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 kinda hoping that the rain would continue all day to keep the trick or treaters in, but maybe that's selfish on my part...I did not have a single one last year, I think because most of the little kids who used to live on the block have grown up or moved away. In the early days there used to be carloads from out of the neighborhood going door to door; we actually had over a hundred one year!. Well, I will leave my light off, anyway.
There were lots of people at the park yesterday, enjoying the sun and shade and walking for health and exercise. The young gator was hanging out at the bridge and people were pointing and taking pics of him. I did not see any ibis or herons, for some reason, but the squirrels were in abundance!
I watched a baby squirrel at the base of my oak tree yesterday, pluck a small toadstool and start nibbling on it, then took it in his mouth, and zoomed up the tree, following his mom. They are really cute. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ephesians 5:15
So be careful how you live, not as fools but as those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity for doing good in these evil days. Don't act thoughtlessly, but try to understand what the Lord wants you to do. Don't be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, let the Holy Spirit fill and control you. Then you will sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, making music to the Lord in your hearts. And you will always give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 6:6-9
Work hard, but not just to please your masters when they are watching. As slaves of Christ, do the will of God with all your heart. Work with enthusiasm, as though your were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free.
And in the same way, you masters must treat your slaves right. Don't threaten them;
remember, you both have the same Master in heaven, and he has no favorites.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs, Amaryllis
Monday, October 31, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
Roamin' thru Romans 13
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 we had a gently falling rain last night. Everything is freshly wet and water is still falling off the roof, but since we have not had rain for a few weeks, it is most welcome!
Yesterday, I ran a few errands, before tiring because of my very late night Wed. I drove to the park and was peacefully watching the swaying limbs and the ibis sitting in a tree. People were pointing and taking pictures of the young gator, and all was well. I saw an osprey perched on a line over Turner's creek, looking for lunch, so wildlife is everywhere!! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Romans 9-13
Don't just pretend that you love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Stand on the side of the good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy in your work, but serve the Lord enthusiastically.
Be glad for all God is planning for you. Be patient in trouble, and always be prayerful. When God's children are in need, be the one to help them out. And get into the habit of inviting guests home for dinner, or, if they need lodging, for the night.
If people persecute you because you are a Christian, don't curse them; pray that God will bless them. When others are happy, be happy with them. If they are sad, share their sorrow. Live in harmony with each other. Don't try to act important, but enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don't think you know it all!
Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do your part to live in peace with everyone, as much as possible.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday, I ran a few errands, before tiring because of my very late night Wed. I drove to the park and was peacefully watching the swaying limbs and the ibis sitting in a tree. People were pointing and taking pictures of the young gator, and all was well. I saw an osprey perched on a line over Turner's creek, looking for lunch, so wildlife is everywhere!! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Romans 9-13
Don't just pretend that you love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Stand on the side of the good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy in your work, but serve the Lord enthusiastically.
Be glad for all God is planning for you. Be patient in trouble, and always be prayerful. When God's children are in need, be the one to help them out. And get into the habit of inviting guests home for dinner, or, if they need lodging, for the night.
If people persecute you because you are a Christian, don't curse them; pray that God will bless them. When others are happy, be happy with them. If they are sad, share their sorrow. Live in harmony with each other. Don't try to act important, but enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don't think you know it all!
Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do your part to live in peace with everyone, as much as possible.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Jesus, Author of Salvation
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, but a few clouds and warmer than it has been. I threw off the big blanket, but then pulled it up sometime early this morning, when I got a little chilly. The prediction is for very cool coming sometime this weekend, but it usually does turn cool around Halloween. Speaking of that, I made the mistake of buying a bag of mini Twix bars supposedly for trick or treaters, but I seem to be making them disappear all by myself. I knew I should have bought something I don't like!!
The subject today does not have anything to do with the scripture. That song has been going over and over in my mind, since last night when I heard it at the Michael W. Smith/Amy Grant concert. We all sang along with them and I can't get it out of my head. I had forgotten that those concerts are very loud, and at one point, I removed my hearing aids. However, the amplification was up so high that even Brian could not understand the lyrics of some of the songs. It was better when Michael came on with his half of the show, because the electronic keyboard was his and he could be understood when he talked and sang. He is really gifted with songwriting and I enjoyed the music, and was glad I went. Cindy Plotts DiMarco was sitting in the same aisle...small world. But the auditorium was filled with lots of believers. I saw one baby there, probably about 2 to 3 months old and could not help thinking how damaging the loudness must be to her little ears.
I really like the song "He is Mighty to Save" the way our worship team arranges it, and especially Andrew's drumming. Two drummers were featured last night, both veterans with their own sets and I was fascinated with their skill. The concert lasted three hours, so I was very late getting home, but it was a good evening. My thanks to Brian. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ecclesiastes 3 A time for everything
There is a time for everything.
a season for every activity under heaven.
A time to be born and a time to die.
A time to plant and a time to harvest.
A time to kill and a time to heal.
A time to tear down and a time to rebuild.
A time to cry and a time to laugh.
A time to grieve and a time to dance.
A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones.
A time to embrace and a time to turn away.
A time to search and a time to lose.
A time to keep and a time to throw away.
A time to tear and a time to mend.
A time to be quiet and a time to speak up.
A time to love and a time to hate.
