Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Happy New Year!!

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 chilly air was kind of a surprise, because we have been warm for so long. But I know it will soon warm up and we will be at almost 80 degrees again! God is good!

Have you noticed the evening sky lately? For a gorgeous sight, look to the west, and see the crescent moon with Venus high above and tiny Jupiter far to the bottom west. God's Creation is Awesome!

I have enjoyed my brief vacation from the morning email, almost as much as I enjoyed having the family here for Christmas. It was wonderful to have our sons and grandson here and to spend time with them, even though Brian spent most of Christmas day in bed and did not feel too perky for several days due to some kind of virus. But the rest of us did not get it, and the weather stayed perfect. We were blessed!

My prayer for all in the New Year, is that you will be blessed with whatever you need; work, good health, rest and a deep reliance on our Lord for all you need!

From Hymns for the Family of God:

Prayer of Concern for Others

Father, help me to talk like a Christian:
to speak in such a way that I build up another person's
confidence in himself, instead of tearing down his reputation.

Father, help me to drive like a Christian:
to be watchful and careful lest I cause harm to someone else
on the highways.

Father, help me to give like a Christian:
without thought of return, without anyone knowing what I
do, and with Your approval as sufficient reward.

Father, help me to dress like a Christian:
by not attracting attention to myself for being too fashionable
or too casual; and help me to show by my appearance
that I want people to know me for what I am inside myself.

Father, help me to sleep like a Christian:
At peace with myself because sin is forgiven; and at peace with
others because I do not allow my anger to last through a day.

Father, help me to eat like a Christian:
to eat healthily, to eat moderately, to eat gratefully, giving
thanks to You who provide my food, and for the one
who prepares my food.

Father, keep me from being so pious that I keep You out of the
practical areas of life. Be with me when I am along, and
when I shed my inhibitions, lest in those moments I cancel
out all that I seem to be when I'm on my best behavior.

Father, I ask this because I follow a Master who was never guilty
of the slightest wrong-doing, and who always showed His love
in the small details of living. Amen.

- Bryan Jeffery Leech

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Friday, December 19, 2008

One Solitary Life

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! Well, earlier this morning, when I stepped outside, the moon was very visible overhead and stars were shining, then, suddenly, the fog crept in and all was obscured. Reminded me of the poem I learned many years ago, "The fog creeps in on little cat feet"...can't remember all of it , or the author. Maybe c.c.cummings? Anyway, it is lifting now and the sky is blue. God is good!

Yesterday, I was trying to meet the goals I set, for getting gifts wrapped and last minute things done, before Daryl and Matthew come late tonight or early in the morning. But I took time to take a plate of Christmas cookies over to Mike and Francia at the Park, and we talked for a few minutes about the departed staff and how they were doing. Mike was so happy about the cookies, he gave me a big hug and kiss! I am happy he is still there.

This will be the last devotional until after Christmas, so I wish you all the most blessed Christmas and wonderful times with friends and family, celebrating the birth of our Lord Jesus!

One Solitary Life

Born in an obscure village, He was the child of a peasant woman. He worked in a carpenter shop until He was thirty years old, and then for three years He traveled around the country, stopping long enough to talk and to listen to people, and help where He could. He never wrote a book, He never had a hit record, He never went to college, He never ran for public office, He never had a family, or owned a house. He never did any of the things that usually accompany greatness. He had no credentials but Himself. But when He was only thirty three years old, the tide of public opinion turned against him, and His friends all rejected Him. When He was arrested, very few wanted anything to do with Him. After the trial, He was executed by the State along with admitted thieves. Only because a generous friend offered his own cemetery plot was there any place to bury Him. This all happened nineteen centuries ago, and yet today He is the leading figure of the human race, and the ultimate example of love. Now it is no exaggeration to say that all the armies that have ever marched, all the navies that have ever set sail, all the rulers that have ever ruled, all the kings that have ever reigned on this earth, all put together have not affected the life of man on earth like this One Solitary Life.
Fred Bock (alt)

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Merry Christmas to all!

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Reverence, not Ritual

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 early this morning, the half moon was shining brightly, as usual, and stars were visible, which meant a beautiful day! Then, a short time ago, fog came rolling in, but now, that has also lifted. This is the time of year, when we don't need heat or A/C. Glorious!

I was determined to walk in the Park yesterday, and found that the tree trimming crew was there, and had the boardwalk to the tower blocked off. They were working on cutting down a very old maple that was leaning over the walk, and had a ladder about fifty feet high propped against the tree. No way would I climb that high!

So, I walked the Hammock trail instead and enjoyed it very much. I took frequent pauses to gaze over the rail down into the swampy areas. I was really surprised at the water all the way until higher ground where the old orange orchard used to be. Unfortunately, when the new boardwalk was built some of the lemon trees were cut down. Since the trees have been trimmed, the orange trees have fruit very high up, so I was unable to reach any. Though the oranges are very sour and not edible just to squeeze or eat, they make wonderful pies!

God has a plan for everything!

From Quiet Moments with God:

He said to them, "Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds?"
Luke 24:38

Have you ever met people who, when something good comes their way, start wondering when God is going to take it back?

Long ago, pagans in Germany and Holland believed this way. If Johann met Hans in the forest and said, " Hey Hans! I got that horse I wanted--good price too!" in a second both men would gasp. Johann would run to the nearest tree and start pounding on it.

The pagans believed that the gods lived in trees, and if they heard about any human happiness, they would cause mischief. Johann, realizing his mistake in the listening forest, would rap on trees to drive the gods away. Even when it was no longer a custom to literally "knock on wood," the phrase sufficed to fill the same purpose: "May my good fortune suffer no reversal."

In our lives, it's wither " Thy will be done" or " knock on wood." Either God is working for our good, or we must be working for our good.

How sad it must make our Heavenly Father to see us robbed of joy as we receive His blessings, simply out of fear! Furthermore, some people feel the only way to hold onto the joys of life is to perform good deeds.As a result, those parts of the Christian life that should bring us closer to the heart of God often end up as rituals performed out of duty and fear.

When the city of Hamburg was stricken with the plague and large numbers were dying, the healthy---in mortal dread of becoming ill---flocked to the city's churches. It was not a reverence for God that drew them to church, but the fear of cholera. As soon as the plague abated, their zeal for the worship of God also abated.

The Lord desires an intimate, honest relationship with you--not a relationship rooted in your fear of loss or failure. The "fear of God" does not mean you're afraid of God; it means you have respect for Him. This reverence is born out of trust in His love. Turn to Him this morning, to experience life, not merely to avoid disaster. When you do, you'll meet a Heavenly Father who loves you completely and unconditionally.

Don't come to the cross
out of fear of hell.
Come to the cross out of
Love for Christ.
Unknown

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Easin' thru Ephesians

Good 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! When I stepped outside earlier the funny shaped moon was shining brightly and actually, outshining the stars, but I did see a few of them. This morning I saw the weather in the rest of the country, on TV. I must say we are blessed to have this sunshiny, warm weather here. It is supposed to get up to 80 degrees again today. Almost time for AC again. :o)

Well, we have such a carpet of leaves all over the driveway, porch and grass, that I decided to tackle the blower once again. I really need practice to refine my technique. I have to get the long extension cord all pulled out first, and then be sure I keep the blower pointed down. I had leaves flying high in the air, and out in the street, which I didn't intend to do, But the porch got cleaned off and the driveway cleared. but...guess what? They are all covered again today! Now, if I could only figure out how to blow the leaves off the trees....

