tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88116821360630685402024-03-12T19:46:58.200-07:00Journey of Grace A Blog of my writings about God's grace in my life and things I have learned on my, " Journey Of Grace."
Hope you will take time to read. God bless each of you. Brenda Carney EldredAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-4707745788935911412018-11-02T12:21:00.000-07:002018-11-02T12:21:21.577-07:00Introduction to Grace and Person of Grace<br />
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Introduction to Grace<br />
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You can neither touch nor see grace. The reality, however, if you allow Grace to work in your life, it will wrap you in a blanket of peace, love, hope, and security. Even in the most difficult of times, Grace makes it possible to say, "It is well with my soul!"<br />
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Person of Grace<br />
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A person of high standing, has money, power, and considered beautiful and self assured. Sadly, often arrogant, self-centered, uncaring, and controlling. Their agenda and power comes before God and the needs of others.<br />
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The person of Grace may be seen as plain, with a gentle, kind spirit. Often it is a joy and delight to be in their company. They nurture the brokenhearted and show forgiveness, because they care and are interested in the concerns of others. Manty times there is a mystery about them that draws people to them. They create a desire in others to understand what makes them special. Humble with an inter beauty that is mostly over looked. A person of power and strength, but will never abuse it. Their gentle ways can stop the most cruel offender, bringing the mighty to their knees before God, and reduce the arrogant to tears. As we get to know them, we see the face of God revealed in them. My prayer is that I will grow to be a, "Person of Grace." May I help those around me to seek the Grace of God in their life.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-52762250775129347052018-07-22T17:26:00.002-07:002018-07-22T17:26:28.152-07:00The Eyes- Windows to Pain<br />
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The Eyes-Windows To Pain<br />
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Sitting in the ER, where I had taken David, at his request, so I knew it was bad.<br />
It was easy to tell the ones that had a fever. Their coat was buttoned up or they had asked for a warm blanket. Usually they were snuggled up to the companion with them. You knew they were trying to get warm. If their eyes were open you could see the misery in them, very sad and dull.<br />
Others that did not have fever, was not as obvious. But, if you watched, you could recognize the pain. Shifting in the seat to get comfortable, clinched teeth. They had a hard time sitting still. The more sever the pain, the wider the eyes were opened.<br />
Some like David, had pain and to move only made it worse. They sat very still and it seemed to hurt if they opened their eyes. No matter the discomfort, they could only sit still for so long, until they had to shift positions. Pain so bad they broke out in a cold sweat.<br />
Babies and children are the saddest. They cling to a person or someone with them, often cannot stop crying or whimpering. Their eyes are so sad and sometimes have a look of fear.<br />
That day there was the attention getter. I'll call her Ann. An orderly wheeled her into the waiting area in a wheel chair. Not sitting close enough to anyone for a conversation, she would just make noises, at first. When that didn't work, Ann got out of the wheel chair, walked to the desk to see where in line she was to see the doctor and how long she would have to wait. She sat back down in the wheel chair.<br />
Another lady came in and wanted a seat close to a plug in so she could charge her IPad and phone. The plug was next to Ann. Conversation partner, held captive.<br />
Ann, wanted to know what was wrong with the child she had with her. She then related the details of when she had the same problem, brought on by the abuse of others. Ann also talked loud enough so that everyone in the room could hear her story.<br />
The talk turned to Ann's problems only after that. She had driven herself to another hospital and was number fifteen in line to see the nurses and then the doctor. Waiting an hour, she still had eight ahead of her. She left that hospital and drive to the one we were at. She was pleased there was not a full waiting room and assumed she would get in quickly.<br />
Ann, proceeded to tell everyone her stomach was hurting and she felt like an elephant was sitting on it. With a loud voice she let the staff and everyone else, know she needed prompt attention. When that didn't get the desired attention she wanted, she got out of the wheel chair again and marched to the reception desk.There she started screaming at the nurses, that promptly brought out the security officer.<br />
Calming her down, she came back and sat down again. She was quiet, only for a few minutes. Across the waiting room she began to scream at the nursing staff. They weren't doing their their job, neglecting the patients, not taking care of them, which should be their job priority.<br />
A security officer and a very tall husky, male nurse came for Ann and wheeled her into a room to check her vitals and have a little talk with her.<br />
When they wheeled her back into the waiting room, with tears in her eyes, she apologized to everyone for her behavior. Ann was called to then go to an exam room, ahead of others.<br />
When Ann left the room, one lady said, "She must be chasing the devil." Others just nodded their heads.<br />
When they called David, for his turn, we could hear Ann screaming at the nurses. They had put her in an area separated from most of the patients.<br />
As I had watch Ann, in the waiting room, her eyes showed anger and disgust. They weren't the eyes of someone in the kind of pain she insisted she had. As I thought about all that had occured, I came to the conclusion, that had she been in that kind of pain, she would have called an ambulance. Not driven herself, she certainly would not have left one hospital and driven to another, after an hour of waiting. Her need for attention was greater than her need for the treatment of pain.<br />
David finally saw a nurse and a doctor. After blood work, other test, and a CT scan, it was determined he had a kidney stone. With meds and knowing the problem will be dealt with, we went home. David will see the specialist on Monday.<br />
The next morning the meds had worn off and the pain woke him up. Worst pain yet, he took his meds and lay back down. I rubbed his back until he relaxed and fell asleep.<br />
Suddenly it took me back many years. Linda, my twin sister, would sit up with me at night and rub my back or legs to help me deal with the pain I had. I was also reminded it was the pain, fear and emotional distress that Dr.Tosh saw in my eyes and alerted him to the trouble I was in. My mind was no longer dealing with the pain, I had endured all that I could handle. He observation saved my life. Yet my Mom, was oblivious to the pain I was in, even though I had tried telling her many times.<br />
Strange that it has taken me over fifty years to recognize, that the eyes are the window to pain and joy in our lives. I now find myself looking closer at people and looking to see if they are in stress as I was so many years ago.<br />
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(C) Copyright, all right reserved. July 2018 <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-28909186942164266262018-07-22T17:25:00.001-07:002018-07-22T17:25:19.410-07:00The Power of Water The Power of Water<br />
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Water is the sustainer of life or it can destroy life. Our bodies need water for all our organs to function properly and our life began in water in our Mothers womb. To much or to little water and you have a disaster.<br />
Protection is provided with water. Putting out the flames of a burning home, business, or forest, and saving lives.<br />
We water our yards to keep them green in the hot summer sun. Crops are waters to help them grow, if there is not enough rain. We water plants in our homes, giving us plants and flowers to enjoy all year.<br />
Water is also dangerous. To much rain and we have floods. Some floods covers a small area, but other destroy entire regions. Destroying homes, crops, cities, small towns, and taking the lives of animals and people. To little rain and you have a drought. Crops die and the land dries up and the good soil erodes and blows away with the winds. People is areas of drought often die for lack of water to drink.<br />
Water can provide a lot of fun. Swimming, boating, floating the rivers, or using tubs or skis on the lakes. A trip on the ocean for a few days or a week or more. The slides at an amusement water park, areas to swim, float, or ride an artificial surf. Balloons filled with water for a water balloon fight with our friends.<br />
Storms over the oceans or seas, can create even more disasters. A boat or ship can be easily tossed about. Sometimes lives are lost and the a ship or boat sinks. If the storms move over land, the rain and winds can do great destruction and take lives. Often calling for evacuation of people, to save their lives.<br />
The ocean calm is a beautiful scene, Swimming, boating, fishing, fun for the whole family. The sunrise and sunset are beautiful and the reflection of that sun or moon on the water can be breathtaking. <br />
There is fresh water and salty water. Most seas and oceans are salty. Only mammals can live in salty water. Some mammals large and scary others very small, delicate and beautifully colored. There are mammals that spend time on land, often surface for us to see and enjoy. Fresh water we can drink to sustain our lives, and the animals of the earth. Most of the fish from fresh water are eatable and can be lots of fun to catch.<br />
