Good Morning, dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! It is a windy, breezy, day with a cold front headed our way later on. However, we are supposed to get up to near eighty this afternoon. Sounds good to me!
This will be the last email from me since I am taking a Christmas vacation , so I can enjoy Daryl and Matthew's company while they are here. I was busy getting a few gifts wrapped yesterday, while the ladies cleaned and chatted. It's always fun to hear what is going on in their lives, while they want to know what is going on in mine. I was also remembering that Brian's birthday is Christmas Eve, which almost gets lost in the busyness of Christmas. God is good to have given me two wonderful sons!
1 Thessalonians 3:12 NLB
And may the Lord make your love to grow and overflow to each other and to everyone else, just as our love does toward you.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all the Prayer Partners and Friends!
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Put God in His Rightful Place
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! It is a little chilly this morning, so I have to keep moving, but the sun is shining and the air is dryer, so our cool front came through. I washed the blankets on my bed yesterday and it took me half a day to get the bed made, while I waited for them to dry. They felt good last night!
I did some more shopping, and stood in line which was moving very quickly. Guess you have to expect that this time of year! I still need to go back out and get the rest of what I forgot! No matter how much I write notes, I still forget to add something I need! Sigh. Oh, well, some things never change.
My yard man was here this morning, so I am already running late with what I had planned to do and time is not waiting for me. My cleaning ladies are coming this afternoon, so I need to get some things done before they come. I will just keep plugging away until I catch up!
I drove through the park on my last lap of the day, and saw the anhinga wiring out his wings on the weir. There has been a truck parked across the canal for a couple days, and I can't read the insignia on the side, but I am curious about it. Maybe my friend, Dave, will know what it is and why it is there. Anyway, I enjoy the unhurried pace and peacefulness in the park. God is good!
From the little devotional book Knowing God:
Do not worship any other gods besides me.
Exodus 20:3 NLT
If you really want to know God, you should start by putting Him first in your life. So here's a question worth thinking about. Have you made God your top priority by offering Him your heart, your soul, your talents, and your time? Or are you in the habit of giving God little more than a few hours on Sunday morning? The answer to these questions will determine, to a surprising extent, the quality of your life and the content of your character.
As you contemplate your own relationship with God remember this: all of mankind is engaged in the practice of worship.Some folks choose to worship God and, as a result reap the joy that He offers to His children. Other folks, folks who are stubbornly determined to do it" their way", distance themselves from God by worshiping such things as earthly possessions or personal gratification...and when they do, they suffer.
Does God rule your heart? If you sincerely want to know Him, you must answer yes-you must put your Creator in first place. No exceptions.
-Today's Prayer_
Dear Lord, you are the rock upon which I will build my life.
You have given me so much, and I am thankful. Today I will
strive to put You first in all I do.
Amen
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I did some more shopping, and stood in line which was moving very quickly. Guess you have to expect that this time of year! I still need to go back out and get the rest of what I forgot! No matter how much I write notes, I still forget to add something I need! Sigh. Oh, well, some things never change.
My yard man was here this morning, so I am already running late with what I had planned to do and time is not waiting for me. My cleaning ladies are coming this afternoon, so I need to get some things done before they come. I will just keep plugging away until I catch up!
I drove through the park on my last lap of the day, and saw the anhinga wiring out his wings on the weir. There has been a truck parked across the canal for a couple days, and I can't read the insignia on the side, but I am curious about it. Maybe my friend, Dave, will know what it is and why it is there. Anyway, I enjoy the unhurried pace and peacefulness in the park. God is good!
From the little devotional book Knowing God:
Do not worship any other gods besides me.
Exodus 20:3 NLT
If you really want to know God, you should start by putting Him first in your life. So here's a question worth thinking about. Have you made God your top priority by offering Him your heart, your soul, your talents, and your time? Or are you in the habit of giving God little more than a few hours on Sunday morning? The answer to these questions will determine, to a surprising extent, the quality of your life and the content of your character.
As you contemplate your own relationship with God remember this: all of mankind is engaged in the practice of worship.Some folks choose to worship God and, as a result reap the joy that He offers to His children. Other folks, folks who are stubbornly determined to do it" their way", distance themselves from God by worshiping such things as earthly possessions or personal gratification...and when they do, they suffer.
Does God rule your heart? If you sincerely want to know Him, you must answer yes-you must put your Creator in first place. No exceptions.
-Today's Prayer_
Dear Lord, you are the rock upon which I will build my life.
You have given me so much, and I am thankful. Today I will
strive to put You first in all I do.
Amen
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Psoaring thru Psalm 145
Good morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! While it is nice and warm and sunny, the report is that a cold front will be moving through and Saturday will be much cooler! I even heart mention of 48 degrees Sat. morning. Well, maybe it will warm up again very fast!
I watched most of the Jets/ Titans game last night and while Tim Tebow was in for only one play while I was watching, I think if the coach would have put him in for more plays, maybe they would have won. He certainly could not have been worse than Sanchez! Just my opinion, for what it's worth.
Because of Tim's faith, even the announcer quoted his scripture for the survivors of the horrible event at Newtown. . That is one tiny bit of good that has come out of this. Even Obama quoted scripture in his speech!
