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 definitely feet a touch of fall in the air the past couple mornings. Even though it gets hot still in the afternoons, there is a lowering of temps and cooler breezes in the early mornings. We have lots of sun this morning and I am waiting for the yard men to come. The ground is still very wet from all the rain, so it will take a while for it to dry out.
Well, what a weekend! The Rays just about gave me a heart attack and definitely raised my blood pressure from watching them play yesterday, and finally winning so they could have one more game tonight! I won't mention the Bucs. Maybe they will get their act together soon.
Speaking of acts, I watched the multi-talented Curt Cloninger at church last night with his Witnesses performance. He is amazing! We got to meet him up close and personal at our table before his show. Almost had me in tears with the part of watching Jesus being nailed to the cross.
I went to the Park a couple times and while the water is still high, some cleaning has been done in the canal in front of the weir and it looks better. I saw an anhinga stretching out on the weir, and an egret across the street. Just as I drove in, a hawk took off right in front of the car, and flew all the way down the street, before disappearing into the trees. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
1 Thessalonians 5:16-23
Always be joyful. Keep on praying .
No matter what happens, always be thankful,
for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.
Do not stifle the Holy Spirit.
Do not scoff at prophecies, but test
everything that is said. Hold on to what
is good. Keep away from every kind of evil.
Now may the God of peace make you holy
in every way, and may your whole spirit and
soul and body be kept blameless until that
day when our Lord Jesus comes again.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, September 30, 2013
Friday, September 27, 2013
Paul'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! I saw sunshine earlier, now it is overcast, but cooler! Maybe just as preview of fall? The temp is supposed to climb to 90 today, but right now it is only 75. so that feels really good!
After doing some chores that I had been putting off, including my ironing, I felt like rewarding myself with a trip to Krispy Kreme. I went to the drive-thru, which had a line clear out into the street, and had to wait about ten minutes for my turn. Meantime, some guys were setting up a tent and speakers in the driveway, and started playing music, which was pleasant. I finally ordered one glazed and one pumpkin cheesecake do nuts. When I got home I made a cup of tea and had the glazed for afternoon tea!
After that, I drove to the Park and saw that the water had receded just a bit, but is still very high. An egret was patiently waiting, some bird watchers were standing in the street, looking up through binocs, and very few people were there.
Well, I watched the Rays sweep the Yankees last night and saw the moving tribute for Mariano Rivera, in front of over 48 thousand people. It was a good game and a good ending. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ephesians 3:14-
When I think of the wisdom and scope of God's plan, I fall
to my knees, and pray to the Father, the Creator of everything
in heaven and on earth. I pray that from his glorious, unlimited
resources, he will give you mighty inner strength through his
Holy Spirit. And I pray that Christ will be more and more at
home in your hearts as you trust in him. May your roots go down
deep into the soil of God's marvelous love.
And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people
should , how wide , how long, how high, and how deep his love
really is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is so
great you will never fully understand it. Then you will be filled with
the fullness of life and power that comes from God
Now glory be to God! By his mighty power at work within us He is
able to accomplish infinitely more than we would dare to ask or hope.
May he be given glory in the church and in Christ Jesus forever
and ever through endless ages.
Amen
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
After doing some chores that I had been putting off, including my ironing, I felt like rewarding myself with a trip to Krispy Kreme. I went to the drive-thru, which had a line clear out into the street, and had to wait about ten minutes for my turn. Meantime, some guys were setting up a tent and speakers in the driveway, and started playing music, which was pleasant. I finally ordered one glazed and one pumpkin cheesecake do nuts. When I got home I made a cup of tea and had the glazed for afternoon tea!
After that, I drove to the Park and saw that the water had receded just a bit, but is still very high. An egret was patiently waiting, some bird watchers were standing in the street, looking up through binocs, and very few people were there.
Well, I watched the Rays sweep the Yankees last night and saw the moving tribute for Mariano Rivera, in front of over 48 thousand people. It was a good game and a good ending. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ephesians 3:14-
When I think of the wisdom and scope of God's plan, I fall
to my knees, and pray to the Father, the Creator of everything
in heaven and on earth. I pray that from his glorious, unlimited
resources, he will give you mighty inner strength through his
Holy Spirit. And I pray that Christ will be more and more at
home in your hearts as you trust in him. May your roots go down
deep into the soil of God's marvelous love.
And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people
should , how wide , how long, how high, and how deep his love
really is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is so
great you will never fully understand it. Then you will be filled with
the fullness of life and power that comes from God
Now glory be to God! By his mighty power at work within us He is
able to accomplish infinitely more than we would dare to ask or hope.
May he be given glory in the church and in Christ Jesus forever
and ever through endless ages.
Amen
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Psoaring thru Psalm 25
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Sunshine is back!! We have a nice breeze blowing and puffy clouds and sun . While everything is still very wet, still it is good to have the sun back.
My cleaning ladies came in the rain and so I visited with them while they worked and they said the rain was so heavy on the road, that they could hardly see to drive when they started out in the morning.
I drove to Boston Market for my supper and on to the Park, where the water had been up and over the weir, and the canal was very high. There were quite a few people there and some were walking their dogs and others just enjoying the peace. I don't know what the birds do when it rains, because I never see them, but their wings must be mostly waterproof. But God takes care of his creatures, big and small . God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 25:8-10
The Lord is good and does what is right;
he shows the proper path to those who go astray.
He leads the humble in what is right,
teaching them his way.
The Lord leads with unfailing love and faithfulness
all those who keep his covenant and obey his decrees....
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
My cleaning ladies came in the rain and so I visited with them while they worked and they said the rain was so heavy on the road, that they could hardly see to drive when they started out in the morning.
I drove to Boston Market for my supper and on to the Park, where the water had been up and over the weir, and the canal was very high. There were quite a few people there and some were walking their dogs and others just enjoying the peace. I don't know what the birds do when it rains, because I never see them, but their wings must be mostly waterproof. But God takes care of his creatures, big and small . God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 25:8-10
The Lord is good and does what is right;
he shows the proper path to those who go astray.
He leads the humble in what is right,
teaching them his way.
The Lord leads with unfailing love and faithfulness
all those who keep his covenant and obey his decrees....
