Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the slightly cloudy day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! As I stepped outside this morning, there was a really nice breeze blowing, and thin clouds were moving swiftly across the sky and the moon, which was still shining brightly. Beautiful!
I had a very humid walk yesterday and looked for Mama gator, but she must have been under the boardwalk. However...I thought I detected movement behind the nest in the dark water and underbrush and I am wondering if the babies, at least some of them have hatched out. The top of the nest looks a little disturbed, so maybe I will find out today . This is just about the time for the hatching!! God is good!
I also was pleased to see a moorhen couple at the tower. They mate for life, and I hadn't seen any for a while. They used to be plentiful at the Park, but gradually left for some reason. Maybe the hawks got them. Survival of the fittest.
From the Quiet Moments with God devotional:
In our busy world, we often ignore one another. Many of us are overworked and overextended, and we find that it's easy to make a habit of ignoring others, including those we love the most. But we can make a difference in the lives of the people around us by taking the time to listen to them--by showing them that they are precious to God and to us.
Jesus Christ said that the greatest commandment of all is to love one another and that His followers would be known by their love--a deep and abiding love. So today, as you go about your day, take a moment from your busyness. Make a call and tell a friend that you think she is special. Not only will you brighten up your friend's day, you'll also speak volumes to a hurting and neglected world.
John 15:17 "These things I command you; that you love one another."
Faith, like light, should always be simple and unbending; while love, like warmth, should beam forth on every side and bend to every necessity of our brethren.
Martin Luther
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, August 31, 2007
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Guidance
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the clear day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it!
When I stepped outside this morning, I noticed shadows under the trees and the whole street was brightly lit up from the brilliant moon. No eclipse this morning!
As I walked through the water in the Park yesterday; yes, there were puddles on the boardwalk, I didn't hear any frogs, for some reason. But the trees were still dripping from the rain the previous night, so it was a humid, but enjoyable walk.
Mama gator was not visible, but I think she is hiding behind the big mound of a nest, ready to climb on top when she hears the first grunt. They should be hatching any day now.
Have you noticed all the ibises in huge flocks that seem to be all over different neighborhoods? They are always so busy pecking and looking down. I saw one perched on top of a light pole the other day...he looked so funny up high! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT
How can I experience God's guidance?
Psalm 32:8 "The Lord says, "I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you."
Psalm 37:23,24 "The steps of the godly are directed by the Lord. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will not fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand."
Luke 12:6,7 "What is the price of five sparrows? A couple of pennies? Yet God does not forget a single one of them. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid: you are more valuable to him than a whole flock of sparrows."
Jesus gives this promise to all his followers. If God values the littlest things of his creation, how much more must he value us for whom he gave his own precious Son, When we are anxious or concerned, we need to remind ourselves that God does indeed care about us and is watching over us.
Jeremiah 29:11 " I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope."
God is always seeking the best future for us. There are times that we delay it through our disobedience, but when we come back to God, he is always ready to give us his best.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
When I stepped outside this morning, I noticed shadows under the trees and the whole street was brightly lit up from the brilliant moon. No eclipse this morning!
As I walked through the water in the Park yesterday; yes, there were puddles on the boardwalk, I didn't hear any frogs, for some reason. But the trees were still dripping from the rain the previous night, so it was a humid, but enjoyable walk.
Mama gator was not visible, but I think she is hiding behind the big mound of a nest, ready to climb on top when she hears the first grunt. They should be hatching any day now.
Have you noticed all the ibises in huge flocks that seem to be all over different neighborhoods? They are always so busy pecking and looking down. I saw one perched on top of a light pole the other day...he looked so funny up high! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT
How can I experience God's guidance?
Psalm 32:8 "The Lord says, "I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you."
Psalm 37:23,24 "The steps of the godly are directed by the Lord. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will not fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand."
Luke 12:6,7 "What is the price of five sparrows? A couple of pennies? Yet God does not forget a single one of them. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid: you are more valuable to him than a whole flock of sparrows."
Jesus gives this promise to all his followers. If God values the littlest things of his creation, how much more must he value us for whom he gave his own precious Son, When we are anxious or concerned, we need to remind ourselves that God does indeed care about us and is watching over us.
Jeremiah 29:11 " I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope."
God is always seeking the best future for us. There are times that we delay it through our disobedience, but when we come back to God, he is always ready to give us his best.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
God Knows!
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the clear day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! I hope some of you were up early enough the see the lunar eclipse. When I stepped outside at 5 AM the moon was shining brightly and would have been full except for the top, which had already been shadowed. Since it moved so fast, by 6 it was not visible in the Western sky.
God is Awesome!
Yesterday I think I spied Mama gator back at the side of her nest, but only because it looked like her eye. The time for hatching is growing close.
I was amused by the growing croaking of the frogs as I walked, The boardwalk was wet because of rain the night before and I guess they were hoping for more. The chorus had sopranos, tenors, bass croakers, and a few altos. I looked, but I couldn't see any of them.
I saw the chocolate bunny once again, munching beside the road. He is very pretty.
From the book Quiet Moments with God for Teachers:
Do you ever wonder if God has lost your address? Perhaps he has lost track of you or even forgotten you? God's Word answers that thought with a resounding, "Not so!"
Jesus taught his followers, " Are not two little sparrows sold for a penny? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father's leave [consent] and notice...fear not,then; you are of more value than many sparrows."( Matthew 10:29-11 AMP.)
The psalmist also recognized God's thorough and intimate knowledge of us. Read these words from Psalm 139 and be encouraged.
O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know when I sit or stand. When far away you know my every thought. You chart the path ahead of me, and tell me where to stop and rest. Every moment, you know where I am. You know what I am going to say before I even say it. You both precede and follow me, and place your hand of blessing on my head.
This is too glorious, too wonderful...I can never be lost to your Spirit! I can never get away from my God!...
You saw me before I was born and scheduled each day of my life before I began to breathe. Every day was recorded in your Book!
How precious it is, Lord, to realize that you are thinking about me constantly! I can't even count how many times a day your thoughts turn towards me. And when I waken in the morning, you are still thinking of me!
Psalm 139:1-7, 16-18 TLB
"Even the very hairs of your head are all numbered."
Matthew 10:30 Amp.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
God is Awesome!
Yesterday I think I spied Mama gator back at the side of her nest, but only because it looked like her eye. The time for hatching is growing close.
I was amused by the growing croaking of the frogs as I walked, The boardwalk was wet because of rain the night before and I guess they were hoping for more. The chorus had sopranos, tenors, bass croakers, and a few altos. I looked, but I couldn't see any of them.
I saw the chocolate bunny once again, munching beside the road. He is very pretty.
From the book Quiet Moments with God for Teachers:
Do you ever wonder if God has lost your address? Perhaps he has lost track of you or even forgotten you? God's Word answers that thought with a resounding, "Not so!"
Jesus taught his followers, " Are not two little sparrows sold for a penny? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father's leave [consent] and notice...fear not,then; you are of more value than many sparrows."( Matthew 10:29-11 AMP.)
The psalmist also recognized God's thorough and intimate knowledge of us. Read these words from Psalm 139 and be encouraged.
O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know when I sit or stand. When far away you know my every thought. You chart the path ahead of me, and tell me where to stop and rest. Every moment, you know where I am. You know what I am going to say before I even say it. You both precede and follow me, and place your hand of blessing on my head.
This is too glorious, too wonderful...I can never be lost to your Spirit! I can never get away from my God!...
You saw me before I was born and scheduled each day of my life before I began to breathe. Every day was recorded in your Book!
How precious it is, Lord, to realize that you are thinking about me constantly! I can't even count how many times a day your thoughts turn towards me. And when I waken in the morning, you are still thinking of me!
Psalm 139:1-7, 16-18 TLB
"Even the very hairs of your head are all numbered."
Matthew 10:30 Amp.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, August 27, 2007
Challenges
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the somewhat cooler day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! I saw many stars twinkling brightly for the first time in a long time, but I thought the moon was supposed to be full ...no sign of it. I will be able to tell if it is full if I can't sleep tonight. :o)
I was delighted to see a Cooper's hawk sitting on the wire by the lake near our house, yesterday. I don't see them so often. Also, Friday when I walked in the Park, Mama Gator was keeping vigil by the nest. Her babies should be breaking out toward the end of this week or next. What a blessed event!