The rainbow is seen over water and land. It is God's creation, to remind us of His faithfulness, that never again will He destroy the entire world with a flood.<br />
We are baptized in water after we are saved. Representing being washed in the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. Signifying His death, burial, and resurrection.<br />
Learn of the power of water, for good or bad and use it wisely.<br />
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(C) Copy right January 2018. All right reserved. <br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-59320190084067442282018-05-04T20:56:00.001-07:002018-05-04T20:56:30.764-07:00Hidden Away By Grace Hidden Away By Grace<br />
Mary grew up in Nazareth, hidden away by grace, from the church leaders, officials, and the enemy of God. Growing up she was taught the love of God and all His ways. Learning and growing in grace for a purpose yet unknown to her. An encounter with the Angel of God, her life would never be the same. She would no longer be hidden away.<br />
Her baby was born hidden in a stable. Christ the Lord, the long awaited King of the Jews. Hidden from the enemy of God. The child grew up a carpenter by trade, awaiting the time to begin His ministry and change the world forever.In grace the Messiah stepped out. Rejected by many of His own, to the gentiles would the disciples be sent. Death on the cross, the Saviour revealed. The resurrection of our Lord, no longer His identity hidden away.<br />
A child is born, unwanted by some, saying its doesn't deserve to live. Too many flaws, problems, and needs for the world to see. Defective in their eyes, but, hidden away inside of each one are special gifts from God. With love and nurturing the gifts are revealed to those willing to embrace the child of God. A child should never be hidden away.<br />
Many of God's chosen are hidden away for a time in their life for grace to reveal. Often lonely, sad, and discouraged, wanting to know why? Asking is their someone for me? Hidden away until their special love is revealed. Ready to step into a new life together, fulfilling God's plan and purpose for them. God's grace no longer hidden away.<br />
Then there are those that struggle and try, but feel they can never measure up. Never to be who they want to be. Sometimes doubting their own faith. some are living outside the will of God, the enemy has them in bondage to him. Still others in repair of their life, wounded and rejected by man. Man simple says, "Throw them away." Some are to young, some are to old, others are unfit to serve. Could it be that God has some of them hidden away by grace for a time yet to come.<br />
Is it not fair to say, "If God had not hidden them away by grace, " some of the messages for the world, the enemy in hatred, would have destroyed each one. We cannot judge the life of another, we do not know their heart or the truths that grace has hidden away. Grace in God's time will reveal the truth, grace again will carry the message, God is the great I AM. His secrets one day will no longer be hidden away from a single man. <br />
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(C) Copy right 2018 All right reserved.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-23987439230918377172018-04-27T06:47:00.001-07:002018-04-27T09:58:04.100-07:00Scales of Grace<br />
Scales Of grace<br />
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How do we measure sin, is it on a scale of 1 to 10? What sin should should be least and what sin should be the worst? Many do not look at themselves and admit to their own sin, but, are more than willing to point out the sins of others.<br />
Would the disobedience of Adam and Eve, in the Garden of Eden, be the least? After all it was the first. Should God have overlooked that sin, "It wasn't that bad of a sin, only disobedience," we have all done that at some time in our lives. However, that one bite of the fruit, has brought us to where we are today.<br />
We get angry when someone lies or steals from us, yet we overlook our own attitudes and beliefs, or the gossip we spread, saying, "It's just a prayer request." How often do we pass judgment when someone ignores us or speaks to us in anger? Does murder, rape, or child abuse weigh heavy on the scales of sin? Where does it weigh, when we in anger and fear lash out at God with words that a person should never speak, especially a Christian?<br />
How do we or how should we measure the degree of sin committed against another person? Should it be on a scale of 1 to 10? There is no scale we can use to measure sin! We can only set the punishment as we see it should be for those convicted of a crime against another. Seems to me we haven't done to good of a job, even with that. How dare we be so arrogant and critical of one another.<br />
What does our heavenly Father use as His scale? Does He see the one who was abused as a child and now uses drugs, as one He should overlook their sins? Should He say, "It's OK," to the one that has an abortion because of incest or rape? The one that beats or kills another, is God to overlook them too, because of the way they were raised? I'm thankful He is the final Judge!<br />
God's scale is called GRACE. The grace of forgiveness. He doesn't overlook the things that have happened to us, or the things we have done. But we are required, with the help of the Holy Spirit to forgive our offenders and ourselves, then God will forgive us.<br />
God gave His only Begotten Son, to pay the price, He did not owe, for our sins. Christ gave His life for you and me. No matter what we have done, grace is for each of us. Salvation freely given with peace is offered to everyone and life eternal, if we accept the Saviour.<br />
When Christ died on the cross, He paid the same price for every sin that was ever committed or will ever be committed. The price of His death made every sin equal.<br />
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Romans 6:23 KJV<br />
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For the wages of sin is death: but, the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus<br />
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Christ our Lord. <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-70118611198617261332018-04-23T01:03:00.000-07:002018-04-23T01:05:18.899-07:00Innocence Lost<br />
It has grieved me to see all the violence in our schools. Our Children no longer have a childhood. Their innocence has been lost. Sadly Christians must share part of the blame.This is my view of what has happened to schools and society over the past 60 years. I hope you will read and leave a commit, but remember it is my view not yours.<br />
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Innocence Lost<br />
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When and why was innocence lost for the children of America. They grow up so fast, no time for them to be children. No time to learn what little boys and girls really were meant to be. In our world today children know more about sex and murder, even before they learn to read or spell their on name. Through TV and movies children are exposed to sex and violence everyday on almost every channel. Drugs often handed out on school play grounds.<br />
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When was Innocence lost? Prayer was taken out of school. No longer a prayer covering over the schools, teachers, or the children. Evil was free to roam the the halls and classrooms. Trouble, it was just beginning.<br />
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When was innocence lost? The Ten Commandments were also removed from our schools. No moral right or wrong was taught after that. Morals looked at as something evil, that puts restrictions on our right to live as we please. How another my be affected has no place in our thoughts. Live for self and get what you want. Morals are up to mans own way of thinking and his interpretation.<br />
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When was innocence lost? Creation was taken out of schools. Children then taught that evolution is the way we came into existence. First there was goo, then time in the zoo, and finally you. No value given to the uniqueness of every creature created by God or that Man was created in the image of God alone, instead we are all reduced to goo.<br />
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When was innocence lost? When life began to have no value or worth. Die with dignity and don't be a burden on society. Get out of the way, you take up to much space, time and resources. Now the elderly are to costly or sick to tolerate. The handicapped and special needs are considered even a greater burden. A freak of nature.<br />
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When was innocence lost? When the unborn was reduced to unwanted tissue, that needed to be discarded.It wasn't a baby and had no value or worth, so it needed no protection. An inconvenience to get rid of. Now they want to discard the baby, just because it is the wrong sex. Life to be thrown in the trash.<br />
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When was innocence lost? The wars of yesterday and today. Children growing up in a home without the presence or a loss of a mother or father. They could be gone for months or years, some never return home at all. No solid foundation of a home and family. Some mothers are even convinced that it is better for the government to pay you what is needed to be home with your children. Kids don't need a Father at home. But, what the kids have gotten is gangs, drugs, and violence.<br />
