Make Your Actions Conform to Your Beliefs

Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Another overcast morning with the promise of rain sometime today, but it is a little cooler as a result. I had forgotten to take my dumpster down to the curb last night, so I took it down this morning, because the pick-up had already gone down the other side of the street. So, by the time I hauled it down and came back, I was a little dewy on my forehead. It may be a little cooler, but it's still very humid!

I get a lot of joy out of watching the mockingbirds attack the berries on the podacarpus hedge next door. It's right outside my window, and they are the only birds that seem to like the berries. They land on the tips of the branches and sway back and forth, and then do all kinds of acrobatics to pull and twist the coveted berries off. They can even go through the thick branches and come out the other side. Seems like it would be a good place for a nest, with food all around.

Speaking of food, I made biscuits from the Red Lobster cheesy biscuit recipe that I have been meaning to make for a long time. They turned out really good. I don't usually make too many things like that because it's too much for just me. So I invited Brian over to get some, when he called later and he seemed happy to take fresh biscuits home.

I drove through the park after shopping, and my, how the weeds are growing from all the rain! But the ibis were dotting the sides of the canal with their whiteness and and a turtle and anhinga were drying out on the weir. I thought I had hit a squirrel once again...the silly things dash across the street so fast, it's no wonder they don't make it sometimes! But God is good!

From the little devotional book Knowing God:

Therefore by their fruits you will know them. Matthew 7:20 NKJV
English clergyman Thomas Fuller observed, "He does not believe who does not live according to his beliefs." These words are most certainly true. We may proclaim our beliefs to our hearts' content, but our proclamations will mean nothing-to others or to ourselves-unless we accompany our words with deeds that match. The sermons that we live are far more compelling than the ones we preach.

Like it or not, your life is an accurate reflection of your creed. If this fact gives you some cause for concern, don't bother talking about the changes that you intend to make-make them. And then, when your good deeds speak for themselves-as they most certainly will-don't interrupt.

                                                   -Great Thoughts-
What you do reveals what you believe about God, regardless of what you say. When God reveals what He has purposed to do, you face a crisis-a decision time. God and the world can tell from your response what you really believe about God.
  Henry Blackaby

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

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

The Power of Forgiveness

Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! As I was having my prayer time, it suddenly grew dark, and I thought for sure, there was rain coming, but after while the cloud moved away. But it is still overcast, which is nice for a change from all the sunshine.

I spent most of yesterday doing little chores around the house, but still have lots to do. I did get to the park, however, and walked out on the bridge, watching the fast moving current flow underneath  and then moved to the far end, and spied the little gator hanging among the lily pads. He seems to like to be at the entrance bridge. There was a turtle sitting on the dead log very near the gator, but they were co-existing peacefully. Then I walked to the butterfly garden and lots of colorful ones were flitting about  enjoying the flowers. Such a peaceful place. God is good!

From the devotion book Quiet Moments with God:
 
"If you forgive men when they sin against you, Your heavenly father will also forgive you." Matthew 6:14
Unforgiveness is a destructive and insidious force, having more effect of the one who is unforgiving than on the unforgiven. A great example of this was an experience of one of the outstanding intellects of all history, Leonardo da Vinci.

Just before he commenced work on his depiction of the Last Supper, he had a violent quarrel with a fellow painter. Leonardo was so enraged and bitter, he determined to use the face of his enemy as the face of Judas, thus taking his revenge by handing the man down to succeeding generations in infamy and scorn.

The face of Judas was, therefore, one of the first that he finished, and everyone readily recognized it as the face of the painter with whom he had quarreled.

However, when he attempted to paint the face of Jesus Christ, Leonardo could make no progress. Something seemed to be baffling him--holding him back and frustrating his efforts. At length, he came to the conclusion that what was hindering and frustrating him was that he had painted his enemy into the face of Judas.

When he painted over the face of his enemy in the portrait of Judas, he commenced anew on the face of Jesus. This depiction became a success that has been acclaimed through the ages.

You cannot be painting the features of Jesus Christ into your own life and at the same time be painting another face with the colors of enmity and hatred.

If you are harboring unforgiveness and bitterness, forgive your offender, and put the situation in God's hands. Ask Him to cleanse you of those negative feelings and to release you from their bondage. As you forgive, you will be forgiven and set free to live your life with inner peace.

Forgiveness is man's deepest need and highest achievement.
    Horace Bushnell

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

Love and hugs
Amaryllis

Live on Purpose

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 overcast morning, which is good, and last night just before I went to bed after watching the Rays and Gators lose, I heard rain showering down. I didn't get up to look out, but it sounded pretty hard for a short time. God is making up for the dry May and half of June!

