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 just a mite cooler, not much, but whatever coolness happens, we will take it! The acorns are falling faster than they can be cleaned up, and faster than the squirrels can eat them. The little furry critters should be very fat by now!
Yesterday was so hot and the humidity so high, that after I finished sweeping the porch, I was drippy, so I decided it would be a nice day to rest and spend it quietly in the air conditioned house, which is what we did! God is good!
Ephesians 6:15 NLT
So be careful how you live, not as fools but as those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity for doing good in these evil days. Don't act thoughtlessly, but try to understand what the Lord wants you to do. Don't be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, let the holy Spirit fill and control you. then you will sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among your selves, making music to the Lord in your hearts. And you will always give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
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. May he be given glory in the church and in Christ Jesus forever and ever through endless ages.
Amen!
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, October 30, 2009
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Psoaring thru Psalm 37
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! The Stars were all in place early this morning...hard to believe they are still there even when the sun is shining, but they are always constant. I was out early, digging in the garbage for something I should not have thrown away, and spoke to two walkers who were getting their morning exercise. People are determined to stay fit! Good for them!
The park was peaceful and the shadows were getting long when we visited late afternoon. The great blue heron was in place keeping vigilant watch over the water, as usual. Surprisingly, the edge of the bank had been mowed. First time in months! Maybe the gator will start sunning himself on the bank again. I was curious about seeing all the moss that seems to be more noticeable now..maybe it's because the staff used to keep it pulled off the trees. Anyway, it was hanging off just about each tree and looked very southern. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Trust in the Lord and do good,
Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.
Take delight in the Lord
and he will give you your heart's desires.
Commit everything you do to the Lord,
Trust him and he will help you.
He will make your innocence as clear as the dawn,
and the justice of your cause will shine
like the noonday sun.
Be still in the presence of the Lord,
and wait patiently for him to act.
Don't worry about evil people who prosper
or fret about their wicked schemes.
...It is better to be godly and have little
than to be evil and possess much.
For the strength of the wicked will be shattered
but the Lord takes care of the godly...
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
The park was peaceful and the shadows were getting long when we visited late afternoon. The great blue heron was in place keeping vigilant watch over the water, as usual. Surprisingly, the edge of the bank had been mowed. First time in months! Maybe the gator will start sunning himself on the bank again. I was curious about seeing all the moss that seems to be more noticeable now..maybe it's because the staff used to keep it pulled off the trees. Anyway, it was hanging off just about each tree and looked very southern. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Trust in the Lord and do good,
Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.
Take delight in the Lord
and he will give you your heart's desires.
Commit everything you do to the Lord,
Trust him and he will help you.
He will make your innocence as clear as the dawn,
and the justice of your cause will shine
like the noonday sun.
Be still in the presence of the Lord,
and wait patiently for him to act.
Don't worry about evil people who prosper
or fret about their wicked schemes.
...It is better to be godly and have little
than to be evil and possess much.
For the strength of the wicked will be shattered
but the Lord takes care of the godly...
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Ministry
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 have clouds this morning and a nice little rain fell last evening and I am thankful for that. I could not see any stars or the moon this morning, but know they were there above the clouds. God is Awesome!
I have not seen the gecko in our bathroom for the past two days, so I am hoping he has fled the premises with his sticky little feet. I would rather they stay outside. For awhile they were laying eggs in our mailbox, but not lately. Strange little critters! I watched a great blue heron cleaning his feathers again yesterday at the park. Two days in a row, now. That is kind of unusual because I have never seen that before. There was a boat with a large trash can in it tied up at the weir, so someone was cleaning out the canal, which was good. It gets a lot of trash washed down from in back of the houses across from the canal, when the rain comes down. First thing you see when driving into the park, so it is good to keep it clean!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ministry
What is God calling me to do?
Matthew 9:37 He said to his disciples, "The harvest is so great, but the workers are so few."
People are ready to hear and receive the Good News of God's love. But with this promise comes the responsibility to work and to pray. The Lord expects us to enter fully into his work of reaching the world with the love of God.
Matthew 16:18-19 Now I say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it. And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven. Whatever you lack on earth will be locked in heaven, and whatever you open on earth will be opened in heaven.
As followers of Christ, we are part of the church, or the people of God. God has promised that we will overcome the kingdom of darkness and secure his victory . We must not be on the defensive, thinking we will one day lose. We should take the offensive and overcome evil with good.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I have not seen the gecko in our bathroom for the past two days, so I am hoping he has fled the premises with his sticky little feet. I would rather they stay outside. For awhile they were laying eggs in our mailbox, but not lately. Strange little critters! I watched a great blue heron cleaning his feathers again yesterday at the park. Two days in a row, now. That is kind of unusual because I have never seen that before. There was a boat with a large trash can in it tied up at the weir, so someone was cleaning out the canal, which was good. It gets a lot of trash washed down from in back of the houses across from the canal, when the rain comes down. First thing you see when driving into the park, so it is good to keep it clean!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ministry
What is God calling me to do?
Matthew 9:37 He said to his disciples, "The harvest is so great, but the workers are so few."
People are ready to hear and receive the Good News of God's love. But with this promise comes the responsibility to work and to pray. The Lord expects us to enter fully into his work of reaching the world with the love of God.
Matthew 16:18-19 Now I say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it. And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven. Whatever you lack on earth will be locked in heaven, and whatever you open on earth will be opened in heaven.
As followers of Christ, we are part of the church, or the people of God. God has promised that we will overcome the kingdom of darkness and secure his victory . We must not be on the defensive, thinking we will one day lose. We should take the offensive and overcome evil with good.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Planning Part Two
Good morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the cloudy, windy day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! The sun is up somewhere, I think, but here is is still dark and kind of gloomy, but I really hope it rains, because we need it!