I ran some errands yesterday, and patiently waited in line at the Christian bookstore for the only cashier??? Why only one at a busy time is beyond me! After I got most of my running around done, I headed for the park and saw a few people there, the school bus leaving and turtles on the bank of the weir. Before I left, I noticed a large white egret across the street with the long, neck undulating as it studied the shrubs for a tasty tidbit.
After that, he gracefully ambled across their driveway and disappeared from my view. God is good!
Psalm 145:13-21
The Lord is faithful in all he says;
he is gracious is all he does.
The Lord helps the fallen
and lifts up those bent beneath their loads.
When you open your hand,
you satisfy every living thing.
The Lord is righteous in everything he does.
He is filled with kindness.
The Lord is close to all who call on him.
Yes, to all who call on him sincerely.
He fulfills the desires of all those who fear him,
He hears their cries for help and rescues them.
The Lord protects all those who love him
but he destroys the wicked.
I will praise the Lord,
and everyone on earth will bless his holy name
forever and ever.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I watched most of the Jets/ Titans game last night and while Tim Tebow was in for only one play while I was watching, I think if the coach would have put him in for more plays, maybe they would have won. He certainly could not have been worse than Sanchez! Just my opinion, for what it's worth.
Because of Tim's faith, even the announcer quoted his scripture for the survivors of the horrible event at Newtown. . That is one tiny bit of good that has come out of this. Even Obama quoted scripture in his speech!
I ran some errands yesterday, and patiently waited in line at the Christian bookstore for the only cashier??? Why only one at a busy time is beyond me! After I got most of my running around done, I headed for the park and saw a few people there, the school bus leaving and turtles on the bank of the weir. Before I left, I noticed a large white egret across the street with the long, neck undulating as it studied the shrubs for a tasty tidbit.
After that, he gracefully ambled across their driveway and disappeared from my view. God is good!
Psalm 145:13-21
The Lord is faithful in all he says;
he is gracious is all he does.
The Lord helps the fallen
and lifts up those bent beneath their loads.
When you open your hand,
you satisfy every living thing.
The Lord is righteous in everything he does.
He is filled with kindness.
The Lord is close to all who call on him.
Yes, to all who call on him sincerely.
He fulfills the desires of all those who fear him,
He hears their cries for help and rescues them.
The Lord protects all those who love him
but he destroys the wicked.
I will praise the Lord,
and everyone on earth will bless his holy name
forever and ever.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, December 17, 2012
Opportunities
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! Cool these mornings with sunshine, and warm later in the day, seems to be the constant weather report lately. There is quite a strong breeze now, but when I went outside a while ago, it was already in the seventies!
I was out and about quite a bit over the weekend, which is unusual for me, but since I am expecting my son and grandson here this weekend, I have many things to get done. As I was going around Lynch Lake one of the days, the ibis flock was spilling out into the street, it was so large. A couple just took their time walking ahead of the car, before they got out of the way. I also saw moorhens and ducks splashing around, Then, when I went to the park, the black, shiny gator was sunning on the lake bank both days, with lots of turtles on the bank of the weir and the spread-wing anhinga in the middle. Driving around the circle, I saw a couple taking photos of the gopher tortoise, which was perched at the edge of his tunnel home.
Yesterday we had a most moving end to the sermon, with a video Pastor Rick put together as a background to the song he composed, "When Does God Weep". The photos were of scenes from the terrible tragedy in Newtown. I think most everyone was weeping. But we know that God is still in control and He is Good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How do I know if an opportunity is from the Lord?
Joshua 1:7-0 Be strong and very courageous. Obey all the laws Moses gave you. Do not turn away from them, and you will be successful in everything you do. Study the book of the Law continually. Meditate on it continually. Meditate on it day and night so you may be sure to obey all that is written in it. Only then will you succeed. I command you - be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
Ephesians 5:15-20 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. God's opportunities conform to his word Anything that contradicts God's word is not an opportunity from God.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I was out and about quite a bit over the weekend, which is unusual for me, but since I am expecting my son and grandson here this weekend, I have many things to get done. As I was going around Lynch Lake one of the days, the ibis flock was spilling out into the street, it was so large. A couple just took their time walking ahead of the car, before they got out of the way. I also saw moorhens and ducks splashing around, Then, when I went to the park, the black, shiny gator was sunning on the lake bank both days, with lots of turtles on the bank of the weir and the spread-wing anhinga in the middle. Driving around the circle, I saw a couple taking photos of the gopher tortoise, which was perched at the edge of his tunnel home.
Yesterday we had a most moving end to the sermon, with a video Pastor Rick put together as a background to the song he composed, "When Does God Weep". The photos were of scenes from the terrible tragedy in Newtown. I think most everyone was weeping. But we know that God is still in control and He is Good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How do I know if an opportunity is from the Lord?
Joshua 1:7-0 Be strong and very courageous. Obey all the laws Moses gave you. Do not turn away from them, and you will be successful in everything you do. Study the book of the Law continually. Meditate on it continually. Meditate on it day and night so you may be sure to obey all that is written in it. Only then will you succeed. I command you - be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
Ephesians 5:15-20 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. God's opportunities conform to his word Anything that contradicts God's word is not an opportunity from God.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, December 14, 2012
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! Well, we got our cooler weather last night. My thermometer read 58 outside for this morning, but the prediction is for warming up into the seventies as soon as the foggy overcast burns off.. So we will have great weather for awhile longer!
