Too Weak to Peek?

We all attempt to side step or hide our weaknesses. It can really be discouraging in this perfection driven society we live in to find those weaknesses resurrecting themselves when we least expect it.

I wrote down these words from somewhere. “A powerful life embraces pain, brokenness and weakness and understands that perfection is for Heaven, not Earth”. The words of Paul are profound, "God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong." (1 Corinthians 1:27 NIV)

God's power is instantly recognizable in obvious weakness. God has always allowed man's weakness to validate the immeasurable need of His redemption and His sufficiency in our lives. He can and will use us if we allow Him to do so -- not despite our weaknesses -- but through our weaknesses. We are not the message -- just the messenger. Our weaknesses are not excuses to escape God's plan but divinely appointed opportunities for that plan to work. It helps to remember:

Noah was a drunk.
Abraham was too old.
Isaac was a daydreamer.
Jacob was a liar.
Leah was ugly.
Joseph was abused.
Moses had a stuttering problem.
Gideon was afraid.
Sampson had long hair and was a womanizer.
Rahab was a prostitute.
Jeremiah and Timothy were too young.
David had an affair and was a murderer.
Elijah was suicidal.
Isaiah preached naked.
Jonah ran from God.
Naomi was a widow.
Job went bankrupt.
John the Baptist ate bugs.
Peter denied Christ.
The Disciples fell asleep while praying.
Martha worried about everything.
The Samaritan woman was divorced, more than once.
Zaccheus was too small.
Paul was too religious and Lazarus was dead!
(Author unknown)

A pearl to string: More important than where you have been or even where you are, is where you are headed. Don't wait until you have it all figured out. That won't happen, this side of Heaven. Don't wait until you think you are good enough. You never will be. Step up to the plate and be the imperfect you; allowing God's perfection to shine through each and every weakness. Do not listen to the doubts and lies of satan. His goal is to render you helpless and defeated, no longer a threat to him or his kingdom.

I so want to get to the place in my walk with God, that when my feet hit the floor each morning, the devil says, "Oh, no! She's awake!"

Smile, you are loved,
Lyndi

The Lord is Our Judge, Our Lawgiver, and Our King

by Pastor James Ryle
http://jamesryle.blogspot.com/


"For the LORD is our judge, the LORD is our lawgiver, the LORD is our king; he will save us." (Isaiah 33:22)

The human heart hungers for three things always --
Justice, Security, and Peace.
Look to your own soul and you will know this to be true.

No one likes to be cheated, or threatened, or harmed in any way. We all want to know that our pursuit of life, liberty, and happiness is unmolested by scoundrels and thieves. We want to know that if there are those who interfere with our God-given rights to these things -- there is somebody who will intervene and bring us justice, security, and peace.

We are so dedicated to these ideas that we formed our Government into three branches to insure that we would see these things come to pass in real and practical ways. Our Judicial Branch serves to bring us justice. Our Legislative Branch serves to gives us laws. And our Executive Branch serves to insure that we live in peace.

Yet, we are never to place our faith in MAN, but in God.

The Prophet Isaiah is reminding us where our focus must always be fixed -- upon the Lord. For it is He who is our Judge, our Lawgiver, and our King. And it is He, and He alone, who will save us.

Therefore, our hope is not in the Government, nor in the elected officials who serve in the various branches of our Government. We pray for them, and trust that they will govern wisely, with humility and honor; but we are not naive. We know that power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.

Our faith is in the Lord, who alone is incorruptible. "The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace." (Numbers 6:24-26).

The Lord bless and keep thee -- that's our Judge at work. The Lord make His face shine upon you -- that's our Lawgiver at work. The Lord lift up His countenance and give thee peace -- that's our King at work.

It is He, and He alone, who will save us.

Veterans' Day

Today is Veterans' Day. Originally, it was a day set aside to honor the Veterans of World War I because the signing of the Armistice which ended World War I took place on the 11th day of the 11th month at the 11th hour. Since that time, it has become a day to honor the Veterans of all wars. To all of our Veterans, thank you. We salute you, we are grateful for your courage and your sacrifice. We are blessed by your commitment and your service.

"Yahshua, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. Amen and amen."

Hummingbird Friends

So, how’s your today going so far? What’s that? Not so good huh? Well I usually don’t get this devotional off until about 8am or so and that’s 10 am on the east coast so perk up you’ve only got about 14 to 16 hours left depending upon your time zone and your outlook.

Both vultures and hummingbirds are winged creatures. Indubitably …. but

Vultures have a knack for finding dead decaying animals…because that is what they are looking for…… and

Hummingbirds have a knack for spotting nectar in beautiful flowers…because that is what they are looking for.

*******************************************************************************

There is an old story about two travelers nearing a great city.
The first stopped and asked a woman seated by the wayside,
“What are the people like in the city?”

“How were the people where you came from?” she asked.

“A terrible lot,” the traveler responded. “Mean, untrustworthy, detestable in all respects.”

“Ah,” said the woman, “You will find them the same in the city ahead.”

Scarcely was the first traveler gone when another one stopped and also inquired about the people in the city before him. Again the old woman asked about the people in the place the traveler had left.

“They were fine people; honest, industrious, and generous to a fault. I was sorry to leave,” declared the second traveler.

Responded the wise woman: “So you will find them in the city ahead.”

*******************************************************************************

String a pearl: Our words are a reflection of what we are looking for in people, circumstances, and life. We tend to see people through a lens of our own making. Whatever we are looking for is generally what we will find. Dwelling on the negative keeps you with the dead and decaying. While others have a gift for bringing out the best in people that is wrapped in believing the best and tied with beautiful ribbons of loving words. We’ve just come off a week with hummingbird friends – they make us feel blessed and beautiful. How thankful we are.

Jesus is going to bring out the best in you – that other guy? Not so much!
Keep your eyes on Jesus.
“Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 5:19-20

Humming with Jesus
And loving you,
Lyndi

Barack Obama is elected

Not since John F Kennedy ran for election in 1960 has there been so much nationwide excitement for a Presidential race. Truly this election will be marked in history as the most electrifying election of all time though I did not cast my vote for Barack Obama. I wanted a leader who has a compassionate view of life from conception to death, who supports values and legislation designed to strengthen marriages between men and women and that protect the family. I also wanted a leader who understands Israel’s Biblical significance and who will support her protection as God’s chosen people and chosen land. These are the issues closest to my heart.
BUT
I am an American with the inalienable right to choose and cast my vote. My fellow Americans have chosen and voted to elect Barack Obama and I now put the divisiveness of choice behind me to support and stand with our new President elect because we are the United States of America.
AND
As a follower of Yahshua (Jesus), the words of Paul commanding obedience to secular rulers is essential to me. The passage is from Romans: "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God... if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer." Romans 13:1, 4


First Lady Michelle holding Sasha (2001) & President Obama holding Malia (1999)

We welcome our new First Family to the White House,
we love you, we will pray for you and we are proud of you.

Lead Choice

Brothers and sisters from days gone by have suffered and laid down their lives for the freedom we have in these United States to choose who leads our country. As you prepare to vote in this 2008 Presidential Election calm your heart and choose who leads you. May His grace and peace always be with you.