A time for war and a time for peace.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love,
Love and hugs
Amaryllis
The subject today does not have anything to do with the scripture. That song has been going over and over in my mind, since last night when I heard it at the Michael W. Smith/Amy Grant concert. We all sang along with them and I can't get it out of my head. I had forgotten that those concerts are very loud, and at one point, I removed my hearing aids. However, the amplification was up so high that even Brian could not understand the lyrics of some of the songs. It was better when Michael came on with his half of the show, because the electronic keyboard was his and he could be understood when he talked and sang. He is really gifted with songwriting and I enjoyed the music, and was glad I went. Cindy Plotts DiMarco was sitting in the same aisle...small world. But the auditorium was filled with lots of believers. I saw one baby there, probably about 2 to 3 months old and could not help thinking how damaging the loudness must be to her little ears.
I really like the song "He is Mighty to Save" the way our worship team arranges it, and especially Andrew's drumming. Two drummers were featured last night, both veterans with their own sets and I was fascinated with their skill. The concert lasted three hours, so I was very late getting home, but it was a good evening. My thanks to Brian. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ecclesiastes 3 A time for everything
There is a time for everything.
a season for every activity under heaven.
A time to be born and a time to die.
A time to plant and a time to harvest.
A time to kill and a time to heal.
A time to tear down and a time to rebuild.
A time to cry and a time to laugh.
A time to grieve and a time to dance.
A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones.
A time to embrace and a time to turn away.
A time to search and a time to lose.
A time to keep and a time to throw away.
A time to tear and a time to mend.
A time to be quiet and a time to speak up.
A time to love and a time to hate.
A time for war and a time for peace.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love,
Love and hugs
Amaryllis
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Psoaring thru Psalm 20
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 had such a string of perfect weather, but now it looks like we are in for a change, with cold weather bearing down on us and hurricane Lina pushing back from the gulf. Never a dull moment for the weatherman!
I went to the drivers' license place in Pinellas Park yesterday and waited in line, only to discover that I should have gone to the tax collector's office on 66th St. to conduct my business. So, because I was frustrated, I went to Steak and Shake and bought myself a refreshing mint/ cookies and cream milkshake for half price! Nice mood lifter! Then I went to the park and took a walk along the sidewalk, enjoying the cool breeze and calm waters of the canal. Saw the tendrils of moss blowing gently in the breeze, black turtles sunning on the old logs, and on the way in, the ibis once again, doing a slow motion dance of drinking at the same time and raising their heads all in unison
I am looking forward to attending the Michael W. Smith/Amy Grant concert tonight with Brian. And I am hoping Michael will sing one of my favorite songs, "Breathe". God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 20
In times of trouble, may the Lord respond to your cry.
May the God of Israel keep you safe from all harm.
May he send you help from his sanctuary and strengthen you from Jerusalem.
May he remember all your gifts and look favorably on your burnt offerings.
May he grant your heart's desire and fulfill all your plans.
May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory, flying banners to honor our God.
May the Lord answer all your prayers.
Now I know that the Lord saves his anointed king.
He will answer him from his holy heaven and rescue him by his great power.
Some nations boast of their armies and weapons, but we boast in the Lord our God.
Those nations will fall down and collapse, but we will rise up and stand firm.
Give victory to our king, O Lord!
Respond to our cry for help.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I went to the drivers' license place in Pinellas Park yesterday and waited in line, only to discover that I should have gone to the tax collector's office on 66th St. to conduct my business. So, because I was frustrated, I went to Steak and Shake and bought myself a refreshing mint/ cookies and cream milkshake for half price! Nice mood lifter! Then I went to the park and took a walk along the sidewalk, enjoying the cool breeze and calm waters of the canal. Saw the tendrils of moss blowing gently in the breeze, black turtles sunning on the old logs, and on the way in, the ibis once again, doing a slow motion dance of drinking at the same time and raising their heads all in unison
I am looking forward to attending the Michael W. Smith/Amy Grant concert tonight with Brian. And I am hoping Michael will sing one of my favorite songs, "Breathe". God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 20
In times of trouble, may the Lord respond to your cry.
May the God of Israel keep you safe from all harm.
May he send you help from his sanctuary and strengthen you from Jerusalem.
May he remember all your gifts and look favorably on your burnt offerings.
May he grant your heart's desire and fulfill all your plans.
May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory, flying banners to honor our God.
May the Lord answer all your prayers.
Now I know that the Lord saves his anointed king.
He will answer him from his holy heaven and rescue him by his great power.
Some nations boast of their armies and weapons, but we boast in the Lord our God.
Those nations will fall down and collapse, but we will rise up and stand firm.
Give victory to our king, O Lord!
Respond to our cry for help.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
In Progress
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 lies before us with blue skies and little wind, and temps in the low sixties. I am determined not to turn on the furnace until it gets much cooler...well, maybe not much cooler, but a little.
I was sweeping acorns off the sidewalk and porch yesterday, again, and watched the squirrels scampering up the oak trees and zipping along the branches. They have about three new nests and all the evidence is on the ground in the twigs and stuff . They must have a lot more than that on the ground at the park, but there is so much other stuff there, that a few more leaves are not unusual. More and more birds are coming from the north. I saw a huge flock of blackbirds, circling in the air at a busy intersection yesterday.
When I drove into the park, I saw a very unusual sight; a flock of ibis were standing in a row on the bank of the weir and all had their heads down and were drinking. Alongside them were a lot of black turtles. I should have taken a picture of them. The park was crowded, because it was such a nice day, and a class was waiting for the teacher to take them on a tour. Nice field trip! God is good!
From Quiet Moments with God:
He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 1:6 NKJV
A sign in a hotel lobby that was being remodeled stated, " Please be patient. Renovation in progress to produce something new and wonderful." Perhaps we all need to wear a sign like that! We are all unfinished projects under construction, being made into something wonderful. Being mindful of this, we might have greater grace and patience for others, as well as for ourselves, while the work is underway.
