Mary Did You Know?

And Mary said, "Behold, I am a handmaiden of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word."
~ Luke 1:38

And Mary said, "My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour."
~ Luke 1:46-47



An angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins."  All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: "Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call him Immanuel" (which means, God with us).
~ Matthew 1:20-23

And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear.  And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord."
~ Luke 2:10-11

This baby was born...

Thus it is written, that the Christ (messiah) should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all the nations.
~ Luke 24:46

... to die for our sins.

Let us remember that the Son of God left heaven and became man so that he could shed his blood and give his life so that we may have forgiveness of sins and life eternal. He has given us the greatest gift of all ~ salvation though faith.

 

Glory to God

May you have a blessed Christmas as you rejoice in the celebration of the first coming of Jesus
and await His return.

Make Room

"If Jesus were born one thousand times in Bethlehem and not in me, then I would still be lost. There was no room in the inn for Him. Is there room in your heart for Him?"
~ Corrie Ten Boom

And she gave birth to her firstborn son
and wrapped him in a manger,

because there was no place for them in the inn.

Luke 2:7

All this took place to fulfill
what the Lord had spoken by the prophet:

"Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,

and they shall call his name Immanual
(which means, God with us).

~ Matthew 1:22-23

And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.”

~ Luke 2:9-12

 

For God so loved the world,

that He gave His only begotten Son,

that whosoever believeth in Him

should not perish but have everlasting life.

~ John 3:16

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.

 No one comes to the Father except through me.

~ John 14:6

 If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord
and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead,
you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified,
and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.
For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him
will not be put to shame.”
For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek;
for the same Lord is Lord of all,
bestowing his riches on all who call on him.
For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

~ Romans 10:9-13

For by grace you have been saved through faith.
And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God,
not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

~ Ephesians 2:8-9

For the grace of God has appeared,
 bringing salvation for all people,
training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions,
and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives
in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope,
the appearing of the glory of our great
God and Savior Jesus Christ,
who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness
and to purify for himself a people for his own possession
who are zealous for good works.

~ Titus 2:11-14

May you make room in your heart for Jesus and receive His grace.

The Night Before Christmas

Empty manger, perfect stranger, about to be born
Into darkness, sadness, desperate madness, creation so torn
We were so lost on earth, no peace, no worth, no way to escape
In fear, no faith, no hope, no grace, and no light
But that was the night before Christmas

Warm hay, cold sweat, a mother, not yet,
praying Godspeed the dawn
She looks to her man, holding her hand,
they wonder how long
And the shepherds, wise men come to find them,
and bow to a king
One star above shining on love, so bright it lit up
the night before Christmas

And the world didn’t know mercy was meek and so mild
And the world didn’t know that truth was as pure as a child
The night before Christmas
The night before Christmas

And the world didn’t know, redemption was sweet and so strong
And the world didn’t know salvation was writing a song
The night before Christmas
The night before Christmas
The night before Christmas

Empty manger, perfect stranger, about to be born

Lyrics by: Stephen Brown, Chuck Butler & Regie Hamm
Performed by: Brandon Heath



Because Jesus became flesh and sacrificed His life...

...light shone into the darkness, sadness transforms into joy, the desperate are comforted, the broken are mended, and the lost are found.

In Him...

...we find peace, worth, an escape

Through Him

....we find faith, hope, and grace

Because of Him we now know...

... how gentle His mercies and how sweet and strong His redemption.

You are invited!

You are cordially invited to
A BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION!!!

Guest of Honor: Jesus Christ

Date: Every day. Traditionally, December 25 but He's always around, so the date is flexible.

Time: Whenever you're ready. (Please don't be late, though, or you'll miss out on all the fun!)

Place: In your heart . . . He'll meet you there. (You'll hear Him knock.)

Attire: Come as you are . . . grubbies are okay. He'll be washing our clothes anyway. He said something about new white robes and crowns for everyone who stays till the last.

Tickets: Admission is free. He's already paid for everyone - you wouldn't have been able to afford it anyway. It cost Him everything He had, but you do need to accept the ticket!!Refreshments: New wine, bread, and a far-out drink He calls "Living Water," followed by a supper that promises to be out of this world!

Gift Suggestions: Your life. He's one of those people who already has everything else. (He's very generous in return though. Just wait until you see what He has for you!)

Entertainment: Joy, Peace, Truth, Light, Life, Love, Real Happiness, Communion with God, Forgiveness, Miracles, Healing, Power, Eternity in Paradise, Contentment, and much more! (All "G" rated, so bring your family and friends.)

R.S.V.P. Very Important! He must know ahead so He can reserve a spot for you at the table. Also, He's keeping a list of His friends for future reference. He calls it the "Lamb's Book of Life."

Party being given by His Kids (that's us!!)! Hope to see you there!

