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! So, today is the day we say farewell to September and really look forward to "October's Bright Blue "weather, (from a poem I sorta remember from my school days). We had cloudy weather yesterday, which suits me because I have to be cautious of the sun, anyway. Then it turned into rain and we had a nice shower in the evening. It was most welcome, because the huge staghorn hanging from our big oak tree needed water. I know it is mostly an air plant, but it looks droopy sometimes when it is dry.
While I was sweeping acorns off the front porch, my Cambodian neighbor from up the street, Mr. Soon, he says just call him "Soon", stopped on his way to the school, to chat a bit. He is hard for me to understand because of his accent, but he is a little dismayed that I am living alone, now. His household consists of I don't know how many adults and four or five little elementary grandkids. He had a heart attack about a year ago and now cannot work any more. He used to bring me flowers on Friday nights on his way home from work driving a flower truck. He walks to school twice a day to take the grandkids and see that they get home safely, and takes a long walk in the evening for his health. He is a very nice man.
I saw two anhingas in the park drying wings, and one large snapping turtle right below the anhinga on the weir. Lots of dog walkers and people enjoying the slightly cooler air. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
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 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...
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
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
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! The prediction is for cooler weather and less humidity this weekend, which really sounds good to me, however this morning when I stepped outside, the air was definitely cooler and it would have been nice to take a walk. Hopefully, I can do that later. We had some rain yesterday after I got through with my errands. IT wasn't much, but we can use more, because we really haven't had much this month.
It looks like the ospreys are having mating time again. I saw the old, ragged nest atop a light pole in the Gateway parking lot, was being built up again and an osprey was sitting on it while I went into Publix and was still there when I came out, It may be the one I frequently see on the line across Turner's creek by the Burger King.
Also, there is a nest atop a light pole at Sawgrass school, and that one is active again. So soon there will be little ospreys flying around again. I was fascinated as I drove to the park yesterday evening, to see a forming waterspout from a very dark and threatening cloud. I was able to watch it get a little bigger and then all at once, it disappeared. Wouldn't have done me any good to have a camera, since I was driving, but I was wishing for a picture of it.
Not many people were at the park, because it was threatening rain, but an anhinga was on the weir with wings totally outstretched, and also one was on the log right by the bridge, posing the same way. No sun, but I guess the wind was drying the feathers. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How can I be joyful in hard times?
Habakkuk 3:17,18 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.
Philippians 4:4,12 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, and 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
It looks like the ospreys are having mating time again. I saw the old, ragged nest atop a light pole in the Gateway parking lot, was being built up again and an osprey was sitting on it while I went into Publix and was still there when I came out, It may be the one I frequently see on the line across Turner's creek by the Burger King.
Also, there is a nest atop a light pole at Sawgrass school, and that one is active again. So soon there will be little ospreys flying around again. I was fascinated as I drove to the park yesterday evening, to see a forming waterspout from a very dark and threatening cloud. I was able to watch it get a little bigger and then all at once, it disappeared. Wouldn't have done me any good to have a camera, since I was driving, but I was wishing for a picture of it.
Not many people were at the park, because it was threatening rain, but an anhinga was on the weir with wings totally outstretched, and also one was on the log right by the bridge, posing the same way. No sun, but I guess the wind was drying the feathers. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How can I be joyful in hard times?
Habakkuk 3:17,18 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.
Philippians 4:4,12 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, and 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
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
The Message
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 thought I heard thunder just now, but it must be the construction, (destruction) taking place at Lynch School near here. I don't understand how the students can learn with all the noise from the trucks and breaking of the concrete. Tough on teachers, too.
Well, anyway, I noticed this morning, that my huge Bird of Paradise plant in the back is just full of brilliant blooms. The bush is so thick that the blooms are almost hidden in all the long leaves. It really should be out front where it is more visible, but we never thought of that when we planted it many years ago. There is also another golden tree blooming on the way in to the park. Two different trees, both with gorgeous yellow blossoms. Messy, like the jacaranda, but so pretty! All was quiet at the Park yesterday. Just a few walkers and the usual service trucks from different companies taking a break. The squirrels and anhingas are what are most visible all the time, and, of course, the turtles. There must be hundreds of them!
We had an interesting Faith Group meeting last night. It's always good to get together with friends, new and old. God is good!
From The Message:
The Way of Love 1 Corinthians 13
If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstacy but don't love, I'm nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate.
If I speak God's Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and If I have faith that says to a mountain, "Jump," and it jumps, but I don't love, I'm nothing.
If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don't love, I've gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love.
Love never gives up.
Love cares more for others than for self.
Love doesn't strut,
Doesn't have a swelled head,
Doesn't force itself on others.
Isn't always "me first".
Doesn't always fly off the handle, Doesn't keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn't revel when others grovel,
takes pleasure in the flowering of truth.
Puts up with anything/
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best.
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Well, anyway, I noticed this morning, that my huge Bird of Paradise plant in the back is just full of brilliant blooms. The bush is so thick that the blooms are almost hidden in all the long leaves. It really should be out front where it is more visible, but we never thought of that when we planted it many years ago. There is also another golden tree blooming on the way in to the park. Two different trees, both with gorgeous yellow blossoms. Messy, like the jacaranda, but so pretty! All was quiet at the Park yesterday. Just a few walkers and the usual service trucks from different companies taking a break. The squirrels and anhingas are what are most visible all the time, and, of course, the turtles. There must be hundreds of them!
We had an interesting Faith Group meeting last night. It's always good to get together with friends, new and old. God is good!
From The Message:
The Way of Love 1 Corinthians 13
If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstacy but don't love, I'm nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate.
If I speak God's Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and If I have faith that says to a mountain, "Jump," and it jumps, but I don't love, I'm nothing.
If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don't love, I've gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love.
Love never gives up.
Love cares more for others than for self.
Love doesn't strut,
Doesn't have a swelled head,
Doesn't force itself on others.
Isn't always "me first".
Doesn't always fly off the handle, Doesn't keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn't revel when others grovel,
takes pleasure in the flowering of truth.
Puts up with anything/
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best.
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, September 27, 2010
What to do About Evil
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, I was refreshed by the cool wind blowing and walked a bit, admiring the pink streaked clouds as the sun came up. I saw two planes in the wild blue yonder, and birds were flitting about on their morning search for the early worm. Just a beautiful day!
When I went to the park yesterday, I saw an anhinga on the weir with its wings fully extended drying out and the day before, one was there with wings folded and just sitting. They are very ungainly looking because of their bent legs, whenever they try to walk.But they are very sleek in the water. Since they swim and fly, they are versatile.
Since I have a lot of errands to run this morning, I need to get started, but things will get done in due time. I had to pause and reflect after yesterday's church service how many friends I have who genuinely care about me. I have a heart full of thankfulness for the friends and family and their love. God is good!
What to do about Evil..
From the devotional Knowing God.
Take your stand with God's loyal community and live, or chase after phantoms of evil and die.
