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 this morning, after an overcast afternoon yesterday. Already, I can see branches waving, which means the wind is picking up, so it will be another windy afternoon.
I went to the park after church and saw a birthday party taking place in the shelter, and lots of tables taken with picnickers and people taking photos of most anything unfamiliar to them. I see all kinds of dogs being walked, big, little, sometimes two at a time by one person. the gopher was not in sight, but the egrets were in place by the bridge and further on down the canal. It was a peaceful place! God is good! Saw the Rays win last night and that was good. too!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
John 15:1-8
I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch that doesn't produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit, so they will produce even more. You have already been pruned for greater fruitfulness by the message I have given you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine and you cannot be fruitful apart from me.
Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will bear much fruit. For apart from me, you can do nothing. Anyone who parts from me, and 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 ask, 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
Monday, April 30, 2012
Friday, April 27, 2012
Psoaring thru Psalm 119
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! Blue skies , sunshine, and cool breezes greet the day. I saw on Facebook a posting of pics of the huge hailstorm in Asheville, NC yesterday. Daryl said there was slight hail in Cleveland, TN, also, so they really had stormy weather there. Well it's quiet around here.
I started my day off by listening to a wonderful rendition of the Star Bangled Banner sung by Sandi Patty at the 100th anniversary of the Statue of Liberty, that I had Googled. Wow! The best ever sung! That got me going, at least as far as breakfast...
I saw a squirrel leaving the water bowl as I stepped outside to get the Times, which was balanced on top of the wall. Creative paper carriers! But, anyway, I took some peanuts out and put them on the wall, but I think the birds got them instead of the squirrels, because I saw a bluejay with one in his mouth. I throw the peanuts out under the trees and then they seem to get some of them.
Yesterday, I went to the park after a quiet day of trying to stay off my foot that was hurting. I enjoyed the quiet and followed an Indiana car that was going very slowly. I know the speed limit is 15, but come on, barely moving is a little much! Any way, I watched the squirrels and did not see the gopher tortoise at his home, but did see some egrets in the distance looking very Florida like a postcard. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 119:1-8
Happy are 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 thank 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 started my day off by listening to a wonderful rendition of the Star Bangled Banner sung by Sandi Patty at the 100th anniversary of the Statue of Liberty, that I had Googled. Wow! The best ever sung! That got me going, at least as far as breakfast...
I saw a squirrel leaving the water bowl as I stepped outside to get the Times, which was balanced on top of the wall. Creative paper carriers! But, anyway, I took some peanuts out and put them on the wall, but I think the birds got them instead of the squirrels, because I saw a bluejay with one in his mouth. I throw the peanuts out under the trees and then they seem to get some of them.
Yesterday, I went to the park after a quiet day of trying to stay off my foot that was hurting. I enjoyed the quiet and followed an Indiana car that was going very slowly. I know the speed limit is 15, but come on, barely moving is a little much! Any way, I watched the squirrels and did not see the gopher tortoise at his home, but did see some egrets in the distance looking very Florida like a postcard. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 119:1-8
Happy are 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 thank 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
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Acceptance
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 warming up, but still very cool in the early morning. Once again, I was very chilly last night. I thought I would be warm once I climbed into bed, but woke up very early and was so chilly I added my flannel jammy top, and went back to bed, only to still be chilly. So, even though it was almost time to get up, I put the fleece throw on the bed again and climbed back in to warm up. I will put the throw on tonight when I retire, because even if I get too warm, I can always "throw" if off!
I noticed that two of the small mangoes on the tree next door, blew off during the strong winds we had a couple days ago. Two more are left high in the tree top. They are about three inches long, but growing fast. I had a long, dead small branch break off from the oak tree from the wind, right over the driveway, so I put it in the dumpster and it got hauled away this morning.
Yesterday, I decided to enjoy the outdoors, so went over to the park, after finishing my ironing. I parked and got out at the sidewalk, and immediately heard all kinds of bird calls and the loud squawking of the moorhens. I have said before how happy the moorhen couples seem to be, but they certainly have a raucous way of communicating! The water in the canal was flowing swiftly, and was so clear I could see the bottom...something that is rare. Usually the water is murky. I walked on, keeping to the shade as much as possible, and saw a big and small turtle sunning on a dead log. I also saw what I thought was a hawk sitting amidst the hydrilla so still, it was not moving. But then, when it moved its head I saw the long beak, so it must have been an immature egret, because the feathers were brown and white speckled. I should have looked it up in my Peterson guide book. I was passed by several people, nearly all of whom spoke, including a kid on a bike. It was a good walk. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How can my faith help me accept circumstances I cannot change?
Romans 8:18, 23-25 What we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will give us later...Even we Christians, although we know the Holy Spirit within us is a foretaste of future glory, also groans to be released from pain and suffering. We, too, wait anxiously for that day when God will give us all our full rights as his children, including the new bodies he has promised us. Now that we are saved we eagerly look forward to this freedom. For if you already have something, you don't need to hope for it. But if we look forward to something we don't have yet, we must wait patiently and confidently.
Job 2:10 Job replied,..."Should we accept only good things from the hand of God and never anything bad?"
So, in all this, Job did nothing wrong.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I noticed that two of the small mangoes on the tree next door, blew off during the strong winds we had a couple days ago. Two more are left high in the tree top. They are about three inches long, but growing fast. I had a long, dead small branch break off from the oak tree from the wind, right over the driveway, so I put it in the dumpster and it got hauled away this morning.
Yesterday, I decided to enjoy the outdoors, so went over to the park, after finishing my ironing. I parked and got out at the sidewalk, and immediately heard all kinds of bird calls and the loud squawking of the moorhens. I have said before how happy the moorhen couples seem to be, but they certainly have a raucous way of communicating! The water in the canal was flowing swiftly, and was so clear I could see the bottom...something that is rare. Usually the water is murky. I walked on, keeping to the shade as much as possible, and saw a big and small turtle sunning on a dead log. I also saw what I thought was a hawk sitting amidst the hydrilla so still, it was not moving. But then, when it moved its head I saw the long beak, so it must have been an immature egret, because the feathers were brown and white speckled. I should have looked it up in my Peterson guide book. I was passed by several people, nearly all of whom spoke, including a kid on a bike. It was a good walk. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How can my faith help me accept circumstances I cannot change?