We saw lots of soft-shelled turtles sunning on the weir yesterday and the big, fat gopher tortoise once again trying to get through the fence. There is always something to see at the Park!

Ephesians 6:10-20 NEB

Finally then, find your strength in the Lord, in His mighty power. Put on all the armor which God provides, so that you may be able to stand firm against the devices of the devil. For our fight is not against human foes, but against cosmic powers, against the authorities and potentates of this dark world, against the superhuman forces of evil in the heavens. Therefore, take up God's armour; then you will be able to stand your ground when things are at their worst, to complete every task and still to stand. Stand firm, I say. Fasten on the belt of truth; for coat of mail put on integrity; let the shoes on your feet be the gospel of peace, to give you firm footing; and , with all these, take up the great shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take salvation for helmit; for sword, take that which the Spirit give you-the words that come from God. give yourselves wholly to prayer and entreaty; always interceding for all God's people; and pray for me, that I may boldly and freely make known his hidden purpose, for which I am an ambassador-in chains. Pray that I may speak of it boldly, as it is my duty to speak.

Prayer
Give us a pure heart
that we may see Thee,
A humble heart
that we may hear Thee,
A heart of love
that we may serve Thee,
A heart of faith
that we may live Thee.
Dag Hammarskjold

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Encouragement

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! As I stepped outside before daybreak, the sky was clear and the moon with a chunk out of it, was shining brightly. Then, shortly after that, the fog rolled in and all was dark again. Now the fog has cleared and the sun is warm... supposed to be up to 80 today. Another beautiful day in sunny St. Petersburg!! God is good!

Yesterday, as I was driving along Turner's Creek, the tide was very low, and two roseate spoonbills were pecking along the muddy bank. It was the first time I had seen them in this area. Beautiful! Pink is just about my favorite color, anyway.

Then, while driving through the Park, I saw the huge, probably hundred year old gopher tortoise, lumbering his way along the fence. He is protected, so nothing bothers him.

The water in the canal was nice and serene, reflecting the trees which are now bare of leaves, and rather stark looking, but that is nature in the winter. God's Creation!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

What do I do when I feel overwhelmed?

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 enabled you to share the inheritance that belongs to God's holy people, who live in the light. For he has rescued us from the one who rules in the kingdom of darkness, and 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. He has given us the power to be patient and persistence and to keep our minds set on 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

Monday, December 15, 2008

Prayer and Action

Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the overcast, but warm, day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside this morning, all I could see was clouds, but then, all at once, the full moon peeked through, creating a halo of light in the whiteness: amazing!

Yesterday, I saw a bird sitting on the light wire that I couldn't identify right away, so I looked in my bird book and discovered it was a kingfisher. They are pretty rare around here, at least in my neighborhood. Very perky looking. :o)

Well, I just had a slight interruption... virus scan and then a couple of nice rains , which I did not know were expected. We always can use the rain! God is good!

This reading is from Hymns from the Family of God:

Prayer and Action

God is not a personage who orders us to a prostrate ourselves before Him
-a radically false position-
but one who says:
" Stand up,
here is my task for you:
take it and get on with it."

God does not require incense from us;
what He does require
is that we should
listen and take action-
the true response of love.

God did not stop speaking two thousand years ago,
He speaks to you personally today
every time an inward voice asks you to do a kind or generous deed
or to suffer for the sake of someone else.

It is to you personally that God speaks at this moment,
and it is through you that He speaks when He inspires you to do some service.
Be brave enough to listen at first hand to what God says to you.

-John W. Harvey and Christina Yates

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Friday, December 12, 2008

A Prayer

Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the overcast day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside this morning, it was still dark from all the clouds, but I am sure the moon is full by now, and is up there some place! When the weather turns cooler, the sky will clear and then the sky will be visible.

We drove through the Park yesterday and saw that the canal was up, a fat gator was on the bank of one lake and everything has greened up already from the downpour we had . Everything that was thirsty, got a good drink! We have a lot of wood storks around our lakes. I have mentioned this before, but it seems like a lot more this winter. I still think they are very depressed looking. But God is good!

I watched ESPN for the football awards and was admiring Tim Tebow and his pronounced faith which he proclaims every chance he gets. I watched the segment of his work in the Philippines and the prisons, leading men to Christ. What a role model for my grandson and all others who admire his playing football!! Go Gators!

The following is a prayer that says a lot:

Free from the Guilted Cage

Lord Jesus Christ, today I want to live my life as an expression of your love, rather than as an effort to earn or deserve your love. Like Paul, I have tried about everything to prove my worth. Nothing satisfies. I am weary of doing the right thing because of guilt and not grace. Thank you for the limitless power of your love which sets me free from a guilted cage to fly and soar to new heights of joyous praise today.
Amen
LLoyd John Ogilvie

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Remember, Jesus is the Reason for the Season!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Happy Birthday, Tiffany!

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Precious in God's Sight

Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the stormy, rainy, day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! It took a cold front to bring the rain we sorely needed, but God's timing is always right. The temperature is already dropping from the 72 degrees when I took the dumpster down to the driveway...in the rain.

The front yard is full of large and small branches, broken from the oak trees. If the rain stops, I will pick them all up and stick them in the trash.

We drove through the very dry park yesterday and saw a black ibis. At least, I think it was an ibis! I had never seen a black one before. There weren't many people out, because it was very warm and windy and school was not out yet, but the trees were reflected in the water, along with the anhingas, And a picnic table was full with family enjoying their lunch. God is good!

From Hymns from the Family of God:

In God's sight a person is the most precious of all values. This truth possessed Jesus and never let Him go. He thought it, taught it, and lived it with full devotion. He illustrated it with stories of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son.

Every individual is inherently worthful to the Father--every child everywhere, of every race, of every condition. Love requires response, and parenthood craves companionship and cooperation. Therefore every human being on this globe is indispensable to God, indispensable in the sense that God can never be fully Himself without loving comradeship, and He can never complete His work without faithful cooperation from every individual everywhere.

Jesus taught and lived the twin truths that man needs God and God needs man, which is to say, parents and child are so bound together that cleavage is disastrous. No idea could be further from the mind of our Lord than the persistent doctrine that God is so transcendent, so holy, so sovereign that He is unknowable, inaccessible, and unresponsive. In the prayer which He taught His disciples, Jesus makes it clear that men should carry all their needs to the Father, even a petition for the satisfaction of daily bodily requirements. Jesus knew men to be frail, sinful, easily corrupted, sometimes monstrously depraved, capable of cruel and atrocious behavior- but always, always, always a child of God, and, even when a prodigal, indispensable to the lonely and yearning heart of the Fatherl
Kirby Page

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Con't from yesterday

Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the overcast, changing day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside this morning, the wind was blowing and the clouds hid the sky, so no stars were visible. Since the oak trees are in their shedding stage, our porch and yard are covered with brown leaves. However, our kind friend who does our yard, gave me an electric blower, so when the wind dies down, I can blow everything instead of the sweeping.! God is good!

