Monday, December 17, 2007
Friday, December 14, 2007
Jammin' thru James
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the cool day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! This may be the last day of our 80ish weather if the cold front comes through this weekend. I heard a prediction that rain will come, and if so, it will be really appreciated. We are dry!
I was noticing at the Park yesterday, that the sprinklers are working again, because the grass is greener than it has been. The gators seem to be hiding lately, but I am sure they are someplace under the water or off in the shrubbery. Terry came over after work and put up our outside Christmas lights, so we look festive on this side of the street. The other side is pretty bright already. Terry also invited us to the outside party they always have at Christmas, so we will go. Hope it is not too cold next week! But God has blessed us with great friends! He is Good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
James 3:13-18 "If you are wise and understand God's ways, live a life of steady goodness so that only good deeds will pour forth. And if you don't brag about the good you do, then you will be truly wise! But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your hearts, don't brag about being wise. That is the worst kind of lie. For jealousy and selfishness are not God's kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and motivated by the Devil. For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and every kind of evil.
But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good deeds. It shows no partiality and is always sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of goodness. "
When you bow down before the Lord and admit your dependence on him, he will lift you up and give you honor.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I was noticing at the Park yesterday, that the sprinklers are working again, because the grass is greener than it has been. The gators seem to be hiding lately, but I am sure they are someplace under the water or off in the shrubbery. Terry came over after work and put up our outside Christmas lights, so we look festive on this side of the street. The other side is pretty bright already. Terry also invited us to the outside party they always have at Christmas, so we will go. Hope it is not too cold next week! But God has blessed us with great friends! He is Good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
James 3:13-18 "If you are wise and understand God's ways, live a life of steady goodness so that only good deeds will pour forth. And if you don't brag about the good you do, then you will be truly wise! But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your hearts, don't brag about being wise. That is the worst kind of lie. For jealousy and selfishness are not God's kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and motivated by the Devil. For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and every kind of evil.
But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good deeds. It shows no partiality and is always sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of goodness. "
When you bow down before the Lord and admit your dependence on him, he will lift you up and give you honor.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Endurance
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the lovely day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! It's a cool 69 degrees outside this morning and a little mist earlier, but the stars were shining brightly and no clouds visible. We have another warm day in store for us, but cooler this weekend. And that's the weather report!
I enjoyed the shade on my walk yesterday, because the sun was blinding and quite warm. The leaves are still falling from the maple trees and so I scuffed along the boardwalk, looking for the birds I heard, but couldn't see them. The shrubbery is still quite thick from the trees and bushes that do not shed, so it is difficult to see through them.
I stood on the second level of the tower, exchanging greetings with a regular, and let the wind cool my face, while I watched a skimmer dive down into the water. It did not come up with a fish, however, but circled around to try again. A green heron flew and landed on a branch underneath the anhinga who picks the same tree each morning to dry his wings. Also, I was thrilled to see a roseate spoonbill perched on a limb over the canal. They are so pretty! God is Awesome!
From Hebrews NLT:
"Patient endurance is what you need now, so you will continue to do God's will, then you will receive all that he has promised." Hebrews 10:36
"With Jesus' help let us continually offer our sacrifice of praise to God by proclaiming the glory of his name. Don't forget to do good and to share what you have with those in need, for such sacrifices are very pleasing to God."
"And now , may the God of peace, who brought again from the dead, our Lord Jesus, equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, all that is pleasing to him. Jesus is the great Shepherd of the sheep by an everlasting covenant, signed with his blood. To him be glory forever and ever. Amen"
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love.
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I enjoyed the shade on my walk yesterday, because the sun was blinding and quite warm. The leaves are still falling from the maple trees and so I scuffed along the boardwalk, looking for the birds I heard, but couldn't see them. The shrubbery is still quite thick from the trees and bushes that do not shed, so it is difficult to see through them.
I stood on the second level of the tower, exchanging greetings with a regular, and let the wind cool my face, while I watched a skimmer dive down into the water. It did not come up with a fish, however, but circled around to try again. A green heron flew and landed on a branch underneath the anhinga who picks the same tree each morning to dry his wings. Also, I was thrilled to see a roseate spoonbill perched on a limb over the canal. They are so pretty! God is Awesome!
