Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the cloudy day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! What a rain we had Saturday night and Sunday! I was awakened at midnight by the sound of the pouring rain and when I awoke Sunday morning it was still raining, but the rain stopped for us to go to church and didn't start again until we were home! God is good!
God gives us beauty everywhere, even in unlikely places. As I was driving home Saturday along a street with ditches on each side, there in the ditch were two roseate spoonbills, just glorious with their very pink feathers! I also saw one at our lake just a block or so away.
When we drove through the soggy park, I noticed how full the canal is, and saw a great blue heron smacking a fish on the ground, so he could swallow it! Very cool!
Living by the Spirit's Power; NLT
...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 do do. ...Then you will sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, making music to the Lord in our hearts. And you will always give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ....
Work hard , but not just to please your masters when they are watching. As slaves of Christ, do the will of God with all your heart. Work with enthusiasm, as though your were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free....
A final word: Be strong with the Lord's mighty power. Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil. For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms.
Use every piece of God's armor to resist the enemy in the time of evil, so that after the battle you will still be standing firm.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, July 14, 2008
Friday, July 11, 2008
Joggin' thru James
Good morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the very warm day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it!
When I stepped outside this morning, the heat hit me in the face, but a mockingbird was going through his songs very loudly and the sound was music to my ears!
Yesterday, I was brave enough to take a walk before it got too warm and spied the young mama gator under the covered shelter, but just as soon as I saw her, she sank and there were only bubbles where she had been.
Then I walked on to the gator nest and spoke to Mama gator who was almost covered with water, except for nostrils and eyes. They know how to keep cool! Her head is so big, she must be about 10 feet long.
I stopped and looked into the spot that looks like primitive Florida and two blackbirds were silently flitting about in the bushes. They weren't catbirds and didn't look like the usual noisy blackbirds, but I was happy that I saw them. I walked on to the tower and felt the breeze on my, by now, very warm, wet, brow. It fell good! God is Awesome!
from the Promise Bible NLT:
James 1:2 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.
Ephesians 3:20 Now glory be to God! By his mighty power at work within us, he is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever 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
When I stepped outside this morning, the heat hit me in the face, but a mockingbird was going through his songs very loudly and the sound was music to my ears!
Yesterday, I was brave enough to take a walk before it got too warm and spied the young mama gator under the covered shelter, but just as soon as I saw her, she sank and there were only bubbles where she had been.
Then I walked on to the gator nest and spoke to Mama gator who was almost covered with water, except for nostrils and eyes. They know how to keep cool! Her head is so big, she must be about 10 feet long.
I stopped and looked into the spot that looks like primitive Florida and two blackbirds were silently flitting about in the bushes. They weren't catbirds and didn't look like the usual noisy blackbirds, but I was happy that I saw them. I walked on to the tower and felt the breeze on my, by now, very warm, wet, brow. It fell good! God is Awesome!
from the Promise Bible NLT:
James 1:2 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.
Ephesians 3:20 Now glory be to God! By his mighty power at work within us, he is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever 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, July 10, 2008
God'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! When I stepped outside this morning, no stars were visible because of the haze in the sky, but birds were singing...they never seem to be unhappy!
As I walked in the side yard, a tiny, baby frog, no larger than my thumbnail hopped out of my way. I thought of the TV series some years ago, "All Creatures Great and Small"... from the tiniest frog to the greatest alligator, the Lord God loves them all!
After another trip out to the VA, I didn't have time to walk again yesterday, but drove through the Park and saw a lovely great white heron reflected in the mirror-like waters of the canal! There is beauty all around if we just notice!
How can God's power help me?
Psalm 60:12 With God's help we will do mighty things, for he will trample down our foes.
We should not look at the size of the problem but at the size of our God. When there are great things to be done, we have a great God who will do them through us.
Isaiah 40:29 He gives power to those who are tired and worn out; he offers strength to the weak.
2 Corinthians 12:9 Each time he said, "My gracious favor is all you need. My power works best in your weakness." So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may work through me.
