Monday, August 25, 2008

Righteous Fruit

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 in the darkness this morning, I was surprised to see the quarter moon hanging in the east, brightly shining, with what looked like the little dipper to the right of it. (I don't know my constellations too well). But the surprise was, no clouds! The sky is clear and blue this morning. Yay!

I walked Saturday with my umbrella for shade and for protection from the drippy trees. Much water is now everywhere in the Park and Mama gator was at the base of the nest with a garland of leaves across her nose. She reminded me of the Olympic wreath. :o) Still no sign of the babies hatching after the excitement of last week.

After church yesterday, we drove through the park, and saw two police cars and a couple civilian cars on the weir, along with a Channel 8 truck. I was pretty curious, so watched the news and it seems a gator was found wandering around the street not far away, so the deputies brought him to Sawgrass to release him into the water. They had him taped and tied up, of course. but, at least, they didn't dispose of him. God is good!

From Quiet Moments with God:

The role of quiet places played a very important role in the Bible, especially in the area of faith. Christ was alone during much of his life on earth. He would often retreat from the multitudes for quiet reflection. Moses went alone to the mountain to speak with God. While there, he received the Ten Commandments, one of the cornerstones of our faith. Daniel risked death three times a day, when he would cease from his labors and pray.

The Holy Spirit often speaks to us when we are alone. Quiet places produce peace and contentment. Noise breeds confusion. Order is often regained in silence.

Restaurants and other public places have become so congested with noise that it makes some of these places uncomfortable to sit in..

Yet we may yearn for times when we can think, be quiet, and listen to God. Finding time-actually, making time -for the still times is often a daunting challenge.

If righteousness is sown in peace, then the quiet times when we just sit, listen, and wait for the Lord to speak must produce what is essential for spiritual growth. Seeking quiet time for reflection helps us commune with God. As a result, His righteousness wears off on us, and we begin to pick up some of His characteristics.

The Lord has time to spend with us and is ready to grow His Spirit within us. It is up to us to make the appointment.

The seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace
James 3:18 NASB

We all need a quiet hideaway
where the mind can rest
and the soul can heal.
Cherie Rayburn

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

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis