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 a little later than I wanted to be, due to a balky computer). We are so thankful that Gustav turned out not to be as devastating as first thought! God is good!
I went for a walk in the park yesterday, a little early for a change, and saw lots of twigs and branches on the boardwalk from the wind and rain, and a young tree down across Mama gators hole. I didn't see her when I first walked by, but went on to the tower, and came back and there she was.
Still waiting for activity from the nest. More people started coming as I was finishing up the walk, so I was glad I started early.
After I got home, while I was still very warm and damp, I started cleaning up our yard, which was trashy from the fallout from the oak trees. I was drenched with sweat after about an hour, but picked up most everything, so the yard looks better! God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What can I do when I am overcome with fear? How do I find the strength to go on?
Psalm 46:1-2 God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear, even if earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea.
John 14:27 I am leaving you with a gift-peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn't like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubles or afraid.
God is greater than the most severe threats in life. We will not be surprised or overcome by trouble if we continually turn to the Lord.
2 Timothy 1:7 God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.
Debilitating fear is not from the Lord. We can call upon God's Spirit to give us the power to face our foes, the love to overcome evil with good, and the discipline to persevere through our trials. We have been given the power to turn from fear to faith.
How can I confront the sources of my fear?
Psalm 27:1-3 the Lord is my light and my salvation-so why should I be afraid? The Lord protects me from danger-so why should I tremble? When evil people come to destroy me, when my enemies and foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though a mighty army surrounds me, my heart will know no fear. Even if they attack me, I remain confident.
Romans 8:31,32 What can we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us? Since God did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won't God who gave us Christ, also give us everything else?
Fear can come from human intimidation, fueled by irrational anxiety. Both the psalmist and Paul remind us to look not at the mortal creatures who threaten us, but at the Lord God Almighty who loves us. God is for us. Instead of fearing others we can face them with courage and confidence because we know their limitations. We also know our enemies will ultimately answer to God.
Isaiah 41:10 Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.
God's presence calms our panic. God's care is the antidote to our despair. God's power resolves our problems.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Friday, August 29, 2008
Psoaring thru Psalms
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 really late this morning, sending this, but getting hubby ready for the day takes about an hour and then breakfast and prayer time, but here I am and this is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it!
When I stepped outside in the dark this morning, the moon was no longer visible, so we will wait for the new moon in a week or so. Stars were much brighter, though, and once again, a plane was twinkling as I heard the far off sound of the engines flying through space!
Instead of walking through the park yesterday, I did my walking from one end of Sears Essentials to the other, as we waited for new tires to be installed on the van. That's a big place! The scenery definitely was not the same, but the air was cooler!
We did ride through the park later and not many people were there, because of heat and work. There is a little old lady who walks daily with her much younger relative or caregiver, and she always wears a sweater! I pass her dripping, and she looks very cool! God is good!
From Psalm 37 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 rang!
Do not envy others-
it only leads to harm.
For the wicked will be destroyed
but those who trust to the Lord
will possess the land.
Colossians 4:23
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.
Enjoy your holiday, all you workers!
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
When I stepped outside in the dark this morning, the moon was no longer visible, so we will wait for the new moon in a week or so. Stars were much brighter, though, and once again, a plane was twinkling as I heard the far off sound of the engines flying through space!
Instead of walking through the park yesterday, I did my walking from one end of Sears Essentials to the other, as we waited for new tires to be installed on the van. That's a big place! The scenery definitely was not the same, but the air was cooler!
We did ride through the park later and not many people were there, because of heat and work. There is a little old lady who walks daily with her much younger relative or caregiver, and she always wears a sweater! I pass her dripping, and she looks very cool! God is good!
From Psalm 37 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 rang!
Do not envy others-
it only leads to harm.
For the wicked will be destroyed
but those who trust to the Lord
will possess the land.
Colossians 4:23
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.
Enjoy your holiday, all you workers!
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Opportunities
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!
Once again this morning when I stepped outside in the dark before the dawn, the thin crescent moon was still brilliant in the eastern sky and the stars were brighter, which meant another nearly clear sky. God is good!
I walked with my umbrella for shade, yesterday, because while there is a lot of shade on the boardwalk, there is also lots of sun in spots, so it was cooler with my created shade. I heard a hawk calling with a different little ending, and it was nearby, but I could not spy it in the trees. I did see an osprey take off with a very wide wingspread and head off toward the lake.
When I came to Mama gator the garland of leaves was dead and no longer on her head. She was in the same place in the water, so I spoke to her and walked on to the tower. When I came back, she was asleep with her eyes closed. That was the first time I had seen her eyes closed, so she must have had a rough night.
I walked on back to the first covered shelter and looked at the younger gator hanging out just below the rail. A toddler was looking at it and babbling something about it. Children are never too young to learn about nature. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How can I face challenging, sometimes intimidating, opportunities?
Philippians 4:13 I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need.
Our ability to face challenges is rooted in Christ, not in ourselves. With Christ's help, we can make the most of every opportunity.
Revelation 3:8 I know all the things you do, and I have opened a door for you that no one can shut. You have little strength, yet you obeyed my word and did not deny me.
We can trust that nothing will prevent us from fulfilling the opportunity God has for us.
How do I know if an opportunity is from the Lord?
Joshua 1: 7-9 Be strong and very courageous. Obey all the laws Moses gave you. Do not turn away from them, and you will be successful in everything you do. Study this Book of the Law continually. Meditate on it day and night so you may be sure to obey all that is written in it. Only then will you succeed. I command you--be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
Ephesians 5:15-20 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.
God's opportunities conform to his word. Anything that contradicts God's word is not an opportunity from God.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Once again this morning when I stepped outside in the dark before the dawn, the thin crescent moon was still brilliant in the eastern sky and the stars were brighter, which meant another nearly clear sky. God is good!
I walked with my umbrella for shade, yesterday, because while there is a lot of shade on the boardwalk, there is also lots of sun in spots, so it was cooler with my created shade. I heard a hawk calling with a different little ending, and it was nearby, but I could not spy it in the trees. I did see an osprey take off with a very wide wingspread and head off toward the lake.
When I came to Mama gator the garland of leaves was dead and no longer on her head. She was in the same place in the water, so I spoke to her and walked on to the tower. When I came back, she was asleep with her eyes closed. That was the first time I had seen her eyes closed, so she must have had a rough night.
I walked on back to the first covered shelter and looked at the younger gator hanging out just below the rail. A toddler was looking at it and babbling something about it. Children are never too young to learn about nature. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How can I face challenging, sometimes intimidating, opportunities?
Philippians 4:13 I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need.
Our ability to face challenges is rooted in Christ, not in ourselves. With Christ's help, we can make the most of every opportunity.
Revelation 3:8 I know all the things you do, and I have opened a door for you that no one can shut. You have little strength, yet you obeyed my word and did not deny me.
We can trust that nothing will prevent us from fulfilling the opportunity God has for us.
How do I know if an opportunity is from the Lord?
Joshua 1: 7-9 Be strong and very courageous. Obey all the laws Moses gave you. Do not turn away from them, and you will be successful in everything you do. Study this Book of the Law continually. Meditate on it day and night so you may be sure to obey all that is written in it. Only then will you succeed. I command you--be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
Ephesians 5:15-20 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.
God's opportunities conform to his word. Anything that contradicts God's word is not an opportunity from God.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Patience
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, there was the crescent moon still in its place in the east, but the constellations had moved a bit to the south. The sky was beautiful in the darkness, with a plane twinkling across space. God is Awesome!
I didn't get to walk yesterday, because of a morning appointment and then the extreme heat in the afternoon. I just about passed out many years ago, when I walked across the Howard Frankland bridge after it first opened, so I am careful of the heat now. But, I drove through and noticed not many people were there. The ibises and the anhingas stay cool, so the weather doesn't bother them. Water is the key!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Where do I find the resources to be patient?
