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, spring is here, even though the calendar does not say so. The azaleas are blooming and I just looked out the window and the very old azalea bush in the back of the house has thrived even though neglected, and has beautiful deep rose blooms on it. It is probably about forty years old. I only noticed the front ones when I went out to check the leaf situation when Dave was here to blow all the fallen leaves into the dumpster. Guess I am not very observant! The driveway and front porch looked good for about fifteen minutes yesterday, but, of course, the leaves are still falling so, already the ground is covered again
I went to the park yesterday, on my way back from shopping, still in shock over the price of gas, and saw the roads were covered in oak leaves. I mean they were really thick! But the azaleas there were also blooming, and , the ibis were pecking as usual in the mud. Their feathers are always such a pristine white, but the beaks are covered in mud. Quite a contrast! I saw another osprey flying across from the Burger King in the busy city. I think it is the one who has the nest high on a light pole in the parking lot. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT and the NIV:
1 Corinthians 3:7 The ones who do the planting or watering aren't important, but God is important because he is the one who makes the seed grow. The one who plants and the one who waters work as a team with the same purpose. Yet they will be rewarded individually, according to their own hard work. We work together as partners who belong to God. You are God's field, God's building, not ours.
Because of God's special favor to me, I have laid the foundation like an expert builder. Now others are building on it. But whoever is building on this foundation must be very careful. For no one can lay any other foundation than the one we already have--Jesus Christ. Now anyone who builds on that foundation may use gold, silver, jewels, wood, hay or straw. But there is going to come a day of testing at the judgment day to see what kind of work each builder has done. Everyone's work will be put through the fire to see whether or not it keeps its value. If the work survives the fire. that builder will receive a reward. But if the work is burned up, the builder will suffer great loss. The builders themselves will be saved, but like someone escaping through a wall of flame....
Nahum 1:7
The Lord is good, a stronghold in times of trouble. He cares for you who trusts in Him.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, February 25, 2011
Thursday, February 24, 2011
A Psalm of Praise
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 fog must be hanging overhead because the sun has not shone yet, and the air feels a little damp. I wish it would rain, but not this morning, because Dave C. is coming to blow the leaves into the dumpster, which was just emptied. This is the peak falling time for the leaves, because the oaks are almost bare and every time I step outside the leaves fall on my head.
I have been hearing a mournful dove cooing his monotonous song while I was having my devotional time. He hardly took a breath between cooings. All is very quiet right now, unlike yesterday when the air was alive with robins chirping to each other!
I went shopping yesterday, then took a ride through the park, but all was quiet there, too. Not many people, but a few moms with children. It's a good place to go with the little ones. I saw a young osprey on the light pole at Sawgrass school, not far from here. There is a big nest on one of the poles and I have been seeing little heads sticking up, so I guess they are finally mature enough to leave home. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 150
Praise the Lord!
Praise God in his heavenly dwelling,
praise him in his mighty heaven!
Praise him for his mighty works;
praise his unequaled greatness!
Praise him with a blast of the trumpet;
Praise him with the lyre and harp!
Praise him with the tambourine and dancing;
Praise him with stringed instruments and flutes!
Praise him with a clash of cymbals;
praise him with long clanging cymbals,
Let everything that lives sing praises to the Lord!
Praise the Lord!
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I have been hearing a mournful dove cooing his monotonous song while I was having my devotional time. He hardly took a breath between cooings. All is very quiet right now, unlike yesterday when the air was alive with robins chirping to each other!
I went shopping yesterday, then took a ride through the park, but all was quiet there, too. Not many people, but a few moms with children. It's a good place to go with the little ones. I saw a young osprey on the light pole at Sawgrass school, not far from here. There is a big nest on one of the poles and I have been seeing little heads sticking up, so I guess they are finally mature enough to leave home. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 150
Praise the Lord!
Praise God in his heavenly dwelling,
praise him in his mighty heaven!
Praise him for his mighty works;
praise his unequaled greatness!
Praise him with a blast of the trumpet;
Praise him with the lyre and harp!
Praise him with the tambourine and dancing;
Praise him with stringed instruments and flutes!
Praise him with a clash of cymbals;
praise him with long clanging cymbals,
Let everything that lives sing praises to the Lord!
Praise the Lord!
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
A New Song
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 opened the drapes this morning, I could hardly see across the street because of the fog! But it has lifted from the ground and is still overhead, but it will probably burn off soon and be another very warm day!
When I stepped outside I found out why there were dark spots on the porch when I swept off the leaves. Dozens of robins were zooming all around and probably had been eating berries off the Brazilian pepper trees all around. I wish they hadn't gotten rid of them on the porch. Actually, that is the first time I have seen flocks of robins this year. They hung around quite a while, filling the air with their chirps while they called to each other.
I went to the park yesterday afternoon, but did not walk, as it was late and very warm. I would have had to take my umbrella to keep the sun off. But all the trees are now blooming out and turning green, so it is getting cheerier to look at every day. I was just in time to see a beautiful egret take off in graceful flight down the canal. It was a peaceful moment in the day. God is good!
From the devotional book Quiet Moments with God:
He put a new song in my mouth, A hymn of praise to our God. Psalm 40:3
Singer and songwriter Bobby Michaels tells how one summer he sensed a growing hunger to come up with a new song, , but he could not find it within him. As he was visiting his publishing company to discuss a new album, he met a young man working as an intern. The young man mentioned that he wrote songs, and Bobby found himself pouring his heart out to the young man.
"Forget what might be appealing or what might sell," said the young man. "Just tell me what you think God wants you to sing about." Bobby's story inspired the young man to write a beautiful song that uncannily communicated Bobby's heart. The name of the song is "My Redeemer is Faithful and True." It is an unpretentious and simple prayer of thanksgiving to our Creator. It is a reverent statement of faith in God's faithfulness. It literally made Bobby's heart sing anew his love for his Savior.
The sales staff and editors did not like the song. In fact, they did not believe that it would sell. "Too slow," they said. "Too redundant." On and on they went. But Bobby remained adamant that this song was directly from God and that it was anointed of God. He was convinced that it ministered to Him, and it would minister to others.
Guess what? Bobby was right. God has used the song to bless countless numbers of individuals, and the testimony he gives at his concerts prior to singing the song makes thousands of hearts sing right along with him. And the young man who wrote the song was Steven Curtis Chapman, winner of numerous Dove and Grammy awards.
Isn't God simply amazing! What new song does He want to put in your heart today?
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
When I stepped outside I found out why there were dark spots on the porch when I swept off the leaves. Dozens of robins were zooming all around and probably had been eating berries off the Brazilian pepper trees all around. I wish they hadn't gotten rid of them on the porch. Actually, that is the first time I have seen flocks of robins this year. They hung around quite a while, filling the air with their chirps while they called to each other.
I went to the park yesterday afternoon, but did not walk, as it was late and very warm. I would have had to take my umbrella to keep the sun off. But all the trees are now blooming out and turning green, so it is getting cheerier to look at every day. I was just in time to see a beautiful egret take off in graceful flight down the canal. It was a peaceful moment in the day. God is good!
From the devotional book Quiet Moments with God:
He put a new song in my mouth, A hymn of praise to our God. Psalm 40:3
Singer and songwriter Bobby Michaels tells how one summer he sensed a growing hunger to come up with a new song, , but he could not find it within him. As he was visiting his publishing company to discuss a new album, he met a young man working as an intern. The young man mentioned that he wrote songs, and Bobby found himself pouring his heart out to the young man.
"Forget what might be appealing or what might sell," said the young man. "Just tell me what you think God wants you to sing about." Bobby's story inspired the young man to write a beautiful song that uncannily communicated Bobby's heart. The name of the song is "My Redeemer is Faithful and True." It is an unpretentious and simple prayer of thanksgiving to our Creator. It is a reverent statement of faith in God's faithfulness. It literally made Bobby's heart sing anew his love for his Savior.
The sales staff and editors did not like the song. In fact, they did not believe that it would sell. "Too slow," they said. "Too redundant." On and on they went. But Bobby remained adamant that this song was directly from God and that it was anointed of God. He was convinced that it ministered to Him, and it would minister to others.
Guess what? Bobby was right. God has used the song to bless countless numbers of individuals, and the testimony he gives at his concerts prior to singing the song makes thousands of hearts sing right along with him. And the young man who wrote the song was Steven Curtis Chapman, winner of numerous Dove and Grammy awards.
Isn't God simply amazing! What new song does He want to put in your heart today?
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Comfort
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, there is not so much to rejoice about with the news of another police officer killed in the line of duty last night. When will the violence stop!? My heart and prayers go out to those in law enforcement including my two nephews and a friend who is an officer locally. I haven't heard in the last hour, whether or not the suspect has been caught, but hopefully, very soon. And all this took place right behind AAA where I have been frequently. So scary!
But God in His mercy is still Good!
Scriptures of Comfort from the Promise Bible NLT:
How does God comfort us?
Psalm 23:4 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.
Psalm 30:5 His anger lasts for a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime! Weeping may go on all night, but joy comes in the morning.
Matthew 5:4 God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
God comforts us by staying close beside us in difficulty, by blessing us even when we are in mourning and by promising us joy to come.
Psalm 14:18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, binding up their wounds.
God comforts us by healing our hearts, even when they are broken.
Psalm 145:14 The Lord helps the fallen and lifts up those bent beneath their loads.
John 16:33 I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows, but take heart, because I have overcome the world.
When we are overwhelmed, God comforts us with his presence. He calms our hearts, renews our confidence and awakens our hope.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
But God in His mercy is still Good!
Scriptures of Comfort from the Promise Bible NLT:
How does God comfort us?
Psalm 23:4 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.
Psalm 30:5 His anger lasts for a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime! Weeping may go on all night, but joy comes in the morning.
Matthew 5:4 God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
God comforts us by staying close beside us in difficulty, by blessing us even when we are in mourning and by promising us joy to come.
Psalm 14:18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, binding up their wounds.
God comforts us by healing our hearts, even when they are broken.
Psalm 145:14 The Lord helps the fallen and lifts up those bent beneath their loads.
John 16:33 I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows, but take heart, because I have overcome the world.
When we are overwhelmed, God comforts us with his presence. He calms our hearts, renews our confidence and awakens our hope.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, February 21, 2011
Trust the Future to 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! Well, it looks like the same old weather we have had for a couple weeks now! Just perfect! We really could use some rain, though, to dampen the pollen. The leaves are falling like rain, now, because the new little green ones are pushing them off! I have to take the broom to my porch this morning, because it is pretty well filled. When I get those off, more will be there before the day is over.
The leaves are really falling in the Park! The road was covered and so was everything else when I went there yesterday. I didn't see the gator, but a couple of turtles were sunning on the bank of the weir. I also saw lots of birds and ducks around Lynch lake when I passed it. I also noticed benches have been place all around the lake. That is a nice touch from the city. Since it needs mowing, it will be interesting to see how they maneuver around the benches. But God is still Good!
I say this because I know what I am planning for you,"says the Lord. "I have good plans for you, not plans to hurt you. I will give you hope and a good future." Jeremiah 29:11
How can you get to know God if you're unwilling to trust Him? The answer, of course, is that you can't. That's why you should trust God in everything (and that means entrusting your future to God).
Do you trust in the ultimate goodness of God's plan for your life? Will you face tomorrow's challenges with optimism and hope? You should. After all, God created you for a very important reason: His reason. And you still have important work to do: His work.
Today, as you live in the present and look to the future, remember that God has an amazing plan for you. Act--and believe--accordingly.
Take courage. We walk in the wilderness today and in the Promised Land tomorrow/
D. L. Moody
-Today's Prayer-
Lord, sometimes when I think about the future, I worry. Today, I will do a better job of trusting You. If I become discouraged, I will turn to You. If I am afraid, I will seek strength in You. You are my Father, and I will place my hope, my trust, and my faith in You. Amen
(From the little 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 leaves are really falling in the Park! The road was covered and so was everything else when I went there yesterday. I didn't see the gator, but a couple of turtles were sunning on the bank of the weir. I also saw lots of birds and ducks around Lynch lake when I passed it. I also noticed benches have been place all around the lake. That is a nice touch from the city. Since it needs mowing, it will be interesting to see how they maneuver around the benches. But God is still Good!
I say this because I know what I am planning for you,"says the Lord. "I have good plans for you, not plans to hurt you. I will give you hope and a good future." Jeremiah 29:11
How can you get to know God if you're unwilling to trust Him? The answer, of course, is that you can't. That's why you should trust God in everything (and that means entrusting your future to God).