I drove over to the park during a cloudy afternoon and saw a worse problem with leaves and acorns than I have! Of course, there are a lot more trees than I have, but since the drive is not blown off any more, it stays full of all kinds of oak dust, which is why I keep sneezing and blowing. So, you take the good with the bad. I saw a couple of ibis in the bare trees along the canal and noticed the water is still high from the rain a couple days ago.
Well, I loaded up the back of the van with the bag of clothes from the closet cleaning and another bag of belts. Things really do accumulate! Now, I am determined to put about six irons, still working, in with the clothes and take everything over to the Salvation Army. Someone will get some good from these things! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
John 15:5-8
Yes, I am the vine, you are the branches.
Those who remain in me, and I in them,
will produce much fruit,. For apart from me
you can do nothing. Anyone who parts from
me is thrown away like a useless branch
and withers. Such branches are gathered
into a pile to be burned. But if you stay
joined to me and my words remain in you,
you may ask any request you like, and it will
be granted! My true disciples produce much
fruit. This brings much glory to my Father.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I drove over to the park during a cloudy afternoon and saw a worse problem with leaves and acorns than I have! Of course, there are a lot more trees than I have, but since the drive is not blown off any more, it stays full of all kinds of oak dust, which is why I keep sneezing and blowing. So, you take the good with the bad. I saw a couple of ibis in the bare trees along the canal and noticed the water is still high from the rain a couple days ago.
Well, I loaded up the back of the van with the bag of clothes from the closet cleaning and another bag of belts. Things really do accumulate! Now, I am determined to put about six irons, still working, in with the clothes and take everything over to the Salvation Army. Someone will get some good from these things! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
John 15:5-8
Yes, I am the vine, you are the branches.
Those who remain in me, and I in them,
will produce much fruit,. For apart from me
you can do nothing. Anyone who parts from
me is thrown away like a useless branch
and withers. Such branches are gathered
into a pile to be burned. But if you stay
joined to me and my words remain in you,
you may ask any request you like, and it will
be granted! My true disciples produce much
fruit. This brings much glory to my Father.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Psoaring thru Psalm 84
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 sunshine, but now the clouds are building up, and it feels like a change is in the air. Hopefully, it will not be too drastic, too fast. Yesterday, while my cleaning ladies were here, I turned the A/C on , because it was warm in the house. It didn't take long to dry out and cool off, do the rest of the day was comfy.
I just did ironing, and worked on the closets some more and did not really have a reason to go out, so stayed in all day. So, that means I will have to run errands and catch up, soon! It's probably good for me to stay out of traffic as much as possible these busy days, anyway..but God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 84:10-13
A single day in your courts is better than a thousand anywhere else!
I would rather be a gatekeeper in the house of my God
than live the good life in the homes of the wicked.
For the Lord 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.
O Lord Almighty, happy are those who trust in you.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I just did ironing, and worked on the closets some more and did not really have a reason to go out, so stayed in all day. So, that means I will have to run errands and catch up, soon! It's probably good for me to stay out of traffic as much as possible these busy days, anyway..but God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 84:10-13
A single day in your courts is better than a thousand anywhere else!
I would rather be a gatekeeper in the house of my God
than live the good life in the homes of the wicked.
For the Lord 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.
O Lord Almighty, happy are those who trust in you.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Don't Fall Prey to Envy
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Happy 12/12/12! I have already read several postings about the date which is the last I will see in my lifetime..But today is sunshiny so far, however, the weatherman says rain this afternoon, as the cold front is sneaking in. It is already quite cool north of here, but I had the A/C on for a little while this morning, because the house seemed stuffy after my shower. My cleaning ladies always notice the temp in the house as they work so hard they get quite warm!.
I found my candle rings! I decided to put them some place easier to find and store last year, but then could not remember where that place was. Yesterday, I looked high up in a closet and there they were, so I climbed up on a stool (carefully holding on to shelves) and got them down, put candles in them, and placed them where I wanted them. Another job done! I am already receiving some Christmas cards, but I have dropped most of my card mailing in the last few years. I still like to read the ones that come in, though.
After sweeping off the wet porch, which I practically had to shovel, because the leaves were so wet; I drove over to the park for a little bit. The anhinga was airing out the wings, even though it had started raining, and I saw two egrets standing on the bank of the canal by the bridge. The water was up high after the rain from the day before and it looked good. People were leaving, because it had started coming down pretty hard. But God is good!
From the little book of devotions Knowing God:
We can't afford to waste a minute, must not squander these
precious daylight hours in frivolity and indulgence,
in sleeping around and dissipation, in bickering and grabbing
everything in sight. Get out of bed and get dressed!
Don't loiter and linger, waiting until the very last minute.
Dress yourselves in Christ, and be up and about!
Because we are imperfect, we are sometimes envious of others.
but to be envious is to be foolish. So we must guard ourselves
against the natural tendency to feel resentment and jealousy
when other people experience good fortune. Rather than
succumbing to feelings of envy, we should focus on the marvelous
things that God has done for us (and we should refrain from
preoccupying ourselves with the blessings that God has chosen
to give others.)