Proverbs 11:19 MSG
The better you get to know God, the more you'll understand how God wants you to respond to evil. and make no mistake, this world is inhabited by quite a few people who are very determined to do evil things. The devil and his human helpers are working 24/7 to cause pain and heartbreak in every corner of the globe including your corner. So you'd better beware. Your job, if you choose to accept it, is to recognize and fight it. The moment that you decide to fight evil whenever you see it, you can no longer be a lukewarm, halfhearted Christian. And when you are no longer a lukewarm Christian, God rejoices while the Devil despairs.
When will you choose to get serious about fighting the evils of our world? Before you answer that question, consider this in the battle of good versus evil, the devil never takes a day off...and neither should you.
God loves you, and He yearns for you to turn away from the path of evil. You need His forgiveness, and you need Him to come into your life and remake you from within,
--Billy Graham
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 saw an anhinga on the weir with its wings fully extended drying out and the day before, one was there with wings folded and just sitting. They are very ungainly looking because of their bent legs, whenever they try to walk.But they are very sleek in the water. Since they swim and fly, they are versatile.
Since I have a lot of errands to run this morning, I need to get started, but things will get done in due time. I had to pause and reflect after yesterday's church service how many friends I have who genuinely care about me. I have a heart full of thankfulness for the friends and family and their love. God is good!
What to do about Evil..
From the devotional Knowing God.
Take your stand with God's loyal community and live, or chase after phantoms of evil and die.
Proverbs 11:19 MSG
The better you get to know God, the more you'll understand how God wants you to respond to evil. and make no mistake, this world is inhabited by quite a few people who are very determined to do evil things. The devil and his human helpers are working 24/7 to cause pain and heartbreak in every corner of the globe including your corner. So you'd better beware. Your job, if you choose to accept it, is to recognize and fight it. The moment that you decide to fight evil whenever you see it, you can no longer be a lukewarm, halfhearted Christian. And when you are no longer a lukewarm Christian, God rejoices while the Devil despairs.
When will you choose to get serious about fighting the evils of our world? Before you answer that question, consider this in the battle of good versus evil, the devil never takes a day off...and neither should you.
God loves you, and He yearns for you to turn away from the path of evil. You need His forgiveness, and you need Him to come into your life and remake you from within,
--Billy Graham
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, September 24, 2010
Psoaring thru Psalm 23
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! Just when I think it's time for fall (and it is according to the calendar), the weather is very warm when I step outside. And there is another tropical storm in the Caribbean named "Matthew," Well, we may get some rain from this one.
The wind came up all at once last night, and since my yard was mowed and the porch blown off, the wind took care of that. Twigs and leaves are all over it once again. Oh, well, it looked good for awhile, anyway. The Beauty berry bush is so big,now, and has grown so much this summer, with absolutely no care, but still has not had one purple berry on it. Very strange. But it was a volunteer in the first place, so I can't complain. The mockers certainly have enough berries without the bush, because the podacarpus is still full of berries and they fly in and out of it all day.
I watched a yellow butterfly chase a mockingbird yesterday. At least, that's what it looked like. The butterfly was flitting erratically and the bird was trying to fly around it. Of course, the bird won that flight!
I ran several errands yesterday after the lawn was mowed, including returning books to the library and checking out more and was tired at the end of the day. But some things never change, including the park, It just keeps growing and the canal keeps on flowing. Ibis and anhinga were present as usual and all was peaceful. God is good!
From The Message;
God, my shepherd!
I don't need a thing.
You have bedded me down in lush meadows,
you find me quiet pools to drink from.
True to your word,
you let me catch my breath
and send me in the right direction.
Even when the way goes through Death Valley.
I'm not afraid when you walk at my side.
Your trusty shepherd's crook
Makes me feel secure.
You serve me a six course dinner
right in front of my enemies.
You revive my drooping head;
my cup brims with blessing.
Your beauty and love chase after me
every day of my life.
I'm back home in the house of God
for the rest of my life.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
P.S. I hope all the punctuation is correct, because this is National Punctuation Day :o).
The wind came up all at once last night, and since my yard was mowed and the porch blown off, the wind took care of that. Twigs and leaves are all over it once again. Oh, well, it looked good for awhile, anyway. The Beauty berry bush is so big,now, and has grown so much this summer, with absolutely no care, but still has not had one purple berry on it. Very strange. But it was a volunteer in the first place, so I can't complain. The mockers certainly have enough berries without the bush, because the podacarpus is still full of berries and they fly in and out of it all day.
I watched a yellow butterfly chase a mockingbird yesterday. At least, that's what it looked like. The butterfly was flitting erratically and the bird was trying to fly around it. Of course, the bird won that flight!
I ran several errands yesterday after the lawn was mowed, including returning books to the library and checking out more and was tired at the end of the day. But some things never change, including the park, It just keeps growing and the canal keeps on flowing. Ibis and anhinga were present as usual and all was peaceful. God is good!
From The Message;
God, my shepherd!
I don't need a thing.
You have bedded me down in lush meadows,
you find me quiet pools to drink from.
True to your word,
you let me catch my breath
and send me in the right direction.
Even when the way goes through Death Valley.
I'm not afraid when you walk at my side.
Your trusty shepherd's crook
Makes me feel secure.
You serve me a six course dinner
right in front of my enemies.
You revive my drooping head;
my cup brims with blessing.
Your beauty and love chase after me
every day of my life.
I'm back home in the house of God
for the rest of my life.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
P.S. I hope all the punctuation is correct, because this is National Punctuation Day :o).
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Don't Fall Prey to Envy
Good morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will be glad and rejoice in it! I did not get to see the full moon and Jupiter last night, because we had rain and overcast skies, but I did get to see the full moon peeking through the lacy clouds at about nine o'clock when I stepped outside. I thought I would not be able to sleep, but I was wrong. I slept soundly, even with the full moon.
Yesterday, I looked out the front window, and saw three ibis standing as still as statues in the middle of the street. They were there for about five minutes, and then one of them slowly lifted up one leg, so he was standing on only one for awhile, Then they slowly walked over to my yard and started pecking like they usually do. I should have had a camera, but I was just fascinated watching them.
I can always tell when the weather has been dry for awhile, because the birds and squirrels come to the porch wall and drink out of the bowl I have for them. The birds like to get in and take a bath, leaving very little water for anyone else. They are fun to watch.
Nothing much going on at the park, but I saw three turtles resting on a log that was half in the water. They were big, middlesized and little. And I saw another one airing on the bank of the weir, also an anhinga with its wings folded. God is good!
From Knowing God devotional:
We can't afford to waste a minute, must not squander these precious daylight hours in frivolity and indulgence, in sleeping around and dissipation, in bickering and grabbing everything in sight. Get out of bed and get dressed!
Don't loiter and linger, waiting until the very last minute. Dress yourselves in Christ, and be up and about! Romans 13:13-14 MSG
Because we are imperfect, we are sometimes envious of others. But to be envious is to be foolish. So we must guard ourselves against the natural tendency to feel resentment and jealousy when other people experience good fortune. Rather than succumbing to feelings of envy, we should focus on the marvelous things that God has done for us (and we should refrain from preoccupying ourselves with the blessings that God has chosen to give others).
St John Chrysotom offered these words of caution:" As a moth gnaws a garment, so does envy consume a man." So here's a proven formula for a happier, heathier life. Count your own blessings and let your neighbors count theirs. It's the best way to live.