Do you trust in the ultimate goodness of God's plan for your life? Will you face tomorrow's challenges with optimism and hope? You should. After all, God created you for a very important reason: His reason. And you still have important work to do: His work.
Today, as you live in the present and look to the future, remember that God has an amazing plan for you. Act--and believe--accordingly.
Take courage. We walk in the wilderness today and in the Promised Land tomorrow/
D. L. Moody
-Today's Prayer-
Lord, sometimes when I think about the future, I worry. Today, I will do a better job of trusting You. If I become discouraged, I will turn to You. If I am afraid, I will seek strength in You. You are my Father, and I will place my hope, my trust, and my faith in You. Amen
(From the little devotional book Knowing God.)
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, February 18, 2011
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! The moon was full last night, which usually causes me to have a fitful night's sleep, but since I was tired, I really slept well. And today is another beautiful one, already almost seventy! We are blessed!
Since I took my walk at Walmart yesterday, I did not have the energy to walk in the park. As I was walking from one end to the other at the big store, I was a little disturbed at how politeness seems to be a thing of the past. Even older men, who should know better, cut in front of me, and the women stop in the middle of the aisle, just looking, not caring that they hold up someone else. I did come across one polite person at the tea aisle, though. He was riding an electric cart and told a stock man that I had found a box of tea that was torn open. It was the kind I wanted, but the only one on the shelf. At least the stock man took it off the shelf, but guess I'll have to look elsewhere for the tea. Publix didn't have it, either.
Even though I did not walk in the park, I still drove there. I was looking for the bird's nest in one of the arborvitae that I saw a man photographing a couple days ago. I hope it has not been abandoned. I could see five white eggs in it. I didn't see the nest but maybe it was just covered up. Big and little turtles were on the bank of the weir again and the gator was high on the bank. The white egrets are so lovely against the gray mud and gnarly trunks and branches of the trees! The green leaves have not grown enough to cover the gray branches, so everything is still pretty stark. But my oaks have tiny green leaves, now, so spring is almost here! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ephesians 1:15-23
"Ever since I first heard of your strong faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for Christians everywhere, I have never stopped thanking God for you. I pray for you constantly, asking God the glorious Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you might grow in your knowledge of God. I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the wonderful future he has promised to those he called. I want you to realize what a rich and glorious inheritance he has given to his people."
I pray that you will begin to understand the incredible greatness of his power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God's right hand in the heavenly realms. Now he is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else in this world or in the world to come. and God has put all things under the authority of Christ, and he gave him this authority for the benefit of the church. And the church is his body; it is filled by Christ, who fills everything every where with his presence.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Since I took my walk at Walmart yesterday, I did not have the energy to walk in the park. As I was walking from one end to the other at the big store, I was a little disturbed at how politeness seems to be a thing of the past. Even older men, who should know better, cut in front of me, and the women stop in the middle of the aisle, just looking, not caring that they hold up someone else. I did come across one polite person at the tea aisle, though. He was riding an electric cart and told a stock man that I had found a box of tea that was torn open. It was the kind I wanted, but the only one on the shelf. At least the stock man took it off the shelf, but guess I'll have to look elsewhere for the tea. Publix didn't have it, either.
Even though I did not walk in the park, I still drove there. I was looking for the bird's nest in one of the arborvitae that I saw a man photographing a couple days ago. I hope it has not been abandoned. I could see five white eggs in it. I didn't see the nest but maybe it was just covered up. Big and little turtles were on the bank of the weir again and the gator was high on the bank. The white egrets are so lovely against the gray mud and gnarly trunks and branches of the trees! The green leaves have not grown enough to cover the gray branches, so everything is still pretty stark. But my oaks have tiny green leaves, now, so spring is almost here! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ephesians 1:15-23
"Ever since I first heard of your strong faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for Christians everywhere, I have never stopped thanking God for you. I pray for you constantly, asking God the glorious Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you might grow in your knowledge of God. I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the wonderful future he has promised to those he called. I want you to realize what a rich and glorious inheritance he has given to his people."
I pray that you will begin to understand the incredible greatness of his power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God's right hand in the heavenly realms. Now he is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else in this world or in the world to come. and God has put all things under the authority of Christ, and he gave him this authority for the benefit of the church. And the church is his body; it is filled by Christ, who fills everything every where with his presence.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Psoaring thru Psalm 103
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 was surprised when I stepped outside this morning, to see the heavy fog hanging tree top height. It was white and very thick. But I am sure when it burns off the sun will warm us up into the seventies again today. The weather has really been perfect!
Yesterday, I just had to get out and enjoy the day, so I walked on the sidewalk at the park, out to the second bridge, and then crossed it and went on to the third bridge. Lots of people were in the park, but only two or three where I was. I passed turtles on logs sunning, and several egrets looking for food, and the cheerful little moorhens, happily swimming about in pairs. A baby squirrel fussed at me as it scampered up a tree with an acorn in its mouth, and some tiny wrens flitted past, flying from tree to tree. When I got to the third bridge, several people were looking over the rail at a fat gator on the bank. She actually looked full of eggs. She had her mouth open and a gray ibis was only about two or three feet from her head, but, although looking warily at the gator, did not seem afraid. On the other side of the canal a beautiful white egret was looking in the dark water for a fish for lunch. Lots of life always at the park! God is good!
From the Promise Bible continued from yesterday:
Psalm 103:12
He has removed our rebellious acts as far away from us as the east is from the west.
The Lord is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him
for he understands how weak we are, he knows we are only dust.
Our days on earth are like grass; like wildflowers, we bloom and die.
The wind blows, and we are gone---as though we had never been here.
But the love of the Lord remains forever with those who fear him.
His salvation extends to the children's children
of those who are faithful to his covenant of those who obey his commandments!
The Lord has made the heavens his throne;
from there he rules over everything. Praise the Lord, you angels of his,
you mighty creatures who carry out his plans; listening for each of his commands.
Yes, praise the Lord, you armies of angels, who serve him and do his will!
Praise the Lord, everything he has created, everywhere in his kingdom.
As for me--I, too, will praise the Lord!
