Friday, May 31, 2013

Jude

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it!  We had no rain yesterday and even though a thunderstorm is predicted for this afternoon, maybe it won't happen. But it sure is hot!

Yesterday, my route to the dentist took me by the new Wawa, which had it's grand opening Wednesday. There was still a crowd around; lots of cars, but maybe that was because of the gas price which was 2.99 for reg.! There will be another Wawa open soon right across from The Bay Pines hospital. People really seem to like their sandwiches and smoothies, etc.

I survived the dental cleaning and x-rays, which almost make me gag, because of the framework that goes in the mouth. It usually hurts, when I have to bite down to hold it, but Danielle, the hygienist is gentle and tries to hurry , so it's bearable for a few minutes.

After I left there, I came back by the park, and toured through. It was quiet and not many people there in the late afternoon. I saw a pretty white egret standing in the water of the canal, and a couple squirrels were sitting up in the middle of the street with their little white bellies showing.

Then I went onto Publix which was good timing, because at that time of day, there weren't as many people in the store. It was round 4:30, too early for going home people and too late for the shoppers who like morning.  God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Jude 1:20

But you, dear friend, must continue to build your lives
on the foundation of your holy faith. And continue to
pray as you are directed by the Holy Spirit. Live in such
a way that God's love can bless you as you wait for the
eternal life that our Lord Jesus Christ  in his mercy is
going to give you. Show mercy to those who faith is
wavering. Rescue others from the flames of judgement.
There are still others to whom you need to show mercy,
but be careful that you are not contaminated by their sins.


A Prayer of Praise
And now, all glory to God, who is able to keep you from
stumbling, and who will bring you into his glorious
presence innocent of sin and with great joy. All glory
to him, who alone is God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ
our Lord. Yes, glory, majesty, power, and authority belong
to him , in the beginning, now and forevermore. Amen.

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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Thursday, May 30, 2013

1 Corinthians

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Well. we had thunder yesterday and dark clouds, but no rain, and today is starting out with sun and very warm temps. It is supposed to reach close to 90 again, but with a strong wind blowing, it will feel good in the shade!

I told you about the mango tree in the neighbor's yard. So, now there are more tiny fruits on the high branches and one large one that looks just about ripe, right next to my yard. Of course, the high hedge will keep it from falling toward my property, but I wish I could direct it! They have several mango trees, so I don't think they would miss one mango! :o)

My cleaning ladies came yesterday and I had a passionate discussion with one of them about the demolition of the pier. She is all for it and for the Lens...me, not so much. She is very opinionated, but the other friend is calm, compassionate and always looks out for me. They are interesting ladies. They and the husband of one of them, spent the weekend painting the outside of Kim's house. Cheryl says her is next!

I have a dental appointment this afternoon, clear across town, and I am not looking forward to that, although my hygienist is very nice. But, God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:
 
1 Corinthians 10:
Because of God's special favor to me, I have laid the foundation like an
expert builder. Now others are building on it. But whoever is building
on that foundation must be very careful. For no one can lay any other
foundation than the one we already have-Jesus Christ. Now anyone
who builds on that foundation may use gold, silver, wood, hay or straw.
For there is going to come a time of testing at the judgement day  to
see what kind of work each builder has done. Everyone's work will be
put through the fire to see if it keeps its value. If the work survives the
fire, that builder will receive a reward. But if the work is burned up, the
builder will suffer great loss. The builders will themselves be saved,
but like someone escaping through a wall of flames.


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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

1 Corinthians

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made
and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Sunshine again this morning, and yesterday, but what a rainstorm we had yesterday! Actually, we had two downpours; one, about 1:30 which I was out in, and the other around supper time. Since the car needed a bath, I was kind of glad to have the rain pouring down on me.

My yard man was here yesterday, so the rain came at a good time. Seems like the ibis like to peck around after a good rain and I saw a flock of them moving and pecking through into the neighbor's grass, late yesterday evening.

After leaving the library, I drove to the park, where few people were out, and then on to Steak and Shake for a strawberry shake, driving in the downpour. God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

1 Corinthians 3:5-9

Who is Apollos, and who is Paul, that we should be the
cause of such quarrels? Why, we're only servants. Through
us God caused you to believe. Each of us did the work the
Lord gave us. My job was to plant the seed in your hearts, and
Apollos watered it, but it was God, not we, who made it grow.
The ones who do the planting or watering aren't important,
but God is important , because he is the one who makes the
seed grow. The one who plants and the one who waters work
as a team with the same purpose. Yet they will be rewarded
individually, according to their own hard work. We work
together as partners who belong to God. You are God's field,
God's building--not ours....


