She has wanted to help at a nursing home. She asked what I do there and I said that I volunteer. “Doing what”, she asked? I answered “doing personal visits and I started bible club Called Sonshine Bible Club.” She has always wanted to help out at the nursing home. The conversation leads to her telling me she has been visiting churches. I ended up going in and spending 2 hours with her.
I find out that she had what I like to call a “light bulb moment.” Let me explain. She is a part time limo driver and back in August she had a most significant “20 minute ride” with a lady taking her to Midway Airport. She opened up and told this lady a little bit about her hardship lately. The ladies question then advice was, “you know what you are lacking? Being grounded.” The lady proceeds in twenty minutes to explain what “being grounded” means to her.
Matthew 7:25
The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.
You know what the rock is? And I don’t mean the famous wrestler. I mean the most famous person ever in the history of the world “The Lord Jesus Christ.”
The limo driver said at this point she felt as if her heart was being ripped open. Before the lady left she said “read the bible.” The limo driver cried and cried and hugged the lady good-bye. They have been in contact on the phone and she shares the daily word with her.
Since August the Starbuck lady has someone in her life that out of the blue sent her the bible called “The Message.” Another Pastor she drove from the airport to a conference said I want to send you something that I think will help you. So just recently she got in the mail from him “The Purpose Driven Life.” During these past months she has observed some of her friends getting into bible churches and reading the word and seeing their lives being changed. I can’t write in this space all of the encounters she has had with God recently, but I can say she has opened her heart to Jesus and wants to be changed. She admits that there is fear there, but she wants to believe. Now she meets me and I asked her do you believe in your heart that Jesus died, rose again and conquered death for the your sins? I explained how Jesus wants to have a personal relationship with you. Her response was “I do believe that.” She said she knows it has moved from her head to her heart in the past months. I stuck out my hand and said “then you are a child of God welcome to the family of God, you are my sister in Christ.” I wrote the date on a piece of paper and told her to remember that she is a Child of God. I asked her if she would respond to those that ask her if she is a Christian “Yes.” Tell them “I know I am a Christian because Jesus died, rose again, conquered death for my sins and for that act of love that he did, I am going to heaven someday and going to be with Jesus.” I said if it truly is in your heart don’t let anyone tell you are not a Christian. We finished our talk with a hug and we hope to study the bible together in the future.
Take a moment to pray:
Father in heaven, thank you for what you did on the cross for me. I want to always be ready to give an answer for you, teach me lead me in your ways. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
To God be the Glory,
Elaine
Person who was in the right place at the right time.
Dear Friend:
While paying at the drive-thru of Starbucks, I encountered the lady who took my order. We talked about the usual stuff, the weather. She had a glow about her. I told her that I am going to the nursing home. She has wanted to help at a nursing home. She asked what I do there and I said that I volunteer. “Doing what”, she asked? I answered “doing personal visits and I started bible club Called Sonshine Bible Club.” She has always wanted to help out at the nursing home. The conversation leads to her telling me she has been visiting churches. I ended up going in and spending 2 hours with her.
I find out that she had what I like to call a “light bulb moment.” Let me explain. She is a part time limo driver and back in August she had a most significant “20 minute ride” with a lady taking her to Midway Airport. She opened up and told this lady a little bit about her hardship lately. The ladies question then advice was, “you know what you are lacking? Being grounded.” The lady proceeds in twenty minutes to explain what “being grounded” means to her.
Matthew 7:25
The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.
You know what the rock is? And I don’t mean the famous wrestler. I mean the most famous person ever in the history of the world “The Lord Jesus Christ.”
The limo driver said at this point she felt as if her heart was being ripped open. Before the lady left she said “read the bible.” The limo driver cried and cried and hugged the lady good-bye. They have been in contact on the phone and she shares the daily word with her.
Since August the Starbuck lady has someone in her life that out of the blue sent her the bible called “The Message.” Another Pastor she drove from the airport to a conference said I want to send you something that I think will help you. So just recently she got in the mail from him “The Purpose Driven Life.” During these past months she has observed some of her friends getting into bible churches and reading the word and seeing their lives being changed. I can’t write in this space all of the encounters she has had with God recently, but I can say she has opened her heart to Jesus and wants to be changed. She admits that there is fear there, but she wants to believe. Now she meets me and I asked her do you believe in your heart that Jesus died, rose again and conquered death for the your sins? I explained how Jesus wants to have a personal relationship with you. Her response was “I do believe that.” She said she knows it has moved from her head to her heart in the past months. I stuck out my hand and said “then you are a child of God welcome to the family of God, you are my sister in Christ.” I wrote the date on a piece of paper and told her to remember that she is a Child of God. I asked her if she would respond to those that ask her if she is a Christian “Yes.” Tell them “I know I am a Christian because Jesus died, rose again, conquered death for my sins and for that act of love that he did, I am going to heaven someday and going to be with Jesus.” I said if it truly is in your heart don’t let anyone tell you are not a Christian. We finished our talk with a hug and we hope to study the bible together in the future.