Romans 8:18, 23-25 What we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will give us later...Even we Christians, although we know the Holy Spirit within us is a foretaste of future glory, also groans to be released from pain and suffering. We, too, wait anxiously for that day when God will give us all our full rights as his children, including the new bodies he has promised us. Now that we are saved we eagerly look forward to this freedom. For if you already have something, you don't need to hope for it. But if we look forward to something we don't have yet, we must wait patiently and confidently.
Job 2:10 Job replied,..."Should we accept only good things from the hand of God and never anything bad?"
So, in all this, Job did nothing wrong.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Know Your Objective
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 the weather is beautiful and it's great to be outdoors, I was cold last night! I had put on my long-sleeved flannel p.j.'s last night, but did not add an extra blanket, and I actually started shivering along towards morning. So, I reluctantly got out of bed and pulled out a fleece throw, crawled back into bed and was comfortable for another hour, until it was time to get up. I also rescued my tiny space heater from the closet and plugged that in this morning! One last taste of winter and then, we will be simmering in the heat of summer for about six months! Hopefully, I will not complain...
I didn't do much running around yesterday; just a couple errands along with a trip to the park. All was peaceful there, as usual. I waited for five or six bikers to pull out of their parking spaces, since they did not seem inclined to wait for me to drive by, and off they went, no helmets, and ladies hanging on in the back. One gal had her head down on her driver's back and was practically hidden behind him. But It was a good day for a bike ride!
I saw several turtles plastered on the bank of the weir and the brown gopher tortoise walking along the mowed trail on the east side of the road. I also saw an unusual sight..an anhinga with the wings fully spread and slowly waving...I suppose to dry them off. Their wingspan is very large. Impressive! The water is still up in the canal and looks good, although the canal is very choked with hydrilla. Maybe they will clean it after the lake work is finished. God is good!
From the devotional book Quiet Moments with God:
The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor.
1 Corinthians 3:8
In the book Work and Contemplation, Douglas Steere tells a story from the Great Depression era when work was scarce, but people took great pride in whatever job they did. Instead of receiving welfare checks, able-bodied people were given what sometimes amounted to busywork in order to earn their pay. The program was created to add a measure of dignity to "being on the dole." Folks who did not have to take advantage of the program openly scorned it, while the workers who did join the program were often embarrassed they had to do so. Steer writes:
Some years ago I heard the labor expert, Whiting Williams, tell of a squad of day laborers who were hired one morning and put to work...the foreman...set them to digging holes some three feet deep. When a hole was finished, it was inspected and the workman was ordered to fill it up and to dig another hole of the same depth.
This went on for most of the morning, and finally the foreman noted the group talking in a huddle and then their spokesman came to him and said..."We're gonna quit...give us our money. You ain't gonna make fools out of us!"
The foreman's eyes narrowed, and then understanding broke over him, and he said quietly, "Can't you see, we're trying to find where the pipe is broken?" "Oh," said the man and after a hurried word with the others...returned and said , "Where do you want us to dig?"
Christians are frequently admonished to value one another's work and to work in a spirit of cooperation. This is easier when every member of the team clearly understands the objective. When the objective is finally attained, each is able to share in the satisfaction of seeing his or her contribution to the overall success.
Focus on the objectives you are working toward, and make certain the whole team has a clear understanding of the goals that have been set.
More men fail through lack of purpose than through lack of talent.
Billy Sunday
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs
Amaryllis
I didn't do much running around yesterday; just a couple errands along with a trip to the park. All was peaceful there, as usual. I waited for five or six bikers to pull out of their parking spaces, since they did not seem inclined to wait for me to drive by, and off they went, no helmets, and ladies hanging on in the back. One gal had her head down on her driver's back and was practically hidden behind him. But It was a good day for a bike ride!
I saw several turtles plastered on the bank of the weir and the brown gopher tortoise walking along the mowed trail on the east side of the road. I also saw an unusual sight..an anhinga with the wings fully spread and slowly waving...I suppose to dry them off. Their wingspan is very large. Impressive! The water is still up in the canal and looks good, although the canal is very choked with hydrilla. Maybe they will clean it after the lake work is finished. God is good!
From the devotional book Quiet Moments with God:
The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor.
1 Corinthians 3:8
In the book Work and Contemplation, Douglas Steere tells a story from the Great Depression era when work was scarce, but people took great pride in whatever job they did. Instead of receiving welfare checks, able-bodied people were given what sometimes amounted to busywork in order to earn their pay. The program was created to add a measure of dignity to "being on the dole." Folks who did not have to take advantage of the program openly scorned it, while the workers who did join the program were often embarrassed they had to do so. Steer writes:
Some years ago I heard the labor expert, Whiting Williams, tell of a squad of day laborers who were hired one morning and put to work...the foreman...set them to digging holes some three feet deep. When a hole was finished, it was inspected and the workman was ordered to fill it up and to dig another hole of the same depth.
This went on for most of the morning, and finally the foreman noted the group talking in a huddle and then their spokesman came to him and said..."We're gonna quit...give us our money. You ain't gonna make fools out of us!"
The foreman's eyes narrowed, and then understanding broke over him, and he said quietly, "Can't you see, we're trying to find where the pipe is broken?" "Oh," said the man and after a hurried word with the others...returned and said , "Where do you want us to dig?"
Christians are frequently admonished to value one another's work and to work in a spirit of cooperation. This is easier when every member of the team clearly understands the objective. When the objective is finally attained, each is able to share in the satisfaction of seeing his or her contribution to the overall success.
Focus on the objectives you are working toward, and make certain the whole team has a clear understanding of the goals that have been set.
More men fail through lack of purpose than through lack of talent.