Bearing Precious Seed

"Does it not thrill our hearts to realize that we do not go forward in our own strength! Think of it, God Himself is with us for our Captain! The Lord of Hosts is present in Person on every field of conflict, to encourage us and fight with us. With such a Leader, who never lost a battle, or deserted a soldier in distress, or failed to get through the needed supplies, who would not accept the challenge to go forward, "bearing precious seed"? 

~ John Stam, missionary and martyr who followed God's leading to China to bear precious seed
(excerpted from The Triumph of John and Betty Stam)

Recently, I found the biography of John and Betty Stam in my church library. While the book is tattered and pages are coming loose from the binding of this book that was published in 1935, the lessons are timeless and inspiring. May we each be willing to go forth in the name of the Lord bearing precious seed!

Extravagant Worship

Okay, I so missed Melodic Monday! But would you settle for Tuesday Tunes? Sorry for the delay... when you hear singer/songwriter Vicky Beeching sing "Extravagant Worship" you will agree that it was worth the wait! ;0)

Attitude of Gratitude

Don't you just love when God is teaching you a lesson and He begins connecting the dots for you?

During Sunday School our class was reading and studying Hebrews 13. Verse 15 really resonated with me.

Let us, then, always offer praise to God as our sacrifice through Jesus, which is the offering presented by lips that confess him as Lord.  Hebrews 13:15

Always. Offer praise no matter the situation. I struggle with that ~ in thought and in practice. Is that even possible?

Fast forward to the Sunday Sermon. Pastor Joel was beginning a series of Advent sermons on "How to Have a Joy-Filled Christmas." The first sermon discussed choosing to be thankful. He explained that there is a difference between being thankful in every situation versus being thankful for every situation. I had never thought of it like that before.

Pastor Joel also shared with us the Thankfulness Scale (by Lyle Welty):

Level 1 ~ Complaining and grumbling

Level 2 ~ Rarely Give Thanks

Level 3 ~ Thanking God for obvious physical and spiritual blessings

Level 4 ~ Giving thanks in every situation and circumstance

Level 5 ~ Thanking God for who and what He is. In other words, loving the giver more than the gift.

That really gave me pause...

Where is my heart? Is it thankful or grumbling? Do I truly have an attitude of gratitude?

In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Be anxious for nothing but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

It is God's will for us to give thanks in everything! It is a command, not a suggestion (thanks for the reminder, Pastor J). Can I do it in my own strength? Uhhhh, no. But with Christ all things are possible!

Abba Father,
Create in me a grateful heart that gives thanks in all things. Help me to hold my thoughts captive to Christ. Let the words of my mouth adore you and the work of my hands bring you glory and be an offering of thanksgiving. May I give you praise continually, for you are the Most High God, and are worthy of our praise! Hallelujah!

Sumptious Slow Cooker: Cowboy Stew

Can't remember how we got that name for this dish. Probably my husband. He's the one that hands out all the nicknames for kids, pets and dinner dishes (okay, I have one too... don't ask). And it's not really prepared over a campfire (at least not at my house), but in a slow cooker. Oh, how I love my slow cooker! If you don't have one, consider putting it on your Christmas wish list. If you have one and it's collecting dusk on some obscure shelf, reacquaint yourself! Slow cookers are our friends, ladies! I love to use mine on days that we have a practice, lesson or rehearsal, etc. in the afternoon. I do the food prep in the morning, throw it in the slow cooker and... voila! A tasty, timely meal when we arrive home (and the house smells fabulous when you walk in the door). :0)

The cowboy stew is easy! I fry a pound or two of ground beef or ground turkey in a pan (be sure to drain the fat drippings). Then cut up 6-10 potatoes (I use both the white and red, depends on the size) and place them in the slow cooker with the cooked ground beef. I then put in 2 cans of diced tomatoes, 2 cans of mushrooms, a can of corn niblets, a can of red kidney beans, and a can of pinto beans (I drain the cans of beans and corn, but I do not drain the cans of diced tomatoes). Then I add a packet of onion soup mix. I have also used our steak seasoning sometimes. I let it cook on low for 5-6 hours or until the potatoes are tender. You can have shredded cheese on the table to sprinkle on top when you serve. We love to make cornbread muffins to accompany our cowboy stew. I hope you enjoy this as much as we do! Bon Appetit!

Melodic Monday: Your Hands

Your Hands By JJ Heller

I have unanswered prayers

I have trouble I wish wasn't there

 I have asked a thousand ways

That You would take my pain away

That You would take my pain away

I am trying to understand

How to walk this weary land

Make straight the paths that crooked lie

Oh Lord, before these feet of mine

Oh Lord, before these feet of mine

When my world is shaking

Heaven stands

When my heart is breaking

I never leave Your hands

When You walked upon the Earth

You healed the broken, lost, and hurt

I know You hate to see me cry

One day You will set all things right

Yea, one day You will set all things right

When my world is shaking

Heaven stands

When my heart is breaking

I never leave Your hands

Your hands

Your hands that shape the world

Are holding me, they hold me still

Your hands that shape the world

Are holding me, they hold me still

When my world is shaking

Heaven stands

When my heart is breaking

I never leave You...