Take a moment to pray:
Father in heaven, thank you for what you did on the cross for me. I want to always be ready to give an answer for you, teach me lead me in your ways. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
To God be the Glory,
Elaine
Person who was in the right place at the right time.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
The Spa
Joshua 21:45
Not one of all the LORD's good promises to the house of Israel failed; every one was fulfilled
Joshua 21:44
The LORD gave them rest on every side, just as he had sworn to their forefathers. Not one of their enemies withstood them; the LORD handed all their enemies over to them.
Joshua 22:4
Now that the LORD your God has given your brothers rest as he promised, return to your homes in the land that Moses the servant of the LORD gave you on the other side of the Jordan.
Dear Friend:
Going to “The Spa” for all sorts of different massages is the thing to do today to relieve our stress. Believe me I know that they can help. By word of mouth we find the right spa and person to do the massage.
The Israelites went through so much from the years that they were enslaved in Egypt till their freedom and rest in the promiseland. Moses, Aaron and Joshua listened to the Lord and lead them to their spa. Now I know it was not like our spas today. They were led to their property and where they would take up their rest. Joshua when finally resting in the promiseland took the time to reflect on the goodness of God and His faithfulness. We have the word of the Lord trying to reassure us that we can rest. From Joshua, Jesus and on through today we find many faithful servants who found their rest in the Lord.
Let’s pray: Faithful Father help me today to find rest in you. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Resting at the spa called “Jesus”,
Elaine
Not one of all the LORD's good promises to the house of Israel failed; every one was fulfilled
Joshua 21:44
The LORD gave them rest on every side, just as he had sworn to their forefathers. Not one of their enemies withstood them; the LORD handed all their enemies over to them.
Joshua 22:4
Now that the LORD your God has given your brothers rest as he promised, return to your homes in the land that Moses the servant of the LORD gave you on the other side of the Jordan.
Dear Friend:
Going to “The Spa” for all sorts of different massages is the thing to do today to relieve our stress. Believe me I know that they can help. By word of mouth we find the right spa and person to do the massage.
The Israelites went through so much from the years that they were enslaved in Egypt till their freedom and rest in the promiseland. Moses, Aaron and Joshua listened to the Lord and lead them to their spa. Now I know it was not like our spas today. They were led to their property and where they would take up their rest. Joshua when finally resting in the promiseland took the time to reflect on the goodness of God and His faithfulness. We have the word of the Lord trying to reassure us that we can rest. From Joshua, Jesus and on through today we find many faithful servants who found their rest in the Lord.
Let’s pray: Faithful Father help me today to find rest in you. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Resting at the spa called “Jesus”,
Elaine
Monday, March 16, 2009
Sand Paper
Proverbs 27:17
As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.
Dear Friend:
Do you have a person in your life that rubs you like sand paper rubs on a wall? Sand paper makes a surface smooth.
There are two ways of looking at sharpening. There are those Christian friends who speak to you in love and give you constructive criticism. When I receive constructive criticism it usually never offends me. My response to their comment goes something like this “oh ,okay I need to change this in me.” Sometimes God puts a teacher, spouse, co-worker, parent in our lives and they are driving you crazy and it’s hard to respond to them in a nice way. Can you think of that person or persons?
Today I want to suggest to you that maybe, just maybe, God put that person in your life to “Sharpen” you. God always has us in the school of “Pruning, Refining, and Sanctifying.” Why? So we can become more like Jesus.
Let’s pray:
Father in Heaven help me to see who have you put in my life that is helping to sharpen me and make me more like you? Help me to learn and grow with your plan. Help me to respond righteously to this person. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Being sharpened,
Elaine
As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.
Dear Friend:
Do you have a person in your life that rubs you like sand paper rubs on a wall? Sand paper makes a surface smooth.