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Psoaring thru Psalm 23
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! Okay, the Lord decided to give us more rain, so it has been coming down steadily all night and all morning.
Yesterday, the meteorologist from 13 posted instructions on how to build an ark, in case we had forgotten his previous posting! Ha!
Well, I had an unexpected day brightener when a good friend paid me a visit and we chatted for an hour. When he was leaving, I spied two bunnies in the front yard, and then, another one, so when I mentioned last week that we must have a bunny family living around here, we do! David took pics of them and I was going to, but he said he would email me his. They are cute!
Then I drove to CVS after he left, and on the way, came upon the bad accident at 77th and 16th. Two cars were in the canal, one totally upside down and the other almost in the creek. Turns out no one was hurt, thank God, but there were cars lined up on both sides of the canal with neighbors and parents taking pics and just looking. When I came back about thirty minutes later, the crowds were still there, but the ambulance was gone and the cars were still in the water. The story was featured on TV and the front page of the Times this morning. Scary!
My ladies are coming to clean today, and I look forward to that God still provides for all my needs and God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd
I have everything I need.
He lets me rest in green pastures,
he leads me beside peaceful streams.
He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
bringing honor to his name.
Even when I walk,
through the dark valley of death,
I will not be afraid
for you are close beside me
Your rod and your staff
protect and comfort me.
You prepare a feast for me in
the presence of my enemies.
You welcome me as a guest
anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.
Surely your goodness and unfailing
love, will pursue me
all the days of my life
and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday, the meteorologist from 13 posted instructions on how to build an ark, in case we had forgotten his previous posting! Ha!
Well, I had an unexpected day brightener when a good friend paid me a visit and we chatted for an hour. When he was leaving, I spied two bunnies in the front yard, and then, another one, so when I mentioned last week that we must have a bunny family living around here, we do! David took pics of them and I was going to, but he said he would email me his. They are cute!
Then I drove to CVS after he left, and on the way, came upon the bad accident at 77th and 16th. Two cars were in the canal, one totally upside down and the other almost in the creek. Turns out no one was hurt, thank God, but there were cars lined up on both sides of the canal with neighbors and parents taking pics and just looking. When I came back about thirty minutes later, the crowds were still there, but the ambulance was gone and the cars were still in the water. The story was featured on TV and the front page of the Times this morning. Scary!
My ladies are coming to clean today, and I look forward to that God still provides for all my needs and God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd
I have everything I need.
He lets me rest in green pastures,
he leads me beside peaceful streams.
He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
bringing honor to his name.
Even when I walk,
through the dark valley of death,
I will not be afraid
for you are close beside me
Your rod and your staff
protect and comfort me.
You prepare a feast for me in
the presence of my enemies.
You welcome me as a guest
anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.
Surely your goodness and unfailing
love, will pursue me
all the days of my life
and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
God can handle 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! Rain, rain, rain. That's about it for the weather report. From the looks of Radar on Fox 13, this will last pretty much all day and maybe all day tomorrow.
This makes it hard for the yard men and people who work outdoors, to make a living. I am thankful my grass got cut yesterday, even though it was sprinkling lightly. I did not go out at all yesterday, but will have to today. Maybe I can perk myself up with a sugar overload if I stop at Krispy Kreme which opened Friday!
No butterflies are flitting by today, and the birds are not as numerous, but I have tiny frogs hopping around the yard, I don't know where they hide when there is no rain, but God is good!
From the little devotional book; Knowing God:
So, you see, it is impossible to please God without faith.
Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that there is a God
and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.
Hebrews 11:6 NCP
Every life, including yours-is a series of wins and losses. Every
step of the way, through every triumph and tragedy, God walks
with you, ready and willing to strengthen you. So the next time
you find your courage tested to the limit, remember to take
your fears to God. If you call upon him, you will be comforted.
Whatever your challenge, whatever your trouble, God can
handle it.
When you place your faith, your trust, indeed your life, in the hands
of your Heavenly Father, You'll be amazed at the marvelous things
He can do with you, and through you. So strengthen your faith
through praise, through worship, through Bible Study, and through
prayer. And trust God's plans. With him, all things are possible, and
He stands ready to open a world of possibilities to you...if you have faith.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
This makes it hard for the yard men and people who work outdoors, to make a living. I am thankful my grass got cut yesterday, even though it was sprinkling lightly. I did not go out at all yesterday, but will have to today. Maybe I can perk myself up with a sugar overload if I stop at Krispy Kreme which opened Friday!
No butterflies are flitting by today, and the birds are not as numerous, but I have tiny frogs hopping around the yard, I don't know where they hide when there is no rain, but God is good!
From the little devotional book; Knowing God:
So, you see, it is impossible to please God without faith.
Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that there is a God
and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.
Hebrews 11:6 NCP
Every life, including yours-is a series of wins and losses. Every
step of the way, through every triumph and tragedy, God walks
with you, ready and willing to strengthen you. So the next time
you find your courage tested to the limit, remember to take
your fears to God. If you call upon him, you will be comforted.
Whatever your challenge, whatever your trouble, God can
handle it.
When you place your faith, your trust, indeed your life, in the hands
of your Heavenly Father, You'll be amazed at the marvelous things
He can do with you, and through you. So strengthen your faith
through praise, through worship, through Bible Study, and through
prayer. And trust God's plans. With him, all things are possible, and
He stands ready to open a world of possibilities to you...if you have faith.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, September 23, 2013
Habits
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Well, the Lord has made a rainy day today. Already we have had a shower, and last night it must have rained quietly. So, the wind has picked up and the sky is overcast, but it is still a great day!
Still, the rain does not matter to my new yard man. If he says he will be here on Monday, then he is, no matter the rain!
There must be a family of rabbits living in the neighborhood. Saturday evening, I saw one in my side yard, well camouflaged, but I spoke to him and he just looked and still sat in front of the neighbor's fence, trying to get into their yard. They don't seem to do me any harm, so maybe they eat on the other neighbor's fruits.
I saw something; either a bird or squirrel attacking a mango hanging in the tree next door, and , sure enough, the next day, all that was left was the seed! So. whatever it was, liked the fruit!