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When was innocence lost? The attacks of 9/11. Children killing children. Others bullied until a child commits suicide. Killings in the theaters, car wrecks, violence at home. Abuse of all kinds, all the result of innocence lost.<br />
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But, the question we must ask, "Why was innocence lost?" That is what all must answer for one day. Prayer was thrown out and discarded along with the Ten Commandments by the indifference of God's people. Christians did not pray or stand up for Godly principles.They sat back and arrogantly believed, "God won't let it happen, it will be fine, after all we are a Christian nation." That is the commit I heard growing up.<br />
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Christians took on the ways of the world to raise their children. Dr. Spock was preferred over the foundations of the Bible to raise them. That was for the old times, not for modern times. Everybody is doing things the modern way and we must be in line with rest of the world.<br />
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Children learn more from the TV than they do from their parents. Satan has become the guy in the little red suit, with a tail, horns, and he carries a pitch fork, mostly seen on Halloween. Children are told he is only a myth and to ignore what the Church has to say about him.Children are told it is OK to dabble in the occult, gain a better understanding of their world and become their own god. Christians have stood back and allowed abortions to become the standard way of dealing with the unwanted child. Now marriage itself is being threatened in our country. Those who believe in an alternate life style, feel they have the right to take the title, marriage for their way of life.<br />
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Will we as a child of God ever stand, even to our death to protect our children<br />
from what the enemy's trying to turn our country into? Will we as Christians ever come together, accepting one another, and bowing our knees, together, calling on our God and humbly seeking His forgiveness and asking Him to heal our land. Have we waited to long I pray we haven't." The Bible saw we will have a great revival before the end and I pray for that. Christians will have much to answer for when we face our Holy God!<br />
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(C) All right reserved<br />
Brenda Carney Eldred April 23, 2018 <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0221 Rd, Jetmore, KS 67854, USA37.996162679728116 -99.8437512.474128179728115 -141.152344 63.518197179728119 -58.535156tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-12475966456861689102015-06-26T12:38:00.001-07:002015-06-26T13:01:13.890-07:00Phyllis and Dust Bunnies Friends have told me I have a contagious laugh. David (my husband) says my laughter make him feel things are good and loves to hear me laugh. I hope I got my laughter from Phyllis. Hope you enjoy my trip down memory lane about Phyllis. Miss her very much.<br />
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Phyllis and Dust Bunnies<br />
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January 8, 2015, my dear sister, Phyllis Stewart passed away. Thoughts and memories of her have come flooding back. As our cousin, John Carney shared at the funeral, Phyllis had a laugh all her own. She would place her hands on her legs, just above the knees, lean forward and just laugh. The commit reminded me of the dust bunnies.<br />
Anyone who knew Phyllis, also knew she kept a very clean home. I doubt she ever had dust bunnies.. My home, on the other hand, dust bunnies you will find. My thing is cooking not cleaning.<br />
I cannot remember why but, Mom, Dad, Phyllis, and Rudy were at our home in Springfield overnight. Something was wrong with the refrigerator. After supper with dishes done, David pulled the refrigerator out from the wall to work on it, however under and behind needed some cleaning . Phyllis, Mom and I got busy cleaning the floor, wall and back of the refrigerator. Of course there was dust bunnies..<br />
Phyllis started laughing. Hands on her legs, leaning forward, she started laughing and couldn't stop. Her laugh was so contagious, Mom and I started laughing. All three of us ended up with tears in our eyes, we laughed so hard. Now many years later, when the refrigerator is moved out the dust bunnies are cleaned away, I am reminded of that day and it brings a warm smile to my face.<br />
Who would imagine that dust bunnies could bring back a warm wonderful memory of Phyllis, that is so special. People I have worked with over the years have told me I have a contagious laugh. I hope I do have her love of laughter, it came from her heart.<br />
Sis, I miss your beautiful smile and laughter but, I know i will see you again.<br />
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© Copyright 1/22/2015 All rights reserved.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-90214845235027816552015-06-24T18:41:00.002-07:002015-06-24T18:41:53.679-07:00Unseen Grace <br />
God's amazing grace watched over Linda and I while we were in our mothers womb. We were listed as twins, but we only share the same birth date.<br />
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Unseen Grace<br />
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Questions and surprises started my life. Mom planned when she wanted her children born. Her biggest surprise with me, there were two of us. Linda and I were born twins, but not twins at all.<br />
Although conceived weeks apart, Linda was born first. A total and complete pregnancy. She was premature and unable to swallow until she was a month old.<br />
I made my entrance into this world, thirty minutes later. Also a total and complete pregnancy. However, Mom had carried we way over my due date. My lungs collapsed at birth. For the first three years of my life, I fainted when I cried.<br />
What kept us alive and safe during that unusual pregnancy? Only the Unseen Grace of God could protect two little girls in the womb. Grace unseen often reflects God's greatest miracles. Looking back, I can see the grace of God throughout my life.<br />
Travel with me on my "Journey of Grace", as I share how God's unseen grace has effected my life.<br />
Take a look at your life? What unseen grace can you find woven throughout the years? If we would only take time to spend with the Lord, we would be amazed at the grace He has poured out on each of us. Learn of His grace.<br />
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Psalm139:13 (CJB)<br />
For you fashioned my inmost being, you knit me together in my mother's womb.<br />
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© Copyright 2013 All rights reserved.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-75137791721746158722014-06-28T07:33:00.003-07:002014-06-28T07:33:33.319-07:0047 Years and so blessed. 47 Years and so blessed.<br />
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June 28th,1967, 47 years ago today, I married my High School sweetheart, David Eldred. We met on April 8,1962, my 15th birthday. I knew that day he was the one I would marry.<br />
We have had our ups and downs. Some years have been tough and lean but most have been happy and blessed. Our 2 wonderful sons, Mike and James are our miracles from God. We are blessed with 2 grand children, Jonah and Wren.<br />
We were privileged to live on Guam while David was in the Air Force and traveled to Hong Kong for R&R. On our return to stateside, we traveled California visiting family. Then to Salt Lake City to see friends, on across the northern states on our way to see family in Kansas City, all during the last blizzard of the new year 1970. I had wanted to see snow after 2 years and I did.<br />
Our homes have been in Oklahoma, Arkansas,Illinois, Mississippi where both boys were born. Finally settling in Springfield, Mo the last 35 years.<br />
Camping and the out doors was out greatest adventures as the boys were growing up.<br />
No matter the season of life we have gone through our love has never wavered. Things have never been perfect but we are so blessed and thankful for all that God has brought us through. I pray we will have many more years together.<br />
Happy Anniversary to the man in my life. I love you more today then yesterday.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-9029553887156004472014-04-17T14:27:00.000-07:002014-04-17T14:29:12.914-07:00The Potter<br />
As Easter draws near, I wondered what to share. Our Lord gave His life for us. His love for us is immeasurable. No greater love will you ever find. My story "The Potter" is about the potters love for His creations. How He molds, heals, draws us to Himself, and restores each one. Hope you enjoy reading it and I pray all of you have a blessed Easter. May you be drawn closer to The Potter.<br />
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The Potter<br />
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The cold damp clay to the spinning wheel goes, awaiting The Potter, to shape and create a vessel of love. Amazing care and attention with each spin of the wheel. The whisper of love and grace the spinning wheel blends. The shape finely complete, the shape of a heart, into the hands of The Potter it goes to cradle and love. Now to the fire it must go, the growing begins. The first firing complete, the dampness, impurities, and coldness are gone. Back into the gentle hands of The Potter the vessel goes. The heart now is covered with the image of God. With each stroke of the brush, The Potter applies, faith, hope, and love. Kindness and mercy then is applied. Nurturing and strength will cover it all. The The gentle strokes of desire and love for all are added for the world to see. <br />