Yesterday, I ran some errands, but had nothing in particular that needed doing, after the home care helper came, so I went to Five Guys and bought a tasty, but not particularly healthy hot dog, and then went to the park, where I stood under the shelter and just looked at the water, and enjoyed the breeze for awhile. I saw a large turtle sunning himself on a fallen log, and several turtles on the weir, also catching some rays. God is good!
What if my plans fall short of God's plans for me?
Ephesians 19:21 You can make many plans, but the Lord's purpose will prevail.
Our plans cannot mess up God's plans!
What gives me confidence in any plans?
Ephesians 1:9-10 God's secret plan has now been revealed to us; it is a plan centered on Christ, designed long ago according his good pleasure. And this is his plan. At the right time he will bring everything together under the authority of Christ--everything in heaven and on earth.
God is in control of all things and always has been. Jesus Christ, who is now resurrected and ruling, will govern and guide us in the best possible ways.
Jeremiah 29:11 "I know the plans I have for you", declares the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you hope and a future.
Do not doubt God's good intentions for us. The wonder of creation, the evidence of his constant care, and the priceless gift of Jesus Christ for our salvation gives us confidence that he will establish all who trust in him.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday, I ran some errands, but had nothing in particular that needed doing, after the home care helper came, so I went to Five Guys and bought a tasty, but not particularly healthy hot dog, and then went to the park, where I stood under the shelter and just looked at the water, and enjoyed the breeze for awhile. I saw a large turtle sunning himself on a fallen log, and several turtles on the weir, also catching some rays. God is good!
What if my plans fall short of God's plans for me?
Ephesians 19:21 You can make many plans, but the Lord's purpose will prevail.
Our plans cannot mess up God's plans!
What gives me confidence in any plans?
Ephesians 1:9-10 God's secret plan has now been revealed to us; it is a plan centered on Christ, designed long ago according his good pleasure. And this is his plan. At the right time he will bring everything together under the authority of Christ--everything in heaven and on earth.
God is in control of all things and always has been. Jesus Christ, who is now resurrected and ruling, will govern and guide us in the best possible ways.
Jeremiah 29:11 "I know the plans I have for you", declares the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you hope and a future.
Do not doubt God's good intentions for us. The wonder of creation, the evidence of his constant care, and the priceless gift of Jesus Christ for our salvation gives us confidence that he will establish all who trust in him.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, October 26, 2009
Planning
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! The stars were very bright this morning early and I tried to see the quarter moon, but guess it had already set. It is a little cooler today and the blanket felt good last night.
We have an almost transparent gecko residing in our bathroom right now, and I wish he would leave. A few days ago, i escorted a very tiny baby gecko out the back door into the garage, where they usually live. I don't know if it was related or not to the adult, They can stay in the garage forever, but not in the house. The eyes are the only resemblance to the Geico gecko.
I watched a great blue heron preening and grooming his feathers at the weir at the park. For once he was not looking for something to eat, although he may have been getting ready for dinner! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How am I supposed to plan my life?
Proverbs 2:1-11 My child, listen to me and treasure my instructions. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight and understanding. Search for them as you would for lost money or hidden treasure. Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God. For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He grants a treasure of good sense to the godly. He is their shield, protecting those who walk with integrity. He guards the paths of justice and protects those who are faithful to him. Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair, and you will know how to find the right course of action every time. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy. Wise planning will watch over you. Understanding will keep you safe.
A plan is only as good as the information upon which it's based. Our human intellect is limited and inadequate. Apart from the Lord, our plans are liable to fail. the Lord promises wisdom to those who rely on his word and depend on his Spirit.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
We have an almost transparent gecko residing in our bathroom right now, and I wish he would leave. A few days ago, i escorted a very tiny baby gecko out the back door into the garage, where they usually live. I don't know if it was related or not to the adult, They can stay in the garage forever, but not in the house. The eyes are the only resemblance to the Geico gecko.
I watched a great blue heron preening and grooming his feathers at the weir at the park. For once he was not looking for something to eat, although he may have been getting ready for dinner! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How am I supposed to plan my life?
Proverbs 2:1-11 My child, listen to me and treasure my instructions. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight and understanding. Search for them as you would for lost money or hidden treasure. Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God. For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He grants a treasure of good sense to the godly. He is their shield, protecting those who walk with integrity. He guards the paths of justice and protects those who are faithful to him. Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair, and you will know how to find the right course of action every time. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy. Wise planning will watch over you. Understanding will keep you safe.
A plan is only as good as the information upon which it's based. Our human intellect is limited and inadequate. Apart from the Lord, our plans are liable to fail. the Lord promises wisdom to those who rely on his word and depend on his Spirit.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, October 23, 2009
Psoaring thru 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! It is still coolish and a bit more humid this morning, but whatever God sends is good!
I heard helicopters when I arose this morning, so turned on the news and heard about a fire over in the Town Apts. near here.
I stepped outside and saw a chopper hovering over 62nd ave and then another came and was hovering almost overhead, while slowing moving backward. I pray no one was hurt. A lot of older people live in those apartments, and there was a fire there many years ago which took out a whole unit.
Yesterday, David came and mowed and had the yard looking very nice and the tree man came at the same time to estimate the cost of trimming the huge oaks. I think I will have that done early next month, much to the dismay of the squirrels!
Speaking of squirrels, while driving through the park yesterday, one dashed across in front of me, narrowly escaping danger! They are fearless as I watch them leap from our trees to the roof...a leap of about six feet! They are amazing!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 138
I give you thanks, O Lord, with all my heart;
I will sing your praises before the gods.
I bow before your holy Temple as I worship.
I will give thanks to your name
for your unfailing love and faithfulness,
because your promises are backed
by the honor of your name.
When I pray, you answer me,
you encourage me by giving me the
strength I need....
Though I am surrounded by troubles,
you will preserve me against the anger
of my enemies.
You will clench your fist against my angry
enemies!
Your power will save me.