Brian and I had lunch at the Hangar yesterday after church. We had planned to go to the Columbia for their 1905 prices day, but got to thinking we would have not only a long wait, but it was a long drive to Sand Key, so we changed our minds, and got home in time to watch the Rays win again!
I later saw a menu posted on Facebook, and the highest priced item on the menu was 2.95! Ah, those were the days, until you consider the wages were not much higher! But God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How can God help me cultivate good habits?
1 Timothy 4:7-8
Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives tales.
Spend your time and energy in training yourself for spiritual fitness.
Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is much more
important , for it promises a reward in both this life and the next.
1 Corinthians 9:25
All athletes practice strict self control. They do it to win a prize that
will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize.
Godly habits ----such as reading the Bible, praying, and giving our
time and money in service---give us spiritual standing , purpose and
direction for our lives. They also help us keep our eyes on the eternal prize.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving. joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Still, the rain does not matter to my new yard man. If he says he will be here on Monday, then he is, no matter the rain!
There must be a family of rabbits living in the neighborhood. Saturday evening, I saw one in my side yard, well camouflaged, but I spoke to him and he just looked and still sat in front of the neighbor's fence, trying to get into their yard. They don't seem to do me any harm, so maybe they eat on the other neighbor's fruits.
I saw something; either a bird or squirrel attacking a mango hanging in the tree next door, and , sure enough, the next day, all that was left was the seed! So. whatever it was, liked the fruit!
Brian and I had lunch at the Hangar yesterday after church. We had planned to go to the Columbia for their 1905 prices day, but got to thinking we would have not only a long wait, but it was a long drive to Sand Key, so we changed our minds, and got home in time to watch the Rays win again!
I later saw a menu posted on Facebook, and the highest priced item on the menu was 2.95! Ah, those were the days, until you consider the wages were not much higher! But God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How can God help me cultivate good habits?
1 Timothy 4:7-8
Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives tales.
Spend your time and energy in training yourself for spiritual fitness.
Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is much more
important , for it promises a reward in both this life and the next.
1 Corinthians 9:25
All athletes practice strict self control. They do it to win a prize that
will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize.
Godly habits ----such as reading the Bible, praying, and giving our
time and money in service---give us spiritual standing , purpose and
direction for our lives. They also help us keep our eyes on the eternal prize.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving. joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, September 20, 2013
Confidence
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! Rain is still dripping off the roof after last night's downpour, which lasted until after I went to sleep.
But the sun is shining, and so the roof will dry soon. I am thankful for a good roof and all the provisions that God has given me!
I made another trip to the library yesterday during the rush and traffic of school letting out!
Big mistake! However, after waiting in the longest line I have ever seen in my neighborhood, I was finally able to make my way on to my destination. After I left the library, I decided to treat myself to a half-price milkshake at Steak and Shake. I had not indulged for a long time
Then I drove on to the Park, and saw a great blue heron framed against the tall bushes in the lake, and drove on to the circle, where a smaller gopher tortoise was sitting near the tall shrubs.
Made me wonder just how roomy their tunnels are, to have babies in there. As I was driving out, I saw a raccoon heading for the weir. It was so unusual in the middle of the afternoon, I stopped to look at him, and so he stopped and looked at me and rose up in a sitting position, as if begging and then quickly scampered off in the direction he came from! Another one of God's critters! God is good!
BTW, yesterday I took the day off, because of a very restless night because of the full moon and the very late Rays game.)
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How can we have confidence in the face of life's greatest hardships?
Proverbs 3:5,6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do and he will direct your paths.
When we rely on God, he will not let us down. Our limited understanding
is no match for his limitless love and grace.
Romans 8:38-39
I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from his love.
Death can't and life can't. The angels can't and the demons can't.
Our fears for today, our worries about tomorrow, and even the
powers of hell can't keep God's love away. Whether we are high
above the sky or in the deepest ocean, nothing in all creation will
ever separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Our happiness rises and falls , but our steady confidence comes
from the constancy of Christ. We depend on Christ-not our circumstances.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving, joy and love.
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
But the sun is shining, and so the roof will dry soon. I am thankful for a good roof and all the provisions that God has given me!
I made another trip to the library yesterday during the rush and traffic of school letting out!
Big mistake! However, after waiting in the longest line I have ever seen in my neighborhood, I was finally able to make my way on to my destination. After I left the library, I decided to treat myself to a half-price milkshake at Steak and Shake. I had not indulged for a long time
Then I drove on to the Park, and saw a great blue heron framed against the tall bushes in the lake, and drove on to the circle, where a smaller gopher tortoise was sitting near the tall shrubs.
Made me wonder just how roomy their tunnels are, to have babies in there. As I was driving out, I saw a raccoon heading for the weir. It was so unusual in the middle of the afternoon, I stopped to look at him, and so he stopped and looked at me and rose up in a sitting position, as if begging and then quickly scampered off in the direction he came from! Another one of God's critters! God is good!
BTW, yesterday I took the day off, because of a very restless night because of the full moon and the very late Rays game.)
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How can we have confidence in the face of life's greatest hardships?
Proverbs 3:5,6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do and he will direct your paths.
When we rely on God, he will not let us down. Our limited understanding
is no match for his limitless love and grace.
Romans 8:38-39
I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from his love.
Death can't and life can't. The angels can't and the demons can't.
Our fears for today, our worries about tomorrow, and even the
powers of hell can't keep God's love away. Whether we are high
above the sky or in the deepest ocean, nothing in all creation will
ever separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Our happiness rises and falls , but our steady confidence comes
from the constancy of Christ. We depend on Christ-not our circumstances.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving, joy and love.
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Living by the Spirit's 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! We have had a series of days with lots of sun and the beautiful, white and towering clouds, which build up in the afternoon. I will have to go to Weedon Island park or the Gandy beach one of these days, just to see the clouds without any wires in the way.