There are two ways of looking at sharpening. There are those Christian friends who speak to you in love and give you constructive criticism. When I receive constructive criticism it usually never offends me. My response to their comment goes something like this “oh ,okay I need to change this in me.” Sometimes God puts a teacher, spouse, co-worker, parent in our lives and they are driving you crazy and it’s hard to respond to them in a nice way. Can you think of that person or persons?
Today I want to suggest to you that maybe, just maybe, God put that person in your life to “Sharpen” you. God always has us in the school of “Pruning, Refining, and Sanctifying.” Why? So we can become more like Jesus.
Let’s pray:
Father in Heaven help me to see who have you put in my life that is helping to sharpen me and make me more like you? Help me to learn and grow with your plan. Help me to respond righteously to this person. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Being sharpened,
Elaine
Sunday, March 15, 2009
You Can't Always Get What You Want #2
1Kings 18:21 Elijah went before the people and said, “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him.
Dear Friend:
As I wrote in the last e-mail 3 equations
God +Baal=more
God + psychic=knowing more
God + other spiritual teachings= your own religion
These equations are false. Something plus God does not really get us more. It does not add up. Adding anything to God just makes God jealous. When something is false you get nothing. A great example of this comes from 1Kings 18 the story of Elijah testing the Israelites and their god. Elijah tells the people “get two bulls for us. Let them choose one for themselves, and let them cut it into pieces and put it on the wood but not set fire to it. Then you call on the name of your god, and I will call on the name of the Lord. The god who answers by fire-he is God.” (verse 24) You get the picture, their god is not a god therefore their firewood could not start on fire praying to their god. But of course Elijah even throws water on his wood and then calls on God and his firewood ignites. Because our God is the true one and only God.
Pray with me: Father you are the true one and only God to follow. Help me never to try and add to you anything. Help me to know Father when I am trying to add anything so I can confess that to you. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Praising God,
Elaine
Dear Friend:
As I wrote in the last e-mail 3 equations
God +Baal=more
God + psychic=knowing more
God + other spiritual teachings= your own religion
These equations are false. Something plus God does not really get us more. It does not add up. Adding anything to God just makes God jealous. When something is false you get nothing. A great example of this comes from 1Kings 18 the story of Elijah testing the Israelites and their god. Elijah tells the people “get two bulls for us. Let them choose one for themselves, and let them cut it into pieces and put it on the wood but not set fire to it. Then you call on the name of your god, and I will call on the name of the Lord. The god who answers by fire-he is God.” (verse 24) You get the picture, their god is not a god therefore their firewood could not start on fire praying to their god. But of course Elijah even throws water on his wood and then calls on God and his firewood ignites. Because our God is the true one and only God.
Pray with me: Father you are the true one and only God to follow. Help me never to try and add to you anything. Help me to know Father when I am trying to add anything so I can confess that to you. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Praising God,
Elaine
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
You Can't Always Get What You Want
Deuteronomy 32:16
They made him jealous with their foreign gods and angered him with their detestable idols.
Dear Friend:
Do you remember when someone was jealous of you? Or maybe you remember when you were jealous of what someone else had.
God calls the Israelites His people. He was the one and only God. He continually just asked for their hearts. He would take care of everything else. God at times so desperately wanted the Israelites to get this that he would supply just enough food for one day at a time. The people were satisfied for a while but then wanted more. Does this sound familiar? People will never change. We want more so we add more. How did they handle their needs? They began to take charge and conjure up plans in their minds of how they can get more! I believe God was most disappointed when the Israelites did this
God + Baal = more Baal was the god of weather and fertility.
Do we today try and add to God something so we can get what we want? You know the famous song? “You can’t always get what you want?”
We have a jealous God who created us for a reason and sometimes we just can’t do what he wants us to do. For instance, I know someone that just wanted to know her future and went to a psychic. That would be the equation God + psychic=knowing more
God + money=more stuff
God + other teachings on spirituality(possibly Oprah)=your own religion
Think on that!
Let’s pray: Father in heaven forgive me for not just relying on you and your provision. I want to be faithful to you. Help me today to just have the faith to wait on you. Show me the things that have been making you jealous. In Jesus name I Pray. Amen
Asking God,
Elaine
They made him jealous with their foreign gods and angered him with their detestable idols.
Dear Friend:
Do you remember when someone was jealous of you? Or maybe you remember when you were jealous of what someone else had.