When my world is shaking

Heaven stands

When my heart is breaking

I never leave...

I never leave Your hands

For those of you that are weary, broken-hearted, trying to stand in a world that is shaking...

you have never left His hands.

Servant's Heart Sunday: OCC Prayer Guide

" Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving." 1 Colossians 4:2

"Every shoe box offers an opportunity to share the Good News of the Savior with a hurting child."
Franklin Graham, President, Samaritan's Purse

The shoeboxes have been stuffed and they are being prepared for their world-wide destinations, but you can continue to  partner with Operation Christmas Child... in prayer!

I was at a Christian bookstore this weekend getting a few more items for our shoeboxes when I saw a stack of bookmarks from Samaritan's Purse. Imprinted on the bookmark was a weekly prayer guide for families that are willing to cover this important ministry in prayer. What an amazing opportunity for you and your family to impact children all around the world while preparing your hearts to cebrate the birth and first coming of our Messiah. Think of all God can do through these simple gifts and prayers that are offered up in His name. If we are only obedient to His call to give and to intercede, He can pour out His love and grace through us and fill not only shoeboxes but searching hearts! Here are the suggestions for daily intercession:

Sunday: Pray for the children and their families who receive a shoe box gift, that hearts will be opened to the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Monday: Most children who receive shoe box gifts live in desperate circumstances. Pray that God will meet their physical, emotional, and spiritual nees.

Tuesday: Pray for our ministry partners in countries around the world, especially that the shoe box gifts and follow-up discipleship programs will be effective evangelism tools.

Wednesday: Pray that doors will be opened, so the Good News can be shared in countries that are not receptive to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Thursday: Pray for those who fill shoe box gifts this year, especiall for children, that they will see that it is truly more blessed to give than to receive.

Friday: Pray for those involved in collecting, processing, transporting, and delivering shoe box gifts, including the tens of thousands of volunteers.

Saturday: Pray for Samaritan's Purse staff located throughout the world  as they handle the logistics of Operation Christmas Child.

For more information about this God-honoring ministry go to: Samaritans Purse ~ Operation Christmas Child

Needing a night-light

I wanted to share a story I had written for my children when they were wee ones...

This is a story about the transforming power of God's love for us! With three children that God has entrusted into my care, our family has had its share of late night "sightings" of "dino, crocs and bugs" and a variety of other imaginary creatures! It is not unusual for children to have a fear of the dark. And any parent can attest to the vivid imaginations of our precious little ones! So, when it's lights out and things begin to go bump in the night, what kind of comfort and security can we give to our children? We can lead them to the Lord... and the refuge only He can provide! As our children come to know Jesus as their Saviour, Shepherd and Refuge, they will be filled with a spirit of peace, power and love that will last not only through the dark of the night, but for a lifetime. The Bible declares that Jesus is the light of the world. Is there any better night-light?

Molly and the Not So Magic Wand

Ching, chang. Ching, ching, chang. Chingity, chang, chang! Molly wrinkled her face and stuck her tongue out to the side, as she sh- sh- shook her piggy bank and sent those coins for a crazy ride.

Molly looked closely at the money as it clinked down to the floor. She could not tell which ones were less and which ones were more.

It did not matter though, she was sure she had enough!
Molly tucked them away in her pretty pink purse, along with all her other little girl stuff.

Off to the store, in a minivan with mother. Molly was good the entire trip. Not once did she fight with her brother.

As they cruised along, she imagined her wand while squeezing her eyes shut tight. It was shiny and full of glitter. Oh, it was quite a sight!

Click, clack. Click, click, clack. Clickity, clack, clack!

As she joyfully danced on down the aisle, Molly tapped out a happy sound. Searching high and searching low, Molly looked around and around.

There it was! It caught her eye! She stopped and stared and said, "Oh my."
"There must be many things this magic wand can do!" But Molly only needed one big wish to come true.

She wished to make all the scary things go away and disappear. Like the croc underneath her canopy bed, who often came too near!

Of course, there was the dinosaur, on the other side of the closet door. And the creepy, crawly, mega-bug that skittled across the floor and the rug.

Molly already knew the magic words to say as she waved her wand round and round and chased her worries away.

Molly peered around in the dark for the dino, the croc, and the bug. She held on tightly to her magic wand, as she peeked underneath the rug.

"Twinkle, twinkle, magic wand. Bippity, boppity, boo. I'm not afraid of the dark anymore. How about you?"
She looked and looked at her magic wand and soon began to cry. It wasn't working very well and she was not sure just why!