After a shopping trip to Northeast Shopping Center, I drove on to the park to see an ibis all by himself pecking along the freshly mowed grass, people strolling along and lots of cars for a weekday afternoon. Later on, I looked outside after I got home and discovered it had been raining...just a gentle rain that I couldn't even hear. It promises to be another day like yesterday, but God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ephesians 6:15-22
So be careful how you live, not as fools but
as those who are wise. Make the most of
every opportunity for doing good in these evil
days. Don't act thoughtlessly, but try to understand
what the Lord wants you to do. Don't be drunk
with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead,
let the Holy Spirit fill and control you. Then you
will sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs
among yourselves, making music to the Lord in your
hearts. And you will always give thanks for everything
to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
After a shopping trip to Northeast Shopping Center, I drove on to the park to see an ibis all by himself pecking along the freshly mowed grass, people strolling along and lots of cars for a weekday afternoon. Later on, I looked outside after I got home and discovered it had been raining...just a gentle rain that I couldn't even hear. It promises to be another day like yesterday, but God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ephesians 6:15-22
So be careful how you live, not as fools but
as those who are wise. Make the most of
every opportunity for doing good in these evil
days. Don't act thoughtlessly, but try to understand
what the Lord wants you to do. Don't be drunk
with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead,
let the Holy Spirit fill and control you. Then you
will sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs
among yourselves, making music to the Lord in your
hearts. And you will always give thanks for everything
to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Psoaring thru Psalm 145
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! I am running late this morning, first, because I took my time with my shower and breakfast, and second, because my pest control man came, so I had to wait for him.
But, it is a beautiful morning and surprisingly, a little cooler! I expect leaves to start falling off the trees any day now, even though we are still expecting nineties later on.
I got out to do a little grocery shopping yesterday and found guava preserves at Sweetbay, but they still do not have canned guava shells. Just as well, I suppose, since they are packed in heavy syrup, but they are so good! With cream cheese and saltine crackers! Yum! One of my all time favorite desserts!
After shopping, I drove to the park and discovered the mowers were busy, one with a large trash can attached to his large mower. One of the workers has cleaned out the canal, so it looks much better. Since the mowers were out, I did not see the gophers, but the ibis were busy in the circle, pecking and moving, as usual. They sometimes land in a large flock right in my front yard and then move slowly down the block, pecking as they go. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 145:13-21
The Lord is faithful in all he says,
he is gracious in all he does.
The Lord helps the fallen
and lifts up those bent beneath their loads.
All eyes look to you for help,
and you give them their food as they need it.
When you open your hand,
you satisfy the hunger and thirst of
every living thing.
The Lord is righteous is everything he
does, he is filled with kindness.
The Lord is close to all who call on him,
yes, to all who call on him sincerely.
He fulfills the desires of those who fear him;
he hears their cries for help and rescues them.
The Lord protects all those who love him,
and he destroys the wicked.
I will praise the Lord
and everyone on earth will bless his holy name
forever and forever.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers
with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
But, it is a beautiful morning and surprisingly, a little cooler! I expect leaves to start falling off the trees any day now, even though we are still expecting nineties later on.
I got out to do a little grocery shopping yesterday and found guava preserves at Sweetbay, but they still do not have canned guava shells. Just as well, I suppose, since they are packed in heavy syrup, but they are so good! With cream cheese and saltine crackers! Yum! One of my all time favorite desserts!
After shopping, I drove to the park and discovered the mowers were busy, one with a large trash can attached to his large mower. One of the workers has cleaned out the canal, so it looks much better. Since the mowers were out, I did not see the gophers, but the ibis were busy in the circle, pecking and moving, as usual. They sometimes land in a large flock right in my front yard and then move slowly down the block, pecking as they go. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 145:13-21
The Lord is faithful in all he says,
he is gracious in all he does.
The Lord helps the fallen
and lifts up those bent beneath their loads.
All eyes look to you for help,
and you give them their food as they need it.
When you open your hand,
you satisfy the hunger and thirst of
every living thing.
The Lord is righteous is everything he
does, he is filled with kindness.
The Lord is close to all who call on him,
yes, to all who call on him sincerely.
He fulfills the desires of those who fear him;
he hears their cries for help and rescues them.
The Lord protects all those who love him,
and he destroys the wicked.
I will praise the Lord
and everyone on earth will bless his holy name
forever and forever.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers
with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, September 16, 2013
Why should I be Faithful?
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! Drops are still falling off the roof once in a while, from the windy storm we had yesterday late afternoon.
I had planned to attend the meeting at church at 6 PM, but lightning, wind and heavy rain gave me a sign that I should stay home. The football game in Tampa was delayed by lightning, and a plant on my front porch blew over, plus I did not get the trash dumpster pulled down to the curb because of the storm. I should have taken it down early afternoon. Oh, well, it will get picked up Thursday!
But, we have sunshine this morning, and yesterday was a good day for church in the morning.Brian took me to lunch at the newly remodeled Bob Evans on US 19. It has really been renovated! I could not resist buying a couple cinnamon blossoms to take home, from their bakery.
I took a ride through the park after church and saw an egret almost hidden in the bulrushes, posing on the alert for a fish in the canal. It was such a typical Florida scene. It reminded me of a painting! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Proverbs 3:3-4
Never let loyalty and kindness get away from you! Wear them like a necklace, write them deep within your heart. Then you will find favor with both God and people and you will gain a good reputation. One of our greatest securities in life is that of a good name. Faithfulness brings a good reputation and trust from others. When we have problems, sometimes our reputation can be the key to a positive outcome.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I had planned to attend the meeting at church at 6 PM, but lightning, wind and heavy rain gave me a sign that I should stay home. The football game in Tampa was delayed by lightning, and a plant on my front porch blew over, plus I did not get the trash dumpster pulled down to the curb because of the storm. I should have taken it down early afternoon. Oh, well, it will get picked up Thursday!
But, we have sunshine this morning, and yesterday was a good day for church in the morning.Brian took me to lunch at the newly remodeled Bob Evans on US 19. It has really been renovated! I could not resist buying a couple cinnamon blossoms to take home, from their bakery.
I took a ride through the park after church and saw an egret almost hidden in the bulrushes, posing on the alert for a fish in the canal. It was such a typical Florida scene. It reminded me of a painting! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Proverbs 3:3-4
Never let loyalty and kindness get away from you! Wear them like a necklace, write them deep within your heart. Then you will find favor with both God and people and you will gain a good reputation. One of our greatest securities in life is that of a good name. Faithfulness brings a good reputation and trust from others. When we have problems, sometimes our reputation can be the key to a positive outcome.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, September 13, 2013
Psoaring thru Psalm100
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 lots of sunshine and puffy clouds today, but yesterday afternoon we had another thunderstorm. That was unusual, because we had been dry for a few days.