St. John Chrysostom offered thses words of caution: "As a moth
gnaws a garment, so does envy consume a man."
Count your own blessings and let your neighbors count theirs.
It's the best way to live.
What God asks, does, or requires of others is not my business, it is His.
Kay Arthur
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I found my candle rings! I decided to put them some place easier to find and store last year, but then could not remember where that place was. Yesterday, I looked high up in a closet and there they were, so I climbed up on a stool (carefully holding on to shelves) and got them down, put candles in them, and placed them where I wanted them. Another job done! I am already receiving some Christmas cards, but I have dropped most of my card mailing in the last few years. I still like to read the ones that come in, though.
After sweeping off the wet porch, which I practically had to shovel, because the leaves were so wet; I drove over to the park for a little bit. The anhinga was airing out the wings, even though it had started raining, and I saw two egrets standing on the bank of the canal by the bridge. The water was up high after the rain from the day before and it looked good. People were leaving, because it had started coming down pretty hard. But God is good!
From the little book of devotions Knowing God:
We can't afford to waste a minute, must not squander these
precious daylight hours in frivolity and indulgence,
in sleeping around and dissipation, in bickering and grabbing
everything in sight. Get out of bed and get dressed!
Don't loiter and linger, waiting until the very last minute.
Dress yourselves in Christ, and be up and about!
Because we are imperfect, we are sometimes envious of others.
but to be envious is to be foolish. So we must guard ourselves
against the natural tendency to feel resentment and jealousy
when other people experience good fortune. Rather than
succumbing to feelings of envy, we should focus on the marvelous
things that God has done for us (and we should refrain from
preoccupying ourselves with the blessings that God has chosen
to give others.)
St. John Chrysostom offered thses words of caution: "As a moth
gnaws a garment, so does envy consume a man."
Count your own blessings and let your neighbors count theirs.
It's the best way to live.
What God asks, does, or requires of others is not my business, it is His.
Kay Arthur
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Encouraging words from Old and New Testaments
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! It is sunshiny with blue skies this morning, but yesterday was overcast all day and last night we had a loud thunderstorm and tornado warning, with some good heavy showers. We had been two months with no rain at all, so that was very welcome. One not very pleasant result of the strong winds is that the front porch is covered with leaves, wet leaves, which means that my sweeping job yesterday did not last very long. Sigh. To look at the positive side, there are fewer left on the trees! Oh, well, I will get to that later.
I did not take the van out yesterday. Instead, I stayed in and got much inside work done, that I had been putting off. Daryl and Matthew will be coming down from TN a week from Friday, so I need to finish up with preparations for their coming.
My front porch light burned out again and I had a phone call from my across the street friend, telling me it was not on. I told her I had turned it on before the Christmas lights came on, but I did not notice when it burned out. I am so blessed to have a friend who looks out for me! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Deuteronomy 7:9
Understand, therefore, that the Lord your God is indeed God.
He is a faithful God who keeps his covenant for a
thousand generations and constantly loves
those who love him and obey his commands.
Jude 20-24
But you, dear friends, must continue to build
your lives on the foundation of your holy faith.
And continue to pray as you are directed by the
Holy Spirit. Live in such a way that God's love
can bless you as you wait for the eternal life
that our Lord Jesus Christ in his mercy is going
to give you. Show mercy to those whose faith
is wavering. Rescue others by snatching them
from the flames of judgement. There are still
others to whom you need to show mercy, but
be careful that you are not contaminated by
their sins.
And now, all glory to God, who is able to keep you from
stumbling, and who will bring you into his glorious
presence innocent of sin and with great joy. All glory
to him, who alone is God our Savior, through Jesus
Christ, our Lord. Yes, glory, Majesty, power and
authority belong to him, in the beginning, now and
forevermore. Amen.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I did not take the van out yesterday. Instead, I stayed in and got much inside work done, that I had been putting off. Daryl and Matthew will be coming down from TN a week from Friday, so I need to finish up with preparations for their coming.
My front porch light burned out again and I had a phone call from my across the street friend, telling me it was not on. I told her I had turned it on before the Christmas lights came on, but I did not notice when it burned out. I am so blessed to have a friend who looks out for me! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Deuteronomy 7:9
Understand, therefore, that the Lord your God is indeed God.
He is a faithful God who keeps his covenant for a
thousand generations and constantly loves
those who love him and obey his commands.
Jude 20-24
But you, dear friends, must continue to build
your lives on the foundation of your holy faith.
And continue to pray as you are directed by the
Holy Spirit. Live in such a way that God's love
can bless you as you wait for the eternal life
that our Lord Jesus Christ in his mercy is going
to give you. Show mercy to those whose faith
is wavering. Rescue others by snatching them
from the flames of judgement. There are still
others to whom you need to show mercy, but
be careful that you are not contaminated by
their sins.
And now, all glory to God, who is able to keep you from
stumbling, and who will bring you into his glorious
presence innocent of sin and with great joy. All glory
to him, who alone is God our Savior, through Jesus
Christ, our Lord. Yes, glory, Majesty, power and
authority belong to him, in the beginning, now and
forevermore. Amen.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, December 10, 2012
Jesus and Zacchaeus
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 kind of a changeable day today, with clouds, sun and wind and maybe rain later on. But temps are still in the low seventies and after watching the Packers game yesterday, played in what looked like a blizzard to me. I will take this weather any day! I cannot imagine sitting for three hours in freezing temps to watch a football game and there was even one guy who was bare-chested! Wonder how much frost bite he has today...