I had a tiring workout of walking in Target yesterday. I hardly ever shop at Target, so am not quite familiar with their lay-out. What I was looking for was paper goods, and a certain hand lotion, which they apparently do not carry.  Anyway, I walked from front to back, sideways, and up and down, and finally found a Khaki and red shirt clad employee who directed me back to the front left. Sheesh! I should have gone to familiar Walmart! As I checked out, a big clap of thunder sounded and when I walked out  lightning was flashing! I thought I would have to drive home in a big rainstorm, but nothing happened. All sound and fury, but no rain drops.

I saw a beautiful white egret at the park, fishing, and on the way out, a park worker had stopped his truck just at the intersection, to get out and rescue a large soft-shelled turtle, who was way out of his territory in the middle of the street. Some construction workers were just standing, looking at it, Probably not willing to touch its algae covered back, but the worker had gloves which he pulled on so he could pick it up and not get snapped at. God is good!

From the little devotional book Knowing God:

God chose you to be his people, so I urge you now to live the life to which God called you. Ephesians 4:1 NCV
Life is best lived on purpose. And purpose, like everything else in the universe, begins with God. Whether you realize it or not, God has a plan for your life, a divine calling, a direction in which He is leading you. When you welcome God into your heart and establish a genuine relationship with Him, He will begin, in time, to make His purposes known. 

Sometimes, God's intentions will be clear to you; other times, God's plan will seem uncertain at best. But even on those difficult days when you are unsure which way to turn, you must never lose sight of these overriding facts: God created  you for a reason; He has important work for you to do; and He's waiting patiently for you to do it.
And the next step is up to you.

                                                -Great Thoughts-
In the very place where God has put us, whatever its limitations, whatever kind of work it may be, we may indeed serve the Lord Christ.                                
                                                 Elisabeth Elliott

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

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

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! We certainly had some good soaking rain yesterday and Saturday! Just what we needed! God always supplies our needs in His time. I was escorted to my van after church by Andrew Logue, covering me with a large umbrella, since I left mine in the car , hoping that it would not rain before I came out. A much appreciated kindness!

I drove through the park in the rain, not expecting to see anyone there, but to my surprise, about five cars were parked and empty, so I assumed some people were walking and enjoying the rain. Unfortunately, lots more trash has washed down from the canal in back of the houses, and is piled up against the weir. The water was almost running over the weir when I was there. One lone anhinga was huddled on a board sticking up from the water.

Friday, when I was coming home from shopping, I saw that the workers on the school had quit on account of the rain, so I circled around because the gates were open and looked at all the work they have done. Much has been done and the buildings are up and roofed, but so much more needs doing, that I doubt it will be finished by fall. It will be huge when done. When we first moved into this area, the school was just finished and there were no paved roads leading up to it..just shell. But that was about 50 years ago! Wow! What a lot of changes! 
 
I also saw my favorite, the roseate spoonbill pecking along in the lake, ignoring the rain. How beautiful! God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Psalm 121: 2-8  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.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.

How does the Lord protect me?

Exodus 14: 13-14 Moses told the people, "Don't be afraid. Just stand where you are and watch the Lord rescue you. The Egyptians that you see today will never be seen again. The Lord himself will fight for you. You won't have to lift a finger in your defense!"

2 Chronicles 20:12,15,17,20 "O our God, won't you stop them? We are powerless against this mighty army  that is about to attack us. We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help"...He said, "Listen, King Jehoshaphat! Listen all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the Lord says; do not be afraid! Don't be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God's...You will not even need to fight. Take your positions; then stand still and watch the Lord's victory. He is with you, O people of Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid or discouraged. God out there tomorrow, for the Lord is with you!"...Early the next morning the army of Judah went out into the wilderness of Tekoa. On the way Jehoshaphat stopped and said, 

"Listen to me, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Believe in the Lord your God, and you will be able to stand firm. Believe in his prophets, and you will succeed." 
When enemies come against us, they really come against the Lord. We are continually reminded that victory is assured when we let the Lord fight our battles. He can turn our enemies against each other so that they destroy themselves while we walk away unscathed.

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

Love and hugs, Amaryllis

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! The promise of rain this afternoon sounds good to me for this afternoon. We will see if it really happens. Also, the prediction of temps of 92 today is one I really believe! Thank God for A/C! I count this as one of my blessings!

We had a cloudy, afternoon yesterday and later in the day, I decided maybe it was a good time to go to the park and take a short walk. So I did, and there was the young gator in the same spot at the shelter at the entrance bridge. I stood and watched him lazily swim a short distance and a family came with a little girl who was very shrill in her excitement at seeing him. From watching large Mama gators through the years, I have come to the conclusion that the gators don't like the noise of loud voices, just from their reactions. I don't really know if they can hear or even if they have ears, but they just appear uneasy to me. But then, I'm no expert, just an observer.