God calls the Israelites His people. He was the one and only God. He continually just asked for their hearts. He would take care of everything else. God at times so desperately wanted the Israelites to get this that he would supply just enough food for one day at a time. The people were satisfied for a while but then wanted more. Does this sound familiar? People will never change. We want more so we add more. How did they handle their needs? They began to take charge and conjure up plans in their minds of how they can get more! I believe God was most disappointed when the Israelites did this
God + Baal = more Baal was the god of weather and fertility.
Do we today try and add to God something so we can get what we want? You know the famous song? “You can’t always get what you want?”
We have a jealous God who created us for a reason and sometimes we just can’t do what he wants us to do. For instance, I know someone that just wanted to know her future and went to a psychic. That would be the equation God + psychic=knowing more
God + money=more stuff
God + other teachings on spirituality(possibly Oprah)=your own religion
Think on that!
Let’s pray: Father in heaven forgive me for not just relying on you and your provision. I want to be faithful to you. Help me today to just have the faith to wait on you. Show me the things that have been making you jealous. In Jesus name I Pray. Amen
Asking God,
Elaine
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Mama Mia
Romans 12:1 (place your life before God) So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life-your sleeping, eating, going-to-work/school, and walking-around life-and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for Him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit in to it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what He wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you. (THE MESSAGE)
Dear Friend:
The song from Mama Mia written by Abba called “TAKE A CHANCE ON ME” is really appropriate words for my message today. Here they are in case you don’t know them.
If you change your mind, I’m the first in line
Honey I’m still free
Take a chance on me
If you need me, let me know, gonna be around
If you’ve got no place to go, if you’re feeling down
If you’re all alone when the pretty birds have flown
Honey I’m still free
Take a chance on me
Gonna do my very best and it ain’t no lie
If you put me to the test, if you let me try
Take a chance on me
(that’s all I ask of you honey)
Take a chance on me
“SERIOUSLY,” the Lord says! The downturn of our economy and the deterioration of family should be enough for us to “TAKE A CHANCE ”on Jesus? Oh Mama Mia, the Lord is crying! This is not a message of FEAR, no this is a message of HOPE. Hope from Jesus! You say what hope? Hopefully God has your attention and He wants you to pray like this.
Heavenly Father you are our hope and salvation. Grant me the power to say NO to ungodliness and Yes to you. Forgive me when I did not stick up for family values and say no. Father bring down the ministering angels to help us break this cycle of fear. I pray that you attack the spirit of fear over all those have the financial ability to make changes for our economy. Father direct the thoughts of those in charge of these decisions and release the wisdom they need to turn this around. In Jesus name. Amen.
No Fear,
Elaine
Dear Friend:
The song from Mama Mia written by Abba called “TAKE A CHANCE ON ME” is really appropriate words for my message today. Here they are in case you don’t know them.
If you change your mind, I’m the first in line
Honey I’m still free
Take a chance on me
If you need me, let me know, gonna be around
If you’ve got no place to go, if you’re feeling down
If you’re all alone when the pretty birds have flown
Honey I’m still free
Take a chance on me
Gonna do my very best and it ain’t no lie
If you put me to the test, if you let me try
Take a chance on me
(that’s all I ask of you honey)
Take a chance on me
“SERIOUSLY,” the Lord says! The downturn of our economy and the deterioration of family should be enough for us to “TAKE A CHANCE ”on Jesus? Oh Mama Mia, the Lord is crying! This is not a message of FEAR, no this is a message of HOPE. Hope from Jesus! You say what hope? Hopefully God has your attention and He wants you to pray like this.
Heavenly Father you are our hope and salvation. Grant me the power to say NO to ungodliness and Yes to you. Forgive me when I did not stick up for family values and say no. Father bring down the ministering angels to help us break this cycle of fear. I pray that you attack the spirit of fear over all those have the financial ability to make changes for our economy. Father direct the thoughts of those in charge of these decisions and release the wisdom they need to turn this around. In Jesus name. Amen.
No Fear,
Elaine
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Seriously
Proverbs 16:20
It pays to take life seriously; things work out when you trust in God.
One of the first duties of a rational being is to inquire seriously why he was created, and what he is to do to answer the purpose of his creation. (American Dictionary Noah Webster 1828)
Dear Friend:
I was picturing myself texting you the word “seriously.” I don’t know if you notice how much our youth say this word today. I can count it when they talk sometimes 5 times or more in a conversation. Consider how much you use this word or much someone else uses the word.
Are you finding out what God has to say and taking it “seriously?” Do you listen to what others are “seriously” asking you to believe? It can be random conversations but we listen and take it “seriously.”