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday, I just had to get out and enjoy the day, so I walked on the sidewalk at the park, out to the second bridge, and then crossed it and went on to the third bridge. Lots of people were in the park, but only two or three where I was. I passed turtles on logs sunning, and several egrets looking for food, and the cheerful little moorhens, happily swimming about in pairs. A baby squirrel fussed at me as it scampered up a tree with an acorn in its mouth, and some tiny wrens flitted past, flying from tree to tree. When I got to the third bridge, several people were looking over the rail at a fat gator on the bank. She actually looked full of eggs. She had her mouth open and a gray ibis was only about two or three feet from her head, but, although looking warily at the gator, did not seem afraid. On the other side of the canal a beautiful white egret was looking in the dark water for a fish for lunch. Lots of life always at the park! God is good!
From the Promise Bible continued from yesterday:
Psalm 103:12
He has removed our rebellious acts as far away from us as the east is from the west.
The Lord is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him
for he understands how weak we are, he knows we are only dust.
Our days on earth are like grass; like wildflowers, we bloom and die.
The wind blows, and we are gone---as though we had never been here.
But the love of the Lord remains forever with those who fear him.
His salvation extends to the children's children
of those who are faithful to his covenant of those who obey his commandments!
The Lord has made the heavens his throne;
from there he rules over everything. Praise the Lord, you angels of his,
you mighty creatures who carry out his plans; listening for each of his commands.
Yes, praise the Lord, you armies of angels, who serve him and do his will!
Praise the Lord, everything he has created, everywhere in his kingdom.
As for me--I, too, will praise the Lord!
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Psoaring thru Psalm 103
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 beautiful weather we are having! Blue skies and lots of sun; still chilly in the mornings, but warm in the rest of the day! Just perfect! The fruit trees next door are loaded with oranges and grapefruit, and my beauty berry bush in the backyard is all bloomed out and filling in with leaves. It seems like spring is here, but this is only Feb. so we should have more cold weather, before it really warms up.
After spending a couple hours in the doctors's office yesterday, to find out I'm in good shape for the shape I'm in, I decided to shop a little, which I did, in a quiet store without many people. It was good just to look around and take my time, with no rush. BTW, I really like my doctor. He takes his time and we chat and he really listens. Now everything is electronic and so no paper work. The doctors and nurses walk around with their laptops that contain all the info on every patient. Even the next appointments are on paper now, and you have to cut them out to post them, Sure don't want the doctors to be robots, next! After watching Watson, the robot, beat two smart guys at Jeopardy last night, I have to remind myself that humans still had to program everything. So we are still good for something!
I went to the Park yesterday afternoon, and was reminded of how God is still in control, and created everything! The big gator was sunning on the bank of the lake on one side and lots of turtles sunning on the other side. Flocks of ibis and the great blue heron were busy doing their thing, which is getting as much to eat as they can every day. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 103; excerpts
Praise the Lord, I tell myself;
with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name.
Praise the Lord, I tell myself, and never forget the good things he does for me.
He forgives all my sins, and heals all my diseases. He ransoms me from death
and surrounds me with love and tender mercies.
He fills my life with good things. My youth is renewed like the eagle's.
The Lord gives righteousness and justice to all who are treated unfairly.
He revealed his character to Moses and his deeds to the people of Israel.
The Lord is merciful and gracious, He is slow to get angry and full of unfailing love,
He will not constantly accuse us , nor remain angry forever.
He has not punished us for all our sins, nor does he deal with us as we deserve.
For his unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. ..
(con't tomorrow)
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
After spending a couple hours in the doctors's office yesterday, to find out I'm in good shape for the shape I'm in, I decided to shop a little, which I did, in a quiet store without many people. It was good just to look around and take my time, with no rush. BTW, I really like my doctor. He takes his time and we chat and he really listens. Now everything is electronic and so no paper work. The doctors and nurses walk around with their laptops that contain all the info on every patient. Even the next appointments are on paper now, and you have to cut them out to post them, Sure don't want the doctors to be robots, next! After watching Watson, the robot, beat two smart guys at Jeopardy last night, I have to remind myself that humans still had to program everything. So we are still good for something!
I went to the Park yesterday afternoon, and was reminded of how God is still in control, and created everything! The big gator was sunning on the bank of the lake on one side and lots of turtles sunning on the other side. Flocks of ibis and the great blue heron were busy doing their thing, which is getting as much to eat as they can every day. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 103; excerpts
Praise the Lord, I tell myself;
with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name.
Praise the Lord, I tell myself, and never forget the good things he does for me.
He forgives all my sins, and heals all my diseases. He ransoms me from death
and surrounds me with love and tender mercies.
He fills my life with good things. My youth is renewed like the eagle's.
The Lord gives righteousness and justice to all who are treated unfairly.
He revealed his character to Moses and his deeds to the people of Israel.
The Lord is merciful and gracious, He is slow to get angry and full of unfailing love,
He will not constantly accuse us , nor remain angry forever.
He has not punished us for all our sins, nor does he deal with us as we deserve.
For his unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. ..
(con't tomorrow)
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Open up Your Heart
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! A little chilly this morning, like yesterday, but we will have sunny skies and warm temps later on. Beautiful weather!
I hope you all had a wonderful Valentine's Day, as I did. I received a loving card from a friend, and a beautiful bouquet in a lovely vase from my sons. Then an evening with our Faith Group friends. It was a good day!
I saw the gator sunning full length on the bank of the lake at the Park Sunday,, but yesterday he was not there, but on the other side, on the bank of the weir, was a cluster of turtles of all sizes drying out. The park was so crowded Sunday, there was hardly a parking space to be found, so I decided not to walk. I would really rather walk in solitude, than with a crowd of people, but that's just me. I see lots of maple seeds everywhere, on the boardwalk, and floating on the water in the canal. The pollen count is high and I sneeze and blow, but it will yellow up the cars and windowsills, and then relief for awhile. But God is good!
From the little devotional book, Knowing God
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28 NIV
If you want to know God in a more meaningful way, you'll need to open up your heart and let Him in. C.S. Lewis observed, "A person's spiritual health is exactly proportional to his love for God." If you hope to receive a full measure of God's spiritual blessings, you must invite your Creator to rule over your heart. When you honor God in this way, His love expands to fill your heart and bless your life.
St. Augustine wrote, "I love you. Lord, not doubtingly, but with absolute certainty. Your Word beat upon my heart until I fell in love with you, and now the universe and everything in it tells me to love you."
Today, open your heart to the Father. And let your obedience be a fitting response to His never-ending love.
You will trust God only as much as you love him. And you will love him not because you have studied him; you will love him because you have touched him-in response to his touch.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I hope you all had a wonderful Valentine's Day, as I did. I received a loving card from a friend, and a beautiful bouquet in a lovely vase from my sons. Then an evening with our Faith Group friends. It was a good day!