While driving to and from a church meeting last night, I was able to see lots of pretty Christmas decorations, so people are getting in the spirit early. Even my house looked pretty with the icicle lights twinkling all around the front. Rick did a good job hanging them. I am slowly getting the inside of the house decorated, but I keep forgetting where I stored everything last year. While getting out some decorations from a closet, I decided I might as well clean out some more clothes I had not worn in a year or so, so now I have a big pile to bag up. One thing leads to another...
I took a ride down into the park after church and saw the gopher tortoise emerging from his cave. I was glad to see him. There were quite a few turtles sunning on the bank of the weir, and an anhinga was stretching out his wings just above them. the moor hens were also swimming around, so all was well. God is good!
As I was reading scripture this morning, I came across this story, which I used to read to my boys from children's books:
Luke 19:1-10
Jesus entered Jericho and made his way
through the town. There was a man there
named Zacchaeus. He was one of the most
influential Jews in the Roman tax collecting
business,and he had become very rich. He
tried to get a look at Jesus, but he was too short
to see over the crowds. So he ran ahead and
climbed a sycamore tree beside the road, so he
could watch from there.
When Jesus came by he looked up at Zacchaeus
and called him by name. "Zacchaeus!" he said.
"Quick, come down! For I must be a guest in your
home today."
Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus
to his house in great excitement and joy. But the crowds
were displeased." He has gone to be the guest of a
notorious sinner," they grumbled.
Meanwhile, Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord,
"I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have
overcharged people on their taxes, I will give them back four
times as much!"
Jesus responded, "Salvation has come to this home today.
For this man has shown himself to be a son of Abraham.
"And I, the Son of Man, have come to seek and save those
like him who are lost."
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
While driving to and from a church meeting last night, I was able to see lots of pretty Christmas decorations, so people are getting in the spirit early. Even my house looked pretty with the icicle lights twinkling all around the front. Rick did a good job hanging them. I am slowly getting the inside of the house decorated, but I keep forgetting where I stored everything last year. While getting out some decorations from a closet, I decided I might as well clean out some more clothes I had not worn in a year or so, so now I have a big pile to bag up. One thing leads to another...
I took a ride down into the park after church and saw the gopher tortoise emerging from his cave. I was glad to see him. There were quite a few turtles sunning on the bank of the weir, and an anhinga was stretching out his wings just above them. the moor hens were also swimming around, so all was well. God is good!
As I was reading scripture this morning, I came across this story, which I used to read to my boys from children's books:
Luke 19:1-10
Jesus entered Jericho and made his way
through the town. There was a man there
named Zacchaeus. He was one of the most
influential Jews in the Roman tax collecting
business,and he had become very rich. He
tried to get a look at Jesus, but he was too short
to see over the crowds. So he ran ahead and
climbed a sycamore tree beside the road, so he
could watch from there.
When Jesus came by he looked up at Zacchaeus
and called him by name. "Zacchaeus!" he said.
"Quick, come down! For I must be a guest in your
home today."
Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus
to his house in great excitement and joy. But the crowds
were displeased." He has gone to be the guest of a
notorious sinner," they grumbled.
Meanwhile, Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord,
"I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have
overcharged people on their taxes, I will give them back four
times as much!"
Jesus responded, "Salvation has come to this home today.
For this man has shown himself to be a son of Abraham.
"And I, the Son of Man, have come to seek and save those
like him who are lost."
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, December 7, 2012
Be Still
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! It is overcast and damp and cool this morning, but I think the sun will soon be shining and warm things up a bit. There is a very slim chance of rain, but not much. But I was able to get the flag out, because today is Pearl Harbor Day. I remember exactly where I was, when I heard the news that Pearl Harbor had been attacked by the Japanese. From that time on, we read the Times every day to see the casualties list. Lucky Strike green went to war, and we had ration stamps for sugar, Also for gasoline. Praise God that war was over a lot sooner that the Vietnam war!
Yesterday I went to the Walmart N.S. and had some interesting experiences there. I was handed a long stemmed carnation in the produce dept., was complemented by a woman on my earrings, listened to a man of color about the state of different sexual lifestyles, (caused by a young man I had stopped for, because he was texting and not looking where he was going). He looked "different". The one talking to me never said anything offensive; just that his mother had seven sons, and wanted to raise them to be men. Shopping may be a pleasure at Publix, but Walmart has it beat for "different". :o)
Later in the afternoon, I got to the peaceful park and enjoyed the squirrels scampering up the trees and the people walking and taking photos with their cameras.God is good!
From the little devotional book Knowing God:
Be still and know that I am God.
Psalm 40:10 NKJV
The Bible teaches that a wonderful way to get to know God is simply to be still and listen to Him. But sometimes you may find it hard to slow down and listen. As the demands of everyday life weigh down upon you, you may be tempted to ignore God's presence or-worse yet- to rebel against His commandments. But, when you quiet yourself and acknowledge His presence, God touches your heart and restores your spirits. So why not let Him do it right now? If you really want to know Him better, silence is a wonderful place to start.