Billy Sunday
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs
Amaryllis
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Matthew 6
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! Believe it or not, it is chilly this morning! I had put away all the winter stuff and now I am thinking I will need a blanket for tonight! Strange weather, but beautiful!
The wind really cleaned out the dead branches and twigs from the oaks yesterday. It blew fiercely most of the day, so the front porch was really littered. I swept it off after supper, but the wind was still blowing, so I talked to myself while sweeping what was blowing back from where I had already cleaned....I had an appointment with my podiatrist yesterday and when I arrived at his small waiting room, I could hardly enter because of wheelchairs all over the place. I thought I would have a long wait and was ready to reschedule, but turns out all the people were waiting for transportation back to their assisted living facility. They had been there since morning! So I only had about a fifteen minute wait and got my toes attended to. My feet are just plain worn out! Probably started when I went barefoot all summer growing up here. Then I went out to Walmart to gas up the van, and was very pleased to see that gas was 3.60 per gal. with my card!
I finished up my driving for the day by going to Steak and Shake to buy a yummy half price milkshake. I had already been to the park and seen all the greenery and a few people enjoying looking at critters in the water, as they hung over the bridge rail. I never fail to get excited by graceful egrets, and the colors of the lilies, trees and grass and a very large snapper turtle drying out on the bank by the weir. God is good! (speaking of critters, the large gecko is till in the house, in a bedroom, but getting skinny.)
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Teaching about Money and Possessions
Matthew 6:19-24
Don't store up treasures here on earth, where they can be eaten by moths and get rusty, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where they will never become moth-eaten or rusty and where they will be safe from thieves. Wherever your treasure is , there your heart and thoughts will also be.
Your eye is a lamp for your body. A pure eye lets sunshine into your soul. But an evil eye shuts out the light and plunges you into darkness. If the light you think you have is really darkness, how deep that darkness will be!
No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
So I tell you, don't worry about everyday life--whether you ave enough food, drink, and clothes. Doesn't life consist of more than food and clothing? Look at the birds. They don't need to plant or harvest or put food in barns because your heavenly Father feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than they are. Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Of course not.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
The wind really cleaned out the dead branches and twigs from the oaks yesterday. It blew fiercely most of the day, so the front porch was really littered. I swept it off after supper, but the wind was still blowing, so I talked to myself while sweeping what was blowing back from where I had already cleaned....I had an appointment with my podiatrist yesterday and when I arrived at his small waiting room, I could hardly enter because of wheelchairs all over the place. I thought I would have a long wait and was ready to reschedule, but turns out all the people were waiting for transportation back to their assisted living facility. They had been there since morning! So I only had about a fifteen minute wait and got my toes attended to. My feet are just plain worn out! Probably started when I went barefoot all summer growing up here. Then I went out to Walmart to gas up the van, and was very pleased to see that gas was 3.60 per gal. with my card!
I finished up my driving for the day by going to Steak and Shake to buy a yummy half price milkshake. I had already been to the park and seen all the greenery and a few people enjoying looking at critters in the water, as they hung over the bridge rail. I never fail to get excited by graceful egrets, and the colors of the lilies, trees and grass and a very large snapper turtle drying out on the bank by the weir. God is good! (speaking of critters, the large gecko is till in the house, in a bedroom, but getting skinny.)
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Teaching about Money and Possessions
Matthew 6:19-24
Don't store up treasures here on earth, where they can be eaten by moths and get rusty, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where they will never become moth-eaten or rusty and where they will be safe from thieves. Wherever your treasure is , there your heart and thoughts will also be.
Your eye is a lamp for your body. A pure eye lets sunshine into your soul. But an evil eye shuts out the light and plunges you into darkness. If the light you think you have is really darkness, how deep that darkness will be!
No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
So I tell you, don't worry about everyday life--whether you ave enough food, drink, and clothes. Doesn't life consist of more than food and clothing? Look at the birds. They don't need to plant or harvest or put food in barns because your heavenly Father feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than they are. Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Of course not.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, April 23, 2012
Wisdom
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Well, it was a different weekend. The weather was threatening, but it did not interfere with a beautiful celebration of life service for a beautiful friend who succumbed to cancer after a two year battle. The rain came down before the service was over, but did not stop the music or memories being shared.
We so needed the rain! It came down most of Saturday, and even Friday night. When I was over in the Publix parking lot when the skies were threatening. I sat and watched an osprey hovering over its nest on the light pole. There was a fish in his claws and he kept dropping down and lifting up. I think he was offering bits of the meal to the babies that were in the nest, Then he took off and later I saw him or his twin perched on the wire over Turner's creek, which was swollen and full from high tide and the rain.
I was impressed to see the water up at the park, and the egrets enjoying the fish floating by. I watched one egret lift his wings and take gracefully off, gliding along the water, looking for another good fishing spot. The gopher tortoise was lumbering up to his hole, causing some visitors to pause to watch. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What are the benefits of wisdom?
Proverbs 9:10
Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdim. Knowledge of the Holy One results in understanding.
Psalm 111:10 Reverence for the Lord is the foundation of true wisdom. The rewards of wisdom come to all who obey him. Praise his name forever!
Wisdom is not simply knowing facts and figures. It is understanding that an all-powerful, all-knowing God has designed a moral universe with consequences for our good and evil choices. Wisdom begins with understanding our accountability to and our full dependence on our Creator. It's not what we know, but who we know.
Proverbs 3:21-26 My child, don't lose sight of good planning and insight. Hang on to them, for they fill you with life and bring you honor and respect. they keep you safe on your way and keep your feet from stumbling. You can lie down without fear and enjoy pleasant dreams. You need not be afraid of disaster or the destruction that comes upon the wicked, for the Lord is your security. He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap.
Wisdom produces honor in our lives and protects us from trouble. Wise people know the difference between right and wrong and choose to do what's right. More than that, wisdom is choosing to apply God's truth and principles to our daily relationships and situations.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
We so needed the rain! It came down most of Saturday, and even Friday night. When I was over in the Publix parking lot when the skies were threatening. I sat and watched an osprey hovering over its nest on the light pole. There was a fish in his claws and he kept dropping down and lifting up. I think he was offering bits of the meal to the babies that were in the nest, Then he took off and later I saw him or his twin perched on the wire over Turner's creek, which was swollen and full from high tide and the rain.