Galatians 5:22 When the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, and faithfulness.
The Holy Spirit produces patience in our lives. As we relax and trust in him, we release our need to control life's circumstances.
Colossians 1:11 We also pray that you will be strengthened with his glorious power so that you will have all the patience and endurance you need. May you be filled with joy.
Prayer infuses patience into our lives. When we admit a need in prayer, the Lord begins to meet that need.
Psalm 37:34 Don't be impatient for the Lord to act! Travel steadily along his path. He will honor you, giving you the land. You will see the wicked destroyed.
Patience comes from simply trusting God day by day. Even when we don't think we can last very long, Christ gives us the strength to "travel steadily." Our commitments to faith and obedience will keep us on God's path for longer than we thought possible.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I didn't get to walk yesterday, because of a morning appointment and then the extreme heat in the afternoon. I just about passed out many years ago, when I walked across the Howard Frankland bridge after it first opened, so I am careful of the heat now. But, I drove through and noticed not many people were there. The ibises and the anhingas stay cool, so the weather doesn't bother them. Water is the key!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Where do I find the resources to be patient?
Galatians 5:22 When the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, and faithfulness.
The Holy Spirit produces patience in our lives. As we relax and trust in him, we release our need to control life's circumstances.
Colossians 1:11 We also pray that you will be strengthened with his glorious power so that you will have all the patience and endurance you need. May you be filled with joy.
Prayer infuses patience into our lives. When we admit a need in prayer, the Lord begins to meet that need.
Psalm 37:34 Don't be impatient for the Lord to act! Travel steadily along his path. He will honor you, giving you the land. You will see the wicked destroyed.
Patience comes from simply trusting God day by day. Even when we don't think we can last very long, Christ gives us the strength to "travel steadily." Our commitments to faith and obedience will keep us on God's path for longer than we thought possible.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
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!
When I stepped outside much earlier this morning, the thin crescent moon was shining brightly in the east and stars were twinkling all over the sky, which means no rain but much heat today.
God is good!
I walked in the park yesterday, which is still very wet, and walked past a tractor and ditch digger, which had trenched a long area where the guys were aiming to string electric wires through pipe for the irrigation system. The dirt looked black and very rich... good for planting. Terry was working the tractor and Mark was working the rest.
I walked on out to see Mama gator and she was in almost the same place as Saturday, still with the garland across her face. A lot more water for her babies whenever they hatch, which I hope is soon.
When I came back from the tower I stopped at the first covered shelter to look at a large gator on the bank on the other side, catching some rays. He was huge! God is Awesome!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Where do we find confidence for every day?
Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light and my salvation--so why should I be afraid? The Lord protects me from danger--so why should I tremble?
Psalm 121:8 The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.
John 16:33 I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.
Many of the greatest athletes say that their real contest is a mental, not a physical one. It's the same way in our spiritual life. Our confidence comes not from looking around at our physical circumstances, but from looking to God.
Is there anything I can do to cultivate greater confidence?
Psalm 112:5-8 All goes well for those who are generous, who lend freely and conduct their business fairly. Such people will not be overcome by evil circumstances. Those who are righteous will be long remembered. they do not fear bad news, they confidently trust the Lord to care for them. They are confident and fearless and can face their foes triumphantly.
Following God's principles gives us the confidence of a clear conscience.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love.
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
When I stepped outside much earlier this morning, the thin crescent moon was shining brightly in the east and stars were twinkling all over the sky, which means no rain but much heat today.
God is good!
I walked in the park yesterday, which is still very wet, and walked past a tractor and ditch digger, which had trenched a long area where the guys were aiming to string electric wires through pipe for the irrigation system. The dirt looked black and very rich... good for planting. Terry was working the tractor and Mark was working the rest.