I have come to recognize that He never asks us to do anything He has not already done. He never takes us any place where he has not been ahead of us. What he is after is not performance, but a relationship with us.
Gloria Gaither
Lord, your Holy Word is a light unto the world; let me study it , trust it , and share it with all who cross my path. Let me discover You, Father, in the quiet moments of the day. And, in all that I say and do, help me to be a worthy witness as I share the Good News of your perfect Son and Your perfect Word. Amen.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday I went to the Walmart N.S. and had some interesting experiences there. I was handed a long stemmed carnation in the produce dept., was complemented by a woman on my earrings, listened to a man of color about the state of different sexual lifestyles, (caused by a young man I had stopped for, because he was texting and not looking where he was going). He looked "different". The one talking to me never said anything offensive; just that his mother had seven sons, and wanted to raise them to be men. Shopping may be a pleasure at Publix, but Walmart has it beat for "different". :o)
Later in the afternoon, I got to the peaceful park and enjoyed the squirrels scampering up the trees and the people walking and taking photos with their cameras.God is good!
From the little devotional book Knowing God:
Be still and know that I am God.
Psalm 40:10 NKJV
The Bible teaches that a wonderful way to get to know God is simply to be still and listen to Him. But sometimes you may find it hard to slow down and listen. As the demands of everyday life weigh down upon you, you may be tempted to ignore God's presence or-worse yet- to rebel against His commandments. But, when you quiet yourself and acknowledge His presence, God touches your heart and restores your spirits. So why not let Him do it right now? If you really want to know Him better, silence is a wonderful place to start.
I have come to recognize that He never asks us to do anything He has not already done. He never takes us any place where he has not been ahead of us. What he is after is not performance, but a relationship with us.
Gloria Gaither
Lord, your Holy Word is a light unto the world; let me study it , trust it , and share it with all who cross my path. Let me discover You, Father, in the quiet moments of the day. And, in all that I say and do, help me to be a worthy witness as I share the Good News of your perfect Son and Your perfect Word. Amen.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, December 6, 2012
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! We have a few clouds this morning, so maybe that means some rain, some time, some where. One can only hope and pray!
I am expecting my pest control man to come soon, and yesterday, my lawn guy was here, and then the cleaning ladies in the afternoon. so I stuck close to home for most of the day. I did get out to the park for a little while late in the afternoon, but I really do not like to drive around 4 PM, if I have to head west. The sun is low enough that it comes under my visor and is blinding. But I caught a glimpse of the gator resting on the bank of the lake and then ibis in the circle. There were a few people walking and looking over the bridge, and just enjoying leisure time. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Isaiah 40:28-31
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 am expecting my pest control man to come soon, and yesterday, my lawn guy was here, and then the cleaning ladies in the afternoon. so I stuck close to home for most of the day. I did get out to the park for a little while late in the afternoon, but I really do not like to drive around 4 PM, if I have to head west. The sun is low enough that it comes under my visor and is blinding. But I caught a glimpse of the gator resting on the bank of the lake and then ibis in the circle. There were a few people walking and looking over the bridge, and just enjoying leisure time. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Isaiah 40:28-31
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, December 5, 2012
Joggin' thru Jude
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! This is another beautiful day, but dry! My doctor said yesterday that he thought Florida was going to turn into a desert, because of the lack of rain. He is seeing many more allergies, earlier this year than most. I know I have sneezing, blowing episodes every day..seems to be normal with me.
Well, I got some more inside decorating done yesterday, but still have not uncovered where I stashed my candle rings last year. I'm afraid they are up high with all the Christmas tree decorations. Oh, well, I still have time to get things done.
After I left the doc's office, I drove to the park, and saw a couple turtles on the side of the weir, and across the way, the gator was back sunning himself on the bank of the lake. All was quiet by the bridges, with very few cars parked and no people in sight. But I still did not see any ibis pecking around. Very unusual, but God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Jude 1:20-25
But you, dear friends must continue to
build your lives on the foundation of your
holy faith, and continue to pray as directed
by the Holy Spirit. Live in such a way
that God's love can bless you as you wait
for the eternal life that our Lord Jesus Christ
in his mercy is going to give you. Show mercy
to those who faith is wavering. Rescue others
by snatching them from the flames of judgement.
There are still others to whom you need to show
mercy, but be careful that you aren't contaminated
by their sins.
A Prayer of Praise
And now, all glory to God, who is able to keep
you from stumbling, and who will bring you into his
glorious presence innocent of sin and with
great joy. All glory to him, who alone is God our
Savior. through Jesus Christ our Lord. Yes, glory,
majesty, power, and authority belong to him, in the
beginning, now, and forevermore. Amen.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Well, I got some more inside decorating done yesterday, but still have not uncovered where I stashed my candle rings last year. I'm afraid they are up high with all the Christmas tree decorations. Oh, well, I still have time to get things done.