Hope is the anticipation of good. Like the hotel lobby in the disarray of renovation, our hope is often in spite of our present circumstances. What is the basis for our hope?
For the Christian, hope is not simple optimism or a denial of reality. The reason for our hope is Jesus Christ, the solid Rock of our faith. As the hymn writer wrote, "My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness.". We are never without hope for our lives if we know the Lord Jesus.
The focus of our hope is to be like Jesus. This goal may seem too great and way beyond our ability to achieve, and it is. So how do we reach it?
The Scriptures tell us it is "Christ in you" that is our hope. (See Colossians 1:27.) The transformation of our lives into Christlikeness is a goal that is larger than life. As Paul wrote to the Corinthians, to have hope only for this life is to be miserable. (See 1 Corinthians 15:19). The Christian hope if for this life and for eternity.
A little chapel in the hills of the Scottish Highlands has a sign chiseled in Gaelic on the front door. Translated into English it reads; "Come as you are, but don't leave as you came." When we come to Jesus, we can come as we are. But He will not leave us the same. That is our sure hope.
Our hope lies not in the man we put on the moon, But in the Man we put on the cross.
Don Basham
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I was sweeping acorns off the sidewalk and porch yesterday, again, and watched the squirrels scampering up the oak trees and zipping along the branches. They have about three new nests and all the evidence is on the ground in the twigs and stuff . They must have a lot more than that on the ground at the park, but there is so much other stuff there, that a few more leaves are not unusual. More and more birds are coming from the north. I saw a huge flock of blackbirds, circling in the air at a busy intersection yesterday.
When I drove into the park, I saw a very unusual sight; a flock of ibis were standing in a row on the bank of the weir and all had their heads down and were drinking. Alongside them were a lot of black turtles. I should have taken a picture of them. The park was crowded, because it was such a nice day, and a class was waiting for the teacher to take them on a tour. Nice field trip! God is good!
From Quiet Moments with God:
He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 1:6 NKJV
A sign in a hotel lobby that was being remodeled stated, " Please be patient. Renovation in progress to produce something new and wonderful." Perhaps we all need to wear a sign like that! We are all unfinished projects under construction, being made into something wonderful. Being mindful of this, we might have greater grace and patience for others, as well as for ourselves, while the work is underway.
Hope is the anticipation of good. Like the hotel lobby in the disarray of renovation, our hope is often in spite of our present circumstances. What is the basis for our hope?
For the Christian, hope is not simple optimism or a denial of reality. The reason for our hope is Jesus Christ, the solid Rock of our faith. As the hymn writer wrote, "My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness.". We are never without hope for our lives if we know the Lord Jesus.
The focus of our hope is to be like Jesus. This goal may seem too great and way beyond our ability to achieve, and it is. So how do we reach it?
The Scriptures tell us it is "Christ in you" that is our hope. (See Colossians 1:27.) The transformation of our lives into Christlikeness is a goal that is larger than life. As Paul wrote to the Corinthians, to have hope only for this life is to be miserable. (See 1 Corinthians 15:19). The Christian hope if for this life and for eternity.
A little chapel in the hills of the Scottish Highlands has a sign chiseled in Gaelic on the front door. Translated into English it reads; "Come as you are, but don't leave as you came." When we come to Jesus, we can come as we are. But He will not leave us the same. That is our sure hope.
Our hope lies not in the man we put on the moon, But in the Man we put on the cross.
Don Basham
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, October 24, 2011
Peter's 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 still have perfect weather with cool nights and warmer days.
Couldn't ask for anything much better.
It was a good day all around yesterday..good church service and Tim Tebow helping the Broncos to a win, and the Rangers coming back to win. I was kinda torn between the Cards and the Rangers, but leaning toward the Rangers. Oh, well, may the better team win!
There were water fowl in abundance at Lynch Lake yesterday as I drove around it! Black ducks, and white ibis, and standing in ankle deep water a gray and white woodstork. I guess they have ankles! When I went to the park Saturday, I saw a gopher in a different location on an access road. I remember when Mike, the naturalist showed me an aerial photo of the park, how many gopher tortoise homes were in it. They are all over the Park! The white heron was standing watch over the fish, and ibis were perched in the trees overlooking the water. All was peaceful! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
1 Peter 3:7
In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat her with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God's gift of new life. If you don't treat her as you should, your prayers will not be heard.
Finally, all of you should be of one mind, full of sympathy toward each other, loving one another with tender hearts and humble minds. Don't repay evil for evil. Don't retaliate when people say unkind things about you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God wants you to do, and he will bless you for it. For the Scriptures say,
If you want a happy life and good days, keep your tongue from speaking evil,
and keep your lips from telling lies.
Turn away from evil and do good.
Work hard at living at peace with others.
The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right,
and his ears are open to their prayers.
But the Lord turns his face against those who do evil.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs, Amaryllis
Couldn't ask for anything much better.
It was a good day all around yesterday..good church service and Tim Tebow helping the Broncos to a win, and the Rangers coming back to win. I was kinda torn between the Cards and the Rangers, but leaning toward the Rangers. Oh, well, may the better team win!
There were water fowl in abundance at Lynch Lake yesterday as I drove around it! Black ducks, and white ibis, and standing in ankle deep water a gray and white woodstork. I guess they have ankles! When I went to the park Saturday, I saw a gopher in a different location on an access road. I remember when Mike, the naturalist showed me an aerial photo of the park, how many gopher tortoise homes were in it. They are all over the Park! The white heron was standing watch over the fish, and ibis were perched in the trees overlooking the water. All was peaceful! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
1 Peter 3:7
In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat her with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God's gift of new life. If you don't treat her as you should, your prayers will not be heard.