I was impressed to see the water up at the park, and the egrets enjoying the fish floating by. I watched one egret lift his wings and take gracefully off, gliding along the water, looking for another good fishing spot. The gopher tortoise was lumbering up to his hole, causing some visitors to pause to watch. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What are the benefits of wisdom?
Proverbs 9:10
Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdim. Knowledge of the Holy One results in understanding.
Psalm 111:10 Reverence for the Lord is the foundation of true wisdom. The rewards of wisdom come to all who obey him. Praise his name forever!
Wisdom is not simply knowing facts and figures. It is understanding that an all-powerful, all-knowing God has designed a moral universe with consequences for our good and evil choices. Wisdom begins with understanding our accountability to and our full dependence on our Creator. It's not what we know, but who we know.
Proverbs 3:21-26 My child, don't lose sight of good planning and insight. Hang on to them, for they fill you with life and bring you honor and respect. they keep you safe on your way and keep your feet from stumbling. You can lie down without fear and enjoy pleasant dreams. You need not be afraid of disaster or the destruction that comes upon the wicked, for the Lord is your security. He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap.
Wisdom produces honor in our lives and protects us from trouble. Wise people know the difference between right and wrong and choose to do what's right. More than that, wisdom is choosing to apply God's truth and principles to our daily relationships and situations.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, April 20, 2012
Coping skills
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 and cloudy this morning. but, thankfully, we are expecting more rain this weekend.
What a wonderful rain we had yesterday! It didn't pour, but was just a quiet rain for about an hour or more. It was kinda noisy with all the slurping sounds of the grass and shrubs drinking the wetness!! :o)
I went over to the park later on, and very light sprinkles landed on the windshield all the way, but I drove right out from under the clouds into the blue sky and sun in the west, so the clouds all moved over to the east.
There was not a crowd at the park, I guess because of the rain, but things had really greened up. The gopher tunnel looked like a lot of water had dripped in, but no sign of the resident. The squirrels were out and did not even look wet, but they move so fast, they soon dry off. I watched some ibis pecking around hoping to find some grubs stirred up by the moisture.
I was thankful for the rain because I had no excuse for not vacuuming, which I did, and got some exercise. House cleaning is a good way to get moving, and since my ladies could not come this week, I decided to get going and do it! Good for me! God is good!
From the devotional book Quiet Moments with God:
My times are in your hand.
Psalm 31:15 NRSV
How we handle delays tells us a lot about ourselves. How do you handle a traffic jam when you left the house already late for work? What do you do when your flight is delayed because of mechanical difficulty or bad weather? How do you respond when the register in your checkout lane runs out of tape just as you get to the head of the line? Can you take a deep breath and enjoy a five-minute break at the railroad crossing when the guard rail goes down to allow a train to pass?
Consider how one man handled a delay. Just as the light turned green at the busy intersection, his car stalled in heavy traffic. He tried everything he knew to get the car started again, but all his efforts failed. The chorus of honking behind him put him on edge, which only made matters worse.
Finally he got out of his car and walked back to the first driver and said, "I'm sorry, but I can't seem to get my car started. If you'll go up there and give it a try, I'll stay here and blow your horn for you."
Things rarely go as smoothly as we would like, and we don't usually schedule ourselves any extra time just in case something goes wrong.
The ability to accept disappointments, delays, and setbacks with a pleasant, generous spirit is a gift of graciousness that comes from one who has received grace from others in pressured circumstances. Life is a series of choices, and no matter what situation we get in, we always have the freedom to choose how we are going to respond.
Refuse to get out of sorts the next time your schedule gets interrupted or turned upside down. Pray for strength to remain calm, cheerful, relaxed, and refreshed in the midst of the crisis. And always remember: God's plans for you are not thwarted by delays!
Never become irritable while waiting: If you are patient,
you'll find that you can wait much faster.
Unknown
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
What a wonderful rain we had yesterday! It didn't pour, but was just a quiet rain for about an hour or more. It was kinda noisy with all the slurping sounds of the grass and shrubs drinking the wetness!! :o)
I went over to the park later on, and very light sprinkles landed on the windshield all the way, but I drove right out from under the clouds into the blue sky and sun in the west, so the clouds all moved over to the east.
There was not a crowd at the park, I guess because of the rain, but things had really greened up. The gopher tunnel looked like a lot of water had dripped in, but no sign of the resident. The squirrels were out and did not even look wet, but they move so fast, they soon dry off. I watched some ibis pecking around hoping to find some grubs stirred up by the moisture.
I was thankful for the rain because I had no excuse for not vacuuming, which I did, and got some exercise. House cleaning is a good way to get moving, and since my ladies could not come this week, I decided to get going and do it! Good for me! God is good!
From the devotional book Quiet Moments with God:
My times are in your hand.
Psalm 31:15 NRSV
How we handle delays tells us a lot about ourselves. How do you handle a traffic jam when you left the house already late for work? What do you do when your flight is delayed because of mechanical difficulty or bad weather? How do you respond when the register in your checkout lane runs out of tape just as you get to the head of the line? Can you take a deep breath and enjoy a five-minute break at the railroad crossing when the guard rail goes down to allow a train to pass?
Consider how one man handled a delay. Just as the light turned green at the busy intersection, his car stalled in heavy traffic. He tried everything he knew to get the car started again, but all his efforts failed. The chorus of honking behind him put him on edge, which only made matters worse.
Finally he got out of his car and walked back to the first driver and said, "I'm sorry, but I can't seem to get my car started. If you'll go up there and give it a try, I'll stay here and blow your horn for you."
Things rarely go as smoothly as we would like, and we don't usually schedule ourselves any extra time just in case something goes wrong.
The ability to accept disappointments, delays, and setbacks with a pleasant, generous spirit is a gift of graciousness that comes from one who has received grace from others in pressured circumstances. Life is a series of choices, and no matter what situation we get in, we always have the freedom to choose how we are going to respond.