Let’s pray: Father in heaven your word says it pays to take life seriously; help me to trust you. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Seriously,
Elaine
It pays to take life seriously; things work out when you trust in God.
One of the first duties of a rational being is to inquire seriously why he was created, and what he is to do to answer the purpose of his creation. (American Dictionary Noah Webster 1828)
Dear Friend:
I was picturing myself texting you the word “seriously.” I don’t know if you notice how much our youth say this word today. I can count it when they talk sometimes 5 times or more in a conversation. Consider how much you use this word or much someone else uses the word.
Are you finding out what God has to say and taking it “seriously?” Do you listen to what others are “seriously” asking you to believe? It can be random conversations but we listen and take it “seriously.”
Let’s pray: Father in heaven your word says it pays to take life seriously; help me to trust you. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Seriously,
Elaine
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Stress Reliever
The Priestly Blessing –Numbers 6:22-27
22 The LORD said to Moses, 23 "Tell Aaron and his sons, 'This is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them:
24 " ' "The LORD bless you
and keep you;
25 the LORD make his face shine upon you
and be gracious to you;
26 the LORD turn his face toward you
and give you peace." '
27 "So they will put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them."
Dear Friend:
This Priestly blessing was written right after Moses received the ten commandments. Aaron and Moses were receiving all sorts of instructions regarding the Priestly duties. The Lord instructed them to pray and say to the Israelites this blessing.
I use this blessing in the nursing home all the time. I find it refreshing and reassuring. In these uncertain times it is refreshing to hear from God that he will keep you, be gracious to you and give you peace. A bit of a stress reliever, I would say!
Pray with me: Father in heaven thank you for keeping me , blessing me, being gracious to me and giving me peace. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Being Blessed,
Elaine
22 The LORD said to Moses, 23 "Tell Aaron and his sons, 'This is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them:
24 " ' "The LORD bless you
and keep you;
25 the LORD make his face shine upon you
and be gracious to you;
26 the LORD turn his face toward you
and give you peace." '
27 "So they will put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them."
Dear Friend:
This Priestly blessing was written right after Moses received the ten commandments. Aaron and Moses were receiving all sorts of instructions regarding the Priestly duties. The Lord instructed them to pray and say to the Israelites this blessing.
I use this blessing in the nursing home all the time. I find it refreshing and reassuring. In these uncertain times it is refreshing to hear from God that he will keep you, be gracious to you and give you peace. A bit of a stress reliever, I would say!
Pray with me: Father in heaven thank you for keeping me , blessing me, being gracious to me and giving me peace. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Being Blessed,
Elaine
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Job Offer
Moses said to the Lord, “O Lord, I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue. Exodus 4:10
Dear Friend:
Imagine if an owner of the company came to you and proposed a job for you and you responded as above? If the statement above was not bad enough look at the next statement Moses said.
But Moses said, “O Lord, please send someone else to do it.” Exodus 4:13
God knows everything about you and me. Do you not believe that? God says he knows every hair on your head. He knows if we are qualified for a job.
If you are a praying person and waiting on God for answer for things going on in your life. Stop, picturing the way he should answer it and start just responding to what is in front of you. God is lavishing wisdom on you and wants to help. Pray, wait, respond.
It takes courage to do what God is putting in front of you. It also takes courage to continue going when things seem difficult. Here are some quick things I counted up about Moses’s job:
Moses asked Pharoah “to let the people go and worship” 8 times.
God hardened Pharoah’s hearts 18 times
Pharoah asked Moses “to pray to stop the plagues” 6 times.
Pharoah said “he would let the people go” and changed his mind 6 times.
What a hard time Moses had with Pharoah.
God cast a vision starting with Abraham, saying “I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” Genesis 12:2-3 Did you know from Genesis through Exodus ( that ‘s Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses) he repeats this promise 23 times. Now that is reassurance for life.
Let’s pray: Father in heaven things are hard right now. Thank you for the testimony of our faith fathers. Help me to trust you because you are so trustworthy. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
So got any job offers lately? Things seem difficult and not clear? God will see you through it ALL!
Listening to God,
Elaine
Dear Friend:
Imagine if an owner of the company came to you and proposed a job for you and you responded as above? If the statement above was not bad enough look at the next statement Moses said.
But Moses said, “O Lord, please send someone else to do it.” Exodus 4:13
God knows everything about you and me. Do you not believe that? God says he knows every hair on your head. He knows if we are qualified for a job.
If you are a praying person and waiting on God for answer for things going on in your life. Stop, picturing the way he should answer it and start just responding to what is in front of you. God is lavishing wisdom on you and wants to help. Pray, wait, respond.
It takes courage to do what God is putting in front of you. It also takes courage to continue going when things seem difficult. Here are some quick things I counted up about Moses’s job:
Moses asked Pharoah “to let the people go and worship” 8 times.
God hardened Pharoah’s hearts 18 times
Pharoah asked Moses “to pray to stop the plagues” 6 times.
Pharoah said “he would let the people go” and changed his mind 6 times.
What a hard time Moses had with Pharoah.
God cast a vision starting with Abraham, saying “I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” Genesis 12:2-3 Did you know from Genesis through Exodus ( that ‘s Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses) he repeats this promise 23 times. Now that is reassurance for life.
Let’s pray: Father in heaven things are hard right now. Thank you for the testimony of our faith fathers. Help me to trust you because you are so trustworthy. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
So got any job offers lately? Things seem difficult and not clear? God will see you through it ALL!
Listening to God,
Elaine
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Fragrance
Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land. The fig tree forms its early fruit; the blossoming vines spread their fragrance. Arise, come, my darling; my beautiful one, come with me. Song of Songs 2:12-13
Dear Friend:
Can't you just see it! Imagine standing in a place where flowers appear on the earth and the singing of the season appears and the doves coo. Fruit is on the trees and the fragrance of the blossoms is fresh. With the beauty the Lord bestowed upon us that is radiant we look and see Him standing there in the garden and we walk…..walk to Jesus. We kneel before Him and give thanks and praise for He is good and his love is surely felt. What an encounter!
Spreading God's fragrance of love,
Elaine
Dear Friend:
Can't you just see it! Imagine standing in a place where flowers appear on the earth and the singing of the season appears and the doves coo. Fruit is on the trees and the fragrance of the blossoms is fresh. With the beauty the Lord bestowed upon us that is radiant we look and see Him standing there in the garden and we walk…..walk to Jesus. We kneel before Him and give thanks and praise for He is good and his love is surely felt. What an encounter!
Spreading God's fragrance of love,
Elaine
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Continue
2 Chronicles 6:14 He said: "O LORD, God of Israel, there is no God like you in heaven or on earth--you who keep your covenant of love with your servants who continue wholeheartedly in your way.
Dear Friend:
God’s message is to continue…
Wholeheartedly in your way 1King 8:23
To love Psalm 36:10
In the grace of God Acts 13:43
To do everything written in the book of law Galatians 3:10
To work out your salvation Philippians 2:12
In your firm faith Colossians 1:23
In what you have learned and become convinced 2 Timothy 3:14
In Him 1John 2:28
In the teaching of Christ 2John 1:9
To do right Revelation 22:11
To be holy Revelation 22:11
In His kindness Romans 11:22
1John5:18 we know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the one who was born of God keeps him safe, and the evil one cannot harm him.
Let’s pray: Father you have a message for me and it is to continue….give me the strength, wisdom and ability to do all that you ask of me. Guide me on the right path. Thank you Father. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Contin’ue- to abide for any time indefinitely.
Continuing,
Elaine
Dear Friend:
God’s message is to continue…
Wholeheartedly in your way 1King 8:23
To love Psalm 36:10
In the grace of God Acts 13:43
To do everything written in the book of law Galatians 3:10
To work out your salvation Philippians 2:12
In your firm faith Colossians 1:23
In what you have learned and become convinced 2 Timothy 3:14
In Him 1John 2:28
In the teaching of Christ 2John 1:9
To do right Revelation 22:11
To be holy Revelation 22:11
In His kindness Romans 11:22
1John5:18 we know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the one who was born of God keeps him safe, and the evil one cannot harm him.
Let’s pray: Father you have a message for me and it is to continue….give me the strength, wisdom and ability to do all that you ask of me. Guide me on the right path. Thank you Father. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Contin’ue- to abide for any time indefinitely.
Continuing,
Elaine
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Question
When Peter saw him, he asked, “Lord, what about him?” Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.” John 21:20b-21
Dear Friend:
Sometimes don’t you just want to be able to know what is going on with someone and be able to tell others? These days we live in a world where communication can be passed along so fast by text messaging or e-mailing. We can get a hold of people so fast we never have to wait. We can be so impulsive with information we don’t even have to think but just react and pass it on.