I also enjoyed the beauty of seeing a few egrets along the canal and a small flock of ibis, busily pecking. There was an egret with neck stretched as far as it could go, under the willow tree right by the canal. Maybe looking for a lizard...It all looked like a calendar photo of Florida! God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

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.

How does the promise of blessing affect us when we are weary or discouraged?
 
1 Corinthians 15:57-58 How we thank God, who gives us victory over sin and death through Jesus Christ our Lord! So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and steady, always enthusiastic about the Lord's work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.

Galatians 6:9 Don't get tired of doing what is good. Don't get discouraged and give up, for we will reap a harvest of blessing at the appropriate time.
 
When we are tempted to give up, new resolve comes from remembering that God promises to bring a harvest in his perfect time.

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

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Make the most of whatever comes

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 am a little late this morning, because Dave came early to mow as I was in the middle of my prayer list.

I was telling him that I saw a young gator just off the bridge yesterday, and he said that Mama was back in her original hole and that people were already bothering her by breaking off branches and trying to poke her. Dave said they will probably have to gate it off if that keeps up. Trouble is..there is no one around all the time, now, to keep watch. The rangers, like Dave, have several parks to patrol during the day, and can't always be where they are needed. As long as the economy is what it is, the situation won't be remedied any time soon.

But, today the breeze is blowing and it is a beautiful day. A mockingbird was perched on the edge of the roof while we were talking and looked like she was asking us where her babies were. Of course, they were the ones that fell or were pushed out of the nest over the past two weeks. 
 
The birds have really been enjoying the bowl of water I have on the porch. They get in it and splash it all over taking baths. They are really looking for water since we have not had rain for a long while. But God is good!

From the little book of devotions; Knowing God:

A man's heart plans his way, but the Lord determines his steps. Proverbs 16:9 HCSB

Sometimes, we must accept life on its terms, not our own. When events transpire that are beyond our control, we have a choice: we can either learn the art of acceptance, or we can make ourselves miserable as we struggle to change the unchangeable.

We must entrust the things we cannot change to God. Once we have done so, we can  prayerfully and faithfully tackle the important work that He has placed before us: doing something about the things we can change... and doing it sooner rather later.

So if you've encountered unfortunate circumstances that are beyond your power to control, accept those circumstances... and trust God. When you do, you can be comforted in the knowledge that your Creator is both loving and wise, and that He understands His plans perfectly, even when you do not.

                               -Great Thoughts-

Acceptance is taking from God's hand absolutely anything He gives, looking into His face in trust and thanksgiving, knowing that the confinement of the situation we're in is good and for His glory.
                                                                                      Charles Swindoll

Do all the good you can. By all the means you can. In all the ways you can. In all the places you can. At all the times you can. To all the people you can. As long as ever you can.
                                                                                       John Wesley

                                                       -Today's Prayer-

Dear Lord, let me live in the present, not the past. Let me focus on my blessings, not my sorrows. Give me the wisdom to be thankful for the gifts that I do have, and not bitter about the things that I don't have. Let me accept what was, let me give thanks for what is, and let me have faith in what most surely will be: the promise of eternal life with You. 
Amen

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

Love and hugs, Amaryllis          

Decisions

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! Happy first day of summer! Ha. As is we haven't been having summer weather for a good while! Well, now it's official. Ho, hum. another very warm day in paradise!

We had  a fun meeting last night with our Faith Group, with eating, fellowship and ending with prayers. It's nice to have monthly meetings and see and hear what is going on in others lives. Some difficulties, some joys, and some glimpses of God working in our lives to prepare us for eternity.

I went shopping at Publix yesterday to get some groceries I needed and took some coupons which the cashiers always ask me for, unlike some other stores. I couldn't find a particular brand of cracker and told the cashier when she asked, and she sent one of the stock men to get it for me. Sometimes I look and look and just can't see...Also, I saw four or five soldiers come in and met one as I was leaving. He was picking up a basket because his hands were full, so I smiled at him and thanked him for what he was doing. He was very young and he thanked me and we went our separate ways. I have often wanted to do that, but that time God prompted me to do it. I am not usually that bold, but I felt good afterward.

Then I went to the Park, and almost stopped for a squirrely squirrel that dashed in front of me. They get so bold in their racing across the road!  There were quite a few people out, considering the heat and one young woman was skating pretty fast on her inline skates. More power to her! I only saw one anhinga, and no other animals or birds. But God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

What do we do when we don't know what to do?
 
Proverbs 3:5-7 trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your paths. Don't be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead fear the Lord and turn your back on evil.
 
Trust the Lord to direct your steps, even when the way is confusing. God will guide you.