She was still very worried about the dino, the croc and the bug. Just then, in came mom and gave Molly a very big hug.

"Remember, Molly... God is always here. He knows our hearts, our minds, our thoughts and He knows each and everyone of our fears. Pray to Him, Molly. And you will feel Him near."

Molly folded her hands together and prayed from deep within her heart, "Dear Lord, please keep me safe and may we never, ever be apart. Let me know you are always near and that you can take away any fear."

Molly smiled a big, warm smile, as she hugged her mom good-night. She said one last prayer as she turned out all the lights.

"Twinkle, twinkle, the Lord is my light. No magic wand will do! I'm not afraid of the dark anymore, because I can come to You. You are my strength and courage, Lord. No magic words will do! I'll put my trust and faith evermore in the light of the world ~ that's You!"

Scripture Verses of Comfort, Light & Hope:

The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. Deuteronomy 33:27
Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and He will say: Here I am. Isaiah 58:9

The God who said, "Out of darkness the light shall shine!" is the same God who made the light shine in our hearts. 2 Corinthians 4:6

For the Spirit that God has given us does not make us timid; instead, His spirit fills us with power, love and self-control. 2 Timothy 1:7

I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears. Psalm 34:4

He tends His flock like a shepherd. He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart. Isaiah 40:11

Then the people brought their little children to Jesus so that He could put His hands on them and pray for them... Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me." Matthew 19:13-14

Do not be afraid ~ I am with you! I am your God, let nothing terrify you. I will make you strong and help you; I will protect you and save you. Isaiah 41:10

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? Psalm 27:1

Jesus said to the people, "I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't be stumbling through the darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life." John 8:12

So... even though I wrote the story for my kids... I kinda could relate to Molly, too (guess you probably already figured that part out)! Since becoming a wife and mom, I have struggled over the years with fear and worry. Doctors called it post-partum depression & anxiety. I just call it plain awful. Dinos, crocs & bugs... not so much. But lots of other fears, real and imagined have lurked and loomed. It is then that I have to remember to shape those worries into prayers. It is when I run to the Lord and let His light shine on my fears that they simply disappear.

Melodic Monday: More Like Falling In Love

"I meet people all the time that are convinced that because of a handicap, or a weakness, or a failure, or something they struggle with ~ any kind of brokenness or imperfection makes people afraid that they can't ever do anything significant for the Kingdom of God... that they are somehow disqualified. I believe that the opposite is true. It is our weaknesses that hyper-qualify us. If you feel like that is you ~ then I would say, expect great things because God's grace flows most freely through the broken places...

I believe God loves to use weak and broken people because He gets the most glory... and also because weak and broken people are uniquely equipped to bring mercy to other broken people." Jason Gray



Howdy to all you Bloom & Grow visitors and happy "Melodic Monday!" I wanted to share the song, "More Like Falling In Love" by Jason Gray. Love the song. Touched by his humble spirit. Inspired by his willingness to be used by God. Jason has struggled with a speech impediment, stuttering, since he was a boy. He says his stammer has turned out to be gift. God called him and he answered, despite his fears and perceived weakness.
There is so much more I would love to say about this song (which he did get some flack for) but I have a sink full, and I do mean full (overflowing would be a more accurate description), of dishes, dogs that need to go out, kids that need tucking in and a lingering cold that has plumb-tuckered me out! While you're listening I will be taking a hot bath, sipping some tea and catching some much needed zzzzzzzzzz... right after the dishes, dogs, and darlings are squared away, that is. ;0) Be blessed!

Giving thanks... for fleas!

A few summers ago, my husband and I had to make good on a promise we had made... you know, the puppy promise. The one the kiddos don't forget and keep reminding you of a bazillion times (is that a real word or a real number?) until you finally fulfill it and end up with more four-legged, furry fun than you could have imagined or bargained for.

Meet Tucker ~ our first, and eldest adopted dog (yes, the kids bambuzzled me into getting another puppy, but that is another story for yet another day). His former owner, a college student, had completed her degree and was heading off to graduate school in the Netherlands. Since he wasn't bilingual and needed more time than she would have to give, she decided to search for a loving family and home. That's where we came in. He definitely had the "cuteness factor" working for him in his mug shot hanging on the community bulletin board at the local health food store. As you can imagine he was even harder to resist when he was licking each and every inch of my begging and pleading children. What could I say? What could I do? So, of course, I agreed to bring him home. But I never invited the fleas!

We tried several remedies. Our first attempt was an all-natural flea & tick spray made with all kinds of yummy smelling essential oils. Loved the aroma. Apparently, so did the fleas! So, we tried several over-the-counter treatments. The fleas were not impressed and neither was I. Then we got serious about this battle we were waging and consulted the vet. Throughout the process, the fleas decided it would not break protocol if they ventured beyond the family canine. I had flea bites covering my feet, ankles, and legs. Did I mention that my body goes into overdrive when an insect of any kind bites me? Needless to say, I was not happy! Love the dog, but the fleas... not so much. I grumbled, I scratched, I complained, I whined. I was definitely not giving thanks in this situation.