I hear about lots of things going on in people's lives lately, so am sending these words about challenges from the Promise Bible NLT.
Why does God allow challenges in our lives?
James 1:2-4 "Dear brothers and sisters, whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything."
Challenges that threaten and try us are the very tools that God uses to strengthen and mature us. As we endure, we gain greater wisdom integrity, and courage to face whatever comes our way.
Are some challenges too small to bother god?
Psalm 37:5 "Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him and he will help you."
Nothing is too small for God. When we commit our plans to the Lord, he commits himself and his infinite resources to us.
What has God given me to help me face my challenges?
Joshua 1:7 "Be strong and very courageous. Obey all the laws Moses gave you. Do not turn away from them, and you will be successful in everything you do."
God has given us his word to direct us. The promise of success is embedded in our commitment to obedience.
1 Chronicles 28:20 "David continued, "Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Don't be afraid or discouraged by the size of the task, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. He will see to it that all the work related to the Temple of the Lord is finished correctly."
Instead of being discouraged by the size of the task, we should be encouraged by the limitless power of God.
And from Ecclesiastes 5:18-20:
"Even so, I have noticed one thing, at least, that is good. It is good for people to eat well, drink a good glass of wine, and enjoy their work-whatever they do under the sun--for however long God lets them live. And it is a good thing to receive wealth from God and the good health to enjoy it. To enjoy your work and accept your lot in life--that is indeed a gift from God. People who do this rarely look with sorrow on the past, for God has given them reasons for joy".
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs.
Amaryllis
I was delighted to see a Cooper's hawk sitting on the wire by the lake near our house, yesterday. I don't see them so often. Also, Friday when I walked in the Park, Mama Gator was keeping vigil by the nest. Her babies should be breaking out toward the end of this week or next. What a blessed event!
I hear about lots of things going on in people's lives lately, so am sending these words about challenges from the Promise Bible NLT.
Why does God allow challenges in our lives?
James 1:2-4 "Dear brothers and sisters, whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything."
Challenges that threaten and try us are the very tools that God uses to strengthen and mature us. As we endure, we gain greater wisdom integrity, and courage to face whatever comes our way.
Are some challenges too small to bother god?
Psalm 37:5 "Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him and he will help you."
Nothing is too small for God. When we commit our plans to the Lord, he commits himself and his infinite resources to us.
What has God given me to help me face my challenges?
Joshua 1:7 "Be strong and very courageous. Obey all the laws Moses gave you. Do not turn away from them, and you will be successful in everything you do."
God has given us his word to direct us. The promise of success is embedded in our commitment to obedience.
1 Chronicles 28:20 "David continued, "Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Don't be afraid or discouraged by the size of the task, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. He will see to it that all the work related to the Temple of the Lord is finished correctly."
Instead of being discouraged by the size of the task, we should be encouraged by the limitless power of God.
And from Ecclesiastes 5:18-20:
"Even so, I have noticed one thing, at least, that is good. It is good for people to eat well, drink a good glass of wine, and enjoy their work-whatever they do under the sun--for however long God lets them live. And it is a good thing to receive wealth from God and the good health to enjoy it. To enjoy your work and accept your lot in life--that is indeed a gift from God. People who do this rarely look with sorrow on the past, for God has given them reasons for joy".
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs.
Amaryllis
Friday, August 24, 2007
Energy
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside this morning, the air was not a tidge cooler like yesterday, in fact, it felt very warm. I could not see stars, or any moon-just hazy sky.
Yesterday, because we left the house so early, I saw the beautiful sunrise, all pink and blue. After we finished at the VA hospital, it was still very early, so I took a cruise through War Veterans Park - very few people there at that early hour, but it is a pretty park, right on Boca Ciega Bay.
Later, we went through Sawgrass, which was simmering in the heat, but I always enjoy the peace I feel there, and the anhingas drying their feathers. We also saw a gopher making his slow way in the bushes, and a great blue heron flying down the canal. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Energy
Why do I sometimes find myself weary and tired?
Isaiah 40:28,31 "Have you never heard or understood? Don't you know that the Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth? He never grows faint or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. He gives power to those who are tired and worn out.; he offers strength to the weak. Even youths will become exhausted, and young men will give up. But those who wait on the Lord will find new strength. They will fly high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. "
2 Corinthians 4:7 "This precious treasure-this light and power that now shine within us_is held in perishable containers, that is, in our weak bodies. So everyone can see that our glorious power is from God and is not our own."
As human beings we have limitations. We get hungry, tired and hurt. We are not self-sufficient. Instead of relying on ourselves, we need to rely on the Lord. Like the eagle that soars on currents of wind, we can trust the Lord to carry us onward.
Where do I turn for energy when I am feeling exhausted?
Matthew 11:28-30 "Jesus said ,"Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you , because I am humble and gentle, and you will find rest for your souls.For my yoke fits perfectly and the burden I give you is light."
Jesus invites us to come to him for rest from the weariness of life, strength for the burdens of life, and instruction for the puzzles and problems of life.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday, because we left the house so early, I saw the beautiful sunrise, all pink and blue. After we finished at the VA hospital, it was still very early, so I took a cruise through War Veterans Park - very few people there at that early hour, but it is a pretty park, right on Boca Ciega Bay.
Later, we went through Sawgrass, which was simmering in the heat, but I always enjoy the peace I feel there, and the anhingas drying their feathers. We also saw a gopher making his slow way in the bushes, and a great blue heron flying down the canal. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Energy
Why do I sometimes find myself weary and tired?
Isaiah 40:28,31 "Have you never heard or understood? Don't you know that the Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth? He never grows faint or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. He gives power to those who are tired and worn out.; he offers strength to the weak. Even youths will become exhausted, and young men will give up. But those who wait on the Lord will find new strength. They will fly high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. "
2 Corinthians 4:7 "This precious treasure-this light and power that now shine within us_is held in perishable containers, that is, in our weak bodies. So everyone can see that our glorious power is from God and is not our own."
As human beings we have limitations. We get hungry, tired and hurt. We are not self-sufficient. Instead of relying on ourselves, we need to rely on the Lord. Like the eagle that soars on currents of wind, we can trust the Lord to carry us onward.
Where do I turn for energy when I am feeling exhausted?
Matthew 11:28-30 "Jesus said ,"Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you , because I am humble and gentle, and you will find rest for your souls.For my yoke fits perfectly and the burden I give you is light."
Jesus invites us to come to him for rest from the weariness of life, strength for the burdens of life, and instruction for the puzzles and problems of life.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Breaking news!
Good evening, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! I hope you have had an enjoyable day that the Lord gave you.
The reason I am writing this tonight instead of tomorrow morning, is that we have to leave before seven in order to get to Bay Pines by 7:30 for a fasting appointment for Louis.
Anyway, the breaking news is that the Maple Trail at the Park is open after about six months of construction. I walked half of it this morning, but wanted to go check on Mama gator, which was the other way, so turned around and went back, and found her there, almost hidden in the black water and mud. Since she is black, too, it is really hard to spot her. I have a feeling she is under the boardwalk, when we can't see her. I have spotted a trail through the elephant ears which I think she has made going in and out. Just my theory...
Encouragement from the Promise Bible NLT
What do I do when I feel overhwelmed?
Leviticus 26:8 "Five of you will chase a hundred, and a hundred of you will chase ten thousand! All your enemies will fall beneath the blows of your weapons.
Joshua 23:10 "Each one of you will put to flight a thousand of the enemy, for the Lord your God fights for you, just as he has promised."
Be encouraged that the power of God is for us, regardless of the number of enemies against us. God used David to overcome Goliath. Gideon's three hundred soldiers to defeat the armies of Midian, and one hundred and twenty disciples to establish the church in Acts. He joys when working through our weaknesses and limitations.
Colossians 1:11-14 "We also pray that you will be strengthened with his glorious power so that you will have all the patience and endurance you need. May you be filled with joy, always thanking the Father, who has enables you to share the inheritance that belongs to God's holy people, who live in the light. For he has brought us into the Kingdom of his dear Son. God has purchased our freedom with his blood and has forgiven all our sins."
Our encouragement comes from what God has done for us. He has given us the power to be patient and persistent and to keep our minds set on the great hope that awaits us. When we remember that we are already free, the problems of the world lose much of their power over us.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
The reason I am writing this tonight instead of tomorrow morning, is that we have to leave before seven in order to get to Bay Pines by 7:30 for a fasting appointment for Louis.