If you need wisdom--if you want to know what God wants you to do--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.
 
Some people fear that they are bothering God with their problems. Nothing could be further from the truth. God is looking for ways to help us because he loves us. Our commitment to him releases his resources for us.
 
When we are overwhelmed, confused, or uncertain, we should not hesitate to pray. In fact, these are the best times to pray because the Holy Spirit can then help us the most. We describe our situation and trust God to provide the solution.

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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

1 Thessalonians 5

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 sunshiny day is in store for us, and as I swept off the porch, I was thinking that it is a good day for VBS which starts today at church. I just imagine lots of children and helpers are filling the church right now...

As I came by Lynch lake yesterday I saw a hawk perched on the wire looking over the  water with his sharp eyes on anything that moves, especially small ducks, I'm thinking. I went to the park later last evening and lots of people were there, with children and just those out for an after dinner stroll.  Lots of people were looking over the bridge, where the canal is choking with hydrilla.  Don't know if it was a turtle or gator they were looking at.

I am looking forward to tonight's get-together with our Faith Group cook-out after a month's layoff. God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

1 Thessalonians 5 : 12-24

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 peaceably with each other.

Brother and sisters, we urge you to warn those who are lazy. Encourage those who are timid. Take tender of those who are weak. Be patient with everyone.

See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to everyone else.

Always be joyful. Keep on praying. No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

Do not stifle the Holy Spirit. Do not scoff at prophecies, but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good. Keep away from every kind of evil.

Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until that day when our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. God, who calls you, is faithful, he will do this.

Dear Brothers and sisters, pray for us.
Greet all the brothers and sisters in Christian love.

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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Paul's Prayer for Spiritual Empowering

Good morning , Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Even though the day looks bright, still the sky is hazy and the weather report is that the air is stagnant and not good for those with breathing problems. This is from all the wildfires in GA. and FL., with the pressure holding the smoke down instead of it going off into the atmosphere. At least, that's the way my untrained mind sees it.

Well, Dave, the yard man and friend,, came in the afternoon, instead of morning, after dealing with personal business with a lawyer in the morning. The heat index was so high, I was kind of worried about him working in the yard, but there is lots of shade, so it wasn't too unbearable for him. He brought Subway sandwiches, because he owed me a picnic. I had taken sandwiches over to Sawgrass Park, several months ago, and we had an outdoor lunch there before it got too warm, so we ate in air conditioned comfort, and then he got to work. I prayed for our meal, even though he is not a believer. I think he is an agnostic, but I keep praying for him and his family.

 He does a lot of little jobs for me and I appreciate that.

My plumbago is now blooming with pretty blue flowers on it and it looks really nice. And, as I said, a couple weeks ago, the Beauty Berry bush is about to have berries.

I almost forgot, I found another dead baby bird in the same spot in front of the garage as the other two last month. It must have blown out of the nest in the storm night before last. Funny thing is, there is no nest directly above, so it's a mystery how  it got where it was. Anyway, Dave disposed of it for me. Poor little thing. I think it was a mocker. But God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Ephesians 3:14-21
When I think of the wisdom and scope of God's plan, I fall to my knees and pray to the Father, the Creator of everything in heaven and on earth. I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will give you mighty inner strength through his Holy Spirit. And I pray that Christ will be more and more at home in your hearts as you trust in him. May your roots go down deep into the soil of God's marvelous love. And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love really is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is so great that you will never fully understand it. Then you will be filled with the fullness of life and power that comes from God.

Now glory be to God! By his mighty power at work within us, he is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope. May he be given glory in the church and in Christ Jesus forever and ever through endless ages.
Amen

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

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis     Happy Father's day to all you dads out there! Enjoy your family!

1 Corinthians

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 brief storm we had last night! Just as I climbed into bed, I thought a prayer for rain and five minutes later, I thought I heard thunder in the distance. then it got louder and along came the lightning, so brilliant through the drapes that I covered my eyes with the sheet. I didn't hear any rain, though, even though the crashes sounded right over the house. So, when I got up this morning   I looked out and could see a small patch of moisture on the porch and my poinsettia plant was blown over, with some large twigs in the yard. So the storm was pretty fierce, but not much rain with it.  Well, God did answer prayer, so He is still in control of the elements!

I returned some things yesterday  that I had shopped for Tuesday, and then came home and vacuumed and tried to drink lots of water and stay cool. The heat index was 102 and that is hot!! When I went to the park later on, I saw a man, who must be living in his car, which looks like a fairly late model nice vehicle,unloading a lot of bags onto a picnic table under a pine tree. I have seen him there before and wondered about him. The car is packed full front and back with bags, that's why I think he is living in it...makes me thankful for God's provision. There weren't a lot of people out, I think because of the heat, but it is always peaceful in the park .God is good!