The Lord will work out his plans for my life--
for your faithful love, O Lord, endures
forever.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I heard helicopters when I arose this morning, so turned on the news and heard about a fire over in the Town Apts. near here.
I stepped outside and saw a chopper hovering over 62nd ave and then another came and was hovering almost overhead, while slowing moving backward. I pray no one was hurt. A lot of older people live in those apartments, and there was a fire there many years ago which took out a whole unit.
Yesterday, David came and mowed and had the yard looking very nice and the tree man came at the same time to estimate the cost of trimming the huge oaks. I think I will have that done early next month, much to the dismay of the squirrels!
Speaking of squirrels, while driving through the park yesterday, one dashed across in front of me, narrowly escaping danger! They are fearless as I watch them leap from our trees to the roof...a leap of about six feet! They are amazing!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 138
I give you thanks, O Lord, with all my heart;
I will sing your praises before the gods.
I bow before your holy Temple as I worship.
I will give thanks to your name
for your unfailing love and faithfulness,
because your promises are backed
by the honor of your name.
When I pray, you answer me,
you encourage me by giving me the
strength I need....
Though I am surrounded by troubles,
you will preserve me against the anger
of my enemies.
You will clench your fist against my angry
enemies!
Your power will save me.
The Lord will work out his plans for my life--
for your faithful love, O Lord, endures
forever.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Empowering
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, I could not see the stars, because the clouds were drifting over them, but now. the sky has cleared and it is beautiful and clear! God is good!
While I was running errands yesterday, I stopped at the park and admired all the greenery and the squirrels running everywhere. I also saw the great blue heron keeping vigil at the edge of the bank, as he searched for food. There is plenty for everyone there, even the armadillos!
This morning I saw the feral black cat that lives around here, taking a drink out of the container that I keep on the porch wall for the birds and squirrels. The cat has done that before, and I don't have the heart to run her off. If I feed her, the law considers her mine and I have to take her for shots and to the vet and I can't do that and take care of hubby. Sigh. But she looks healthy. I have a friend who spent about seven hundred on a stray cat that she took care of. She has a huge heart! God loves all the creatures of the world!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ephesians 6 excerpts
Work hard, but not just to please your masters when they are watching. As slaves of Christ, do the will of God with all your heart. Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free.
A final word: be strong with the Lord's mighty power. Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil. For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms.
Use every piece of God's armor to resist the enemy in the time of evil, so that after the battle you will be standing firm.
May God give you peace, dear brothers and sister, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. May God's grace be upon all who love oiur Lord Jesus Christ with an undying 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 not see the stars, because the clouds were drifting over them, but now. the sky has cleared and it is beautiful and clear! God is good!
While I was running errands yesterday, I stopped at the park and admired all the greenery and the squirrels running everywhere. I also saw the great blue heron keeping vigil at the edge of the bank, as he searched for food. There is plenty for everyone there, even the armadillos!
This morning I saw the feral black cat that lives around here, taking a drink out of the container that I keep on the porch wall for the birds and squirrels. The cat has done that before, and I don't have the heart to run her off. If I feed her, the law considers her mine and I have to take her for shots and to the vet and I can't do that and take care of hubby. Sigh. But she looks healthy. I have a friend who spent about seven hundred on a stray cat that she took care of. She has a huge heart! God loves all the creatures of the world!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ephesians 6 excerpts
Work hard, but not just to please your masters when they are watching. As slaves of Christ, do the will of God with all your heart. Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free.
A final word: be strong with the Lord's mighty power. Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil. For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms.
Use every piece of God's armor to resist the enemy in the time of evil, so that after the battle you will be standing firm.
May God give you peace, dear brothers and sister, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. May God's grace be upon all who love oiur Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Psoaring thru Psalm 145
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! What a beautiful sight in the heavens when I stepped outside this morning! Lots of stars, because the moon has not made and appearance yet. Cool Temps and warming up later back to our normal quite warm weather! I took the warm blanket off the bed last night since we have warmer weather now at night.
Yesterday, after a visit to the skin doctor for Louis, we drove downtown in beautiful St. Petersburg, by the pretty waterfront and on to pick up some hot dogs and milkshakes and took them to the park for a picnic. It was a gorgeous day to enjoy the breeze and people watch! I needed to rest after almost dropping Louis and myself negotiating the fairly steep ramp to wheel him into the doctor's office! One of the assistants came and rescued us and I was relieved! God is Good!
BTW, I saw a car full of people stopped and looking at a gator as we left the park. The gator was in the borrow pit lake with the head visible. Seems like the cool weather has the critters on the move!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 145
...The Lord is faithful in all he says,
he is gracious in all he does.
The Lord helps the fallen, and lifts up those bent beneath their loads.
All eyes look to you for help;
you give them their food as they need it.
When you open your hand ,
you satisfy the hunger and thirst of every living thing.
The Lord is righteous in everything he does;
he is filled with kindness.
The Lord is close to all who call on him,
yes, to all who call on him sincerely.
He fulfills the desires of those who fear him;
he hears their cries for help and rescues them.
The Lord protects all those who love him
and he destroys the wicked.
I will praise the Lord,
and everyone on earth will bless his holy name
forever and forever.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday, after a visit to the skin doctor for Louis, we drove downtown in beautiful St. Petersburg, by the pretty waterfront and on to pick up some hot dogs and milkshakes and took them to the park for a picnic. It was a gorgeous day to enjoy the breeze and people watch! I needed to rest after almost dropping Louis and myself negotiating the fairly steep ramp to wheel him into the doctor's office! One of the assistants came and rescued us and I was relieved! God is Good!
BTW, I saw a car full of people stopped and looking at a gator as we left the park. The gator was in the borrow pit lake with the head visible. Seems like the cool weather has the critters on the move!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 145
...The Lord is faithful in all he says,
he is gracious in all he does.
The Lord helps the fallen, and lifts up those bent beneath their loads.