From Hebrews NLT:
"Patient endurance is what you need now, so you will continue to do God's will, then you will receive all that he has promised." Hebrews 10:36
"With Jesus' help let us continually offer our sacrifice of praise to God by proclaiming the glory of his name. Don't forget to do good and to share what you have with those in need, for such sacrifices are very pleasing to God."
"And now , may the God of peace, who brought again from the dead, our Lord Jesus, equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, all that is pleasing to him. Jesus is the great Shepherd of the sheep by an everlasting covenant, signed with his blood. To him be glory forever and ever. Amen"
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love.
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
James
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the beautiful day that the Lord has made, and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside this morning, the air was much cooler, so I opened a couple windows. Venus was brilliant in the East and the other stars were visible in the night sky.
The Park is getting busier this time of year... different tags from many different states are seen on the cars. Looks like our winter visitors are already here, escaping from the ice storms and snow in many states. We are supposed to get cooler weather this weekend and I am kinda looking forward to it, but we need rain badly. The water in the park is way down and the special spot where I always stop and look for bunnies and whatever else is there, is now dry. In God's timing, it will come. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
James 1 Faith and endurance
"Dear brothers and sisters, whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything.
If you need wisdom - if you want to know what God wants you to do - ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. People like that should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. They can't make up their minds. They waver back and forth in everything they do. ...
God blesses the people who patiently endure testing. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
Whatever is good and perfect comes to us from God above, who created all heaven's lights. Unlike them, he never changes or casts shifting shadows. In his goodness he chose to make us his own children by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became his choice possession."
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
The Park is getting busier this time of year... different tags from many different states are seen on the cars. Looks like our winter visitors are already here, escaping from the ice storms and snow in many states. We are supposed to get cooler weather this weekend and I am kinda looking forward to it, but we need rain badly. The water in the park is way down and the special spot where I always stop and look for bunnies and whatever else is there, is now dry. In God's timing, it will come. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
James 1 Faith and endurance
"Dear brothers and sisters, whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything.
If you need wisdom - if you want to know what God wants you to do - ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. People like that should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. They can't make up their minds. They waver back and forth in everything they do. ...
God blesses the people who patiently endure testing. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
Whatever is good and perfect comes to us from God above, who created all heaven's lights. Unlike them, he never changes or casts shifting shadows. In his goodness he chose to make us his own children by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became his choice possession."
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
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! Well, I turned on the A/C yesterday, because the house was so warm and since today's high will be almost 85, the A/C will stay on!
As I stepped outside this morning, I noticed the wispy clouds were hiding Venus, but stars were visible in the western sky and shining brightly. It will be a much better day here than in the snowy, icy north!
As I walked yesterday, I enjoyed the breeze on my skin, but was too warm when I finished. Leaves are still falling as I scuff through them, admiring the different colors. I watched a green heron gazing intently at the water, and then I saw one on the other side of the tower. Someone had thrown an orange into the water, and a critter was after it, making it swirl and bounce around the water, but I never could see what it was. I suspect a turtle was biting on it. They probably don't mind the sour taste, but the oranges make great pies! God is Good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
When I am confused, where do I turn for clarity, wisdom, understanding, and direction?
James1:5-8 "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 me, 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 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 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
As I stepped outside this morning, I noticed the wispy clouds were hiding Venus, but stars were visible in the western sky and shining brightly. It will be a much better day here than in the snowy, icy north!
As I walked yesterday, I enjoyed the breeze on my skin, but was too warm when I finished. Leaves are still falling as I scuff through them, admiring the different colors. I watched a green heron gazing intently at the water, and then I saw one on the other side of the tower. Someone had thrown an orange into the water, and a critter was after it, making it swirl and bounce around the water, but I never could see what it was. I suspect a turtle was biting on it. They probably don't mind the sour taste, but the oranges make great pies! God is Good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
When I am confused, where do I turn for clarity, wisdom, understanding, and direction?