I saw the gator sunning full length on the bank of the lake at the Park Sunday,, but yesterday he was not there, but on the other side, on the bank of the weir, was a cluster of turtles of all sizes drying out. The park was so crowded Sunday, there was hardly a parking space to be found, so I decided not to walk. I would really rather walk in solitude, than with a crowd of people, but that's just me. I see lots of maple seeds everywhere, on the boardwalk, and floating on the water in the canal. The pollen count is high and I sneeze and blow, but it will yellow up the cars and windowsills, and then relief for awhile. But God is good!
From the little devotional book, Knowing God
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28 NIV
If you want to know God in a more meaningful way, you'll need to open up your heart and let Him in. C.S. Lewis observed, "A person's spiritual health is exactly proportional to his love for God." If you hope to receive a full measure of God's spiritual blessings, you must invite your Creator to rule over your heart. When you honor God in this way, His love expands to fill your heart and bless your life.
St. Augustine wrote, "I love you. Lord, not doubtingly, but with absolute certainty. Your Word beat upon my heart until I fell in love with you, and now the universe and everything in it tells me to love you."
Today, open your heart to the Father. And let your obedience be a fitting response to His never-ending love.
You will trust God only as much as you love him. And you will love him not because you have studied him; you will love him because you have touched him-in response to his touch.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, February 11, 2011
Love Chapter
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! A little overcast and cool this morning with the wind blowing, but the sun will probably come out soon like yesterday, so every day I can get out of bed is a good day!
Yesterday I drove to the park and was blessed by seeing a pale, roseate spoonbill; a spot of beauty against the gray mud, and right beside the beauty, was a tri-colored heron, who was very big and dark looking. Always the ibis, in their white beauty, are pecking around and the little ducks and moor hens. I was very startled by a crazy squirrel who dashed out in front of the car, and changed his mind right in front of me. I put on the brakes, thinking I hit him, but he dashed on across. Almost gave me a heart attack! But God is good!
From the Message:
The Way of Love
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.
Love doesn't have a swelled head,
Doesn't force itself on others.
Doesn't 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.
...But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that concummation. Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
AmaryllisIsn't always "me first"
Yesterday I drove to the park and was blessed by seeing a pale, roseate spoonbill; a spot of beauty against the gray mud, and right beside the beauty, was a tri-colored heron, who was very big and dark looking. Always the ibis, in their white beauty, are pecking around and the little ducks and moor hens. I was very startled by a crazy squirrel who dashed out in front of the car, and changed his mind right in front of me. I put on the brakes, thinking I hit him, but he dashed on across. Almost gave me a heart attack! But God is good!
From the Message:
The Way of Love
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.
Love doesn't have a swelled head,
Doesn't force itself on others.
Doesn't 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.
...But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that concummation. Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
AmaryllisIsn't always "me first"
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Blessings
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, what a contrast in the weather compared to yesterday! The rain has stopped and it is still in the high sixties, but overcast and maybe turning cooler. Well, we need the rain, because we usually don't get much in Feb.
After I went to get gas yesterday I stopped in at the park, and took a walk on the sidewalk, trudged up a hill, just to see the view, and on over the bridge. I paused along the way to look at several turtles, an anhinga, and moorhen all by the same log. A man with a nice camera was taking their picture, and one man had his camera phone snapping away. the background was not too pretty, because of all the mud, caused by the low water. I also noticed lots of maple seeds floating on the water, so spring will soon be here and all the bare, gnarly gray branches will be filled with bright green leaves.
On the way in to the park, I saw the wet, shiny black gator just out of the water, on the bank of the lake, and on the way out, he was all dried out and not shiny any more. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How has God promised to bless his people?
Numbers 6:24-26 May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.
God's blessing encompasses all of life. We live in his protection, his presence and his peace. Nothing this world can compare in scope or duration with the blessing of God.
Jeremiah 17:7 Blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence.
We are tempted to base our hope and confidence on worldly circumstances such as a good job or financial security. But these cannot compare to the promises that we have in God, the creator of heaven and earth. Put your hope where it cannot and will not be shaken.
Can we do things that affect how much God blesses us?
Psalm 84:11 The Lord God is our light and protector. He gives us grace and glory. No good thing will the Lord withhold from those who do what is right.
God promises to bless those who do what is right; he doesn't extend the same promise to those who don't do what is right.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
After I went to get gas yesterday I stopped in at the park, and took a walk on the sidewalk, trudged up a hill, just to see the view, and on over the bridge. I paused along the way to look at several turtles, an anhinga, and moorhen all by the same log. A man with a nice camera was taking their picture, and one man had his camera phone snapping away. the background was not too pretty, because of all the mud, caused by the low water. I also noticed lots of maple seeds floating on the water, so spring will soon be here and all the bare, gnarly gray branches will be filled with bright green leaves.
On the way in to the park, I saw the wet, shiny black gator just out of the water, on the bank of the lake, and on the way out, he was all dried out and not shiny any more. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How has God promised to bless his people?
Numbers 6:24-26 May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.
God's blessing encompasses all of life. We live in his protection, his presence and his peace. Nothing this world can compare in scope or duration with the blessing of God.
Jeremiah 17:7 Blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence.
We are tempted to base our hope and confidence on worldly circumstances such as a good job or financial security. But these cannot compare to the promises that we have in God, the creator of heaven and earth. Put your hope where it cannot and will not be shaken.
Can we do things that affect how much God blesses us?
Psalm 84:11 The Lord God is our light and protector. He gives us grace and glory. No good thing will the Lord withhold from those who do what is right.
God promises to bless those who do what is right; he doesn't extend the same promise to those who don't do what is right.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Assurance
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 today, but the weather turned colder overnight and we were only fifty when I crawled out of my warm bed. But I knew winter is not over,yet even though all the plants are budding out. I also heard on the weather report that our pollen count is highest in the country right now, even after all the rain. I can usually tell by the sneezing fits I have.
Once again, I have proof that there are no coincidences with God. I watched the widow of one of the officers slain two weeks ago, give a remarkable testimony on TV last evening. She describes how God has planned all the events and how she knows she will see her husband again one day. Her children are also strong believers, but the 5 and a half year old is having trouble understanding why his daddy won't be coming home again . She is planning to go back to teaching kindergarten today.
