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 know, I know it's later this morning. No excuses, except I got up at the same time and did my routine a little differently, so , at least, I got my praying in, and breakfast eaten.
Well, lots of thunder for a short while, but no rain last night, but we really did not need any for a while, as everything is still wet from the two previous rains. I went to the Park yesterday and all the weeds are flourishing, along with the grass. A turtle and three anhingas were sunning on the banks of the weir and ibises were busily pecking . as usual. Not many people there as school was still in session.
Later on, after my shopping trip, I saw a large osprey sitting on the line stretching across Turner's Creek, right across from Burger King. Maybe he wanted it his way! :o)
Also, I had a surprise visit from my sister-in-law who lives on the west side of town, so we don't see each other that often. We had a pleasant visit for a short while, until she had to go. It was good to see her. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Where can I find protection and safety?
Psalm 121:2-8 My help comes from the Lord who made the heavens and earth! He will not let you stumble and fall; the one who watches over you will not sleep. Indeed he who watches over Israel never tires and never sleeps. The Lord himself watches over you! The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade. The sun will not hurt you by day nor the moon by night. The Lord keeps you from all evil and preserves your life. The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.
Our protection is directly related to the character, competence, and capability of our protector. The Lord is unsurpassed in all areas. The Maker of heaven and earth is our personal protector. He never sleeps and never turns his attention from us. We walk securely because he guards our every step.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Wisdom
Good morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Rain is still dripping off the roof from a downpour last night after dark and we also had rain the night before, so just as we think we are too dry, God sends rain. He always supplies our needs! The podacarpus hedge outside my window has diamond-like raindrops sparkling on the tops of the branches and it really looks like rain again this morning.
But the weather was good for Labor Day outings yesterday and the park was pretty full of people walking ...not so many having picnics for some reason, but just enjoying the outdoors. The weather is a little cooler now and really nice for walking or running. When I came out of church Sunday, I heard the noisy cicadas in the trees , almost deafening and yesterday I found one on the porch right outside the door. It was large and I nudged it with my foot, but it didn't move, so I thought it was dead. Guess not, because later on, it was not there any more. I don't know whether this is the seven year locust blight or just the year of the cicadas, but God knows and He is Good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What are the benefits of wisdom?
Proverbs 9:10 Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in understanding.
Psalm 110:10 Reverence for the Lord is the foundation of true wisdom. The rewards of wisdom come to all who obey him. Praise his name forever!
Wisdom is not simply knowing facts and figures. It is understanding our accountability to and our full dependence on our Creator. It's not what we know but who we know.
Proverbs 3:21-26 My child, don't lose sight of good planning and insight., Hang on to them, for they fill you with life and bring you honor and respect. They keep you safe on your way and keep your feet from stumbling. You can lie down without fear and enjoy pleasant dreams. You need not be afraid of disaster or the destruction that comes upon the wicked, for the Lord is your security. He will keep your feet from being caught in a trap.
Wisdom produces honor in our lives and protects us from trouble. Wise people know the difference between right and wrong and choose to do what is right. More than that, wisdom is choosing to apply God's truth and principles to our daily relationships and situations.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
But the weather was good for Labor Day outings yesterday and the park was pretty full of people walking ...not so many having picnics for some reason, but just enjoying the outdoors. The weather is a little cooler now and really nice for walking or running. When I came out of church Sunday, I heard the noisy cicadas in the trees , almost deafening and yesterday I found one on the porch right outside the door. It was large and I nudged it with my foot, but it didn't move, so I thought it was dead. Guess not, because later on, it was not there any more. I don't know whether this is the seven year locust blight or just the year of the cicadas, but God knows and He is Good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What are the benefits of wisdom?
Proverbs 9:10 Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in understanding.
Psalm 110:10 Reverence for the Lord is the foundation of true wisdom. The rewards of wisdom come to all who obey him. Praise his name forever!
Wisdom is not simply knowing facts and figures. It is understanding our accountability to and our full dependence on our Creator. It's not what we know but who we know.
Proverbs 3:21-26 My child, don't lose sight of good planning and insight., Hang on to them, for they fill you with life and bring you honor and respect. They keep you safe on your way and keep your feet from stumbling. You can lie down without fear and enjoy pleasant dreams. You need not be afraid of disaster or the destruction that comes upon the wicked, for the Lord is your security. He will keep your feet from being caught in a trap.
