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 may have fog clouds, but there is a high, hazy cloud cover this morning, And it is so warm that I turned on the A/C yesterday and won't be turning it off any time soon!
I was able to get the porch swept off yesterday without too much sneezing, but will have to do it all over again today. Hopefully, spring will come soon and the new green leaves will eliminate the pesky seeds, which are making the pollen fly! As the wind blows, I can see them dive-bombing the ground past my window. The yard is just covered with them.
I watched the imploding of the old Progress Energy chimneys, on TV. They have been a landmark since 1958. If I had known sooner, I could have driven to Gandy beach and joined the hundreds there who were watching it live. Everything keeps changing. Sigh. Since I was born in St. Petersburg, there have been many changes, not all of them good, but it is good to see downtown hopping again! That was the place to go for movies and shopping when I was growing up...
As I went to the park yesterday, I saw several civilian cars parked just over the weir doing something. There was a county truck parked with them, but I was really curious about what was going on. Guess I will be nosy and ask Dave, my yard man, who is a park ranger. Not many people were out, but those who were, were all hanging over the bridge watching what must have been a gator swimming under. I saw the gopher and lots of squirrels chasing each other up and down the trees, just like they do in my trees. They are so fast! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Teaching about money and possessions; Luke 12:22-32
Then turning to his disciples, Jesus said, "So I tell you, don't worry about everyday life---whether you have enough food to eat or clothes to wear. For life consists of far more than food and clothing. Look at the ravens. They don't need to plant or harvest or put food in barns because God feeds them. and you are far more valuable to him than any birds!Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? OF course not! And if worry can't do little things like that, what's the use of worrying over bigger things?` Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don't work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and gone tomorrow, won't he more surely care for you? You have so little faith! And don't worry about food---what to eat and drink. Don't worry whether God will provide it for you. These things dominate the thoughts of most people, but your Father already knows your needs. He will give you all you need from day to day if you make the Kingdom of God your primary concern.
So don't be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Worry less
Good morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Another day of blue skies and sunshine and pollen. But the skies have been putting on a show for us lately! As I was driving yesterday, I noticed different cloud formations and one in particular caught my attention. It was a series of wavy lines, sort of like a xylophone keyboard and it stayed visible for a long time.Then last night, once again, Jupiter, Venus and the crescent moon were putting on a spectacular display. God was displaying his handiwork!
I have to sweep off the porch today, which is covered with oak seeds, and I dread that, because of the sneezes. I usually dust off my shoes before coming in the house, so I don't track the stuff in here. I stopped in at the park after going to Walmart to get gas, (ouch) and saw the gopher tortoise heading back into his tunnel, but no big gator yesterday. However, there were three turtles on the side of the weir, catching some rays.
I also saw something so cute in the parking lot at the library! Two squirrels were on the trunk of a palm tree and they turned face to face and kissed each other! So sweet! God is good!
From the little devotional book Knowing God:
Worry Less
Do not worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need,
always giving thanks.
Philippians 4:6 NCV
In the game of life, you win some, and you lose some. Life is risky business; you live in an uncertain world, a world in which trouble may come calling at any moment. No wonder you may find yourself feeling a little panicky at times.
Do you sometimes spend more time worrying about a problem than you spend solving it? If so, here's a strategy for dealing with your worries. Take them to God Take your troubles to Him; take your fears to Him; take your doubts to Him ; take your weaknesses to Him; take your sorrows to Him...and leave them all there.
God is the rock that cannot be moved. When you build your life upon that Rock, you have absolutely no need to worry...not now, not ever.
Lord, when we trust in things of this earth, we will be disappointed. But, when we put our faith in you, we are secure. You are our rock and our shield. Upon your firm foundation we will build our lives. When we are worried, Lord, let us trust in You. You will love us and protect us, and You will share Your boundless grace today, tomorrow, and forever. Amen
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I have to sweep off the porch today, which is covered with oak seeds, and I dread that, because of the sneezes. I usually dust off my shoes before coming in the house, so I don't track the stuff in here. I stopped in at the park after going to Walmart to get gas, (ouch) and saw the gopher tortoise heading back into his tunnel, but no big gator yesterday. However, there were three turtles on the side of the weir, catching some rays.
I also saw something so cute in the parking lot at the library! Two squirrels were on the trunk of a palm tree and they turned face to face and kissed each other! So sweet! God is good!
From the little devotional book Knowing God:
Worry Less
Do not worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need,
always giving thanks.
Philippians 4:6 NCV
In the game of life, you win some, and you lose some. Life is risky business; you live in an uncertain world, a world in which trouble may come calling at any moment. No wonder you may find yourself feeling a little panicky at times.
Do you sometimes spend more time worrying about a problem than you spend solving it? If so, here's a strategy for dealing with your worries. Take them to God Take your troubles to Him; take your fears to Him; take your doubts to Him ; take your weaknesses to Him; take your sorrows to Him...and leave them all there.
God is the rock that cannot be moved. When you build your life upon that Rock, you have absolutely no need to worry...not now, not ever.
Lord, when we trust in things of this earth, we will be disappointed. But, when we put our faith in you, we are secure. You are our rock and our shield. Upon your firm foundation we will build our lives. When we are worried, Lord, let us trust in You. You will love us and protect us, and You will share Your boundless grace today, tomorrow, and forever. Amen
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, February 27, 2012
Psoaring thru Psalm 118
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 expected rain today, but the sun has been shining, although it is overcast and the pollen is flying from the oak trees. Friday the porch was blown clear by Dave, the yard man, but today the seeds are arranged in windrows across the porch. I can also see some caught in the hedge outside my window. And the park streets are covered! Not a good time to walk there if you have allergies!
I had the van detailed Friday, thanks to a gift card that Brian gave me for Christmas. They had it for three hours, but did an excellent job on it! It looks like new inside with the dash all polished and every speck of dust gone. I was almost afraid to drive it to church yesterday, for fear it would get rained on! First good deep cleaning it had had since I bought it about four years ago. Since it is parked in the garage, it does not gather yellow pollen like the car I parked next to. Oh, well, this too, shall pass.
I saw the big gator at the park yesterday. He was hanging out at the bank of the lake, as usual, which was a little surprising since the sky was so overcast. Not many people were out and about, but the squirrels and egrets were busy pecking and looking for lunch. Speaking of pecking, a very large flock of ibis landed across the street yesterday, and stayed a minute or two, and then took off. They are so pretty! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Happy are the people of integrity.
who follow the law of the Lord.
Happy are those who obey his decrees
and search for him with all their hearts.
They do not compromise with evil,
and they walk only in his paths.
You have charged us
to keep your commandments carefully.
Oh, that my actions would consistently
reflect your principles!
Then I will not be disgraced
when I compare my life with your commands.
When I learn your righteous laws,
I will thanks you by living as I should!
I will obey your principles.
Please don't give up on me!
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I had the van detailed Friday, thanks to a gift card that Brian gave me for Christmas. They had it for three hours, but did an excellent job on it! It looks like new inside with the dash all polished and every speck of dust gone. I was almost afraid to drive it to church yesterday, for fear it would get rained on! First good deep cleaning it had had since I bought it about four years ago. Since it is parked in the garage, it does not gather yellow pollen like the car I parked next to. Oh, well, this too, shall pass.
I saw the big gator at the park yesterday. He was hanging out at the bank of the lake, as usual, which was a little surprising since the sky was so overcast. Not many people were out and about, but the squirrels and egrets were busy pecking and looking for lunch. Speaking of pecking, a very large flock of ibis landed across the street yesterday, and stayed a minute or two, and then took off. They are so pretty! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Happy are the people of integrity.
who follow the law of the Lord.
Happy are those who obey his decrees
and search for him with all their hearts.
They do not compromise with evil,
and they walk only in his paths.
You have charged us
to keep your commandments carefully.
Oh, that my actions would consistently
reflect your principles!
Then I will not be disgraced
when I compare my life with your commands.
When I learn your righteous laws,
I will thanks you by living as I should!
I will obey your principles.
Please don't give up on me!
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, February 24, 2012
Psoaring thru Psalm 37
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! It's another windy and warm day, but lots of sunshine already this morning. I actually turned on the A/C last night! I didn't want to open any windows because of the high pollen count, and it seemed a little warm in the house, but this morning it is comfortable, so no air and no heat. Perfect!
I drove out to Happy Feet yesterday afternoon and tried to find shoes to make my feet happy. I came home with a pair of Birkenstock flip flops, (pink) and a pair of closed toe Mary Jane type Aertrex shoes. I haven't been wearing them yet, but have been trying to get used to the sandals. The right foot is comfy, but the left is giving me trouble. The shoes are returnable within thirty days, and that seems more than reasonable to me! Busy streets, people hurrying everywhere. Reminds me of the song, "People Need the Lord."
On my way home from shopping, I was waiting for the light at 49th and 62nd and a very large truck hauling a very large boat made a left turn off 49th onto 62nd . What was unusual was that the boat had no markings, but had two serious looking guns mounted on the sides. My first thought was that it might be a Coast Guard vehicle, but I guess I will never know. It disappeared before I could catch up to it.
I saw an egret in the distance as I drove into the park, past the turtles, and saw the man who lives in his car, cooking a meal, and lots of people visiting and enjoying the walk and pollen which is falling all over the cars and street. The gopher tortoise was headed back into his tunnel and picnickers and children were playing. It was a good day! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 37:1-9
Don't worry about the wicked.
Don't envy those who do wrong.
For like grass, they soon fade away
like springtime flowers, they soon wither.
Trust in the Lord and do good.
Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.
Take delight in the Lord and He will give you your heart's desires.
Commit everything you do to the Lord.
Trust him and he will help you.
He will make your innocence as clear as the dawn.
And the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun.
Be still in the presence of the Lord,
and wait patiently for him to act.
Don't worry about evil people who prosper
or fret about their wicked schemes.
Stop your anger!
Turn from your rage!
Do not envy others-- it only leads to harm.
For the wicked will be destroyed,
but those who trust in the Lord will possess the land.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I drove out to Happy Feet yesterday afternoon and tried to find shoes to make my feet happy. I came home with a pair of Birkenstock flip flops, (pink) and a pair of closed toe Mary Jane type Aertrex shoes. I haven't been wearing them yet, but have been trying to get used to the sandals. The right foot is comfy, but the left is giving me trouble. The shoes are returnable within thirty days, and that seems more than reasonable to me! Busy streets, people hurrying everywhere. Reminds me of the song, "People Need the Lord."
On my way home from shopping, I was waiting for the light at 49th and 62nd and a very large truck hauling a very large boat made a left turn off 49th onto 62nd . What was unusual was that the boat had no markings, but had two serious looking guns mounted on the sides. My first thought was that it might be a Coast Guard vehicle, but I guess I will never know. It disappeared before I could catch up to it.
I saw an egret in the distance as I drove into the park, past the turtles, and saw the man who lives in his car, cooking a meal, and lots of people visiting and enjoying the walk and pollen which is falling all over the cars and street. The gopher tortoise was headed back into his tunnel and picnickers and children were playing. It was a good day! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 37:1-9
Don't worry about the wicked.
Don't envy those who do wrong.
For like grass, they soon fade away
like springtime flowers, they soon wither.
Trust in the Lord and do good.
Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.
Take delight in the Lord and He will give you your heart's desires.
Commit everything you do to the Lord.
Trust him and he will help you.
He will make your innocence as clear as the dawn.
And the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun.
Be still in the presence of the Lord,
and wait patiently for him to act.