I had intended to call my handyman to re-coat the flat roof while it was dry, but guess I will have to wait again until we have another dry spell.
I had a visit from my yard man, and he is leaving the lawn business for "greener pastures" in the business world. Can't say I blame him for leaving the heat, sweat and backbreaking outside work, especially if it means more income. But he has arranged for a friend to take over for him with all his customers, so I appreciate that and will see how he works out. God always provides!
I watched a small yellow and black butterfly flit by in a straight line, headed for the back yard, and was impressed by the steadiness of his flight. Most of these beauties, just flit up and down and seem to dance in the air, instead of going in a straight line. But God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 100
Shout with joy to the Lord, O earth!
Worship the Lord with gladness,
Come before him, singing with joy.
Acknowledge that the Lord is God!
He made us and we are his.
We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving and ;
go into his courts with praise.
Give thanks to him and bless his name.
For the Lord is good.
His unfailing love continues forever,
And his faithfulness continues to each generation.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I had intended to call my handyman to re-coat the flat roof while it was dry, but guess I will have to wait again until we have another dry spell.
I had a visit from my yard man, and he is leaving the lawn business for "greener pastures" in the business world. Can't say I blame him for leaving the heat, sweat and backbreaking outside work, especially if it means more income. But he has arranged for a friend to take over for him with all his customers, so I appreciate that and will see how he works out. God always provides!
I watched a small yellow and black butterfly flit by in a straight line, headed for the back yard, and was impressed by the steadiness of his flight. Most of these beauties, just flit up and down and seem to dance in the air, instead of going in a straight line. But God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Psalm 100
Shout with joy to the Lord, O earth!
Worship the Lord with gladness,
Come before him, singing with joy.
Acknowledge that the Lord is God!
He made us and we are his.
We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving and ;
go into his courts with praise.
Give thanks to him and bless his name.
For the Lord is good.
His unfailing love continues forever,
And his faithfulness continues to each generation.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, September 12, 2013
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! Still no rain and hot, but I have more azalea blooms, even though the bushes have been trimmed and this is close to fall. What is going on? These are spring flowers! But they are pretty and I am not complaining.
Well, I found out my smoke detector works, This morning I was frying bacon, and something was on the burner that gave off a lot of smoke, so the detector started screeching. Loud! I cannot imagine what was on the burner, because it was just cleaned yesterday and I did not use it, anyway. But the bacon was good and so were the Egg Beaters!
My ladies were here yesterday, and Kim felt sorry for my houseplants, which are slowly dying, so she took it upon herself to spend time cleaning them out and adding soil and tossing the dead ones. She is an organized person, and I know she dislikes seeing disorder, but it doesn't bother me, now. (smile) I would rather read.
I went by the new Krispy Kreme shop to see how far along it is, and looks like it will be opening next week! Yum! Because I like them so much, I only eat one once in a while. I must say, Publix donuts are good and they are baked, not fried. Does this make them healthier? Maybe a bit, but they are still full of sugar and fat. Sigh.
There was a large class of adults at the park yesterday and they were all gathered around the gopher tortoise, taking pictures and just learning all about his habits. He was the star attraction! The canal was quiet and peaceful and the shade was welcome. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Where does Joy come from?
Zephaniah 3:17
The Lord your God has arrived to live among you. He is a mighty
savior. He will rejoice over you with great gladness. With his love,
he will calm all your fears. He will exult over you by singing a
happy song.
Our joy springs from God's love, which is not dependent on our circumstances
nor performance. When we trust in his love for us, we are far less vulnerable to the depression and despair that could come from our problems and disappointments.
Revelation 21:4
He will remove all of their sorrows and there will be no more death
or sorrow, or crying or pain . For the old world and its evils are gone forever.
Our joy is rooted in the certainty of heaven, where we will be fully
and finally liberated from the trials and troubles of this life.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Well, I found out my smoke detector works, This morning I was frying bacon, and something was on the burner that gave off a lot of smoke, so the detector started screeching. Loud! I cannot imagine what was on the burner, because it was just cleaned yesterday and I did not use it, anyway. But the bacon was good and so were the Egg Beaters!
My ladies were here yesterday, and Kim felt sorry for my houseplants, which are slowly dying, so she took it upon herself to spend time cleaning them out and adding soil and tossing the dead ones. She is an organized person, and I know she dislikes seeing disorder, but it doesn't bother me, now. (smile) I would rather read.
I went by the new Krispy Kreme shop to see how far along it is, and looks like it will be opening next week! Yum! Because I like them so much, I only eat one once in a while. I must say, Publix donuts are good and they are baked, not fried. Does this make them healthier? Maybe a bit, but they are still full of sugar and fat. Sigh.
There was a large class of adults at the park yesterday and they were all gathered around the gopher tortoise, taking pictures and just learning all about his habits. He was the star attraction! The canal was quiet and peaceful and the shade was welcome. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Where does Joy come from?
Zephaniah 3:17
The Lord your God has arrived to live among you. He is a mighty
savior. He will rejoice over you with great gladness. With his love,
he will calm all your fears. He will exult over you by singing a
happy song.
Our joy springs from God's love, which is not dependent on our circumstances
nor performance. When we trust in his love for us, we are far less vulnerable to the depression and despair that could come from our problems and disappointments.
Revelation 21:4
He will remove all of their sorrows and there will be no more death
or sorrow, or crying or pain . For the old world and its evils are gone forever.
Our joy is rooted in the certainty of heaven, where we will be fully
and finally liberated from the trials and troubles of this life.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Courage
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 more sunshine and cool but humid breezes with a suggestion of rain later on. However, that doesn't mean it will fall here.The temps are already in the eighties!
I am still fascinated by the butterflies flitting by the window, headed out into the back yard. Some are very large yellow winged with black stripes and some smaller with all yellow, but all very pretty!
My cleaning ladies are coming today around noon, after taking last week off for vacation. And my friend Mari, and her husband are taking off today for a vacation in Co. Sigh. Wish I were going some place far away for a short while!