I have to confess, I am a saver. I save prayer requests and various other things. Some of the personal ones, I put in my treasure box. But today I decided it was time to clean up for the new year, and in reading over the requests I had saved, I could clearly see God's Hand at work in answering. Sometimes it takes a while to see the answers, but even though I forget that I have prayed for certain things, God does not forget, and in His time, He will answer.

Sometimes, I will receive an email, or response from someone who has asked for prayer and that is always heartwarming to read and hear. Yesterday, I had a few errands to run, and shopping to do, and even though I didn't ask, at a couple intersections where I usually have to wait a long time for traffic to clear..I was able to move right out! I praised God for it. Little things mean a lot! God is Awesome!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Where can I find inspiration and encouragement in times of depression?

Proverbs 16:20 Those who listen ti instruction will prosper; those who trust the Lord will be happy.

John 15:11 I have told you this so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!

When we are depressed, we need to stop listening to the voices of discouragement, and listen instead to God's word. The instructions in God's word help us to recognize the lies of the world, the flesh, and the devil that fuel our depression. Trusting the Lord and his word bring us unshakable joy.

Nehemiah 8:10 Nehemiah continued, "Go and celebrate with a feast of choice foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don't be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!"

2 Corinthians 12:9 Each time he said, "My gracious favor is all you need. My power works best in your weakness." So now I am glad to boast about my weadnesses, so that the power of Christ may work through me.

When we are weak we may be more receptive to the Lord's strength. When God works through our weakness we know it is his work and not ours.

Matthew 11:28 Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest."

Depression is one of the ways God gets us to rest and to finally slow down long enough to be with the Lord. As we come to Him through prayer and the Scriptures, the Holy Spirit comforts and strengthens us--often in ways we cannot explain.

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 ua all, won't God, who gave us Christ, also give us everything else?

Never underestimate the power of God's affirmation and his willingness to give us all we need for this life. Everything else we need is minimal compared with the infinite and costly gift of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross.

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Psoaring through Psalms

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 sky was overcast, so no stars were visible. But last night, I stepped outside just to look at Venus and Jupiter, still beaming brightly in the southwestern sky...and almost overhead was the three quarter moon, some distance away from the planets! Beautiful! God's Creation is awesome!

Yesterday, Terry, our retired friend from the Park, came over to put up our outside Christmas lights. He is keeping busy in retirement, and looks very relaxed in the face. It is a blessing to have friends to help us out in various ways. God is good!

Speaking of the park, we drove through and saw Ibis reflected in the still water. They looked like a still photo. Colored leaves were floating on the surface, and the usual anhingas were drying out their wings perched anywhere they could find a place to hang onto. It seems like there are a lot more woodstorks around this winter, but somehow, they don't find their way to Sawgrass.

From the Promise Bible NLT:

DEPRESSION

Psalm 42:5,6 Why am I discouraged? Why so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again--my Savior and my God! Now I am deeply discouraged, but I will remember your kindness--from Mount Herman, the source of the Jordan, from the land of Mount Mizar.

Depression is a time for soul-searching, for asking basic questions. We are often discouraged because we concentrate on our circumstances instead of on the Lord who will always care for us. The psalmist's questions awakened him to the reality that God alone is our source of comfort and hope. When we are depressed, we need to remind ourselves that God has been faithful in the past and will be faithful in the present.

Habakkuk 3:17-19 Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vine; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation. The Sovereign Lord is my strength! He will make me as surefooted as a deer and bring me safety over the mountains.

Much depression is caused by trusting in the things of this world instead of in God. We will be disappointed if our happiness is based on security, prestige, possessions and popularity. These things come and go. Trusting in God helps us travel through the toughest times with surefooted confidence.

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Monday, December 8, 2008

A Benediction for this week

Good morning, dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the chilly day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it!

When I stepped outside this morning, stars were brilliant, but I could see no sign of the moon. I know it is getting full, but it was hidden earlier.

Yesterday, we saw a large, fat gator basking in the sun at the park, and lots of people enjoying the perfect weather with picnics and walking. God os good!

Something strange happened last night. I stayed up later than usual watching the three hankie Hall of Fame presentation, and when I came back to the bedroom, the two anniversary balloons were floating in front of the mirror. What is strange is that they had to float down the hall, through the living room and I never saw them!! Creepy. Their long ribbons got caught in the fan and now they have a very short string hanging down. The fan has not been untangled yet...not the ceiling fan, but a floor fan. Sigh. Another job. But at least I will learn how to clean the floor fan... :o)

I saw this in the Hymns for the Family of God and thought it would be great for this week:

May the Lord take from you all resistance to His will.
May He give to you the fullness of His life.
and the sufficiency of His practical, daily help.
May the Lord send you during this week to come to those
He can only serve through your unique experience of His
and your very special abilities.
May the Lord bring us together even when we are apart,
as we learn to be supportive of one another in our prayers
and our service.
Amen
Bryan Jeffrey Leech

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Friday, December 5, 2008

A Firm Foundation

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 much earlier steady Venus was still in place, but the moon was nowhere to be seen, It was a chilly morning, but now the sun is shining and the day is warming up.

Our friend, David, was already here to mow the front yard and blow all the acorns and leaves off the driveway. We are blessed to have someone dependable to rely on to do" fix up "things for us.

We saw a very large, fat gator half in and half out of the water yesterday at the Park. At least he was getting the tail warmed up! As i was walking Wednesday, I stopped to let a patron take a photo with his tripod camera. I couldn't see what he was aiming at, but when he finished, I walked on and saw a butterfly posing on the top rail. It didn't fly away until I had passed it. It was orange with black spots, but I don't remember the name. God's Creation is Awesome!

From Quiet Moments with God:

The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.
Matthew 7:25

The world's tallest tower stands in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The first observation deck rises to 1,136 feet, and second is even higher at 1,915 feet. Photographs and information located inside the tower help visitors comprehend the enormous undertaking of the project. Sixty two tons of earth and shale were removed from fifty feet into the ground for laying the concrete that rises to the sky.

From 1972 to 1974, 3,000 workers were at the tower site. Harnessed by safety ropes, some of the laborers dangled outside the giant for their finishing work. Remarkably, no one sustained injuries nor died on location.

Today, a rapid elevator transports visitors upward for a breathtaking view of the city and all surrounding areas. Many feel it was well worth the money, time, and effort required to build the CN tower.

We, too, need a good foundation for facing life each day. As we pray and spend time with our Heavenly Father, we are strengthening our spiritual foundation, our support base for life. We are able to see more from His point of view and not just our own. Thus we are not overwhelmed by whatever comes our way. When we feel we're hanging on the edge or suspended in mid-air, we can take courage in knowing He is holding us-firmly planted- in the palm of his hand His foundation is strong and sure, and He will not crumble and fall.