Refuse to get out of sorts the next time your schedule gets interrupted or turned upside down. Pray for strength to remain calm, cheerful, relaxed, and refreshed in the midst of the crisis. And always remember: God's plans for you are not thwarted by delays!
Never become irritable while waiting: If you are patient,
you'll find that you can wait much faster.
Unknown
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Psoaring thru Psalm 68
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 clouds around this morning, but I can't help but be doubtful that any rain will come, even though the weather people are still predicting..maybe. Always hedging..
I noticed a bluejay getting a drink from the bowl on the porch, but he was almost standing on his head to dip down, so I carried some water out and filled it up. While I was doing that, I saw a box truck and a pickup across the street in front of the vacant house.. Looks like someone has decided to purchase it, because two city pickups were there yesterday. Maybe we will soon have some new neighbors! Speaking of neighbors, yesterday evening, I was outside and saw a young man being pulled quite rapidly on his skateboard by his dog. I don't know what kind of dog he was, but he looked like he was laughing and really enjoying himself. They were really zipping along! I know, dogs don't laugh, but they look like it! They went on down the street, still zipping along, until the dog stopped to investigate something in a yard.
Well, my cleaning ladies had an unexpected client yesterday and had to clean out a large house for closing it up, so they were not able to do my house, but will try to get to it next week. This is a luxury I allow myself and really appreciate that they live right across the street from me.
So, I worked on the clothes I cleaned out of one closet and got them folded up into a box. Now I have about three more closets to go. Since I have outgrown the clothes, (or they have shrunk) I have been getting rid of the ones I thought I would shrink into. Not gonna happen!
I went over to the park in the late afternoon and found quite a few people there, walking and picnicking, and enjoying the beautiful weather.
On a sad note; Dick Clark passed away, and I remember watching American Bandstand and all the "new" artists he introduced before they became famous.
Also, Chuck Colson is very near to going home and what a legacy he leaves, with thousands saved by his writing and preaching. What a godly man! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 68:1-6
Arise, O God, and scatter your enemies.
Let those who hate God run for their lives.
Drive them off like smoke blown by the wind.
Melt them like wax in fire.
Let the wicked perish in the presence of God.
But let the godly rejoice.
Let them be glad in God's presence.
Let them be filled with joy.
Sing praises to God and to his name!
Sing loud praises to him who rides the clouds.
His name is the Lord----
rejoice in his presence!
Father to the fatherless, defender of widows---
this is God, whose dwelling is Holy.
God places the lonely in families,
he sets the prisoners free and gives them joy.
But for rebels, there is only famine and distress.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I noticed a bluejay getting a drink from the bowl on the porch, but he was almost standing on his head to dip down, so I carried some water out and filled it up. While I was doing that, I saw a box truck and a pickup across the street in front of the vacant house.. Looks like someone has decided to purchase it, because two city pickups were there yesterday. Maybe we will soon have some new neighbors! Speaking of neighbors, yesterday evening, I was outside and saw a young man being pulled quite rapidly on his skateboard by his dog. I don't know what kind of dog he was, but he looked like he was laughing and really enjoying himself. They were really zipping along! I know, dogs don't laugh, but they look like it! They went on down the street, still zipping along, until the dog stopped to investigate something in a yard.
Well, my cleaning ladies had an unexpected client yesterday and had to clean out a large house for closing it up, so they were not able to do my house, but will try to get to it next week. This is a luxury I allow myself and really appreciate that they live right across the street from me.
So, I worked on the clothes I cleaned out of one closet and got them folded up into a box. Now I have about three more closets to go. Since I have outgrown the clothes, (or they have shrunk) I have been getting rid of the ones I thought I would shrink into. Not gonna happen!
I went over to the park in the late afternoon and found quite a few people there, walking and picnicking, and enjoying the beautiful weather.
On a sad note; Dick Clark passed away, and I remember watching American Bandstand and all the "new" artists he introduced before they became famous.
Also, Chuck Colson is very near to going home and what a legacy he leaves, with thousands saved by his writing and preaching. What a godly man! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 68:1-6
Arise, O God, and scatter your enemies.
Let those who hate God run for their lives.
Drive them off like smoke blown by the wind.
Melt them like wax in fire.
Let the wicked perish in the presence of God.
But let the godly rejoice.
Let them be glad in God's presence.
Let them be filled with joy.
Sing praises to God and to his name!
Sing loud praises to him who rides the clouds.
His name is the Lord----
rejoice in his presence!
Father to the fatherless, defender of widows---
this is God, whose dwelling is Holy.
God places the lonely in families,
he sets the prisoners free and gives them joy.
But for rebels, there is only famine and distress.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
The Good Soil
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, I am hearing reports from the weather people that rain is possibly in the forecast! Yay! We need it so badly! The birds and squirrels are still visiting the bowl I have on the porch wall, because as far as I know, none of the gutters around the neighborhood have any water in them from lawns being watered. I have never seen a bird drink from a lake or canal, but they have to get water somehow.
Yesterday I accomplished some errands I had been putting off. I went to CVS, where I came across my friend, Karin, and we chatted for awhile, then I made a trip to the library, and then to the park. Before I went to the park, I stopped in at Dowdy Optical because my nose was very sensitive from the nose piece. The optician said it was a good thing I came in because the glasses needed major repair. One lens was coming out which was causing the glasses to sit crookedly on my face. So he fixed them up and fitted them in just about five minutes. He is always good to take care of my needs.
There were not many people at the park at the hour I was there, but the sun was shining and the wind was blowing. I saw a white egret standing far down the canal looking so Florida against the dark green background of the shrubs and trees. The leaves come back so subtly on the maples that before you know it, they are all green again! God is good!
From Quiet Moments with God devotional:
It had been planted in good soil by abundant water so that it would produce branches. Bear fruit and welcome a splendid vine.
Ezekiel 17:8
An employee approached his employee and said, "I've had ten years of experience on this job, and I'm still making the same salary that I made when I started. It's time that I got raise."