During the flea wars, I was reading aloud to our kiddos about Corrie ten Boom from the "Heroes of the Faith" series. We read how Corrie and her family were filled with compassion and love for the persecuted Jews during World War II. By building a secret room, a hiding place, they were able to rescue many Jews. But they did so at the risk of their own lives. While they were able to get many Jews to safety, they were eventually caught and arrested. They were imprisoned and eventually were taken to Ravensbruck, a notorious concentration camp in Germany. As we continued to read, I was so touched by the simple, sweet faith of Corrie and her frail sister, Betsie. Their bed was a hard wooden platform sprinkled with straw. They shared the platform with seven other women... and fleas. Lots of them. Corrie slapped at the fleas as they bit her repeatedly. She must have scowled too, because her sister reminded her of Scripture, "be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." Corrie remarked how beautiful the verse was. Then her sister repeated, "give thanks in all circumstances." Corrie asked if she was supposed to be grateful for the fleas. Betsie answered her with a gentle yes. Corrie was convicted. God wanted her to have a thankful heart despite their desperate situation. Corrie went to sleep thanking God for the fleas. Corrie and Betsie refused to dwell on their dire circumstances. After long days of grueling work and little food, the sisters would read aloud from their Bible (which had been smuggled in) every night in Barracks #28. Gradually, women began to gather around to hear more. They shared the gospel freely with hundreds of women. Of course, if they were caught conducting these "meetings" they would be severely punished. Strangely, the guards rarely came into their building. They later overheard guards remarking that they would not go into this barrack due to the flea infestation! Corrie praised the Lord for the fleas, this time with all her heart!

I was completely humbled by this story. And convicted. My problem is not the fleas, or any other trial, small or big, that comes into my life. The issue is my heart. And ungratefulness. And doubt. I can totally relate to the man in Scripture that cried, "I believe, help me with my unbelief!" I am so encouraged and edified by the shared lives and testimonies of saints, such as Corrie ten Boom and her sister, Betsie. I am thankful for the example of Betsie's simple, sweet, child-like faith. I am grateful that Corrie was so transparent and willingly shared her faith struggles. I am inspired by her courage and her willingness to be broken for the Lord. I love that she allowed the Lord to perfect her faith. I love that she gave God the glory. Corrie and Betsie were women with a heart for God... in all circumstances. That is the kind of heart I want to have.

A Simple Prayer

One of my favorite Bibles is one that was given to me by an Army Chaplain while our family was stationed overseas in Belgium. It is called Seasons of Reflection. It is an NIV Bible with 365 daily readings. Each day there are Scripture readings from the Old Testament, the New Testament and finally, verses from Psalms or Proverbs. It is a wonderful way to follow a one-year plan to read the entire Bible... and keep those that are prone to wander (like me) on track. As I was opening my Bible for today's reading, I came across a prayer that is printed in the front of the book. I wanted to share it:

Almighty God,

Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

grant, we pray,

that we might be grounded and settled

in your truth

by the coming of your Holy Spirit

into our hearts.

What we do not know,

reveal to us;

What is lacking within us,

make complete;

That which we do know,

confirm in us;

And keep us blameless in your service,

through Jesus Christ our Lord.

~the prayer of an early Christian

Beautiful ~ the sentiment of this believer's heart and the simplicity of the prayer. This is my prayer for you and me. :0)

A Call To Prayer: Reclaiming America

Calling all moms, calling all moms! This is a call to prayer. We need prayer warriors prepared to engage. Let's mobilize moms everywhere to put on the mighty armor of God and intercede for our nation and our people! Yes, like you, I am encouraged by the progress we made on November 2 in this historic election! But there is no time to rest. There is much work to be done! We must be laboring in prayer for America. The battle has just begun. We have reclaimed ground that had been surrendered but there are still many strongholds that must be breached and overcome.

Does this seem overwhelming to you? It often does to me. Sometimes I feel like a weary warrior instead of an overcomer who is victorious in the Lord. But as we lift up our intercessory prayers we will be renewed and strengthened by the Spirit of our Holy God. I know the demands are many, and the battles numerous ~ but we must stand firm in the Lord and endure in faith.

While there are many things of importance that require our attention daily in the earthly realm, an even greater struggle is occuring in the spiritual realm. There is a war waging in the heavenlies. And as the return of our Messiah nears, it will only intensify. This is why our prayers are needed and necessary.

Please join me in praying for America...