Well, when I sat down for breakfast I looked at my Daily Blessings calendar, and there was , in big letters, Companionship .
and above that was this...If there is a sense of God's abiding presence,
I have found that to be true, and the widow's photo and testimony are on the front page of today's Times. Praise God for her strong witness. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How can I be assured of God's love in difficult times?
Isaiah 43:1-2 Now, O Israel, the Lord who created you says, "Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters and great trouble,. I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown! When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up, the flames will not consume you." You are mine, you are precious in my sight."
Life's circumstances don't come between God and his people. They don't get in God's way. Hard times are often when God reveals his infinite love and care for us.
The assurance of God's love gives us courage to come to him with any problem, struggle, or concern. Our prayers are never interruptions to the Lord. When we knock, the door is always open to us.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Once again, I have proof that there are no coincidences with God. I watched the widow of one of the officers slain two weeks ago, give a remarkable testimony on TV last evening. She describes how God has planned all the events and how she knows she will see her husband again one day. Her children are also strong believers, but the 5 and a half year old is having trouble understanding why his daddy won't be coming home again . She is planning to go back to teaching kindergarten today.
Well, when I sat down for breakfast I looked at my Daily Blessings calendar, and there was , in big letters, Companionship .
and above that was this...If there is a sense of God's abiding presence,
I have found that to be true, and the widow's photo and testimony are on the front page of today's Times. Praise God for her strong witness. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How can I be assured of God's love in difficult times?
Isaiah 43:1-2 Now, O Israel, the Lord who created you says, "Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters and great trouble,. I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown! When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up, the flames will not consume you." You are mine, you are precious in my sight."
Life's circumstances don't come between God and his people. They don't get in God's way. Hard times are often when God reveals his infinite love and care for us.
The assurance of God's love gives us courage to come to him with any problem, struggle, or concern. Our prayers are never interruptions to the Lord. When we knock, the door is always open to us.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Open yourself up to God's surprising plans
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! Not as much wind today, but it definitely brought in colder weather! We are in the high fifties today, but the sun is trying to shine, so it will still be a nice day.
A really busy day yesterday left no time for walking, but I did ride through the park, and saw only a few cars parked, so a lot of people stayed away. Of course, with all that wind and heavy clouds threatening rain, it was not a good day to walk. I noticed one turtle on the bank of the weir, and one medium sized gator on the other side. Wind and rain do not matter to them.
I made the mistake of driving by Lynch School at dismissal time, and passed a hundred cars, lined up past the lake and out to 70th Ave. Because of the rain clouds, most of the relatives drove to pick up their students. I should have come a different way! I discovered you have to watch out for the drivers, also, because even in our quiet neighborhood, they run through stop signs and drive very fast down the streets. Not a good example for the little ones! I try to avoid going out at dismissal time, because of the traffic, but had an appointment , so had no choice. But God is good!
From the little devotional book Knowing God:
But as it is written;
What no eye has seen and no ear has heard,
and what has never come into a man's heart,
is what God has prepared for those who love Him.
1 Corinthians 2:9 HCSB
God has plans for your life, wonderful, surprising plans...but He won't force those plans upon you. To the contrary, He has given you free will, the ability to make decisions on your own. With that freedom to choose comes the responsibility of living with the consequences of the choices you make.
If you seek to live in accordance with God's will for your life--and you should--then you should live in accordance with His commandments. You will study God's word, and you will be watchful for his signs. You will associate with fellow Christians who will encourage your spiritual growth, and you will listen to that inner voice that speaks to you in the quiet moments of our daily devotionals.
God intends to use you in wonderful, unexpected ways if you let Him. The decision to seek God's plan is yours and yours alone. The consequences of that decision have implications that are both profound and eternal so choose carefully.
Even when we cannot see the why and wherefore of God's dealings, we know that there is love in and behind them, so we can rejoice always.
-J.J. Packer-
-Today's Prayer-
Dear Lord, I know that You have a plan for me. Today, I will seek Your will in every aspect of my life. I will seek to live obediently, courageously, and wisely. Heavenly Father, please make me watchful for your signs and accepting of Your love, for this day and forever. Amen
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
A really busy day yesterday left no time for walking, but I did ride through the park, and saw only a few cars parked, so a lot of people stayed away. Of course, with all that wind and heavy clouds threatening rain, it was not a good day to walk. I noticed one turtle on the bank of the weir, and one medium sized gator on the other side. Wind and rain do not matter to them.
I made the mistake of driving by Lynch School at dismissal time, and passed a hundred cars, lined up past the lake and out to 70th Ave. Because of the rain clouds, most of the relatives drove to pick up their students. I should have come a different way! I discovered you have to watch out for the drivers, also, because even in our quiet neighborhood, they run through stop signs and drive very fast down the streets. Not a good example for the little ones! I try to avoid going out at dismissal time, because of the traffic, but had an appointment , so had no choice. But God is good!
From the little devotional book Knowing God:
But as it is written;
What no eye has seen and no ear has heard,
and what has never come into a man's heart,
is what God has prepared for those who love Him.
1 Corinthians 2:9 HCSB
God has plans for your life, wonderful, surprising plans...but He won't force those plans upon you. To the contrary, He has given you free will, the ability to make decisions on your own. With that freedom to choose comes the responsibility of living with the consequences of the choices you make.
If you seek to live in accordance with God's will for your life--and you should--then you should live in accordance with His commandments. You will study God's word, and you will be watchful for his signs. You will associate with fellow Christians who will encourage your spiritual growth, and you will listen to that inner voice that speaks to you in the quiet moments of our daily devotionals.
God intends to use you in wonderful, unexpected ways if you let Him. The decision to seek God's plan is yours and yours alone. The consequences of that decision have implications that are both profound and eternal so choose carefully.
Even when we cannot see the why and wherefore of God's dealings, we know that there is love in and behind them, so we can rejoice always.
-J.J. Packer-
-Today's Prayer-
Dear Lord, I know that You have a plan for me. Today, I will seek Your will in every aspect of my life. I will seek to live obediently, courageously, and wisely. Heavenly Father, please make me watchful for your signs and accepting of Your love, for this day and forever. Amen
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, February 7, 2011
Healing
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, water is dripping off the roof again after what looks like an all night gentle rain. But we have needed rain so all is well.