1 Corinthians 3:5... NLT

Who is Apollos and who is Paul, that we should be the cause of such quarrels? Why, we're only  servants . Through us God caused you to believe. Each of us did the work the Lord gave us. My job was to plant the seed in your hearts and Apollos watered it, but it was God, not we, who made it grow. 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 ....But there is going to come a time of testing  at the judgement 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 flames....
So don't take pride in following a particular leader. Everything belongs to you. Paul and Apollos and Peter; the whole world and life and death; the present and the future. Everything belongs to you, and you belong to Christ and Christ belongs to God.

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

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

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! Another hazy morning, but warm and probably sunshine before long. The wind is blowing, so at least, there is air stirring. The A/C just keeps pumping out the cool air, and that is fine with me!

I did a little shopping yesterday, and was glad for the exercise. Then I went to the park and saw a few more people than I expected, but it was later in the day. Babies in strollers with Mom getting exercise pushing, and more people walking dogs. I had to wait for a flock of ibis to cross the street, and, of course, the squirrels were busy racing back and forth. God 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 111:10 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 that an all powerful, all-knowing God has designed a moral universe with consequences for our good and evil choices. Wisdom begins with 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 foot 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's right. More than that, wisdom is choosing to apply God's truth and principles to our daily relationships and situations.

Proverbs 9:11-12 Wisdom will multiply your days and add years to your life. If you become wise, you will be the one to benefit. If you scorn wisdom, you will be the one to suffer.

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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

The Stranger's Voice

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 day much like yesterday, except the sky is rather hazy  today and there is a good, warm breeze blowing.

Yesterday, as I rounded Lynch Lake, I saw a roseate spoonbill, (my favorite), a woodstork, and moorhens and a couple other water fowl. I am always so excited when I see a spoonbill...their colors are so beautiful, and they are not even aware of it! The peacock may strut his colors and flaunt them with a spread tail, but I think the pink is just beautiful!

I stopped at the weir gate as I was driving out of the park later on, just to watch a huge hawk, sitting on the ground. I looked at him and he cocked his head and looked at me, turning his head and just watching. Don't you know, I totally forgot I had my camera in the van so I didn't get a photo of him! He had fuzzy legs, so when I got home I looked up hawks in the Peterson guidebook, but I am still puzzzled as to what kind of hawk he was. He took off for a nearby tree so I could see a tremendous wingspan. He wasn't very pretty, but he was big! God is good!

From Quiet Moments with God:

When the morning was now come, Jesus stood on the shore: But the disciples knew not that it was Jesus.
John 21:4 KJV

Some years ago at a resort area along the East Coast, a small community was having an open town meeting about some financial problems they were facing. Among the two dozen or more in attendance was one man no one recognized--a visitor who had apparently dropped in for the meeting. The discussion focused on the desperate state of the town's coffers and on possible ways to raise funds.

During the discussion, the stranger attempted several times to make a comment about various projects being considered, but each time he was interrupted. Eventually, he quit trying and left the hall.

Just as the unknown visitor exited, someone arriving late came into the hall. Out of breath from hurrying, the latecomer asked," What was he doing here? Is he going to help us?"

The rest asked, "Who are you talking about?"

He said, "You mean you don't know? That was John D. Rockefeller who just left the hall. His yacht is in our harbor. Didn't you get his help?"

In despair someone replied, "No, we didn't get his help. We didn't know who he was."

This true story illustrates two key points:

1. Good manners will always have their rewards and rudeness its price.

2. We may become so busy trying to find the solution to a problem that we drown out the voice of the Master who has all solutions among His vast resources.

When you are faced with a difficult problem, listen first to what Jesus says to you. No other opinion or solutiion can ever yield more positive results than His!

A problem is an opportunity to prove God.
Bertha Munro

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

Love and hugs, Amaryllis

Landscapes

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 went out to rescue the dumpster and pull it back up the driveway, it was very warm and humid already. I have a feeling it will not get better as the day goes on, but this is my city and I think of the days when I was growing up and no one had  A/C. We used to go to the movies to get cool. For a dime admission, we got a double feature, a cliff hanger, cartoon, and newsreel. Those were the days!

I accomplished some goals over the weekend...Brian came over and took down some sheers, so I could wash them, and then came back so they could be hung back up. Nice to have clean curtains! I also did some more closet cleaning out. Next to tackle all the drawers that are overcrowded with keepsakes and stuff. Maybe in my lifetime that is left, I will get that done!

The subject today is "Landscapes" and I have been admiring the lawns in my neighborhood that always have flowers, and are well groomed. Obviously, the owners love working outside and cultivating beauty, and it pays off! I used to do that, but am not able to do that any more.