When you worry about what you don't have, you won't be able to enjoy what you do have.
-Chuck Swindoll
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday, I looked out the front window, and saw three ibis standing as still as statues in the middle of the street. They were there for about five minutes, and then one of them slowly lifted up one leg, so he was standing on only one for awhile, Then they slowly walked over to my yard and started pecking like they usually do. I should have had a camera, but I was just fascinated watching them.
I can always tell when the weather has been dry for awhile, because the birds and squirrels come to the porch wall and drink out of the bowl I have for them. The birds like to get in and take a bath, leaving very little water for anyone else. They are fun to watch.
Nothing much going on at the park, but I saw three turtles resting on a log that was half in the water. They were big, middlesized and little. And I saw another one airing on the bank of the weir, also an anhinga with its wings folded. God is good!
From Knowing God devotional:
We can't afford to waste a minute, must not squander these precious daylight hours in frivolity and indulgence, in sleeping around and dissipation, in bickering and grabbing everything in sight. Get out of bed and get dressed!
Don't loiter and linger, waiting until the very last minute. Dress yourselves in Christ, and be up and about! Romans 13:13-14 MSG
Because we are imperfect, we are sometimes envious of others. But to be envious is to be foolish. So we must guard ourselves against the natural tendency to feel resentment and jealousy when other people experience good fortune. Rather than succumbing to feelings of envy, we should focus on the marvelous things that God has done for us (and we should refrain from preoccupying ourselves with the blessings that God has chosen to give others).
St John Chrysotom offered these words of caution:" As a moth gnaws a garment, so does envy consume a man." So here's a proven formula for a happier, heathier life. Count your own blessings and let your neighbors count theirs. It's the best way to live.
When you worry about what you don't have, you won't be able to enjoy what you do have.
-Chuck Swindoll
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
The Power of 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! There is a definite touch of fall in the air these days, The morning temp. is down in the seventies although it's expected to zoom to the nineties this afternoon, but the cool morning air feel wonderful. Also the acorns are falling and that is not so wonderful. Good for the squirrels, bad for stepping on, on the porch and sidewalk. A small price to pay for cooler weather.
Yesterday, I had a long walk in Walmart. I don't go out there very often these days, but when I really want to save money, that is definitely the place to go. Surprisingly, it was not crowded, and except for a small child who had an ear-piercing scream and seemed to be screaming for the sheer joy of it, it was pleasant shopping. Not a pleasure like Publix, but pleasant. I got my Dan-Active yogurt there for 3.83 and it is 4.89 at Publix. So that's a savings!
Then I went to the park, and enjoyed the peace and quiet there, after the screaming. Nothing but the trees and moss swaying in the breeze and squirrels scampering, and the flock of ibis gathered on the hills, pecking away. God is good!
From the devotional book Knowing God:
Patience and encouragement come from God. And I pray that God will help you all agree with each other the way Christ Jesus wants. Romans 15:5 NCV
Here's a question only you can answer. During a typical day, how many opportunities will you have to encourage other human beings? Unless you're living on a deserted island, the answer is "a lot!" and here's a follow-up question; How often do you take advantage of those opportunities? Hopefully, the answer is "more often than not."
Romans 14:19 advises us to "Pursue what promotes peace and what builds up one another" (HCSB) And whenever we do, God smiles.
Whether you realize it or not, you're surrounded by people who need an encouraging word, a helping hand, or a pat on the back. And every time you encourage one of these folks, you'll be doing God's will by obeying God's word. So, without further ado, let the encouragement begin.
I can usually sense that a leading is from the Holy Spirit when it calls me to humble myself, to serve somebody, to encourage somebody or to give something away. Very rarely will the evil one lead us to do those kind of things
-Bill Hybels
Todays Prayer-
Lord, make us mindful of our words. This world can be a difficult place and many of Your children are discouraged and afraid.
Make each member of our family a powerful source of encouragement to those in need, and let our words and deeds be worthy of Your Son, the One who gives us courage and strength, this day and for all eternity.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday, I had a long walk in Walmart. I don't go out there very often these days, but when I really want to save money, that is definitely the place to go. Surprisingly, it was not crowded, and except for a small child who had an ear-piercing scream and seemed to be screaming for the sheer joy of it, it was pleasant shopping. Not a pleasure like Publix, but pleasant. I got my Dan-Active yogurt there for 3.83 and it is 4.89 at Publix. So that's a savings!
Then I went to the park, and enjoyed the peace and quiet there, after the screaming. Nothing but the trees and moss swaying in the breeze and squirrels scampering, and the flock of ibis gathered on the hills, pecking away. God is good!
From the devotional book Knowing God:
Patience and encouragement come from God. And I pray that God will help you all agree with each other the way Christ Jesus wants. Romans 15:5 NCV
Here's a question only you can answer. During a typical day, how many opportunities will you have to encourage other human beings? Unless you're living on a deserted island, the answer is "a lot!" and here's a follow-up question; How often do you take advantage of those opportunities? Hopefully, the answer is "more often than not."
Romans 14:19 advises us to "Pursue what promotes peace and what builds up one another" (HCSB) And whenever we do, God smiles.
Whether you realize it or not, you're surrounded by people who need an encouraging word, a helping hand, or a pat on the back. And every time you encourage one of these folks, you'll be doing God's will by obeying God's word. So, without further ado, let the encouragement begin.
I can usually sense that a leading is from the Holy Spirit when it calls me to humble myself, to serve somebody, to encourage somebody or to give something away. Very rarely will the evil one lead us to do those kind of things
-Bill Hybels
Todays Prayer-
Lord, make us mindful of our words. This world can be a difficult place and many of Your children are discouraged and afraid.
Make each member of our family a powerful source of encouragement to those in need, and let our words and deeds be worthy of Your Son, the One who gives us courage and strength, this day and for all eternity.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Psoaring thru Psalm138
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 morning, with a light breeze blowing and cooler air. Still hot in the daytime, though and I am still wearing # 49 sunblock!
I hope some of you saw the beautiful moon and star last night. When I came out of our Faith Group meeting, there it was almost full shining in the clear sky. Just amazing! It will be full on Thursday, so I will try to remember to go out and look at it.
Yesterday, I saw the old gopher tortoise in the park moving at warp speed up the slight hill to his home, munching on grass along the way. He has been around a long time. Two snapping turtles were sunning on the bank of the weir and an egret was posed next to the shrubbery, peering down into the lake. If I were an artist, it would be a typical Florida scene to paint. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
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 all the honor of your name.
When I pray you answer me;
you encourage me by giving me the strength I need.
Every king in all the earth will give you
thanks, O Lord,
for all of them will hear your words.
Yes, they will sing about the Lord's ways, for the glory
of the Lord is very great.
Though the Lord is great he cares for the humble;
but he keeps his distance from the proud.
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,
Don't abandon me, for you made me.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I hope some of you saw the beautiful moon and star last night. When I came out of our Faith Group meeting, there it was almost full shining in the clear sky. Just amazing! It will be full on Thursday, so I will try to remember to go out and look at it.