Don't worry about evil people who prosper
or fret about their wicked schemes.
Stop your anger!
Turn from your rage!
Do not envy others-- it only leads to harm.
For the wicked will be destroyed,
but those who trust in the Lord will possess the land.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, February 23, 2012
A Reason to Rise
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 what I guess are fog clouds hanging over us, but the wind is blowing and it is a lot more humid. Predictions are that there is a cold front coming in the next day or two, so we will see..,.
I notice that the mango trees next door are blooming, so it looks like they will have a good crop again. The neighbors have two big trees right by the street, so It is probably a temptation to passers by to just help themselves. I grew up with a huge mango tree across the alley from our house and we were always climbing up in it. We were always warned not to eat the green mangos or get the sticky sap on us, because of mango poisoning. I'm not sure if that would have really happened, but green mangos are so hard, it is impossible to bite them without breaking a tooth! Ah, the joys of childhood!
I see a lot of schoolkids and a couple of adults pushing themselves along on the metal scooters, now. When I was a kid, we used to make our own out of boards my Dad always had on hand, and old skate wheels. We had a long concrete driveway which was ideal for wheels of any kind. No electronic games then, so we created our own toys.
I tried to get the van detailed yesterday, and had an appointment, but when I got to the place, the guy said they had no one there to take me home (the gift card says pick up and delivery) and I had my cleaning ladies coming, so I decided to reschedule. A little frustrating, but it all worked out.
So, later, I went to the park and saw the black turtles sunning on the bank of the weir and a group of students gathered around the turtle, or whatever it is, in the cage, with the teacher teaching about their habits. (The turtle, that is.) The azaleas are just beautiful at the park and in front of the various houses around the neighborhood. God is good!
From Quiet Moments with God devotional book:
Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.
Isaiah 60:1 NASB
While camping deep in the woods, the first sense to attract our attention each morning is...smell. The aromatic whiffs of food cooked over an open flame are a wonderful treat to awakening senses. The savory aroma of bacon, sausage, and especially a fresh pot of coffee, gently moves through the forest and rests overhead just long enough to rouse the sleeping camper and produce a memory like no other. Years later campers talk about that experience as if they were reliving it, almost capable of smelling the coffee right then. It's a wake up call campers fondly cherish.
Each of us has moments like these that provide a platform for memories past that are special to us. These classic times of pleasure linger in our minds, much like the smells of a delicious breakfast on a long ago camping trip. The first call of the morning brings us into the new day and helps to set the pace and tone for the tasks ahead.
Could it be that as followers of Christ, we experience wake-up calls in our lives that are for more than just reminiscing? Our wake-up calls, lessons, learned and "deserts crossed" with God's help and presence, can turn these experiences into opportunities that allow God's loving plans for our lives to shine through us to a lost and depraved world.
Isaiah shouted, "Arise, shine!". Share the joy of knowing Christ with others. There are many who would otherwise never awaken to become a child of God unless you share the joy of knowing Christ with them.
Become the aroma of Christ.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I notice that the mango trees next door are blooming, so it looks like they will have a good crop again. The neighbors have two big trees right by the street, so It is probably a temptation to passers by to just help themselves. I grew up with a huge mango tree across the alley from our house and we were always climbing up in it. We were always warned not to eat the green mangos or get the sticky sap on us, because of mango poisoning. I'm not sure if that would have really happened, but green mangos are so hard, it is impossible to bite them without breaking a tooth! Ah, the joys of childhood!
I see a lot of schoolkids and a couple of adults pushing themselves along on the metal scooters, now. When I was a kid, we used to make our own out of boards my Dad always had on hand, and old skate wheels. We had a long concrete driveway which was ideal for wheels of any kind. No electronic games then, so we created our own toys.
I tried to get the van detailed yesterday, and had an appointment, but when I got to the place, the guy said they had no one there to take me home (the gift card says pick up and delivery) and I had my cleaning ladies coming, so I decided to reschedule. A little frustrating, but it all worked out.
So, later, I went to the park and saw the black turtles sunning on the bank of the weir and a group of students gathered around the turtle, or whatever it is, in the cage, with the teacher teaching about their habits. (The turtle, that is.) The azaleas are just beautiful at the park and in front of the various houses around the neighborhood. God is good!
From Quiet Moments with God devotional book:
Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.
Isaiah 60:1 NASB
While camping deep in the woods, the first sense to attract our attention each morning is...smell. The aromatic whiffs of food cooked over an open flame are a wonderful treat to awakening senses. The savory aroma of bacon, sausage, and especially a fresh pot of coffee, gently moves through the forest and rests overhead just long enough to rouse the sleeping camper and produce a memory like no other. Years later campers talk about that experience as if they were reliving it, almost capable of smelling the coffee right then. It's a wake up call campers fondly cherish.
Each of us has moments like these that provide a platform for memories past that are special to us. These classic times of pleasure linger in our minds, much like the smells of a delicious breakfast on a long ago camping trip. The first call of the morning brings us into the new day and helps to set the pace and tone for the tasks ahead.
Could it be that as followers of Christ, we experience wake-up calls in our lives that are for more than just reminiscing? Our wake-up calls, lessons, learned and "deserts crossed" with God's help and presence, can turn these experiences into opportunities that allow God's loving plans for our lives to shine through us to a lost and depraved world.
Isaiah shouted, "Arise, shine!". Share the joy of knowing Christ with others. There are many who would otherwise never awaken to become a child of God unless you share the joy of knowing Christ with them.
Become the aroma of Christ.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Be Disciplined
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 overcast today, but since I am taking the van in for detailing, I am hoping for no rain, at least, until I get it back and in the garage!
The yard will get mowed Friday, and surprisingly, it needs it. It has been a couple months since the last mowing, but since the grass is covered with oak leaves, it doesn't show much. The spring colors are really showing around town, with lots of blooms, so this is a colorful time of year.