There is a spot on the heart, The Potter now claims. All must sealed with the blood of His Son. The image of the old rugged cross now has a place on the heart, that image of love. Back to the fire the vessel must go. Imperfections of life will now bake away. The demands, the pressures, and disappointments are gone. Unwanted and wasted the fire burns away, no more of rejection or shame. On the spinning wheel sits the heart of perfection. Clothed in passion and love for the world to behold. The Potter now stands, tears in His eyes, the love and affection it took to create this love of His life. Sealed with the blood of His Son. Now it is clothed in the beauty and love that salvation brings.A new life now to begin. Softly, God speaks in a whisper, "Come, join Me and My Son, be a part of our life, in the Family of God.<br />
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© Copyright All right reserved 2013<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-26547478412684739772014-03-30T21:32:00.000-07:002014-04-01T14:43:01.825-07:00The Good And The Bad AlikeAs I thought about what to post next, I was reminded of the heartaches so many are facing today and we often hear, "How could a loving God allow this to happen?" Because of His grace, He can allow nothing less. His desire is for all to be saved, the good and the bad. Just as one thief on the cross went to paradise with Christ when he died, the other will spend eternity in hell. They each had a choice just before they died. We all have that same choice, whether we are good or bad. Go with me as I share my view of a loving God.<br />
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NOTE: We went for a walk in the park this afternoon, we often visit with people in the park. Today we met a young woman that was pregnant. We were able to pray with her about her family. They had disowned her because she was not married. I wonder who is the good and who is the bad in this family? I also wonder how many young people have been cast out of families because they did not perform to the parents level of acceptance. I'm thankful I serve a forgiving God.<br />
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The Good And The Bad Alike<br />
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Often we see only the ugliness of this world and ask, "How could a loving God allow what is happening today?" The homeless number is growing larger everyday, and many are families. With much suffering and no place to lay their heads in safety. Yet, there are others with great riches, that they waste on the worldly pleasures of life. Many will say I have nothing to spare.<br />
People with sickness and pain. No doctor to see or even the means to pay for the medication they need. Some have great beauty but use it in disgrace, full of arrogance and pride. A child goes unfed, another born with an addiction. Many used to be thrown away for the sickness of sexual abuse. Sadly to many times those guilty still walk free on the streets, seeking their next victim. Even worse, to many little ones never have a chance, their lives taken through abortion. Then someone asks in anger, "How could a loving God allow it to happen?"<br />
God loves every one of us. The good and the bad alike. He will not force us to accept and love Him. We must surrender our free will to Him in love, weather homeless or wealthy. the plain, those of great beauty, deserving or not, He loves us all. He knows every heartache and sin committed throughout the past generations and the generations to come. He is grieved and saddened because of what man has done, but still, He must allow man to have his own way. The pain and ugliness is not drafted by God, but in the hearts of man. God gave each one of us a free will, the freedom to make our own choices. So often we hear someone say, "I'll do it my way." We throw God aside for the pleasures of today. We are born with a deep desire in our hearts to seek for God, but as we take charge of our free will we ignore the calling God sends our way. The enemy of God is the one we often seek and serve. Sin and sickness will drive many to an early grave. Yet, we dare to ask, "How could a loving God allow it to happen?"<br />
The blessings God pours out are often unseen, blessings to the good and the bad alike. For now there is no difference made. It is only those that have surrendered their lives to God, that have a new life, deeper understanding of grace, peace and joy. Each one of us, He seeks and beckons to share in His life. He alone holds the true freedom we all seek. A personal relationship in love is what God desires with each of us.<br />
The good and the bad alike, we all fall short of deserving the forgiveness and love of God but, His grace is always reaching out to each one of us. He will seek for us until we take our dying breath. How could a loving God allow what has happened in this world, how could He allow anything else? We demand our free will, yet condemn God for our consequences. He desires that not one of us should parish but live eternally in heaven as His child.<br />
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© Copyright 2014 All rights reserved<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-83607394983689859922014-03-23T00:07:00.000-07:002014-03-23T00:07:08.321-07:00Unspoken Rules Over time I have come to realize the Unspoken Rules that were within my family. Rules that caused a lot of heartaches and hurt but were never talked about. Those unspoken rules brought about four years of unbelievable physical pain in my life.It also created resentments that has taken me almost fifty years to uncover. Go with me as I share, Unspoken Rules.<br />
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Unspoken Rules<br />
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I have shared in my writings of, "Learn To Deal With It" and "The Years of Physical Pain," both were about the pain I went through, that no one knew of. The realization came to me a few weeks ago, that during those four years, not one family member ever came to me and asked how I was feeling. That revaluation has helped me understand why I had resentments from that time in my life. With the Lords help I have dealt with it and made peace. I can now write about what I learned.<br />
There was a rule in the family I was to follow no matter what. It didn't matter if I was sick, hurt feelings, or even lied about, I was not allowed to complain, or contradict. If I broke that rule, I received a harsh tongue lashing from mom<br />
There was also another rule that the whole family did follow. You did not ask questions of someone, because it would allow them the opportunity to complain. For four years, the physical, mental,and emotional pain was almost unbearable, but not one family member ever came to me and asked how I was feeling or what was going on with me. It has taken me almost fifty years to uncover the fact that I was holding resentments.<br />
Mom knew I was in pain, she told me all women go through it, "You have to Learn To Deal With It." She wrote my excuses for school, I missed about five days every month, for three and a half years. She made all my doctor appointments. I was put on three strong medications, but she never watched over how much medication I was taking every month. Yet, in all that time, mom never sat down with me and asked, "Brenda, what is going on? How bad is the pain, how are you dealing with it?" She never asked how missing so much school or trips I had to cancel, was affecting me. She never asked what I was even thinking.<br />
I have learned that the rules mom required me to follow were not fair."Don't complain." I needed to be able to complain. Possible I could have had surgery much sooner. That would have saved me the mental torment I went through, that nearly cost me my sanity.<br />
If God had not placed Dr. Tosh in my life, I would not be here today. He recognized the mental state of mind I was in and knew I was on the verge of insanity. He also recognized that mom had no idea what was going on with me. Dr Tosh sat and talked to me about all of it just weeks before David and I were married. To this day I have never really talked to my family about that four years of my life.<br />
Don't complain and don't ask questions are two rules I never want to experience again. Yet, they still affect me today. It is hard for me to speak up or defend myself when asked a question. Those rules were unfair, but looking back I know now that was how mom was raised. She never complained and if she did, she was scolded.<br />
Is there unspoken rules in your life that have destroyed someone or caused a separation between you and a family member or a friend? Is there leftover hurts and resentments, that you are having to deal with forty, fifty, or even sixty years later? Maybe its never been dealt with or even recognized.Maybe no one even knows what the unspoken rules are or that they exist. How do you get past all of it?<br />
In my case, it was having to allow God to search my heart for the things I had hidden away and would not look at. It is only God that can spread His love and forgiveness over the hidden things, so that we can remember, forgive, love, and finally have peace deep within our hearts. Allowing God to search and draw out the hidden secrets, is when His grace can take us deeper still.<br />
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© Copyright 2014 All rights reserved.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-59236955354064729792014-02-28T21:28:00.002-08:002014-02-28T21:28:25.802-08:00Grace In Circumstances It has taken me a few days to decide what I wanted to post. Friends recovering from cancer, or facing surgery, anothers just died from cancer. Tuesday I learned that I need to go back in for an ultra sounds. Something on my mammogram needs a further exam. I'm not concerned but covet your prayers. I've been there before. This piece was written years ago when I had to go through a biopsy. I'm still learning about God's amazing grace daily. He often reminds me, "Only the circumstance is changing, I never change and I'm always here." When it comes to my physical, mental and emotional health, I can trust God no matter what. He has brought me through so very much. I pray one day I will have that deep faith in every area of my life. He is faithful and will be with me no matter the outcome. Go with me as I share about God's continuing grace in my life.<br />