Lead Choice

He leads me…Do you ever experience times when you sit down to do something and your mind travels to distant places? He leads me… It is cheaper than airfare but it makes me feel flighty. He leads me… Reading over the 23rd Psalm I kept pulling myself back. He leads me… Why does my mind wonder I ask myself? Possibly, because it’s been a favorite Psalm of mine since my Gram taught it to me when I was 6 years old and the very familiar often fails to hold my attention I answer myself (Oh that can’t be good). He leads me… Struggling to stay in focus I break out in laughter. My flighty attention span reminds me of my two little Bichons when I take them for a walk. I call them my crazy little women. They twist and jump and screech until I open the door then boom – I’m suddenly air born and parallel to the ground. Catching my breath and feet at the same time is tricky business. Then I struggle to keep the every-which-way racing dogs from twisting their leash cords into a tangled mess while winding me up into a knotted mummy. It’s so exhausting by the time I get to the end of the driveway I need a nap.

Oh my, Lord………… is that what I do to You? Ugg! I’m so sorry, please forgive me and please heal me. I want to walk by your side where you lead me Lord. The imagery of a shepherd watching over his flock, tenderly caring for the needs of those innocent and trusting creatures, is one which radiates a safe haven to me. In the 23 Psalm from David we see our relationship with the Lord affirmed. We are reminded of His provision, His refreshment, His healing, His guidance, His purpose, His testing, His protection, His faithfulness, His discipline, His hope, His consecration, His abundance, His blessing, His security and His eternity. Oh Lord, help me focus on all that love you give when You lead me.

A Pearl to String: The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.

Know you are loved and
May we live forever in His lead
Lyndi

God Is Still in Control
David Langerfeld

By the end of the day today, we will know a lot about the future of the United States. You might be surprised to learn that I am about to predict the outcome - I am about to predict what will happen after the election. Before the votes are counted, even before the voting booths close, I can predict with 100% accuracy that the following things will happen...

1. The Bible will still have all the answers.
2. Prayer will still work.
3. The Holy Spirit will still move.
4. God will still inhabit the praise of His people.
5. God will still pour out His blessings upon His people.
6. There will still be God-anointed teaching and preaching.
7. There will still be singing of praise to God.
8. There will still be room at the Cross.
9. Jesus will still love His own.
10. Jesus will still save the lost.

Whatever the outcome of this election, remember, God is still in control.

Today, tomorrow, forever...
God is still in control.

Message From Our Pastor

Tomorrow’s election is extremely important because there are so many critical issues at stake. Many of these issues are a matter of personal convictions and preference, but some fall into the category of the sacred. Sacred issues are those that are close to God’s heart. They are issues that leave no room for personal convictions or preferences.

No candidate is a perfect candidate, but I believe we should always vote for the ones who best support God’s heart.

Here are what I believe are the top three sacred issues to consider before heading off to the polling booths tomorrow:

1. LIFE
Life is precious to God. He laid down his life so that we could live. We need leaders, therefore, who have a compassionate view of life from conception to death. From the unborn to the elderly, we need leaders who will fight for all those who are sick, oppressed, or underprivileged. We can’t pick and choose which lives are more important because all life is precious to God. Every life deserves to be loved, cared, respected, and valued. Vote for the candidates who have the broadest definition of what constitutes a life.

2. FAMILY
Human life began with the marital union between Adam and Eve- a man and a woman. God charged them with building the family of man. God wasn’t just after building numbers, but building a home where each member of the household would be loved, nurtured, protected and valued in radical ways. We need leaders, therefore, who support values and legislation designed to strengthen marriages between men and women and that protect the family.

3. ISRAEL
God loves all the people of this word, but Israel is unquestionably a unique people and land from a Biblical perspective. It is the place of God’s eternal affection and the epicenter of Biblical events throughout history and beyond. We need leaders, therefore, who understand Israel’s Biblical significance and who will support her protection as God’s chosen people and chosen land. To be chosen by God is to be targeted by Satan, and no people and land has paid a higher price than Israel. Evil spiritual forces will continue to target Israel for extermination and we need leaders who understand this battle on a spiritual level.

Be informed! Take some time today to investigate the candidates. Leave your personal convictions and preferences out of the equation and make sure you vote for ones who best support God’s heart in these three sacred issues. Make your vote count.

One more thing to consider. I truly believe that it is critical to exercise our privilege to vote tomorrow. However, when the election results are in, it is also important to know that the candidates who are elected will be the ones God appointed for this hour in His-story.

Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Romans 13:1

Please vote for the men and women who will best represent God’s heart, but please don’t stress out if those candidates aren’t elected. God is in control and we should find peace and comfort in that truth. Whoever gets elected on Tuesday deserves our respect and support on Wednesday, for this too, is sacred to God.

Rabbi Gene
Cornerstone Church
Boulder, Colorado
http://www.gocornerstone.org/staff1.html

McCain or Obama? Republican or Democrat? Voting is an Awesome Privilege

Political Bad News
Dr. James C. Denison

On Monday, the Dow was doing so well, up 423 points at one point, before nosediving the last ten minutes of yesterday's session to finish down more than 200 points. The Wall Street Journal calls it "one of the swiftest, bloodiest late-day drops yet in a month that's been chock full of them." In times like these, we need the best leader we can elect.

And so, yesterday I nominated God for president. Today I have some bad news - He's not willing to run. As Gen. William Sherman said upon retiring from the military in 1884, "If nominated, I will not run; if elected, I will not serve." God feels the same way about campaigning for office - any office, in fact.

The plain fact is that my candidate is already King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He is the Creator of the entire universe, the One who rules all that is. Our next president is probably unavailable to serve as president of your PTA or chairman of your church's flower committee. God is not running for president of the United States, for the simple reason that he is already Master and Lord.

In these tumultuous, fearful times, it may be comforting to remember that your Father is the One in charge of all creation. He is on the throne of the universe, no matter what the markets do today. The winner of next Tuesday's election, whoever he may be, will still be a finite and fallible human being. His wisdom pales in comparison to the omniscience of our God. His power is infinitesimal alongside the omnipotence of our Lord.

Edward Bennett Williams (1920-1988) was a trial lawyer known as the "ultimate insider." As he lay dying, someone commented on his power and influence. He said, "Power? I'm about to meet real power." So will we all, our next president included.

So, we who follow Jesus, know to pray for our leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-2), but to remember that our God is Lord. Our faith is not ultimately in a president or party, but in our Father and King. We are to submit to earthly authority (Romans 13:1) unless such service is disobedient to our heavenly authority (Acts 4:19-20). Paul once wrote to "the saints in Christ Jesus at Philippi" (Philippians 1:1). Note his words: Christians are permanently in Christ Jesus, wherever they are at for the moment. At all times, "our citizenship is in heaven" (Phil. 3:20).

We don't know what the future holds, but we know the One who holds the future. Why do you need that reminder this morning?