After I left the doc's office, I drove to the park, and saw a couple turtles on the side of the weir, and across the way, the gator was back sunning himself on the bank of the lake. All was quiet by the bridges, with very few cars parked and no people in sight. But I still did not see any ibis pecking around. Very unusual, but God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Jude 1:20-25
But you, dear friends must continue to
build your lives on the foundation of your
holy faith, and continue to pray as directed
by the Holy Spirit. Live in such a way
that God's love can bless you as you wait
for the eternal life that our Lord Jesus Christ
in his mercy is going to give you. Show mercy
to those who faith is wavering. Rescue others
by snatching them from the flames of judgement.
There are still others to whom you need to show
mercy, but be careful that you aren't contaminated
by their sins.
A Prayer of Praise
And now, all glory to God, who is able to keep
you from stumbling, and who will bring you into his
glorious presence innocent of sin and with
great joy. All glory to him, who alone is God our
Savior. through Jesus Christ our Lord. Yes, glory,
majesty, power, and authority belong to him, in the
beginning, now, and forevermore. Amen.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Psoaring thru Psalm 25
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! Seems like it is a couple degrees cooler this morning, but still it is in the low seventies and going up again to the eighties again. One meteorologist said he expected this weather to last all the way through Christmas! We will only see a white Christmas if we go way north!
After going to CVS yesterday, and visiting with two friends I came across...seems like God puts people in my path that I know, in unexpected places.. I drove on to the park and, Strangely enough, I did not see a single bird, water fowl, or squirrel! That is a first! However, there were a lot of people enjoying this beautiful weather.
I was given a papaya when I walked into church Sunday, by a friend who has a papaya tree in her yard. She said she planted a seed and it grew and has been quite prolific in bearing fruit! My daddy used to grow papaya trees when I was a kid and I always liked them. I sometimes buy the slices in Publix, when they have them in their fruit salad dept. This one should last quite a while, because it is big! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 25: 6-13
Remember, O Lord, your unfailing love and compassion,
which you have shown from long ages past.
Forgive the rebellious sins of my youth
look instead through the eyes of your unfailing love,
for you are merciful, O Lord.
The Lord is good and does what is right;
he shows the proper path to those who go astray.
He leads the humble in what is right, teaching them his way.
The Lord leads with unfailing love and faithfulness
all those who keep his covenant and obey his decrees.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
After going to CVS yesterday, and visiting with two friends I came across...seems like God puts people in my path that I know, in unexpected places.. I drove on to the park and, Strangely enough, I did not see a single bird, water fowl, or squirrel! That is a first! However, there were a lot of people enjoying this beautiful weather.
I was given a papaya when I walked into church Sunday, by a friend who has a papaya tree in her yard. She said she planted a seed and it grew and has been quite prolific in bearing fruit! My daddy used to grow papaya trees when I was a kid and I always liked them. I sometimes buy the slices in Publix, when they have them in their fruit salad dept. This one should last quite a while, because it is big! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 25: 6-13
Remember, O Lord, your unfailing love and compassion,
which you have shown from long ages past.
Forgive the rebellious sins of my youth
look instead through the eyes of your unfailing love,
for you are merciful, O Lord.
The Lord is good and does what is right;
he shows the proper path to those who go astray.
He leads the humble in what is right, teaching them his way.
The Lord leads with unfailing love and faithfulness
all those who keep his covenant and obey his decrees.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, December 3, 2012
Psoaring thru Psalm 25
Good Morning, dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! It is hard to believe that this is the first week in December and our temps are going up to the low eighties this afternoon! Yesterday was just beautiful, with lots of sunshine
. After I left church, and had lunch, I went over to the park and expected to see lots of people there, enjoying the day. I was not disappointed, because families were there with children, who were very excited to see all kinds of birds and other wildlife. What I saw were ibis, anhingas and egrets in the canal. The usual squirrels were begging at the picnic tables, which they always do whenever I have a bite to eat there. Well, last week was full of appointments of one kind or another, so far, this week, I only have one scheduled. I don't like to have so many in one week!
When I drove around Lynch Lake on the way to church, once again, ducks were gathered under the only shade, and a wood stork was off by himself, gazing at the water. The lake surface was like a mirror, very still and calm. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 25
To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
I trust in you, my God!
Do not let me be disgraced,
or let my enemies rejoice in my defeat.
No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced.
But disgrace comes to those who try
to deceive others.
Show me the path where I should walk, O Lord.
point out the right road for me to follow.
Lead me by your truth and teach me,
for you are the God who saves me,
All day long I put my hope in you...
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
. After I left church, and had lunch, I went over to the park and expected to see lots of people there, enjoying the day. I was not disappointed, because families were there with children, who were very excited to see all kinds of birds and other wildlife. What I saw were ibis, anhingas and egrets in the canal. The usual squirrels were begging at the picnic tables, which they always do whenever I have a bite to eat there. Well, last week was full of appointments of one kind or another, so far, this week, I only have one scheduled. I don't like to have so many in one week!
When I drove around Lynch Lake on the way to church, once again, ducks were gathered under the only shade, and a wood stork was off by himself, gazing at the water. The lake surface was like a mirror, very still and calm. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 25
To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
I trust in you, my God!
Do not let me be disgraced,
or let my enemies rejoice in my defeat.
No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced.
But disgrace comes to those who try
to deceive others.
Show me the path where I should walk, O Lord.
point out the right road for me to follow.