Since today is a remembrance day , when all the names of the ones lost in the attack on the Twin Towers, are being read , I thought I would commemorate their courage with the following passage from the Promise Bible. But, as always, God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Are there models of courage that can inspire me?
Hebrews 12:1-3
Since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses
to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down,
especially the sin that so easily hinders our progress. And let us
run with endurance the race that God has set before us. We do this
by keeping our eyes on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from
start to finish. He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross
because of the joy he knew would be his afterward. Now he is
seated in the place of highest honor beside God's throne in heaven.
Think about all he endured when sinful people did such terrible
things to him, so that we don't become weary and give up.
Courage comes from following Christ. While God's presence is our
greatest encouragement, we also have the courageous examples of those
who have gone before us . Above all, we can gain great strength when we
meditate on Jesus' courage. He showed that looking to our eternal reward
gets us through the worst temporal trials.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I am still fascinated by the butterflies flitting by the window, headed out into the back yard. Some are very large yellow winged with black stripes and some smaller with all yellow, but all very pretty!
My cleaning ladies are coming today around noon, after taking last week off for vacation. And my friend Mari, and her husband are taking off today for a vacation in Co. Sigh. Wish I were going some place far away for a short while!
Since today is a remembrance day , when all the names of the ones lost in the attack on the Twin Towers, are being read , I thought I would commemorate their courage with the following passage from the Promise Bible. But, as always, God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Are there models of courage that can inspire me?
Hebrews 12:1-3
Since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses
to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down,
especially the sin that so easily hinders our progress. And let us
run with endurance the race that God has set before us. We do this
by keeping our eyes on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from
start to finish. He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross
because of the joy he knew would be his afterward. Now he is
seated in the place of highest honor beside God's throne in heaven.
Think about all he endured when sinful people did such terrible
things to him, so that we don't become weary and give up.
Courage comes from following Christ. While God's presence is our
greatest encouragement, we also have the courageous examples of those
who have gone before us . Above all, we can gain great strength when we
meditate on Jesus' courage. He showed that looking to our eternal reward
gets us through the worst temporal trials.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Discernment
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Looks like we will have a string of no rain days for a while, which will allow the street gutters to dry up. I see ducks sitting or drinking that dirty water as they check out the neighborhood and rest on lawns in the shade during the afternoon. I still don't know why they hang around this street, since we don't have a lake. The nearest one is Lynch Lake and that is about three blocks away. Oh, well, ducks are not the smartest critters around!
I went to church yesterday to rescue my Bible which I left there Sunday. I realized I had left it as soon as I got home, and let Marilou know I would be back to get it. I saw a gift on it when I picked it up, which Lou helped me with the opening of the bag and it was a purse sized package of tissues inside a Rays wrapper! How clever! Made by our friend, Peach. That was an unexpected bright spot in the day!
When I left, I made another stop, and then went on to the Park. Very few people were there, and I did not see the gopher , but squirrels were having a good time, and the ibis were busy pecking, as usual. The water in the canal is still pretty much covered with floating hydrilla which has been sprayed once. But God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
When I am confused, where do I turn for clarity, wisdom, understanding
and direction?
James 1:5-8
If you need wisdom--if you want to know what God wants you to do--ask him
and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking, but when you ask him,
be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled
as a wave of the sea, that is driven and tossed by the wind. People like that should
not expect to receive anything from the Lord. They can't make up their minds.
They waver back and forth in everything they do.
Psalm 119:125
Give discernment to your servant, then I will understand your decrees.
Discernment is the ability to interpret events and to understand the true nature of
people and situations. Discernment is an aspect of wisdom. It enables us to see
behind the facades that mask the truth. Discernment shows us the way through
the maze of options that face us. Like the sun that burns away the fog, discernment
cuts through confusion and distractions. Whereas, the devil is the "father of lies",
God is the father of the truth, and he gives discernment to those who seek it.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I went to church yesterday to rescue my Bible which I left there Sunday. I realized I had left it as soon as I got home, and let Marilou know I would be back to get it. I saw a gift on it when I picked it up, which Lou helped me with the opening of the bag and it was a purse sized package of tissues inside a Rays wrapper! How clever! Made by our friend, Peach. That was an unexpected bright spot in the day!
When I left, I made another stop, and then went on to the Park. Very few people were there, and I did not see the gopher , but squirrels were having a good time, and the ibis were busy pecking, as usual. The water in the canal is still pretty much covered with floating hydrilla which has been sprayed once. But God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
When I am confused, where do I turn for clarity, wisdom, understanding
and direction?
James 1:5-8
If you need wisdom--if you want to know what God wants you to do--ask him
and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking, but when you ask him,
be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled
as a wave of the sea, that is driven and tossed by the wind. People like that should
not expect to receive anything from the Lord. They can't make up their minds.
They waver back and forth in everything they do.
Psalm 119:125
Give discernment to your servant, then I will understand your decrees.
Discernment is the ability to interpret events and to understand the true nature of
people and situations. Discernment is an aspect of wisdom. It enables us to see
behind the facades that mask the truth. Discernment shows us the way through
the maze of options that face us. Like the sun that burns away the fog, discernment
cuts through confusion and distractions. Whereas, the devil is the "father of lies",
God is the father of the truth, and he gives discernment to those who seek it.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving,
joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, September 9, 2013
Change
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 not had any rain for a couple days, now, but plenty of sunshine and heat still. Maybe fall is on the way, but I am ready for a little cooling!
I have to admit that we have beautiful big, cloud formations these days. I just really enjoy looking at them, when I am outside. Sometimes I see faces briefly, but they change very fast!
I am not whining about my A/C any more, because Ray fixed it Friday. He got the part in, and it was done about twenty minutes later. He also found that the Freon was down a little over a pound, so he also put more of that in.
I really caught up with all the errands I had been putting off since the car was so hot, so I grocery shopped, went to the library, and other stops, and was really tired by the time I got through.
Then watched the Gators lose, the Bucs lose, but thr Rays won!! Yay!