All eyes look to you for help;
you give them their food as they need it.
When you open your hand ,
you satisfy the hunger and thirst of every living thing.
The Lord is righteous in everything he does;
he is filled with kindness.
The Lord is close to all who call on him,
yes, to all who call on him sincerely.
He fulfills the desires of those who fear him;
he hears their cries for help and rescues them.
The Lord protects all those who love him
and he destroys the wicked.
I will praise the Lord,
and everyone on earth will bless his holy name
forever and forever.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
God's Promises
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the cool day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Once again, blankets on the bed felt good because it is still chilly outside. We haven't had the heat on, yet, and it is supposed to warm up again toward the end of the week and be in the high eighties, so winter is not here permanently! God is good!
I thought the squirrels did all their family planning in the spring, but they have been building nests in our oak trees, as evidenced by all the twigs on the ground today. I stepped outside earlier and saw a very large mess of them under the tree. The squirrels were scampering around and around the large oak yesterday, playing, I thought, Maybe not. :o) Anyway, more work to clean up the yard.
Yesterday, as I drove into the Park, I saw a gator sunning on the bank of the lake where the gator attacked the woman walking her dog. First time I have seen one there in months! And on the other side on the bank of the weir, three turtles were catching some rays. The mowers were at work, tidying up the places where most of the people hang out, especially on the berms by the canal, where children like to roll down the hill. It was a lovely day and people were enjoying it!
From the little book God's Promises:
We Rely on God to guide our lives:
Have you not known?
Have you not heard?
The everlasting God, the Lord,
the Creator of the ends of the earth,
Neither faints nor is weary.
His understanding is unsearchable.
He gives power to the weak,
And to those who have no might He increases strength.
Even the youths shall faint and be weary,
And the young men shall utterly fall,
But those who wait on the Lord
Shall renew their strength;
They shall mount up with wings like eagles,
They shall run and not be weary,
They shall walk and not faint.
Isaiah 4o:28-31
Fear not, for I am with you;
Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you.
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I thought the squirrels did all their family planning in the spring, but they have been building nests in our oak trees, as evidenced by all the twigs on the ground today. I stepped outside earlier and saw a very large mess of them under the tree. The squirrels were scampering around and around the large oak yesterday, playing, I thought, Maybe not. :o) Anyway, more work to clean up the yard.
Yesterday, as I drove into the Park, I saw a gator sunning on the bank of the lake where the gator attacked the woman walking her dog. First time I have seen one there in months! And on the other side on the bank of the weir, three turtles were catching some rays. The mowers were at work, tidying up the places where most of the people hang out, especially on the berms by the canal, where children like to roll down the hill. It was a lovely day and people were enjoying it!
From the little book God's Promises:
We Rely on God to guide our lives:
Have you not known?
Have you not heard?
The everlasting God, the Lord,
the Creator of the ends of the earth,
Neither faints nor is weary.
His understanding is unsearchable.
He gives power to the weak,
And to those who have no might He increases strength.
Even the youths shall faint and be weary,
And the young men shall utterly fall,
But those who wait on the Lord
Shall renew their strength;
They shall mount up with wings like eagles,
They shall run and not be weary,
They shall walk and not faint.
Isaiah 4o:28-31
Fear not, for I am with you;
Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you.
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, October 19, 2009
Psalm 23
Good chilly morning, dear Friends and Prayer Partners! I stepped outside this morning to a very chilly wind and 56 degree temps. I know it will warm up to the seventies today and later in the week will be much warmer, but I really was snuggled under the blankets this morning! But this is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it!
We went for a walk in the Park Saturday, because it was a glorious, cool overcast day, so I pushed the wheelchair as far as I could without my shoulders beginning to feel the strain and we both enjoyed the water and the green colors. The butterfly bushes that were planted a year ago to stop erosion by the bank of the canal are now towering overhead and bright with red blossoms. We actually saw a gator floating just a few feet from the bridge and lots of people hanging over looking at it. It has been a long time since I saw a gator in that water. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Some of you may prefer the KJV of this Psalm, which is the way I memorized it as a child, but this is also a good version.
The Lord is my shepherd;
I have everything I need.
He lets me rest in green meadows;
he leads me beside peaceful streams.
He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
bringing honor to his name.
Even when I walk
through the dark valley of death
I will not be afraid,
for you are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff
protect and comfort me.
You prepare a feast for me
in the presence of my enemies,
You welcome me as a guest,
anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.
Surely your goodness and unfailing love
will pursue me
all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the Lord
forever.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
We went for a walk in the Park Saturday, because it was a glorious, cool overcast day, so I pushed the wheelchair as far as I could without my shoulders beginning to feel the strain and we both enjoyed the water and the green colors. The butterfly bushes that were planted a year ago to stop erosion by the bank of the canal are now towering overhead and bright with red blossoms. We actually saw a gator floating just a few feet from the bridge and lots of people hanging over looking at it. It has been a long time since I saw a gator in that water. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Some of you may prefer the KJV of this Psalm, which is the way I memorized it as a child, but this is also a good version.
The Lord is my shepherd;
I have everything I need.
He lets me rest in green meadows;
he leads me beside peaceful streams.
He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
bringing honor to his name.
Even when I walk
through the dark valley of death
I will not be afraid,
for you are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff
protect and comfort me.
You prepare a feast for me
in the presence of my enemies,
You welcome me as a guest,
anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.
Surely your goodness and unfailing love
will pursue me
all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the Lord
forever.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, October 16, 2009
Psoaring thru Psalm 33
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! I saw no moon or stars this morning when I stepped outside; in fact, about 3 AM I was awakened by flashes of light through the drapes, which meant lightning and rain. The cold front is on its way! Guess I will have to go without the A/C tomorrow. Yay!