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Grace In Circumstances<br />
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For sometime now I have been learning and seeking to know more about the grace of God. Learning to die to the emotions and feelings of self and seeking those of Christ. If Christ is living in me, then my feelings, emotions, and attitude should be a reflection of Him. I have come so far in understanding grace but I also realize my journey of grace has just begun.<br />
Two scriptures have come to mean so much to me. First, Psalms chapter 46, Thanksgiving day 1998, a message by Charles Stanley. I've always stood firm in my beliefs in what God has for my life but, with that message, I realized I was standing firm with arrogance and rebellion in my heart. God began to use that message to change my heart and my love for others. I also realized that my emotional well being and feelings were not lining up with those of Christ. I will continue to seek God's grace to be and do what I cannot do alone.<br />
The second scripture, I Corinthians 15:58, steadfast and unmovable. We are very fortunate to have a pastor that has a love for other denominations. He has worked to bring the pastors together to pray for the work of God in our city and community. As he has often said, "There will be no denominations in heaven and we need to learn to get along here on earth."<br />
A revelations I had, life is not about me or anyone else and it is not about this world we live in. Life is about God being glorified in our daily lives. If what I am doing points to me and not God, I am out of line. If I cannot glorify God in everything I do, something is wrong. It doesn't matter if it is me or something effecting me, I should be able to glorify God in all things.<br />
The revelation that life is not about me became a reality a few weeks ago. I noticed I was very sore in my left breast and thought I felt a lump. I called my doctor and saw him the next day. He didn't find anything but sent me for a mammogram a few days later. The mammogram revealed a lump on the right side, not the left. and a biopsy would be needed. As I left the clinic a feeling of fear and panic came over me. But, my Lord reminded me, "Only the circumstance has changed, I am still God and I never change." Peace returned. I knew no matter the outcome, I would be OK. Can God be glorified in my health problems? Absolutely yes. As I sought for continued peace and direction from God, He reminded me, He had not left or forsaken me. He had not changed, only my circumstance had. I knew it was the love of God and support of my family and friends that would carry me through anything I had to face. Even though I have high blood pressure, I remained calm throughout the procedure. There was no cancer. God provides the grace for any circumstance in our life.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-64622549247181930102014-02-14T12:01:00.002-08:002014-02-14T12:01:44.795-08:00Desire Of RomanceTomorrow is Valentine's Day, so thought I would share, Desire Of Romance. I wrote this a few years ago but have never shared it. We all want and seek love but the greatest love ever expressed was God's love for each of us. Hope each of you show someone that you love them and that you receive that show of love also tomorrow. We all need a touch of love in our life. Remember love is more than a feeling, it is a commitment that carries us through the hard time in life.<br />
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Desire Of Romance<br />
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The desire and the longing, the power of romance, releases a beauty and awakens the heart. Holding hands on a beach, gazing into the wonders of the night. The stars are like diamonds shinning in the skies. The moonlight reflecting across the calm sea waters. The soft evening breeze rustle the leaves of nearby palm trees. Love is in the air.<br />
Clothed in the beauty, the splendor of the warm tender touch of an everlasting love. The desire for the future as the wedding day approaches. Dreams of what is to come. The awakening of a new passionate love stirs the longing in both.This is the love between a man and a woman. And, this is the love and the passion of the bridegroom of heaven, wooing and calling the bride to his side.<br />
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Song of Solomon 2:1-17 KJV<br />
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1. I am the rose of Sharon, and the lily of the valley. 2. As the lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters. 3. As the apple tree among the trees of the wood, so is my love among the sons. I sat down under his shadow with great delight, and his fruit was sweet to my taste. 4. He brought me to the banqueting table, and his banner over me was love. 5. Stay me with flagons, comfort me with apples: for I am sick of love. 6. His left hand is under my head, and his right hand doth embrace me. 7. I charge you, O ye daughter of Jerusalem, by the roes, and by the hinds of the field, that ye stir not up, nor awaken my love, until he please. 8. The love of my beloved! behold, he cometh leaping upon the mountains, skipping upon the hills. 9. My beloved is like a roe or a young hart: behold, he standeth behind our wall, he looketh forth at the window. shewing himself through the lattice. 10. My beloved spake, and said unto me, Rise up, my love, my fair one, and come away. 11. For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone. 12. The flowers appear on the earth: the time of the singing birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land; 13. The fig tree putteth forth her green figs. and the vines with the tender grape give a good smell. Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away. 14. O my dove, that art in the clefts of the rock, in the secret places of the stairs, let me see they countenance, let me hear thy voice; for sweet is thy voice, and thy countenance is comely. 15. Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes. 16. My beloved is mine, and I am his: he feedeth among the lilies.17. Until the day break, and the shadows flee away, turn, my beloved, and be thou like a roe and a young hart upon the mountain of Bether.<br />
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.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-71901242332486760002014-01-19T11:51:00.000-08:002014-01-19T11:51:54.904-08:00Busy It has been awhile since I posted, I've been busy. That is why I chose this writing to share. I've been to busy to make calls I need to make.People I need to check on I still haven't. Sadly I'm not sure what has had me so busy. It's time I take a look at priorities from God's prospective. When we get to busy to do the things that are important Satan has us to busy. Someone needs a call today, a word of "I love you." Look for what God has for you today and not the busyness of life. Hope this is encouraging to someone else.<br />
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Mathew 11:29,30 KJV<br />
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29. Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me; For I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your soul.<br />
30. For My yoke is easy and My burdens light.<br />
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B------Buried<br />
U------Under<br />
S------Satan's<br />
Y------Yoke<br />
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Are we buried under Satan's you.<br />
Often we get so wrapped up in doing that there is no time to hear what God has called us to do. Running here and there, yet really not getting anywhere. Busy with work, school, friends, family, and church. Where is our time for God's calling in our lives or a personal relationship with Him? Does Satan have us to busy? By giving our time to God, the busyness of life can become easy and our burdens light.<br />
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© Copyright 2013 All rights reserved.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-13998022375618058652013-12-24T08:05:00.000-08:002013-12-24T08:05:40.190-08:00The Snowman It is Christmas eve today. Want to wish all my family and friends a very Merry Christmas. May God bless your homes and family this special time of the year. This has been a crazy month so far. More snow already than we had all last season. My computer crashed, thankfully I'm back. Lost a part of my writings but hope I printed them or at least sent a copy to my sister or cousin.<br />
A child, kin to a church member is fighting leukemia, it brought back a lot of memories. 47 years ago our family faced the same thing. My niece Liz was just shy of her 4th birthday when she lost her battle 6 months later. I still think of her often.<br />
Our son Mike has a new job, more time for his family and church. We have 2 beautiful grandchildren Jonah and Wren. Our son James, is doing good. Learning to trust God more everyday. He has a beautiful lady in his life.<br />
Decorations any more are outside. The manger scene has been placed in the front yard for more years than I can remember and this year is no exception. Christmas will be spent with James and his friend. Family means as much to her as it does to us and we are thankful she has opened her home to share with us. Decided I would share The Snowman, with you. It seems it has snowed all over the country this year already. My precious mentor group at church had a snowman theme for our Christmas get to gather. The Snowman, I wrote this and shared with them.<br />
Love and Merry Christmas <br />
Brenda<br />