Yesterday, the sun came out for a little while, so after lunch, I went to the cemetery, because it would have been Louis' 84th birthday, had God not called him home. I was surprised to see the flowers that I placed there last week, still there and not looking too wilted. I think because we had mostly overcast skies that that helped preserve them.
The caretakers do a wonderful job taking care of the grounds. There were a couple muddy spots last week at the beginning of the path, but this week new sod was put down and it was good walking. Lots of new graves with flowers in stands marking them, but still a lovely resting place for all the service people.
I stopped by the park after church, and saw the two black, shiny gators resting there on the muddy bank. (Yes, Gil, they did kinda look like my shoes!) Even though the sun was not shining, I guess they needed warming up. Some turtles were also drying out on the other side, and the usual ibis and pretty white egrets were in the canal.
And then, the Super Bowl! I was not rooting for either team until the game started and then I was for the Packers, because I like Aaron Rodgers. It sure was Mr. Rodgers' neighborhood last night! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Luke 5: 12-13 In one of the villages, Jesus met a man with an advanced case of leprosy. When the man saw Jesus, he fell to the ground, face down in the dust, begging to be healed. "Lord," he said, "IF you want to, you can make me well again." Jesus reached out and touched the man. "I want to," he said. "Be healed!" And instantly the leprosy disappeared.
Jesus has the ability and the willingness to heal us. We are not bothering God when we pray for healing, we are expressing our faith and trust in him
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday, the sun came out for a little while, so after lunch, I went to the cemetery, because it would have been Louis' 84th birthday, had God not called him home. I was surprised to see the flowers that I placed there last week, still there and not looking too wilted. I think because we had mostly overcast skies that that helped preserve them.
The caretakers do a wonderful job taking care of the grounds. There were a couple muddy spots last week at the beginning of the path, but this week new sod was put down and it was good walking. Lots of new graves with flowers in stands marking them, but still a lovely resting place for all the service people.
I stopped by the park after church, and saw the two black, shiny gators resting there on the muddy bank. (Yes, Gil, they did kinda look like my shoes!) Even though the sun was not shining, I guess they needed warming up. Some turtles were also drying out on the other side, and the usual ibis and pretty white egrets were in the canal.
And then, the Super Bowl! I was not rooting for either team until the game started and then I was for the Packers, because I like Aaron Rodgers. It sure was Mr. Rodgers' neighborhood last night! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Luke 5: 12-13 In one of the villages, Jesus met a man with an advanced case of leprosy. When the man saw Jesus, he fell to the ground, face down in the dust, begging to be healed. "Lord," he said, "IF you want to, you can make me well again." Jesus reached out and touched the man. "I want to," he said. "Be healed!" And instantly the leprosy disappeared.
Jesus has the ability and the willingness to heal us. We are not bothering God when we pray for healing, we are expressing our faith and trust in him
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, February 4, 2011
Faith and Endurance
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's another foggy morning, but yesterday, the sun came out late in the afternoon, so today will probably be the same. The temp. is still 69, so these days we have not used heat or A/C. Love to see those bills come down!
My yard man did a good job of clearing out the leaves again, but it won't be the last time. The trees are still loaded with yellow leaves and the next good wind will bring them all down, plus the new green leaves will be pushing them off. We were noticing the tiny buds on the plants..the azaleas and the hedge plants, and , also, the beauty berry bush, so spring is coming! Next will probably be the Crape Myrtle.
I took a walk from the circle sidewalk, over the entrance bridge, and out to the first shelter at the park yesterday and saw a tri-colored heron, several ibis, and egrets. A stark contrast to the dull, muddy banks and dead looking trees, which are the background for the white feathers on the birds.
I also watched the six or seven different gators which were scattered all around the shelter. Mama gator was there, but I only saw a couple small gators. The others were varying ages, from about a year to two years and up. Very interesting. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
James 1:
Dear brothers and sisters, whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything.
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. And remember, no one who wants to do wrong should ever say, "God is tempting me." God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else either. Temptation comes from the lure of our own evil desires. These evil desires lead to evil actions and evil actions lead to death. So don't be misled, my dear brothers and sisters.
Whatever is good and perfect comes us us from God above, who created all heaven's lights. Unlike them, he never changes or casts shifting shadows. In his goodness he close to make us his own children by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became his choice possession.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
My yard man did a good job of clearing out the leaves again, but it won't be the last time. The trees are still loaded with yellow leaves and the next good wind will bring them all down, plus the new green leaves will be pushing them off. We were noticing the tiny buds on the plants..the azaleas and the hedge plants, and , also, the beauty berry bush, so spring is coming! Next will probably be the Crape Myrtle.
I took a walk from the circle sidewalk, over the entrance bridge, and out to the first shelter at the park yesterday and saw a tri-colored heron, several ibis, and egrets. A stark contrast to the dull, muddy banks and dead looking trees, which are the background for the white feathers on the birds.
I also watched the six or seven different gators which were scattered all around the shelter. Mama gator was there, but I only saw a couple small gators. The others were varying ages, from about a year to two years and up. Very interesting. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
James 1:
Dear brothers and sisters, whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything.
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. And remember, no one who wants to do wrong should ever say, "God is tempting me." God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else either. Temptation comes from the lure of our own evil desires. These evil desires lead to evil actions and evil actions lead to death. So don't be misled, my dear brothers and sisters.
Whatever is good and perfect comes us us from God above, who created all heaven's lights. Unlike them, he never changes or casts shifting shadows. In his goodness he close to make us his own children by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became his choice possession.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Paul's final advice
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 a dense fog warning for this morning, so the sun has not peeked out yet, but we don't have to shovel or blow the fog away and it will disperse in a couple hours, so life is good!
There is a big sod truck parked in front of my house for a house across the street and down a couple doors. I feel like hi-jacking the sod for my front yard, which is almost bare up front, because of the shade from the oak trees. I wish I could have grass and trees, but the grass needs sun and the trees shade the house, so I guess I can't have both! Right now, the yard is full of acorns and leaves, but my friend and yard man is coming over to clean up some of the leaves for now. More will be coming down, because they all have to come off so the new little green leaves can have room. That might be next week when we are supposed to have freezing temps again. Oh, well, winter is not over yet.
I went to the park yesterday after running some errands, and the canal is nearly clean now. The volunteer was busy getting all the trash out and doing a good job. A couple of turtles were sunning along with an anhinga, but the gators were not visible. But, God is good!