Yesterday, I saw the old gopher tortoise in the park moving at warp speed up the slight hill to his home, munching on grass along the way. He has been around a long time. Two snapping turtles were sunning on the bank of the weir and an egret was posed next to the shrubbery, peering down into the lake. If I were an artist, it would be a typical Florida scene to paint. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
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 all the honor of your name.
When I pray you answer me;
you encourage me by giving me the strength I need.
Every king in all the earth will give you
thanks, O Lord,
for all of them will hear your words.
Yes, they will sing about the Lord's ways, for the glory
of the Lord is very great.
Though the Lord is great he cares for the humble;
but he keeps his distance from the proud.
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,
Don't abandon me, for you made me.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, September 20, 2010
Learn to trust God
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 definitely cooler this morning! I was tempted to go for a walk before breakfast or praying, but knew that I would be much later getting things done that need to be done, so...maybe later!
There are such strange geckos, or lizards, critters, anyway, hanging around my front door. A tiny flat one with a striped tail was plastered against the wall right beside the door one morning, and I also found a dried one on my floor. IT had been in the house too long. They are always running in and out of the mailbox, so getting the mail is always an adventure!
I went to the park yesterday After a wonderful worship service yesterday. Several ibises were gathered in a tree, which is unusual for them, but they were just looking down into the canal, resting their beaks I guess. The nice wind was blowing and several people were walking with their camera and binoculars ready. God is good!
From the Knowing God devotional:
Lord, I give myself to you; my God, I trust you. Psalm 25:1-2 NCV
If you want to know God, then you must learn to trust God. Yet sometimes, when you feel overwhelmed by fears and doubts, you'll find that trusting God is difficult. So here's a question for you to ponder. Are you willing to trust God completely or are you still sitting squarely on the spiritual fence? The answer to this question will determine the tone, the quality and the direction of your life.
Trusting God means trusting Him with every aspect of your life. You must trust Him with your relationships, your dreams, your finances, and your career. You must follow His commandments, and you must pray for His g
When you trust your Heavenly Father without reservation, you can be sure that, in His own fashion and in His own time, God will reveal Himself to you in ways that you could never have imagined. So trust Him. And then prepare yourself for the abundance and the joy that will most certainly be yours when you do.
"As God's children, we are the recipients of lavish love-a love that motivates us to keep trusting even when we have no idea what God is doing."
-Beth Moore
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, with thanksgiving, joy and love!!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
There are such strange geckos, or lizards, critters, anyway, hanging around my front door. A tiny flat one with a striped tail was plastered against the wall right beside the door one morning, and I also found a dried one on my floor. IT had been in the house too long. They are always running in and out of the mailbox, so getting the mail is always an adventure!
I went to the park yesterday After a wonderful worship service yesterday. Several ibises were gathered in a tree, which is unusual for them, but they were just looking down into the canal, resting their beaks I guess. The nice wind was blowing and several people were walking with their camera and binoculars ready. God is good!
From the Knowing God devotional:
Lord, I give myself to you; my God, I trust you. Psalm 25:1-2 NCV
If you want to know God, then you must learn to trust God. Yet sometimes, when you feel overwhelmed by fears and doubts, you'll find that trusting God is difficult. So here's a question for you to ponder. Are you willing to trust God completely or are you still sitting squarely on the spiritual fence? The answer to this question will determine the tone, the quality and the direction of your life.
Trusting God means trusting Him with every aspect of your life. You must trust Him with your relationships, your dreams, your finances, and your career. You must follow His commandments, and you must pray for His g
When you trust your Heavenly Father without reservation, you can be sure that, in His own fashion and in His own time, God will reveal Himself to you in ways that you could never have imagined. So trust Him. And then prepare yourself for the abundance and the joy that will most certainly be yours when you do.
"As God's children, we are the recipients of lavish love-a love that motivates us to keep trusting even when we have no idea what God is doing."
-Beth Moore
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, with thanksgiving, joy and love!!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, September 17, 2010
Worry Less
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! Once again , one of those beautiful, breezy, but not so cool days that make us appreciate living here. I saw contrails this morning early when I stepped out, which makes me think of people on the go or perhaps coming home that early.
My friend, Terry, called, since he is home from a six week vacation in MI, working on his brother's farm. Since Terry retired from the county as supervisor of Sawgrass Park, seems like he's working harder than ever. He's a great friend.
Yesterday, I saw a flock of almost 24 ibis pecking away in my yard, I just stood and watched them for a while because they are so intent on what they are doing, they seem to pay very little attention to anything around them. Then, all at once, they fluidly moved across the street, like a smooth, white blanket. Very Beautiful! I didn't see any ibis in the park, just a lot of squirrels, because a man was feeding them from his car. There was some work going on some place, because the trucks were in the park, but I couldn't see anything. But God is good!
From the devotional book Knowing God:
Do not worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need, always giving thanks.
Philippians 4:6 NCV
In the game of life, you win some, and you lose some. Live is a risky business; you live in an uncertain world, a world in which trouble may come calling at any moment. No wonder you may find yourself feeling a little panicky at times.
Do you sometimes spend more time worrying about a problem than you spend solving it? If so, here's a strategy for dealing with your worries. Take them to God. Take your troubles to Him, take your fears to Him...and leave them all there. God is the Rock that cannot be moved. When you build your life upon that Rock, you have absolutely no need to worry...not now, not ever.
Walk by faith!
Stop the plague of worry. Relax!
Learn to say," Lord, this is your battle."
Charles Swindoll.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
My friend, Terry, called, since he is home from a six week vacation in MI, working on his brother's farm. Since Terry retired from the county as supervisor of Sawgrass Park, seems like he's working harder than ever. He's a great friend.
Yesterday, I saw a flock of almost 24 ibis pecking away in my yard, I just stood and watched them for a while because they are so intent on what they are doing, they seem to pay very little attention to anything around them. Then, all at once, they fluidly moved across the street, like a smooth, white blanket. Very Beautiful! I didn't see any ibis in the park, just a lot of squirrels, because a man was feeding them from his car. There was some work going on some place, because the trucks were in the park, but I couldn't see anything. But God is good!
From the devotional book Knowing God:
Do not worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need, always giving thanks.
Philippians 4:6 NCV
In the game of life, you win some, and you lose some. Live is a risky business; you live in an uncertain world, a world in which trouble may come calling at any moment. No wonder you may find yourself feeling a little panicky at times.
Do you sometimes spend more time worrying about a problem than you spend solving it? If so, here's a strategy for dealing with your worries. Take them to God. Take your troubles to Him, take your fears to Him...and leave them all there. God is the Rock that cannot be moved. When you build your life upon that Rock, you have absolutely no need to worry...not now, not ever.
Walk by faith!
Stop the plague of worry. Relax!
Learn to say," Lord, this is your battle."
Charles Swindoll.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Get Beyond the Distractions
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! Lots of sunshine and breezes this morning, but not as cool as yesterday. Oh, well, October is on they way and we will soon have all the cool weather we can handle. The grass has slowed its growing, so I told the friend who cuts my grass, he could skip this week.
I was amazed to see how tall the weeds are across the canal at the park, They haven't been mowed all summer and it is really overgrown. Large gators used to like to lie in the sun on the bank, but the weeds would cut out the sun now, if they tried it. Some of the "regulars" that have been walking there for years, are still walking and enjoying their workouts, I talked to one lady yesterday who has been coming for about fifteen years. I need to go out and see where the gator nest is that two men asked me about. I could see a trail, but could not see a nest at the end of it and the nests are built up really high. Well, maybe this evening now that the Rays and Yankees are over.