As I drove around Lynch Lake yesterday, I saw a large flock of ibis, and a couple of woodstorks hanging around, along with the usual ducks. Then I went to the park and saw people standing at the edge of the lake looking at the big gator. The cars park right in the street, which is not good for traffic, but there is not a lot of traffic all the time, so it doesn't take long to pass. Another gopher was sitting on his front porch watching the traffic go by down by the canal, although with his eyes on the side of his head, I don't know just what he sees!
I dropped by my friend's David and Cheryl's, house to see David's latest toy...a jet ski, and chatted with them awhile. It is always good to see dear friends, who live so close! God is good!
From the little devotional book, Knowing God:
But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I, myself, should become disqualified.
1 Corinthians 9:27 NKJV
Are you a self-disciplined person? If so, congratulations...your disciplined approach to life can help you build a more meaningful relationship with God. Why? Because God expects all His believers (including you) to lead lives of disciplined obedience to Him...and He rewards those believers who do.
God doesn't reward laziness, misbehavior, or apathy. God is less concerned with your party time than He is with your prayer time. And God wants all His followers (including you) to behave with dignity and self-control.
So if you want to know God more intimately, try becoming a more disciplined person. When you do, you'll be rewarded-richly rewarded- for your efforts.
Simply stated, self-discipline is obedience to God's Word and willingness to submit everything in life to his will, for His ultimate glory.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
The yard will get mowed Friday, and surprisingly, it needs it. It has been a couple months since the last mowing, but since the grass is covered with oak leaves, it doesn't show much. The spring colors are really showing around town, with lots of blooms, so this is a colorful time of year.
As I drove around Lynch Lake yesterday, I saw a large flock of ibis, and a couple of woodstorks hanging around, along with the usual ducks. Then I went to the park and saw people standing at the edge of the lake looking at the big gator. The cars park right in the street, which is not good for traffic, but there is not a lot of traffic all the time, so it doesn't take long to pass. Another gopher was sitting on his front porch watching the traffic go by down by the canal, although with his eyes on the side of his head, I don't know just what he sees!
I dropped by my friend's David and Cheryl's, house to see David's latest toy...a jet ski, and chatted with them awhile. It is always good to see dear friends, who live so close! God is good!
From the little devotional book, Knowing God:
But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I, myself, should become disqualified.
1 Corinthians 9:27 NKJV
Are you a self-disciplined person? If so, congratulations...your disciplined approach to life can help you build a more meaningful relationship with God. Why? Because God expects all His believers (including you) to lead lives of disciplined obedience to Him...and He rewards those believers who do.
God doesn't reward laziness, misbehavior, or apathy. God is less concerned with your party time than He is with your prayer time. And God wants all His followers (including you) to behave with dignity and self-control.
So if you want to know God more intimately, try becoming a more disciplined person. When you do, you'll be rewarded-richly rewarded- for your efforts.
Simply stated, self-discipline is obedience to God's Word and willingness to submit everything in life to his will, for His ultimate glory.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
My Morning 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! A little cooler this morning, but sunshiny and beautiful! The azaleas are in full bloom in the park and my hidden one in the back of the house is gorgeous because of its dark pink colors. Only one in front has bloomed so far, but they have really grown this spring. I noticed an oak in the neighborhood yesterday that had the long seeds all over it, so that means lots of pollen in the air. I have started on Nasalchrom for my allergy to the pollen, which caused me to sneeze about a dozen times. But I managed to sweep off the porch without too much discomfort, because the leaves were damp, which really helped to keep the dust down.
I was pleased with myself because I managed to get some chores done around the house, that I usually have no trouble putting off, with a free conscience. I felt even better knowing I had them done! I went shopping after that for a few needed items and stopped in at the park, and saw a couple walking where it is forbidden because of a gator attack a few years ago. they were looking at the big gator sunning. The license said they were from out of town, so guess they are used to ignoring signs. Not saying which state.
Further down I spotted the very large, old brown gopher tortoise lumbering along, and lots of people enjoying the great weather! God is good!
My Morning Prayer
"Oh, God, for another day, for another morning, for another hour for another minute, for another chance to live and serve Thee, I am truly grateful."
Do Thou this day free me from all fear of the future from all bitterness toward anyone.
From all cowardice in face of danger from all laziness in face of work, from all failure before opportunity from all weakness when Thy power is at hand.
But fill me with Love that knows no barrier
with Sympathy that reaches all
with Courage that cannot be shaken
with Faith strong enough for darkness,
With Strength sufficient for my tasks
with Loyalty to Thy Kingdom Goal,
with Power to lift me to Thee.
Be Thou with me for another day and use
me as Thou will for Christ's sake, I pray.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs, Amaryllis
I was pleased with myself because I managed to get some chores done around the house, that I usually have no trouble putting off, with a free conscience. I felt even better knowing I had them done! I went shopping after that for a few needed items and stopped in at the park, and saw a couple walking where it is forbidden because of a gator attack a few years ago. they were looking at the big gator sunning. The license said they were from out of town, so guess they are used to ignoring signs. Not saying which state.
Further down I spotted the very large, old brown gopher tortoise lumbering along, and lots of people enjoying the great weather! God is good!
My Morning Prayer
"Oh, God, for another day, for another morning, for another hour for another minute, for another chance to live and serve Thee, I am truly grateful."
Do Thou this day free me from all fear of the future from all bitterness toward anyone.
From all cowardice in face of danger from all laziness in face of work, from all failure before opportunity from all weakness when Thy power is at hand.
But fill me with Love that knows no barrier
with Sympathy that reaches all
with Courage that cannot be shaken
with Faith strong enough for darkness,
With Strength sufficient for my tasks
with Loyalty to Thy Kingdom Goal,
with Power to lift me to Thee.