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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Psoaring thru Psalm 15

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 in the long string of perfect, but dry, days we have had. Yesterday was great for beach and outside activities, since many people were off.

Brian made a safe return from TN after spending a few days with Daryl and Matthew. They had perfect weather, too , for their short trips to the Smokies and all around the scenic areas. . They enjoyed their time together and got to relax a bit.

Meanwhile, I saw some of the remembrance ceremonies at National Cemeteries and heard that the celebration at Bay Pines is one of the largest in the country. With about 3000 there, I was glad I went on Friday, when it was not so crowded!

When I visited the park yesterday, I had to stop to veer around a very large gopher trying to cross the road. One incoming car, stopped and the driver hopped out to rescue the critter and deposit him on the grass, out of harm's way.

I have noticed the Royal Poinciana's now in bloom and also, the beautiful magnolia are very colorful along with the jacarandas. This is a wonderful time of the year! God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Psalm 15

Who may worship in your sanctuary, Lord?
Who may enter your presence on your holy hill?

Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right,
speaking the truth from sincere hearts.
Those who refuse to slander others or
harm their neighbors or speak evil of their friends.
Those who despise persistent sinners
and honor the faithful followers of the Lord
and keep their promises even when it hurts.
Those who do not charge interest on the money they lend,
and who refuse to accept bribes to testify against the innocent.


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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Friday, May 24, 2013

Who Rules?

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!  Sunshine, nice breezes, high humidity and heat. That's the forecast for today and the rest of the weekend, so it sounds great for the beach goers and picnics outdoors!

Brian left this morning, for the drive to Sanford to catch a plane to Chatt. to visit with Daryl this
weekend. They should have cool weather at night and nice and warm in the daytime. I am sure Matthew will be happy to have something to do, because he has been a little bored, with school almost out.

Brian was over for a visit yesterday , to catch up with my bank statement, and then we went for a spin in my van to let him hear the sliding back and forth sound of something that sounds like it is in the door or someplace on the driver's side of the car. I only hear it when I turn a corner. Of course, it only sounded once, briefly, while he was driving. Go figure!

Spent a quiet day, and only rode through the park, noticing that few people were there. Lots of squirrels running about,and, of course, the usual ibis. God is good!

From the little devotional book; Knowing God:

Can you understand the secrets of God?
His limits are higher than the heavens; you cannot reach them!
They are deeper than the grave; you cannot understand them!
His limits are longer than the earth and wider than the sea.

Job 11:7-9 NCV

God reigns over the entire universe and He reigns over your
little corner of that universe. He is sovereign. Your challenge
is to recognize God's sovereignty and live in accordance with
His commandments. Sometimes, of course, this is easier said
than done.

Your Heavenly Father may not always reveal Himself as quickly
(or as clearly) as you would like. But rest assured, God is in
control, God is here, and God intends to use you in wonderful,
unexpected ways. He desires to lead you along a path of his
choosing. Your challenge is to watch , to listen, to learn...and
to follow.

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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Thursday, May 23, 2013

God's will

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 warm, sunny day in Paradise, with the promise of heat and humidity, blue skies, and puffy white clouds. Sounds like a good long weekend coming up!

I did some shopping yesterday, and after finishing, went to Steak and Shake for one of their steak franks. (Hot dogs to me). I ordered it with chili and cheese, but when I got home with it, realized there was no cheese on it. Oh, well.

I have seen the mama duck with her babies still in the neighborhood, but the flock has diminished in size. Some of the babies have disappeared while roaming all over the streets. Mama pretty much lets them go where they want, but she stands and waits patiently  for them wherever they are.

I went to the park later on, and all was quiet. Not very many people; just ibises pecking around. The moss is hanging lower and lower from some of the older trees, so it sways in the breeze. Very much Florida!

As I was opening the garage door and getting ready to take the dumpster down to the curb, My friend and cleaning lady across the street came over and said she would take it down for me! What a kind and caring person she is! I am blessed and God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Does God really have a plan for my life?

Psalm 139:3 You chart the path ahead of me and tell me
where to stop and rest. Every moment you know where I am.


Psalm 32:8 The Lord says, "I will guide you along the best
pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you."


Psalm 138:8 The Lord will work out his plans for my life--for
your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever. Don't abandon me
for you made me.


God has a plan for our lives. It is not an unthinking, automated
script that we must follow. It is a journey with various destinations
and appointments and a great deal of freedom as to the pace and
scope of the travel. God's plan for us will always have a sense of
mystery, but we can be certain that he will guide us as long as we
rely on his leading.

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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Roamin' thru Romans

Good Morning Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! We have overcast skies this morning, and the promise of rain again this afternoon.

We had a really good downpour late yesterday afternoon that gave the ground a good soaking. It must have rained for a good twenty minutes or half an hour! We needed it!

I did not do much yesterday...just stayed in and did laundry. I looked up florists in San Antonio, TX online and called one and asked for flowers to be delivered to our daughter's grave in Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery.  I wanted to have photos taken of it with the flowers and I was pleasantly surprised to find out that they do that regularly and will email the photos to me both before and after the flowers are placed! What a blessing!

I noticed some more tiny mangoes are developing on the neighbor's tree right outside my window. The first ones fell off, but maybe these will stay on the branch. I also watched two crazy tiny bugs flying in very tight, very fast circles back and forth in front of the hedge. I have no idea what they are, but God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Romans 15:2-7
We should please others. If we do what helps them,
we will build them up in the Lord. For even Christ
did not please himself. As the Scriptures say, "Those
who insult you, are also insulting me." Such things
were written in the scriptures long ago to teach us.
They give us hope and encouragement as we wait
for God's promises.


May God, who gave this patience and encouragement,
 help you live in complete harmony with each other--
each with the attitude of Christ Jesus toward the other.
Then all of you can join together with one voice, giving
 praise and glory to God, the father of our Lord, Jesus Christ.
So accept each other as Christ has accepted you, then
God will be glorified.


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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Philippians 4

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 can't help thinking of the people in Moore, OK and the fact that not many of them are rejoicing today. My heart goes out to them, especially the ones who lost their children.

I watched Dancing with the Stars last night, and was moved to tears by Kellie and Derek's dance which was so appropriate for expressing the mood of the disaster. Just beautiful!

I drove to Walmart yesterday and filled the van up with gas. which was still lower in price than most places, then went to the library. Stopped at Chick-fil-a for a salad and after that went to the park. The light tan gopher tortoise was on display by the parking lot, so a car pulled over while the people took photos of him. I saw two ibis, rooting around in the shrubs, and an egret silhouetted against the green trees.

The mowing crew has mowed all the weeds down and cleared a much wider path than they have been doing, so, the park looks much neater than when they were leaving a lot unmowed.. And the buildings look really good and spiffy since the light colored metal roofs have been installed.God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Philippians 4:4
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.
But 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. Keep your thoughts on what is
true and honorable and right. Think about things that are
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

Monday, May 20, 2013

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! More sunshine with the promise of maybe a thunderstorm coming.

The weather could not be better!

It was a quiet Saturday and a busy Sunday for me. After church, where I was sandwiched between two godly men, both came after I was already seated, I stayed and visited awhile, then went home to eat and back at church to celebrate a fortieth wedding anniversary with friends and family of the couple.

Congratulations, Ray and Marilou!

I came home in time to see the end of the Rays game, with the Rays winning again!  Yay! Then I drove to the park and after coming home again, gathered up all my library books and returned them in the drop off containers. It saves me having to tote all the heavy books back in by hand. Yes, I am a bit lazy! But God loves me anyway, and He 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

Friday, May 17, 2013

Faith brings Joy

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! More sunshine, cool breezes. Who could ask for more?

Yesterday, as I was going around Lynch Lake, I saw an osprey land on a very tall pole and after a minute, it spied lunch and made a swift dive into the water and came up with a fish clutched in its claws! Wow! All this while I was circling the lake! Birds have eagle eyes!

After I was through with my doctor's appointment and shopping at Sweetbay, I drove to the park and noticed the workmen were installing another metal roof on top of the environmental bldg. The old tin roof was very rusty and really looked bad. I really like the looks of the new roofs and I am sure they are good for a lifetime.