Anyway, the breaking news is that the Maple Trail at the Park is open after about six months of construction. I walked half of it this morning, but wanted to go check on Mama gator, which was the other way, so turned around and went back, and found her there, almost hidden in the black water and mud. Since she is black, too, it is really hard to spot her. I have a feeling she is under the boardwalk, when we can't see her. I have spotted a trail through the elephant ears which I think she has made going in and out. Just my theory...
Encouragement from the Promise Bible NLT
What do I do when I feel overhwelmed?
Leviticus 26:8 "Five of you will chase a hundred, and a hundred of you will chase ten thousand! All your enemies will fall beneath the blows of your weapons.
Joshua 23:10 "Each one of you will put to flight a thousand of the enemy, for the Lord your God fights for you, just as he has promised."
Be encouraged that the power of God is for us, regardless of the number of enemies against us. God used David to overcome Goliath. Gideon's three hundred soldiers to defeat the armies of Midian, and one hundred and twenty disciples to establish the church in Acts. He joys when working through our weaknesses and limitations.
Colossians 1:11-14 "We also pray that you will be strengthened with his glorious power so that you will have all the patience and endurance you need. May you be filled with joy, always thanking the Father, who has enables you to share the inheritance that belongs to God's holy people, who live in the light. For he has brought us into the Kingdom of his dear Son. God has purchased our freedom with his blood and has forgiven all our sins."
Our encouragement comes from what God has done for us. He has given us the power to be patient and persistent and to keep our minds set on the great hope that awaits us. When we remember that we are already free, the problems of the world lose much of their power over us.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Decisions
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is another warm day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside this morning, the air was humid and very warm..I could see only a few stars, but I know it will get much warmer. Yesterday set a record for heat, but my walk in the morning, was very pleasant.
There was a good breeze blowing and it actually felt a little cooler. I watched Mark and James sawing a fallen tree in the canal, using a boat, front end loader and lots of muscle to get the tree across the water and up on the bank on the other side, to place it in the undergrowth and leave it for all kinds of critters to hide in. There's a lot of work that goes in to keeping the park looking nice and keep the water flowing. They also have to take care of Joe's Creek Park and Lealman Park, and will soon have the Friendship Trail and Pinellas Trail added to their responsibilities...just five guys to do all that work!
I did not see Mama gator for the second day, but four new signs are now posted warning about severe consequences if anyone bothers her or any of the other gators. I hope they do some good. If I walk early enough today, perhaps Mama will be back . God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT
What do we do when we don't know what to do?
2 Chronicles 20:12 "O our God, won't you stop them? We are powerless against this mighty army that is about to attack us. We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help."
We don't have to know what do do, but we do need to know where to look. As the saying goes, it isn't so much what we know, but WHO we know!
Proverbs 3:5-7 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, do not depend on your own understanding. Seek him in all you do, and he will direct your paths. Don't be impressed with your own wisdom, . Instead, fear the Lord and turn your back on evil."
Trust the Lord to direct your steps, even when the way is confusing. God will guide you.
Romans 8:26-27 "The Holy Spirit helps us in our distress. For we don't even know what we should pray for , nor how we should pray. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God's own will."
When we are overwhelmed, confused, or uncertain, we should not hesitate to pray. In fact, these are the best times to pray because the Holy Spirit can then help us the most. We describe our situation and trust God to prescribe the solution.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
There was a good breeze blowing and it actually felt a little cooler. I watched Mark and James sawing a fallen tree in the canal, using a boat, front end loader and lots of muscle to get the tree across the water and up on the bank on the other side, to place it in the undergrowth and leave it for all kinds of critters to hide in. There's a lot of work that goes in to keeping the park looking nice and keep the water flowing. They also have to take care of Joe's Creek Park and Lealman Park, and will soon have the Friendship Trail and Pinellas Trail added to their responsibilities...just five guys to do all that work!
I did not see Mama gator for the second day, but four new signs are now posted warning about severe consequences if anyone bothers her or any of the other gators. I hope they do some good. If I walk early enough today, perhaps Mama will be back . God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT
What do we do when we don't know what to do?
2 Chronicles 20:12 "O our God, won't you stop them? We are powerless against this mighty army that is about to attack us. We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help."
We don't have to know what do do, but we do need to know where to look. As the saying goes, it isn't so much what we know, but WHO we know!
Proverbs 3:5-7 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, do not depend on your own understanding. Seek him in all you do, and he will direct your paths. Don't be impressed with your own wisdom, . Instead, fear the Lord and turn your back on evil."
Trust the Lord to direct your steps, even when the way is confusing. God will guide you.
Romans 8:26-27 "The Holy Spirit helps us in our distress. For we don't even know what we should pray for , nor how we should pray. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God's own will."
When we are overwhelmed, confused, or uncertain, we should not hesitate to pray. In fact, these are the best times to pray because the Holy Spirit can then help us the most. We describe our situation and trust God to prescribe the solution.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Good warm morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! As I stepped outside this morning, I could see stars dimly through the haze and a few puffy clouds. We still have water running in our gutters, even though there has been no rain this week. But the ducks like it!
As I walked yesterday, there was a nice breeze blowing, which helped with the cooling. Mama gator was not visible, so I don't know if she was under the boardwalk, or stepped out for breakfast. I stopped at the second level of the tower to enjoy the breeze and watch the skimmers swooping low on the water for a tasty fish, and on my way back, I noticed the larger gator had climbed up on the bank to enjoy the sun. He looked like the same one that swam so fast under the tower the other day. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT
When I am confused, where do I turn for clarity, wisdom, understanding and direction?
James 1:5-8 "If you need wisdom__if you want o know what God wants you to do__ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. People like that should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. They can't make up their minds. They waver back and forth in everything they do."
Psalm 119:125 "Give discernment to me , your servant, then I will understand your decrees."
Discernment is the ability to interpret events and to understand the true nature of people and situations. Discernment is an aspect of wisdom. It enables us to see behind the facades that mask the truth. Discernment shows us the way through confusion and distractions. Whereas the devil is the "father of lies," God is the father of the truth, and he gives discernment to those who seek it.
1 Corinthians 2:12-16"God has actually given us his Spirit (not the world's spirit) so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us. When we tell you this, we do not use words of human wisdom. We speak words given to us by the Spirit, using the Spirit's words to explain spiritual truths from God's Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them because only those who have the Spirit understand these things, but others can't understand us at all. How could they? For, "Who can know what the Lord is thinking? Who can give him counsel?" But we can understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ."
Those who believe in Jesus Christ will find that God gives them a new perspective on life. We have the mind of Christ, coming primarily from God's word. It also comes through the Holy Spirit's guiding our thought and decisions.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
As I walked yesterday, there was a nice breeze blowing, which helped with the cooling. Mama gator was not visible, so I don't know if she was under the boardwalk, or stepped out for breakfast. I stopped at the second level of the tower to enjoy the breeze and watch the skimmers swooping low on the water for a tasty fish, and on my way back, I noticed the larger gator had climbed up on the bank to enjoy the sun. He looked like the same one that swam so fast under the tower the other day. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT
When I am confused, where do I turn for clarity, wisdom, understanding and direction?
James 1:5-8 "If you need wisdom__if you want o know what God wants you to do__ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. People like that should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. They can't make up their minds. They waver back and forth in everything they do."
Psalm 119:125 "Give discernment to me , your servant, then I will understand your decrees."
Discernment is the ability to interpret events and to understand the true nature of people and situations. Discernment is an aspect of wisdom. It enables us to see behind the facades that mask the truth. Discernment shows us the way through confusion and distractions. Whereas the devil is the "father of lies," God is the father of the truth, and he gives discernment to those who seek it.
1 Corinthians 2:12-16"God has actually given us his Spirit (not the world's spirit) so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us. When we tell you this, we do not use words of human wisdom. We speak words given to us by the Spirit, using the Spirit's words to explain spiritual truths from God's Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them because only those who have the Spirit understand these things, but others can't understand us at all. How could they? For, "Who can know what the Lord is thinking? Who can give him counsel?" But we can understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ."
Those who believe in Jesus Christ will find that God gives them a new perspective on life. We have the mind of Christ, coming primarily from God's word. It also comes through the Holy Spirit's guiding our thought and decisions.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, August 20, 2007
As Time Goes By (a repeat)
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is another warm day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! I notice on my weather report that the heat index is to be 106 this afternoon!! Thank God for A/C!