We had a quiet day yesterday. No outside experience, except the sewing machine man who is quite a character. He looks like a throw back to the hippie days and if I had not known him previously, I would not have let him in the house. He takes the bus every where, and collapsed into a chair as soon as he walked in the door, because of the heat and long walk he had. I gave him a bottle of water while he rested. He wears John Lennon like dark glasses and cowboy boots and a leather vest which he shed because it was so warm. But, he knows sewing machines from the inside out, and oiled and cleaned mine and got it in tip top shape even though it is very old and I hardly ever use it anymore.
God brings strange people into our lives sometimes. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Let the godly sing with joy to the Lord,
for it is fitting to praise him.
Praise the Lord with melodies on the lyre;
make music for him on the ten-stringed harp.
Sing new songs of praise to him;
play skillfully on the harp and sing with joy.
For the word of the Lord holds true,
and everything he does is worthy of our trust.
He loves whatever is just and good.
and his unfailing love fills the earth.
The Lord merely spoke,
and the heavens were created.
He breathed the word,
and all the stars were born.
He gave the sea its boundaries
and locked the oceans in vast
reservoirs. ...
Taste and see that the Lord is good.
Oh, the joys of those who trust in him...
Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry
but those who trust in the Lord will never
go hungry.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
P.S. We are having a downpour right now!
We had a quiet day yesterday. No outside experience, except the sewing machine man who is quite a character. He looks like a throw back to the hippie days and if I had not known him previously, I would not have let him in the house. He takes the bus every where, and collapsed into a chair as soon as he walked in the door, because of the heat and long walk he had. I gave him a bottle of water while he rested. He wears John Lennon like dark glasses and cowboy boots and a leather vest which he shed because it was so warm. But, he knows sewing machines from the inside out, and oiled and cleaned mine and got it in tip top shape even though it is very old and I hardly ever use it anymore.
God brings strange people into our lives sometimes. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Let the godly sing with joy to the Lord,
for it is fitting to praise him.
Praise the Lord with melodies on the lyre;
make music for him on the ten-stringed harp.
Sing new songs of praise to him;
play skillfully on the harp and sing with joy.
For the word of the Lord holds true,
and everything he does is worthy of our trust.
He loves whatever is just and good.
and his unfailing love fills the earth.
The Lord merely spoke,
and the heavens were created.
He breathed the word,
and all the stars were born.
He gave the sea its boundaries
and locked the oceans in vast
reservoirs. ...
Taste and see that the Lord is good.
Oh, the joys of those who trust in him...
Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry
but those who trust in the Lord will never
go hungry.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
P.S. We are having a downpour right now!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Prayer and Action
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! The sun is shining brightly on some towering white clouds, but earlier the crescent moon was cupped in the east and the stars are now shining brighter because of the disappearance of the moonlight. It looks like a gorgeous day ahead, even with more heat, but coolness is coming this weekend. God is good!
I watched a great blue heron at the Park, gazing intently at the water for his lunch. And then saw an anhinga drying out on the dead stump at the spot which looks like old Florida. Everything is very green and healthy looking from all the rain we had, but the grass has slowed down it growth, so winter must be coming on. It will be a nice change.
From HYMNS FOR THE FAMILY OF GOD:
God is not a personage who orders us to 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 and 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 Harvey and Christina Yates
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I watched a great blue heron at the Park, gazing intently at the water for his lunch. And then saw an anhinga drying out on the dead stump at the spot which looks like old Florida. Everything is very green and healthy looking from all the rain we had, but the grass has slowed down it growth, so winter must be coming on. It will be a nice change.
From HYMNS FOR THE FAMILY OF GOD:
God is not a personage who orders us to 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 and 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 Harvey and Christina Yates
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
1 Thessalonians
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! The thin sliver of the moon is still very bright in the early morning sky and not quite dimming the glory of the stars shining, but the air is not much cooler yet, although the weatherman says the next couple days will bring fall again. Can hardly wait!
I watched a large white egret land on the bank by the lake at the park yesterday and the anhinga was drying his wings while resting on a dead log. Squirrels were dashing madly in front of the car as i drove on the road. I think they like to play "chicken"! But all was quiet and simmering in the heat and bright sunshine. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
For all you Gator fans, this is the verse Tim Tebow wore on his cheek pads Saturday; 1 Thess. 5:18
Brothers and sisters, we urge you to warn those who are lazy,. Encourage those who are timid. Take tender care of those who are weak. Be patient with everyone.
See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to everyone else.
Always be joyful. Keep on praying. No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.
Do not stifle the Holy Spirit. Do not scoff at prophecies, but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good. Keep away from every kind of evil.
Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until that day when our Lord Jesus Christ comes again.
God, who calls you, is faithful; he will do this....
And may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all of you.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I watched a large white egret land on the bank by the lake at the park yesterday and the anhinga was drying his wings while resting on a dead log. Squirrels were dashing madly in front of the car as i drove on the road. I think they like to play "chicken"! But all was quiet and simmering in the heat and bright sunshine. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
For all you Gator fans, this is the verse Tim Tebow wore on his cheek pads Saturday; 1 Thess. 5:18
Brothers and sisters, we urge you to warn those who are lazy,. Encourage those who are timid. Take tender care of those who are weak. Be patient with everyone.
See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to everyone else.
Always be joyful. Keep on praying. No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.
Do not stifle the Holy Spirit. Do not scoff at prophecies, but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good. Keep away from every kind of evil.
Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until that day when our Lord Jesus Christ comes again.
God, who calls you, is faithful; he will do this....
And may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all of you.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
More joy
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 I thought I felt just a hint of coolness in the breeze. Could it be that real fall weather is coming again soon? The moon was still bright and has moved over to the east in preparing for its disappearance in a few days, and the stars were still twinkling brightly. God is good!