James1:5-8 "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 me, 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 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 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, December 10, 2007
Work
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the cool day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside in the cool darkness this morning, I noticed Venus shining brightly, but this is the time when we don't see the moon for awhile. I almost turned on the A/C yesterday, the house was so warm. I am sure that winter is on the way, though... some day!
Have you noticed all the woodstorks around all the waterways lately? Seems like there are more than usual. We have several ditches and lakes near our house and there are always woodstorks, just standing, looking very depressed when their heads are drawn in and beaks are pointing down. I always enjoy looking at them... also, hundreds of birds on the lines all around the neighborhood. Must be very cold in the north now, to bring so many of them to town.
We saw lots of people at the Park over the weekend.. having picnics and family get togethers. The squirrels always come up and beg but they won't eat just anything. Unlike most of us they are particular about their diets. But God is great!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What does the Lord promise to those who work hard?
Proverbs 22:29 "Do you see any truly competent workers? They will serve kings rather than ordinary people."
Faithful work makes a way for us to do greater work. God promises to bless us as we use the gifts he has given us.
Proverbs 10:4 "Lazy people are soon poor; hard workers get rich."
Proverbs 21:5 "Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty."
Colossians 3:23-24 "Work hard and cheerfully at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your servant, and the Master you are serving is Christ."
God promises a reward to those who work hard. That reward can include - but is not limited to - financial prosperity. It may be the rewards of respect and personal satisfaction or the joy of contributing to the welfare of another. How will God help me when my work is hard?
Psalm 145:14 "The Lord helps the fallen and lifts up those bent beneath their loads."
As with any burden we bear, we can trust God to help us on the job.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Have you noticed all the woodstorks around all the waterways lately? Seems like there are more than usual. We have several ditches and lakes near our house and there are always woodstorks, just standing, looking very depressed when their heads are drawn in and beaks are pointing down. I always enjoy looking at them... also, hundreds of birds on the lines all around the neighborhood. Must be very cold in the north now, to bring so many of them to town.
We saw lots of people at the Park over the weekend.. having picnics and family get togethers. The squirrels always come up and beg but they won't eat just anything. Unlike most of us they are particular about their diets. But God is great!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What does the Lord promise to those who work hard?
Proverbs 22:29 "Do you see any truly competent workers? They will serve kings rather than ordinary people."
Faithful work makes a way for us to do greater work. God promises to bless us as we use the gifts he has given us.
Proverbs 10:4 "Lazy people are soon poor; hard workers get rich."
Proverbs 21:5 "Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty."
Colossians 3:23-24 "Work hard and cheerfully at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your servant, and the Master you are serving is Christ."
God promises a reward to those who work hard. That reward can include - but is not limited to - financial prosperity. It may be the rewards of respect and personal satisfaction or the joy of contributing to the welfare of another. How will God help me when my work is hard?
Psalm 145:14 "The Lord helps the fallen and lifts up those bent beneath their loads."
As with any burden we bear, we can trust God to help us on the job.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Be careful when you eat a mouse!
Good afternoon Dear riends and Prayer partners!
Just thought I would tell you about a conversation I had with Terry and Steve at the Park yesterday. Steve came out of the building with a very long corn snake wrapped around his neck. He said the snake was cold, even though the hot rock was in the cage overnight.
He also told about the large black snake they have that has been sick, the snake had an abscess on its head caused by a broken tooth.
When I asked how the tooth got broken, he said probably from a mouse bone. He had to take the snake to a vet and now has to give it injections by lifting up a scale and shooting it through the skin.
The moral to this little tale is... be careful when you eat a mouse!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Just thought I would tell you about a conversation I had with Terry and Steve at the Park yesterday. Steve came out of the building with a very long corn snake wrapped around his neck. He said the snake was cold, even though the hot rock was in the cage overnight.
He also told about the large black snake they have that has been sick, the snake had an abscess on its head caused by a broken tooth.
When I asked how the tooth got broken, he said probably from a mouse bone. He had to take the snake to a vet and now has to give it injections by lifting up a scale and shooting it through the skin.
The moral to this little tale is... be careful when you eat a mouse!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
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