Well, last night I heard a loud explosion and an hour or so later another loud one. Sounded like either a large tire blowing or a huge firecracker under a tin can, but then I saw a Duke Energy truck driving down the street, so a transformer must have blown, but I did not lose my power. Cheryl called me because she saw me and Kim go out to look around. However, the power went off sometime during the night, because all the digitals were blinking this morning. Had to set the clocks, but no harm done.

And the breaking news here is that a bear is sitting up in a tree over in Tampa, so people are trying to get someone to tranquilize and get it down. Always something going on! God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Romans 5:5
We can rejoice, too when we run into problems and
trials, for we know that they are good for us--they help
us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of
character in us and character strengthens our confident
expectation of salvation. And this expectation will not
disappoint us. For we know how dearly God loves us,
because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts
with His love.


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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Thursday, May 16, 2013

Colossians 3

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Another in a string of beautiful days is here, although the air is growing warmer, and more humid. Can't complain with all this sunshine!

I think I know why all the butterflies have been flitting by the window. My beauty berry bush is all bloomed out and they love the flowers, so I really do have a butterfly garden, or, at least,  a bush!

I picked up my maple syrup from Lake Beauty, MN, yesterday, so I had to have waffles this morning to use some of it. Yum! It is light and delicate in taste. What a treat! I noticed that it is already turning to sugar around the lid, so guess I should refrigerate the open pint jar. I think the people at Lake Beauty Bible Camp made 128 pints after boiling down the sap. God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Colossians 3:23,24
Work hard and cheerfully at whatever you do,
 as though you were working for the Lord rather
than for people. Remember that the Lord will
give you an inheritance as your reward, and the
Master you are serving is Christ.


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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Psoaring thru Psalm 46

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! We have had such a string of beautiful weather it seems as if it could go on forever, but unfortunately, all good things must come to an end and we will soon be having high humidity and high temps soon! But, we enjoy this perfection while we can!

I mentioned butterflies yesterday, and I am just so enthralled watching them flit by. Seems like there are more than usual in my yard, and they are so beautiful! God has made things beautiful in His time.

Well, I noticed the driveway is covered in green leaves and twigs once again. A squirrel must be building his nest right above and is not too neat about it! Jason, the yard man, just cleaned up the mess from a few days ago, and now it is messed up again. Tsk!

I don't know if they are that messy in the park, but I drove through yesterday, and saw a baby chasing after its mother. Speaking of babies, I noticed a mama duck and about twelve babies at the end of my street. There is no water near, so they must have come a long way, just out and about. They are so cute, but turn into nuisances when they get older. But God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Psalm 46
God is our refuge and strength,
always ready to help in times of trouble.
So we will not fear, even if earthquakes come
and the mountains crumble into the sea.
Let the oceans roar and foam.
Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!

A river brings joy to the city of our God,
the sacred home of the Most High.
God himself lives in that city, it cannot be destroyed.
God will protect it at the break of day.
The nations are in an uproar,
and kingdoms crumble!
God thunders and the earth melts!

The Lord Almighty is here among us,
the God of Israel is our fortress.

Come see the glorious works of the Lord.
See how he brings destruction upon the world
and causes wars to end throughout the earth.
He breaks the bow and snaps the spear in two.
He burns the shields with fire.

Be silent, and know that I am God.
I will be honored by every nation,
I will be honored throughout the world"

The Lord Almighty is here among us
the  God of Israel is our fortress.


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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

1 John A new Commandment

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 quite a bit cooler this morning, which really feels good! I heard it was 39 in Tallahassee, so I am happy we are a good thirty plus degrees warmer here! But we have sunshine and that makes everything good.

I worked around the house yesterday, and then went out to run some errands, stopping in at the park, which was quiet and peaceful, with only a few people enjoying the natural beauties.

There is a butterfly garden in back of the building. and while I do not have a garden for them, still I see many different kinds in the afternoon, flitting back and forth along the hedge. I looked at the different varieties on the internet, but could not find the yellow and black striped one that I saw the other day. However, a swallowtail flew by yesterday, along with some smaller yellow ones, which I believe are called sulfurs.