Finally, all of you should be of one mind, full of sympathy toward each other, loving one another with tender hearts and humble minds. Don't repay evil for evil. Don't retaliate when people say unkind things about you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God wants you to do, and he will bless you for it. For the Scriptures say,
If you want a happy life and good days, keep your tongue from speaking evil,
and keep your lips from telling lies.
Turn away from evil and do good.
Work hard at living at peace with others.
The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right,
and his ears are open to their prayers.
But the Lord turns his face against those who do evil.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs, Amaryllis
Friday, October 21, 2011
Ready to Move Mountains?
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! Well, I got cold last night! I was up at midnight getting another blanket to put on the bed, so this morning when I finally crawled out, I put my winter blanket on, so I will be warm tonight in my flannel jammies! It's in the sixties outside and in, and while that may not seem cold to some of you in colder climates, it's a shock to me! But, I have to admit, the weather is beautiful!
Yesterday, I was really busy running errands. I took a good long walk in Walmart, because God opened up a close parking space almost in front of the door, otherwise, I was going to stop at the Walmart Neighorhood store further down the highway. So, after shopping in there for a while, I had to wait almost as long to check out, as it took me to shop. Sigh. They never have enough cashiers working to take care of the crowds!
After unloading my groceries at home and eating a sandwich, I headed out again to pick up my quilt from the cleaners and had a short delightful conversation with the clerk about the beauty of the Amish quilt. Then on to NE shopping center where the shop where I stopped had lovely chocolates right at the cashier station, of course, so I just had to buy a large choc. turtle, which I took home and ate one delicious bite at a time! ( I deserved it and besides, I ate it while moving about the house.)
After another stop at CVS, I drove to the park, and got out to walk to the bridge. I saw lots of black turtles sunning on the weir bank, and another large snapping turtle on the lily pads at the bridge. As I walked on, I saw the young gator sunning on a tree trunk just out of the water. His head was up as if he were posing, which he probably was for all the photos taken of him. There were also ibis fishing and a busy little moorhen, clucking to himself as he walked about on the lily pads. It was cool, the sun was warm, and it was a great day to be alive! God is good!
From the little devotional book Knowing God:
For truly I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you shall say to this mountain, "Move from here to there", and it shall move; and nothing shall be impossible to you.
Matthew 17:20 NASB
Because we live in a demanding world, all of us have mountains to climb and mountains to move. Moving those mountains requires faith.
Are you a mountain-moving Christian whose faith is evident for all to se? Or, are you a spiritual underachiever? As you think about the answer to that question, consider this: God needs more people who are willing to move mountains for His glory and for His kingdom.
Are you willing to let God help you move mountains, or are you still stumbling around over a few little molehills? the answer should be obvious. And so, with no more delays, let the mountain moving begin.
We are never stronger than the moment we admit we are weak,
Beth Moore
My faith does not rest on what I am or will be or will feel or will know, but in what Christ is, in what he has done, and in what he is now doing for me.
C.H. Spurgeon
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday, I was really busy running errands. I took a good long walk in Walmart, because God opened up a close parking space almost in front of the door, otherwise, I was going to stop at the Walmart Neighorhood store further down the highway. So, after shopping in there for a while, I had to wait almost as long to check out, as it took me to shop. Sigh. They never have enough cashiers working to take care of the crowds!
After unloading my groceries at home and eating a sandwich, I headed out again to pick up my quilt from the cleaners and had a short delightful conversation with the clerk about the beauty of the Amish quilt. Then on to NE shopping center where the shop where I stopped had lovely chocolates right at the cashier station, of course, so I just had to buy a large choc. turtle, which I took home and ate one delicious bite at a time! ( I deserved it and besides, I ate it while moving about the house.)
After another stop at CVS, I drove to the park, and got out to walk to the bridge. I saw lots of black turtles sunning on the weir bank, and another large snapping turtle on the lily pads at the bridge. As I walked on, I saw the young gator sunning on a tree trunk just out of the water. His head was up as if he were posing, which he probably was for all the photos taken of him. There were also ibis fishing and a busy little moorhen, clucking to himself as he walked about on the lily pads. It was cool, the sun was warm, and it was a great day to be alive! God is good!
From the little devotional book Knowing God:
For truly I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you shall say to this mountain, "Move from here to there", and it shall move; and nothing shall be impossible to you.
Matthew 17:20 NASB
Because we live in a demanding world, all of us have mountains to climb and mountains to move. Moving those mountains requires faith.
Are you a mountain-moving Christian whose faith is evident for all to se? Or, are you a spiritual underachiever? As you think about the answer to that question, consider this: God needs more people who are willing to move mountains for His glory and for His kingdom.
Are you willing to let God help you move mountains, or are you still stumbling around over a few little molehills? the answer should be obvious. And so, with no more delays, let the mountain moving begin.
We are never stronger than the moment we admit we are weak,
Beth Moore
My faith does not rest on what I am or will be or will feel or will know, but in what Christ is, in what he has done, and in what he is now doing for me.
C.H. Spurgeon
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Isaiah 40
Good morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! So. we finally got our cool weather! Just in the middle sixties, and overcast, but it feels good to get out the winter clothes again! Well, not really winter, but different, anyway.
I had a good chat with my cleaning ladies about their cruise...one would go again and one would not, although she had a good time, she is really afraid of storms. The other objected to the fact that as a single, she had to pay as much as doubles. All in all, they had a good time and urged me to go sometime. Who knows? Maybe I will.