Faith is the Christian's
foundation. Hope is
his anchor. Dearh is his
harbor. Christ is his pilot,
and heaven is
his country.
Jeremy Taylor

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love.

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Thursday, December 4, 2008

The First New Shoes

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! Well, I overslept this morning, so the daylight had already washed away the darkness, but last evening, I looked once again at the crescent moon, which has moved further to the south, and saw Venus and Jupiter in their same positions. Awesome!

Yesterday afternoon, I was determined to take a Park walk, so I enjoyed the coolish air, and looked at Mama gator for a few minutes, then on to the tower. I heard a small chirp and watched a tiny wren flitting around the nude maple trees. Then I saw a single moorhen at the tower. They have not been around for some time, but usually are in pairs, so I wonder where the other half was? Anyway, the wind was blowing quite strongly, and the leaves were all over the boardwalk, so I just scuffed through them and really enjoyed the outdoors. I was really warm by the time I finished the walk! But God is good!

From Quiet Moments with God

Matthew 25:40
The king will reply,"I tell you the truth, watever you did for one of the least of these brothers or mine, you did for me."

As the depression continued, the kitchen cabinets remained empty. Money was scarce. Their father, who had already deserted his family once before, couldn't handle the pressure and left again. As the oldest son, Jerry hit the road to try to earn some money to buy food for his three younger brothers. The air was bitterly cold, and the ground was frozen.

As Jerry walked, he saw some men digging a hold beside the road. "Can I help?" he asked.
"Sure," one of the men said as he handed him a shovel.

Jerry worked hard. For hours he dug in the bitter cold through frozen dirt while sleet pelted the ground. The men handed him a few coins before quitting. The yound boy stopped by the corner market to buy some canned goods for Christmas dinner the following day.

As he walked out of the store, the rain and sleet picked up and poured down on him. He had placed cardboard inside his shoes to replace the worn-out soles, and that had worked fine until the freezing wateer soaked his socks and feet. He sat down on the cold ground to adjust the cardboard.

"Son, are those the only shoes you have?" a man in uniform asked.

"Yes, sir," Jerry replied.

"Come with me," the man said, and he took him to a shoe store down the street, where he bought him his first pair of brand new shoes.

The light of Christmas shone brightly at the kitchen table as Jerry's family enjoyed the meal that he had earned the day before, digging a ditch in the freezing cold. The Love of Jesus--and the memory of a kind man in a uniform--brought tears to Jerry's eyes as he thanked God for taking care of them all, even in the worst of times.

Love goes without, that
another may have.
Rev. J. M. Gibbon

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Beatitudes

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the chilly day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside this morning, it was too early to see the frost across the street, but when the sun came up, all the roofs were covered and the lawns were white and frosty. It was pretty, but very cold!

Did you all see the convergence of the moon and Venus and Jupiter last evening? Beautiful! God has arranged a show for all who look up at sunset in the southwestern sky. The waxing moon and the two planets are very close together right now. They won't be that close again until 2052. This is believed to be the star that told of the birth of Jesus, when Jupiter and Venus were so close they seemed to be one.

God is Awesome!

As we drove through the Park yesterday, I noticed that the cypress trees are all brown and shedding, and the maple trees are nearly through casting off their leaves. A fat gator was basking in the sun on a bank by the lake, unnoticed by many people who drove right by and are not looking. God is good!

The Beatitudes from the NIV:

Now when He saw the crowds,
He went up on a mountainside and sat down.
His disciples came to Him
and He began to teach them, saying:

Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger
and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.

Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called sons of God
Blessed are those who are persecuted
because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are you when people insult you,
persecute you and falsely say
all kinds of evil against you
because of Me.
Rejoice and be glad,
because great is your reward in heaven.
For in the same way
They persecuted the prophets
who were before you.
Matthew 5:1-12

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love.

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Strength

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 much earlier, the clouds were scudding swiftly across the darkened sky and a few stars were shining. The north wind was very chilly, and the temp. seems to be dropping.

I went to sleep with the sound of rain coming softly down, and everything was very wet, which is good. We still need lots of rain.

Yesterday, I walked through the Park and looked at mama gator still standing watch over the one or two babies left. I could hardly see her for the people hanging over the railing looking at her. We also went to Walmart after that, and I walked from Christmas to oatmeal, so that was another good bit of exercise! God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

How can I experience God's strength in my life?

Jeremiah 8:10 Nehemiah continued, "Go and celebrate with a feast of choice foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. this is a sacred day before our Lord. Don't be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.

Strength starts in the heart long before it is exerted in other aspects of life. The joy of the Lord gives us strength to obey, to endure, and to triumph in all circumstances.

Isaiah 40:29,31 He gives power to those who are tired and worn out; he offers strength to the weak...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.

Life wears us out, but waiting on the Lord renews our strength. Our limitations remind us to rely more fully on the Lord.

What can I do in God's strength?

Philippians 4:13 I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need.

There are no limits to what God can do in and through us.

Psalm 18:1,2 I love you, Lord; you are my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior, my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the strength of my salvation, and my stronghold...In your strength I can crush an army; with my God I can scale any wall. As for God, his way is perfect. All the Lord's promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection.

Ephesians 3:20 Now glory be to God! By his mighty power at work within us, he is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope.

God's strength in us is a result of his love for us. In his strength we have the power to do things that we could never do on our own. We can withstand the toughest attacks and can take the offensive to overcome our problems.

Psalm 46:1-2 God is our refuge and strength; always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear, even if earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea.

By God's strength we can live without fear, because God's strength drives out fear.

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Monday, December 1, 2008

Happy December First!

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 sky was clear and dark and Venus was shining brightly as was an airplane as high, it seemed, as Venus.

I really enjoyed the rain yesterday. Everything looks fresh today and wet. Lots of leaves and twigs were blown down by the strong winds that preceded the rain and I picked up some to put in the dumpster which gets emptied today.

We drove through the Park and even though the weather was threatening and blowing, there were still quite a lot of people out enjoying it. I spotted some anhingas and turtles, but no gator. There was a very interesting article in the paper yesterday about the bike trail through the Everglades and how many times gators are on the trail. I once was coming back down the sidewalk at Sawgrass, when a very large gator crossed the sidewalk in front of me to get to the canal. I gave him the right of way!! God is Awesome!

Excerpts from Psalm 139 NLT:

O lord, you have examined my heart
and know everything about me.
You know when I sit down or stand up.
You know my every thought when far away.

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
even before I say it, Lord.
You both precede and follow me,
You place your hand of blessing on my head.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too great for me to know!

I could ask the darkness to hide me
and the light around me to become night--
but even in darkness I cannot hide from you.
To you the night shines bright as day.
Darkness and light are both alike to you.

...Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my thoughts.
Point out anything in me that offends you..
and lead me along the path of everlasting life.

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Friday, November 28, 2008

A Prayer for Thanksgiving

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! I snoozed a little later this morning, so when I stepped outside, dawn was breaking and I could see Venus brightly shining in the southeast and faintly, contrails from the planes, taking people who knows where. It is cool, but beautiful! God is good!