Be Thou with me for another day and use
me as Thou will for Christ's sake, I pray.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs, Amaryllis
Monday, February 20, 2012
Faith and Endurance
Good morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Bright sunshine, a few clouds and a gentle wind is what it looks like on this cool President's Day. Yesterday, I took my umbrella in to church because it was sprinkling pretty well when I arrived, but by the time I came out, the rain had stopped, although the clouds were very dark and threatening. I used most of the rest of my Boston Market gift card from Daryl and had a good lunch, and also, a senior discount card! Good things do happen when you get older!
Saturday, when I came home from errands, I saw something in the driveway, so parked, and sure enough, it was another dead baby bird, in the same spot others have fallen. It is a mystery, because there is no nest over head where the birds lie. This one had pinfeathers already, and looked like a mockingbird. I moved it out of the driveway, and because I was not through running errands, left it by the driveway.
When I came back, it was gone, so something took care of it...
When I went to the park, the big gator was on the right, and a anhinga on the left, drying out the wings. They are comical when they walk, but very sleek in the water! Lots of people were out each weekend day!
Our sermon yesterday was about the futility of worrying, which is what I try not to do, since God has so beautifully surrounded me with wonderful sons, caring friends and provision. God is good!
James 1:2-8
Dear Brothers and sisters, when ever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything.
If you need wisdom,--if you want to know what God wants you to do--ask him and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. People like that should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. They can't make up their minds. They waver back and forth in everything they do.
Christians who are poor, should be glad, for God has honored them. And those who are rich should be glad, for God has humbled them....
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
Saturday, when I came home from errands, I saw something in the driveway, so parked, and sure enough, it was another dead baby bird, in the same spot others have fallen. It is a mystery, because there is no nest over head where the birds lie. This one had pinfeathers already, and looked like a mockingbird. I moved it out of the driveway, and because I was not through running errands, left it by the driveway.
When I came back, it was gone, so something took care of it...
When I went to the park, the big gator was on the right, and a anhinga on the left, drying out the wings. They are comical when they walk, but very sleek in the water! Lots of people were out each weekend day!
Our sermon yesterday was about the futility of worrying, which is what I try not to do, since God has so beautifully surrounded me with wonderful sons, caring friends and provision. God is good!
James 1:2-8
Dear Brothers and sisters, when ever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything.
If you need wisdom,--if you want to know what God wants you to do--ask him and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. People like that should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. They can't make up their minds. They waver back and forth in everything they do.
Christians who are poor, should be glad, for God has honored them. And those who are rich should be glad, for God has humbled them....
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, February 17, 2012
Psoaring thru Psalm 98
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! I haven't seen the sun yet this morning, but lots of clouds and I know the weather map showed lots of showers in the gulf heading this way, so maybe we will get some rain, praise God! If the oak leaves are wet, then the pollen won't bother me so much.
I got lots of walking in yesterday, when I shopped at Walmart Neighborhood store. I am not too familiar with their layout yet, so I had to double back a couple times to find what was on my list, but, actually, it is more convenient than the super Walmart a mile or two further north, and not nearly so busy. They had left over Valentine's candy at half price, but I only bought one small box of chocolates! Such discipline I displayed!
I stopped in at Sawgrass later, and saw the big gator stretched out on the bank, sunning and across the street on the weir, more turtles. The large gopher tortoise was just coming out of his tunnel home and a large group of people were walking down the sidewalk. Students, I think. It was a beautiful, warm, sunshiny day. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 98
Sing a new song to the Lord,
for he has done wonderful deeds.
He has won a might victory
by his power and holiness.
The Lord has announced his victory and has revealed his righteousness to every nation! He has remembered his promise to love and be faithful to Israel. The whole earth has seen the salvation of our God.
Shout to the Lord, all the earth, break out in praise and sing for joy! Sing your praise to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and melodious song, with trumpets and the sound of the ram's horn. Make a joyful symphony before the Lord the King!
Let the sea and everything in it shout His praise!
Let the earth and all living things join in.
Let the rivers clap their hands in glee!
Let the hills sing out their songs of joy before the Lord.
For the Lord is coming to judge the earth.
He will judge the world with justice, and the nations with fairness.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I got lots of walking in yesterday, when I shopped at Walmart Neighborhood store. I am not too familiar with their layout yet, so I had to double back a couple times to find what was on my list, but, actually, it is more convenient than the super Walmart a mile or two further north, and not nearly so busy. They had left over Valentine's candy at half price, but I only bought one small box of chocolates! Such discipline I displayed!
I stopped in at Sawgrass later, and saw the big gator stretched out on the bank, sunning and across the street on the weir, more turtles. The large gopher tortoise was just coming out of his tunnel home and a large group of people were walking down the sidewalk. Students, I think. It was a beautiful, warm, sunshiny day. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 98
Sing a new song to the Lord,
for he has done wonderful deeds.
He has won a might victory
by his power and holiness.
The Lord has announced his victory and has revealed his righteousness to every nation! He has remembered his promise to love and be faithful to Israel. The whole earth has seen the salvation of our God.
Shout to the Lord, all the earth, break out in praise and sing for joy! Sing your praise to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and melodious song, with trumpets and the sound of the ram's horn. Make a joyful symphony before the Lord the King!
Let the sea and everything in it shout His praise!
Let the earth and all living things join in.
Let the rivers clap their hands in glee!
Let the hills sing out their songs of joy before the Lord.
For the Lord is coming to judge the earth.
He will judge the world with justice, and the nations with fairness.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, February 16, 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! Another sunny, cool day with wind picking up and maybe some rain later. But, the wind makes more leaves come off the oak trees and yesterday I discovered that it is not good for me to sweep or rake leaves. My nose starts dripping and I start sneezing, so I have finally developed another allergy or sensitivity! Well, I will just have to get someone to do the job for me.