I went to the park yesterday, after being home most of the day and saw the gopher tortoise, which has a tunnel right by the parking lot, and sits on his pile of sand, attracting all kinds of lookers. It was peaceful and fairly quiet with just the wind blowing in the trees.
I have noticed that the almost transparent geckos are still living in the garage, because when I turn on the light unexpectedly at night, there they are doing the wiggle walk up the door, so they can disappear behind some shelves. I really don't know what they live on, but maybe the garage is buggier than I thought. They are interesting creatures. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Isaiah 40:28-31
Have you never heard or understood? Don't you know that the Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth? He never grows faint or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. He gives power to those who are tired and worn out; he offers strength to the weak. Even youths will become exhausted and young men will give up. But those who wait on the Lord will find new strength. They will fly high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I had a good chat with my cleaning ladies about their cruise...one would go again and one would not, although she had a good time, she is really afraid of storms. The other objected to the fact that as a single, she had to pay as much as doubles. All in all, they had a good time and urged me to go sometime. Who knows? Maybe I will.
I went to the park yesterday, after being home most of the day and saw the gopher tortoise, which has a tunnel right by the parking lot, and sits on his pile of sand, attracting all kinds of lookers. It was peaceful and fairly quiet with just the wind blowing in the trees.
I have noticed that the almost transparent geckos are still living in the garage, because when I turn on the light unexpectedly at night, there they are doing the wiggle walk up the door, so they can disappear behind some shelves. I really don't know what they live on, but maybe the garage is buggier than I thought. They are interesting creatures. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Isaiah 40:28-31
Have you never heard or understood? Don't you know that the Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth? He never grows faint or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. He gives power to those who are tired and worn out; he offers strength to the weak. Even youths will become exhausted and young men will give up. But those who wait on the Lord will find new strength. They will fly high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Lamentations 3
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, the weatherman is not always right on. We did not have the rain and thunderstorms that were predicted, although we got a light shower here and this morning the porch was puddly from a rain during the night, but now the sun is shining, and the wind is blowing. So I guess the cold wave is on its way, after all.
Yesterday, I had a doctor's follow up app't. and it was unusually quiet in the office...no patients waiting, except me, so when I was called in, the doctor, after checking me over for any complaints, said my BP was under control, and he decided to chat with me. We spent half an hour chatting about various things and I asked him about his daughter who has gone into body art. She tattoos for a living, and is living with a tattoo supplier. Seems like both his daughters are free spirits, which is all right with him, as he stuck to what he likes to do best...meeting people and talking face to face and being a healer. He seems to like to chat with me when he has time.
I left with a light sprinkle coming down and before I got home, it was a steady light rain, but I drove to the park to check it out, and was surprised to see a few people taking their time leaving, even though it was raining steadily by that time. The squirrels were still scampering about and I saw two ibis perched in one tree, hanging over the water, and three further down, perched on another limb. The grass had recently been mowed, so it looked peaceful and quiet. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Hope in the Lord's faithfulness
Lamentations 3:19
The thought of my suffering and homelessness is bitter beyond words. I will never forget this awful time, as I grieve over my loss. Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this:
The unfailing love of the Lord never ends! By his mercies we have been kept from complete destruction. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day. I say to myself, "The Lord is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!"
The Lord is wonderfully good to those who wait for him and seek him. So it is good to wait quietly for salvation from the Lord. And it is good for the young to submit to the yoke of his discipline.
Let them sit alone in silence beneath the Lord's demands. Let them lie face down in the dust; then at last there is hope for them. Let them turn the other cheek to those who strike them. Let them accept the insults of their enemies.
For the Lord does not abandon anyone forever.Though he brings grief, he also shows compassion according to the greatness of his unfailing love. For he does not enjoy hurting people or bringing them sorrow.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday, I had a doctor's follow up app't. and it was unusually quiet in the office...no patients waiting, except me, so when I was called in, the doctor, after checking me over for any complaints, said my BP was under control, and he decided to chat with me. We spent half an hour chatting about various things and I asked him about his daughter who has gone into body art. She tattoos for a living, and is living with a tattoo supplier. Seems like both his daughters are free spirits, which is all right with him, as he stuck to what he likes to do best...meeting people and talking face to face and being a healer. He seems to like to chat with me when he has time.
I left with a light sprinkle coming down and before I got home, it was a steady light rain, but I drove to the park to check it out, and was surprised to see a few people taking their time leaving, even though it was raining steadily by that time. The squirrels were still scampering about and I saw two ibis perched in one tree, hanging over the water, and three further down, perched on another limb. The grass had recently been mowed, so it looked peaceful and quiet. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Hope in the Lord's faithfulness
Lamentations 3:19
The thought of my suffering and homelessness is bitter beyond words. I will never forget this awful time, as I grieve over my loss. Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this:
The unfailing love of the Lord never ends! By his mercies we have been kept from complete destruction. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day. I say to myself, "The Lord is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!"
The Lord is wonderfully good to those who wait for him and seek him. So it is good to wait quietly for salvation from the Lord. And it is good for the young to submit to the yoke of his discipline.
Let them sit alone in silence beneath the Lord's demands. Let them lie face down in the dust; then at last there is hope for them. Let them turn the other cheek to those who strike them. Let them accept the insults of their enemies.
For the Lord does not abandon anyone forever.Though he brings grief, he also shows compassion according to the greatness of his unfailing love. For he does not enjoy hurting people or bringing them sorrow.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, October 17, 2011
Habakkuk'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 sun was shining when I looked out awhile ago, but now the clouds have rolled in and looks like we will get the rain tomorrow that has been predicted. Well, God is in control of the weather and everything else!