Yesterday, Brian brought our Thanksgiving meal from a restaurant, and we celebrated our anniversary and Thanksgiving together. After we ate too much, we took a ride over to Tampa and drove around different areas. Louis was born in Tampa, but does not remember anything about it now. However, we enjoyed getting out of our neighborhood, and ended up at Walmart where I needed a few things and am determined not to go there today! They had big pallets all wrapped in dark plastic, ready to reveal their super bargains today.

We drove through the Park and quite a few people were there enjoying the outdoors. While going over Gandy bridge, we noticed how calm and still the bay was. I saw several dolphins just under the surface and wished they would come up and show themselves. It was a very good day.

The following is a prayer for Thanksgiving by Bryan Jeffrey Leech, a member of the Covenant church who has composed many songs.

Thank You, Father for Your magnificence in nature.
Thank You, Father for the inner promptings of Your Spirit.
Thank You, Father for fresh truth to live by.
Thank You, Father, for people whose lives illustrate Your word.Thank You, Father, for this church to which I belong.
for those who help me,
intercede for me,
support me,
love me,
inspire me.
Lord, I cannot live as a Christian without them, for I need that part of Yourself that You have placed within them.
And they cannot live without me, because they need the gifts that You have deposited in
me.
Lord, free us of the selfishness, the self-centeredness, the ego-trips, the independence of
spirit that keeps us from binding ourselves into one.
Lord, help us to think first of those things which will benefit others before we begin listing
our own needs.
Give us grace to live in such a way that we draw attention to You.
Amen

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

A Psalm of Thanksgiving

Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is another cool day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Well, God answers prayers! Yesterday we had a little rain. Now , when I prayed for rain, I didn't specify how much, so even though it didn't last long, at least it was wet! God is good!

We saw a fat gator sunning on the bank at the Park yesterday, even though there wasn't much sun. They don't seem to move around very much in cool weather, but like to dry out and warm up on the banks. The birds and gators seem to co-exist peacefully at the Park, but I am sure they are always aware of each other.

I have been feeding the five feral cats in our backyard, but I still wish they would go away. The mama is a good mother to her four kittens. I watched her curl up with her paws tucked under while the kittens ate their fill, and then she ate whatever was left. Today she washed the face of one that was already washing. What a cleaning she gave it! I feel sorry for them and will feed them scraps or cat food whenever I can. Sometimes I don't see them for several days at a time, so I guess they roam all over the neighborhood. They are still God's creatures.

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Psalm 100

Shout with joy to the Lord, O earth!
Worship the Lord with gladness.
Come before him, singing with joy.
Acknowledge that the Lord is God!
He made us, and we are his.
We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving
go into his courts with praise.
Give thanks to him and bless his name.
For the Lord is good.
His unfailing love continues forever,
and his faithfulness continues to each
generation.

Happy Thanksgiving to all! I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Christ Be With Me

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 felt a little warmer than yesterday, although still quite cool. And we are still very dry.

I noticed at the park yesterday that the grass there is turning as brown as ours . They still do not have the irrigation system repaired and that was started months ago.I watched a six-foot gator sunning on the bank and then walked to the first shelter to see mama gator. She was in the same place I last saw her, although she had changed positions. I saw the water churning, but did not see the babies, but couldn't get a good look because too many people were there.

It was a pleasant afternoon for a walk, and I am glad I went. God is good!

From Hymns for the Family of God:

Christ be with Me

I arise today
Through God's strength to pilot me:
God's might to uphold me,
God's wisdom to guide me,
God's eye to look before me,
God's ear to hear me,
God's word to speak for me,
God's hand to guard me,
God's way to lie before me,
God's shield to protect me.

Christ be with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me
Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me.
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down, Christ when I arise.
Christ in the heart of every man who thinks of me.
Christ in the mouth of every one who speaks of me,
Christ in every eye that sees me,
Christ in every ear that hears me.

St. Patrick

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Monday, November 24, 2008

Answered Prayer

Good morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the bright, cool day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside this morning, the sky was dark, but brilliant with stars, large and small. God is Awesome!

I saw a group? flock? gathering of woodstorks at the lake near us yesterday; all looking very somber with heads down and not moving. For some reason woodstorks never look happy. I don't even know what kind of call they have. I also saw a fat gator sunning at the park and anhingas with spread wings in several places.

We had a busy weekend, even though I didn't feel too perky. A great evening with friends, with a surprise celebration for our 60th anniversary, and then church Sunday and chili supper at church in the evening. God is good!!

This prayer is from the hymnal "Hymns For the Family of God."

I asked God for strength,
that I might achieve,
I was made weak.
that I might learn humbly to obey.

I asked for health,
that I might do greater things,
I was given infirmity,
that I might do better things.

I asked for riches,
that I might be happy,
I was given weakness,
that I might be wise.

I asked for power,
that I might have the praise of men,
I was given weakness
that I might feel the need of God.

I asked for all things,
that I might enjoy life,
I was given life,
that I might enjoy all things.
I got nothing that I asked for -
but everything I had hoped for;
Almost despite myself,
my unspoken prayers were answered.
I am among all men most richly blessed.

Unknown Confederate Soldier

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love,

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Friday, November 21, 2008

Work

Good 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!

When I stepped outside this morning, the star in the southeast was very bright. I am not sure if it is Venus. But the quarter moon was very bright, also, and an airplane went over as I was looking up, and all I could see was a moving light. God's creation is Awesome!

Well, I got in plenty of exercise yesterday. A trip to Walmart brought lots of walking and waiting, and then, after the visit to Wellspring, for Louis' treatment, I stopped at the Park and took a walk, because the day was so lovely. As I crossed over the bridge, I looked along the banks and, sure enough, there was a fat, black gator almost hidden in the brush. I walked on to the first shelter, and saw lots of people looking over the railing at Mama gator who was out of the water and very gray looking. She had two babies near her, and I was surprised that they are not any bigger than they are. It has been almost three months, I think, since they were hatched.

I went on to the tower, where there was no one, and got wind whipped, and looked at the choppy water. Then when I started back, two of the workers had the cart with long boards on it. They were unloading them to replace some of the top railing. Seems like it doesn't take long for the sun to work it's destruction on wood. It was a good day!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

How is my work important to the Lord?

1 Thessalonians 4: 11-12 This should be your ambition: to live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands, just as we commanded you before. As a result, people wo are not Christians will respect the way you live, and you will not need to depend on others to meet your financial needs.

Work is God's plan for our lives. Those who work diligently experience many benefits in their own lives and bring benefits to others. God promises two basic rewards for faithful work. (1) having a more credible witness to nonbelievers and (2) having our needs met without having to financially depend on others.

Romans 12:8 If your gift is to encourage others, do it! If you have money, share it generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.

What does the Lord promise to those who work hard?

Proverbs 13:11 Wealth from get-rich- quick schemes quickly disappears, wealth from hard work grows.

Honest hard work is much better than get-rich-quick schemes. Money quickly gotten is often quickly wasted.