If I don't get my walking done in the morning, I don't walk, because the air is too hot!
I walked Saturday and as we drove in the Park, a chocolate colored bunny, with unusual outlined eyes, was munching on grass beside the road. It must have been a domestic that someone turned loose in the Park, Not a good thing to do.
Mama Gator was back at her nest, but I almost didn't see her, because she was directly below me with just her head showing. When I came back from the tower, she had moved and was pointed toward the nest.
I watched a small gator swim alongside the bank, on my way back and climb up on the bank, where he has been sunning every day the past week.
Then I waited while Mark and James came in their cart, on the way to clean out trash in the gator nest. I told them she was there, and there was only one bottle right next to her. They thought maybe it would not be a good time to get the bottle. :o)
From Quiet Moments:
"This is the day which the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
Psalm 118:24 NKJV
"Where does the time go?" we ask. Here it is-a new day on the horizon- and we can't remember how it arrived so quickly. Why, last week seems like yesterday, and last year flew by like a video in fast forward.
Singer Jim Croce mused in his hit song "Time in a Bottle" that "there never seems to be enough time to do the things you want to do, once you find them." We search so hard for happiness. But often, we don't understand that happiness is not a goal to be won, but a by-product of a life well spent.
The "Old English Prayer," offers simple instruction for enjoying the day that the Lord has made:
Take time to work; it is the price of success.
Take time to think' it is the source of power.
Take time to play; it is the secret if perpetual youth.
Take time to read; it is the foundation of wisdom.
Take time to be friendly, it is the road to happiness.
Take time to dream; it is hitching your wagon to a star.
Take time to love and be loved; it is the privilege of the gods.
Take time to look around, it is too short a day to be selfish.
Take time to laugh, it is the music of the soul.
True happiness comes
from the job of deeds
well done, the zest of
creating things new.
Antoine de Saint Exupery
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
If I don't get my walking done in the morning, I don't walk, because the air is too hot!
I walked Saturday and as we drove in the Park, a chocolate colored bunny, with unusual outlined eyes, was munching on grass beside the road. It must have been a domestic that someone turned loose in the Park, Not a good thing to do.
Mama Gator was back at her nest, but I almost didn't see her, because she was directly below me with just her head showing. When I came back from the tower, she had moved and was pointed toward the nest.
I watched a small gator swim alongside the bank, on my way back and climb up on the bank, where he has been sunning every day the past week.
Then I waited while Mark and James came in their cart, on the way to clean out trash in the gator nest. I told them she was there, and there was only one bottle right next to her. They thought maybe it would not be a good time to get the bottle. :o)
From Quiet Moments:
"This is the day which the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
Psalm 118:24 NKJV
"Where does the time go?" we ask. Here it is-a new day on the horizon- and we can't remember how it arrived so quickly. Why, last week seems like yesterday, and last year flew by like a video in fast forward.
Singer Jim Croce mused in his hit song "Time in a Bottle" that "there never seems to be enough time to do the things you want to do, once you find them." We search so hard for happiness. But often, we don't understand that happiness is not a goal to be won, but a by-product of a life well spent.
The "Old English Prayer," offers simple instruction for enjoying the day that the Lord has made:
Take time to work; it is the price of success.
Take time to think' it is the source of power.
Take time to play; it is the secret if perpetual youth.
Take time to read; it is the foundation of wisdom.
Take time to be friendly, it is the road to happiness.
Take time to dream; it is hitching your wagon to a star.
Take time to love and be loved; it is the privilege of the gods.
Take time to look around, it is too short a day to be selfish.
Take time to laugh, it is the music of the soul.
True happiness comes
from the job of deeds
well done, the zest of
creating things new.
Antoine de Saint Exupery
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, August 17, 2007
Calming Down
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it!
We went to bed to the sounds of another thunderstorm, which started right after we arrived home from an evening out. God's timing is perfect!
I splashed through water yesterday on the boardwalk, and I am sure it will be wet again, after the downpour last night. All is well, though, with Mama gator. She was back at the nest yesterday, with just her head visible directly below the railing. I spoke to her and told her I was glad to see her, but she was surly and didn't answer. Sigh...
The small gator was sunning on the bank again and getting plenty warm, I'm sure. It was a pleasant walk yesterday, because the wind was blowing so that made the heat bearable. When I stopped, though, I was drippy. But God is good to send rain and wind when we need them!
From Quiet Moments with God:
Jeremiah 31:26
"My sleep had been pleasant to me."
It's virtually impossible for you to sleep if you are wound up. Do memories of the day's events keep you from falling asleep? Do you sometimes feel as if you spent the day pushing a boulder up a mountain with a very small stick? If so, memorize these words:
"I lift up my eyes to the hills__Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth."
Psalm 121:1-2
Are you worried about making mistakes, disappointing your boss, or letting your family down? If so, memorize these words:
"He will not let your foot slip-he who watches over you will not slumber, indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
Psalm 121:3-4
Does unnecessary anxiety sometimes get the best of you, causing you to fear for your won safety or health? If so, memorize these words:
"The Lord watches over you___the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night."
Psalm 121:5-6
Are you already starting to agonize over next month's deadline, next year's taxes, the college tuition that has to be paid ten years from now, or funding your own retirement in thirty years? Are you taking all of that on when your head hits the pillow at night? If so, memorize these words:
"The Lord will keep you from all harm-he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore."
Psalm 121:7-8
You have just memorized an entire psalm! Repeat it to yourself every night. Substitute My for your and me for you. Then rest in the knowledge that God has your life, and the rest of the universe under control.
WORRY IS AN INDICATION THAT WE THINK GOD CANNOT LOOK AFTER US.
Oswald Chambers
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
We went to bed to the sounds of another thunderstorm, which started right after we arrived home from an evening out. God's timing is perfect!
I splashed through water yesterday on the boardwalk, and I am sure it will be wet again, after the downpour last night. All is well, though, with Mama gator. She was back at the nest yesterday, with just her head visible directly below the railing. I spoke to her and told her I was glad to see her, but she was surly and didn't answer. Sigh...
The small gator was sunning on the bank again and getting plenty warm, I'm sure. It was a pleasant walk yesterday, because the wind was blowing so that made the heat bearable. When I stopped, though, I was drippy. But God is good to send rain and wind when we need them!
From Quiet Moments with God:
Jeremiah 31:26
"My sleep had been pleasant to me."
It's virtually impossible for you to sleep if you are wound up. Do memories of the day's events keep you from falling asleep? Do you sometimes feel as if you spent the day pushing a boulder up a mountain with a very small stick? If so, memorize these words:
"I lift up my eyes to the hills__Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth."
Psalm 121:1-2
Are you worried about making mistakes, disappointing your boss, or letting your family down? If so, memorize these words:
"He will not let your foot slip-he who watches over you will not slumber, indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
Psalm 121:3-4
Does unnecessary anxiety sometimes get the best of you, causing you to fear for your won safety or health? If so, memorize these words:
"The Lord watches over you___the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night."
Psalm 121:5-6
Are you already starting to agonize over next month's deadline, next year's taxes, the college tuition that has to be paid ten years from now, or funding your own retirement in thirty years? Are you taking all of that on when your head hits the pillow at night? If so, memorize these words:
"The Lord will keep you from all harm-he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore."
Psalm 121:7-8
You have just memorized an entire psalm! Repeat it to yourself every night. Substitute My for your and me for you. Then rest in the knowledge that God has your life, and the rest of the universe under control.
WORRY IS AN INDICATION THAT WE THINK GOD CANNOT LOOK AFTER US.
Oswald Chambers
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Night Watch
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! After last night's storm, this morning is clear and promises to be hot!
I walked on the dry boardwalk yesterday, but today it will be puddly again. I am eager to see if Mama gator has come back, because two days in a row she has not been seen. I hope she has not deserted her nest.
It seemed to be just a little cooler yesterday, or at least, a breeze was blowing, so I wasn't so warm while walking... plenty drippy when I stopped moving, though. I was admiring the thick ferns, which are thriving from all the rain. Many of them are in water, and tiny sounds are always being heard, from the different little critters living in the water. God is marvelous!
From Quiet Moments:
...Times of trial and struggle often seem like long, dark nights. But doing the right thing - even the hard thing - gives us hope. How do we maintain those long night watches when there seems to be little change in our circumstances?