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The Snowman<br />
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The snowflakes fall one by one, created by the almighty God. Each one with a design of its very own. Moment by moment, then hour upon hour the snowflakes fall. Inch by inch they pile, till everything is covered. A white so beautiful it reminds us of God's cleansing power.<br />
Winds calm down, snowflakes cease to fall. A peaceful night for the children to dream. A snowman tomorrow will be built of the snow. Each one a creation of its own.<br />
A breakfast of warm oatmeal and buttered toast. A cup of hot chocolate with tiny marshmallows The children's tummies are full and their hearts are warm. Their pajamas are exchanged for warm winter clothing<br />
Now socks and galoshes on their feet much go. No cold or dampness will get to their toes. A coat buttoned up to keep in the warmth. A bright colored scarf will keep the neck warm. Next, a hat with earmuffs to keep out the cold. Warm woolen mittens on the hands now go. The door finely opens and outside the children go.<br />
First thing snowballs are made. Perfectly round, each one the same size. A snowball fight now to begin. Girls against boys, or neighbor against neighbor. No matter the out come it is determined that all are winners.<br />
One snowball remains, creation begins. At the edge of the yard the rolling begins. With each turn the snowball makes, the larger it grows. Suddenly it stops. So large has it grown, no longer can the children push. The start of the snowman now has a home.<br />
A new snowball is now formed and its journey begins at the edge of the yard. A new path it makes. Rolling is stopped before it gets home. This one is lifted, carried, and placed with care and procession, on the base of the snowman to continue its growth.<br />
Another snowball is created with care. This one is the most important of all. It is rolled on its journey, the size must be perfect. The children all say, "That is just right." One child is chosen to carry this one. To the top of the snowman, the growing now ends. The head of the snowman now is in place.<br />
The children stand back, inspecting their work. No change is required. Decoration time for the snowman has come. Two special wooden sticks are chosen, one on each side used as the arms. Three shiny stones on the middle now go. One above the other, only inches apart, now as buttons on a coat. A scarf is surrendered, a beautiful color it is, around the neck it goes.<br />
A face for the snowman is the last to be made. Five small stones places in a crescent shape, now as a mouth can be seen as a smile. The nose is the hardest to find. The size must be right for all to see. A big bright red marble is chosen, for the cold the snowman has. Two beautiful black marbles, now shine as his eyes. The children stand back, to admire their creation, but one speaks up,"Something is missing."<br />
To the tree house the oldest boys goes, for a treasure he has hidden away. An old black top hat over the summer he found. His treasure recovered, to the snowman he returns. With care and a gentle touch, he sits the hat on the top of the snowman's head.<br />
The children were delighted at the creation they had made. It will stand in the yard, a guard through the cold winter nights. The snowman is proud of the joy he's brought, but he knows in time he will return to his creator God.<br />
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© Copyright 2013 All rights reserved.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-25442704256605581522013-11-21T16:17:00.000-08:002013-11-21T16:17:06.694-08:00Stressed With Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years just around the corner, we are all facing stress of some kind.<br />
Hope this will help you. Have a wonderful and grateful Thanksgiving. A blessed Christmas, remember who we are honoring, and it is not ourselves. A New Year filled with hope for the future. Love your family, you may not have tomorrow. Prying everyone has a stress free season.<br />
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On Face Book you can learn so many things. There are hundreds of post a day. I try to watch who I am connected to. If language or content becomes offensive, I simply unlike them. I have that control.<br />
A few days ago someone posted, "stressed turned around is desserts." I had never realized that before and I liked it very much. It gave me a lot to think about.<br />
When we are stressed, often a friend will show up with a hot cup of coffee or tea and a piece of cherry pie or chocolate cake. What a difference that act of kindness makes. Our stress level is suddenly more bearable.<br />
The stress causer may not be gone, but knowing someone cares and that they are there for you, makes a world of difference. So next time you are stressed or know someone who is, reach out and turn it into a time for desserts. A favorite dessert, a cup of coffee or tea takes the stress level way down.<br />
Learn to turn stressed times into times for desserts with a special friend.<br />
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© Copyright 2013 All rights reserved.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-1351456273297139192013-11-12T11:04:00.001-08:002013-11-12T11:09:33.129-08:00A Winter Day I don't write a lot of poetry but once in awhile things just come together. At our December ACW meeting, we share stories about Christmas or winter and I was having a hard time finding anything to write. But, I have learned from our group that we can come up with something a lot faster than we think. All it takes is a word or a phrase to get us started. So I started by listing words that pertained to Christmas or winter. To my delight within an hour I had written 3 pieces and working on another. At least one I will share with the group next month.This is one that I wrote about winter. I'm not a fan of winter or hot summer time. This is alternatives to being out side in the winter cold. I'd rather celebrate winter in other ways. I'm thankful for the Ozark Chapter of American Christian Writers, for all I have learned and what I learn each month. When sharing and critiquing one another's work I find it to be very constructive encouragement. Find a group in your area even if all you do is journal. You may find a writer hidden inside. Hope your day is beautiful and warm.<br />
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A Winter Day<br />
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The wind, the snow, a cold winter day.<br />
Wrapped in a warm fleece blanket.<br />
Sipping a cup of hot coco and marshmallow cream.<br />
Watching the wildlife play in the new fallen snow.<br />
That's the way to celebrate, A Winter Day.<br />
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The wind, the snow, a cold winter day.<br />
Dressed in warmth from head to toe.<br />
A cup of hot tea and homemade cookies.<br />
Our favorite games waiting for us to play.<br />
That's the way to celebrate, A Winter Day.<br />
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The wind, the snow, a cold winter day.<br />
The table covered with a 500 to 1,000 piece puzzle.<br />
Family gathered all around, sorting the puzzle piece<br />
by piece, with lots of laughter and love.<br />
That's the way to celebrate, A Winter Day.<br />
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The wind, the snow, a cold winter day.<br />
A good time to bake. Pecan pie, chocolate chip cookies,<br />
or a loaf of fresh banana bread. The fragrance in the house<br />
is a reminder of a childhood of long, long ago.<br />
That's the way to celebrate, A Winter Day.<br />
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The wind, the snow, a cold winter day.<br />
The fireplace releasing its fire light and heat. Snuggled<br />
back in a recliner, with tissues ready when needed.<br />
Your favorite old movies ready to play.<br />
A beautiful end to this cold winter day.<br />
That's the way to celebrate, A Winter Day.<br />
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(C) Copy write 2013 All rights reserved.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-36614011419622275842013-10-19T18:47:00.001-07:002013-11-14T20:27:49.669-08:00Cartoon Phone Call For a change I want to post a short story about Linda and I when we were little girls. I had not thought about the incident in years and one day I saw a cartoon that brought the memory flooding back into my thought. We have a wonderful God that brings back to our memory those special times if we are willing to listen and open to hearing from him. Go with me as I tell the story of the time mom was on the phone and we decided we could leave home.<br />
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Cartoon Phone Call.<br />
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It is often the little things in life that trigger a memory. In the newspaper yesterday, June 24, 2013, there was a cartoon for Family Circle by Bill Keane. The mom was on the phone, the three kids were looking at her and the little girl said, "It's gonna be a lot longer wait now. Mommy just changed ears."<br />
A priceless cartoon for me and I had to laugh. Linda and I must have been about 7 and our cousin Gordon was at our house playing. His mom, Reaven, called for Gordon to come home. The three of us didn't want to stop playing. We were having fun the the field west of the house. So Linda and I went to ask Mom for permission to go home with Gordon. The problem was, Mom was still on the phone talking to Reaven. We kept asking, but, mom never answered. So we finely said, "Bye Mom, we're going home with Gordon."<br />
We made it to Gordon's house, several blocks away and across the main highway through town. When the three of us went in the house, Reaven was waiting. Gordon's mom said, "You girls are to go straight home"<br />