God is good!
From Knowing God devotional:
If you decide for God, living a life of God-worship, it follows that you don't fuss about what's on the table at mealtimes or whether the clothes in your closet are in fashion. There is far more to your life than the food you put in your stomach, more to your outer appearance than the clothes you hang on your body.
Matthew 6:25 MSG
All of us must live through those days when the traffic jams, the computer crashes, and the dog makes a main course out of our favorite slippers. But, when we find ourselves distracted by the minor frustrations of life, we must catch ourselves, take a deep breath, and lift our thoughts upward.
Although we may, at times, struggle mightily to rise above the distractions of everyday living, we need never struggle alone. God is here-eternal and faithful, with infinite patience and love-and, if we reach out to him, He will restore our sense of perspective and give peace to our souls.
Among the enemies to devotion, none is so harmful as distractions. Whatever excites the curiosity, scatters the thoughts, disquiets the heart, absorbs the interests, or shifts our life focus from the kingdom of God within us to the world around us--that is a distraction, and the world is full of them.
---A. W. Tozer
Today's Prayer
Dear Lord, help me to face this day with a spirit of optimism and thanksgiving. And let me focus my thoughts on You and Your incomparable gifts. Amen
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love.
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I was amazed to see how tall the weeds are across the canal at the park, They haven't been mowed all summer and it is really overgrown. Large gators used to like to lie in the sun on the bank, but the weeds would cut out the sun now, if they tried it. Some of the "regulars" that have been walking there for years, are still walking and enjoying their workouts, I talked to one lady yesterday who has been coming for about fifteen years. I need to go out and see where the gator nest is that two men asked me about. I could see a trail, but could not see a nest at the end of it and the nests are built up really high. Well, maybe this evening now that the Rays and Yankees are over.
God is good!
From Knowing God devotional:
If you decide for God, living a life of God-worship, it follows that you don't fuss about what's on the table at mealtimes or whether the clothes in your closet are in fashion. There is far more to your life than the food you put in your stomach, more to your outer appearance than the clothes you hang on your body.
Matthew 6:25 MSG
All of us must live through those days when the traffic jams, the computer crashes, and the dog makes a main course out of our favorite slippers. But, when we find ourselves distracted by the minor frustrations of life, we must catch ourselves, take a deep breath, and lift our thoughts upward.
Although we may, at times, struggle mightily to rise above the distractions of everyday living, we need never struggle alone. God is here-eternal and faithful, with infinite patience and love-and, if we reach out to him, He will restore our sense of perspective and give peace to our souls.
Among the enemies to devotion, none is so harmful as distractions. Whatever excites the curiosity, scatters the thoughts, disquiets the heart, absorbs the interests, or shifts our life focus from the kingdom of God within us to the world around us--that is a distraction, and the world is full of them.
---A. W. Tozer
Today's Prayer
Dear Lord, help me to face this day with a spirit of optimism and thanksgiving. And let me focus my thoughts on You and Your incomparable gifts. Amen
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love.
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
The advantages of companionship
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 and the breeze is blowing drier air, (yay) so I couldn't resist and had to go for a walk in the park. I walked out to the first shelter, unknowing that it was supposed to be closed off for work further along the way. Someone had taken the sign down and hung it on the other side, so, anyway, I got to see gator tracks.
A couple guys from out of town asked me where the nest was that they heard about, but all I saw was a path that looked like it led to a nest, but I couldn't see a nest because the weeds are so high. They also asked me what the gray stuff was hanging from the trees. Well, I guess to someone new to Florida they were ignorant of what hangs from trees all over the south.
But I enjoyed the walk, and especially, the breeze! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ecclesiastes 4:9
Two people can accomplish more than twice as much as one; they get a better return for their labor. IF one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But people who are alone when they fall are in real trouble. And on a cold night, two under the same blanket can gain warmth from each other. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.
People who work hard sleep well, whether they eat little or much, but the rich are always worrying and seldom get a good night's sleep.
I always thank God for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
A couple guys from out of town asked me where the nest was that they heard about, but all I saw was a path that looked like it led to a nest, but I couldn't see a nest because the weeds are so high. They also asked me what the gray stuff was hanging from the trees. Well, I guess to someone new to Florida they were ignorant of what hangs from trees all over the south.
But I enjoyed the walk, and especially, the breeze! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ecclesiastes 4:9
Two people can accomplish more than twice as much as one; they get a better return for their labor. IF one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But people who are alone when they fall are in real trouble. And on a cold night, two under the same blanket can gain warmth from each other. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.
People who work hard sleep well, whether they eat little or much, but the rich are always worrying and seldom get a good night's sleep.
I always thank God for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
2 Chronicles 15:2
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! After a few sprinkles of rain last night, it has turned into a beautiful day...still warm, Okay, hot, but clear skies so far. I really enjoy looking at the billowing clouds during the hot afternoons. They look so white against the pure blue of the sky. When I was a teenager we used to lie on the grass and look for different faces and shapes in the clouds. Of course, they didn't last long, because the wind was always changing the shapes. Ah, those were the days!
The park seldom changes, either. Always peaceful and fairly quiet except for the roar of the interstate close by, but still peaceful. The water looked still yesterday, but always has a current. Lots of lilies still floating, because the canal does not get cleaned like it used to, but the fish and anhingas don't seem to mind. God is good!
The Lord is with you when you are with Him.
If you seek HIm, He will be found by you. 2 Chronicles 15:2 HCSB
Do you ever wonder if God is really "right here, right now?" Do you wonder if God hears your prayers, if He understands your feelings, or if He really knows your heart? If so, you're not alone: lots of very faithful Christians have experienced periods of doubt. In fact, some of the biggest heroes in the Bible had plenty of doubts--and so, perhaps will you. But when you have doubts, remember this: God isn't on a coffee break,and He hasn't moved out of town. He's right here, right now, listening to your thoughts and prayers, watching over your every move.
If you'd like to get to know God a little bit better, He's always available--always ready to listen to your prayers, and always ready to speak to your heart. Are you ready to talk to Him? If so, congratulations. If not, what are you waiting for?
"God's presence is with you, but you have to make a choice to believe--and I mean really believe --that this is true. This conscious decision is yours alone.
-Bill Hybels
From the devotional book, Knowing God.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
amaryllis
The park seldom changes, either. Always peaceful and fairly quiet except for the roar of the interstate close by, but still peaceful. The water looked still yesterday, but always has a current. Lots of lilies still floating, because the canal does not get cleaned like it used to, but the fish and anhingas don't seem to mind. God is good!
The Lord is with you when you are with Him.
If you seek HIm, He will be found by you. 2 Chronicles 15:2 HCSB
Do you ever wonder if God is really "right here, right now?" Do you wonder if God hears your prayers, if He understands your feelings, or if He really knows your heart? If so, you're not alone: lots of very faithful Christians have experienced periods of doubt. In fact, some of the biggest heroes in the Bible had plenty of doubts--and so, perhaps will you. But when you have doubts, remember this: God isn't on a coffee break,and He hasn't moved out of town. He's right here, right now, listening to your thoughts and prayers, watching over your every move.