When I went to the Park yesterday, I was struck by the absence of birds, or animals in sight. I usually see an anhinga and squirrels but did not even see movement. Kinda strange, but maybe it was due to the heat. The weeds have grown very tall where the path that was opened where the woman was attacked by a gator happened. The path is now closed, but the gator is gone. My own thoughts are that the path should never have been opened. Just my humble opinion. But God is good and is Lord of all!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How can I be joyful in hard times?
Philippians 4:4 Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again---rejoice! ..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.
Joy is a choice. We may not realize it, but we choose our moods and our attitudes . God's promises in Christ are the basis for choosing joy no matter what we face.
James 1:2 Dear Brothers and sisters, whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy.
Troubles remind us of two things. First, they remind us that this is a fallen world full of futility and frustration. Second, they remind us to turn to a God who will never disappoint us. God promises lasting joy for all those who believe in Him. This kind of joy stays with us despite our problems.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
When I went to the Park yesterday, I was struck by the absence of birds, or animals in sight. I usually see an anhinga and squirrels but did not even see movement. Kinda strange, but maybe it was due to the heat. The weeds have grown very tall where the path that was opened where the woman was attacked by a gator happened. The path is now closed, but the gator is gone. My own thoughts are that the path should never have been opened. Just my humble opinion. But God is good and is Lord of all!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How can I be joyful in hard times?
Philippians 4:4 Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again---rejoice! ..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.
Joy is a choice. We may not realize it, but we choose our moods and our attitudes . God's promises in Christ are the basis for choosing joy no matter what we face.
James 1:2 Dear Brothers and sisters, whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy.
Troubles remind us of two things. First, they remind us that this is a fallen world full of futility and frustration. Second, they remind us to turn to a God who will never disappoint us. God promises lasting joy for all those who believe in Him. This kind of joy stays with us despite our problems.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, October 12, 2009
Joy
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 last quarter of the moon was shining clearly and the stars were visible still. No sign of the clouds that brought a short thunderstorm last night. It rained for about five minutes after dark. But we welcome the rain no matter how short!
We drove to beautiful downtown St. Petersburg the other day and admired the expensive yachts moored at the Vinoy basin and then cruised by the Kopsick garden and further on saw a wedding party at the water's edge. The minister was just crossing the street with robe flying and the male attendants were impressive in dress whites. It was a lovely warm day for a wedding.
I also was delighted to see a roseate spoonbill take off right beside me as I was traveling along a busy street. It soared around in front of the van and zoomed off toward the north! What a beautiful pink! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
JOY
Where does joy come from?
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!"
Zephaniah 3:17 The Lord your God has arrived to live among you. He is a mighty savior. He will rejoice over you with great gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will exult over you by singing a happy song.
Our joy springs from God's love, which is not dependent on circumstances nor on our performance. When we trust in his love for us, we are far less vulnerable to the depression and despair that could come from our problems and disappointments.
Revelation 21:4 He will remove all of their sorrows, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. For the old world and its evils are gone forever.
Our joy is rooted in the certainty of heaven, where we will be fully and finally liberated from the trials and troubles of this life.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
We drove to beautiful downtown St. Petersburg the other day and admired the expensive yachts moored at the Vinoy basin and then cruised by the Kopsick garden and further on saw a wedding party at the water's edge. The minister was just crossing the street with robe flying and the male attendants were impressive in dress whites. It was a lovely warm day for a wedding.
I also was delighted to see a roseate spoonbill take off right beside me as I was traveling along a busy street. It soared around in front of the van and zoomed off toward the north! What a beautiful pink! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
JOY
Where does joy come from?
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!"
Zephaniah 3:17 The Lord your God has arrived to live among you. He is a mighty savior. He will rejoice over you with great gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will exult over you by singing a happy song.
Our joy springs from God's love, which is not dependent on circumstances nor on our performance. When we trust in his love for us, we are far less vulnerable to the depression and despair that could come from our problems and disappointments.
Revelation 21:4 He will remove all of their sorrows, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. For the old world and its evils are gone forever.
Our joy is rooted in the certainty of heaven, where we will be fully and finally liberated from the trials and troubles of this life.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, October 9, 2009
Paul's Prayer
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, once again the portion of the visible moon was shining brightly and the sky was clear. Our large oak trees do not seem to be shedding acorns as fast as they were, but the squirrels have been busy nipping off branches for a new nest, I picked up a double hand full yesterday in the same spot where i picked up two days ago. They must be building a condo!
Because of the heat and the water in the street gutters drying up, we have been having a lot of birds come to the little pot of water I keep there for them and the squirrels to drink. Even the feral cat that hangs around, comes once in a while to drink. This is almost the second week of Oct. and we had a temp. of 91 yesterday!! There is a very little breeze today, so perhaps we won't notice the heat so much. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Colossians 1:9-12
So we have continued praying for you ever since we first heard about you. We ask God to give you a complete understanding of what he wants you to do in your lives, and we ask him to make you wise with spiritual wisdom. Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and you will continually do good, kind things for others. All the while, you will learn to know God better and better.
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.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Because of the heat and the water in the street gutters drying up, we have been having a lot of birds come to the little pot of water I keep there for them and the squirrels to drink. Even the feral cat that hangs around, comes once in a while to drink. This is almost the second week of Oct. and we had a temp. of 91 yesterday!! There is a very little breeze today, so perhaps we won't notice the heat so much. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Colossians 1:9-12
So we have continued praying for you ever since we first heard about you. We ask God to give you a complete understanding of what he wants you to do in your lives, and we ask him to make you wise with spiritual wisdom. Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and you will continually do good, kind things for others. All the while, you will learn to know God better and better.
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.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Character, con't.
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! The lop-sided moon was shining brightly, in the same position as yesterday, when I stepped outside this morning, Right overhead, but sinking slowly in the west. It was casting large shadows under the trees and the whole street was lit up with its brightness. God is good!