By Dr. James C. Denison
Senior Pastor for Teaching, Park Cities Baptist Church, Dallas, Texas
Copyright © 2008. GodIssues.org. All rights reserved.
www.godissues.org

A Bowl Full of Prayers

Is someone praying for you? Well I am so you have at least one. Probably your mommy is praying for you. That’s two. Hey I bet your daddy prays for you too. That’s three. How about your grandparents? Ah, they are probably praying. Possibly up to seven people praying for you now. What about your best friend? Oh yeah, best friends are praying. What about all your family (brothers, sisters, in laws, Aunts, Uncles, cousins, nephews, nieces), friends (since childhood), co-workers (from every job you’ve had), neighbors (from every place you’ve ever lived) and strangers who pray for healing in your circumstances. OK, the numbers just went beyond my count ability. Wow, pretty cool huh? You got a posse of people praying for you. How old are you? Do you realize people have been praying for you and your well being since before you were born? Did you know it adds up? It says in the final book of the Bible that all our prayers are stored in huge golden bowls in God's throne room. ALL! No prayer offered for you or prayed by you has ever been deleted or erased or tossed aside. Goose bumps huh? Is that awesome or what!

“…….and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of God's holy people. Revelation 5:8

Golden bowls full of prayers? What could that possibly look like in God’s throne room? Maybe God’s golden bowls would look like miles and miles of golden fields here on earth. That might be a bowl big enough to hold all those prayers.


A Bowl Full of Prayers

McKenzie Rose & friend in Romania 08

Field of Prayer

A pearl to string: God has given each one of us the honor and privilege to pray for one another for a lifetime. Every prayer is heard by God himself. There is not one that slips away.

Be blessed by your bowl full of prayers,
Lyndi

A Prayer by Max Lucado

"You Have Our Attention, Lord"

Our friends lost their house
The co-worker lost her job
The couple next door lost their retirement
It seems that everyone is losing their footing

This scares us. This bailout with billions.
These rumblings of depression.
These headlines: ominous, thunderous -
"Going Broke!" "Going Down!" "Going Under!" "What's Next?"

What is next?

We're listening.
And we're admitting: You were right.

You told us this would happen.
You shot straight about loving stuff and worshipping money.
Greed will break your heart,You warned.
Money will love you and leave you.
Don't put your hope in riches that are so uncertain.
You were right.

Money is a fickle lover and we just got dumped.

We were wrong to spend what we didn't have.
Wrong to neglect prayer and ignore the poor.
Wrong to think we ever earned a dime.
We didn't. You gave it.
And now, tell us Father, are You taking it?

We're listening. And we're praying.
Could you make something good out of this mess?

Of course you can. You always have.
You led slaves out of slavery,
Built temples out of ruins,
Turned stormy waves into a glassy pond and water into sweet wine.
This disorder awaits your order. So do we.

Through Christ, Amen

God will always give what is right to His people who cry to Him night and day, and He will not be slow to answer them. (Luke 18:7 NCV)


Max Lucado
www.maxlucado.com

Elbow Grease

Doing the dishes was a chore done by a ton of kids back in the fifties. If you’ve got a dish washer – loading it is NOT doing the dishes. Back in the day before ‘the machine’ – we had to get the water so hot your hands would turn fire red. Every dish had to be scrubbed clean. There were no scratch pads which made pots and pans one of the most difficult of the washer’s chore. One evening I was doing the washing part of doing the dishes and my brother Chase, six and a half years my senior, was the dryer. He operated under two rules. When he was washing the dryer made up for the washer’s mistakes. BUT when he was drying the washer’s mistake was a do over. He kept popping a pan back into the water and my tears began to flow. “I can’t get that off”, I exclaimed. He would just smile and put the pot back into the water. After many do over’s and pop back ins I finally with great consternation marched into the living room to report my dilemma and Chase’s impossible behavior to my mother. She listened, smiled and said, “use elbow grease”. Without comment I rolled my eyes, dropped my shoulders and returned to the kitchen. My brother had disappeared. He had to have been gone at least 20 minutes and when he returned he found me under the sink. “What are you doing?” he asked. I literally had climbed all the way under the sink. A six year old body can do that. I poked my head out, “I can’t find the elbow grease anywhere- doesn’t it start with an L?” I sobbed!

Earnest, diligent and steadfast won’t help if what you are looking for isn’t where you are looking for it. Plus it helps if you know what ‘IT’ actually is!

Love seems to be as slippery as elbow grease. People can’t find it in their jobs, or their performance or achievements. It’s not rolling around in the hay, or the back seat of a car or a dark secluded place doing the ‘wild thing’. Material possessions, wealth or popularity don’t seem to bring a sustaining love. Even relationships fall short in love on a regular basis. People are mean out there – ever notice? I think I saw all those things under the sink!

A pearl to string: Love isn’t something you get and it doesn’t come in a labeled can either. Love is something you give. True love is neither physical, nor romantic. True love is an acceptance of all that is, has been, will be, and will not be. So if it’s love you are looking for don’t look under the sink or any of those other uncanny places. Grow closer and more intimate with God because ........."God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them". 1 John 4:16, NIV

The Message (contemporary English from the rhythms and idioms of the original language) states that Scripture verse as: "This is how we know we're living steadily and deeply in him, and he in us: He's given us life from his life, from his very own Spirit. Also, we've seen for ourselves and continue to state openly that the Father sent his Son as Savior of the world. Everyone who confesses that Jesus is God's Son participates continuously in an intimate relationship with God. We know it so well, we've embraced it heart and soul, this love that comes from God".

Grow beautiful in love my friends,
Lyndi

"O Nobody Knows the Trouble I Seen"

Pastor James Ryle
http://jamesryle.blogspot.com/

"Keep you guard up. You're not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It's the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith." (1 Peter 5:9, The Message).

There are few things the devil likes more than to get you believing that you're the only one going through a tough time. He wants you to feel alone, forsaken, and forgotten. If he can pull it off -- you will drop your guard, lower your shied of faith and be wide open for his more assiduous assaults. Don't let him win -- keep a firm grip on your faith.

Peter goes on to say, "The suffering won't last forever. It won't be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ -- eternal and glorious plans they are! -- will have you put together and on your feet for good." (1 Peter 5:10).

So the next time you're feeling all alone, and deep down inside you hear the rumblings of that old song -- "O nobody knows the trouble I seen" -- stop right there. EVERYBODY knows! We are all going through it with you. Stop your whining; it's embarrassing.

Paul and Silas were in a dungeon chained to the wall and surrounded by rats. They started singing praise to God and the devil started shaking in his boots. He shook so hard that an earthquake happened, which broke the chains and opened up the prison doors -- setting Paul and Silas free.

Instead of moaning about your troubles, start singing praise to God -- you just might be the one that causes a prison break for the rest of us!

Be lost in the wonder of Him

I fell in love with my Coach Wonderful a little less than a half a century ago, yet with forty five+ years of marital bliss, I still have moments that I shake my head and wonder, "who is that man?" Oh, I may not have solved every mystery about him and a long life may not be long enough to accomplish that but I do know my husband. I know his voice, his touch, and his habits. I'm a witness to his character, his personality, and his ways. It has gone the same way in my relationship with God, though I do ask Him occasionally if He’s sure He has my correct address. I have learner over the years to hear His voice, to recognize His touch, and to understand some basic truths of who He is.