I noticed the gnarly, twisted limbs of the oak trees at the park and the gray, hanging moss swaying in the breeze yesterday. Not much is blooming this time of year, except the butterfly bushes. Speaking of that. my beauty berry bush is just about to have lots of purple berries on it. The birds love that! That's how it started; from a seed a bird dropped, and now it is really big. God is good!

From Quiet Moments with God:

My beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.
1 Corinthians 15:58 NASB

The landscapes around a home are usually very personal and reflect the individual taste of the homeowners. Making the outside reflect the owner is a unique talent landscape architects and novice gardeners have in common. Their work is so admired that friends and neighbors drive by, take pictures, and try to copy what these talented landscape artists create.

Landscaping is indeed an art, but it is also much more. These eye-catching scenes say something about the owner. They express the preferences of the owner, giving insight into what is appreciated and worth all the effort to create.

Most gardeners will tell you that even though they love gardening, it's still work. It involves investing money, time, and hard work to create the desired results. For the first year or two, a well-landscaped yard requires just about as much work as a new baby does. But, if you are willing to follow the directions, invest in the necessary materials, feed and water the garden plants, and battle the weeds, you can expect a lovely garden. It takes preparation and commitment--and a lot of hard work.
 
The way we live our physical lives also expresses who we are and what we appreciate. It takes preparation, the nourishment of the Word, and constant attention to the weeds in our daily lives in order to create a beautiful and satisfying spiritual landscape.

One thorn of experience is worth a whole wilderness of warning.
James Russell Lowell

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

Discouraged?

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 heard thunder close by last night, but while it rained enough to rain out the SPHS graduation, we did not get any around here. Although I did pray for rain, I did not tell God where to direct it. Guess I had better be more specific!

Dave, my yard man, was over yesterday morning, and got the rest of the podocarpus trimmed, so that's done for another year. Now, he will start on the fence which is falling down in a section in the back yard. There is always something to do around the house. I guess painting room by room is next!
 
After Dave left, I did some more cleaning out of my closet. Got half done, now on to the other end. I read that if you want something new, go shopping in your closet. This is true, as I find things I had not worn in years! So the old becomes new. But I still have not found my Deal's Gap shirt that I bought last Oct. when I was in TN. It has to be someplace!

When I tired of cleaning out, I took a drive to the park, and was surprised to see so many patrons  visiting, even though it was hot. The usual anhingas were drying out and a great white egret was fishing intently, but otherwise, all was quiet and peaceful. God is good!

From the little devotional book, Knowing God

Do not be afraid or discouraged.
For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
                                        Joshua 1:9 NLT
Even the most devout Christians can become discouraged, and you are no exception. After all, you live in a world where expectations can be high and demands can be even higher.

If you find yourself enduring difficult circumstances, don't lose hope. If you face uncertainties about the future, don't become anxious. And if you become discouraged with the direction of your day or your life, don't despair. Instead, lift your thoughts and prayers to your Heavenly Father. He is a God of possiblility, not negativity. You can be sure that He will guide you through your difficulties and beyond them...far beyond.

So here's the moral to the story: God is always with you. He's going to protect you, and because He is always faithful, you can live courageously today and every day of your life.

                                     -
-Great Thoughts-

The most profane word we use is "hopeless". When you say a situation or person is hopeless, you are slamming the door in the face of God.
                           Kathy  Trocccoli

It is impossible for that man to despair who remembers that his helper is omnipotent.
                           Jeremy Taylor

                           -Today's Prayer-
Dear Lord, when I am discouraged, give me perspective and faith. When I am weak, give me strength. When I am fearful, give me courage for the day ahead. I will trust in Your promises, Father, and I will live with the assurance that You are with me not only for this day, but also throughoiut all eternity. Amen

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

Love and hugs, Amaryllis

Wisdom from Proverbs

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 sunny, dry day, so I am praying for rain, since my pump is worn out, so I can't sprinkle with well water, and I will not use city water. Well, God always takes care of my needs, so I wait and depend on Him.

I took the van in for an oil change yesterday morning, reading a little more of my Jan Karon book while I waited and then went to Walmart for gas. I was pleased to see that it had gone down again. Still too high, but every little downward spiral helps. I drove into the park on the way back and saw several anhingas drying out around the weir and a great, gray heron standing in the canal. No sign of the moorhen family... Squirrels can be so cute, pesky sometimes, but curious. One of them was almost sitting on a wheelchair ramp that was on the pavement in back of a car. He was standing up and looking very much like he wanted to ask someone what that thing was. They climb under cars and up on the tires, checking out everything.