Yesterday, I was driving around Lynch Lake and saw a large flock of ducks or anhingas, I could not tell which, on the grass all looking up. It was a funny sight to see all the beaks pointed up. If I had not been driving, I would have been tempted to look up to see what they were so interested in!(BTW, speaking of looking up, last night just after sunset, I went outside to look up and saw Jupiter and Venus putting on a show high in the sky! Beautiful! ) I drove on to the park later on, and saw the fat, wet, black gator on one side and several turtles on the other side, enjoying the warm sunshine. God is good!
From the little devotional book Knowing God:
Be Still
Be still, and know that I am God.
Psalm 46:10 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.
-Great Thoughts-
I have come to recognize that He never asks us to do anything He has not already done. He never takes us anyplace where he has not been ahead of us. What he is after is not performance, but a relationship with us.
Gloria Gaither
- Today's Prayer-
Lord, your Holy Word is a light unto the world; let me studay 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 Sond 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 was driving around Lynch Lake and saw a large flock of ducks or anhingas, I could not tell which, on the grass all looking up. It was a funny sight to see all the beaks pointed up. If I had not been driving, I would have been tempted to look up to see what they were so interested in!(BTW, speaking of looking up, last night just after sunset, I went outside to look up and saw Jupiter and Venus putting on a show high in the sky! Beautiful! ) I drove on to the park later on, and saw the fat, wet, black gator on one side and several turtles on the other side, enjoying the warm sunshine. God is good!
From the little devotional book Knowing God:
Be Still
Be still, and know that I am God.
Psalm 46:10 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.
-Great Thoughts-
I have come to recognize that He never asks us to do anything He has not already done. He never takes us anyplace where he has not been ahead of us. What he is after is not performance, but a relationship with us.
Gloria Gaither
- Today's Prayer-
Lord, your Holy Word is a light unto the world; let me studay 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 Sond 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
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
The Future Glory
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! At last, we have our warm weather back again! I know lots of people like the cold, but as I get older, I am not so much liking it. It makes my bones ache. So, it is good to have the heat off and a couple windows open later.
Yesterday, I spent a couple hours at Mari's salon getting my hair done and watching different people get attended to. She is a whirlwind of activity as she colors, shampoos, curls and trims all day. There was a big, burly man getting a color, and cut ,another man got a trim, and a couple ladies had already been in as she opened early for them. I have known her for thirty years, and she has only slowed down once and that was when she was ill. She is a precious friend!
On my way home, I stopped for a Biff-Burger, for the first time, and I was not impressed. I rarely eat burgers, but I know what I like and that was not it. Oh, well, lesson learned. On the way down to Mari's I had a few obstacles...first, 34th St. is being repaved at the overpass, then further on, several cop cars were doing a drug bust, at a closed motel right across from Taco Bell and in the middle of the street at 5th Ave., a lady had run out of gas, and two police cars were parked behind her, while her son ran across the street to get a can of gas. Then, I had to wait to get in Mari's parking lot for a delivery van to close the door so I could get by. After that, I found no parking spaces left in front, so had to park right by the alley, until some people pulled out. But it was all worth it!
After lunch, I stopped in at the park and saw a couple turtles on the bank of the weir, but no big gator at that time, and on in the park. lots of students waiting for their bus, and people walking and enjoying a beautiful day! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Romans 8:18-28
Yet what we suffer now, is nothing compared to the glory he will give us later. For all creation is waiting eagerly for that future day when God will reveal who his children really are. Against its will, everything on earth was subjected to God's curse. All creation anticipates the day when it will join God's children in glorious freedom from death and decay. For we know that all creation has been groaning in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. And, we Christians, although we have the Holy Spirit within us, as a foretaste of future glory, also groan to be released from pain and suffering. We too, wait anxiously for that day when God will give us our full rights as his children, including the new bodies he has promised us...
And the Holy Spirit helps us in our distress. For we don't even know what we should pray for, nor how we should pray, but the Holy Spirit prays for us in groanings that cannot be expressed in words....
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday, I spent a couple hours at Mari's salon getting my hair done and watching different people get attended to. She is a whirlwind of activity as she colors, shampoos, curls and trims all day. There was a big, burly man getting a color, and cut ,another man got a trim, and a couple ladies had already been in as she opened early for them. I have known her for thirty years, and she has only slowed down once and that was when she was ill. She is a precious friend!
On my way home, I stopped for a Biff-Burger, for the first time, and I was not impressed. I rarely eat burgers, but I know what I like and that was not it. Oh, well, lesson learned. On the way down to Mari's I had a few obstacles...first, 34th St. is being repaved at the overpass, then further on, several cop cars were doing a drug bust, at a closed motel right across from Taco Bell and in the middle of the street at 5th Ave., a lady had run out of gas, and two police cars were parked behind her, while her son ran across the street to get a can of gas. Then, I had to wait to get in Mari's parking lot for a delivery van to close the door so I could get by. After that, I found no parking spaces left in front, so had to park right by the alley, until some people pulled out. But it was all worth it!
After lunch, I stopped in at the park and saw a couple turtles on the bank of the weir, but no big gator at that time, and on in the park. lots of students waiting for their bus, and people walking and enjoying a beautiful day! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Romans 8:18-28
Yet what we suffer now, is nothing compared to the glory he will give us later. For all creation is waiting eagerly for that future day when God will reveal who his children really are. Against its will, everything on earth was subjected to God's curse. All creation anticipates the day when it will join God's children in glorious freedom from death and decay. For we know that all creation has been groaning in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. And, we Christians, although we have the Holy Spirit within us, as a foretaste of future glory, also groan to be released from pain and suffering. We too, wait anxiously for that day when God will give us our full rights as his children, including the new bodies he has promised us...
And the Holy Spirit helps us in our distress. For we don't even know what we should pray for, nor how we should pray, but the Holy Spirit prays for us in groanings that cannot be expressed in words....