There are so many revelations of God in His Word. The Bible boasts of His greatness, glory, honor, and character. We know that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8), that God's grace is sufficient for every repentant heart, and that His power is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). We know that His name is above all other names (Philippians 2:9), that there is no other like Him (Jeremiah 10:6), and that His wisdom holds secrets that are hidden from before time began (I Corinthians 2:7). And for as much as we know about the LORD, our knowledge of Him is but a fraction of a grain of sand as held up to all the beaches on earth.

Though He is the mysterious master Creator who hung each star in the sky and calls them by name, He wants us to love Him, to trust Him, to know Him, and to worship Him. That thought alone sets my mind to marvel!

A pearl to string: God invites us to participate with Him in a vibrant dance of abundant life through His Son, Jesus Christ. Our amazing Heavenly Father bids each and every one of us to come to Him with questions, to be held by His love, to find peace, hope, and healing in His Son. He calls us to seek Him through prayer and to experience new revelations of Him through His Word and through the Holy Spirit. He says, "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know." Jeremiah 33:3.

The voice of all of creation shouts His praise!

May each one of you get lost in the wonder of Him.
You are ever in His heart,
Lyndi

A Road Trip to Happy

If you reverse disappearing into thin air you have us just returning into the thin air of Colorado from a road trip to happy. Visiting family & dear friends and driving 2,720 miles with my Coach Wonderful have made me very happy. I love driving on the open road. Being on oxygen 24/7 makes me feel like a bird on a leash but in a car I can fly and see and breathe all at the same time. Functioning at sea level enables me to move about less restricted so that added to the joyful experience. We had three distinct and beautiful stops to treasure on our trip to happy. I’m noticing something odd as I write this. While the ‘now’ of each stop was incredibly rewarding each one took me back to sweet memories of days gone by. Do you think that is just an age thing?

Our first stop was Downers Grove Illinois to enjoy the excited activity of our oldest son’s family. Mike & Jenni have a warm, beautiful and inviting home including the every man’s dream, to die for, media room - lost Coach Wonderful in there a few times! Family life ran at full speed as we played with four of our 10 grandchildren. We watched Nickolas play football, Justin play soccer & baseball, played cards and games with Brandon & Alexa and visited everyone’s school on Monday morning. Sometimes as Jenni worked in the kitchen and children flew by at an accelerated rate my mind’s eye could see a young Lyndi preparing meals and a riotous Mike, Tom & Marc accompanied by their angelic sister Kristy. It was such a great time – can’t wait to do it again – its wonderful being with grandkids on their own turf.

Our second stop was Grosse Ile Michigan with our dear friends Jack & Toni Hall who hosted our entire stay. Hummm I think I’d like to retire in their home. Pure luxury in surroundings and love – they took such tender and attentive care of us. This was the ‘great friends’ portion of our trip with Coach Wonderful’s 50th high school reunion. Oh my, it was fun to see everyone again, catching up on families and the goodness of life which always includes enough trouble to reveal blessings. It was a special delight to have my close friends, those who shared the mommy track with me, drop by for hugs and laughter – I treasure that one on one time.

Our third stop was not a change of venue but a very special visit in Riverview Michigan: An evening with old Mac’s. It thrilled my heart to see Coach Wonderful with his brothers and sister and his beautiful 98 year young Mom. That was a goal in my heart and God blessed it with lighthearted chatter sprinkled with family stories that make us all laugh. NO FIGHTS! Yeah!! A memorable and blessed time together – thank you Lord.



A pearl to string: We begin with God then He grows us in families and He gives us friends. The years teach you those are the most cherished treasures as we live this life. Nothing else counts, not jobs, houses, cars, clothes or the lack of those things.
God –
Family –
Friends –
INCREDIPEARLS-
We live in thanksgiving.

Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them. Romans 12:9-14/NLT

I hope this makes you want to go hug someone you thank God for ……


Go ahead…
Go Hug Someone

Know you are loved,
Lyndi

Rhapsody In Blue

No spiritual message here just my all time favorite musical composition by George Gershwin. Rhapsody in Blue was written in 1924 for solo piano and jazz band, combining elements of classical music with jazz-influenced effects. Just something very old to enjoy for classical music lovers with a wild hair. (old terminology for old, racy in it's day, music)

Wyrgan

The history of the word "worry" is rooted from an old English word "wyrgan" which means to strangle.

When you have consistent mental uneasiness feeling anxious and distressed about something going on in your life, you will begin to feel smothered. You feel like you're losing your breath. The concern and fears begin to suffocate you squeezing out all of your joy, peace and faith. You may feel cut off from solutions, mercy and strength as the enemy strangles you with fear. The habit of worrying is something I have wrestled with for many years. I felt responsible for the care and choices of others in my family. I worried about money and health. I worried about the future of my children. I began to realize that worrying did not solve anything. It never helped the situation. It only hurt me because I lost sleep, ate and shopped impulsively, smothered my faith, tried to rescue other people and suppressed my anger and feelings of inadequacy.

Getting older and wiser is a good thing! But why can't we learn these lessons earlier? The good news is that you can. You can watch, listen and learn from others. Or you can wait to get sick and tired of being sick and tired. Then you will learn to let go and let God. You will learn to breathe again and not allow the enemy to place His hands around your neck choking you with fear, procrastination, worry, stomach aches, headaches, high blood pressure and heart attacks. You will learn that if you pray...don't worry and if you worry...don't pray.

You will learn to get up and take action rather than worry, weep, wait, whine and wish things were better.

A pearl to string: Everything is in divine order. Whatever or whoever is stealing your joy and peace today, take back your power and don't delay. God broke your years into hours and days so that hour by hour, and day by day you might be able to grow along the way. If all the weight of life were laid across your shoulders and you had to meet struggle and tribulations face to face in just one place, all at one time, you could not bear it. Your feet would stop, your back would strain, the enemy would win and you would give up. So instead, God lays a little on you at a time. You can make it. You are stronger than you think. I pray that your burdens will never be so deep or your path so steep, that you can't go on. You only need to bear the burdens of this hour. Trust God ... breathe ... pray... Release... relax... focus and take the necessary action for THIS hour.
"Cast all your cares upon Him, for HE cares for you." ~1 Peter 5:7

You are His treasure,
Lyndi

Mustard Seeds

While I work at my desk I pour a few mustard seeds onto the counter top to remind myself how small my faith is. God’s ubiquitous company calms me when I turn my focus to His ways. In my worst moments, a seemingly far-fetched or ridiculous-sounding positive thought, word, or action can act as a seed of faith that will spark a healing process. While meditating on God's Word, praying, and in daring to quote His promises for healing, my faith just grows, and His peace that passes all human understanding is a gift of that dedicated time.

"Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." — Hebrews 11:1

I read recently that positive thinking is depending on your ‘self’ power. This of course would be counterproductive in the Christian faith. Respectively I view it differently: To think positively is like carrying a weapon of mass destruction in kingdom living. My goodness, there are mornings I wake up with ugly negative thoughts on my mind. I don’t know how they got there I was sleeping. I have to push them away with positive thought or I can’t go on with my day in a loving, giving manner.