I started typing my devotional after I got home, but as I was in the middle of the scripture, something happened and it all disappeared! I must have hit a wrong key, but by that time, it was later in the morning, so I gave up, even though I was writing about "persistence". :o) So much for paying attention to what I write.. But God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Proverbs 2:1-11

My child, listen to me and treasure my instructions. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight and understanding. Search for them as you would for lost money or hidden treasure. Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God. For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He grants a treasure of good sense to the godly. He is their shield, protecting those who walk with integrity. He guards the paths of justice and protects those who are faithful to him.  Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair, and you will know how to find the right course of action every time. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy. Wise planning will watch over you. Understanding will keep you safe.

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

Love and hugs, Amaryllis

Humility

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 warm, sunshiny day but maybe some rain soon, I hope.  Yesterday I did not get out much, but tackled a project that has been neglected for too long. I cleaned out my t-shirt drawer and found shirts that had been in there since 1997..souvenirs from CHIC '97 and trips to Nantahala in NC, CO, and WA. I had a shirt from Sequim, WA, the irrigation festival. Their rainfall is so scarce they have a festival each year to celebrate irrigating! We had visited there when nephew, Russ, was Police Chief of the town. While there, we took a trip on the ferry to British Columbia, and enjoyed a day touring the city, and then going to Butchart Gardens! Unforgettable! It was a good time!

Souvenirs are nice, but I have my memories that don't take up so much space...just in my brain!
This morning when I looked out the window, I saw the ibis already working for their food in the yard. The mockingbirds have also been busy, singing very loudly most of the day. I watched a squirrel taking a drink from the bowl I keep on the porch wall, and since his head was stuck in so far, I knew the water was low, so later, after something else knocked it over, I filled it up again. Even the animals get thirsty these days!

I saw a great grey heron in the park almost disguised so he was very hard to see against the mud, and a anhinga drying out, and sitting very still. Some people were hanging over the bridge looking down, so there may have been a gator going underneath, or just resting. God is good!

 From the Promise Bible NLT:
 
How does humility help me confront sin and evil?

James 4:6-10 He gives us more and more strength to stand against such evil desires. As the Scriptures say,  "God sets himself against the proud, but he shows favor to the humble." So humble yourselves before God, resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw close to God, and God will draw close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, you hypocrites. Let there be tears for the wrong things you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy. When you bow down before the Lord and admit your dependence on him, he will lift you up and give you honor.
 
Pride gives the devil a key to our lives. Humility changes the lock and gives God the key. Humility comes from a godly sorrow for sin. We openly admit that we need God and seek his forgiveness. No proud person can do this.

1 Peter 5:6-7 Humble yourselves undeer the mighty power of God, and in his good time he will honor you. Give all yur worries and cares to God, for he cares about what happens to you.

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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Philippians 4:4-9

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 air is cooler today and I should be out walking, instead of inside, typing. One is good for the body and the other is good for the spirit, so I made a choice.

I had a busy weekend, with a shopping spree with Mari, which included a slice of pizza, shopping off calories, and ending with a D"Lite cone. We had a good time but I was pretty tired by the time we finished up. She has boundless energy and I don't. But I did get to the park and saw some of my favorite critters...anhingas, the little moorhen family. a woodstork, and the usual majestic egrets! Life is good and so is God!

A letter from Paul:

Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again---rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon.

Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he 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.
 
And now, dear brothers and sisters, let me say one more thing as I close this letter. Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and lovely and admirable. think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned from me and heard from me and saw me doing, and the God of peace will be with you.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs, Amaryllis

Psoaring thru Psalm 98

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! Sunny and warm {hot} again today, but this is June, so crank up the A/C and think of winter, :o)

I had a kinda mixed up day yesterday. I had an appointment at 11, so I had told Dave, I would be gone at 10:30,  He was kind enough to come early to be finished with the yard and trimming before I had to leave, which he did. I also told my cleaning ladies I might be late getting home, so told them where to find the key and left a check for them. That much was good, but at 11:06 Mari called and told me I had an app't for eleven! I had had four phone calls, one of which was a scam, and then talked with Dave, and just totally forgot I was to leave at 10:30. Well, Mari was very forgiving, and worked me in between her other clients, Sure enough, before I got home the girls had cleaned and were just finishing up, so everything worked out all right. Whew!

After returning an item to a store, I took a breather to go to the park, and saw a gator hiding in the brush by the lake, and further down the canal a woodstork looking at the water. It was very hot, so not many people were out. On the way back out, a big soft shelled turtle was right in the middle of the road, and did not seem in a hurry to cross, so I carefully drove around him. I would have stopped and moved a gopher tortoise, but I don't trust the wet snappers! 