My yard man was here this morning, and while we were talking, Victoria egret came strolling up almost to us, and slowly, but gracefully, meandered on across the yard, after stopping to stare at the oak tree for a few minutes. God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

1 John 2:9
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

Monday, May 13, 2013

Print it Con't.

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I left for church yesterday, I noticed water in the gutters, so we must have had rain during the night, and then when I was coming home, I saw tiny drops on the windshield. Now, today, it is overcast,  so maybe we are in for some rain.

I had a wonderful day yesterday. I had two early phone calls; one from my nephew in GA and one from Daryl in TN. Both wished me a Happy Mother's Day. That was so thoughtful! Then, I listened to some interesting testimonies and life stories in SS, and then a good sermon with lots of singing.

After Church, Brian came from his church and took me to the Columbia at the Pier! What a great place for food and view! Our table overlooked the water, the downtown 'burg, and we watched boats and people on the Spa beach, enjoying the beautiful weather. I am so sad that the Pier will soon be gone for good...what a loss! I should be having lunch there every day until the closing, but I know I won't. By the time we finished, lots of people were milling around and the valets were busy running for cars, and parking cars. We watched lots of pelicans and blackbirds fly and land in the water. (The pelicans, not the blackbirds!) We took some pics with our phones and a waitress accommodated us with a photo of the two of us. It was an unforgettable day! God is good!

From the devotional book Quiet Moments with God:

2. Another important factor is focus. A picture can be
razor sharp, or if Jones prefers, just the subject in the
foreground will be clearly in focus.

3. We sometimes become so focused on one aspect of a
problem, we lose sight of the big picture--of other circum-
stances influencing the situation or how the problem is
going to affect others if it isn't resolved properly. Look at
the big picture, then consider all individuals involved. Jones
allows his creative instincts to drive him to find more than
one "right" way to shoot a photo. He uses about 400 roles
of film per article--and each published article uses approx-
imately fifty photos.

4. Don't be afraid of experimenting with new ideas  and
methods. Ask God to show you great and mighty things that
you haven't known before. (See Jeremiah 33:3). When Dewitt
Jones empties his camera at the end of a shoot, he knows
he's given it his best shot. He's looked at the subject he's
photographing in as many different ways that he can think of.

If we've found the fight perspective, stayed focused on what's
truly important; been willing to try something different , and
refused to let fear of failure paralyze us; we, too, can look
 back at our day and say, "Print it!"

No life ever grows great until it is focused, dedicated, disciplined.
                                Harry Emerson Fosdick

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

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Friday, May 10, 2013

Print it!

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! Our humidity is on the rise, so our week or so of low humidity and pleasant temps. will soon be over. However, I can't complain about the sun and cool breezes!

I did not sleep well last night; in fact, I did not sleep! After tossing and turning until about 3 AM, I finally got up and went to the kitchen to get some warm milk and crackers. Then I sat and read until 4:15, when I went back to bed and slept for maybe an hour! Hopefully, I will do better tonight and maybe doze a little today.

Seems like colds are going around, still. My pest control man was sniffling, but he said it was allergies. However, it sounded more like a cold. I don't think he passed it on to me.

I received a pleasant surprise yesterday afternoon! When I opened the front door after a knock , I accepted a beautiful basket of  lavender and purple daisy like flowers from my sons and grandson. They are just beautiful! I am blessed! The older delivery man had an impressive handlebar mustache which was waxed!

I drove to the park and saw a limpkin walking slowly around just pecking once in a while at different delicious items . God is good!

Be very careful, then how you live-not as unwise, but as wise, 
making the most of every opportunity.
Ephesians 5:15-14

From the  devotional book, Quiet Moments with God:

When we come to the end of the day and wonder why
things went wrong, we usually don't have to look very
far to discover the answer. Somehow, we lost our sense of
direction and couldn't seem to get back on track. To
ensure this doesn't happen again, or at least, not as often,
we can take some advice from National Geographic
photographer Dewitt Jones:

1. If there's a problem at work that has you stymied,
    try looking at it from different points of view. Pray
    for the eyes of your understanding to be enlightened.
    Before he goes out to a shoot, Jones knows he has to
    have a good camera with the right lens. Different lenses
    give different perspectives. Jones experiments until he
     finds the right one.
(con't next week)

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers
with thanksgiving, joy and love! And Happy Mothers's Day
to all the women...those who are mothers and those who have mothers!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Thursday, May 9, 2013

Living to Please 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! Our weather continues to be almost perfect with lots of sunshine and cool breezes. It got a little warm yesterday afternoon, so the A/C cycled on, but mornings are great!