His boss retorted, "You haven't had ten years of experience. You've had one experience for ten years!"
Many of us feel that our lives could be described in the same way: one experience over and over again--or at best, boringly few experiences. When this is the pattern of our lives, we not only become depressed, but we also have no growth. Just as a garden needs fertilizer and nutrients to enrich its soil, we need the enrichment of activities and experiences to broaden our lives and stimulate our souls.
Joseph Campbell once said, " I don't believe people are looking for the meaning of life as much as they are looking for the experience of being alive."
How. then, may we enrich our lives? It must be intentional. Don't think that someone else can do it for you. There are multitudes of ways to get started:
. Take up a sport that you always wanted to play.
. Take your spouse or a friend out to dinner and the entertainment of your choice.
. Plan a trip to see something or someone interesting.
. Volunteer to do work that will help the less fortunate.
. Visit a friend that you haven't seen for awhile.
. Get involved in a place of worship that challenges you.
Participate! Learn! Sing! Read! Praise! Listen!
Give! Talk with your God! In experiences such as these, you will find the Source of all the excitement that you can handle.
Experience is the mother of truth, and by experience we learn wisdom.
William Shippen, Jr.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday I accomplished some errands I had been putting off. I went to CVS, where I came across my friend, Karin, and we chatted for awhile, then I made a trip to the library, and then to the park. Before I went to the park, I stopped in at Dowdy Optical because my nose was very sensitive from the nose piece. The optician said it was a good thing I came in because the glasses needed major repair. One lens was coming out which was causing the glasses to sit crookedly on my face. So he fixed them up and fitted them in just about five minutes. He is always good to take care of my needs.
There were not many people at the park at the hour I was there, but the sun was shining and the wind was blowing. I saw a white egret standing far down the canal looking so Florida against the dark green background of the shrubs and trees. The leaves come back so subtly on the maples that before you know it, they are all green again! God is good!
From Quiet Moments with God devotional:
It had been planted in good soil by abundant water so that it would produce branches. Bear fruit and welcome a splendid vine.
Ezekiel 17:8
An employee approached his employee and said, "I've had ten years of experience on this job, and I'm still making the same salary that I made when I started. It's time that I got raise."
His boss retorted, "You haven't had ten years of experience. You've had one experience for ten years!"
Many of us feel that our lives could be described in the same way: one experience over and over again--or at best, boringly few experiences. When this is the pattern of our lives, we not only become depressed, but we also have no growth. Just as a garden needs fertilizer and nutrients to enrich its soil, we need the enrichment of activities and experiences to broaden our lives and stimulate our souls.
Joseph Campbell once said, " I don't believe people are looking for the meaning of life as much as they are looking for the experience of being alive."
How. then, may we enrich our lives? It must be intentional. Don't think that someone else can do it for you. There are multitudes of ways to get started:
. Take up a sport that you always wanted to play.
. Take your spouse or a friend out to dinner and the entertainment of your choice.
. Plan a trip to see something or someone interesting.
. Volunteer to do work that will help the less fortunate.
. Visit a friend that you haven't seen for awhile.
. Get involved in a place of worship that challenges you.
Participate! Learn! Sing! Read! Praise! Listen!
Give! Talk with your God! In experiences such as these, you will find the Source of all the excitement that you can handle.
Experience is the mother of truth, and by experience we learn wisdom.
William Shippen, Jr.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Flower Power
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, dry day with lots of sunshine.The prediction is for rain this weekend and I really hope this is accurate!
I had a nice quiet day yesterday, folding some of the clothes I sorted out of one closet, reading and doing chores around the house. I went to the park and enjoyed the peace and quiet there for a while. Saw the gopher tortoise in position to head down into his tunnel. It must be quiet and cool deep into his home..the water is very low in the canal with lots of hydrilla, so a good rain would help to bring the water level up.
There must be a beauty berry bush blooming somewhere, because there are purple splashes all over my sidewalk. I am glad I park my car in the garage!
I think the Times carrier likes to sling the newspaper on the porch, because one of my poinsettias got clipped quite badly from the heavy Sunday paper. They rescued the paper and put it in front of the door, but the damage was done. I think the plant will survive, though. I appreciate that they are trying to put it on the porch after numerous calls asking them to. It was on the roof one morning, so they had to give me another one. But, they try, God is good!
From the devotional book ; Quiet Moments with God; (BTW, Louis and I visited Bouchart Gardens about twenty years ago, and it is beautiful)
We dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves. But they measuring themselves by themselves and comparing themselves among themselves are not wise.
2 Corinthians 10:13 KJV
Butchart Gardens is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Victoria, British Columbia. The elaborate display dates back to 1904, when Jenny Bouchart decided to transform pat of her husband's limestone quarry into a sunken garden. Today it is open all year and includes a botanical array of breathtaking beauty.
When one walks through these delightful grounds, it is impossible to choose the most outstanding exhibition. The plants are obviously healthy and well attended. Each provides colorful blossoms that are distinct, yet make a significant contribution in the overall scheme and design.
Likewise, part of our spiritual growth is to realize our importance in God's garden, especially when we exercise the talents and abilities He has given. Many feel inferior about their own gifts, and they compare themselves unfavorably with others. And yet God designs different people just as He created various kinds of flowers. The lily and the rose each have their own features. In fact, every blossom has its own unique characteristics. Tulips, lilacs, and hyacinths are not alike, yet each kind of flower adds a particular fragrance and beauty to any arrangement.
The same is true in life. Take a few moments to make an inventory of your gifts. Then ask the Holy Spirit to guide you. Through His power, you can make a difference in the lives of others as well as your own.
Give what you have to someone.
It may be better than you dare to think.
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I had a nice quiet day yesterday, folding some of the clothes I sorted out of one closet, reading and doing chores around the house. I went to the park and enjoyed the peace and quiet there for a while. Saw the gopher tortoise in position to head down into his tunnel. It must be quiet and cool deep into his home..the water is very low in the canal with lots of hydrilla, so a good rain would help to bring the water level up.