A pearl to string: I see faith and positive thinking as a key to maintaining health on both a physical and mental level. But really faith and positive thinking is absolutely invaluable to me in maintaining an atmosphere in which I can grow spiritually. Making a conscious effort to halt negative thoughts and replace them with positive ones is healing. By living a moment-to-moment life of thanksgiving, instead of one filled with worry and anticipation about the coming day or week, your faith becomes the seed from which good things can grow.

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is–his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2

That’s it – that says to me: ‘Don’t let the dogs eat your mustard seeds!

Push out those negative thoughts and live positively

THANKS-GIVING-LY
You are loved,
Lyndi

Salty, Shiny, Sheep

By Luann Prater
http://www.947krks.com/devotionals/encouragement/11581560/print/

The world fills us with false descriptions of what we should strive to become. An entrepreneur like Bill Gates, a gardener like Martha Stewart, and you know some have stood in front of the mirror dreaming of becoming the next American Idol!

Being raised in the 70s, I always wanted to be the girl on the commercial who sang, "I can bring home the bacon; fry it up in a pan; and never ever let you forget you're a man; 'cause I'm a WOMAN!" What a lofty goal...ugh and tiring! We wear ourselves out trying to fit the image that satan has painted.

Need a different image to conform to?
How about salty, shiny, sheep?

Let's take a look at how Jesus described us. We are salt. Do you know that salt is used in greater quantities and for more applications than any other mineral? It has more than 14,000 known uses! Every living creature requires salt for life and health. Salt can soften hard water, remove impurities; preserve and cure foods; tan hides and it's even been used to seed clouds to produce rain. When Jesus refers to us as salt he means that we are essential to every living creature. We have thousands of uses in His hands. We can help soften, heal, separate, remove impurities, fill, preserve, cure and even tan hides!

Jesus also tells us that we are to shine like stars in the universe. Have you looked up and seen the stars in the sky? They twinkle at us from the middle of extreme darkness. Likewise, our world is often dark and we are called to brighten up our spot with the light of God's truth and an attitude of grace.

Jesus also called us sheep. I can relate to this metaphor most of all. Whenever I do something brainless, I belt out a "baaa" sound. Like sheep, we wander off, we make the same mistakes again and again, and we mindlessly follow the crowd. Yet Jesus said when He speaks, we are able to recognize His voice -- just like a sheep obeying a shepherd.

A pearl to string: We’re always looking for a hero or a shero – somebody we can emulate and relate to – someone we can love, worship and adore – someone who will love us in spite of ourselves. Good News – I found that person – it’s Jesus!
Salty:"You are the salt of the earth." Matthew 5:13/NIV
Shiny:"In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:16/NIV
Sheep:"I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me." John 10:14/NIV

Jesus is for you!
Invite Him to come in and live in your heart,
Be Blessed,
Lyndi

SARAH PALIN—FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS

Note: This is not intended to be a political article. Choice and freedom to follow ones belief is still something wonderful we enjoy in America. Spiritual things are always interesting to me and this lady, Hazel Straub, seems to have a gift of discernment for spiritual thoughts. Someone said they recently learned from a counselor that our thoughts are NOT truth. So I'm not posting this article by Miss Hazel as truth - I'm posting it because I find it very interesting. Hope you enjoy - Lyndi

By Hazel Straub, Fairbanks, Alaska, 9/15/08

"Then Mordecai told them to reply to Esther, "Do not imagine that you in the king's palace can escape any more than all the Jews. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place and you and your father's house will perish. And who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this?" Esther 4:13-14

Suddenly, Sarah Palin appeared on the national scene as John McCain's Vice Presidential choice. The country was baffled and said, "From where did she come? How could Alaska produce a viable candidate to be a heartbeat from being President of the USA?"

Alaska, the Forty-Ninth State is celebrating its Fiftieth Jubilee Year. In the Jubilee, the captives are set free and the land is returned to its ancestral owner. Alaska has been the Omega state but is now the Alpha state where things begin and end due to being on both sides of the International Dateline. God's plumb line has been placed on Alaska and the old corrupt system is being dismantled. The politicians who pandered to the tune set by the self serving oil companies are being exposed and brought into the light of justice. A new North wind is blowing through Alaska. Sarah Palin, an political outsider, became the Alaskan governor because she knew how to gain the favor of the King of Kings, by seeking to please him. An election for the new president was soon coming and although the cry for someone who would honor life, had gone up to heaven, it appeared that the choice was the old guard. Where was God's choice? Then suddenly on the eve of the Republican National Convention, John McCain announced Governor Sarah Palin was his choice for Vice President. Suddenly the emphasis was on the prospective Vice President rather than President.

Sarah (princess with the breath of God in her name) Palin, age 44 (double doors for Jesus our creator to walk through) was announced as the countries' new Vice President of the USA, on the 88th (double new beginnings or a new cycle) year of the right of women to vote. Additionally, Chuck Pierce, Glory of Zion, had said that America had a cycle of seven years of war that ended on 9-11-08. We have come into a new cycle that starts on the eighth year. Governor Palin will be the 44th Vice President. Alaska is the gateway for the Ancient of Days to come into the USA.

Sarah has been called a modern day Esther. Esther was a young woman who rose from obscurity to win a beauty contest and become queen to the Persian king who ruled from India to Ethiopia. The desire of Esther was to please the king and this gave her favor. Although Esther was Jewish and known as Hadassah (myrtle--"sweetness," an evergreen tree that is prized for its fragrant leaves with a scent more exquisite than a rose and medicinal berries) she took the Persian name of Esther (star). During her reign, there was much palace intrigue and a man named Haman (magnificent), the highest prince in Persia, conspired through a plot to kill all the Jews in the empire. Esther lived a privileged luxurious life in the palace but when she learned of the plot, she decided to risk her life for her people. She and her maidens and all the Jews in her city fasted and prayed for three days. She had not been summoned to see the king for quite some time. She faced death, as she boldly went into the king's presence without an invitation. Only the favor of the king with the extension of his scepter would spare her life. God granted her favor and the king extended his royal scepter to her. Within two days, Haman was no longer in favor and the tide of public opinion granted favor to the Jews. The Jews lived and triumphed over their enemies. Esther, an orphan, rose to a position of power and favor with the king "for such a time as this."

But what does the story of Esther have to do with Sarah Palin today? Over fifty and one-half million unborn children have been aborted in the past 35 years in the United States of America. Their innocent blood has been crying out to God for justice because shedding of innocent blood pollutes the land and will result in a subsequent bloodbath for the inhabitants of the land. The American Civil War came after many African slaves were murdered or treated as refuse and their blood cried out for justice. The resulting Civil War divided families just as the slave families had been divided and many perished just as the slaves had. There has not been a war since this time in the USA that has caused as many untimely deaths and heartache as did the Civil War. We, as a country, are facing a bloodbath unless we reverse the culture of death in our country. Lou Engle has energized many youth through the Call movement and twenty-four hour prayer for a reversal of the verdict of death of our unborn children and future by the USA Supreme Court. The 2008 presidential election is crucial for changing the Supreme Court into a place of life rather than death. There is a need for three new justices on the court that will go with life.