I walked on out to see Mama gator and she was in almost the same place as Saturday, still with the garland across her face. A lot more water for her babies whenever they hatch, which I hope is soon.
When I came back from the tower I stopped at the first covered shelter to look at a large gator on the bank on the other side, catching some rays. He was huge! God is Awesome!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Where do we find confidence for every day?
Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light and my salvation--so why should I be afraid? The Lord protects me from danger--so why should I tremble?
Psalm 121:8 The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.
John 16:33 I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.
Many of the greatest athletes say that their real contest is a mental, not a physical one. It's the same way in our spiritual life. Our confidence comes not from looking around at our physical circumstances, but from looking to God.
Is there anything I can do to cultivate greater confidence?
Psalm 112:5-8 All goes well for those who are generous, who lend freely and conduct their business fairly. Such people will not be overcome by evil circumstances. Those who are righteous will be long remembered. they do not fear bad news, they confidently trust the Lord to care for them. They are confident and fearless and can face their foes triumphantly.
Following God's principles gives us the confidence of a clear conscience.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love.
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, August 25, 2008
Righteous Fruit
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 in the darkness this morning, I was surprised to see the quarter moon hanging in the east, brightly shining, with what looked like the little dipper to the right of it. (I don't know my constellations too well). But the surprise was, no clouds! The sky is clear and blue this morning. Yay!
I walked Saturday with my umbrella for shade and for protection from the drippy trees. Much water is now everywhere in the Park and Mama gator was at the base of the nest with a garland of leaves across her nose. She reminded me of the Olympic wreath. :o) Still no sign of the babies hatching after the excitement of last week.
After church yesterday, we drove through the park, and saw two police cars and a couple civilian cars on the weir, along with a Channel 8 truck. I was pretty curious, so watched the news and it seems a gator was found wandering around the street not far away, so the deputies brought him to Sawgrass to release him into the water. They had him taped and tied up, of course. but, at least, they didn't dispose of him. God is good!
From Quiet Moments with God:
The role of quiet places played a very important role in the Bible, especially in the area of faith. Christ was alone during much of his life on earth. He would often retreat from the multitudes for quiet reflection. Moses went alone to the mountain to speak with God. While there, he received the Ten Commandments, one of the cornerstones of our faith. Daniel risked death three times a day, when he would cease from his labors and pray.
The Holy Spirit often speaks to us when we are alone. Quiet places produce peace and contentment. Noise breeds confusion. Order is often regained in silence.
Restaurants and other public places have become so congested with noise that it makes some of these places uncomfortable to sit in..
Yet we may yearn for times when we can think, be quiet, and listen to God. Finding time-actually, making time -for the still times is often a daunting challenge.
If righteousness is sown in peace, then the quiet times when we just sit, listen, and wait for the Lord to speak must produce what is essential for spiritual growth. Seeking quiet time for reflection helps us commune with God. As a result, His righteousness wears off on us, and we begin to pick up some of His characteristics.
The Lord has time to spend with us and is ready to grow His Spirit within us. It is up to us to make the appointment.
The seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace
James 3:18 NASB
We all need a quiet hideaway
where the mind can rest
and the soul can heal.
Cherie Rayburn
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
When I stepped outside in the darkness this morning, I was surprised to see the quarter moon hanging in the east, brightly shining, with what looked like the little dipper to the right of it. (I don't know my constellations too well). But the surprise was, no clouds! The sky is clear and blue this morning. Yay!
I walked Saturday with my umbrella for shade and for protection from the drippy trees. Much water is now everywhere in the Park and Mama gator was at the base of the nest with a garland of leaves across her nose. She reminded me of the Olympic wreath. :o) Still no sign of the babies hatching after the excitement of last week.
After church yesterday, we drove through the park, and saw two police cars and a couple civilian cars on the weir, along with a Channel 8 truck. I was pretty curious, so watched the news and it seems a gator was found wandering around the street not far away, so the deputies brought him to Sawgrass to release him into the water. They had him taped and tied up, of course. but, at least, they didn't dispose of him. God is good!