After a frustrating morning yesterday, Diane the home care nurse came, and I took off for a little rest and relaxation. I bought a fast food salad and went to the Park for a picnic by myself. I found a table in deep shade, and although the table was very dirty, I covered it and enjoyed the nice breeze. Afterwards, I walked to the canal and let the still waters restore my soul. I watched an anhinga waddle across the weir. The are totally unbalanced and very ungainly when they walk, but they are very graceful under water. God is Awesome!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What does God promise as we mature in godly character?
Matthew 5:8 God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God.
We will experience an increasing sense of God's presence and his blessing.
James 1:4 When your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything.
Romans 5:3-5 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us-they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us, and character strengthens our confident expectation of salvation. And this expectation will not disappoint us. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
As we mature in our faith, we will become stronger and stronger people. Character is like a muscle-it gets stronger with exercise. As our character develops, our confidence in our salvation increases, and the assurance of God's
love fills our hearts.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
After a frustrating morning yesterday, Diane the home care nurse came, and I took off for a little rest and relaxation. I bought a fast food salad and went to the Park for a picnic by myself. I found a table in deep shade, and although the table was very dirty, I covered it and enjoyed the nice breeze. Afterwards, I walked to the canal and let the still waters restore my soul. I watched an anhinga waddle across the weir. The are totally unbalanced and very ungainly when they walk, but they are very graceful under water. God is Awesome!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What does God promise as we mature in godly character?
Matthew 5:8 God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God.
We will experience an increasing sense of God's presence and his blessing.
James 1:4 When your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything.
Romans 5:3-5 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us-they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us, and character strengthens our confident expectation of salvation. And this expectation will not disappoint us. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
As we mature in our faith, we will become stronger and stronger people. Character is like a muscle-it gets stronger with exercise. As our character develops, our confidence in our salvation increases, and the assurance of God's
love fills our hearts.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Character
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 good view of the full moon as I stepped outside this morning! It was right over our house, so no wonder I slept fitfully last night! :o) The stars manage to shine in all their glory as if competing with the moon, but God is the brightest of all!
Well, we had two different Davids over yesterday. A contrast in personalities. One, dedicated to serving the Lord and helping people like us by snaking the toilet and the other, a non-believer who is also a helper for pay, but very practical and loving. He mows the yard for us and does other work outside. We are blessed to have friends like that! I first met the second David at the Park many years ago, and have followed his life through his divorce and other problems he has encountered. I keep praying for him and his family for their salvation and he has even asked me to pray for him on occasion. God is Good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Will God do anything to change my character, or is it all up to me?
Galatians 5:22-23 When the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, ans self-control. Here there is no conflict with the law.
Philippians 2:5, 12-13 Your attitude should be the same that Christ Jesus had. ...dearest friends, you were always so careful to follow my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away you must be even more careful to put into action God's saving work in your lives, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the desire to obey him and the power to do what pleases him.
A transformed character reflects God's work within us and our own choices. The Holy Spirit awakens our desire for love, integrity, and responsibility, but we must choose these in every situation.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Well, we had two different Davids over yesterday. A contrast in personalities. One, dedicated to serving the Lord and helping people like us by snaking the toilet and the other, a non-believer who is also a helper for pay, but very practical and loving. He mows the yard for us and does other work outside. We are blessed to have friends like that! I first met the second David at the Park many years ago, and have followed his life through his divorce and other problems he has encountered. I keep praying for him and his family for their salvation and he has even asked me to pray for him on occasion. God is Good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Will God do anything to change my character, or is it all up to me?
Galatians 5:22-23 When the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, ans self-control. Here there is no conflict with the law.
Philippians 2:5, 12-13 Your attitude should be the same that Christ Jesus had. ...dearest friends, you were always so careful to follow my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away you must be even more careful to put into action God's saving work in your lives, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the desire to obey him and the power to do what pleases him.
A transformed character reflects God's work within us and our own choices. The Holy Spirit awakens our desire for love, integrity, and responsibility, but we must choose these in every situation.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Help Others, Help Yourself
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 moon was shining brightly and stars were also clearly visible. The mist from yesterday was totally gone. Today is supposed to get up to the hundreds in the heat index, but thankfully, the A/C is working! God is good!
The mowers had just finished when I went to the park yesterday, but they are not bothering with the path where the lady was attacked by the gator last week. "Too soon old, and too late smart", a favorite saying of my late Pennsylvania Dutch grandmother. But the turtles were sunning and the canal water was quiet and all was peaceful. God is good!
From the book Quiet Moments with God:
As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead, also. James 2:26
Who comes to the rescue of towns torn apart by a tornado, or a church with a small congregation and smaller budget that needs much repair?
A group of mostly retirees in recreational vehicles. They travel throughout the South during the autumn and winter months, escaping cold temperatures and doing good along the way. Some are experienced in carpentry and construction, and some are not, but they all have the same goal: to make their time count by helping others.
The UMC chooses projects and assigns teams to each site. The workers, who pay all their expenses, meet at the appointed time and get right to work. To keep the jobs enjoyable, everyone works four days and then has three days off to relax and see the sights. The fun part, reported one woman volunteer, is the opportunity to have fellowship with like-minded people.
The same generosity of spirit, on a slightly different scale, is described in the Book of Acts. "All the believers, were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had. There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles' feet, and it was disstributed to anyone as he has need." (Acts 4:32,34-35)
When we have the chance to do good, we should jump at it. "In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets," Jesus said in Matthew 7:12. Jesus asked us to serve, and we will be blessed when we do so.
No act of kindness, however small is ever wasted.
Aesop
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
The mowers had just finished when I went to the park yesterday, but they are not bothering with the path where the lady was attacked by the gator last week. "Too soon old, and too late smart", a favorite saying of my late Pennsylvania Dutch grandmother. But the turtles were sunning and the canal water was quiet and all was peaceful. God is good!
From the book Quiet Moments with God:
As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead, also. James 2:26
Who comes to the rescue of towns torn apart by a tornado, or a church with a small congregation and smaller budget that needs much repair?