Sarah Palin, the Alaskan Governor and Vice President candidate, is a former beauty queen contestant. She was runner up for the Miss Alaska pageant a number of years ago and was voted Miss Congeniality in the contest. She is a committed praying Christian since a young age and has lived a life of protecting the unborn. Recently, she gave birth to a Downs Syndrome child, although 90% of these children are aborted. Her seventeen year old daughter is pregnant and unmarried but decided to keep her baby rather than conveniently aborting it. The priority of Sarah is to please the King of Kings. When she was Wasilla mayor, she received personal prophecy from ministry students. They prophesied to her that she would go to Washington DC and would eventually occupy the White House. Sarah seeks the favor of the King, as she wages spiritual battle against the spirits of death and deception. We need to intercede for Sarah and her family to have the favor of God on their lives and a hedge of protection. A righteous king brings life to the people.

Sarah, on 9-10-08, returned to Alaska for the first time since her nomination. Fairbanks, the Golden Heart City, was her first stop. Her homecoming was broadcast on CNN for several hours. Immediately after the homecoming rally, a rainbow appeared at the end of the Fairbanks airport runway. God told Noah that he would put a rainbow in the sky as a covenant sign. The sun began to set, over Fairbanks and the bottom part of the rainbow appeared to be a pillar of fire. The hills to the west were flaming red in the setting sun. God promised that he would be with the Israelites as a pillar of fire by night. His fire casts out darkness!

God has raised Sarah Palin up for such a time as this. There is a battle to be fought on our knees, as we seek the heart the king. May the favor of the extended scepter be granted to Sarah and all who intercede! So be it LORD!

MEET ME IN THE STAIRWELL

Sent by Robin McCartney

You say you will never forget where you were when
you heard the news On September 11, 2001.
Neither will I.

I was on the 110th floor in a smoke filled room
with a man who called his wife to say 'Good-Bye.' I
held his fingers steady as he dialed. I gave him the
peace to say, 'Honey, I am not going to make it, but it
is OK..I am ready to go.'

I was with his wife when he called as she fed
breakfast to their children. I held her up as she
tried to understand his words and as she realized
he wasn't coming home that night.

I was in the stairwell of the 23rd floor when a
woman cried out to Me for help. 'I have been
knocking on the door of your heart for 50 years!' I said.
'Of course I will show you the way home - only
believe in Me now.'

I was at the base of the building with the Priest
ministering to the injured and devastated souls.
I took him home to tend to his Flock in Heaven. He
heard my voice and answered.

I was on all four of those planes, in every seat,
with every prayer. I was with the crew as they
were overtaken. I was in the very hearts of the
believers there, comforting and assuring them that their
faith has saved them.

I was in Texas , Virginia , California , Michigan , Afghanistan ..
I was standing next to you when you heard the terrible news.
Did you sense Me?

I want you to know that I saw every face. I knew
every name - though not all know Me. Some met Me
for the first time on the 86th floor.

Some sought Me with their last breath.
Some couldn't hear Me calling to them through the
smoke and flames; 'Come to Me... this way... take
my hand.' Some chose, for the final time, to ignore Me.
But, I was there.

I did not place you in the Tower that day. You
may not know why, but I do. However, if you were
there in that explosive moment in time, would you have
reached for Me?

Sept. 11, 2001, was not the end of the journey
for you. But someday your journey will end.. And I
will be there for you as well. Seek Me now while I may
be found. Then, at any moment, you know you are
'ready to go.'

I will be in the stairwell of your final moments.

Love God

Written by Stacey Randall
Copyright©2002

Prayer for a Sister in Christ Jesus

Sixty-six Days of Intercession for Gov. Sarah Palin according to Psalm 27

From August 29 through November 4

Pray for Sarah, husband Todd, sons Track, baby Trig, daughters Bristol, Willow, Piper



Pray for:
Singleness of Vision, Moral Clarity
Ps 27:1a - The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear?

Fearlessness, Boldness
Ps 27:1b - The Lord is the defense of my life; Whom shall I dread?

Protection from Libel, Slander, Hatred, Persecution
Ps 27:2 - When [not "if"] evildoers came upon me to devour my flesh, my adversaries and my enemies, they stumbled and fell.

Confidence in Christ, a Guarded Heart
Ps 27:3 - Though a host encamps against me, my heart will not fear; Though war arise against me, in spite of this I shall be confident.

Priorities: Devotions, Rest, Balance
Ps 27:4 - One thing I have asked from the Lord, that I shall seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to meditate in His temple.

Deliverance, Favor
Ps 27:5 - For in the day of trouble He will conceal me in His tabernacle; In the secret place of His tent He will hide me; He will lift me up on a rock.

An Overcoming Spirit, a Higher Perspective
Ps 27:6 - And now my head will be lifted up above my enemies around me; And I will offer in His tent sacrifices with shouts of joy. I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the Lord.

Direction, Wisdom, Surefootedness
Ps 27:7, 11 - Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice, and be gracious to me and answer me. . . . Teach me Thy way, O Lord and lead me in a level path because of my foes.

A Release of Faith, an Expectancy of Good,
Ps 27:13 - I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.

Strength, Courage, Endurance,
Ps 27:14 - Wait for the Lord; Be strong and let your heart take courage. Yes, wait for the Lord.

And let Your kingdom come and let Your will be done.

From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise because of Your enemies, to silence the foe and avenger. Psalm 8:2

Lip-aerobic II

I've always said men need to be challenged and women need to be encouraged. Women are challenged enough just living with one man and assorted children none of which came with a set of directions. No wonder we need the Lord.

Most of my days are spent in conversation with the male species all of whom wish to know how long this conversation is going to take or when will this ever end. Ah such sweet relief girlfriends bring to one another. It's a real blessing just to be in the same room with championship quality ‘lip-aerobic’ aficionados. I enjoy studying God’s Word with other women. It really helps to erase the guilt. I’m not the only one who hurts in life and I’m not the only one who fails either. Worshiping, laughing and just being putty together in the hands of an awe-inspiring Savior is so deeply refreshing to my soul. It’s like climbing into my daddy’s arms and getting a warm, comforting hug. Thank you Jesus - how loving you are.

The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail. Isaiah 58:11

It’s not too late to join a small group, not to late to find you are not alone, not too late to be blessed, challenged and encouraged by the body of Christ. We were designed to share our lives, our joys, our burdens, and our grief. I like the laughing part the best. It’s like jogging on the inside and good medicine for the soul. Find a small group and while you are busy being a blessing you will be blessed.

Pearl to String: Precious Lord, you lead us gently and lovingly to new insights, new wisdom. You open our eyes and our hearts and our minds to understand what it is that You want us to be and to do. And we always think it should be more complicated; that we should have to believe three impossible things before breakfast in order to be Your servants, Your friends, Your children. But it's not complicated. It is simple, really. You want us to love one another. Why is it that we resist that so fiercely? Help us to "lay down" our lives, to "give up" our notions of self, so that we may truly "love one another" and so fulfill the law of Christ. In Jesus' name we ask. Amen.
Bear one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2 NKJV

Know you are loved,
Lyndi

Chances

Wrongway Riegels

It’s with great trepidation I welcome back football season. I won’t be able to touch the remote control without fear of losing a hand and the men in my life will go into their yearly transfixed state of mind. I am, however the perpetual cheerleader for the men in my life. No longer outfitted in those cute, tiny miniskirts but cheering on their teams as always. Go Get-em Fairview Knights, Rock On LSU Tigers, Stun-em Faith Christian Eagles, Go Buffs! Hit em high, hit em low, where they go? We don’t know! It will probably take me all week to come up with a cheer for next week end. I did come across a story I remember hearing about for years. It will be familiar to most of you.