From Quiet Moments with God:
The role of quiet places played a very important role in the Bible, especially in the area of faith. Christ was alone during much of his life on earth. He would often retreat from the multitudes for quiet reflection. Moses went alone to the mountain to speak with God. While there, he received the Ten Commandments, one of the cornerstones of our faith. Daniel risked death three times a day, when he would cease from his labors and pray.
The Holy Spirit often speaks to us when we are alone. Quiet places produce peace and contentment. Noise breeds confusion. Order is often regained in silence.
Restaurants and other public places have become so congested with noise that it makes some of these places uncomfortable to sit in..
Yet we may yearn for times when we can think, be quiet, and listen to God. Finding time-actually, making time -for the still times is often a daunting challenge.
If righteousness is sown in peace, then the quiet times when we just sit, listen, and wait for the Lord to speak must produce what is essential for spiritual growth. Seeking quiet time for reflection helps us commune with God. As a result, His righteousness wears off on us, and we begin to pick up some of His characteristics.
The Lord has time to spend with us and is ready to grow His Spirit within us. It is up to us to make the appointment.
The seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace
James 3:18 NASB
We all need a quiet hideaway
where the mind can rest
and the soul can heal.
Cherie Rayburn
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, August 22, 2008
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! It is windy and cloudy today from Fay. Will that storm never leave Florida? Only God knows, and He is good!
Yesterday I had time to go to the Mall with my newly coiffed hair, and really enjoyed myself. Then I came back home and thanked Brian for the break, and decided to go to Sawgrass to check up on the gators. Well, it was hot and windy, but I walked with an umbrella to block the sun, and there was Mama gator, back at the bottom of the nest, and no babies.
I am sure she must have heard something, but the hatching time must be close or she would not have gone up on top. So, stay tuned!
On my way home, I saw beauty in the ditch alongside the road. Some roseate spoonbills were pecking alongside woodstorks and ibis. If we just take time to look, we can see God's handiwork in unexpected places!
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 created all heaven's lights. Unlike them, he never changes or casts shifting shadows.
Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.
Both our security and our hope are rooted in God's unchanging character. People will make promises one day but 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.
Are there any unchanging principles that can help me stay anchored?
Isaiah 40:8 The grass withers, and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever.
Mark 13:31 Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will remain forever.
God's word gives us the truth that never changes. We find strength and courage when we listen--not to the voices of public opinion-but to God.
Are there some changes that are too overwhelming for our faith?
Psalm 46:1,2 God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear, even if earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea.
Faith is the answer to fear. No amount of change in our life will affect God's care for us.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday I had time to go to the Mall with my newly coiffed hair, and really enjoyed myself. Then I came back home and thanked Brian for the break, and decided to go to Sawgrass to check up on the gators. Well, it was hot and windy, but I walked with an umbrella to block the sun, and there was Mama gator, back at the bottom of the nest, and no babies.
I am sure she must have heard something, but the hatching time must be close or she would not have gone up on top. So, stay tuned!
On my way home, I saw beauty in the ditch alongside the road. Some roseate spoonbills were pecking alongside woodstorks and ibis. If we just take time to look, we can see God's handiwork in unexpected places!
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 created all heaven's lights. Unlike them, he never changes or casts shifting shadows.
Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.
Both our security and our hope are rooted in God's unchanging character. People will make promises one day but 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.
Are there any unchanging principles that can help me stay anchored?
Isaiah 40:8 The grass withers, and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever.
Mark 13:31 Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will remain forever.
God's word gives us the truth that never changes. We find strength and courage when we listen--not to the voices of public opinion-but to God.
Are there some changes that are too overwhelming for our faith?
Psalm 46:1,2 God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear, even if earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea.
Faith is the answer to fear. No amount of change in our life will affect God's care for us.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
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