God's power does not depend on human strength and power. In fact, our resources can get in the way if we rely on them instead of on the Lord. God's power flows through our weaknesses like electric current through a wire. The wire is simply a conductor, with no power in itself. But without the wire, the current doesn't flow. God is looking for people who are wired for his service.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
As I walked in the side yard, a tiny, baby frog, no larger than my thumbnail hopped out of my way. I thought of the TV series some years ago, "All Creatures Great and Small"... from the tiniest frog to the greatest alligator, the Lord God loves them all!
After another trip out to the VA, I didn't have time to walk again yesterday, but drove through the Park and saw a lovely great white heron reflected in the mirror-like waters of the canal! There is beauty all around if we just notice!
How can God's power help me?
Psalm 60:12 With God's help we will do mighty things, for he will trample down our foes.
We should not look at the size of the problem but at the size of our God. When there are great things to be done, we have a great God who will do them through us.
Isaiah 40:29 He gives power to those who are tired and worn out; he offers strength to the weak.
2 Corinthians 12:9 Each time he said, "My gracious favor is all you need. My power works best in your weakness." So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may work through me.
God's power does not depend on human strength and power. In fact, our resources can get in the way if we rely on them instead of on the Lord. God's power flows through our weaknesses like electric current through a wire. The wire is simply a conductor, with no power in itself. But without the wire, the current doesn't flow. God is looking for people who are wired for his service.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
God's Power
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, no stars were in sight and not even an airplane, but I could hear a mockingbird loud and clear greeting the dawn with a happy song! God is good!
Yesterday, I did my walking at Walmart and helped their stocks rise. It was definitely not the same as the scenic park, although there were some noises from children, and some "different" sights and sounds. I prefer the Park.
We drove into the park later, and saw the bedraggled peacock with his feather bones dragging on the ground, and a young gator swimming lazily up the canal. We also saw Terry in his office, so I went in to chat with him, since he is leaving on vacation Thursday and was hoping to see me. The park won't be the same once he retires. Sigh.
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What is God's power like?
Psalm 20:4-7 May he grant your heart's desire and fulfill all your plans. May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory, flying banners to honor our God. May the Lord answer all your prayers. Now I know that the Lord saves his anointed king. He will answer him from his holy heaven and rescue him by his great power. Some nations boast of their armies and weapons, but we boast in the Lord our God.
God's power is greater than that of the greatest kings who ever ruled or the mightiest armies that ever marched. That power is ours as we trust him, obey him, and honor his name.
Psalm 44:4-7 You are my King and my God. You command victories for your people. Only by your power can we push back our enemies, only in your name can we trample our foes. I do not trust my bow; I do not count on my sword to save me. It is you who gives us victory over our enemies; it is you who humbles those who hate us.
God's power is greater than any of the skills or resources we have at our disposal. While we may use the means that God has provided to us, we know that victory comes from God alone.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday, I did my walking at Walmart and helped their stocks rise. It was definitely not the same as the scenic park, although there were some noises from children, and some "different" sights and sounds. I prefer the Park.
We drove into the park later, and saw the bedraggled peacock with his feather bones dragging on the ground, and a young gator swimming lazily up the canal. We also saw Terry in his office, so I went in to chat with him, since he is leaving on vacation Thursday and was hoping to see me. The park won't be the same once he retires. Sigh.
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What is God's power like?
Psalm 20:4-7 May he grant your heart's desire and fulfill all your plans. May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory, flying banners to honor our God. May the Lord answer all your prayers. Now I know that the Lord saves his anointed king. He will answer him from his holy heaven and rescue him by his great power. Some nations boast of their armies and weapons, but we boast in the Lord our God.
God's power is greater than that of the greatest kings who ever ruled or the mightiest armies that ever marched. That power is ours as we trust him, obey him, and honor his name.
Psalm 44:4-7 You are my King and my God. You command victories for your people. Only by your power can we push back our enemies, only in your name can we trample our foes. I do not trust my bow; I do not count on my sword to save me. It is you who gives us victory over our enemies; it is you who humbles those who hate us.
God's power is greater than any of the skills or resources we have at our disposal. While we may use the means that God has provided to us, we know that victory comes from God alone.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Planning
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 was cooler and everything was wet from last night's rain. No stars were visible, but once again I saw a plane so high, I could only see the lights blinking. Or was it a UFO?