Colossians 3:23-24 Work hard and cheerfully at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you in inheritance as your reward, and the Master you are serving is Christ.

God promises a reward to those who work hard. That reward can include-but is not limited to-financial prosperity. It may be the rewards of respect and personal satisfaction or the joy of contributing to the welfare of another.

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Hebrews excerpts

Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the chilly day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! All you dog walkers out there know it is in the forties this morning. Brrr! The lawn across the street is covered with frost for the first time this winter.

When I stepped outside this morning, I noticed the stars seemingly so close and the half moon shining brightly, but I did not stay to look or linger! It was cold with the north wind blowing! If I make a lot of typos, it is because my hands are cold.

I was thinking about walking this morning, but I am not as brave as I used to be. I remember walking in the park, with earmuffs, mittens and layers of clothes and finding frost on top of the railing on the boardwalk, but now, I wait for warm sun. That's what age and wisdom do for you. :o)

Hebrews 13:1-25 NLT

Continue to love each other with true Christian love. Don't forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it! Don't forget about those in prison. Suffer with them as though you were there yourself. Share the sorrow of those being mistreated as though you feel their pain in your own bodies.

Give honor to marriage, and remain faithful to one another in marriage. God will surely judge people who are immoral and those who commit adultery.

Stay away from the love of money, be satisfied with what you have. For God has said:
"I will never fail you.
I will never forsake you."

That is why we can say with confidence:
"The Lord is my helper.
I will not be afraid.
What can mere mortals do to me?"

Remember your leaders who first taught you the word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives, and trust the Lord as they do.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever. So do not be attracted by strange, new ideas. Your spiritual strength comes from God's special favor, not from ceremonial rules about food, which don''t help those who follow them...

With Jesus' help let us continually offer our sacrifice of praise to God by proclaiming the glory of his name. Don't forget to do good and to share what you have with those in need, for such sacrifices are very pleasing to God...

And now, may the God of peace, who brought again from the dead, our Lord Jesus, equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, all that is pleasing to him. Jesus is the great Shepherd of the sheep by an everlasting covenant, signed with his blood. To him be glory forever and ever. Amen

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and warm hugs,
Amaryllis

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Success

Good chilly morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it!

Brrr! When I stepped outside this morning, the stars were seemingly very close and the moon was a little smaller but still shining brightly, in the cold sky. And just before I came back in, I saw a falling star! It went so fast, I could hardly believe it! God is Awesome!

I saw a fat gator sunning himself in the Park yesterday, although the water still must be warmer than the air temps. I guess they just like to get a little warmer sometimes. Everything looks very dry, and there is a real fire danger. We really need rain.

Because of the coolness of the air, I thought yesterday would be a good time to make a big pot of soup, so I gathered up all the ingredients for a veggie-beef concoction and had that simmering all afternoon. Then I made more brownies and had an avocado salad. Good comfort food! :o)

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Does God promise us success in this life?

1 Samuel 16:7 The Lord said to Samuel, "Don't judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn't make decisions the way you do! People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at a person's thoughts and intentions.

God's standards differ greatly from our own. Success is measured by faithfulness and fruitfulness not by results and quantities. We measure success in terms of appearances and externals, but the Lord looks on the heart. God measures success by weighing our devotion and commitment to him.

1 John 2:15-17 Stop loving this evil world and all that it offers you, for when you love the world, you show that you do not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only the lust for physical pleasure, the lust for everything we see, and pride in our possessions. These are not from the Father. They are from this evil world. And this world is fading away, along with everything it craves. But if you do the will of God you will live forever.

Success in this world can mean failure in God's eyes. While we live in this world, we are not to be controlled by this world's system of values. God promises that if we do his will, we will have true success.

1 Corinthians 3:4-5 We are confident of all this because of our great trust in God through Christ. It is not that we think we can do anything of lasting value in ourselves. Our only power and success come from God.

Jesus' followers know that real success comes only from the Lord.

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Monday, November 17, 2008

Encumbrances

Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the chilly day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside early this morning, the dark sky was brilliant with myriads of stars and the three quarter moon was shining brightly in the cloudless sky. Gorgeous! I did not linger long, however, as it was a bit too brisk for my liking.

Yesterday, instead of walking, I spent most of the afternoon in the kitchen, baking choc. chunk cookies and brownies for an "I care" package to send to Tennessee. After Daryl and Matthew went back home in October with cookies, it was suggested by someone in his office that it would be a good idea to send more... so they will be shipped off today.

The feral kittens were back in the backyard Saturday..first time in about a month that I have seen them. They are half grown now, and will surely be having kittens. I called the animal control and the only way they will come out is if the kittens are caught in a cage first! Since they run as soon as someone approaches, that is not practical. Oh, well.

We did drive through the Park yesterday and saw a few people bundled up and walking dogs and just exercising. I did not see any egrets or herons, but I did notice a tiny wren in our yard, and they usually come in the winter, so, maybe, my favorite catbird will be back at the park! God is good!

From Quiet Moments with God:

Hebrews 12:1 Let us lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily ensnares us.

In Jules Verne's novel The Mysterious Island, he writes of five men who escape a Civil War prison camp by hijacking a hot-air balloon. As they rise into the air, they realize the wind is carrying them over the ocean. Watching their homeland disappear on the horizon, they wonder how much longer the balloon will stay aloft.

As the hours pass and the surface of the ocean draws closer, the men decide they must cast some of the weight overboard because they have no way to heat the air in the balloon. Shoes, overcoats, and weapons are reluctantly discarded, and the uncomfortable aviators feel their balloon rise.

However, it isn't long before they find themselves dangerously close to the waves again, so they toss their food overboard. Unfortunately, this, too, is only a temporary solution, and the craft again threatens to lower the men into the sea. One man has an idea: they can tie the ropes that hold the passenger car and sit on them. They they can cut away the basket beneath them. As they do this, the balloon rises again.

Not a minute too soon, they spot land. The five jump into the water and swim to the island. They are alive because they were able to discern the difference between what was really needed and what was not. The "necessities" they once thought they couldn't live without were the very weights that almost cost them their lives.

Why not make an honest assessment of the things that might be slowing you down today? Are they physical or spiritual necessities for you or someone you love? What would your life be like without them? If you eliminated them, would you have more time for the things in your life that really matter?

Ask God to show you how your life could be improved if you made some changes and dropped some things that are weighing you down.

It's not enough to be busy...the question is what are we busy about?
Henry David Thoreau

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Friday, November 14, 2008

The Day's Accomplishments

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!

When I stepped outside this morning, with acorns crunching under my feet, I could see the full moon dimly shining through the fast moving clouds. It looked like fog high up. The sun still isn't shining, but maybe that means rain. Hopefully so!