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Valentine's Day
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! And since this is a day celebrating love, I will just say;
Happy Valentine's Day!!!
"And the greatest of these is love"!
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Happy Valentine's Day!!!
"And the greatest of these is love"!
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, February 13, 2012
Jesus teaches about serving others
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 cold day! If I could type with gloves on, I would., Personally, I will be glad to see the warm weather back! Yes, I have the furnace running, but I am still cold, because I have not been moving much. But, the sun is shining, and there is no snow, so we are blessed!
I drove to the Park after church yesterday and saw three black turtles sunning on the weir, and across the street, the big gator was also catching some rays. Maybe the water was too cold for him! Not a lot of people were out, but some hardy souls were bundled up and walking. While the sun was hot, the wind was chilly. I enjoyed conversations with my sons, but otherwise, had a quiet afternoon.
I watched the Grammy awards last night, and, I have to tell you, I am so out of it, that I never even heard of Adele, who won a lot of awards. In fact, most of the artists were totally unknown to me. Give me the Dove awards where I know the singers and what they sing! But, God loves all those people and He is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Matthew 21:20-28
Then the mother of James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Jesus with her sons. She knelt respectfully to ask a favor. "What is your request?" he asked.
She replied, "In your Kingdom, will you let my two sons sit in places of honor next to you, one at your right and the other at your left?But Jesus told them, "You don't know what you are asking! Are you able to drink from the bitter cup of sorrow I am about to drink?"
"Oh, yes," they replied, "We are able!
"You will indeed drink from it," he told them. "But I have no right to say who will sit on the thrones next to mine. My Father has prepared those places for the ones he has chosen."
When the ten other disciples heard what James and John had asked, they were indignant. But Jesus called them together and said, "You know that in this world, kings are tyrants. and and officials lord it over the people beneath them. But among you, it should be quite different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant. And whoever wants to be first, must become your slave. For even I, the son of Man, came here not to be served, but to serve others, and to give my life as a ransom for many."
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I drove to the Park after church yesterday and saw three black turtles sunning on the weir, and across the street, the big gator was also catching some rays. Maybe the water was too cold for him! Not a lot of people were out, but some hardy souls were bundled up and walking. While the sun was hot, the wind was chilly. I enjoyed conversations with my sons, but otherwise, had a quiet afternoon.
I watched the Grammy awards last night, and, I have to tell you, I am so out of it, that I never even heard of Adele, who won a lot of awards. In fact, most of the artists were totally unknown to me. Give me the Dove awards where I know the singers and what they sing! But, God loves all those people and He is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Matthew 21:20-28
Then the mother of James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Jesus with her sons. She knelt respectfully to ask a favor. "What is your request?" he asked.
She replied, "In your Kingdom, will you let my two sons sit in places of honor next to you, one at your right and the other at your left?But Jesus told them, "You don't know what you are asking! Are you able to drink from the bitter cup of sorrow I am about to drink?"
"Oh, yes," they replied, "We are able!
"You will indeed drink from it," he told them. "But I have no right to say who will sit on the thrones next to mine. My Father has prepared those places for the ones he has chosen."
When the ten other disciples heard what James and John had asked, they were indignant. But Jesus called them together and said, "You know that in this world, kings are tyrants. and and officials lord it over the people beneath them. But among you, it should be quite different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant. And whoever wants to be first, must become your slave. For even I, the son of Man, came here not to be served, but to serve others, and to give my life as a ransom for many."
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, February 10, 2012
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Lots of sunshine today, preceding the rain which is to come tonight or tomorrow, and the winter weather for another day or two. This has really been a mild winter so far...more like spring!
My azaleas are finally blooming and so are the ones at the park! They are so pretty this time of the year. It doesn't last very long, but bring beauty when we need it! I still have not found the name of the little yellow breasted bird I saw in the hedge yesterday, but used to see a lot of them at the park. All was quiet at Sawgrass yesterday..lots of people but not many animals visible, except for the ibis, which were decorating a tree hanging over the canal.
My friend and worker, David, used the Cover Up kilz I bought with the advice of Mr. Putnam at the hardware store, and it worked very well to cover the water stain from the leak in the roof of my fireplace room. I am blessed to have friends who do the work for me, He also did some trimming around the yard, where plants are really starting to grow, with the warm weather we are having.
I was surprised with a phone call from my nephew, who is a Major in the P.D. in Albany, GA. He was telling me about Ancestry,com. and the info his son found there. Apparently, they are related in some way with Bing Crosby and Sarah Palin. Russ says they both know how to tap dance! :o) (little political statement there.)
I went to the library after finishing my other chores and errands and came across several friends from church! Good place for people to meet! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Philippians 4:1-9
Dear Brothers and sisters, I love you and long to see you, for you are my joy and the reward for my work. So please stay true to the Lord, my dear friends.
And now, I want to plead with those two women, Euodia and Syntyche. Please, because you belong to the Lord, settle your disagreement. And, I ask you, my true teammate, to help these women, for they worked hard with me, telling others the Good News. And they worked with Clement and the rest of my co-workers whose names are written in the book of Life.
Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again, Rejoice! Let everybody see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon.
Don't worry about anything, instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all he has done. If you do this, you will experience God's peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
And now, dear brothers and sisters, let me say one more thing as I close this letter. Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned from me, and heard from me. and saw me doing, and the God of peace will be with you.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs, Amaryllis
My azaleas are finally blooming and so are the ones at the park! They are so pretty this time of the year. It doesn't last very long, but bring beauty when we need it! I still have not found the name of the little yellow breasted bird I saw in the hedge yesterday, but used to see a lot of them at the park. All was quiet at Sawgrass yesterday..lots of people but not many animals visible, except for the ibis, which were decorating a tree hanging over the canal.