On my way to church yesterday, I went around Lynch Lake and saw a flock of ibis, and all alone, two sad looking woodstorks, I have mentioned before how depressed they always look. Some birds look happy, but not them. Then, coming back home, the flock of ibis were still there, along with three woodstorks and a bunch of ducks all gathered in front of a bench eating some crumbs someone had left for them. They all seemed to be getting along just fine together.
The ducks are very possessive about their crossing the street rights...I made it just before a group of five started crossing in front of me. Once they start, they have no fear of cars and just take their time, all in a row.
I saw the remnants of a beautiful sunset as I was coming home from a meeting at church last night...all reds and pinks, streaking across the eastern sky. Just beautiful! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Habakkuk's Prayer (portions)
This prayer was sung by the prophet Havbakkuk:
I have heard all about you, Lord, and I am filled with awe by the amazing things you have done. In this time of our deep need, begin again to help us, as you did in years gone by. Show us your power to save us. And in your anger, remember your mercy.
I see God, the Holy one, moving across the deserts from Edom and Mount Paran. His brilliant splendor fills the heavens and the earth if filled with his praise! What a wonderful God he is! Rays of brilliant light flash from his hands. He rejoices in his awesome power. Pestilence marches before him, plague follows close behind. When he stops, the earth shakes. When he looks, the nations tremble. He shatters the everlasting mountains and levels the eternal hills. But his power is not diminished in the least! I see the peoples of Cushan and Midian trembling in terror....
Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vine; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren, even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation. The sovereign Lord is my strength! He will make me as furefooted as a deer and bring me safely over the mountains.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
On my way to church yesterday, I went around Lynch Lake and saw a flock of ibis, and all alone, two sad looking woodstorks, I have mentioned before how depressed they always look. Some birds look happy, but not them. Then, coming back home, the flock of ibis were still there, along with three woodstorks and a bunch of ducks all gathered in front of a bench eating some crumbs someone had left for them. They all seemed to be getting along just fine together.
The ducks are very possessive about their crossing the street rights...I made it just before a group of five started crossing in front of me. Once they start, they have no fear of cars and just take their time, all in a row.
I saw the remnants of a beautiful sunset as I was coming home from a meeting at church last night...all reds and pinks, streaking across the eastern sky. Just beautiful! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Habakkuk's Prayer (portions)
This prayer was sung by the prophet Havbakkuk:
I have heard all about you, Lord, and I am filled with awe by the amazing things you have done. In this time of our deep need, begin again to help us, as you did in years gone by. Show us your power to save us. And in your anger, remember your mercy.
I see God, the Holy one, moving across the deserts from Edom and Mount Paran. His brilliant splendor fills the heavens and the earth if filled with his praise! What a wonderful God he is! Rays of brilliant light flash from his hands. He rejoices in his awesome power. Pestilence marches before him, plague follows close behind. When he stops, the earth shakes. When he looks, the nations tremble. He shatters the everlasting mountains and levels the eternal hills. But his power is not diminished in the least! I see the peoples of Cushan and Midian trembling in terror....
Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vine; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren, even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation. The sovereign Lord is my strength! He will make me as furefooted as a deer and bring me safely over the mountains.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, October 14, 2011
Psoaring thru Psalm 100
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 beautiful morning with low humidity and lots of sunshine and the promise of a lovely day!
Yesterday, as I was driving east, I could not help admiring the towering, white puffy clouds in the distance..looked like big piles of whipped cream! I don't what kind of clouds they were...alto-cumulus, or whatever, but they were beautiful. Thank you , Jesus! I have to remember to get out to look at the moon tonight and see Jupiter dancing with it, as Paul Delegatto says. I know it will be a sight to see!
I got a lot of indoor exercise yesterday. I stripped the bed and washed all the sheets and sheet blanket, then put them all back on the bed, one by one, as they came out of the dryer, which meant walking back and forth from bedroom to garage. Then I decided to change the quilt to the winter one. I have two handmade Amish quilts, made for me by an old order Amish friend, who, before she died, lived in Indiana across from my grandfather's farm. The spring and summer quilt is the double wedding ring pattern and the winter is colors of blue, in the triangle pattern. They are treasures!
After all that, I drove to the library, and then to the park, to check out what was going on there. I saw a large flock of ibis, doing their thing, and many squirrels still gathered around the one tree they seem to call home. An egret was posing in the fishing position and the trees were hanging gracefully over the canal, reflecting in the water. It was a peaceful scene. God is good!
This is one of my favorite Psalms. I memorized it while in Sunday school as a child;
A psalm of thanksgiving:
Shout with joy to the Lord, O earth!
Worship the Lord with gladness.
Come before him, singing with joy,
Acknowledge that the Lord is God!
He made us and we are his.
We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving;
go into his courts with praise.
Give thanks to him and bless his name.
For the Lord is good.
His unfailing love continues forever,
and his faithfulness continues to each generation.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs, Amaryllis
Yesterday, as I was driving east, I could not help admiring the towering, white puffy clouds in the distance..looked like big piles of whipped cream! I don't what kind of clouds they were...alto-cumulus, or whatever, but they were beautiful. Thank you , Jesus! I have to remember to get out to look at the moon tonight and see Jupiter dancing with it, as Paul Delegatto says. I know it will be a sight to see!