1. Take one step at a time. Don't attempt to tackle the whole task at once. "A man's steps are directed by the Lord." (Proverbs 20:24)
2. Keep your struggles in perspective. Separate the mountains from the molehills.
"What then shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31)
3. Cultivate the discipline of delayed gratification.
"Let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."(James 1:4 KJV)
4. Learn to recognize the invisible God in the world around you.
"By faith he [Moses] left Egypt, not fearing the king's anger; he persevered because he saw him who is invisible." (Hebrews 11:27)
Placing your hope in the Lord helps you to do all these things. He will lead you; He will remove your mountains; He will strengthen you, helping you to be patient; and He will open your eyes to His works all around you.
If it were not for hope
the heart would break.
English proverb
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I walked on the dry boardwalk yesterday, but today it will be puddly again. I am eager to see if Mama gator has come back, because two days in a row she has not been seen. I hope she has not deserted her nest.
It seemed to be just a little cooler yesterday, or at least, a breeze was blowing, so I wasn't so warm while walking... plenty drippy when I stopped moving, though. I was admiring the thick ferns, which are thriving from all the rain. Many of them are in water, and tiny sounds are always being heard, from the different little critters living in the water. God is marvelous!
From Quiet Moments:
...Times of trial and struggle often seem like long, dark nights. But doing the right thing - even the hard thing - gives us hope. How do we maintain those long night watches when there seems to be little change in our circumstances?
1. Take one step at a time. Don't attempt to tackle the whole task at once. "A man's steps are directed by the Lord." (Proverbs 20:24)
2. Keep your struggles in perspective. Separate the mountains from the molehills.
"What then shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31)
3. Cultivate the discipline of delayed gratification.
"Let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."(James 1:4 KJV)
4. Learn to recognize the invisible God in the world around you.
"By faith he [Moses] left Egypt, not fearing the king's anger; he persevered because he saw him who is invisible." (Hebrews 11:27)
Placing your hope in the Lord helps you to do all these things. He will lead you; He will remove your mountains; He will strengthen you, helping you to be patient; and He will open your eyes to His works all around you.
If it were not for hope
the heart would break.
English proverb
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Excerpts from Ecclesiastes
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the cloudy day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! As I stepped outside this morning, I looked for stars, and hoped I could see a meteor flashing by, but there was too much light and the puffy clouds interfered. Has anyone seed the meteors, yet? This is the week for them.
Well, I heard thunder late last night, but we did not get any rain. However, our gutters are still running with water, which the ducks really like.
I splashed through the water on the boardwalk once again, yesterday. When I got through my walk, I was dripping! Mama gator was out getting breakfast, I guess, or hidden on the other side of the nest, because she was not visible. If the rain keeps up, there will be plenty of water for the babies when they hatch. I like to hear them grunt when they come out and after they start moving around.
I was in time, as I walked to the tower, to see the six or seven footer come swimming swiftly in to head under the tower, and as I started up the steps, I heard a tremendous thump and splash and out he came, with a hydrilla leaf on his head. He must have found something to eat underneath in the thick hydrilla. God is good!
From Ecclesiastes 4,5,and 8 NLT
"Two people can accomplish more than twice as much as one; they get a better return for their labor. If one person fails, the other can reach out and help. But people who are alone when they fall are in real trouble. And on a cold night, two under the same blanket can gain warmth from each other. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken."
"People who work hard sleep well, whether they eat little or much. But the rich are always worrying and seldom get a good night's sleep."
"And it is a good thing to receive wealth from God and the good health to enjoy it. To enjoy your work and accept your lot in life--that is indeed a gift from God. People who do this rarely look with sorrow on the past, for God has given them reasons for joy."
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Well, I heard thunder late last night, but we did not get any rain. However, our gutters are still running with water, which the ducks really like.
I splashed through the water on the boardwalk once again, yesterday. When I got through my walk, I was dripping! Mama gator was out getting breakfast, I guess, or hidden on the other side of the nest, because she was not visible. If the rain keeps up, there will be plenty of water for the babies when they hatch. I like to hear them grunt when they come out and after they start moving around.
I was in time, as I walked to the tower, to see the six or seven footer come swimming swiftly in to head under the tower, and as I started up the steps, I heard a tremendous thump and splash and out he came, with a hydrilla leaf on his head. He must have found something to eat underneath in the thick hydrilla. God is good!
From Ecclesiastes 4,5,and 8 NLT
"Two people can accomplish more than twice as much as one; they get a better return for their labor. If one person fails, the other can reach out and help. But people who are alone when they fall are in real trouble. And on a cold night, two under the same blanket can gain warmth from each other. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken."
"People who work hard sleep well, whether they eat little or much. But the rich are always worrying and seldom get a good night's sleep."
"And it is a good thing to receive wealth from God and the good health to enjoy it. To enjoy your work and accept your lot in life--that is indeed a gift from God. People who do this rarely look with sorrow on the past, for God has given them reasons for joy."
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Confidence
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the beautiful sunrise day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it!
Wow! We went to bed last night to thunder and lightning and pouring rain! That was unexpected, because I thought rain was not predicted. Oh, well, the weatherman has been wrong before!
The boardwalk at the Park was still wet from rain Sunday, so I splashed through the puddles on my walk, but, unfortunately, they did not keep me cool. I spoke to Mama gator, still guarding faithfully at the base of the nest. In case I hadn't told you, the nest is about three ft. high, and the eggs are buried at the top, with trees and stuff growing all over the mound. Not like a bird's nest or a chicken nest.
Amazingly, no trash was in the nesting area, so maybe the signs are doing some good!
As I walked to the tower, I heard the chirping of a bird and looked carefully, and saw a blackbird in a tree, just sitting there chirping. He kept it up the whole time I was looking around and seemed content to stay in one spot. God is amazing!!
From the Promise Bible NLT
Where do we find confidence for every day?
Psalm 27:1 "The Lord is my light and my salvation-so why should I be afraid?
Psalm 121:8 The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever."
John 16:33 " I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world."
Many of the greatest athletes say that their real contest is a mental, not a physical one. It's the same way in our spiritual life. Our confidence comes not from looking around at our physical circumstances, but from looking to God.
How can we have confidence in the face of life's greatest hardships?
Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your paths."
When we rely on God, he will not let us down. Our limited understanding is no match for his limitless love and grace.
Philippians 4:11-13 "Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to get along happily whether I have much or little. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need."
Our happiness rises and falls, but our steady confidence comes from the consistency of Christ.-not in circumstances.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wow! We went to bed last night to thunder and lightning and pouring rain! That was unexpected, because I thought rain was not predicted. Oh, well, the weatherman has been wrong before!
The boardwalk at the Park was still wet from rain Sunday, so I splashed through the puddles on my walk, but, unfortunately, they did not keep me cool. I spoke to Mama gator, still guarding faithfully at the base of the nest. In case I hadn't told you, the nest is about three ft. high, and the eggs are buried at the top, with trees and stuff growing all over the mound. Not like a bird's nest or a chicken nest.
Amazingly, no trash was in the nesting area, so maybe the signs are doing some good!
As I walked to the tower, I heard the chirping of a bird and looked carefully, and saw a blackbird in a tree, just sitting there chirping. He kept it up the whole time I was looking around and seemed content to stay in one spot. God is amazing!!
From the Promise Bible NLT
Where do we find confidence for every day?
Psalm 27:1 "The Lord is my light and my salvation-so why should I be afraid?
Psalm 121:8 The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever."
John 16:33 " I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world."
Many of the greatest athletes say that their real contest is a mental, not a physical one. It's the same way in our spiritual life. Our confidence comes not from looking around at our physical circumstances, but from looking to God.
How can we have confidence in the face of life's greatest hardships?
Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your paths."
When we rely on God, he will not let us down. Our limited understanding is no match for his limitless love and grace.
Philippians 4:11-13 "Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to get along happily whether I have much or little. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need."
Our happiness rises and falls, but our steady confidence comes from the consistency of Christ.-not in circumstances.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, August 13, 2007
Phillippians 4:13
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the slightly cooler day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! I noticed on my daily weather prediction that the heat index is not supposed to reach 100 today! What a blessing!
I had a fairly quiet weekend, trying to stay indoors and cool. We rode through the Park a couple times, and it always looks so peaceful and calm. We have had some rain, both days and that keeps the water up at the park. Speaking of that, there is a picture of a gator taken at Sawgrass, in the Times classified this morning.