A group of mostly retirees in recreational vehicles. They travel throughout the South during the autumn and winter months, escaping cold temperatures and doing good along the way. Some are experienced in carpentry and construction, and some are not, but they all have the same goal: to make their time count by helping others.
The UMC chooses projects and assigns teams to each site. The workers, who pay all their expenses, meet at the appointed time and get right to work. To keep the jobs enjoyable, everyone works four days and then has three days off to relax and see the sights. The fun part, reported one woman volunteer, is the opportunity to have fellowship with like-minded people.
The same generosity of spirit, on a slightly different scale, is described in the Book of Acts. "All the believers, were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had. There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles' feet, and it was disstributed to anyone as he has need." (Acts 4:32,34-35)
When we have the chance to do good, we should jump at it. "In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets," Jesus said in Matthew 7:12. Jesus asked us to serve, and we will be blessed when we do so.
No act of kindness, however small is ever wasted.
Aesop
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, October 5, 2009
Words from James
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 last night to gaze at the full moon, I had a hard time seeing it, because of the mist over it, and this morning it is the same thing. A Misty moon. Sounds like a song title! :o) But, anyway, it is full. It did not outshine Venus, though, still glowing in the eastern sky. God is Good!
The great blue heron I saw in the park yesterday was very intent on watching for his dinner to swim along in the canal. I like to watch them try to get the fish at the right angle so they can swallow them easily. It takes a lot of work, and after all that work, they have a wiggly fish in the gullet! Wonder if it tickles? :o)
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Faith and Endurance
Dear Brothers and sisters, whenever troubles come 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.
If you need wisdom-if you want to 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....
God blesses the people who patiently endure testing. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
The great blue heron I saw in the park yesterday was very intent on watching for his dinner to swim along in the canal. I like to watch them try to get the fish at the right angle so they can swallow them easily. It takes a lot of work, and after all that work, they have a wiggly fish in the gullet! Wonder if it tickles? :o)
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Faith and Endurance
Dear Brothers and sisters, whenever troubles come 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.
If you need wisdom-if you want to 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....
God blesses the people who patiently endure testing. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, October 2, 2009
A Prayer from Hebrews
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! Did you see the almost full moon rising last night? It was awesome against the clear, pale blue sky! This morning, once again, the sky is clear and the stars were shining and the air is cool. But the coolness won't last long. Soon we will have summer back. Oh, well, God is Good!
I noticed the large leaves from the neighbor's almond tree are falling and our acorns are all over the driveway and porch and will be for months to come, but that is a sign of fall. The park looks the same...weeds three or four feet tall, and now that more lay-offs have taken place, it won't get mowed very often, as the mowing crew has many parks to take care of. I saw an osprey sitting on a power line looking over Turner's Creek at Gateway Mall. I have seen it there before, and think it must have a nest either at Sawgrass School or one of the parking lots nearby. They have to adjust, to the city growth all around them. God is Awesome!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
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.
Hebrews 13:20,21
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I noticed the large leaves from the neighbor's almond tree are falling and our acorns are all over the driveway and porch and will be for months to come, but that is a sign of fall. The park looks the same...weeds three or four feet tall, and now that more lay-offs have taken place, it won't get mowed very often, as the mowing crew has many parks to take care of. I saw an osprey sitting on a power line looking over Turner's Creek at Gateway Mall. I have seen it there before, and think it must have a nest either at Sawgrass School or one of the parking lots nearby. They have to adjust, to the city growth all around them. God is Awesome!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
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.
Hebrews 13:20,21
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, October 1, 2009
God's love is with a man when...
Good October morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! Brr! Almost chilly this morning! But 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 stars were shining more brightly than they had been, because the humidity is low. Well, at least that is my theory. Not scientific, I know. But it looks like it will be a beautiful day!
It was a nice day for a visit to the Park yesterday...cool air and bright, warm sunshine. My nose is much better, but I will still have to be careful in the sun, because it is very tender. I saw a beautiful, white egret looking for fish in the water by the canal, and the anhinga was drying its wings, as usual. A turtle was sunning on a log and also, one was on the bags by the weir. All of God's creatures were enjoying the fall weather! God is good!
From the little book God's Promises:
God's love is with a man when...
He Brings His Problems to God
If you would prepare your heart,
and stretch out your hands toward Him;
If iniquity were in your hand, and you put it far away,
And would not let wickedness dwell in your tents;
Then surely you could lift up your face
without spot;
Yes, you could be steadfast, and not fear;
because you would forget your misery,
And remember it as waters that have passed away,
And your life would be brighter than noonday.
Though you were dark, you would be like the morning.
And you would be secure, because there is hope;
Yes, you would dig around you, and take your rest in safety.
Job 11:13-18
But Jesus looked at them and said to them,
"With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."
Matthew 19:16
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love,
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
It was a nice day for a visit to the Park yesterday...cool air and bright, warm sunshine. My nose is much better, but I will still have to be careful in the sun, because it is very tender. I saw a beautiful, white egret looking for fish in the water by the canal, and the anhinga was drying its wings, as usual. A turtle was sunning on a log and also, one was on the bags by the weir. All of God's creatures were enjoying the fall weather! God is good!
From the little book God's Promises:
God's love is with a man when...
He Brings His Problems to God
If you would prepare your heart,
and stretch out your hands toward Him;
If iniquity were in your hand, and you put it far away,
And would not let wickedness dwell in your tents;
Then surely you could lift up your face
without spot;
Yes, you could be steadfast, and not fear;
because you would forget your misery,
And remember it as waters that have passed away,
And your life would be brighter than noonday.
Though you were dark, you would be like the morning.
And you would be secure, because there is hope;
Yes, you would dig around you, and take your rest in safety.
Job 11:13-18
But Jesus looked at them and said to them,
"With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."
Matthew 19:16
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love,
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)