Forgive us, Abba Father, for the many sins we have committed individually and as a nation. Forgive us for the countless ways we have grieved you. May we become a humble people with contrite hearts. Let our hearts be softened and willing to receive your truths and your chastisement. Let us rebuild our nation and our lives upon the rock of our salvation and choose you as our cornerstone. I pray that we would be a set apart people longing to do your will! May we bring you glory and honor as we surrender our lives to you and declare you to be our Saviour and King. Let the words of our mouths adore you and sing your praises. As we abide in you, may we be filled with your Holy Spirit and bear good fruit. Help us to stand firm and endure in faith as we return to your precepts and ancient paths. Thank you Lord for your mercy, love, and grace. Amen.

Thank you for standing in the gap with me! Remember, don't go onto the battlefield unarmed. The Word of God is the sword that the Spirit gives us!

"Thus says the Lord, 'Stand by the ways and see and ask for the
ancient paths, where the good way is and walk in it, and you shall find rest for your souls.' " Jeremiah 6:16

"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Ephesians 6:12

"Finally, build up your strength in union with the Lord and by means of his mighty power. Put on all the armor that God give you, so that you will be able to stand up against the Devil's evil tricks." Ephesians 6:10-11

"So put on God's armor now! Then when the evil day comes, you will be able to resist the enemy's attacks; and after fighting to the end, you will still hold your ground." Ephesians 6:13

"Do all this in prayer, asking for God's help. Pray on every occasion, as the Spirit leads. For this reason keep alert and never give up; pray always for all of God's people." Ephesians 6:18

Faith of our Fathers

The faith of our forefathers. Let us be reminded of their vision for America and the faith that guided them. May their words convict us and compel us to reclaim surrendered ground and restore our foundation built upon God and His precepts.

Election Eve: America at a Crossroad

It is the eve of the elections and I can't help but think about the future of our nation. We are at a crossroad. Tomorrow holds a great deal of importance as we cast our votes. Many liberals will be voted out and replaced by more conservative candidates who recognize the importance of the Constitution and that we were established as a Democratic Republic. But is it enough? Is there more required of us?

Please don't misunderstand, I am so grateful for the men and women that have sacrificed to defend this country, our liberty and our right to vote. I was raised in a very patriotic family and consider myself a patriot! Also, I believe it is my duty to be an informed and educated voter. Over the last three years I have felt like a part-time activist in addition to being a full-time mom! I have written lots of emails and made many calls to my representatives at both the state and federal level. I have spent hours researching issues and candidates. I have tried to make my voice heard and have it say something meaningful... as have many other Americans! But is it enough?

What if our problems as a nation lie so much deeper than our government, politicians and policies? What if it is more than a vote or rally can fix? What if the root of America's struggle is a spiritual problem?

Is it surprising that our government, on all levels, has been compromised when we have allowed God to be removed from our classrooms, our courtrooms, and our town squares? Our laws protect the "rights" of convicted felons and illegal immigrants while allowing the death of millions of innocent unborn children. Our news headlines highlight and point out the obvious. Our nation is plagued by problems not only in our government, but also in our society. God is unchanging... the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow (Hebrews 13:8). It is our nation that has changed course over time. When we refuse to use God's precepts as our compass we wander far.

The only true hope and change is through our Lord Jesus Christ.

I believe that God has blessed America beyond measure througout our history because our Founding Fathers and the American people sought our Heavenly Father as they purposed to create a nation built on His firm foundation and precepts. They understood that without Him, America would not truely be free.

"In the beginning of the contest with Britain, when we were sensible of danger, we had daily prayers in this room for Divine protection. Our prayers, Sir, were heard, and they were graciously answered... do we imagine we no longer need His assistance?
~ Benjamin Franklin

"We have no government armed with power capable of contending with human passions unbridled by morality and religion. Avarice, ambition, revenge, or gallantry, would break the strongest cords of our Constitution as a whale through a net. Our Constitution was made only for a moral & religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other."
~ John Adams

"Let us live no more to ourselves, but to Him who loved us, and gave Himself to die for us."
~ Roger Sherman

In the Merriam-Webster dictionary, crossroad is defined as a crucial point, especially where a decision must be made. America is at a crossroad. Yes, there are important political decisions to be made. But isn't there an even greater decision to be made? Will we return to our roots as a Christian nation? Will we honor and choose God above all else? Will we look daily to Him to chart our course as a nation and as individuals?

May we the people seek God fully and make Him our cornerstone as did our forefathers. Let us purpose in our hearts to build our lives, our marriages, our homes, our government, and our nation upon His foundation. True healing and restoration is possible only through the Lord.

"... if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and then turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14

Foundational Thoughts

Just wanted to share some thoughts from our founding fathers during this defining time in our American history. Knowledge can be obtained by any man, true wisdom only comes from the Lord...

"Reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principles."

George Washington

"We have no government armed with power capable of contending with human passions unbridled by morality and religion. Avarice, ambition, revenge, or gallantry, would break the strongest cords of our Constitution as a whale goes through a net. Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the goverment of any other."
~John Adams

"No truth is more evident to my mind than that the Christian religion must be the basis of any government intended to secure the rights and privileges of a free people.