There must be a beauty berry bush blooming somewhere, because there are purple splashes all over my sidewalk. I am glad I park my car in the garage!
I think the Times carrier likes to sling the newspaper on the porch, because one of my poinsettias got clipped quite badly from the heavy Sunday paper. They rescued the paper and put it in front of the door, but the damage was done. I think the plant will survive, though. I appreciate that they are trying to put it on the porch after numerous calls asking them to. It was on the roof one morning, so they had to give me another one. But, they try, God is good!
From the devotional book ; Quiet Moments with God; (BTW, Louis and I visited Bouchart Gardens about twenty years ago, and it is beautiful)
We dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves. But they measuring themselves by themselves and comparing themselves among themselves are not wise.
2 Corinthians 10:13 KJV
Butchart Gardens is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Victoria, British Columbia. The elaborate display dates back to 1904, when Jenny Bouchart decided to transform pat of her husband's limestone quarry into a sunken garden. Today it is open all year and includes a botanical array of breathtaking beauty.
When one walks through these delightful grounds, it is impossible to choose the most outstanding exhibition. The plants are obviously healthy and well attended. Each provides colorful blossoms that are distinct, yet make a significant contribution in the overall scheme and design.
Likewise, part of our spiritual growth is to realize our importance in God's garden, especially when we exercise the talents and abilities He has given. Many feel inferior about their own gifts, and they compare themselves unfavorably with others. And yet God designs different people just as He created various kinds of flowers. The lily and the rose each have their own features. In fact, every blossom has its own unique characteristics. Tulips, lilacs, and hyacinths are not alike, yet each kind of flower adds a particular fragrance and beauty to any arrangement.
The same is true in life. Take a few moments to make an inventory of your gifts. Then ask the Holy Spirit to guide you. Through His power, you can make a difference in the lives of others as well as your own.
Give what you have to someone.
It may be better than you dare to think.
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, April 16, 2012
Joggin' thru Joshua
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 day without much needed rain, but we still depend on God's timing to bring what we need. Because I did not water them, my amaryllis have all died, and I don't know if the bulbs have dried up or not. Shame on me for not watering!
We heard a powerful sermon yesterday from the president of the Alaska Christian College, and afterwards, I drove to the Park before going home. As I was marveling at the light and shadows, and the crowd of people milling around, all out to enjoy nature's beauty, Louis Armstrong's voice came over the radio singing, "What a wonderful world." Perfect!!
It was a nice, quiet weekend with a lot of reading accomplished and some tasks around the house..more closet cleaning and not much else, but God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT: (the theme of our sermon yesterday).
Joshua 1:3-9
I promise you what I promised Moses: Everywhere you go, you will be on land I have given you--from the Negev desert in the south to the Lebanon mountains in the north, from the Euphrates River on the east to the Mediterranean Sea on the west and all the land of the Hittites. No one will be able to stand their ground against you as long as you live. For I will be with you as I was with Moses. I will not fail you or abandon you.
Be strong and courageous, for you will lead my people to possess all the land I swore to give their ancestors. 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 this Book of the Law 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.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
We heard a powerful sermon yesterday from the president of the Alaska Christian College, and afterwards, I drove to the Park before going home. As I was marveling at the light and shadows, and the crowd of people milling around, all out to enjoy nature's beauty, Louis Armstrong's voice came over the radio singing, "What a wonderful world." Perfect!!
It was a nice, quiet weekend with a lot of reading accomplished and some tasks around the house..more closet cleaning and not much else, but God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT: (the theme of our sermon yesterday).
Joshua 1:3-9
I promise you what I promised Moses: Everywhere you go, you will be on land I have given you--from the Negev desert in the south to the Lebanon mountains in the north, from the Euphrates River on the east to the Mediterranean Sea on the west and all the land of the Hittites. No one will be able to stand their ground against you as long as you live. For I will be with you as I was with Moses. I will not fail you or abandon you.
Be strong and courageous, for you will lead my people to possess all the land I swore to give their ancestors. 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 this Book of the Law 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.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, April 13, 2012
Living in the Light
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 don't have any smoke like yesterday, but the sky is hazy and I hope that means a little rain later on.
Dave, my yard man came yesterday, so since he comes about lunch time, I went to Subway to get a sandwich. I like to go to the one in Pinellas Park that has a drive-thru, so I had to wait through 3 lights at 70th Ave. and 34th St! I know traffic control likes to keep the heavy traffic moving on 34th, but the light only lets three cars through on the green, and the cars behind me were a block long. Really!! So, by the time I came home, the yard was mowed and Dave was blowing off the trimmings.
He was telling me the latest developments in his family. His Mom is in a nursing home, suffering from Alzheimer's and since we have known him such a long time, he watched Louis go through all the stages of Alz. and asks me questions about this horrible disease.Even though we don't share the same beliefs my faith and his lack of... we have interesting conversations, and I enjoy our talks.
I took a ride to Sawgrass later on and saw the gopher tortoise venturing out onto the newly mowed path next to the parking lot and a tri-colored heron in the canal. I still like to see the white herons outlined against the green backgrounds. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
1 John 5:10
This is the message he has given us to announce to you: God is light and there is no darkness in him at all. So we are lying if we say we have fellowship with God but go on living inspiritual darkness. We are not living in the truth. But if we are living in the light of God's presence, just as Christ is, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son cleanses us from every sin.
1 John 2:9-11
If anyone says," I am living in the light," but hates a Christian brother or sister, that person is still living in darkness. Anyone who loves other Christians is living in the light and does not cause anyone to stumble. Anyone who hates a Christian brother or sister is living and walking in darkness. Such a person is lost, having been blinded by the darkness.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Dave, my yard man came yesterday, so since he comes about lunch time, I went to Subway to get a sandwich. I like to go to the one in Pinellas Park that has a drive-thru, so I had to wait through 3 lights at 70th Ave. and 34th St! I know traffic control likes to keep the heavy traffic moving on 34th, but the light only lets three cars through on the green, and the cars behind me were a block long. Really!! So, by the time I came home, the yard was mowed and Dave was blowing off the trimmings.