On New Year's Day, 1929, Georgia Tech played the University of California in the Rose Bowl. In that game a man named Roy Riegels recovered a fumble for California. Somehow, he became confused and started running 65 yards in the wrong direction. One of his own teammates, Benny Lom, outdistanced him and downed him just before he scored for the opposing team. When California attempted to punt, Tech blocked the kick and scored a safety which was the ultimate margin of victory.

That strange play came in the first half, and everyone who was watching the game was asking the same question: "What will Coach Nibbs Price do with Roy Riegels in the second half?" The men filed off the field and went into the dressing room. They sat down on the benches and on the floor, all but Riegels. He put his blanket around his shoulders, sat down in a corner, put his face in his hands, and cried like a baby.

If you have played football, you know that a coach usually has a great deal to say to his team during half time. That day Coach Price was quiet. No doubt he was trying to decide what to do with Riegels. Then the timekeeper came in and announced that there were three minutes before playing time.

Coach Price looked at the team and said simply, "Men the same team that played the first half will start the second." The players got up and started out, all but Riegels. He did not budge. The coach looked back and called to him again; still he didn't move.

Coach Price went over to where Riegels sat and said, "Roy, didn't you hear me? The same team that played the first half will start the second." Then Roy Riegels looked up and his cheeks were wet with a strong man's tears.

"Coach," he said, "I can't do it to save my life. I've ruined you, I've ruined the University of California, I've ruined myself. I couldn't face that crowd in the stadium to save my life."

Then Coach Price reached out and put his hand on Riegel's shoulder and said to him: "Roy, get up and go on back; the game is only half over." And Roy Riegels went back, and those Tech men will tell you that they have never seen a man play football as Roy Riegels played that second half.

A pearl to string: Jesus offers us the chance to start anew - clean and fresh. No matter how badly we've blown it, no matter how many times we've failed, we can start over. Today is the day for a fresh start. Get back in the game! Your second half has just started.
“His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness”. Lamentations 3:22-23

The Lord is the Victor
You are loved,
Lyndi

Change Happens

by Angela L. Craig
www.girlfriendsingod.com

Isaiah 41:10 (NIV) "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Right now as I am writing this devotional, the world is changing. My children are growing-up, I'm facing one of those birthdays with a zero at the end, and the price of gas has probably gone up five cents in the time it has taken me to write this first paragraph.

I am famous for holding on to the illusion that I have total control over my world, but the truth is - I don't. I have come to realize that whether it is by personal choice or by circumstance, change is inevitable in our lives. How about you? What changes are you facing in your life? I imagine that for many of us, the changes we are facing are not as trivial as growing children and wrinkles. Uninvited change brings with it a river of emotions, doesn't it? The fear of failure, heart wrenching feelings of loss, obsession with the "what if" questions, and emotional instability are just a few of the things we experience. My personal favorite is the fear that I will never get to the other side of change; that I will be stuck in transition forever.

Luckily for you and I, there is someone who is in control: God! The Bible teaches us that change is one thing in life that is guaranteed, but we don't have to fear because God is in control and He has plans to do good things! God just needs us to perceive it and believe it (Isaiah 43:18).

Although change is inevitable, there are four ways we can manage the transition with God's help.
1) Focus on today. Sometimes the big picture can be overwhelming and paralyzing. A very good friend of mine taught me that when I feel overwhelmed by the big picture, I should focus only on the very next thing and let God handle the rest. You will feel insurmountable peace when you practice this exercise.

2) Focus on others. When you serve others, it is impossible to think about yourself. And by the way, doing laundry and dishes does not count. Be the change in your community by volunteering one hour per week in an area of service you are passionate about. Doing good has been scientifically proven to heal, so go for it!

3) Incorporate exercise into your day. Add "sprint" (short duration) exercises to your day. For example, try doing 10 push-ups and 20 sit-ups before getting in the shower or pick up some weights during the commercials of your favorite T.V. show. Adding two or more sprint exercises to your day will increase your endorphin level and relieve stress.

4) Change the way you think about change. Instead of dreading change, embrace it. Instead of thinking, "This change is completely freaking me out. I feel frightened for my future. What if this or that happens?"

Speak these words to yourself instead: "God is my rock and my fortress (Psalm 1), He has a plan to prosper and not harm me (Jeremiah 29:11). I do not need to fear for God is with me (Isaiah 41:10). Nothing is too hard for my God (Jeremiah 32:17) I have great expectation for what God has in mind for my life and I can't wait to see His plan revealed!"

The secret: when you start matching your thoughts and words with God's thoughts and words you gain power and courage that you never thought existed!

Let's Pray: Dear Lord, I need your strength and peace today as I face change. I pray Lord that you will help me keep my eyes on You. Lord, show me the steps I need to take towards the life You have designed for me. Help me to face change with courage and faith. I thank you Lord that Your plan is always for good! In Jesus' Name, Amen.

The Finish

With the end of the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China there are some great stories and illustrations that will be shared for years to come. Not having an ounce of athleticism in me I am awe struck with what the human body and spirit can endure and accomplish. But I am often more amazed at the depth of heart in the stories behind the events.

I’m reaching back to a very special year in our lives when our daughter was born and the Detroit Tigers won the World Series. The 1968 Olympic Games were in Mexico City and John Stephen Ahkwari of Tanzania was one very excited marathon runner.

The starter’s pistol fired and the race began. A little over 2 hours later, the first runner crossed the finish line. Other runners finished the race shortly afterwards, but John was not among them. Over an hour after the winner had crossed the finish line, with only a few spectators remaining in the stands, John Stephen Ahkwari finally entered the stadium.

Bandaged and bloody, John finally crossed the finish line. A sports reporter, asked John why he didn't just quit. He answered, "My country did not send me 5000 miles to Mexico City to start the race. They sent me here to finish."

A pearl to string: John Stephen Akhwari did not receive a prize or a medal, but he did endure. He didn't just start the race, he finished it. Sometimes being a Christian feels like a race but God didn’t just call us to start the Christian race, He called us to finish it! When it’s all said and done I want to be able to say just what it says in 2 Timothy 4:7 "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." And then I want to hear the words spoken in Matthew 25:21; "Well done good and faithful servant…… come share your master’s happiness".



May His presence light your way,
Lyndi

Stretcher Bearers

By Sharon Jaynes
www.girlfriendsingod.com

One day Jesus traveled to Capernaum, Peter's hometown. The people had heard about how Jesus healed the sick, made the lame to walk, and cast out evil spirits. That evening, so many people came to hear Jesus at Peter's home they were crowded into every nook and cranny, even overflowing out the door.

However, Jesus' voice was not the only thing heard among the crowd. Sounds of hammering, pounding, digging, and scraping mingled with voices. Jesus suddenly felt clay from the ceiling begin to rain down on his head and sprinkle his lashes. Dust piled up around his sandaled feet and showered his now powdery cloak. As Jesus raised his eyes to the ceiling, he discovered a growing opening in the ceiling and four very determined men.