Peter had his last moment with Jesus before Jesus had to leave earth. Peter was walking and talking personally with Jesus and getting his last instructions. He turns to Jesus and asks “what about him, what is going to happen with him?” Peter was referring to the disciple John, who happens to be very close to both of them, and he lets his curiosity get the best of him. He had trouble just staying focused sticking with Jesus and discussing what was between just the two of them.
Do you have the same problem in your prayer life with Jesus? Do you ask a lot of questions about others, when maybe you should be just following Jesus and sticking to yourself? I think Jesus response is pretty clear. “Just follow me!” We of course need to check our motives. Why are we concerning ourselves with other people’s matters? Something to think about.
Let’s pray:
Father in heaven thank you for the reminder to “Just follow you.” Help me to keep my eyes on you and the concerns you have with me. Forgive me for sticking my nose in other people’s business. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Trying to mind my own business,
Elaine
Dear Friend:
Sometimes don’t you just want to be able to know what is going on with someone and be able to tell others? These days we live in a world where communication can be passed along so fast by text messaging or e-mailing. We can get a hold of people so fast we never have to wait. We can be so impulsive with information we don’t even have to think but just react and pass it on.
Peter had his last moment with Jesus before Jesus had to leave earth. Peter was walking and talking personally with Jesus and getting his last instructions. He turns to Jesus and asks “what about him, what is going to happen with him?” Peter was referring to the disciple John, who happens to be very close to both of them, and he lets his curiosity get the best of him. He had trouble just staying focused sticking with Jesus and discussing what was between just the two of them.
Do you have the same problem in your prayer life with Jesus? Do you ask a lot of questions about others, when maybe you should be just following Jesus and sticking to yourself? I think Jesus response is pretty clear. “Just follow me!” We of course need to check our motives. Why are we concerning ourselves with other people’s matters? Something to think about.
Let’s pray:
Father in heaven thank you for the reminder to “Just follow you.” Help me to keep my eyes on you and the concerns you have with me. Forgive me for sticking my nose in other people’s business. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Trying to mind my own business,
Elaine
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
In My Pocket
Romans 10:9-10 if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord”, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.
Dear Friend:
My grandma is in nursing home and beside her bed is a little cross stitch holder with a cross inserted in the pocket with a piece of paper folded with the following prayer. Perhaps you may want to pray this prayer today.
I carry a cross in my pocket a simple reminder to me of the fact that I am a Christian no matter where I may be. This little cross isn’t magic it isn’t meant to protect me it’s not for identification for all the world to see it’s simply an understanding between my Savior and me. When I put my hand in my pocket the cross is there to remind me of the price he paid for me. It reminds me to be thankful for my blessings day by day and to strive to serve Him better in all that I do or say. It’s also a daily reminder of the peace and comfort I share with all who know my master and give themselves to His care. So, I carry a cross in my pocket reminding no one but me that Jesus Christ is Lord of my life if only I’ll let Him be. Amen
Confessing Jesus as my Savior,
Elaine
Dear Friend:
My grandma is in nursing home and beside her bed is a little cross stitch holder with a cross inserted in the pocket with a piece of paper folded with the following prayer. Perhaps you may want to pray this prayer today.
I carry a cross in my pocket a simple reminder to me of the fact that I am a Christian no matter where I may be. This little cross isn’t magic it isn’t meant to protect me it’s not for identification for all the world to see it’s simply an understanding between my Savior and me. When I put my hand in my pocket the cross is there to remind me of the price he paid for me. It reminds me to be thankful for my blessings day by day and to strive to serve Him better in all that I do or say. It’s also a daily reminder of the peace and comfort I share with all who know my master and give themselves to His care. So, I carry a cross in my pocket reminding no one but me that Jesus Christ is Lord of my life if only I’ll let Him be. Amen
Confessing Jesus as my Savior,
Elaine
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Text Message
are you tired? worn out? Jesus matthew 11:28
i won’t lay anything heavy on you. hang in there with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightyly. Jesus matthew 11:30
. text message to my friend:
feeling lonely? feeling like the world and everyone is against you?
Text the big guy upstairs
Maybe something like this:
Jesus
thanks. u there?
Jesus response:
i have ur back today, trust me, ur on my mind and in my heart.
Texting God,
Elaine
i won’t lay anything heavy on you. hang in there with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightyly. Jesus matthew 11:30
. text message to my friend:
feeling lonely? feeling like the world and everyone is against you?
Text the big guy upstairs
Maybe something like this:
Jesus
thanks. u there?