If you'd like to get to know God a little bit better, He's always available--always ready to listen to your prayers, and always ready to speak to your heart. Are you ready to talk to Him? If so, congratulations. If not, what are you waiting for?
"God's presence is with you, but you have to make a choice to believe--and I mean really believe --that this is true. This conscious decision is yours alone.
-Bill Hybels
From the devotional book, Knowing God.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
amaryllis
Monday, September 13, 2010
How can I know God hears my prayers?
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 and few clouds are in the sky this morning, but that is the way Sunday started out, and then in the afternoon, later, we had about a thirty minute downpour! After that the sun came out again and it was very humid.
Yesterday was the first day of our new church schedule and picnic. I thought it would be too hot to stay for me, but I did stay and sat with the Massey's and enjoyed a simple meal. It took a lot of volunteers to set up the colorful tables and umbrellas in the parking lot and prepare the boxed lunches! We are blessed to have those volunteers.
I went to the park before it rained and saw butterflies flitting about, but not many people out. An anhinga had his wings spread out drying on a dead stump and there is a small maple tree that was newly planted earlier in the spring and now it is nearly all a pretty red. I am seriously considering flying to TN next month for a week, so I can see some color in the mountains, which should be pretty by then. I will get to see Daryl and maybe Matthew when he is out of school. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 145:18 The Lord is close to all who call on him,yes, to all who call on HIm sincerely.
The Lord invites us to make prayer our first response rather than our last resort. He always listens to those who are honest with him.
1 John 14:15 We can be confident that he will listen to us whenever we ask him for anything in line with his will. And if we know he is listening when we make our requests, we can be sure that he will give what we ask for.
While we may not know God's specific will for every situation, we do know that his will is to empower our obedience, to overcome evil with good, and to equip us to be his witnesses. We can pray confidently for his power and guidance, knowing that we are asking for the very things he most longs to give.
Philippians 4:6,7 Don't worry about anything, instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all e has done. If you do this, you will experience God's peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
There's no limit on prayer Big requests, small requests, and all sizes in between are weicomed by God. If something bothers us, it should be brought to God.
I always thank God for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
The sun is shining and few clouds are in the sky this morning, but that is the way Sunday started out, and then in the afternoon, later, we had about a thirty minute downpour! After that the sun came out again and it was very humid.
Yesterday was the first day of our new church schedule and picnic. I thought it would be too hot to stay for me, but I did stay and sat with the Massey's and enjoyed a simple meal. It took a lot of volunteers to set up the colorful tables and umbrellas in the parking lot and prepare the boxed lunches! We are blessed to have those volunteers.
I went to the park before it rained and saw butterflies flitting about, but not many people out. An anhinga had his wings spread out drying on a dead stump and there is a small maple tree that was newly planted earlier in the spring and now it is nearly all a pretty red. I am seriously considering flying to TN next month for a week, so I can see some color in the mountains, which should be pretty by then. I will get to see Daryl and maybe Matthew when he is out of school. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 145:18 The Lord is close to all who call on him,yes, to all who call on HIm sincerely.
The Lord invites us to make prayer our first response rather than our last resort. He always listens to those who are honest with him.
1 John 14:15 We can be confident that he will listen to us whenever we ask him for anything in line with his will. And if we know he is listening when we make our requests, we can be sure that he will give what we ask for.
While we may not know God's specific will for every situation, we do know that his will is to empower our obedience, to overcome evil with good, and to equip us to be his witnesses. We can pray confidently for his power and guidance, knowing that we are asking for the very things he most longs to give.
Philippians 4:6,7 Don't worry about anything, instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all e has done. If you do this, you will experience God's peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
There's no limit on prayer Big requests, small requests, and all sizes in between are weicomed by God. If something bothers us, it should be brought to God.
I always thank God for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, September 10, 2010
A 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! Well, our evening rainstorm turned out to be just a few sprinkles and never did get started into a full-fledged shower, but that's okay because our gutters are still running full of water.
I watched a squirrel in the yard with his mouth full of something, waiting for me to put the car in the garage, and then he raced up the tree to either eat whatever or stash it away. I couldn't tell what it was. Sometimes they eat toadstools and other times they leave them alone. They seem to know which ones are not good.
I saw a large flock of ibis on a berm in the park yesterday, but they were at a distance, and they really looked pink. Maybe that was just wishful thinking on my part, because I haven't seen any roseate spoonbills lately. The weeds and grass is really overgrown there at the park, so it is past time for the mowing crew to get in and busy. The animals don't seem to mind, though, especially the gophers and the squirrels. The clouds were dark and threatening while I was there, so I did not linger long. But God is good!
From the NIV Ephesians 3:14-21:
For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom the whole family of believers in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Crist may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge-that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations for ever and ever!
Amen
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I watched a squirrel in the yard with his mouth full of something, waiting for me to put the car in the garage, and then he raced up the tree to either eat whatever or stash it away. I couldn't tell what it was. Sometimes they eat toadstools and other times they leave them alone. They seem to know which ones are not good.
I saw a large flock of ibis on a berm in the park yesterday, but they were at a distance, and they really looked pink. Maybe that was just wishful thinking on my part, because I haven't seen any roseate spoonbills lately. The weeds and grass is really overgrown there at the park, so it is past time for the mowing crew to get in and busy. The animals don't seem to mind, though, especially the gophers and the squirrels. The clouds were dark and threatening while I was there, so I did not linger long. But God is good!
From the NIV Ephesians 3:14-21:
For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom the whole family of believers in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Crist may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge-that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations for ever and ever!
Amen
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, September 9, 2010
The Good Soil
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 hope many of you got to see the sunrise this morning. It was all pink and blue and lovely. Seems like after a night rain, the sunrise is always beautiful! I did not see the sun set, though because of the clouds. Once again, we got our evening rain.
I didn't realize school was out at 1:30 on Wednesdays, until I decided to run some errands about that time and discovered lots of school buses and crossing guards getting to their jobs. I try not to go out when schools are letting out. Too much traffic on the roads!
I went to the Park, and saw a group having a picnic under the shelter, the usual Neighborly Center bus drivers, enjoying the breeze under the trees, and two anhingas airing out the wings. A great, blue heron was standing majestically in the canal fishing. God is good!
From Quiet Moments with God:
Ezekiel 17:8 It had been planted in good soil by abundant water so that it would produce branches, bear fruit and become a splendid vine.
An employee approached his employer and said, "I've had ten years of experience on this job, and I'm still making the same salary that I made when I started. It's time that I got a raise."
His boss retorted, "You haven't had ten years of experience. You've had one experience for ten years!"
Many of us feel that our lives could be described in the same way: one experience over and over again---or at best, boringly few experiences. When this is the pattern of our lives, we not only become depressed, but we also have no growth. Just as a garden needs fertilizer and nutrients to enrich its soil, we need the enrichment of activities and experiences to broaden our lives and stimulate our souls,
Joseph Campbell once said, "I don't believe people are looking for the meaning of live as much as they are looking for the experience of being alive."