Cheryl, half of my cleaning team, came yesterday and we had a nice visit while she worked. She carried all her equipment over from her house across the street, instead of driving. I had to laugh at her, because she really had her hands full, including a mop and bucket!

After she left, I got ready to go to the library and gather up more books, then took a cruise through the park. I saw an anhinga stretching out its wings on the weir, and nearby, a great blue heron was stalking a fish in the canal. A cute squirrel was sitting up nibbling on an acorn, as I continued on down into the park.

While I was sitting at the pc yesterday morning, I watched a pretty little black and yellow striped butterfly flit by . I did not look it up online, but will try to remember to do that today. And, I also noticed that the tiny mangoes on the tree next door, must have fallen off, because they are no longer visible on the tree. :0( When I was at Sweetbay a couple days ago, I saw the osprey nest high on a light pole and the occupant had just flown in. God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Romans 15:2
We should please others. If we do what helps them,
we will build them up in the Lord. For even Christ
didn't please himself. As the Scriptures say, "Those who
insult you, are also insulting me." Such things were
written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us.
They give us hope and encouragement as we wait for
God's promises.

May God, who gives this patience and encouragement,
help you live in complete harmony with each other--each
with the attitude of Christ Jesus toward the other.Then all
of you can join together with one voice, giving praise and
glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.


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

Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Today's Prayer

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Our near perfect weather continues with blue skies, some puffy clouds and cool winds. Doesn't get much better than this!

I ran some errands in the early afternoon and did some grocery shopping with a list. If I don't take a  list, I usually find I pick up some items I do not need and forget some that I do. I did not watch the bagger, so discovered he made some of the bags too heavy. ( I usually take my own). Oh, well, I used my muscles and was able to get everything in the house.

After I finished shopping, I went to the park and enjoyed the peace and quiet of nature for a minute or two. There were quite a few people there for the middle of the day; just about all of them locals By the way, Is orange juice good for the complexion? When I opened the top of the oj container it splashed on my glasses and face. Guess I will find out!. God is good!

From the little devotional book Knowing God:

Ask, and God will give to you. Search, and you will find.
Knock, and the door will open for you. Yes, everyone who
asks will receive. Everyone who searches will find.
And everyone who knocks will have the door opened.

Matthew 7:7-8 NCV

                                      Today's Prayer

Dear God, You are nearer to me than the air that I breathe.
help me to feel Your presence in every situation and in
every circumstance. You are with me, Lord, in times of
celebration and in times of sorrow.You are with me when
I am strong and when I am weak. You never leave my side,
even when it seems to me that you are far away. Today and
every day, Dear God, let me feel You and acknowledge Your
presence so that others, too, might come to know You
through me. Amen.

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


Love and hugs,
 Amaryllis

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

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! It was so cool last night that I was chilly with just a light blanket on me for cover. Since the prediction is for more low sixties tonight, I will put another blanket on before bedtime! Then I will be able to sleep better!

Yesterday, after I ran a few errands, I drove to the park and found not so many people there as Sunday when it was packed. Of course, school was not out yet, so that accounted for fewer people.
The water was full and mostly clear, reflecting the moss laden trees in it and the sun shining on it. An anhinga had its wings spread on the weir, drying out and the squirrels were busy, as usual.

I am a little later this morning, because of a visit with a dear friend. Good friends cannot be replaced. 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

Monday, May 6, 2013

Wisdom from 2 Corinthians 12

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Another sunshiny day with wind and cool temps. After the rain we had last week, everything looks so green and healthy and growing! It doesn't take much rain to do a lot of good, but we had a lot of rain. I was looking at the side yard yesterday and I could see small washouts where the downspout of the the rain gutter had gushed out!

When I drove to the park, Saturday, I saw one of the workers on the other side of the canal near the weir, scooping out debris that had washed down from the houses on the other side of the canal. He had a line of foam cups, and other stuff to pick up later. I saw a couple of egrets and a small bird nipping at a large bird and making him fly off...(you go, little bird!) and a lot of squirrels who were doing their dare devil dashes across the street!