Yesterday, I saw another roseate spoonbill at the lake near us. What beautiful pinks. I don't think the bird even knows how beautiful he is! God is good!!!
From Quiet Moments for Teachers:
What's the problem?
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13
...The developer of a popular series of business training films describes the phenomenon of discovering your problem solving skills are going nowhere.
You start thinking, I'm uncomfortable, I'm anxious ..I can't do this. I should never have started to try. I'm not creative. I was never creative in school. I'm a complete failure. I'm going to be fired... in other words you start enjoying a real, good, old-fashioned panic attack.
Problems can feel ten times larger in the middle of the night. But in reality--and by daylight--solutions might not be as distant as they seem.
Inventor Charles Kettering had a unique problem-solving method. He would divide each problem into the smallest possible pieces, then research the pieces to determine which ones had already been solved. He often found that what looked like a huge problem was already 98 percent solved by others. Then he tackled what was left.
In bite-sized pieces, problems become more manageable. Remember that with God, all things are possible. He can give us peace in our darkest nights and bring wisdom with the morning.
Obstacles in the pathway of the weak become stepping stones in the pathway of the strong.
Thomas Carlyle
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I had a fairly quiet weekend, trying to stay indoors and cool. We rode through the Park a couple times, and it always looks so peaceful and calm. We have had some rain, both days and that keeps the water up at the park. Speaking of that, there is a picture of a gator taken at Sawgrass, in the Times classified this morning.
Yesterday, I saw another roseate spoonbill at the lake near us. What beautiful pinks. I don't think the bird even knows how beautiful he is! God is good!!!
From Quiet Moments for Teachers:
What's the problem?
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13
...The developer of a popular series of business training films describes the phenomenon of discovering your problem solving skills are going nowhere.
You start thinking, I'm uncomfortable, I'm anxious ..I can't do this. I should never have started to try. I'm not creative. I was never creative in school. I'm a complete failure. I'm going to be fired... in other words you start enjoying a real, good, old-fashioned panic attack.
Problems can feel ten times larger in the middle of the night. But in reality--and by daylight--solutions might not be as distant as they seem.
Inventor Charles Kettering had a unique problem-solving method. He would divide each problem into the smallest possible pieces, then research the pieces to determine which ones had already been solved. He often found that what looked like a huge problem was already 98 percent solved by others. Then he tackled what was left.
In bite-sized pieces, problems become more manageable. Remember that with God, all things are possible. He can give us peace in our darkest nights and bring wisdom with the morning.
Obstacles in the pathway of the weak become stepping stones in the pathway of the strong.
Thomas Carlyle
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, August 10, 2007
Change
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is another hot day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside this morning, I noticed the tiny sliver of the moon, so tomorrow is the day I won't see it for awhile.
Due to the rain lately, our Mexican petunias are blooming abundantly and very pretty. The purple blooms only last for a day, but many are left to open the next day.
I had a very warm, breezeless walk yesterday and spoke to Mama gator, who was on the left side of the nest. I wonder if she is getting ready for the hatching of the babies? They should be popping out the end of this month or the first of Sept. Then as I got to the tower, I watched clear across the lake as a gator swam on the far side.
When I started back, the same small gator that had been on the bank the day before, was curled up in the same spot again. God is good!
From Quiet Moments with God
Hebrews 6:11 "We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure."
...Change takes place in all our lives. One season ends and another begins. We may say good-bye to a job, a relationship, a town, or a dream. With each ending, we have a choice. We can walk away without looking back, ignoring the closure and attention that's needed, or we can take the time to finish well-to tie up loose ends, to say our good-byes, to work hard right to the end. Only then can we know we have closed out the old chapter with integrity.
Is there an area of your life that needs attention today? Something that needs to be finished well? Take a moment and ask God to help you close the door. then you can face your new beginning with confidence.
The crossroads are down here. Which way to pull the rein? The left brings you but loss. The right nothing but gain.
Angelus Silesius
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love.
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Due to the rain lately, our Mexican petunias are blooming abundantly and very pretty. The purple blooms only last for a day, but many are left to open the next day.
I had a very warm, breezeless walk yesterday and spoke to Mama gator, who was on the left side of the nest. I wonder if she is getting ready for the hatching of the babies? They should be popping out the end of this month or the first of Sept. Then as I got to the tower, I watched clear across the lake as a gator swam on the far side.
When I started back, the same small gator that had been on the bank the day before, was curled up in the same spot again. God is good!
From Quiet Moments with God
Hebrews 6:11 "We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure."
...Change takes place in all our lives. One season ends and another begins. We may say good-bye to a job, a relationship, a town, or a dream. With each ending, we have a choice. We can walk away without looking back, ignoring the closure and attention that's needed, or we can take the time to finish well-to tie up loose ends, to say our good-byes, to work hard right to the end. Only then can we know we have closed out the old chapter with integrity.
Is there an area of your life that needs attention today? Something that needs to be finished well? Take a moment and ask God to help you close the door. then you can face your new beginning with confidence.
The crossroads are down here. Which way to pull the rein? The left brings you but loss. The right nothing but gain.
Angelus Silesius
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love.
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, August 9, 2007
Psoaring thru Psalms
Good morning Dear Friends and Prayer Partners. This is the very warm day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it!
When I stepped outside this morning, it felt like a sauna, but the thin sliver of the moon was valiantly shining in the hazy eastern sky. Tomorrow it may not be visible.
I took a very, warm walk yesterday morning, but saw a young gator sunning on the bank across the canal, where I saw the huge one a couple weeks ago. Then I walked a little further, and saw Mama gator on the watch. Apparently, the signs are not being read, because a plastic bottle was by her head. I had talked with Terry for a few minutes before my walk, and he said the signs would not be effective. He is right.
Anyway, I kept on going to the tower and was in time to see another gator swimming quickly for the shelter of the tower, He was about 8 ft. long, and in a big hurry. As he reached the tower, he quit swimming and coasted right underneath me. I could see his legs pulled back as he coasted.
I also noticed a bit of beauty as a cardinal perched on the shelter roof and sang his happy tune for a few minutes. God is Awesome!
From the Promise Bible, Psalm 34 NLT
"I will praise the Lord at all times.
I will constantly speak his praises.
I will boast only in the Lord,
Let all who are discouraged take heart.
Come, let us tell of the Lord's greatness,
let us exalt his name together....
Taste and see that the Lord is good.
Oh, the joys of those who trust in Him!
Let the Lord's people show him reverence,
for those who honor him will have all they need.
Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry,
but those who trust in the Lord
will never lack any good thing.
Come, my children, and listen to me,
and I will teach you to fear the Lord.
Do any of you want to live
a life that is long and good?
Then watch your tongue!
Keep your lips from telling lies!
Turn away from evil and do good.
Work hard at living in peace with others.
The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right;
his ears are open to their cries for help.
The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help.
He rescues them from all their troubles.
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.
He rescues those who are crushed in spirit.
Blessed be the name of the Lord!!
I always thank God for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
amaryllis
When I stepped outside this morning, it felt like a sauna, but the thin sliver of the moon was valiantly shining in the hazy eastern sky. Tomorrow it may not be visible.
I took a very, warm walk yesterday morning, but saw a young gator sunning on the bank across the canal, where I saw the huge one a couple weeks ago. Then I walked a little further, and saw Mama gator on the watch. Apparently, the signs are not being read, because a plastic bottle was by her head. I had talked with Terry for a few minutes before my walk, and he said the signs would not be effective. He is right.
Anyway, I kept on going to the tower and was in time to see another gator swimming quickly for the shelter of the tower, He was about 8 ft. long, and in a big hurry. As he reached the tower, he quit swimming and coasted right underneath me. I could see his legs pulled back as he coasted.
I also noticed a bit of beauty as a cardinal perched on the shelter roof and sang his happy tune for a few minutes. God is Awesome!
From the Promise Bible, Psalm 34 NLT
"I will praise the Lord at all times.
I will constantly speak his praises.
I will boast only in the Lord,
Let all who are discouraged take heart.
Come, let us tell of the Lord's greatness,
let us exalt his name together....
Taste and see that the Lord is good.
Oh, the joys of those who trust in Him!
Let the Lord's people show him reverence,
for those who honor him will have all they need.
Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry,
but those who trust in the Lord
will never lack any good thing.
Come, my children, and listen to me,
and I will teach you to fear the Lord.
Do any of you want to live
a life that is long and good?
Then watch your tongue!
Keep your lips from telling lies!
Turn away from evil and do good.
Work hard at living in peace with others.
The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right;
his ears are open to their cries for help.
The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help.
He rescues them from all their troubles.
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.
He rescues those who are crushed in spirit.
Blessed be the name of the Lord!!
I always thank God for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
amaryllis
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
More Cruisin; thru Corinthians
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is another warm day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! We had an unexpected rainstorm yesterday that took me by surprise! I had no idea it had rained until I came out of the salon and saw water all over the streets!
I did not walk yesterday, because it was too hot by the time I was ready to go. However, I did drive through and saw a couple peacocks, a heron intent on finding an unwary fish in front him, and the ever present anhingas. The work seems to be progressing on time, although they had to take last Thursday off because of the rain all day.
I was pleased to look out our front window yesterday and see lots of little blackbirds pecking around on our lawn...it looked like the migration that takes place in the fall! We have more baby ducks in the neighborhood, and while they are really cute when they are fuzzy, I have to keep chasing them out of our trees, because they make an unpleasant mess on the ground. Oh, well, God created them, too!
Excerpts from 1 Corinthians 3 NLT
"...The ones who do the planting or watering aren't important, but God is important because he is the one who makes the seed grow. The one who plants and the one who waters work as a team with the same purpose. Yet they will be rewarded individually, according to their own hard work. We work together as partners who belong to God."
...."But there is going to come a time of testing at the judgement day to see what kind of work each builder has done. Everyone's work will be put through the fire to see whether or not it keeps its value.If the work survives the fire, that builder will receive a reward. But if the work is burned up, the builder will suffer great loss. The builders themselves will be saved, but like someone escaping through a wall of flames....
"God watches those who think they are wise in their own cleverness.
"The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, and they are worthless.
...You belong to Christ and Christ belongs to God."
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I did not walk yesterday, because it was too hot by the time I was ready to go. However, I did drive through and saw a couple peacocks, a heron intent on finding an unwary fish in front him, and the ever present anhingas. The work seems to be progressing on time, although they had to take last Thursday off because of the rain all day.
I was pleased to look out our front window yesterday and see lots of little blackbirds pecking around on our lawn...it looked like the migration that takes place in the fall! We have more baby ducks in the neighborhood, and while they are really cute when they are fuzzy, I have to keep chasing them out of our trees, because they make an unpleasant mess on the ground. Oh, well, God created them, too!
Excerpts from 1 Corinthians 3 NLT
"...The ones who do the planting or watering aren't important, but God is important because he is the one who makes the seed grow. The one who plants and the one who waters work as a team with the same purpose. Yet they will be rewarded individually, according to their own hard work. We work together as partners who belong to God."
...."But there is going to come a time of testing at the judgement day to see what kind of work each builder has done. Everyone's work will be put through the fire to see whether or not it keeps its value.If the work survives the fire, that builder will receive a reward. But if the work is burned up, the builder will suffer great loss. The builders themselves will be saved, but like someone escaping through a wall of flames....
"God watches those who think they are wise in their own cleverness.
"The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, and they are worthless.
...You belong to Christ and Christ belongs to God."
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
The Love Chapter
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is another warm day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it!
When I stepped outside this morning, I could see the slim crescent moon shining brightly through the haze that seems to be covering the sky right now. All was quiet and dark, except for a cat bathing itself across the street.
I walked a little earlier yesterday, because it's bearable when a slight breeze is blowing and the shade is more plentiful on the boardwalk. Mama gator was missing from the apartment... perhaps she went out for breakfast, or she might have been in back of the nest where she is not visible. There are two signs taped to the railing, now, warning of the consequences if people insist on throwing trash at her. Hope they work.
As I was walking back from the tower, where the hydrilla has blown in from the rain last week, I was just in time to see a raccoon climb up out of the water, cross in front of me, and climb down the other side! It was kinda peculiar looking, not the usual black and white, but kind of yellow and brown. Always something new!! God is good!
1 Corinthians 13 NLT
" If I could speak in any language in heaven or on earth but didn't love others, I would only be making meaningless noise like a loud gong or a clanging cymbal. If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I knew all the mysteries of the future and knew everything about everything but didn't love others, what good would I be? And if I had the gift of faith so that I could speak to a mountain and make it move, without love I would be no good to anybody. If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it, but if I didn't love others, I would be of no value whatsoever.
Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. Love does not demand its own way. Love is not irritable, and it keeps o record of when it has been wronged. It is never glad about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.
Love will last forever but prophecy and speaking in unknown languages and special knowledge will all disappear. Now we know only a little, and even the gift of prophecy reveals little! But when the end comes, these special gifts will all disappear.
It's like this. When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child does. But when I grew up, I put away childish things. Now we see things imperfectly as in a poor mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God knows me now.
There are three things that will endure-faith, hope and love-and the greatest of these is love."
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
When I stepped outside this morning, I could see the slim crescent moon shining brightly through the haze that seems to be covering the sky right now. All was quiet and dark, except for a cat bathing itself across the street.
I walked a little earlier yesterday, because it's bearable when a slight breeze is blowing and the shade is more plentiful on the boardwalk. Mama gator was missing from the apartment... perhaps she went out for breakfast, or she might have been in back of the nest where she is not visible. There are two signs taped to the railing, now, warning of the consequences if people insist on throwing trash at her. Hope they work.
As I was walking back from the tower, where the hydrilla has blown in from the rain last week, I was just in time to see a raccoon climb up out of the water, cross in front of me, and climb down the other side! It was kinda peculiar looking, not the usual black and white, but kind of yellow and brown. Always something new!! God is good!
1 Corinthians 13 NLT
" If I could speak in any language in heaven or on earth but didn't love others, I would only be making meaningless noise like a loud gong or a clanging cymbal. If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I knew all the mysteries of the future and knew everything about everything but didn't love others, what good would I be? And if I had the gift of faith so that I could speak to a mountain and make it move, without love I would be no good to anybody. If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it, but if I didn't love others, I would be of no value whatsoever.
Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. Love does not demand its own way. Love is not irritable, and it keeps o record of when it has been wronged. It is never glad about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.
Love will last forever but prophecy and speaking in unknown languages and special knowledge will all disappear. Now we know only a little, and even the gift of prophecy reveals little! But when the end comes, these special gifts will all disappear.
It's like this. When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child does. But when I grew up, I put away childish things. Now we see things imperfectly as in a poor mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God knows me now.
There are three things that will endure-faith, hope and love-and the greatest of these is love."
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, August 6, 2007
Psoaring thru Psalms
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the warm, humid day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! The half-moon was struggling to shine through the haze this morning, but a few stars were visible, showing God's glory.
Our gutters are still running with water from the rain last Thursday, and the water is high in the Park, I walked Friday and spoke to Mama gator who was stretched out full length, mostly in the water that is much higher now at the base of the nest. The nest is quite high, about three feet above the water level, so no danger of it flooding.
Sonnie, a friend, told me at church yesterday, that there is a petrified bat hanging from a tree somewhere on the trail, but he didn't know where, I would really like to see it! I will investigate further to see if I can find it. God's Creation is marvelous!
From the Promise Bible NLT
Needs
How can I be sure that my needs will be met?
Psalm 23:1 "The Lord is my Shepherd; I have everything I need."
The starting point for our assurance is the promise of God's love. Even as sheep must depend fully on a good shepherd, we must depend fully on the Lord. He is eager to graciously lead us through life.
Romans 8:31-32 "What can we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us? Since God did not spare even His own Son, but gave him up for us all, won't God, who gave us Christ, also give us everything else?"
If someone was offering you millions of dollars, you would not hesitate to ask them for just a few. God has met our greatest need by giving us His own Son to redeem us. Now, his great joy is supplying all our other needs for the glory of His name.
Hebrews 4:16 "Let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive His mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it."
We should not hesitate to come to God because he welcomes our requests.
Philippians 4:19 "This same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus."
God's resources far exceed my greatest needs.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Our gutters are still running with water from the rain last Thursday, and the water is high in the Park, I walked Friday and spoke to Mama gator who was stretched out full length, mostly in the water that is much higher now at the base of the nest. The nest is quite high, about three feet above the water level, so no danger of it flooding.