How, then may we enrich our lives? It must be intentional. Don't think that someone else can do it for you. There are multitudes of ways to get started:
. Take up a sport that you always wanted to play.
. Take you spouse or a friend out to dinner and the entertainment of your choice.
. Plan a trip to see something or someone interesting.
. Volunteer to do work that will help the less fortunate.
. Visit a friend that you haven't seen for a while.
. Get involved in a place of worship that challenges you.
Participate! Learn! Sing! Read! Praise! Listen! Give! Talk with your God! In experiences such as these you will fine the source of all the excitement that you can handle.
Experience is the mother of truth, and by experience we learn wisdom.
William Shippen Jr.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs, Amaryllis
I didn't realize school was out at 1:30 on Wednesdays, until I decided to run some errands about that time and discovered lots of school buses and crossing guards getting to their jobs. I try not to go out when schools are letting out. Too much traffic on the roads!
I went to the Park, and saw a group having a picnic under the shelter, the usual Neighborly Center bus drivers, enjoying the breeze under the trees, and two anhingas airing out the wings. A great, blue heron was standing majestically in the canal fishing. God is good!
From Quiet Moments with God:
Ezekiel 17:8 It had been planted in good soil by abundant water so that it would produce branches, bear fruit and become a splendid vine.
An employee approached his employer and said, "I've had ten years of experience on this job, and I'm still making the same salary that I made when I started. It's time that I got a raise."
His boss retorted, "You haven't had ten years of experience. You've had one experience for ten years!"
Many of us feel that our lives could be described in the same way: one experience over and over again---or at best, boringly few experiences. When this is the pattern of our lives, we not only become depressed, but we also have no growth. Just as a garden needs fertilizer and nutrients to enrich its soil, we need the enrichment of activities and experiences to broaden our lives and stimulate our souls,
Joseph Campbell once said, "I don't believe people are looking for the meaning of live as much as they are looking for the experience of being alive."
How, then may we enrich our lives? It must be intentional. Don't think that someone else can do it for you. There are multitudes of ways to get started:
. Take up a sport that you always wanted to play.
. Take you spouse or a friend out to dinner and the entertainment of your choice.
. Plan a trip to see something or someone interesting.
. Volunteer to do work that will help the less fortunate.
. Visit a friend that you haven't seen for a while.
. Get involved in a place of worship that challenges you.
Participate! Learn! Sing! Read! Praise! Listen! Give! Talk with your God! In experiences such as these you will fine the source of all the excitement that you can handle.
Experience is the mother of truth, and by experience we learn wisdom.
William Shippen Jr.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs, Amaryllis
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Protection
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 know, I know it's later this morning. No excuses, except I got up at the same time and did my routine a little differently, so , at least, I got my praying in, and breakfast eaten.
Well, lots of thunder for a short while, but no rain last night, but we really did not need any for a while, as everything is still wet from the two previous rains. I went to the Park yesterday and all the weeds are flourishing, along with the grass. A turtle and three anhingas were sunning on the banks of the weir and ibises were busily pecking . as usual. Not many people there as school was still in session.
Later on, after my shopping trip, I saw a large osprey sitting on the line stretching across Turner's Creek, right across from Burger King. Maybe he wanted it his way! :o)
Also, I had a surprise visit from my sister-in-law who lives on the west side of town, so we don't see each other that often. We had a pleasant visit for a short while, until she had to go. It was good to see her. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Where can I find protection and safety?
Psalm 121:2-8 My help comes from the Lord who made the heavens and earth! He will not let you stumble and fall; the one who watches over you will not sleep. Indeed he who watches over Israel never tires and never sleeps. The Lord himself watches over you! The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade. The sun will not hurt you by day nor the moon by night. The Lord keeps you from all evil and preserves your life. The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.
Our protection is directly related to the character, competence, and capability of our protector. The Lord is unsurpassed in all areas. The Maker of heaven and earth is our personal protector. He never sleeps and never turns his attention from us. We walk securely because he guards our every step.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Well, lots of thunder for a short while, but no rain last night, but we really did not need any for a while, as everything is still wet from the two previous rains. I went to the Park yesterday and all the weeds are flourishing, along with the grass. A turtle and three anhingas were sunning on the banks of the weir and ibises were busily pecking . as usual. Not many people there as school was still in session.
Later on, after my shopping trip, I saw a large osprey sitting on the line stretching across Turner's Creek, right across from Burger King. Maybe he wanted it his way! :o)
Also, I had a surprise visit from my sister-in-law who lives on the west side of town, so we don't see each other that often. We had a pleasant visit for a short while, until she had to go. It was good to see her. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Where can I find protection and safety?
Psalm 121:2-8 My help comes from the Lord who made the heavens and earth! He will not let you stumble and fall; the one who watches over you will not sleep. Indeed he who watches over Israel never tires and never sleeps. The Lord himself watches over you! The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade. The sun will not hurt you by day nor the moon by night. The Lord keeps you from all evil and preserves your life. The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.
Our protection is directly related to the character, competence, and capability of our protector. The Lord is unsurpassed in all areas. The Maker of heaven and earth is our personal protector. He never sleeps and never turns his attention from us. We walk securely because he guards our every step.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Wisdom
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! Rain is still dripping off the roof from a downpour last night after dark and we also had rain the night before, so just as we think we are too dry, God sends rain. He always supplies our needs! The podacarpus hedge outside my window has diamond-like raindrops sparkling on the tops of the branches and it really looks like rain again this morning.
But the weather was good for Labor Day outings yesterday and the park was pretty full of people walking ...not so many having picnics for some reason, but just enjoying the outdoors. The weather is a little cooler now and really nice for walking or running. When I came out of church Sunday, I heard the noisy cicadas in the trees , almost deafening and yesterday I found one on the porch right outside the door. It was large and I nudged it with my foot, but it didn't move, so I thought it was dead. Guess not, because later on, it was not there any more. I don't know whether this is the seven year locust blight or just the year of the cicadas, but God knows and He is Good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What are the benefits of wisdom?
Proverbs 9:10 Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in understanding.
Psalm 110:10 Reverence for the Lord is the foundation of true wisdom. The rewards of wisdom come to all who obey him. Praise his name forever!
Wisdom is not simply knowing facts and figures. It is understanding our accountability to and our full dependence on our Creator. It's not what we know but who we know.
Proverbs 3:21-26 My child, don't lose sight of good planning and insight., Hang on to them, for they fill you with life and bring you honor and respect. They keep you safe on your way and keep your feet from stumbling. You can lie down without fear and enjoy pleasant dreams. You need not be afraid of disaster or the destruction that comes upon the wicked, for the Lord is your security. He will keep your feet from being caught in a trap.
Wisdom produces honor in our lives and protects us from trouble. Wise people know the difference between right and wrong and choose to do what is right. More than that, wisdom is choosing to apply God's truth and principles to our daily relationships and situations.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
But the weather was good for Labor Day outings yesterday and the park was pretty full of people walking ...not so many having picnics for some reason, but just enjoying the outdoors. The weather is a little cooler now and really nice for walking or running. When I came out of church Sunday, I heard the noisy cicadas in the trees , almost deafening and yesterday I found one on the porch right outside the door. It was large and I nudged it with my foot, but it didn't move, so I thought it was dead. Guess not, because later on, it was not there any more. I don't know whether this is the seven year locust blight or just the year of the cicadas, but God knows and He is Good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What are the benefits of wisdom?