Jesus response:
i have ur back today, trust me, ur on my mind and in my heart.
Texting God,
Elaine
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Be In The Moment
Dear Friend:
I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well. It gave me great joy to have some brothers come and tell about your faithfulness to the truth and how you continue to walk in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. 3John 1:1-5
Someone sent me this greeting for the New Year and I thought it was just beautiful. The letter really starts out with “the elder, To my dear friend Gaius, whom I love in the truth.” Gaius is a leader in the church and housed many travelling teachers and dealt with affairs of the church.
So I was thinking about this greeting and how special it was for John to be so warm and encouraging to Gaius. Don’t we need to greet each other with more love and encouragement? I have been thinking about how our children are being raised to meet high goals and expectations and our body language and words can become very businesslike. Because we are trained to meet goals we greet them with our checklist. Have you done this to your loved ones? Have you felt like cutting off those that call and ask how you are? Don’t you sometimes think in your head “get to the point of why you called, stop the small talk?” Do you run around with your checklist written or in your head? Do you have trouble being “in the moment?” The M.O. of the world “you got to show you are producing.” Whether you recognize it or not, it is stressing us out! We have lost the art of just “BEING IN THE MOMENT.” Being in the moment is sitting having coffee, lunch (whatever) and listening and sharing without always checking your text messages, cell phone or checklist, but truly putting those things aside and enjoying who you are with. Try it with your kids or loved ones. Try to put everything aside and give them attention. Maybe tell them you are working on this. You may have to train the kids to “be in the moment” because they can’t put down their cell phone for one minute (have you noticed that?)
At Christian camp we don’t allow cell phones or ipods. The kids always thank me at the end of the camp and they always get why we take them away.
Will you pray with me: Father in heaven thank you for a new year. Thank you for______. I pray in this New Year that you can help me to be more in the moment with others. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
I sincerely greet you as John greeted Gaius and pray that you can be more in the moment with others THIS NEW YEAR. I pray that you find time to read the bible this year. It is already six days into the New Year, but just find online a site that teaches you to read through the bible. Here is the one I use.
http://www.turningpointonline.org/site/R?i=DGAHmtiEqjojeNnPi_y6Pg
Pickup with today’s date and don’t worry just “be in the moment.”
Trying to be more in the moment,
Elaine
I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well. It gave me great joy to have some brothers come and tell about your faithfulness to the truth and how you continue to walk in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. 3John 1:1-5
Someone sent me this greeting for the New Year and I thought it was just beautiful. The letter really starts out with “the elder, To my dear friend Gaius, whom I love in the truth.” Gaius is a leader in the church and housed many travelling teachers and dealt with affairs of the church.
So I was thinking about this greeting and how special it was for John to be so warm and encouraging to Gaius. Don’t we need to greet each other with more love and encouragement? I have been thinking about how our children are being raised to meet high goals and expectations and our body language and words can become very businesslike. Because we are trained to meet goals we greet them with our checklist. Have you done this to your loved ones? Have you felt like cutting off those that call and ask how you are? Don’t you sometimes think in your head “get to the point of why you called, stop the small talk?” Do you run around with your checklist written or in your head? Do you have trouble being “in the moment?” The M.O. of the world “you got to show you are producing.” Whether you recognize it or not, it is stressing us out! We have lost the art of just “BEING IN THE MOMENT.” Being in the moment is sitting having coffee, lunch (whatever) and listening and sharing without always checking your text messages, cell phone or checklist, but truly putting those things aside and enjoying who you are with. Try it with your kids or loved ones. Try to put everything aside and give them attention. Maybe tell them you are working on this. You may have to train the kids to “be in the moment” because they can’t put down their cell phone for one minute (have you noticed that?)
At Christian camp we don’t allow cell phones or ipods. The kids always thank me at the end of the camp and they always get why we take them away.
Will you pray with me: Father in heaven thank you for a new year. Thank you for______. I pray in this New Year that you can help me to be more in the moment with others. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
I sincerely greet you as John greeted Gaius and pray that you can be more in the moment with others THIS NEW YEAR. I pray that you find time to read the bible this year. It is already six days into the New Year, but just find online a site that teaches you to read through the bible. Here is the one I use.
http://www.turningpointonline.org/site/R?i=DGAHmtiEqjojeNnPi_y6Pg
Pickup with today’s date and don’t worry just “be in the moment.”
Trying to be more in the moment,
Elaine
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)