Wisdom produces honor in our lives and protects us from trouble. Wise people know the difference between right and wrong and choose to do what is right. More than that, wisdom is choosing to apply God's truth and principles to our daily relationships and situations.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, September 3, 2010
A Benediction
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Another beautiful cool morning, and I really think leaves are beginning to fall. Oh, no! Fall can't be here already! I welcome the cooler weather but not the leaves!
I notices they are (leaves) are starting to fall in the park, also. The maples are usually the first to start, but it was still a sunshiny, bright very warm day. I took the van to Cartek yesterday and had it serviced and the cool waiting room was very welcome. It was so quiet I almost took a nap sitting up! :o) By the way, my nose is almost healed. It looks much better on the outside and , hopefully, will soon heal on the inside. Like my friend who knows; radiation is the burn that keeps on burning!. But God is good!
The benediction from Jude from The Message:
But you, dear friends, carefully build yourselves up in this most holy faith by praying in the Holy Spirit, staying right at the center of God's love, keeping your arms open and outstretched, ready for the mercy of our Master, Jesus Christ. This is the unending life, the real life!
Go easy on those who hesitate in the faith. Go after those who take the wrong way. Be tender with sinners, but not too soft on sin. The sin itself stinks to high heaven.
And now to him who can keep you on your feet, standing tall in his bright presence, fresh and celebrating-to our one God, our only Savior, through Jesus Christ, our Master, be glory, majesty, strength, and rule before all time, and now, and to the end of all time. Yes.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I notices they are (leaves) are starting to fall in the park, also. The maples are usually the first to start, but it was still a sunshiny, bright very warm day. I took the van to Cartek yesterday and had it serviced and the cool waiting room was very welcome. It was so quiet I almost took a nap sitting up! :o) By the way, my nose is almost healed. It looks much better on the outside and , hopefully, will soon heal on the inside. Like my friend who knows; radiation is the burn that keeps on burning!. But God is good!
The benediction from Jude from The Message:
But you, dear friends, carefully build yourselves up in this most holy faith by praying in the Holy Spirit, staying right at the center of God's love, keeping your arms open and outstretched, ready for the mercy of our Master, Jesus Christ. This is the unending life, the real life!
Go easy on those who hesitate in the faith. Go after those who take the wrong way. Be tender with sinners, but not too soft on sin. The sin itself stinks to high heaven.
And now to him who can keep you on your feet, standing tall in his bright presence, fresh and celebrating-to our one God, our only Savior, through Jesus Christ, our Master, be glory, majesty, strength, and rule before all time, and now, and to the end of all time. Yes.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Work
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 cool morning with temps in the seventies and drier air! What a change from the heat and humidity we have had all summer! The sun is shining and very few clouds in the sky so far. Thank you, Lord, for keeping hurricane Earl away from us!
Yesterday, our flat roof was coated and should be dry by now. The weather was hot and perfect for it. I went to the Park, and very few people were there, but the mowers had been there so no toadstools were left and the most used spaces were nice and trim. The ibises were enjoying the newly exposed grubs and whatever else they eat and I watched an anhinga zoom along the canal looking for a place to land. I wonder if they can spy fish from the air...Anyway, God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Excerpts from Paul's letter to the Colossians:
So we have continued praying for you ever since we first heard about you. We ask God to give you a complete understanding of what he wants to do in your lives, and we ask him to make you wise with spiritual wisdom. Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and you will continually do good, kind things for others. All the while, you will learn to know God better and better.
We also pray that you will be strengthened with his glorious power so that you will have all the patience and endurance you need...
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
Yesterday, our flat roof was coated and should be dry by now. The weather was hot and perfect for it. I went to the Park, and very few people were there, but the mowers had been there so no toadstools were left and the most used spaces were nice and trim. The ibises were enjoying the newly exposed grubs and whatever else they eat and I watched an anhinga zoom along the canal looking for a place to land. I wonder if they can spy fish from the air...Anyway, God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Excerpts from Paul's letter to the Colossians:
So we have continued praying for you ever since we first heard about you. We ask God to give you a complete understanding of what he wants to do in your lives, and we ask him to make you wise with spiritual wisdom. Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and you will continually do good, kind things for others. All the while, you will learn to know God better and better.
We also pray that you will be strengthened with his glorious power so that you will have all the patience and endurance you need...
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, September 1, 2010
The Beatitudes
Good Morning Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! Happy September First! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! And what a beautiful start to the day! I hope some of you saw the sunrise with the beautiful pinks glowing against the blue in the sky!
Just gorgeous!
When I stepped out on the porch, a fat, little frog was perched right on the edge of the step, looking just like a little Buddha the way he was posed. He soon hopped away, though, knowing snack time was over since I turned off the light.
The air is definitely cooler and still feels like a touch of fall and cooler weather to come. A welcome relief from the heat and humidity. I went to the Park yesterday for some quiet meditation and watched as an anhinga came up out of the water with a fish in its beak. He expertly flipped it until the head was aimed down and gulped the fish down. I could see the large bulge in his neck as the snack went down. Then the anhinga flew up to a branch over head and started flipping his feathers and spread his wings to dry out for the next underwater dive. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
"God blesses those who realize their need for him.
for the Kingdom of Heaven is given to them.
God blesses those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
God blesses those who are gentle and lowly,
for the whole world will belong to them.
God blesses those who are hungry and
thirsty for justice, for they will receive it in full.
God blesses those who are merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
God blesses those whose hearts are pure,
for they will see God.
God blesses those who work for peace,
for they will be called the children of God.
God blesses those who are persecuted
because they live for God,
for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.
God blesses you when you are mocked and persecuted and lied about because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted, too.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Just gorgeous!
When I stepped out on the porch, a fat, little frog was perched right on the edge of the step, looking just like a little Buddha the way he was posed. He soon hopped away, though, knowing snack time was over since I turned off the light.
The air is definitely cooler and still feels like a touch of fall and cooler weather to come. A welcome relief from the heat and humidity. I went to the Park yesterday for some quiet meditation and watched as an anhinga came up out of the water with a fish in its beak. He expertly flipped it until the head was aimed down and gulped the fish down. I could see the large bulge in his neck as the snack went down. Then the anhinga flew up to a branch over head and started flipping his feathers and spread his wings to dry out for the next underwater dive. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
"God blesses those who realize their need for him.
for the Kingdom of Heaven is given to them.
God blesses those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
God blesses those who are gentle and lowly,
for the whole world will belong to them.
God blesses those who are hungry and
thirsty for justice, for they will receive it in full.
God blesses those who are merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
God blesses those whose hearts are pure,
for they will see God.
God blesses those who work for peace,
for they will be called the children of God.
God blesses those who are persecuted
because they live for God,
for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.
God blesses you when you are mocked and persecuted and lied about because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted, too.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Comfort
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! And it is a glorious morning. The air is cooler and the breeze is blowing and no rain yesterday and so far, none today.
I was able to accomplish a lot yesterday, some that I really didn't plan on doing, but I had batteries put in three watches, went to the library to return and check out some books...it was very quiet, because school was not out yet...and also, decided to get some new frames for my new glasses with a little help from my niece, who works at Dowdy Optical. This is always very difficult for me to do because what I want does not look good on my face, so I have to decide what an alternative is. Sigh. Decisions, decisions.
Well, after that, I went to the supermarket and who should be there but two friends from church, so we chatted for a bit, and then parted to finish our chores.
Of course, I always have time to go to the Park, which I did, and enjoyed the large egret, anhingas drying their wings and patches of toadstools which are popping up all over due to all the rain. By mid-afternoon, I was worn out, but thankful for all I was able to get done! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How does God comfort us?
Psalm 23:4 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.
Psalm 30:5 His anger lasts for a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime! Weeping may go on all night, but joy comes with the morning.
Matthew 5:4 God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
God comforts us by staying close beside us in difficulty, by blessing us even when we are in mourning, and by promising us joy to come.
Psalm 34:18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those who are crushed in spirit.
God measures problems by love, not by size. Even small things can be avenues for God's great care. Don't look at the size of your problem but look at the greatness of God's love and concern.
(The scriptures above were written because of a conversation I had yesterday with a friend, who sympathized with me on the rough year it has been for her and me so far. But there have also been many joys during the year and God is always faithful to bring joy after sorrows. I am thankful for my loving friends and the caring they have shown me).