Yesterday, my knee felt good enough for me to walk out to see Mama gator, who was keeping a vigil by her nest, to keep it from any predators. The water is so high, she was totally submerged except for her head. She looked at me and I looked at her and spoke, but she didn't reply. :o)
Then, as I walked back, I stopped at the bridge to cool off, and a young gator came swimming under the bridge, and slowly made its way up the canal, toward the lake, leaving a small wake behind. God is Awesome!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How am I supposed to plan my life?
Proverbs 2:1-11 My child, listen to me and treasure my instructions. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight and understanding. Search for them as you would for lost money or hidden treasure. Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God. For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He grants a treasure of good sense to the godly. He is their shield, protecting those who walk with integrity. He guards the paths of justice and protects those who are faithful to him. Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair: and you will know how to find the right course of action every time. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy. Wise planning will watch over you. Understanding will keep you safe.
A plan is only as good as the information upon which it's based. Our human intellect is limited and inadequate. Apart from the Lord, our plans are liable to fail. the Lord promises wisdom to those who rely on his word and depend on his Spirit.
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.
As we seek God , he will guide us in making our plans.
What if my plans fall short of God's plans for me?
You can make many plans, but the Lord's purpose will prevail.
Our plans cannot mess up God's plans!
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday, my knee felt good enough for me to walk out to see Mama gator, who was keeping a vigil by her nest, to keep it from any predators. The water is so high, she was totally submerged except for her head. She looked at me and I looked at her and spoke, but she didn't reply. :o)
Then, as I walked back, I stopped at the bridge to cool off, and a young gator came swimming under the bridge, and slowly made its way up the canal, toward the lake, leaving a small wake behind. God is Awesome!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How am I supposed to plan my life?
Proverbs 2:1-11 My child, listen to me and treasure my instructions. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight and understanding. Search for them as you would for lost money or hidden treasure. Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God. For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He grants a treasure of good sense to the godly. He is their shield, protecting those who walk with integrity. He guards the paths of justice and protects those who are faithful to him. Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair: and you will know how to find the right course of action every time. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy. Wise planning will watch over you. Understanding will keep you safe.
A plan is only as good as the information upon which it's based. Our human intellect is limited and inadequate. Apart from the Lord, our plans are liable to fail. the Lord promises wisdom to those who rely on his word and depend on his Spirit.
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.
As we seek God , he will guide us in making our plans.
What if my plans fall short of God's plans for me?
You can make many plans, but the Lord's purpose will prevail.
Our plans cannot mess up God's plans!
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, July 7, 2008
Hope
After the storm yesterday afternoon, the sky is clear and everything is washed and fresh. God is good!
We drove through the park yesterday, and saw a bedraggled peacock with the tail feather bones dragging on the ground... not so proud when molting!
Not many people were out, because of the threatening skies and heat, but the ibis were busy and the squirrels were running back and forth as usual. It is a peaceful place to be.
From the Promise Bible, NLT:
How can I have hope when times are tough?
Hebrews 10:23 Without wavering, let us hold tightly to the hope we say we have, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.
Our hope is rooted in God's integrity and faithfulness. When everything else falls apart we can cling to the fact that God keeps his word.
John 14:1 Don't be troubled. You trust God, now trust in me.
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.
Our troubles do not surprise the Lord and should not surprise us. Trouble is rampant in this fallen world. Our focus should be on Jesus who has overcome this world and all its troubles.
You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, whose thoughts are fixed on you! Trust in the Lord always, for the Lord God is the eternal Rock.
Jeremiah 29:11 "I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope."
Do not doubt God's good intentions for us. The wonder of creation, the evidence of his constant care, and the priceless gift of Jesus Christ for our salvation give us confidence that he will establish all who trust in him.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, July 4, 2008
Happy 4th of July!
America the beautiful from sea to shining sea! The sunrise was gorgeous this morning and it looks like a good day for hot dogs, and picnics and good food! Enjoy!
2nd Chronicles 7:14
Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and heal their land.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
2nd Chronicles 7:14
Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and heal their 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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