All was calm and peaceful in the Park yesterday... at least on the surface. We never know what is going on underneath the water and in the deep forest. I like to watch the egrets when they look for fish. They are so intent, with eyes focused on their next meal, and the small green herons perch on low branches and are just as intent looking for their food. The anhingas dive down and come up with fish too big to swallow easily, so they juggle and juggle the fish, until it is turned just the right way, so it will slip down the throat easily. Personally, I prefer my fish cooked. :o)

From Quiet Moments with God:

"In him we live and move and have our being."
Acts 17:28 KJV

If asked whether it's better to be proud or humble, most people would say "humble," since we have been taught that pride is a sin. However, if we think being humble means we are to denigrate ourselves or settle for mediocrity, we have the wrong definition of humility.

Humility is remaining teachable in all situations, knowing God is so much greater and we have so much to learn. Humility comes when we recognize God loves us just the way we are and that He will be patient as we strive to become like Him in character, word, and deed.

Motivational speaker and author Denis Waitley has written:

When you come down to the bottom line, joy is accepting yourself as you are right now--an imperfect, changing, growing, and worthwhile person. Realize that liking yourself and feeling that you're an OK individual in your own special way is not necessarily egotistical.
Take pride in what your are accomplishing, and even more importantly, enjoy the unique person you are just in being alive right now. Understand the truth that although we as individuals are not born with equal physical and mental attributes, we are born with equal rights to feel the excitement and joy in believing we deserve the very best in life."

If you scored a victory today, if you won the prize, if you did the right thing, if you moved beyond yourself and extended an act of love and charity to another human being, rejoice in it! Delight in your awareness that the Lord is working in your life and through your life.

To delight in the Lord's work isn't pride. It's a form of praise to your Father who is proud of you any time you succeed according to His principles and design. All the glory goes to Him. It is because of him that we can succeed.

"The smile of God is victory."
John Greenleaf Whittier

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis ( Happy Birthday, Sue!)

Thursday, November 13, 2008

HALT!

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! I noticed when I stepped outside this morning, that we had some rain during the night. It wasn't much, but after praying for rain, I thank God. Of course, I didn't mention how much rain we needed, but I am sure He knows!

The full moon was shining dimly in the west, but due to clouds was not as bright as it probably will be tonight.

Yesterday lots of people were enjoying the Park. I saw out of state tags and hometown tags, so there is something for everyone to enjoy! An egret was perched on a tree over the water and a couple turtles were sunning themselves. "All creatures great and small, the Lord God loves them all!" God is good!

From Quiet Moments with God devotional:

Hebrews 12:1 TLB Let us strip off anything that slows us down or holds us back, and especially those sins that wrap themselves so tightly around our feet and trip us up.

Those who counsel the clinically depressed often suggest the HALT! method to their patients. HALT is an acronym based upon these four words:

. Hungry
. Angry
. Lonely
. Tired

Too much of any of these conditions can result in a stress overload and lead to a downward spiral that eventually crashes into a form of depression. When two or more of these conditions are present, the downward plunge happens faster, with greater pain. And, if all four conditions are present as an ongoing pattern in a person's life, the person's depression may not only be deep, but life itself may be endangered.

To compound the problem, hunger anger, loneliness, and exhaustion tend to cluster together. If you are overly tired, it's easier to become angry. If you have missed a meal, you are likely to get tired more quickly, and so forth.

Therefore, any time you are feeling too hungry, too angry, too lonely, or too tired...it's time to call a HALT! and to take immediate remedial action. Have a healthy bite to eat. Release your anger in prayer, exercise, or an act of reconciliation. Call a friend, and pour out your heart. Take a nap, or go to bed early.

"Call it to a halt" and "enough is enough" are well-known phrases we need to apply on a daily basis. Don't neglect your personal nutrition. Get enough sleep. Balance your life with friendships. Live in peace with the people around you.

As you prepare to come to the end of your workday, it's especially important you remember to HALT!. Don't push yourself into overdrive, even if you have to work overtime. Avoid setting yourself up for a crash by staying well fed, calm, in touch with friends, and refreshed.

"Holy Leisure" refers to a sense of balance in the life, an ability to be at peace through the activities of the day, an ability to rest and take time to enjoy beauty. An ability to pace ourselves.
Richard Foster

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs.
Amaryllis

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Hope

Good 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!

I overslept this morning, so when I stepped outside, it was already daylight and cloudy, so no moon or stars. Now the sky has cleared, so I guess no rain. Sigh. All in God's time.

I watched birds gathering over a small bowl of water I keep on the low wall on our front porch. They seemed to be taking turns, so I refilled it. They like to take baths in it, and it is really too small for that, but there is much splashing, so I guess, to them it is very refreshing.God is good!

I am having to use city water to do a little watering, since our pump needs priming. If I don't use it much, it loses its prime.

I notice they are having trouble with the irrigation at the Park, also, since a few months ago. Terry had said there was an electrical problem, and no one has fixed it yet. They have several wells at the Park to take care of all the sprinklers.

All of the birds and animals have to drink from the canal, now. I saw a gopher tortoise yesterday and a large snapping turtle sunning. It was peaceful in God's Kingdom.

From the Promise Bible NLT:

What is my Hope?

1 Peter 1:21 Through Christ you have come to trust in God. And because God raised Christ from the dead and gave him great glory, your faith and hope can be placed confidently in God.

The resurrection, the greatest event in history, is the foundation of our hope.

1 Peter 1:3-6 All honor to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, for it is by his boundless mercy that God has given us the privilege of being born again. Now we live with a wonderful expectation because Jesus Christ rose again from the dead. For God has reserved a priceless inheritance for his children. It is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. And God, in his mighty power, will protect you until you receive this salvation, because you are trusting him. It will be revealed on the last day for all to see. So be truly glad! There is wonderful joy ahead, even though it is necessary for you to endure many trials for a while.

When people get motion sickness, they need to fix their eyes on the horizon in order to regain composure. Remaining fixed on a point in the distance helps us travel. Jesus' followers fix their eyes on an eternal horizon. This gives us hope in all the discomforts of daily life.

How can I have hope when times are tough?

Hebrews 10: 23 Without wavering, let us hold tightly to the hope we say we have, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.

Our hope is rooted in God's integrity and faithfulness. When everything else falls apart we can cling to the fact that God keeps his word.

John 16:33 Don't be troubled. You trust God, now trust in me. 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.

Our troubles do not surprise the Lord and should not surprise us. Trouble is rampant in this fallen world. Our focus should be on Jesus who has overcome this world and all its troubles.

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

God is Good

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 early this morning, the air was not quite as cool as yesterday. I saw lots of stars, some much brighter than others. I don't know when the moon sets, but last night it was almost full and gorgeous in the sky almost directly overhead our house. It will be full on the 13th.

I saw a little drama yesterday in the park. An egret was pecking in the mud on the lake bank across from the canal, and a large gator was in a crouching position just a few feet away. The egret looked very unconcerned, but I am sure was quite aware of the danger. When we came back out, the gator's tail was only visible as he had gone down into the water. Hopefully, he didn't get the egret!

From Quiet Moments with God:

Luke 14:10 KJV
"Friend, go up higher"

An ancient legend of a swan and a crane tells us about God's goodness-which may be different from what we believe to be good:

A beautiful swan came to rest by the banks of a pond where a crane was wading, seeking snails. For a few minutes the crane looked at the swan and then asked, "Where do you come from?"