He was telling me the latest developments in his family. His Mom is in a nursing home, suffering from Alzheimer's and since we have known him such a long time, he watched Louis go through all the stages of Alz. and asks me questions about this horrible disease.Even though we don't share the same beliefs my faith and his lack of... we have interesting conversations, and I enjoy our talks.
I took a ride to Sawgrass later on and saw the gopher tortoise venturing out onto the newly mowed path next to the parking lot and a tri-colored heron in the canal. I still like to see the white herons outlined against the green backgrounds. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
1 John 5:10
This is the message he has given us to announce to you: God is light and there is no darkness in him at all. So we are lying if we say we have fellowship with God but go on living inspiritual darkness. We are not living in the truth. But if we are living in the light of God's presence, just as Christ is, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son cleanses us from every sin.
1 John 2:9-11
If anyone says," I am living in the light," but hates a Christian brother or sister, that person is still living in darkness. Anyone who loves other Christians is living in the light and does not cause anyone to stumble. Anyone who hates a Christian brother or sister is living and walking in darkness. Such a person is lost, having been blinded by the darkness.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Philippians
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the smoky day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Yes, it's very smoky out from the wildfires burning way up on the Fl/Ga line. It has cleared up just a little now, but the air is full of it and people are advised to say in if we have allergies or respiratory problems. The wind is blowing, so maybe some of it will turn and blow out of here.
I am expecting my yard man to come and hate for him to have to work outside. He was taking his racing pigeons fifty miles up, to get them ready for a race, but I don't know how pigeons react to smoky air. I went to the park yesterday and noticed that it had been freshly mowed and looked pretty good. On the way there, I saw a woodstork by Lynch lake and then lots of people once I got there. Leaning over the bridge, where there are always interesting things to see in the water, and walking dogs, running and just enjoying the weather.
Hard to believe it was expected to be freezing in TN this morning, when it has been so perfect here, but God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Philippians 4:3-9
Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again--rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember the Lord is coming soon.
Don't worry about anything, instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. If you do this, you will experience God's peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
And now, dear brothers and sisters, let me say one more thing as I close this letter. Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and 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
I am expecting my yard man to come and hate for him to have to work outside. He was taking his racing pigeons fifty miles up, to get them ready for a race, but I don't know how pigeons react to smoky air. I went to the park yesterday and noticed that it had been freshly mowed and looked pretty good. On the way there, I saw a woodstork by Lynch lake and then lots of people once I got there. Leaning over the bridge, where there are always interesting things to see in the water, and walking dogs, running and just enjoying the weather.
Hard to believe it was expected to be freezing in TN this morning, when it has been so perfect here, but God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Philippians 4:3-9
Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again--rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember the Lord is coming soon.
Don't worry about anything, instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. If you do this, you will experience God's peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
And now, dear brothers and sisters, let me say one more thing as I close this letter. Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and 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
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Easin' thru Ephesians
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Another beautiful day of sunshine and clear skies with no promise of rain. But even though it has not been watered, the grass is growing and will have to be mowed this week. I have seen many blooming trees and shrubs, though, so some things thrive with very little water.
I did some ironing yesterday...I always put that off as long as I can, but it really doesn't take much time. Then I went to Steak and Shake for a hot dog and had to wait so long in the drive thru line that I kept turning off the car, so I would not waste gas. But I enjoyed the dog when I finally got home. I really like a hot dog once in a while, even though they are not so healthy.
I went to the park later on, and saw quite a few tourists, with kids looking over the bridge and walking around. It must be spring break some place, because this was during school hours. I saw the brown gopher tortoise at the entrance to his tunnel and a family walking around him to take a picture. A white ibis was posing in the canal and a tri-colored heron was a little further down. Squirrels were hanging around the cars parked in the circle, looking for handouts, so all was peaceful, though active! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Where do I find protection from the threat of evil?
Ephesians 6:10-18
Be strong with the Lord's mighty power. Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil. For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world. against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realm. Use every piece of God's armor of God's righteousness. For shoes , put on the peace that comes from the Good News, so that you will be fully prepared. In every battle you will need faith as your shield to stop the fiery arrows aimed at you by Satan. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray at all times and on every occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all Christians everywhere.
This is perhaps the Bible's most comprehensive teaching about the resources believers have to overcome evil. Spiritual forces lurk behind many of our conflicts. Therefore, we should not attack the people manipulated by evil but focus directly on the evil itself. We rely on truth, faith, the power of our testimony, the wisdom of God's work, and the power of prayer. When these are mobilized, evil succumbs, God wins, and we win.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I did some ironing yesterday...I always put that off as long as I can, but it really doesn't take much time. Then I went to Steak and Shake for a hot dog and had to wait so long in the drive thru line that I kept turning off the car, so I would not waste gas. But I enjoyed the dog when I finally got home. I really like a hot dog once in a while, even though they are not so healthy.
I went to the park later on, and saw quite a few tourists, with kids looking over the bridge and walking around. It must be spring break some place, because this was during school hours. I saw the brown gopher tortoise at the entrance to his tunnel and a family walking around him to take a picture. A white ibis was posing in the canal and a tri-colored heron was a little further down. Squirrels were hanging around the cars parked in the circle, looking for handouts, so all was peaceful, though active! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Where do I find protection from the threat of evil?
Ephesians 6:10-18
Be strong with the Lord's mighty power. Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil. For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world. against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realm. Use every piece of God's armor of God's righteousness. For shoes , put on the peace that comes from the Good News, so that you will be fully prepared. In every battle you will need faith as your shield to stop the fiery arrows aimed at you by Satan. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray at all times and on every occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all Christians everywhere.
This is perhaps the Bible's most comprehensive teaching about the resources believers have to overcome evil. Spiritual forces lurk behind many of our conflicts. Therefore, we should not attack the people manipulated by evil but focus directly on the evil itself. We rely on truth, faith, the power of our testimony, the wisdom of God's work, and the power of prayer. When these are mobilized, evil succumbs, God wins, and we win.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
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