~Noah Webster

Praying for our nation...

Servant's Heart Sunday: Love in a Shoebox

Can you fill a shoebox with love? The answer is yes ~ 8 million times! Last year over eight million care packages were delivered. Since 1993, over 130 countries have received these boxes filled with love & hope, reaching millions of kids each year. Operation Christmas Child is a ministry of Samaritan's Purse. It has one mission: to demonstate God's love to needy children around the world and to share the Good News of Jesus Christ. While you may not be called to be an overseas missionary, you and your family have an amazing opportunity to respond to the Great Commission and reach every corner of the world with the love of our Saviour! So how do you get started? I'm so glad you asked!

1. Find an empty shoe box or a small plastic container (Rubbermaid, Sterilite, etc.) A missionary told my prayer partner that the plastic containers are reused by the families it to haul water and for a variety of other uses!

2. Determine whether your gift box will be for a boy or girl and the child's age category: 2-4, 5-9, or 10-14. You can download labels from the Samaritan's Purse website.

3. Fill with gifts & love

4. Please include a $7 donation or more for each shoebox you prepare to help cover shipping and other project costs. You can give online through the EZ-Give method, or you can use a donation envelope.

5. Place a rubber band around each closed shoe box and drop off at the Collection Center nearest you during National Collection Week (November 15-22, 2010) or you can send your shoe box gift to: Samaritan's Purse, 801 Bamboo Road, Boone, NC 28607

6. Be sure to pray for the child that will receive your box!

Gift Suggestions

School Supplies: pens, pencils and sharpeners, crayons or markers, stamps and ink pad sets, writing pads or paper, solar calculators, coloring and picture books, etc.

Toys: small cars, balls, dolls, stuffed animals, kazoos, harmonicas, yo-yos, jump ropes, small Etch A Sketch, Slinky, etc.

Hygiene items: toothbrush, toothpaste, bar soap (in a ziplock bag), comb, washcloth

Other: hard candy and lollipops, mints, gum (please place all candy in a ziploc bag), t-shirts, socks, ball caps, sunglasses, hair clips, toy jewelry, watches, flashlights with batteries.

A Personal Note: You may enclose a note to the child and a photo of yourself or your family. If you include your name and address, the child may write back! We discoved to our delight that God directed one of our boxes to Burkina Faso. The girl that received it wrote us a lovely letter in French (her native tongue). We were able to use an online translation website to convert her letter into English. We were blessed beyond measure to have this treasured correspondence from this sweet young lady! We sent several more packages directly to this girl's family and eventually received a photo of her. This was an amazing lesson to our three children as they searched our world globe for the country of Burkina Faso (in Africa). We marveled at just how far God's love had reached... across countries, across oceans, across continents and around the world!

Remember, there is power in a simple gift! For more information about this ministry opportunity go to http://www.samaritanspurse.org/

"Your gift of love may be the door God uses to open a child's heart to Jesus Christ."

Franklin Graham, President, Samaritan's Purse

Word-filled Wednesday: Thirsting for God

Happy Word-filled Wednesday! I took this photo at a state park located near my childhood home in Maryland. Adjacent to this stream is a beautiful waterfall. There is something so soothing to me about being around or in the water. Is it becauses it reminds me of our Creator and the only source of the living water ~ Jesus, our Messiah? I thirst for him and await His return!

"As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God." Psalm 42:1-2

"If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, 'Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.' "  John 7:37-38 

The purpose of Word-filled Wednesday is to share God’s Word (no famous quotes or other literature — only the beautiful word of our Heavenly Father) through photos and a bible verse! Please be sure to visit the home of Word-filled Wednesday at The 160 Acre Woods. Also, to enjoy many inspiring verses & photos, be sure to visit today's WFW host, Penny @ www.pennyraine.com/blog

Have a joy-filled day! Blessings to you all~

Melodic Monday: God Shaped Hole

This youtube video was created by Diane M Faller

God Shaped Hole

Performed by: Plumb

Lyrics: Tiffany Lee Arbuckle, Wayne Kirkpatrick

Every point of view has another angle

And every angle has its merit

But it all comes down to faith

That's the way I see it

You can say that love is not divine and

You can say that life is not eternal

"All we have is now"

But I don't believe it

There's a God-shaped hole in all of us

And the restless soul is searching

There's a God-shaped hole in all of us

And it's a void only He can fill

Does the world seem grey with empty longing

Wearing every shade of cynical

And do you ever feel that

There is something missing?

There's a God-shaped hole in all of us

And the restless soul is searching

There's a God-shaped hole in all of us

And it's a void only He can fill

That's my point of view...