On the return trip home,we had a lot to think about and worry about. I don't remember what kind of trouble we got into, but, we never pulled that again. You didn't interrupt Mom when she was on the phone and you certainly did not leave home.<br />
That cartoon is now taped to the corner of my computer. A wonderful reminder of a special time in my life, when a lesson was learned, almost 60 years ago.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-48486779168661936952013-09-28T09:23:00.000-07:002013-11-11T07:17:52.643-08:00Personal God As I considered what to post this week, I decided to post what I am currently working on. As I have dealt with issues the past few weeks, I went back to a writing from several years ago. I have found that there is a deeper meaning to a Personal God. When we allow God to deal with our hearts, he gives us a deeper understanding of who he is. I know as time goes on a Personal God will become deeper still. Journey with me as I share what a Personal God meant to my life then, and I share a much deeper understanding for today. God is not only my Personal God, but, he is yours also. Hard to grasp, that the creator of all, is concerned about my life and deals with me on a personal level as he does everyone. God will meet you where you are at, and take you where there is no pain or sorrow, but, peace, joy, and love and give you a life in eternity with him.<br />
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Yesterday I planned to post this, but,ran out of time. We went to the Sight and Sound Theater in Branson to see Joseph, with our youngest son and his dear friend Laurie. What an amazing show. I thought about this writing after the show, it fits so well. It was about forgiveness and our personal heart attitudes when we have been wronged or mistreated. How did we respond, did it bring glory to God?<br />
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Personal God<br />
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One of the hardest things I had to learn was that God is a very Personal God.. When dealing with me concerning any situation, He is concerned with my response, actions, reactions, and my attitude. What was my behavior? That is what I must answer to Him for. In my humanity, I yell, "But I was the one hurt, I am the one that was done wrong. Deal with them, it is not my fault. I want justice, I'll be OK once You deal with them." But God looks into my heart and asks, "Did you glorify Me with your response? I'll deal with them, but in My time, not yours. At this moment, I am concerned about you." That is hard to grasp and most of the time does not seem fair. Yet, I can be comforted that He is concerned just about me. It is hard to take in that God is one on one with each of us, every moment of our lives, God is a Personal God.<br />
I was once approached after a support group meeting by a person who wanted to talk to me. They felt they could trust me and asked if I would help them find a sponsor. They shared with me a major behavioral issue, wanted to know if there was someone in the group that had medical training and would be willing to work the twelve-step program with them. I wanted to run from the room; I did not even want to talk to them. I just sat there stunned. Suddenly, the Lord spoke directly to my heart. I turned to see who else was in the room and had spoken. It was clear, He said, "Brenda, accept them as a person, not their behavioral problems. Their problems are My business not your."<br />
I was able to talk with them and knew someone that had medical training and would help them. They were grateful and were able to connect with a sponsor. I learned a major lesson from the Lord that day; I can accept anyone as a person, without accepting their problems or the sin they have committed. That is God's business. Those are two different issues. Their problems are none of my business. How I treat them is and that is what God will deal with, concerning me. Did my response to them glorify God?<br />
My behavior, my attitude, and my response should always bring glory, honor, and praise to my Lord. The lost are looking to me for acceptance.They want me to acknowledge that they are a person too. Accept a person and let God deal with the sin and problems in their life.<br />
I wrote this several years ago and have worked on it from time to time. Thought I was finished, but the last few weeks, I have taken another look at my Person God. I saw a deeper reality.<br />
When my Lord and Savior was on earth as a human, God did not give Him a free pass, but expected Him to deal with life as I do. When it came to people calling Him names, it was His response to them that mattered most to God. How did He glorify his Father? Did He respond in anger and whine or accept with the grace of love and forgiveness, those that slandered His name and ministry? He showed grace in love and forgiveness for His enemies.<br />
Luke 2:49 And He said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business? KJB "Authorized Version" , Cambridge Edition<br />
How did Christ respond when accused of being evil? He showed grace in love and forgiveness. When He faced satan in the dessert for forty days, His Heavenly Father was more concerned with His response to satan, than He was of the lies satan was telling. Christ knew He must be about His Father's business.<br />
As our Lord and Savior was arrested, tried, beaten, and crucified on the cross, it was His response to those involved that mattered to God. Did He glorify His Heavenly Father? I think we would all respond, "YES" He glorified His Father.<br />
It is impossible for me to keep the Ten Commandments. Only Christ was able to do that. What I can do, respond to others with the grace of love and forgiveness. It is in my response and actions I take towards others that God is most concerned about. That is where God can be glorified and honored. I can respond to evil with evil or hate with hate. I can become bitter, resentful, angry, and unforgiving, but it would not honor God or bring Him glory.<br />
Do I feel cheated when others get discounts and free passes, but I never do? God never promised me entitlements here on earth. My entitlements are awaiting in Heaven. So great is His gifts awaiting me that my minds cannot fathom what is to come.<br />
It is learning to respond to others with the grace of love and forgiveness, that God has poured into my life that shows I have His love in me.We are all sinners, some of us thankfully, recognize that and turned to God for forgiveness and seek a personal relationship with Him.<br />
To a degree I can obey the Ten Commandments. Some are easy or I think they are. What Christ had to deal with as a man, and what I must deal with is my heart attitude. Is It lined up with God? Do I show the same grace of love and forgiveness that my Heavenly Father has shown to me? Our Lord and Savior chose to follow His father, that is something I can do. Love my enemies and those that have hurt me, as my Savior taught me by example. I can have peace in my hearts and say, "It is well with my soul." God's grace will always take me deeper still if I will allow Him to work in my hearts. As I grow in the knowledge and wisdom of God, the Holy Spirit will grow stronger in my life.<br />
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© Copyright 2013 All rights reserved.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-15775133245154886642013-09-18T15:02:00.004-07:002013-09-18T15:02:52.039-07:00The Race Today I want to share about the race of life. Who is in control? Who are you following? We are in a race that ends when Christ returns for his own. We daily fight an enemy that only has destruction for us. Know who you follow and why. I continue my journey with my eyes on God, knowing I cannot face the trials of this life without him. Learn to know what it means to say, "It is well with my soul." Run the race with God leading.<br />
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The Race<br />
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Satan had made a race out of life, to see how many lives he can destroy. Often we are told to stand firm in our faith. Some will say, "I can't." They run from their problems, others deny they even have a problem. A few ill stand and hold onto God. Others stand firm, but, keep God at arms length. Many times we run ahead of God looking for our own answers. We have little patience to wait on God. All we can see is destruction ahead, as we continue in the race that Satan is leading.<br />
Then, one day we hear, "Stand and know that I am God." Stand still /stand firm, doesn't sound much different. When you stand firm, as I have often done, we are rigid and stiff, almost in a stance of arrogance. Grabbing at anything to help us stand. But, when we stand still, we are relaxed and at peace. We feel safe and unafraid. That is when God can step ahead of us and we can see Him working in and through our lives. The struggle to run the race is no longer a burden for us. God is the Victor and the race, we know he has already won.<br />
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Ephesians 6:10-11 KJV<br />
Finelly, my brethern, be strong in the Lord,and in the power of his might. Put on the whole Armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.<br />
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© Copyright 2013 All rights reserved.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-3723257246369027682013-09-06T13:34:00.002-07:002013-09-06T13:34:44.032-07:00The Good and The Bad Alike As I thought about what to post today, I looked at the news. So much bad news is shared but little good news. It seems that the bad behavior and evil doers are rewarded. The Good and The Bad Alike, is what I've chosen to share. Whether we as Christians like it or not, God does pour out his blessings on the good and the bad. Sometimes the bad people actually follow the principles of God better than a Christian does. I have to stop and ask, where do I stand, following Godly principles. I've got some work to do in my life. Go with me as I share why God blesses The Good and The Bad Alike.<br />