I was surprised to hear our youth pastor, who brought the message yesterday, announce that his family would be leaving for Bozeman, Montana to be church planters. He is from that area and still has family there, so it won't be as strange to them as coming to Florida was. However, he will be stepping into new ministries, so I wish them blessings and courage on their new journey. God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

2 Corinthians 12:9
Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away.
Each time he said ,"My gracious favor is all you need. My
power works best in your weakness." So now I am glad to
boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ
May work through me. Since I know that it is all for Christ's
good, I am quite content with my weaknesses and with
insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities.
For while I am weak, then I am strong.


2 Corinthians 13:5
Examine yourselves to see if your faith is really genuine.
Test yourselves. If you cannot tell that Jesus Christ is among
you, it means that you have failed the test. I hope that you
recognize that we have passed the test and we are approved
by God.


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


Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Friday, May 3, 2013

Ministry

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! I heard thunder and rain sometime around 2:30 this morning, but now the sun is shining and just a few puffy clouds are in the sky, However, more rain is expected later today. I say, Bring it on!!

In between showers yesterday, I made a trip to the library, and then did some errands, while just a very fine mist was falling. I included a trip to the park, and found the canal was up nicely, and washed clean of all the lilies and growth because of the fast moving current. Also, some roofers were putting new roofs on the house and work shop. I think it was green metal roofing, which replaces the aluminum roofing that was already on. I really like the looks of metal roofing, which I have seen on a few houses and buildings. But, at least, my roof is not leaking that I know of, so God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Matthew 9:37
He said to his disciples, "The harvest is so great but the workers are so few."


People are ready to hear and receive the Good News of God's love. But with this promise comes the responsibility to work and to pray. The Lord expects to enter fully into his work of reaching the world with the love of God.

Matthew 16:18-19
Now I say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock
I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not
conquer it. And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of
Heaven. Whatever you lock on earth will be locked in heaven
 and whatever you open on earth, will be opened in heaven.


As followers of Christ, we are part of the church, or the people of God. God has promised that we will overcome the kingdom of darkness  and secure his victory. We should take the offensive and overcome evil with good.

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


Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Thursday, May 2, 2013

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! We had an all day rain yesterday and today is overcast with more showers predicted, so it looks like May is coming in wet!

My cleaning ladies came yesterday just before the sprinkles started in earnest and we had a good chat about the happenings in the neighborhood and other places while they worked. By the time I got ready to go out after they left, it had really started pouring, so I stayed in all day, but hope to get some errands run today before the wetness starts.

So this is the National Day of Prayer, and I hope the President recognizes that and all our leaders do. This nation cannot run without prayer! But God is in control and He is Good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:

Ephesians 6:10-13

A final word. 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 realms.


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


Love and hugs,
Amaryllis

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Psalm 1

Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! The sky is overcast and we have promises of more thunderstorms today. But that's okay, we need the rain. Remember the old saying, "April showers bring May flowers". We did not get many April showers, but a good downpour just a couple days ago!

So Happy Mayday! I remember when I was attending Woodlawn Elem. School, back in the day, we celebrated May first with a real May pole, and danced around it winding ribbons all around . There was a talent competition to determine who the May queen would be. I sang the very old song, "Harbor Lights" as my contribution, and would have won, but I came down with chickenpox and had to drop out. Ah, memories. Back then, school was opened with a student reading scripture, prayer, and then the salute to our flag! No one objected, and it was an honor to be chosen to read the scripture! Oh, how times have changed!

Yesterday I went to the library, drove to Walmart for gas, and then stopped at the park to see a small gopher tortoise wandering around, and lots of squirrels, dashing across the street. There are so many happy birds around everywhere, I hear them at the park and in my neighborhood each time I go out! God is good!

From the Promise Bible NLT:


Psalm 1

Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the
advice of the wicked, or stand around with
sinners, or join in with scoffers. But they delight
in doing everything the Lord wants; day and night
they think about his law.
They are like trees planted along the riverbank
bearing fruit each season without fail.
Their leaves never wither , and in all they do they prosper.

But this is not true of the wicked,
They are like worthless chaff, scattered by
the wind. They will be condemned at the time of
judgment. Sinners will have no place among the godly.
For the Lord watches over the path of the godly,
but the path of the wicked leads to destruction.


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


Love and hugs,
Amaryllis