BTW, Brian called this morning and told me Tim Tebow would be on Fox News live in just ten minutes, so I got to watch him plug his new book. Seems like those news people compete to talk fast and interrupt the interviewee before he can finish what he is going to say. But, as usual, Tim spoke up for his faith and gave a good testimony. God is good!

Psalm 98 NLT

Sing a new song to the Lord, for he has done wonderful deeds.
He has won a mighty victory by his power and holiness.
The Lord has announced his victory and has revealed his righteousness to every nation!
He has remembered his promise to love and be faithful to Israel.
The whole earth has seen the salvation of our God.

Shout to the Lord, all the earth; break out in praise  and sing for joy!
Sing your praise to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and melodious song, with trumpets and the sound of the ram's horn.
Make a joyful symphony before the Lord, the King!

Let the sea and everything in it shout his praise!
Let the earth and all living things join in.
Let the rivers clap their hands in glee!
Let the hills sing out their songs of joy before the Lord,
For the Lord is coming to judge the earth.
He will judge the world with justice, and the nations with fairness.

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

Love and hugs, Amaryllis

A warning

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! Looks like the Lord blessed us with rain yesterday, but up in North Florida the temps were over a hundred! But this morning it is nice and cool with a good breeze blowing.

I can hear the noise of the trimmer as Dave, the yard man, is working on the hedge. He does a good job and cleans up well. He just has the back hedge to do now, and then he is finished with that. He has already mowed, edged and blown, because today is a busy one for me.

Yesterday, I attended the services for a good friend who passed away from Alzheimers, and the downpour and thunderstorm came during the service. Then afterwards, it was still raining, but another friend walked me to my van under his umbrella, after walking his passengers to his car and while his wife was waiting for him to cover her for her walk to the car. I am so blessed with caring people in my life!

I took a drive in the park after the rain, and everything looked so washed and green. I watched an egret, brilliant white against the green and dark mud, but only a couple cars were in the park. We really needed the rain. God is good!

Malachi 41-6 NLT:

The Lord Almighty says,"The day of judgment is coming, burning like a furnace. The arrogant and the wicked will be burned up like straw on that day. They will be consumed like a tree--roots and all.

But for you who fear my name, the Sun of righteousness will rise with healing in his wings.
And you will go free, leaping with joy like calves let out to pasture.

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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Fulfillment

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! Happy June First! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! It is still sunny with the smell of smoke in the air from all the forest fires in the state, but there is a chance of rain today, so I am hoping God is kind to us and will send the rain we really need.

I always am blessed by good friends and yesterday had a double blessing...Terry came over in the morning to fix a leaky faucet outside, and then I was ready to go to my other friends' house for a delightful lunch and conversation. We had not done that in a long time, so it is always good to catch up with each others' lives and to see how God is working to give us whatever we need to handle challenges in personal situations and the reaching out to those who are unsaved.

I went to the park, and very few people were there. It was a very hot day, so I think that had something to do with the lack of walkers. Of course, there are always people walking their dogs, but most carry bottles of water. I saw a great, blue heron looking for lunch, squirrels racing across the road, and a black snake when Terry was working on the faucet. The snake was hiding in a curled up hose, and slithered out when it got a little wet. I think it was a black racer, but he went over to the neighbor's house. Didn't like water, I guess!
But God is good!

From the book Quiet Moments with God devotional:

"I have come that they might have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." John 10:10 NKJV
Fulfillment is something for which every person seems to long for. In its simplest meaning, fulfillment refers to being "fully filled"-having a complete sense of accomplishment.

If you lack a sense of fulfillment at day's end, ask yourself, What did I not do that I felt I should have done? You'll be calling into question your values, priorities, and goals. As you see areas in which you have fallen short, ask the Lord to help you discipline yourself to achieve what you know is good, adjust your priorities and goals, and refine your values.

A lack of fulfillment isn't the fault of circumstances or another person's behavior. To experience fulfillment, your outer life must live in harmony with your inner life; you must live outwardly what you profess with your mouth and believe in your heart.

For Robert Louis Stevenson, this was the definition of a successful life:

That man is a success who has lived well, laughed often and loved much; who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of children; who has filled his niche and accomplished his tasks; who leaves the world better than he found it, whether by an improved poppy, a perfect poem, or a rescued soul; who never lacked appreciation of earth's beauty or failed to express it; who looked for the best in others and gave the best he had.

Do you have a definition of success against which to gauge your own sense of fulfillment?

There's still time to make today fulfilling. Take a moment to reflect upon your goals, priorities , and values. Ask the Lord to show you where they may need some adjusting. As you rethink these important issues, you will be filled with the knowledge that true fulfillment comes in simply knowing and obeying him.

You have made us for yourself and our hearts are restless until they rest in you.
    Saint Augustine of Hippo

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