I got a lot of indoor exercise yesterday. I stripped the bed and washed all the sheets and sheet blanket, then put them all back on the bed, one by one, as they came out of the dryer, which meant walking back and forth from bedroom to garage. Then I decided to change the quilt to the winter one. I have two handmade Amish quilts, made for me by an old order Amish friend, who, before she died, lived in Indiana across from my grandfather's farm. The spring and summer quilt is the double wedding ring pattern and the winter is colors of blue, in the triangle pattern. They are treasures!
After all that, I drove to the library, and then to the park, to check out what was going on there. I saw a large flock of ibis, doing their thing, and many squirrels still gathered around the one tree they seem to call home. An egret was posing in the fishing position and the trees were hanging gracefully over the canal, reflecting in the water. It was a peaceful scene. God is good!
This is one of my favorite Psalms. I memorized it while in Sunday school as a child;
A psalm of thanksgiving:
Shout with joy to the Lord, O earth!
Worship the Lord with gladness.
Come before him, singing with joy,
Acknowledge that the Lord is God!
He made us and we are his.
We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving;
go into his courts with praise.
Give thanks to him and bless his name.
For the Lord is good.
His unfailing love continues forever,
and his faithfulness continues to each generation.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs, Amaryllis
Thursday, October 13, 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! We have already had a couple showers this morning, but after they pass through, we have the promise of less humidity and a cool and beautiful weekend! Sounds great!
I got an all clear from the NPR yesterday, so the prescription I have to do myself is get more exercise...ugh, hard for me to do these days with the shortness of breath, but if I take just short walks, I'm sure it will gradually build up my stamina.
I visited the park yesterday and was surprised to see so many people out. Mostly, moms and babies in strollers and a couple very engrossed in each other. I didn't hear the hawk, but saw lots of ibis and birds flying about. The butterfly garden is flourishing and the teacher had a class on the boardwalk, instructing them on all nature around them. Nice field trip!
Speaking of birds, I found another dead baby mocker in front of the garage, again, as I was working in the yard trying to clean up part of the mess, since my yard man is having trouble with his truck.
The strange thing is...there was not a mark on the bird and I still cannot see the nest. He was already developed to the point that while still fuzzy on the chest, his wing feathers were already grown, so I could tell it was a mocker. Well, these things happen, I guess, but God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
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.
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
I got an all clear from the NPR yesterday, so the prescription I have to do myself is get more exercise...ugh, hard for me to do these days with the shortness of breath, but if I take just short walks, I'm sure it will gradually build up my stamina.
I visited the park yesterday and was surprised to see so many people out. Mostly, moms and babies in strollers and a couple very engrossed in each other. I didn't hear the hawk, but saw lots of ibis and birds flying about. The butterfly garden is flourishing and the teacher had a class on the boardwalk, instructing them on all nature around them. Nice field trip!
Speaking of birds, I found another dead baby mocker in front of the garage, again, as I was working in the yard trying to clean up part of the mess, since my yard man is having trouble with his truck.
The strange thing is...there was not a mark on the bird and I still cannot see the nest. He was already developed to the point that while still fuzzy on the chest, his wing feathers were already grown, so I could tell it was a mocker. Well, these things happen, I guess, but God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
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.
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
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Jesus, the True Vine
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, rain free morning and a great day to be alive and outdoors for just a few minutes.
My yard is still full of trash from the oaks, but Thursday will soon be here along with Dave, the yard man, and then it will look better until the next winds! The squirrels don't mind the mess, in fact, they add to it by cutting all the twigs for their nests. I saw more of their piles this morning, so they are still busy building for the coming winter.
I went to the park yesterday, and was admiring the foliage and butterflies and the people hanging over the bridge looking at the gator underneath. I counted five squirrels under the same tree, so there must have been tasty acorns in that spot. I also saw one of the gopher tortoises standing on the pile of sand that must have come from his tunnel. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
John 15:9-16
I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. When you obey me, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father and remain in his love. I have told you this so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes , your joy will overflow! I command you to love each other in the same way that I love you. And here is how to measure it--the greatest love is shown when people lay down their lives for their friends. You are my friends if you obey me. I no longer call you servants, because a master doesn't confide in his servants. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me. You didn't choose me, I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name. I command you to love each other.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
My yard is still full of trash from the oaks, but Thursday will soon be here along with Dave, the yard man, and then it will look better until the next winds! The squirrels don't mind the mess, in fact, they add to it by cutting all the twigs for their nests. I saw more of their piles this morning, so they are still busy building for the coming winter.
I went to the park yesterday, and was admiring the foliage and butterflies and the people hanging over the bridge looking at the gator underneath. I counted five squirrels under the same tree, so there must have been tasty acorns in that spot. I also saw one of the gopher tortoises standing on the pile of sand that must have come from his tunnel. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
John 15:9-16
I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. When you obey me, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father and remain in his love. I have told you this so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes , your joy will overflow! I command you to love each other in the same way that I love you. And here is how to measure it--the greatest love is shown when people lay down their lives for their friends. You are my friends if you obey me. I no longer call you servants, because a master doesn't confide in his servants. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me. You didn't choose me, I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name. I command you to love each other.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, October 10, 2011
James 1
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! Water is still dripping off the roof from the all day rain yesterday, but today the sun is shining and it looks like a cool, wonderful day! I drove to church in a light rain, but by the time I parked, it was really coming down hard. I got in fairly dry with my umbrella, but found out my back was wet, which soon dried.
My yard is a mess from the high winds Saturday, which whipped the twigs and branches from the trees, so now, it really needs a clean-up, Since the growth of the grass has slowed down, I only have it mowed every two weeks, and this is the week, so it will mostly be cleaned up Thursday. I can wait. I looked out the garage side door late yesterday to see if could take trash out, and a flock of birds landed and were very busily pecking on the ground, so I did not go out, but stood and watched, I didn't recognize the kind, but then realized they must have been immature blackbirds, kind of brownish with stripes. A few very black blackbirds were with them. They soon left in a cloud and perched on the overhead wires.