The crowd stared wide-eyed as a man was lowered through the opening in the roof and placed at Jesus' feet. Jesus looked down at the paralyzed man lying on the palette before him and simply said, "Your sins are forgiven."

But wait; is that what the man really longed for? Is that what his friends had in mind? Oh my friend, sometimes it is our sin that paralyzes us. One of Satan's most damaging tactics is to paralyze us with our own emotional wounds. He wants to fill us with shame, weigh us down with guilt, and cripple our progress toward the cross, but Jesus came to set us free! He tells us to get up and walk!

Another facet of this story sets my heart to singing! The man's friends loved him enough to carry him to Jesus. Sometimes we don't have the energy to make it to the Healer alone. How blessed to have friends who will be the stretcher bearers that carry us to the Savior, risk the rebuke of digging a hole in the roof, and are not afraid of getting a bit messy in the process.
Someone once said, "A friend hears the song in my heart and sings it to me when my memory fails." A friend can remind me of God's faithfulness when my memory is clouded by the circumstances of life.

God sometimes uses friends to be our "stretcher bearers", those willing to carry us through the difficulties of life and set us at the feet of Jesus. At other times, He might call you to be that willing friend for someone else.

A pearl to string: "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!". Ecclesiastes 4:9, 10 NIV

My prayers for you my friend have made me one of your stretcher bearers.
You are loved,
Lyndi

You Never Let Go

The Pig and the Billboard

String a pearl: This was one of my favorite in a long line of devotionals by Pastor and friend James Ryle.
http://jamesryle.blogspot.com/

"For God does speak—now one way, now another— though man may not perceive it."
(Job 33:14, NIV)

Years ago I was invited to conduct a training seminar in a neighboring city. I arrived at the pastor's house on the evening before the event was to begin and settled down for a good night's rest, but just before I fell asleep I saw a vision of a billboard alongside a highway. Standing in the grass beside the billboard was a little pink pig. I looked at the pig and asked the Lord, "What does that mean?" He did not answer me, so I began to think of all the verses in the Bible that mentioned pigs.

I thought maybe the Lord was trying to tell me that the people would be like the pigs that went back to wallow in the mud after they were cleansed; or that there would be demons in the meeting tomorrow, and that I was to cast them into pigs; or perhaps that I shouldn't even teach because it would be like casting my pearls before swine. I even thought maybe He was telling me not to look at any pretty girls who might be there because they could be like a gold ring in a pig's nose!

Obviously, I was being quite ridiculous in my efforts to solve this riddle. And despite my ardent efforts, I could not come up with anything that made sense out of this strange vision.
Finally I stopped and asked the Lord what He was trying to say to me. He said, "James, did you read the billboard?"

Ooops. I hadn't even thought about that. I couldn't recall the vision, so I was unable to say what had been on the billboard. I said, "Lord I'm sorry. I was so taken by the pig that I didn't even look at the billboard. What did it say?"

He showed me the vision again and I read the words that were written on the billboard: "Don't Be Distracted!"

I felt so foolish. The very thing that the Lord was trying to tell me not to do was exactly what I was doing! The Lord continued, "I am speaking to My people in billboards all of the time, but they are so distracted by the little pigs that they seldom ever notice what I am saying."

How about you....seen any pigs lately?

Changing the Face of Love

I must be getting old – a quick glance and I see my mother’s hands at the end of my arms – yes I am getting old. I think I’m getting a little cranky too because I do not like what I am seeing on TV. Pardon my spew but show after show after show and over half the commercials deal with illicit sexual content. What is that teaching our young people? Just this week the Parents Television Council reports the broadcast television networks favor adultery and promiscuity over marital intimacy, and in a new study, suggests that “many in Hollywood are actively seeking to undermine marriage by consistently showing it in a negative manner.” In addition the violence is so graphic and it’s ok to use foul language and use the Lord’s name in a disrespectful & highly offensive manner. The choices have grown very small as to what various age groups can view on TV these days. The Disney channel is about where regular TV was 40 years ago – in need of parental guidance. We’re down to a few game shows, sports, men quit laughing, and a small percentage of the reality shows. That’s about it.

I was reading in 1st Corinthians chapter 8 where Paul is addressing some of the issues of the day that members of the church had requested his counsel. And while I am aware he is addressing dietary issues the 9th verse just leapt off the page at me.

But food does not bring us near to God; we are no worse if we do not eat and no better if we do. Be careful, however, that the exercise of your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak. -- 1 Corinthians 8:8-9NIV

String a pearl: In the God’s Word translation, “But be careful that by using your freedom you don't somehow make a believer who is weak in faith fall into sin”.

Yep, that’s verse 9 again – different translation – yes I am repeating it – instant replay if that terminology is more comfortable. We have so much freedom in this country that we have run amok! We’re changing the face of love. What does TV show the face of love to be? Certainly not family – God maybe? Not on my TV. Wow, if this keeps up we’re all going to be forced to turn the big box off and talk to each other. Oh Revelation!

I don’t know what the face of God looks like but I love the familiar optical illusion of Him where truths about God are etched in His face. I think I would also see my husband, my family, my friends, my church and myself in the face of His love. You too?
You are loved,
Lyndi

Philosophy of "Peanuts"

The people who make a difference in your life are the ones who encourage you in your Christian walk, who encourage you with spiritual strength in times of trouble and the ones who help you see your value to the Kingdom of God.

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:11

A Symbol of Hope

Photo by Sandrine

As he looked up, Jesus saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. 'I tell you the truth,' he said, 'this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.’ Luke 21:1-4

Ruele Howe tells about growing up with his parents in the country. When he was 15 years old, the house caught on fire. They escaped with only the clothes on their backs. There were no close neighbors to help, so he and his father walked to a distant village to get supplies. As they returned they saw something that stayed with Ruele Howe all those years after. Beside the charred remains of what had been their house, his mother had laid out lunch on a log. She had placed a tin can filled with wildflowers on the log. It was a symbol of hope in the midst of tragedy.

This is the Christian faith, isn't it? She didn't try to cover up the disaster with flowers, but in the midst of that gloomy scene she had placed a symbol of hope.

The two coins that the widow placed in the temple treasury were her wildflowers. That was her symbol, her way of saying I know God will provide.

A pearl to string: How about you when you go through a valley or a desert trial?
What’s your symbol of hope? Do you put your trust in yourself or your capabilities? Do you fully rely on a doctor to give you all the answers? Must you have all the answers in a crisis? Are you content with the gifts God has given you or do you long for what others have? Are you waiting to be rescued? Do you need some hope? My symbol of hope is a saying I made up years ago. “One thing to remember about a desert experience – you’re only one S away from dessert.” Having a Savior is SWEET! Add an S to your desert!

'Call to me and I will answer you. I'll tell you marvelous and wondrous things that you could never figure out on your own.' Jeremiah 33:3

Lean into the Lord, read and learn from your Bible and symbols of hope will spring up all around you. There is hope everywhere BUT it’s not in the things seen - the things of this world. Hope is in that which is unseen. Real hope is in the real Lord.

You can shine
Under the Son
Lyndi