Sonnie, a friend, told me at church yesterday, that there is a petrified bat hanging from a tree somewhere on the trail, but he didn't know where, I would really like to see it! I will investigate further to see if I can find it. God's Creation is marvelous!
From the Promise Bible NLT
Needs
How can I be sure that my needs will be met?
Psalm 23:1 "The Lord is my Shepherd; I have everything I need."
The starting point for our assurance is the promise of God's love. Even as sheep must depend fully on a good shepherd, we must depend fully on the Lord. He is eager to graciously lead us through life.
Romans 8:31-32 "What can we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us? Since God did not spare even His own Son, but gave him up for us all, won't God, who gave us Christ, also give us everything else?"
If someone was offering you millions of dollars, you would not hesitate to ask them for just a few. God has met our greatest need by giving us His own Son to redeem us. Now, his great joy is supplying all our other needs for the glory of His name.
Hebrews 4:16 "Let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive His mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it."
We should not hesitate to come to God because he welcomes our requests.
Philippians 4:19 "This same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus."
God's resources far exceed my greatest needs.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, August 3, 2007
Protection and blessings
Good dry morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the beautiful day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it!
Looks like maybe we won't have any rain today, so I will head out for a walk very soon. Yesterday we only got caught in the rain once and that was coming from church, after working on communion.
I drove through the Park and looked at the high water covering the weir, and noticed how high the water in the canal is. I followed a car from Maine, driving very slowly down the street and they stopped right in front of me, because they noticed a gator cruising in the canal right in front of the house. Guess there aren't many gators in Maine!
Anyway, Terry is back from vacation and was very busy catching up on emails. He gave me the sad news that Ralph, the former assistant supervisor, and a very nice man, had passed away in July after a long battle with cancer. I was sad because I had just prayed for him yesterday morning. He was not a believer, but he appreciated my prayers.
Here are some scriptures I pray for most of you, daily...
Ephesians 6:10-13
Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.
"Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For your 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. Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. In addition to the armor, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one."
Ephesians 3:20,21
"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work in you, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus, throughout all generations, forever and ever.
Amen!
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Looks like maybe we won't have any rain today, so I will head out for a walk very soon. Yesterday we only got caught in the rain once and that was coming from church, after working on communion.
I drove through the Park and looked at the high water covering the weir, and noticed how high the water in the canal is. I followed a car from Maine, driving very slowly down the street and they stopped right in front of me, because they noticed a gator cruising in the canal right in front of the house. Guess there aren't many gators in Maine!
Anyway, Terry is back from vacation and was very busy catching up on emails. He gave me the sad news that Ralph, the former assistant supervisor, and a very nice man, had passed away in July after a long battle with cancer. I was sad because I had just prayed for him yesterday morning. He was not a believer, but he appreciated my prayers.
Here are some scriptures I pray for most of you, daily...
Ephesians 6:10-13
Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.
"Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For your 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. Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. In addition to the armor, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one."
Ephesians 3:20,21
"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work in you, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus, throughout all generations, forever and ever.
Amen!
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Guidance
Good wet morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the very rainy day that the Lord has made and we shall rejoice and be glad in it! Lesson for today is; be careful what you pray for! All those prayers for rain to end the drought are being answered all at once! Psalm 68:8,9 "You sent abundant rain, O God, to refresh the weary Promised Land..." So I am not really complaining, because we really need the rain. I can almost watch the grass grow! Another good thing, I haven't had to water the yard in weeks! Yea!
I think I have mentioned this before, but we have an unusual anole living in our garage above the door. I only see her when I turn on the light after it has been dark. She is almost transparent and has those distinctive bulging anole eyes. I have no idea what the critter lives on...maybe bugs around the window, but as soon as I approach, she does her funny wiggle into any opening she is near. . God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How can I experience God's guidance?
Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your paths."
The first step in guidance is knowing where to put your trust. Travelers rely on maps when visiting new places. In the same way, we must trust God to lead us and realize our own limitations. We do not understand all the complexities of life, like the Lord does.
Matthew 7:7-11 "Keep on asking and you will be given what you ask for. Keep on looking, and you will find. Keep on knocking and the door will be opened. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And the dooris opened to everyone who knocks. You parents-if your children ask for a loaf of bread, do you give them a stone instead? Or if they ask for a fish, do you give them a snake? Of course not! If you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him."
God invites us to pray so that we will know him more fully as our loving Father and understand ourselves more clearly as well. Even as a parent gives more and more responsibility to a child as he or she grows, so the Lord expects us to take responsibility for seeking and following his direction.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I think I have mentioned this before, but we have an unusual anole living in our garage above the door. I only see her when I turn on the light after it has been dark. She is almost transparent and has those distinctive bulging anole eyes. I have no idea what the critter lives on...maybe bugs around the window, but as soon as I approach, she does her funny wiggle into any opening she is near. . God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How can I experience God's guidance?
Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your paths."
The first step in guidance is knowing where to put your trust. Travelers rely on maps when visiting new places. In the same way, we must trust God to lead us and realize our own limitations. We do not understand all the complexities of life, like the Lord does.
Matthew 7:7-11 "Keep on asking and you will be given what you ask for. Keep on looking, and you will find. Keep on knocking and the door will be opened. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And the dooris opened to everyone who knocks. You parents-if your children ask for a loaf of bread, do you give them a stone instead? Or if they ask for a fish, do you give them a snake? Of course not! If you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him."
God invites us to pray so that we will know him more fully as our loving Father and understand ourselves more clearly as well. Even as a parent gives more and more responsibility to a child as he or she grows, so the Lord expects us to take responsibility for seeking and following his direction.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
True Value
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners and happy August wunth! This is the rainy day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! It was raining when I stepped outside this morning, but looks like the sun is trying to peek through the clouds. I was awakened this morning about 3:30, by flashes of brilliant lightning, so God is putting on a show for us.
Because of the rain yesterday, I did not walk in the Park, but did walk in Walmart... not the same! However, I did drive through the park and saw various critters running around, but not many people and few dog-walkers. Perhaps I will be able to walk tomorrow.
From Quiet Moments:
"The last will be first and the first will be last." Matthew 20:16
...It is always good to remind ourselves of our "relative" place in society. If we are on top, we need to remember we can soon be at the bottom. If we perceive ourselves as at the bottom, we need to know that in God's order we are among "the first".
In "The Finishing Touch", Chuck Swindoll raises the issue of perceived significance by asking about the people behind these Christian greats:
Who taught Martin Luther his theology and inspired his translation of the New Testament?
Who visited with Dwight L. Moody at a shoe store and spoke to him about Christ?
Who was the elderly woman who prayed faithfully for Billy Graham for over twenty years?
Who found the Dead Sea Scrolls?
Who discipled George Mueller and snatched him from a sinful lifestyle?
We may not achieve the fame and recognition from people that we would like to have in this life, but God doesn't call on us to be well known or admired. He calls us to be faithful to Him in whatever situation we find ourselves. When we are, we can see more clearly when he promotes us and gives us favor with others.
He who knows himself best
esteems himself least.
Henry George Bohn
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Because of the rain yesterday, I did not walk in the Park, but did walk in Walmart... not the same! However, I did drive through the park and saw various critters running around, but not many people and few dog-walkers. Perhaps I will be able to walk tomorrow.
From Quiet Moments:
"The last will be first and the first will be last." Matthew 20:16
...It is always good to remind ourselves of our "relative" place in society. If we are on top, we need to remember we can soon be at the bottom. If we perceive ourselves as at the bottom, we need to know that in God's order we are among "the first".
In "The Finishing Touch", Chuck Swindoll raises the issue of perceived significance by asking about the people behind these Christian greats:
Who taught Martin Luther his theology and inspired his translation of the New Testament?
Who visited with Dwight L. Moody at a shoe store and spoke to him about Christ?
Who was the elderly woman who prayed faithfully for Billy Graham for over twenty years?
Who found the Dead Sea Scrolls?
Who discipled George Mueller and snatched him from a sinful lifestyle?
We may not achieve the fame and recognition from people that we would like to have in this life, but God doesn't call on us to be well known or admired. He calls us to be faithful to Him in whatever situation we find ourselves. When we are, we can see more clearly when he promotes us and gives us favor with others.
He who knows himself best
esteems himself least.
Henry George Bohn
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
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