As I drove to church, I saw a woodstork and an anhinga perched on the same sign on the banks of Lynch Lake, contrasting very sharply with one black and one white..a strange pair. But God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
James 1:2-8
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 an unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. People like that should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. They can't make up their minds. They waver back and forth in everything they do. ...
God blesses the people who patiently endure testing. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs, Amaryllis
My yard is a mess from the high winds Saturday, which whipped the twigs and branches from the trees, so now, it really needs a clean-up, Since the growth of the grass has slowed down, I only have it mowed every two weeks, and this is the week, so it will mostly be cleaned up Thursday. I can wait. I looked out the garage side door late yesterday to see if could take trash out, and a flock of birds landed and were very busily pecking on the ground, so I did not go out, but stood and watched, I didn't recognize the kind, but then realized they must have been immature blackbirds, kind of brownish with stripes. A few very black blackbirds were with them. They soon left in a cloud and perched on the overhead wires.
As I drove to church, I saw a woodstork and an anhinga perched on the same sign on the banks of Lynch Lake, contrasting very sharply with one black and one white..a strange pair. But God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
James 1:2-8
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 an unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. People like that should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. They can't make up their minds. They waver back and forth in everything they do. ...
God blesses the people who patiently endure testing. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs, Amaryllis
Friday, October 7, 2011
Like a Newborn Babe
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 wind is blowing and the air is cool and the promise of rain is in the forecast. And, we had a good shower last night after dark.. I had seen a dark cloud hovering overhead, but really did not think it would rain. But it did not last long.
I was so impressed by the sky yesterday. In addition to the contrails, white puffy clouds were floating around , contrasting with the blue of the sky. Very beautiful!
After vacuuming and getting some things done, I went to the park, and saw one woodstork, and several ibises hanging around the weir. That is unusual, because I had not seen them there before. Then, further on, I saw the old gopher tortoise. As I was growing up, we just called them gophers, and they were everywhere in the vacant lots. Now, they are protected.
On my way back home, I took a detour to Wendy's and purchased a salad and baked potato with chili cheese topping for supper. Couldn't eat all of either one, so guess I will have reruns again for lunch. But God is good!
From the devotional book Quiet Moments with God:
I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you. I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.
Ezekiel 36:26 NKJV
In 1994, Jim Gleason underwent a life-saving heart transplant at age fifty-one. After he survived one of the most extreme surgeries imaginable, many asked how it felt to love with a new heart. His analogy was "like being born again, but with fifty years of memories and experiences built in."
He tells of coming home just ten days after his transplant. He wanted to go for a short walk around the yard. Accompanied by his daughter, he gazed in wonder at the green grass--so brilliant after weeks of drab hospital room walls. He recalls:
I stopped walking. "Look at that!" I exclaimed to Mary. I was pointing to our small maple tree, so vibrant with the colors of that crisp, clear fall day. Then I spied a grasshopper and, like the young child, exclaimed in glee, "Look at that! A grasshopper!"
Her response, in disbelief at my reaction, was an almost sarcastic, "Well, if that's exciting, look here-- a lady bug!"
After four years with his new heart. Jim still cherishes life's simple pleasures. And when is the danger of losing that gift greatest? " As friends and family wish you would return to being "Normal"". he reflects. "I struggle to never become "normal" in that sense again."
With God's help, we, too, can walk in newness of life--no surgery required. Give thanks that we don't have to be "normal".
Think not on what you lack
as much as on what you have.
Greek Proverb
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I was so impressed by the sky yesterday. In addition to the contrails, white puffy clouds were floating around , contrasting with the blue of the sky. Very beautiful!
After vacuuming and getting some things done, I went to the park, and saw one woodstork, and several ibises hanging around the weir. That is unusual, because I had not seen them there before. Then, further on, I saw the old gopher tortoise. As I was growing up, we just called them gophers, and they were everywhere in the vacant lots. Now, they are protected.
On my way back home, I took a detour to Wendy's and purchased a salad and baked potato with chili cheese topping for supper. Couldn't eat all of either one, so guess I will have reruns again for lunch. But God is good!
From the devotional book Quiet Moments with God:
I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you. I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.
Ezekiel 36:26 NKJV
In 1994, Jim Gleason underwent a life-saving heart transplant at age fifty-one. After he survived one of the most extreme surgeries imaginable, many asked how it felt to love with a new heart. His analogy was "like being born again, but with fifty years of memories and experiences built in."
He tells of coming home just ten days after his transplant. He wanted to go for a short walk around the yard. Accompanied by his daughter, he gazed in wonder at the green grass--so brilliant after weeks of drab hospital room walls. He recalls:
I stopped walking. "Look at that!" I exclaimed to Mary. I was pointing to our small maple tree, so vibrant with the colors of that crisp, clear fall day. Then I spied a grasshopper and, like the young child, exclaimed in glee, "Look at that! A grasshopper!"
Her response, in disbelief at my reaction, was an almost sarcastic, "Well, if that's exciting, look here-- a lady bug!"
After four years with his new heart. Jim still cherishes life's simple pleasures. And when is the danger of losing that gift greatest? " As friends and family wish you would return to being "Normal"". he reflects. "I struggle to never become "normal" in that sense again."
With God's help, we, too, can walk in newness of life--no surgery required. Give thanks that we don't have to be "normal".
Think not on what you lack
as much as on what you have.
Greek Proverb
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
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