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The Good and The Bad Alike<br />
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Often we see only the ugliness of this world and ask. "How could a loving God allow what is happening today?" The homeless number is growing larger everyday and so many are families. With much suffering and no place to lay the heads in safety. Yet, there are others with great riches, that they waste on the pleasures of life. Many of them will say, "I have nothing to spare!"<br />
People with sickness and pain, no doctor to see or even the means to pay for medications they need. Some have great beauty but use it to disgrace, full of arrogance and pride. A child goes unfed, another born with an addiction. Many are used to be thrown away for the sickness of sexual addiction. Sadly, to many times the guilty still walk free on the streets, seeking their next victim. Even worse, to many little ones never have a chance, their lives taken through abortion. Then someone asks in anger, "How could a loving God allow it to happen."<br />
God loves everyone of is! The good and the bad alike. He will not force us to accept and love him. We must surrender our will to him freely, whether we are homeless, wealthy, or in between. The plain, those with great beauty, deserving or not, he loves each one. He knows every heartache and pain, every sin committed throughout the past generations and the generations to come. He is grieved and saddened because of what man has done with his free will, but still, he must allow man to have his own way. God gave each one of us a free will. the freedom to make our own choices. So often we will hear someone say, "I'll do it may way." We throw God away for the pleasure of today. We are born with a deep desire in our hearts to seek for God, but as we take charge of our free will, we ignore the calling God sends our way. The enemy of God is the one we to often seek and we serve. Sin and sickness will drive many to an early grave. Yet, we dare to ask, "How could a loving God allow it to happen."<br />
The blessings God pours out is often unseen. Blessings to the good and the bad alike, for there is no difference made. It is only those that have surrendered their lives to God, that has immeasurable blessings, grace, peace, and freedom. Each one of us, he seeks and beckons to share in his life. He alone holds the true freedom we all seek. A personal relationship in love is what God desires with each one of us.<br />
The good and the bad alike, we all fall short of deserving the forgiveness and love of God, but his grace is always reaching out to the good and the bad alike. He will seek for each one until they take their dying breath. How could a loving God allow what has happened in this world, how could he allow anything else. He desires that not one of is should parish, but live eternally in heaven as his child.<br />
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(C) Copyright 2013 All rights reserved.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-87447670263754137702013-08-26T08:25:00.000-07:002013-08-26T08:25:14.484-07:00He Paid The PriceSorry, I'm just getting back to my blog. When I look at all God has done for me in my life, I find myself very lacking in sharing how amazing his grace truly is. The price our Lord paid to make it possible for us to spend eternity in heaven with him is was unbelievable. All that God has asked in return is that we believe and accept his son as our Lord and Savior. Is life easy with the Lord, no, but we are never alone and he gives a peace that cannot be defined. Why would we expect God to spare our lives of any heartache, when he would not spare his on son, death on the cross. Go with me as I share, He Paid The Price. He paid that price for you and for me. Loving him should be easy.<br />
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He Paid The Price<br />
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We often forget that God is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. He never changes.Take the time to study and build a personal relationship with the Lord. He will reveal his love and amazing grace in our lives, if we will allow him to. You will find peace in times of trouble, calm and assurance in times of fear. Blessings on top of blessings, instead of loneliness and despair.<br />
Sin came into this world because of disobedience. That was the beginning of the problems we have today. Sin called for the punishment of death, to pay the debt that was owed. Because we have a Holy God, a Holy sacrifice was required to pay that debt for each one of us. God's love provided the full payment, with his own sacrifice.<br />
The Lord Jesus Christ, our Savior, was the sacrifice that God required. God became man, born of a virgin, a perfect man, in whom no sin was found. He surrendered his heavenly life to become a man, to face every temptation and heartache that we each go through. Gave up all that he was and allowed the leading of the Holy Spirit, directed by the will of his Heavenly Father, to lead in everything he did. When Jesus time on earth was complete, our Lord was arrested in our place, beaten and whipped for each of us.Every stripe from the whip carried a healing for Gods children. On the cruel wooded cross our Savior suffered and died for every sin committed or that will be committed. The greatest gift of Gods amazing grace, Christ rose from the grave, resurrected from death, winning the victory for you and me. God accepted the work of the cross of His only begotten son, as payment in full for what man had done. Jesus, He Paid The Price, to purchase you and me.<br />
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I Corinthians 6:19-20 KJV<br />
What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God"s.<br />
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(C) Copyright 2013 All rights reserved.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-61516591276747513462013-08-11T19:19:00.000-07:002013-08-11T19:19:00.791-07:00Come Rescue Me As I considered what to post this week, I thought about all the times that the Lord as been there for me. Times he has brought me through a difficulty, a dangerous time, or a time of a broken heart. No matter the situation, he has always been there, waiting for me to call out to Him, "Lord, Come Rescue Me." Knowing I can't face the time ahead alone. Go with me on the journey with the King as he seeks his lost child.<br />
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Come Rescue Me<br />
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The child cries out, "Come Rescue Me." So tiny in size, few even see the heartaches hidden inside. The enemy knew God had great plans for her life. From the day of her birth, the assaults would not cease on the heart of the child. All radiance seems lost, but, deep in her heart, the desire of a rescue still has a spark.<br />
The kings on their horses, for her will they search. The trail often blocked, obstructions unseen. One after another, a king rides away. They simple say, "The little girl is lost, no more to be seen. The searching must end, it has cost me to much."<br />
Then, you see a beautiful white horse, no blemish at all. The King of all kings, rides past the weak kings. "I paid the ransom, to me she has great value and worth. I will find the child."<br />
The enemy band now sees the King of Kings, with the Angels of War at His side. In a great panic, one by one they begin to flee. Not one will remain.<br />
The child wants to cry out to Him, but, then, seeing the King in all His glory, she hides. Dressed in the dirt of her past, revealing her life. Bowing her head in shame because of her guilt. "I was not wanted except for abuse. My life has no value or worth. Why, would He come to rescue me?" Yet, He sought after her, to give her new life.<br />
To the angels the King said. "Take my child to the palace. She is to share in all that I have. Prepare a great banquet, a feast to behold. Gather the gowns, fit for a queen, and a crown to be placed on her head. But, the very first thing, she is to be bathed in love, washed whiter than snow. She is to be washed in the blood of My Son."<br />
"Yes my child, for you I have come. I'm taking you home. You are the bride of My Son."<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8811682136063068540.post-11596527520143661152013-08-05T08:18:00.000-07:002013-08-05T08:23:05.947-07:00I Stumbled Agin It seems all I ever do is stumble. Mistakes made everyday. I realize most of us feel we fail in some way each day. So here is a poem I wrote, I Stumbled Again. It is probably the shorted thing I have posted but, that doesn't matter. I share what God lays on my heart, not what I think will get the attention. He has his reason for each post and I just need to trust Him.<br />
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I Stumbled Again<br />
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"Lord, I stumbled again today." I struggle, and try, and fail all along the way. My day began with prayer, for His guidance and grace, as I went on my way "Lord, I thought I was doing my best. Yet, I failed again today. Seems I never will learn to do life your way. Why, do I stumble Lord, so often along the way?"<br />
Suddenly, I hear the Lord speak, "I don't remember your stumbling today. You sought me, for your guidance and needs, in our quiet time together, as you started your day. I've been beside you all along the way. You may seem to have stumbled, but, you turned and sought for me all along the way. Don't you know, I have forgiven and don't remember the struggles along the way."<br />
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(C) Copyright 2013 All rights reserved.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17954160148050118668noreply@blogger.com0