I also went to the Park, and saw a tv set floating in the canal, along with a lot of other debris that washed down from the houses on the other side. This was caused by the hard rain Friday night. But the gopher tortoise was sitting right by the parking area and all huddled up in his shell. He reminded me of a soldier's helmet. But, God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Where can I find security and hope in the midst of tumult and change?
Lamentations 5:19
Lord, you remain the same forever! Your throne continues from
generation to generation.
Malachi 3:6
I am the Lord and I do not change. That is why you descendants of
Jacob are not already completely destroyed.
James 1:17
Whatever is good and perfect comes to us from God above.
who creates all heaven's lights. Unlike them, He never changes
or casts shifting shadows.
Both our security and our hope are rooted in God's unchanging character.
People will make promises one day disappoint us the next. Sin or
circumstances beyond their control prevent them from keeping their
promises . God's faithfulness and love, however, are not subject to the
fluctuations of time, space or human mortality. We will never suffer
because of God's fickle whims, irrational mood swings, or inability
to handle the circumstances.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I have to admit that we have beautiful big, cloud formations these days. I just really enjoy looking at them, when I am outside. Sometimes I see faces briefly, but they change very fast!
I am not whining about my A/C any more, because Ray fixed it Friday. He got the part in, and it was done about twenty minutes later. He also found that the Freon was down a little over a pound, so he also put more of that in.
I really caught up with all the errands I had been putting off since the car was so hot, so I grocery shopped, went to the library, and other stops, and was really tired by the time I got through.
Then watched the Gators lose, the Bucs lose, but thr Rays won!! Yay!
I also went to the Park, and saw a tv set floating in the canal, along with a lot of other debris that washed down from the houses on the other side. This was caused by the hard rain Friday night. But the gopher tortoise was sitting right by the parking area and all huddled up in his shell. He reminded me of a soldier's helmet. But, God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Where can I find security and hope in the midst of tumult and change?
Lamentations 5:19
Lord, you remain the same forever! Your throne continues from
generation to generation.
Malachi 3:6
I am the Lord and I do not change. That is why you descendants of
Jacob are not already completely destroyed.
James 1:17
Whatever is good and perfect comes to us from God above.
who creates all heaven's lights. Unlike them, He never changes
or casts shifting shadows.
Both our security and our hope are rooted in God's unchanging character.
People will make promises one day disappoint us the next. Sin or
circumstances beyond their control prevent them from keeping their
promises . God's faithfulness and love, however, are not subject to the
fluctuations of time, space or human mortality. We will never suffer
because of God's fickle whims, irrational mood swings, or inability
to handle the circumstances.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, September 6, 2013
God's surprising plans
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 very little rain yesterday, even though
the thunder was right near and overhead, it sounded like. Just a little shower from all that noise.
Today will be another hot nineties day. with maybe another shower later on in the afternoon. That's ok with me because unless it is absolutely necessary, I will not go out in the car until I get the call that the part is in and the A/C can be fixed. This happens to be Ray's birthday,
and he will be working on the car! It will be a present for me!
I found out the A/C would work if I kept my finger on the button on the way to my hair appointment yesterday, but coming out a couple hours later, it would not work, so I sweltered on the way home.
Oh, well, when I met the mailman as I came out of the garage, he was drenched, but cheerful, as usual, so we commiserated about the heat. He has a Wil Myers hairdo. Kinda wild under his hat!
I heard so many cicadas singing in the trees and then lots of birds chirping yesterday evening. It was quite noisy, but God is good!
From the little devotional book Knowing God:
But as it is written;
What no eye has seen and no ear has heard,
and what has never come into a man's heart
is what God has prepared for those who love him.
1 Corinthians 2:9 HCSB
God has plans for your life, wonderful surprising plans...
but he won't force those plans upon you. To the contrary,
he has given you free will , the ability to make decisions
on your own. With that freedom to choose comes the
responsibility of living with the consequences of the
choices you make.
If you seek to live in accordance with God's will for your life--
and you should- then you will live in accordance with his
commandments. You will study God's Word , and you will
be watchful for His signs. You will associate with fellow
Christians who will encourage your spiritual growth, and
you will listen to that inner voice that speaks to you in the
quiet moments of your daily devotionals.
God intends to use you in wonderful, unexpected ways if you
let Him. The decision to seek God's plan is yours and yours
alone. The consequences of that decision have implications
that are both profound and eternal, so choose carefully
"Even when we cannot see the why and wherefore of God's
dealings, we know that there is love in and behind them, so
we can rejoice always.
J. L. Packer
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! We had very little rain yesterday, even though
the thunder was right near and overhead, it sounded like. Just a little shower from all that noise.
Today will be another hot nineties day. with maybe another shower later on in the afternoon. That's ok with me because unless it is absolutely necessary, I will not go out in the car until I get the call that the part is in and the A/C can be fixed. This happens to be Ray's birthday,
and he will be working on the car! It will be a present for me!
I found out the A/C would work if I kept my finger on the button on the way to my hair appointment yesterday, but coming out a couple hours later, it would not work, so I sweltered on the way home.
Oh, well, when I met the mailman as I came out of the garage, he was drenched, but cheerful, as usual, so we commiserated about the heat. He has a Wil Myers hairdo. Kinda wild under his hat!
I heard so many cicadas singing in the trees and then lots of birds chirping yesterday evening. It was quite noisy, but God is good!
From the little devotional book Knowing God:
But as it is written;
What no eye has seen and no ear has heard,
and what has never come into a man's heart
is what God has prepared for those who love him.
1 Corinthians 2:9 HCSB
God has plans for your life, wonderful surprising plans...
but he won't force those plans upon you. To the contrary,
he has given you free will , the ability to make decisions
on your own. With that freedom to choose comes the
responsibility of living with the consequences of the
choices you make.
If you seek to live in accordance with God's will for your life--
and you should- then you will live in accordance with his
commandments. You will study God's Word , and you will
be watchful for His signs. You will associate with fellow
Christians who will encourage your spiritual growth, and
you will listen to that inner voice that speaks to you in the
quiet moments of your daily devotionals.
God intends to use you in wonderful, unexpected ways if you
let Him. The decision to seek God's plan is yours and yours
alone. The consequences of that decision have implications
that are both profound and eternal, so choose carefully
"Even when we cannot see the why and wherefore of God's
dealings, we know that there is love in and behind them, so
we can rejoice always.