Proverbs 9:10 Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in understanding.
Psalm 110:10 Reverence for the Lord is the foundation of true wisdom. The rewards of wisdom come to all who obey him. Praise his name forever!
Wisdom is not simply knowing facts and figures. It is understanding our accountability to and our full dependence on our Creator. It's not what we know but who we know.
Proverbs 3:21-26 My child, don't lose sight of good planning and insight., Hang on to them, for they fill you with life and bring you honor and respect. They keep you safe on your way and keep your feet from stumbling. You can lie down without fear and enjoy pleasant dreams. You need not be afraid of disaster or the destruction that comes upon the wicked, for the Lord is your security. He will keep your feet from being caught in a trap.
Wisdom produces honor in our lives and protects us from trouble. Wise people know the difference between right and wrong and choose to do what is right. More than that, wisdom is choosing to apply God's truth and principles to our daily relationships and situations.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, September 3, 2010
A Benediction
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 beautiful cool morning, and I really think leaves are beginning to fall. Oh, no! Fall can't be here already! I welcome the cooler weather but not the leaves!
I notices they are (leaves) are starting to fall in the park, also. The maples are usually the first to start, but it was still a sunshiny, bright very warm day. I took the van to Cartek yesterday and had it serviced and the cool waiting room was very welcome. It was so quiet I almost took a nap sitting up! :o) By the way, my nose is almost healed. It looks much better on the outside and , hopefully, will soon heal on the inside. Like my friend who knows; radiation is the burn that keeps on burning!. But God is good!
The benediction from Jude from The Message:
But you, dear friends, carefully build yourselves up in this most holy faith by praying in the Holy Spirit, staying right at the center of God's love, keeping your arms open and outstretched, ready for the mercy of our Master, Jesus Christ. This is the unending life, the real life!
Go easy on those who hesitate in the faith. Go after those who take the wrong way. Be tender with sinners, but not too soft on sin. The sin itself stinks to high heaven.
And now to him who can keep you on your feet, standing tall in his bright presence, fresh and celebrating-to our one God, our only Savior, through Jesus Christ, our Master, be glory, majesty, strength, and rule before all time, and now, and to the end of all time. Yes.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I notices they are (leaves) are starting to fall in the park, also. The maples are usually the first to start, but it was still a sunshiny, bright very warm day. I took the van to Cartek yesterday and had it serviced and the cool waiting room was very welcome. It was so quiet I almost took a nap sitting up! :o) By the way, my nose is almost healed. It looks much better on the outside and , hopefully, will soon heal on the inside. Like my friend who knows; radiation is the burn that keeps on burning!. But God is good!
The benediction from Jude from The Message:
But you, dear friends, carefully build yourselves up in this most holy faith by praying in the Holy Spirit, staying right at the center of God's love, keeping your arms open and outstretched, ready for the mercy of our Master, Jesus Christ. This is the unending life, the real life!
Go easy on those who hesitate in the faith. Go after those who take the wrong way. Be tender with sinners, but not too soft on sin. The sin itself stinks to high heaven.
And now to him who can keep you on your feet, standing tall in his bright presence, fresh and celebrating-to our one God, our only Savior, through Jesus Christ, our Master, be glory, majesty, strength, and rule before all time, and now, and to the end of all time. Yes.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Work
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 cool morning with temps in the seventies and drier air! What a change from the heat and humidity we have had all summer! The sun is shining and very few clouds in the sky so far. Thank you, Lord, for keeping hurricane Earl away from us!
Yesterday, our flat roof was coated and should be dry by now. The weather was hot and perfect for it. I went to the Park, and very few people were there, but the mowers had been there so no toadstools were left and the most used spaces were nice and trim. The ibises were enjoying the newly exposed grubs and whatever else they eat and I watched an anhinga zoom along the canal looking for a place to land. I wonder if they can spy fish from the air...Anyway, God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Excerpts from Paul's letter to the Colossians:
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 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...
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 an inheritance as your reward and the Master you are serving is Christ.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday, our flat roof was coated and should be dry by now. The weather was hot and perfect for it. I went to the Park, and very few people were there, but the mowers had been there so no toadstools were left and the most used spaces were nice and trim. The ibises were enjoying the newly exposed grubs and whatever else they eat and I watched an anhinga zoom along the canal looking for a place to land. I wonder if they can spy fish from the air...Anyway, God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Excerpts from Paul's letter to the Colossians:
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 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...
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 an inheritance as your reward and the Master you are serving is Christ.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
The Beatitudes
Good Morning Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! Happy September First! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! And what a beautiful start to the day! I hope some of you saw the sunrise with the beautiful pinks glowing against the blue in the sky!
Just gorgeous!
When I stepped out on the porch, a fat, little frog was perched right on the edge of the step, looking just like a little Buddha the way he was posed. He soon hopped away, though, knowing snack time was over since I turned off the light.
The air is definitely cooler and still feels like a touch of fall and cooler weather to come. A welcome relief from the heat and humidity. I went to the Park yesterday for some quiet meditation and watched as an anhinga came up out of the water with a fish in its beak. He expertly flipped it until the head was aimed down and gulped the fish down. I could see the large bulge in his neck as the snack went down. Then the anhinga flew up to a branch over head and started flipping his feathers and spread his wings to dry out for the next underwater dive. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
"God blesses those who realize their need for him.
for the Kingdom of Heaven is given to them.
God blesses those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
God blesses those who are gentle and lowly,
for the whole world will belong to them.
God blesses those who are hungry and
thirsty for justice, for they will receive it in full.
God blesses those who are merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
God blesses those whose hearts are pure,
for they will see God.
God blesses those who work for peace,
for they will be called the children of God.
God blesses those who are persecuted
because they live for God,
for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.
God blesses you when you are mocked and persecuted and lied about because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted, too.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Just gorgeous!
When I stepped out on the porch, a fat, little frog was perched right on the edge of the step, looking just like a little Buddha the way he was posed. He soon hopped away, though, knowing snack time was over since I turned off the light.
The air is definitely cooler and still feels like a touch of fall and cooler weather to come. A welcome relief from the heat and humidity. I went to the Park yesterday for some quiet meditation and watched as an anhinga came up out of the water with a fish in its beak. He expertly flipped it until the head was aimed down and gulped the fish down. I could see the large bulge in his neck as the snack went down. Then the anhinga flew up to a branch over head and started flipping his feathers and spread his wings to dry out for the next underwater dive. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
"God blesses those who realize their need for him.
for the Kingdom of Heaven is given to them.
God blesses those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
God blesses those who are gentle and lowly,
for the whole world will belong to them.
God blesses those who are hungry and
thirsty for justice, for they will receive it in full.
God blesses those who are merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
God blesses those whose hearts are pure,
for they will see God.
God blesses those who work for peace,
for they will be called the children of God.
God blesses those who are persecuted
because they live for God,
for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.
God blesses you when you are mocked and persecuted and lied about because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted, too.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)