There's a God-shaped hole in all of us

And the restless soul is searching

There's a God-shaped hole in all of us

And it's a void

Only he can fill

Only he can fill

Thats my point of view

Thats my point of view, yeah

"The idea for this song was taken from a conversation two people once had regarding C.S. Lewis' quote, 'Emptiness is at the center of my being.' Augustine said it along this line, 'We have a God-shaped vacuum in us that can only be filled by Him.' There is in each of us a void, a missing part, that can only be filled by the completeness of Christ - nothing else. You can argue against this, but the true answer is that everything we try always ends up being only a temporary fix. God's love, on the other hand, is eternal, never-ending, and completely unconditional." ~ Tiffany Arbuckle (Plumb)

~ Tiffany Arbuckle (Plumb)

Word-filled Wednesday: Teach me!

I found this photo posted on Photobucket and wanted to share its beauty. The scripture verse resonated with me and this picture stirred my soul. How wonderful that our Heavenly Father desires to teach us His ways and lead us in His truths. He will direct or paths and provide the light as we make our way! Truly, He is our salvation and is with us each step of the way on our journey. Oh, that I may have a teachable spirit, Adonai, and that I would rejoice in your truths! Enable me to endure in faith and walk daily with you.

"Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth and teach me for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long."   Psalm 25: 4-5 ESV

Be sure to visit today's WFW host, Susan at Forever His for more inspirational verses and photos.
Also, find additional encouragement at The 160 Acre Woods with Amydeanne ~ the home of Word-Filled Wednesday

Always and Forever

Always and forever. Our Lord promises that if you belong to Him, He will never leave nor forsake you. He is a promise-keeper. A covenant God. I find so much comfort in who He is and the promises he makes to His children. While life's circumstances are constantly changing, there is one thing that always remains the same - God's character and His Word. Yesterday, today and forever, God is the Unchanging One. Unlike me, He is not fickle, or wavering, or inconsistent. He does not leave a trail of broken promises. He is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end... and everything in between. He is always there. His love is perfect, complete and eternal. As we repent and put our faith in Him, we enter into the most beautiful of covenants. He gave His life for us. He is our redemption, our hope, our Saviour. This is the ultimate love story. Forever and always.

Melodic Monday: Emmanuel ~ God with Us

Servant's Heart Sunday: Birthday Blessings

Last week we celebrated the birth and life of my eldest daughter. As my husband and I reminisced and recalled fond memories, we marvelled at how quickly our little girl has transformed into a young woman. We rejoiced and celebrated this child that God has entrusted into our care. While we have not been perfect parents, God has. His grace has abounded and has been sufficient, even when my husband and I fell short. She is precious in the Lord's sight and in ours! While we have had some bumps and hiccups as we navigate through these teenage years, I see evidence of our Lord's amazing love and grace as it transforms my daughter into a godly young woman. I was so touched as she made her handmade party invitations requesting that her friends forego bringing a birthday gift and instead consider making a monetary donation to a local mom of 5 (and expecting another baby this summer) who was recently widowed as her young husband died unexpectedly. I am encouraged that my sweet girl chose to use the occasion of her birthday as an opportunity to bless others. My other kiddos have done this as well in previous years. I always leave it up to them. I want it to come from their heart and for them to give sacrificially to the ministry, cause or family that they feel God is directing them to. As followers of Christ we have been blessed with new life that is not simply counted in years or candles on a cake... but is eternal and infinite. My hope is that our family will continue to share God's love and message consistently, each year, each month, each week and each day.

"Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain." 1 Corinthians 15:58

Who is God?

Who is God to you? God is so many things. So many facets. Impossible to comprehend and know completely while earthbound. But as we seek Him and begin to truly know Him, I imagine we each relate a little differently to Him. I love that He is my King and my Lord... and that I am a daughter grafted in by my Heavenly Father, my Kinsman-Redeemer! He is a rock. My strength. Adonai, is my refuge and strong tower. To me... He is the Unchanging One. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. A covenant keeper, who has promised to never leave or forsake me. He is my shepherd and my protector. Full of love, grace and mercy. He is my God. And He is glorious and worthy of my praise!

"On God my salvaton and my glory rest; the rock of my strength, my refuge is in God." Psalm 62:7

"The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runs into it and is safe" Proverbs 18:10

"For God is my stronghold" Psalm 59:9

He is so beautiful to behold! Anyone who has known me for a long time might find it funny (maybe both ~ funny=odd and funny=how ironic) that this is how I view God and relate to Him most intimately. You see I used to be quite the feminist. Very insistent that I was independent and in control. What a relief it was when I stopped trying to play God and surrendered to the Lord of Lord and King of Kings. His created order and plan is so wonderful. My hope is that I will be a faithful servant and handmaiden of the Lord. Who is God? He is my Creator and my Saviour. My beginning and my end. He is my everything.

A link to the song Strong Tower

A Place of Refuge

Today's Word-Filled Wednesday is being hosted by Lori over at

All You Have To Give