J. L. Packer
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with
thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, September 5, 2013
Wisdom from Paul
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 and a promise of a hot day, although water is still dripping off the roof from the thunderstorm last night around supper time.
I am unhappy because the start button on my A/C in the van went out yesterday, and I cannot get it fixed until tomorrow afternoon when the part comes in. I was so hot yesterday doing what errands I had to do! I guess I am just wimpy when it comes to being out of my comfort zone!
I will be selective about what errands are necessities today and tomorrow!
I did get to the park and once again, the gopher tortoise was wandering around the area where he hangs out. Even though it was very warm, quite a few people were out, but I was anxious to get home and cool off! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Romans 5:1-6
Therefore, since we have been made right in God's sight
by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus
Christ, our Lord, has done for us. Because of our faith,
Christ has brought us into this place of highest privilege
where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look
forward to sharing God's glory.
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
I am unhappy because the start button on my A/C in the van went out yesterday, and I cannot get it fixed until tomorrow afternoon when the part comes in. I was so hot yesterday doing what errands I had to do! I guess I am just wimpy when it comes to being out of my comfort zone!
I will be selective about what errands are necessities today and tomorrow!
I did get to the park and once again, the gopher tortoise was wandering around the area where he hangs out. Even though it was very warm, quite a few people were out, but I was anxious to get home and cool off! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Romans 5:1-6
Therefore, since we have been made right in God's sight
by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus
Christ, our Lord, has done for us. Because of our faith,
Christ has brought us into this place of highest privilege
where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look
forward to sharing God's glory.
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
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Isaiah
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! Surprise! No rain early this morning. We not only had a heavy shower early yesterday, but when I went out about 4, all at once a heavy rain came down over just a couple streets...long enough to get the car pretty wet and I had to turn the wipers and lights on. But the shower was just a few blocks wide. I always said, it can rain on one side of the street and not the other, and that seems to be true!
But it was already very warm early, so summer is still here. When I went outside late last night, the air seemed to have a little bit of fall in it, though, so maybe it won't be long...
I got a lot of things done yesterday that I had been putting off, like ironing, ugh, but also, laundry, and other uninteresting but necessary chores. I still made time to read, and watched part of the Rays game which did not come on until 10 PM! which is too late for me!
I saw the brown gopher again at the park. He seems to be bolder about coming out of his tunnel, but maybe I have been going over there at the right time. There were quite a few people sitting on benches or just enjoying the views in the late afternoon. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Isaiah 40:28-31
Have you never heard or understood? Don't you know that the Lord is the
everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth?
He never grows faint or weary. No one can measure the depths of his
understanding . He gives power to those who are tired
and worn out. He offers strength to the weak. Even youths will
become exhausted, and young men will give up. But those who
wait on the Lord will find new strength. They will fly high on wings
like eagles. They will run and not grow weary.
They will walk and not faint.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers
with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
But it was already very warm early, so summer is still here. When I went outside late last night, the air seemed to have a little bit of fall in it, though, so maybe it won't be long...
I got a lot of things done yesterday that I had been putting off, like ironing, ugh, but also, laundry, and other uninteresting but necessary chores. I still made time to read, and watched part of the Rays game which did not come on until 10 PM! which is too late for me!
I saw the brown gopher again at the park. He seems to be bolder about coming out of his tunnel, but maybe I have been going over there at the right time. There were quite a few people sitting on benches or just enjoying the views in the late afternoon. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Isaiah 40:28-31
Have you never heard or understood? Don't you know that the Lord is the
everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth?
He never grows faint or weary. No one can measure the depths of his
understanding . He gives power to those who are tired
and worn out. He offers strength to the weak. Even youths will
become exhausted, and young men will give up. But those who
wait on the Lord will find new strength. They will fly high on wings
like eagles. They will run and not grow weary.
They will walk and not faint.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers
with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
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! We must have had a silent rain early this morning, because water is still dripping off the roof and when I opened the front door to get the paper, it was wet, (both the plastic cover and the porch). My thoughtful paper carriers still place the Times on a chair right by the door, so the rain had to blow in pretty far to get the paper wet.
But it is mostly sunshiny right now, and will still be very hot later on. I had a fairly quiet long weekend. Brian and I had lunch at the Olive Garden yesterday and I enjoyed their soup and salad. Bread sticks weren't too bad, either!
I saw the large, brown tortoise moseying almost up to the parking lot when I visited the park.. I drove in very close to him and he looked at me, but did not seem afraid. They are really used to people. The ibises were methodically doing their pecking, slowly moving as a unit through the grass. They always have dirty beaks! But God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
1 John 2:7-11
Dear Friends, I am not writing a new commandment.
for it is an old one you have always had, right from the
beginning. This commandment-to love one another-
is the same message you have heard before. Yet it is
also new. This commandment is true in Christ and is
true among you, because the darkness is disappearing
and the true light is already shining.
If anyone says, "I am living in the light," but hates a
Christian brother or sister , that person is still living in
darkness. Any person 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
This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! We must have had a silent rain early this morning, because water is still dripping off the roof and when I opened the front door to get the paper, it was wet, (both the plastic cover and the porch). My thoughtful paper carriers still place the Times on a chair right by the door, so the rain had to blow in pretty far to get the paper wet.
But it is mostly sunshiny right now, and will still be very hot later on. I had a fairly quiet long weekend. Brian and I had lunch at the Olive Garden yesterday and I enjoyed their soup and salad. Bread sticks weren't too bad, either!
I saw the large, brown tortoise moseying almost up to the parking lot when I visited the park.. I drove in very close to him and he looked at me, but did not seem afraid. They are really used to people. The ibises were methodically doing their pecking, slowly moving as a unit through the grass. They always have dirty beaks! But God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
1 John 2:7-11
Dear Friends, I am not writing a new commandment.
for it is an old one you have always had, right from the
beginning. This commandment-to love one another-
is the same message you have heard before. Yet it is
also new. This commandment is true in Christ and is
true among you, because the darkness is disappearing
and the true light is already shining.
If anyone says, "I am living in the light," but hates a
Christian brother or sister , that person is still living in
darkness. Any person 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
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