From 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28 NLT:
Dear Brothers and Sisters, honor those who are your leaders in the Lord's work. They work hard among you and warn you against all that is wrong. Think highly of them and give them your wholehearted love because of their work. And remember to live peacefully with each other.
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 prophesies, 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.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
There is a big sod truck parked in front of my house for a house across the street and down a couple doors. I feel like hi-jacking the sod for my front yard, which is almost bare up front, because of the shade from the oak trees. I wish I could have grass and trees, but the grass needs sun and the trees shade the house, so I guess I can't have both! Right now, the yard is full of acorns and leaves, but my friend and yard man is coming over to clean up some of the leaves for now. More will be coming down, because they all have to come off so the new little green leaves can have room. That might be next week when we are supposed to have freezing temps again. Oh, well, winter is not over yet.
I went to the park yesterday after running some errands, and the canal is nearly clean now. The volunteer was busy getting all the trash out and doing a good job. A couple of turtles were sunning along with an anhinga, but the gators were not visible. But, God is good!
From 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28 NLT:
Dear Brothers and Sisters, honor those who are your leaders in the Lord's work. They work hard among you and warn you against all that is wrong. Think highly of them and give them your wholehearted love because of their work. And remember to live peacefully with each other.
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 prophesies, 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.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Psoaring thru Psalm 121
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 was watching the weather channel this morning, and looking at all the blizzards and snow, power outages, schools closed and businesses closed and was so thankful that I live in Florida! Last night our low was 71. This morning the wind is blowing and the sky is overcast with a threat of rain, but it's still 71, so I am rejoicing in the day!
My Honeybell oranges came yesterday, and I was able to squeeze about four ounces of juice out of just two oranges. Yum! Fresh juice with pulp in it! Sunshine in a glass!
I walked around the house outside looking at the beauty berry bush and the crepe myrtle, neither of which has leaves, and wondering if the freeze we had killed them, or if they just haven't shown signs of spring yet. I hope they are not dead, but just still sleeping. Another week or so and I should be able to tell.
I saw the really big gator yesterday, all shiny and black, resting on the bank of the lake and since a volunteer was cleaning out the canal at the weir, all the turtles were plastered on the grassy bank, including a big one! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
I look up to the mountains--
does my help come from there?
My help comes from the Lord,
who made the heavens and the 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 at 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.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
My Honeybell oranges came yesterday, and I was able to squeeze about four ounces of juice out of just two oranges. Yum! Fresh juice with pulp in it! Sunshine in a glass!
I walked around the house outside looking at the beauty berry bush and the crepe myrtle, neither of which has leaves, and wondering if the freeze we had killed them, or if they just haven't shown signs of spring yet. I hope they are not dead, but just still sleeping. Another week or so and I should be able to tell.
I saw the really big gator yesterday, all shiny and black, resting on the bank of the lake and since a volunteer was cleaning out the canal at the weir, all the turtles were plastered on the grassy bank, including a big one! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
I look up to the mountains--
does my help come from there?
My help comes from the Lord,
who made the heavens and the 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 at 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.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Who Rules?
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 a lot of clouds today and a lot of sun, with the wind blowing, so it looks like another warm day. Yesterday the temp. got up to 72, so spring is definitely just around the corner.
The gators seem to be on the move, also, so that means more babies in a few months. The really big gator has been sunning, right beside the smaller one, on the bank of the lake. Lots of people have discovered them, so cars are usually blocking the road, with people taking photos. I have to admit, even though I see gators several times a week, I am still fascinated by them. It just seems so unusual to have them only a mile away from my house. And then, on the other side of the road, a dozen or so turtles were flattened on the bank of the weir catching some rays. God is good!
I enjoyed a large naval orange with my breakfast and am expecting a shipment of honeybells any day. They are only available in Jan. and I already had some as a gift from my niece. I liked them so much I ordered another shipment for me and for Daryl. Sunshine with skin!
From the little devotional book Knowing God:
Can you understand the secrets of God?
His limits are higher than the heavens; you cannot reach them!
They are deeper than the grave; you cannot understand them!
His limits are longer than the earth and wider than the sea.
Job 11:7-9 NCV
God reigns over the entire universe and He reigns over your little corner of the universe. He is sovereign. Your challenge is to recognize God's sovereignty and live in accordance with His commandments. Sometimes, of course, this is easier said than done.
Your Heavenly Father may not always reveal Himself as quickly (or as clearly) as you would like. But rest assured: God is in control. God is here, and God intends to use you in wonderful, unexpected ways. He desires to lead you along a path of His choosing. Your challenge is to watch, to listen, to learn...and to follow.
Knowing God's sovereignty and unconditional love imparts a beauty to life and to you.
Kay Arthur
The next time you're disappointed, don't panic. Don't give up. Just be patient and let God remind you he's still in control.
Max Lucado
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
The gators seem to be on the move, also, so that means more babies in a few months. The really big gator has been sunning, right beside the smaller one, on the bank of the lake. Lots of people have discovered them, so cars are usually blocking the road, with people taking photos. I have to admit, even though I see gators several times a week, I am still fascinated by them. It just seems so unusual to have them only a mile away from my house. And then, on the other side of the road, a dozen or so turtles were flattened on the bank of the weir catching some rays. God is good!
I enjoyed a large naval orange with my breakfast and am expecting a shipment of honeybells any day. They are only available in Jan. and I already had some as a gift from my niece. I liked them so much I ordered another shipment for me and for Daryl. Sunshine with skin!
From the little devotional book Knowing God:
Can you understand the secrets of God?
His limits are higher than the heavens; you cannot reach them!
They are deeper than the grave; you cannot understand them!
His limits are longer than the earth and wider than the sea.
Job 11:7-9 NCV
God reigns over the entire universe and He reigns over your little corner of the universe. He is sovereign. Your challenge is to recognize God's sovereignty and live in accordance with His commandments. Sometimes, of course, this is easier said than done.
Your Heavenly Father may not always reveal Himself as quickly (or as clearly) as you would like. But rest assured: God is in control. God is here, and God intends to use you in wonderful, unexpected ways. He desires to lead you along a path of His choosing. Your challenge is to watch, to listen, to learn...and to follow.
Knowing God's sovereignty and unconditional love imparts a beauty to life and to you.
Kay Arthur
The next time you're disappointed, don't panic. Don't give up. Just be patient and let God remind you he's still in control.
Max Lucado
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
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