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I was able to accomplish a lot yesterday, some that I really didn't plan on doing, but I had batteries put in three watches, went to the library to return and check out some books...it was very quiet, because school was not out yet...and also, decided to get some new frames for my new glasses with a little help from my niece, who works at Dowdy Optical. This is always very difficult for me to do because what I want does not look good on my face, so I have to decide what an alternative is. Sigh. Decisions, decisions.
Well, after that, I went to the supermarket and who should be there but two friends from church, so we chatted for a bit, and then parted to finish our chores.
Of course, I always have time to go to the Park, which I did, and enjoyed the large egret, anhingas drying their wings and patches of toadstools which are popping up all over due to all the rain. By mid-afternoon, I was worn out, but thankful for all I was able to get done! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How does God comfort us?
Psalm 23:4 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.
Psalm 30:5 His anger lasts for a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime! Weeping may go on all night, but joy comes with the morning.
Matthew 5:4 God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
God comforts us by staying close beside us in difficulty, by blessing us even when we are in mourning, and by promising us joy to come.
Psalm 34:18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those who are crushed in spirit.
God measures problems by love, not by size. Even small things can be avenues for God's great care. Don't look at the size of your problem but look at the greatness of God's love and concern.
(The scriptures above were written because of a conversation I had yesterday with a friend, who sympathized with me on the rough year it has been for her and me so far. But there have also been many joys during the year and God is always faithful to bring joy after sorrows. I am thankful for my loving friends and the caring they have shown me).
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, August 30, 2010
Psoaring thru Psalm 37
Good Morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside this morning, it really felt like a touch of fall! Cool breeze and lower temps. Yay! Perhaps we really are going to cool off soon. We had our usual rain last night, so I'm sure that helped keep the air cool.
We had a wonderful church service yesterday, and I felt loved from the moment I walked in the door. Hugs, and greetings and inquiries about how I was! It is a wonderful feeling to know there are so many kind, caring friends around. That is the only place for me to be on Sunday morning. "Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place," A favorite hymn.
I went to the Park several times over the weekend and sometimes saw lots of people, sometimes very few. One family was carefully watching a gopher tortoise walking across the parking lot to the other side where he usually hangs out. They were fascinated with him. I also saw a group in camos doing something loosely resembling totally uncoordinated calisthenics. Well, at least they were trying! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Don't worry about the wicked.
Don't envy those who do wrong.
For like grass, they soon fade away,
Like springtime flowers,
they soon wither.
Trust in the Lord and do good.
Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.
Take delight in the Lord.
and He will give you your heart's desires.
Commit everything you do to the Lord.
Trust him and he will help you.
He will make your innocence as clear as the dawn,
and the justice of your cause will
shine like the noonday sun.
Be still in the presence of the Lord,
and wait patiently for him to act.
Don't worry about evil people who prosper
or fret about their wicked schemes.
Stop your anger!
Turn from your rage!
Do not envy others---
it only leads to harm.
For the wicked will be destroyed
but those who trust in the Lord
will possess the land.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
We had a wonderful church service yesterday, and I felt loved from the moment I walked in the door. Hugs, and greetings and inquiries about how I was! It is a wonderful feeling to know there are so many kind, caring friends around. That is the only place for me to be on Sunday morning. "Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place," A favorite hymn.
I went to the Park several times over the weekend and sometimes saw lots of people, sometimes very few. One family was carefully watching a gopher tortoise walking across the parking lot to the other side where he usually hangs out. They were fascinated with him. I also saw a group in camos doing something loosely resembling totally uncoordinated calisthenics. Well, at least they were trying! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Don't worry about the wicked.
Don't envy those who do wrong.
For like grass, they soon fade away,
Like springtime flowers,
they soon wither.
Trust in the Lord and do good.
Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.
Take delight in the Lord.
and He will give you your heart's desires.
Commit everything you do to the Lord.
Trust him and he will help you.
He will make your innocence as clear as the dawn,
and the justice of your cause will
shine like the noonday sun.
Be still in the presence of the Lord,
and wait patiently for him to act.
Don't worry about evil people who prosper
or fret about their wicked schemes.
Stop your anger!
Turn from your rage!
Do not envy others---
it only leads to harm.
For the wicked will be destroyed
but those who trust in the Lord
will possess the land.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
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