My friend and worker, David, used the Cover Up kilz I bought with the advice of Mr. Putnam at the hardware store, and it worked very well to cover the water stain from the leak in the roof of my fireplace room. I am blessed to have friends who do the work for me, He also did some trimming around the yard, where plants are really starting to grow, with the warm weather we are having.
I was surprised with a phone call from my nephew, who is a Major in the P.D. in Albany, GA. He was telling me about Ancestry,com. and the info his son found there. Apparently, they are related in some way with Bing Crosby and Sarah Palin. Russ says they both know how to tap dance! :o) (little political statement there.)
I went to the library after finishing my other chores and errands and came across several friends from church! Good place for people to meet! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Philippians 4:1-9
Dear Brothers and sisters, I love you and long to see you, for you are my joy and the reward for my work. So please stay true to the Lord, my dear friends.
And now, I want to plead with those two women, Euodia and Syntyche. Please, because you belong to the Lord, settle your disagreement. And, I ask you, my true teammate, to help these women, for they worked hard with me, telling others the Good News. And they worked with Clement and the rest of my co-workers whose names are written in the book of Life.
Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again, Rejoice! Let everybody see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon.
Don't worry about anything, instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all he has done. If you do this, you will experience God's peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
And now, dear brothers and sisters, let me say one more thing as I close this letter. Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned from me, and heard from me. and saw me doing, and the God of peace will be with you.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs, Amaryllis
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Grace Tickets
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Another overcast day, but cooler, so I don't know whether to take my car in for detailing or not. It is supposed to rain Sat., so I probably should wait until the first of the week. This is a gift card from Brian from Christmas, that I haven't used yet! And the van really needs a good detailing inside!
I saw the most amazing sight last night. I knew the moon was full, so I peeked out the front door and saw this beautiful, bright glow from the moon shining above the layer of clouds ,casting a lamp-like light. I saw this through my huge oak tree which has lost many of the leaves,(and they are still falling), so it was truly amazing seen through that filter!
Then, this morning, outside my window, I saw a tiny, yellow breasted bird fly down and disappear into the thick hedge next door. I will have to look it up in my Peterson Guide. And yesterday, on one of my trips, I saw an osprey on top of one of those very tall electric line poles. And when I drove into the park, a very large, woodstork was standing beside a couple of small, black turtles, sunning on the bank of the weir. Across the street, in his usual spot was the large gator posing for a group of people taking pics. I also saw the very ancient brown, gopher tortoise, very well disguised, walking by his tunnel I thank God for my eyes! God is good!
From the devotional book, Quiet Moments with God:
"The one who comes to me, I will certainly not cast out." John 6:37 NASB
A Bible teacher once talked about God's "Grace Tickets". She said God makes himself available to us no matter how many times we reach out for an extra "Grace Ticket". His grace is available to us in liberal amounts. She even prayed that she would have the wisdom to know when to reach out and take another.
When the alarm goes off at 5:30 AM , it is all too easy to slip a hand out from under the covers and push that snooze button to allow for ten more minutes of sleep. You might repeat that movement every ten minutes, until 6 A.M. when the clock radio is programmed to come on
The minute the announcer's voice is heard, you are immediately jolted from bed, realizing you have overslept and must do in twenty minutes what would normally take fifty. The antics that take place in that room are worthy of a feature on a television comedy show.
We all need several of God's grace tickets for times in our lives when we attempt to put God and his timing on hold. Yet God had made himself available to us every minute of the day. We are privileged to call out to him no matter how severe or miniscule our situation. His grace is sufficient for each of us--at all times. He never runs out. It is up to us to open our eyes each morning and reach out to the Giver of all Grace Tickets.
Grace comes into the soul as the morning sun into the world.
First a dawning, then a light, and , at last, the sun in his full and excellent brightness.
Thomas Adams
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I saw the most amazing sight last night. I knew the moon was full, so I peeked out the front door and saw this beautiful, bright glow from the moon shining above the layer of clouds ,casting a lamp-like light. I saw this through my huge oak tree which has lost many of the leaves,(and they are still falling), so it was truly amazing seen through that filter!
Then, this morning, outside my window, I saw a tiny, yellow breasted bird fly down and disappear into the thick hedge next door. I will have to look it up in my Peterson Guide. And yesterday, on one of my trips, I saw an osprey on top of one of those very tall electric line poles. And when I drove into the park, a very large, woodstork was standing beside a couple of small, black turtles, sunning on the bank of the weir. Across the street, in his usual spot was the large gator posing for a group of people taking pics. I also saw the very ancient brown, gopher tortoise, very well disguised, walking by his tunnel I thank God for my eyes! God is good!
From the devotional book, Quiet Moments with God:
"The one who comes to me, I will certainly not cast out." John 6:37 NASB
A Bible teacher once talked about God's "Grace Tickets". She said God makes himself available to us no matter how many times we reach out for an extra "Grace Ticket". His grace is available to us in liberal amounts. She even prayed that she would have the wisdom to know when to reach out and take another.
When the alarm goes off at 5:30 AM , it is all too easy to slip a hand out from under the covers and push that snooze button to allow for ten more minutes of sleep. You might repeat that movement every ten minutes, until 6 A.M. when the clock radio is programmed to come on
The minute the announcer's voice is heard, you are immediately jolted from bed, realizing you have overslept and must do in twenty minutes what would normally take fifty. The antics that take place in that room are worthy of a feature on a television comedy show.
We all need several of God's grace tickets for times in our lives when we attempt to put God and his timing on hold. Yet God had made himself available to us every minute of the day. We are privileged to call out to him no matter how severe or miniscule our situation. His grace is sufficient for each of us--at all times. He never runs out. It is up to us to open our eyes each morning and reach out to the Giver of all Grace Tickets.
Grace comes into the soul as the morning sun into the world.
First a dawning, then a light, and , at last, the sun in his full and excellent brightness.
Thomas Adams
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
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