Lead me by your truth and teach me,
for you are the God who saves me,
All day long I put my hope in you...
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, November 30, 2012
Roamin' thru Romans
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, dry day is ahead of us and I have an appointment with my dentist. Not my idea of a good way to spend the morning. Well, it comes around every six months and this is the day.
I hope you all who have had clear skies have been able to see Jupiter beside the full moon night before last. Last night, Jupiter was way off to the right of the moon, but still shining brightly! "The majesty and glory of his name". What a sight!
The icicle lights are up all around the house,thanks to Rick, but nothing much has been done to the inside, yet. Putting up the all the time things and getting out the decorations is the hardest. My friend, Cheryl, from across the street gave me a timer to use for the outside lights, and set it to go on and then off. After a couple glitches, it worked, so I don't have to go in the garage to turn the lights off, when I go to bed. She is always doing things for me. I am blessed to have her.
I ran errands yesterday, including to the cleaners and then went to the park. where I did not see nearly as many birds as I saw around Lynch Lake. Ibis, ducks, wood storks and moor hens, all were gathered around and in the lake yesterday. God is good!
From the NASB
Romans 15:
We then who are strong ought to bear with the scruples of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please the neighbor for his good leading to edification.
For even Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, "The approaches of those who reproached You fell on me."...
Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus, that you may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and Father.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Of our Lord Jesus Christ.
I hope you all who have had clear skies have been able to see Jupiter beside the full moon night before last. Last night, Jupiter was way off to the right of the moon, but still shining brightly! "The majesty and glory of his name". What a sight!
The icicle lights are up all around the house,thanks to Rick, but nothing much has been done to the inside, yet. Putting up the all the time things and getting out the decorations is the hardest. My friend, Cheryl, from across the street gave me a timer to use for the outside lights, and set it to go on and then off. After a couple glitches, it worked, so I don't have to go in the garage to turn the lights off, when I go to bed. She is always doing things for me. I am blessed to have her.
I ran errands yesterday, including to the cleaners and then went to the park. where I did not see nearly as many birds as I saw around Lynch Lake. Ibis, ducks, wood storks and moor hens, all were gathered around and in the lake yesterday. God is good!
From the NASB
Romans 15:
We then who are strong ought to bear with the scruples of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please the neighbor for his good leading to edification.
For even Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, "The approaches of those who reproached You fell on me."...
Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus, that you may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and Father.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
The Advantage of Companionship
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! We had a lot of fog earlier, but now the sun is shining and it is warming up. Another beautiful day!
Rick, my handy man came early and put up the outside Christmas lights, cleaned out the rain gutter, which was full of leaves and acorns, and changed a bulb in the kitchen. He is a good man, and I am blessed to know someone who can do work for me. He said he is two weeks behind in his work, so I am not the only one who relies on him.
I went to Cartek yesterday when I noticed I had a front tire which looked a little soft, and Ray checked all the tires and said they were a little low on air. Tomorrow I take the car in for service. Ray is a good man, too! After I left the shop, I stopped in at the Park, to check it out and saw three wood storks standing along the bank of the canal, just looking in the water. That's a little unusual,seeing them there, because they usually do not hang out at the park. I also saw the usual anhinga drying wings and a few ibis pecking along. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ecclesiastes 4:7-12
I observed yet another example of meaningless in our world.
This is the case of a man who is all alone, without a child or a brother,
yet who works hard to gain as much wealth as he can.
But then he asks himself, Who am I working for?
Why am I giving up so much pleasure now? It is all so
meaningless and depressing.
Two people can accomplish more than twice as much
as one; they get a better return for their labor.
If one person falls, the other can reach out and help.
But people who are alone when they fall are in real
trouble. And on a cold night, two under the same
blanket can gain warmth from each other. But how
can one be warm alone? A person standing alone
can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand
back- to- back and conquer. Three are even better,
for a triple- braided cord is not easily broken.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Rick, my handy man came early and put up the outside Christmas lights, cleaned out the rain gutter, which was full of leaves and acorns, and changed a bulb in the kitchen. He is a good man, and I am blessed to know someone who can do work for me. He said he is two weeks behind in his work, so I am not the only one who relies on him.
I went to Cartek yesterday when I noticed I had a front tire which looked a little soft, and Ray checked all the tires and said they were a little low on air. Tomorrow I take the car in for service. Ray is a good man, too! After I left the shop, I stopped in at the Park, to check it out and saw three wood storks standing along the bank of the canal, just looking in the water. That's a little unusual,seeing them there, because they usually do not hang out at the park. I also saw the usual anhinga drying wings and a few ibis pecking along. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ecclesiastes 4:7-12
I observed yet another example of meaningless in our world.
This is the case of a man who is all alone, without a child or a brother,
yet who works hard to gain as much wealth as he can.
But then he asks himself, Who am I working for?
Why am I giving up so much pleasure now? It is all so
meaningless and depressing.
Two people can accomplish more than twice as much
as one; they get a better return for their labor.
If one person falls, the other can reach out and help.
But people who are alone when they fall are in real
trouble. And on a cold night, two under the same
blanket can gain warmth from each other. But how
can one be warm alone? A person standing alone
can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand
back- to- back and conquer. Three are even better,
for a triple- braided cord is not easily broken.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
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