The swan replied, "I come from Heaven!"

"And where is Heaven?" asked the crane.

"Heaven!" replied the swan, "Heaven!" Have you never heard of Heaven?" And the beautiful swan went on to describe the splendor and grandeur of the eternal city. She told the crane about the streets of gold and the gates and walls made of precious stones. She told about the river of life which was as pure as crystal. On the banks of this river stood a tree with leaves for the healing of the nations of the world. In great and eloquent language, the swan described the hosts of saints and angels who lived in the world beyond.

Somewhat surprisingly, the crane didn't appear to be the least bit interested in this place the swan described. Eventually he asked the swan, "Are there any snails there?:

"Snails!" declared the swan, obviously revolted at the thought. "No! Of course there are not!"

"Then you can have your Heaven," said the crane, as it continued in search along the slimy, muddy banks of the pond.

"What I want is snails!"

This fable has a profound truth in it, How many of us turn our backs on the good God has for us in order to search for snails?

Seek out the good that God has for you today. Ask God to give you the desire for His good, instead of what you consider to be good. Don't bury your head deep in slime when God wants you to experience the delights and joy of His Heaven!

OUR LOVE FOR GOD IS TESTED BY THE QUESTION OF WHETHER WE SEEK HIM OR HIS GIFTS.
Ralph Washington Sockman

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Monday, November 10, 2008

Proper Form

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 chilly, but the stars were lighting up the sky. However, I didn't linger long, because I didn't have a jacket on! Brrr! I turned on the heat to warm the house a bit, but I went out to give the staghorn fern a banana peel and the air had warmed up some, so the bright sun will soon warm everything up.

Yesterday was such a beautiful day, I decided to go for a walk, and so did a hundred others! Every picnic table was full, and lots of cars in the parking lot. I walked on to the entrance bridge at the park, and a big family was blocking the way, taking photos of a gator just under the bridge. Then I walked on dodging strollers and people, to the first shelter and more families were gazing at Mama gator and her babies. Mama was totally out of the water and right beside the shelter in full view. I noticed that the water lilies had been sprayed, including the mudbank where the babies liked to hang out, so I don't think she was too happy with that situation..I walked on to the tower, and the wind was blowing and cool, so I went on back the different way, and saw a gator on the bank across from the entrance bridge, also attracting a lot of attention. God is good!

From Quiet Moments with God:

1 Peter 1:15,16 ASV
As he who called you is holy, be ye yourselves also holy in all manner of living because it is written, ye shall be holy, for I am holy.

A father tells a story of an afternoon once spent with his three-year-old daughter. An avid golfer, he was practicing with his clubs in the yard while she played nearby. As he prepared for each swing, he would look to his left to aim the shot, then back to his right to make sure the child was out of harm's way-only then would he take his shot.

Soon, he noticed that his daughter was also "playing golf," She had taken a stick to use as a club, and he watched as she set her "club," carefully looked left, then right, then took her shot. In her perception, proper golfing form required that you look both ways before you swing.

Whether we realize it or not, our example leaves an impression on others. In the 1800s, English minister Charles Spurgeion put it this way:

A man's life is always more forcible than his speech. When men take stock of him they reckon his deeds as dollars and his words as pennies. If his life and doctrine disagree the mass of onlookers accept his practice and reject his preaching.

When Jesus said, "You are the light of the world," He wasn't speaking only of our verbal witness. The most profound message we will ever send is the one we live on a day-to-day basis. And it's never more important than when we don't know anyone is paying attention.

Because Someone is always paying attention.

In darkness there is no choice.
It is light that enables us
to see the difference between
things, and it is Christ who gives us light.
Augustus W. Hare

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Friday, November 7, 2008

Psoaring thru Psalm 19

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 much earlier this morning, I could see stars all over the night sky, for the first time this week, No clouds! I noticed the big dipper and all the other galaxies, before going in out of the coolness. God is Awesome!

It warmed up so much, by the time we came back from Louis' treatment, that I didn't attempt to walk, but did drive through the park and saw lots of people out enjoying the beautiful weather. I watched an egret sitting on a branch low over the water, and squirrels scurrying about. They don't have to worry about enough food, because all the oak trees have a super abundance of acorns this year. Our driveway is full!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Psalm 19

The heavens tell of the glory of God. The skies display his marvelous craftsmanship. Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. They speak without a sound or a word; their voice is silent in the skies, yet their message has gone out to all the earth and their words to all the world.

The sun lives in the heavens where God placed it. It bursts forth like a radiant bridegroom after his wedding. It rejoices like a great athlete eager to run the race. The sun rises at one end of the heavens and follows its course to the other end. Nothing can hide from its heat.

The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul. The decrees of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The commandments of the Lord are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are clear, giving insight to life. Reverence for the Lord is pure, lasting forever. The laws of the Lord are true, each one is fair. They are sweeter than honey, even honey dripping from the comb. They are a warning to those who hear them; there is great reward for those who hear them.

How can I know all the sins lurking in my heart? Cleanse me from these hidden faults. Keep me from deliberate sins! Don't let them control me. Then I will be free of guilt and innocent of great sin.

May the words of my mouth and the thoughts of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.


I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Everyone's a Critic

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! Another overcast day which was not predicted. I wouldn't mind at all if it would only bring rain, but all in God's timing.

Well, we have a new president-elect and now we all have to pray. "If my people who are called by my name, shall humble themselves and pray, then I will heal their land." Not an exact quotation, but close. We used to sing that scripture from Chronicles in choir. Always one of my favorites.

We drove through the Park yesterday and saw the grass was freshly mowed, and lots of people hanging over the bridge railing, looking at a passing gator. I am hoping to walk this morning, before taking Louis for his treatment, which seems to be going well. He has about three weeks more and then, hopefully, we are finished!

From Quiet Moments with God:

Let those also who suffer according to the will of God entrust their souls to a faithful creator in doing what is right.
1 Peter 4:19 NASB

Winston Churchill exemplified integrity and respect in the face of opposition. During his last year in office, he attended an official ceremony. Several rows behind him two gentlemen began whispering, "That's Winston Churchill. They say he is getting senile. They say he should step aside and leave the running of the nation to more dynamic and capable men."

When the ceremony ended, Churchill turned to the men and said, "Gentlemen, they also say he is deaf!"

Most people find it difficult to ignore the brunt of public opinion. It's easier to do things they don't want to do, or not do what they feel is right, rather than stand up for their own desires and convictions. One writer called it "worshiping the god of other people's opinion."

In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson:

Whatever you do, you need courage. Whatever course you decide upon, there is always someone to tell you you are wrong. There are always difficulties arising that tempt you to believe that your critics are right. To map out a course of action and follow it to an end requires some of the same courage that a soldier needs. Peace has its victories, but it takes brave people to win them.

Ignoring the god of other people's opinion requires strength and focus. Fortunately, we know the God who can grant us that strength and stand with us as we pursue the paths we feel are right. His opinion is the only one that counts.

Take courage. We walk in the wilderness today and in the promised land tomorrow.
Dwight Lyman Moody

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis