From Toby Mac
There will come a time when every step of the journey God is taking you on will make sense. Until then, keep trusting Him.
Thursday, November 30, 2017
Live to learn
This was one of those Goalcast videos. The speaker is comedian Tim Minchin.
These 9 Life Lessons Will Make You Laugh and Learn
One. You don't have to have a dream. Americans on talent shows always talk about their dreams. Fine, if you have something you've always wanted to do, dreamed of it in your heart, go for it. After all, it's something to do with your time, chasing a dream. If it's a big enough one, it'll take you most of your life to achieve, so by the time you get to it and are staring into the abyss of the meaningless of your achievement, you'll be almost dead so it won't matter.
I never really had one of those dreams. I advocate passionate dedication to the pursuit of short-term goals. Be micro-ambitious. Put your head down and work with pride on whatever is in front of you. You never know where you might end up. Just be aware the next worthy pursuit will probably appear in your periphery, which is why you should be careful of long-term dreams. If you focus too far in front of you, you won't see the shiny thing out of the corner of your eye.
Two. Don't seek happiness. Happiness is like an orgasm. If you think about it too much, it goes away. Keep busy and aim to make someone else happy and you might find you get some as a side effect. We don't evolve to be constantly content. Contented homo erectus got eaten before passing on their genes.
Three. Remember, it's all luck. You are lucky to be here. You are incalculably lucky to be born. Understanding that you truly can't take credit for your successes, nor truly blame others for their failures, will humble you and make you more compassionate. Empathy is intuitive, but is also something you can work on intellectually.
Four. Exercise. I'm sorry, you pasty, pale, smoking philosophy grads, arching your eyebrows into a Cartesian curve as you watch the human movement mob winding their way through the miniature traffic cones of their existence. You are wrong and they are right. Well, you're half right. You think, therefore you are, but also you jog, therefore you sleep, therefore you're not overwhelmed bu existential angst. You can't be Kant, and you don't want to be.
Play a sport, do yoga, pump iron, run, whatever, but take care of your body. You're going to need it. Most of you mob are going to live to nearly 100, and even the poorest of you will achieve a level of wealth that most humans throughout history could not have dreamed of. This long, luxurious life ahead of you is going to make you depressed.
Five. Be hard on your opinions...We must think critically and not just about the ideas of others. Be hard on your beliefs. Take them out onto the veranda and hit them with a cricket bat.
Be intellectually rigorous. Identify your biases, your prejudices, your privileges. Most of society's arguments are kept alive by a failure to acknowledge nuance. We tend to generate false dichotomies and then try to argue one point using two entirely different sets of assumptions, like two tennis players trying to win a match by hitting beautifully executed shots from either end of separate tennis courts.
Six. Be a teacher. Please, please, please be a teacher. Teachers are the most admirable and important people in the world. You don't have to do it forever, but if you're in doubt about what to do, be an amazing teacher. Even if you're not a teacher, be a teacher. Share your ideas. Don't take for granted your education. Rejoice in what you learn and spray it.
Seven. Define yourself by what you love...I see it all the time online, people whose idea of being part of a subculture is to hate Coldplay or football or feminists or the Liberal Party.
We have a tendency to define ourselves in opposition to stuff. As a comedian, I make my living out of it. But try also to express your passion for things you love. Be demonstrative and generous in your praise of those you admire. Send thank you cards and standing ovations. Be pro-stuff, not just anti-stuff.
Eight. Respect people with less power than you. I have in the past made important decisions about people I work with, agents and producers, big decisions based largely on how they treat the wait staff in the restaurants we're having the meeting in. I don't care if you're the most powerful cat in the room. I will judge you on how you treat the least powerful. So there.
Nine, finally, don't rush. You don't need to already know what you're gonna do with the rest of your life. Don't panic. You will soon be dead. Life will sometimes seem long and tough and, God, it's tiring. You will sometimes be happy and sometimes sad, and then you'll be old and then you'll be dead. There is only one sensible thing to do with this empty existence, and that is fill it.
Life is best filled by learning as much as you can about as much as you can, taking pride in whatever you're doing, having compassion, sharing ideas, running, being enthusiastic, and then there's love and travel and wine and sex and art and kids and giving and mountain-climbing. But you know all that stuff already.
It's an incredibly exciting thing, this one meaningless life of yours. Good luck and thank you for indulging me.
These 9 Life Lessons Will Make You Laugh and Learn
One. You don't have to have a dream. Americans on talent shows always talk about their dreams. Fine, if you have something you've always wanted to do, dreamed of it in your heart, go for it. After all, it's something to do with your time, chasing a dream. If it's a big enough one, it'll take you most of your life to achieve, so by the time you get to it and are staring into the abyss of the meaningless of your achievement, you'll be almost dead so it won't matter.
I never really had one of those dreams. I advocate passionate dedication to the pursuit of short-term goals. Be micro-ambitious. Put your head down and work with pride on whatever is in front of you. You never know where you might end up. Just be aware the next worthy pursuit will probably appear in your periphery, which is why you should be careful of long-term dreams. If you focus too far in front of you, you won't see the shiny thing out of the corner of your eye.
Two. Don't seek happiness. Happiness is like an orgasm. If you think about it too much, it goes away. Keep busy and aim to make someone else happy and you might find you get some as a side effect. We don't evolve to be constantly content. Contented homo erectus got eaten before passing on their genes.
Three. Remember, it's all luck. You are lucky to be here. You are incalculably lucky to be born. Understanding that you truly can't take credit for your successes, nor truly blame others for their failures, will humble you and make you more compassionate. Empathy is intuitive, but is also something you can work on intellectually.
Four. Exercise. I'm sorry, you pasty, pale, smoking philosophy grads, arching your eyebrows into a Cartesian curve as you watch the human movement mob winding their way through the miniature traffic cones of their existence. You are wrong and they are right. Well, you're half right. You think, therefore you are, but also you jog, therefore you sleep, therefore you're not overwhelmed bu existential angst. You can't be Kant, and you don't want to be.
Play a sport, do yoga, pump iron, run, whatever, but take care of your body. You're going to need it. Most of you mob are going to live to nearly 100, and even the poorest of you will achieve a level of wealth that most humans throughout history could not have dreamed of. This long, luxurious life ahead of you is going to make you depressed.
Five. Be hard on your opinions...We must think critically and not just about the ideas of others. Be hard on your beliefs. Take them out onto the veranda and hit them with a cricket bat.
Be intellectually rigorous. Identify your biases, your prejudices, your privileges. Most of society's arguments are kept alive by a failure to acknowledge nuance. We tend to generate false dichotomies and then try to argue one point using two entirely different sets of assumptions, like two tennis players trying to win a match by hitting beautifully executed shots from either end of separate tennis courts.
Six. Be a teacher. Please, please, please be a teacher. Teachers are the most admirable and important people in the world. You don't have to do it forever, but if you're in doubt about what to do, be an amazing teacher. Even if you're not a teacher, be a teacher. Share your ideas. Don't take for granted your education. Rejoice in what you learn and spray it.
Seven. Define yourself by what you love...I see it all the time online, people whose idea of being part of a subculture is to hate Coldplay or football or feminists or the Liberal Party.
We have a tendency to define ourselves in opposition to stuff. As a comedian, I make my living out of it. But try also to express your passion for things you love. Be demonstrative and generous in your praise of those you admire. Send thank you cards and standing ovations. Be pro-stuff, not just anti-stuff.
Eight. Respect people with less power than you. I have in the past made important decisions about people I work with, agents and producers, big decisions based largely on how they treat the wait staff in the restaurants we're having the meeting in. I don't care if you're the most powerful cat in the room. I will judge you on how you treat the least powerful. So there.
Nine, finally, don't rush. You don't need to already know what you're gonna do with the rest of your life. Don't panic. You will soon be dead. Life will sometimes seem long and tough and, God, it's tiring. You will sometimes be happy and sometimes sad, and then you'll be old and then you'll be dead. There is only one sensible thing to do with this empty existence, and that is fill it.
Life is best filled by learning as much as you can about as much as you can, taking pride in whatever you're doing, having compassion, sharing ideas, running, being enthusiastic, and then there's love and travel and wine and sex and art and kids and giving and mountain-climbing. But you know all that stuff already.
It's an incredibly exciting thing, this one meaningless life of yours. Good luck and thank you for indulging me.
Just in case
From Toby Mac. I have a hard time believing this though...
Just in case no one told you today, you are good enough.
Just in case no one told you today, you are good enough.
Give thanks
Bible Gateway's Verse of the Day from the other day
Psalm 136:1, 26
Thanksgiving to God for His Enduring Mercy
Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!
For His mercy endures forever.
Oh, give thanks to the God of heaven!
For His mercy endures forever
Psalm 136:1, 26
Thanksgiving to God for His Enduring Mercy
Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!
For His mercy endures forever.
Oh, give thanks to the God of heaven!
For His mercy endures forever
The day of the Lord
Bible Gateway's Verse of the Day
2 Peter 3:10-11
The Day of the Lord
But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up. Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness.
2 Peter 3:10-11
The Day of the Lord
But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up. Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness.
Break up
8 Things to Avoid When You Break Up With Someone (Lifestyle, Fashionbeans.com)-Excerpts
No one should be in a relationship if they're not feeling it, and if you've decided to end the relationship. you're 100% justified in taking action, regardless of the circumstances.
Period. Ultimately, you need to look out for your own happiness, and as cold as it may sound, your ex-partner's feelings really aren't a factor in the decision.
Mutual friendships-non-factor
Not your job to soften the blow
If you actually made the decision to break up and followed through with it, that's a great sign; you value yourself enough to leave a bad situation.
You need to enjoy life as a single person for a little while, or at least prove to yourself that you're confident enough to put real effort into that next relationship.
No one should be in a relationship if they're not feeling it, and if you've decided to end the relationship. you're 100% justified in taking action, regardless of the circumstances.
Period. Ultimately, you need to look out for your own happiness, and as cold as it may sound, your ex-partner's feelings really aren't a factor in the decision.
Mutual friendships-non-factor
Not your job to soften the blow
If you actually made the decision to break up and followed through with it, that's a great sign; you value yourself enough to leave a bad situation.
You need to enjoy life as a single person for a little while, or at least prove to yourself that you're confident enough to put real effort into that next relationship.
I hope
I hope you find someone who doesn't make you sad at night and someone who reminds you how much they love you every day and who laughs at your jokes and wants to listen to your music and who genuinely wants to be with you and doesn't make you second guess their love for you. I really hope you find that. Because you deserve that.
Wants you
If a man wants you, nothing can keep him away.
And if he doesn't want you, nothing can make him stay.
Remember that.
And if he doesn't want you, nothing can make him stay.
Remember that.
A storm
From Sarah C.'s page
She used to believe that love
should feel like
a storm,
passionate,
raw and raging.
But so many storms
have come
and left her
more broken than before
Now, she looks for a love
that feels like
a night
after the storm
is over.
-Cynthia Go, The calm after the storm
She used to believe that love
should feel like
a storm,
passionate,
raw and raging.
But so many storms
have come
and left her
more broken than before
Now, she looks for a love
that feels like
a night
after the storm
is over.
-Cynthia Go, The calm after the storm
Butterflies
Lydia K. posted this.
Butterflies can't see their wings. They can't see how truly beautiful they are, but everyone else can. People are like that as well.
Butterflies can't see their wings. They can't see how truly beautiful they are, but everyone else can. People are like that as well.
Sneaky
Last night, I sent a song to K by the name of "Pieces" by a group named Red. It was definitely a Christian-themed song, so I googled to see if the band was Christian. Everything I read said that the people in the band were Christian, but the band wasn't a Christian band per se.
In one of the articles that came up, it said that the drummer was replaced by Hayden Lamb. :)
In one of the articles that came up, it said that the drummer was replaced by Hayden Lamb. :)
The real Jesus
From A.W. Tozer (love him!)
Wherever I am, whatever I am doing, I hope and pray to God that I will have the courage to stand up for the real Jesus of the New Testament, regardless of whom I offend.
Wherever I am, whatever I am doing, I hope and pray to God that I will have the courage to stand up for the real Jesus of the New Testament, regardless of whom I offend.
The Holy Spirit
Quote from A.W. Tozer.
The Holy Spirit never enters a man and then lets him live like the world. You can be sure of that.
The Holy Spirit never enters a man and then lets him live like the world. You can be sure of that.
Wednesday, November 29, 2017
It might be you
A line of this song tied into The Carpenters song I just entered, so I wanted to make sure I had these song lyrics recorded too.
It Might Be You
by Stephen Bishop
Time...I've been passing time watching trains go by
All of my life...
Lying on the sand, watching seabirds fly
Wishing there would be
Someone waiting home for me...
Something's telling me it might be you
It's telling me it might be you...
All of my life...
Looking back as lovers go walking past...
All of my life
Wondering how they met and what makes it last
If I found the place
Would I recognize the face?
Something's telling me it might be you
Yeah, it's telling me it might be you
So many quiet walks to take
So many dreams to wake
And we've so much love to make
I think we're gonna need some time
Maybe all we need is time...
And it's telling me it might be you
All of my life...
I've been saving love songs and lullabies
And there's so much more
No one's ever heard before...
Something's telling me it might be you
Yeah, it's telling me it must be you
And I'm feeling it'll just be you
All of my life...
It's you..
It's you...
I've been waiting for all of my life...
Maybe it's you...
Maybe it's you...
I've been waiting for all of my life...
Maybe it's you...
Maybe it's you...
I've been waiting for all of my life...
It's going to take some time this time
Heard this song twice today-had two Pandora stations going at the same time.
It's Going To Take Some Time This Time
by The Carpenters
It's going to take some time this time
To get myself in shape
I really feel out-of line this time
I really missed the gate
The birds are on the telephone line (next time)
Are cryin' out to me (next time)
And I won't be so blind next time
And I'll find some harmony
But it's gong to take some time this time
And I can't make demands
But like the young trees in the wintertime
I'll learn how to bend
After all the tears we've spent
How could we make amends
So it's one more round for experience
And I'm on the road again
And it's going to take some time this time
It's going to take some time this time
No matter what I've planned
But like the young trees in the wintertime
I'll learn how to bend
After all the tears we've spent
How could we make amends
So it's one more round for experience
And I'm on the road again
And it's going to take some time this time
Avid reader
I'm debating over whether to order this book or not. It's called Emotional Abuse: Silent Killer of Marriage by Austin James, an admitted abuser. One of the reviews of the book on Amazon was amazing. It was written by someone named Avid Reader.
There was something about how counseling is not the answer to this problem-I will have to look that up.
When the church is pitying the abuser and putting all the pressure on the victim to try harder in the marriage, they have forgotten that "He who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the righteous are both alike an abomination to the Lord" (Proverbs 17:15).
...abuse is Biblical grounds for divorce
What she needed to do was obey the Bible's command to "Go from the presence of a foolish man when you perceive not in him the lips of knowledge" (Proverbs 14:7).
The abusive form of anger puts the abuser in the category of "foolish" according to Proverbs 14:17. "He that is soon angry, deals foolishly." And warns us that someone "with a quick temper, sins a lot" (Proverbs 29:22).
But instead of teaching the Bible, what you hear all the time preached from the pulpit is that divorce is sinful and reconciliation is your only option. Hang on a second-if reconciliation is your only option than why does Proverbs 22:24 say, "Do not even associate with a man given to angry outbursts."
While overnight repentance is possible, it takes time to change behavioral patterns.
What it said about counseling: He warns people that if they visit a counselor for help and that counselor insists on joint marriage counseling first---then walk away because you won't find the help you need there. He points out that even when he and his wife sought professional help "not once did the question of abuse come up during years of seeing both secular and Christian counselors." That's a real problem, especially in the church. However, just to be clear, Austin does recommend seeking professional help---but distinguishes between types of counseling that aren't helpful in dealing with abuse.
There was something about how counseling is not the answer to this problem-I will have to look that up.
When the church is pitying the abuser and putting all the pressure on the victim to try harder in the marriage, they have forgotten that "He who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the righteous are both alike an abomination to the Lord" (Proverbs 17:15).
...abuse is Biblical grounds for divorce
What she needed to do was obey the Bible's command to "Go from the presence of a foolish man when you perceive not in him the lips of knowledge" (Proverbs 14:7).
The abusive form of anger puts the abuser in the category of "foolish" according to Proverbs 14:17. "He that is soon angry, deals foolishly." And warns us that someone "with a quick temper, sins a lot" (Proverbs 29:22).
But instead of teaching the Bible, what you hear all the time preached from the pulpit is that divorce is sinful and reconciliation is your only option. Hang on a second-if reconciliation is your only option than why does Proverbs 22:24 say, "Do not even associate with a man given to angry outbursts."
While overnight repentance is possible, it takes time to change behavioral patterns.
What it said about counseling: He warns people that if they visit a counselor for help and that counselor insists on joint marriage counseling first---then walk away because you won't find the help you need there. He points out that even when he and his wife sought professional help "not once did the question of abuse come up during years of seeing both secular and Christian counselors." That's a real problem, especially in the church. However, just to be clear, Austin does recommend seeking professional help---but distinguishes between types of counseling that aren't helpful in dealing with abuse.
Tuesday, November 28, 2017
If only
Excerpts from a Max Lucado Daily Devotional.
John 3:6: "Human life comes from human parents, but spiritual life comes from one Spirit." Your parents have given you genes but God gives you more. God is willing to give you what your family didn't.
John 3:6: "Human life comes from human parents, but spiritual life comes from one Spirit." Your parents have given you genes but God gives you more. God is willing to give you what your family didn't.
Come to Me
From one of Max Lucado's Daily Devotionals.
Come To Me
How does a person get relief from shame, embarrassment, anger? In Matthew 11:28-29, Jesus said, "Come to Me, all of you who are tired and have heavy loads, and I will give you rest. Accept my teachings and learn from Me, because I am gentle and humble in spirit, and and you will find rest for your lives..."
I can see you shaking your head. I've tried that. I've read the Bible. I've sat on the pew-but I've never received relief. Could it be you went to religion and you didn't go to God? Could it be you went to a church but never saw Christ?
"Come to Me" the verse reads. Jesus is the solution for weariness of the soul. Go to Him. Admit you have soul secrets you've never dealt with. He already knows what they are. Go to Him! He's just waiting for you to ask Him for help!
Come To Me
How does a person get relief from shame, embarrassment, anger? In Matthew 11:28-29, Jesus said, "Come to Me, all of you who are tired and have heavy loads, and I will give you rest. Accept my teachings and learn from Me, because I am gentle and humble in spirit, and and you will find rest for your lives..."
I can see you shaking your head. I've tried that. I've read the Bible. I've sat on the pew-but I've never received relief. Could it be you went to religion and you didn't go to God? Could it be you went to a church but never saw Christ?
"Come to Me" the verse reads. Jesus is the solution for weariness of the soul. Go to Him. Admit you have soul secrets you've never dealt with. He already knows what they are. Go to Him! He's just waiting for you to ask Him for help!
You matter to God
Excerpts from a Daily Devotional by Max Lucado.
You Matter To God
What matters to you matters to God!...
...The Bible says you are an heir of God and a co-heir with Christ. You have a crown that will last forever. You were chosen before the creation of the world. But more than anything else is the simple fact-you are God's child. 1 John 4:4 says we are called children of God. And we really are His children. I love that we are really His children! And if something is important to you-it's important to God!
You Matter To God
What matters to you matters to God!...
...The Bible says you are an heir of God and a co-heir with Christ. You have a crown that will last forever. You were chosen before the creation of the world. But more than anything else is the simple fact-you are God's child. 1 John 4:4 says we are called children of God. And we really are His children. I love that we are really His children! And if something is important to you-it's important to God!
Birthday post
For Hope's bday post, here's what I said along with a super cute picture of her:
This girl. She makes me laugh every single day, inspires me, impresses me and keeps me in line. She is so many things I wish I could be, and I couldn't be more proud to be her mother. Happy 17th Birthday, Hopie!
K's comment: "'She is so many things I wish I could be'-she's simply mimicking her mother...."
This girl. She makes me laugh every single day, inspires me, impresses me and keeps me in line. She is so many things I wish I could be, and I couldn't be more proud to be her mother. Happy 17th Birthday, Hopie!
K's comment: "'She is so many things I wish I could be'-she's simply mimicking her mother...."
Greatest miracle
Quote by A.W. Tozer of Leonard Ravenhill
The greatest miracle that God can do today is to take an unholy man out of an unholy world and make him holy, then put him back into that unholy world and keep him holy in it.
The greatest miracle that God can do today is to take an unholy man out of an unholy world and make him holy, then put him back into that unholy world and keep him holy in it.
Monday, November 27, 2017
When Tomorrow Starts Without Me
I know I've recorded parts of this poem, but I've never come across such a long version of it.
When Tomorrow Starts Without Me
by David Romano
When tomorrow starts without me,
And I'm not there to see,
If the sun should rise and find your eyes
All filled with tears for me;
I wish so much your wouldn't cry
The way you did today,
While thinking of the many things,
We didn't get to say.
I know how much you love me,
As much as I love you,
And each time you think of me,
I know you'll miss me too;
But when tomorrow starts without me,
Please try to understand,
That an angel came and called my name,
And took me by the hand,
And said my place was ready,
In heaven far above
And that I'd have to leave behind
All those I dearly love.
But as I turned to walk away,
A tear fell from my eye
For all my life, I'd always thought
I didn't want to die.
I had so much to live for,
So much left yet to do,
It seemed almost impossible,
That I was leaving you.
I thought of all the yesterdays,
The good ones and the bad,
The thought of all the love we shared,
And all the fun we had.
If I could relive yesterday
Just even for a while,
I'd say good-bye and kiss you
And maybe see you smile.
But then I finally realized
That this could never be,
For emptiness and memories,
Would take the place of me.
And when I thought of worldly things
I might miss come tomorrow,
I thought of you, and when I did
My heart was filled with sorrow.
But when I walked through heaven's gates
I felt so much at home
When God looked down and smiled at me,
From His great golden throne,
He said,"This is eternity,
And all I've promised you.
Today your life on earth is past
But here it starts anew.
I promise no tomorrow,
But today will always last,
And since each day's the same way,
There's no longing for the past.
You have been so faithful,
So trusting and so true.
Though there were times
You did some things
You knew you shouldn't do.
But you have been forgiven
And now at last you're free.
So won't you come and take my hand
And share my life with me?"
So when tomorrow starts without me,
Don't think we're far apart,
For every time you think of me,
I'm right here, in your heart.
When Tomorrow Starts Without Me
by David Romano
When tomorrow starts without me,
And I'm not there to see,
If the sun should rise and find your eyes
All filled with tears for me;
I wish so much your wouldn't cry
The way you did today,
While thinking of the many things,
We didn't get to say.
I know how much you love me,
As much as I love you,
And each time you think of me,
I know you'll miss me too;
But when tomorrow starts without me,
Please try to understand,
That an angel came and called my name,
And took me by the hand,
And said my place was ready,
In heaven far above
And that I'd have to leave behind
All those I dearly love.
But as I turned to walk away,
A tear fell from my eye
For all my life, I'd always thought
I didn't want to die.
I had so much to live for,
So much left yet to do,
It seemed almost impossible,
That I was leaving you.
I thought of all the yesterdays,
The good ones and the bad,
The thought of all the love we shared,
And all the fun we had.
If I could relive yesterday
Just even for a while,
I'd say good-bye and kiss you
And maybe see you smile.
But then I finally realized
That this could never be,
For emptiness and memories,
Would take the place of me.
And when I thought of worldly things
I might miss come tomorrow,
I thought of you, and when I did
My heart was filled with sorrow.
But when I walked through heaven's gates
I felt so much at home
When God looked down and smiled at me,
From His great golden throne,
He said,"This is eternity,
And all I've promised you.
Today your life on earth is past
But here it starts anew.
I promise no tomorrow,
But today will always last,
And since each day's the same way,
There's no longing for the past.
You have been so faithful,
So trusting and so true.
Though there were times
You did some things
You knew you shouldn't do.
But you have been forgiven
And now at last you're free.
So won't you come and take my hand
And share my life with me?"
So when tomorrow starts without me,
Don't think we're far apart,
For every time you think of me,
I'm right here, in your heart.
Perhaps
From A.W. Tozer.
Perhaps it takes a purer faith to praise God for unrealized blessings than for those we once enjoyed or those we enjoy now.
Perhaps it takes a purer faith to praise God for unrealized blessings than for those we once enjoyed or those we enjoy now.
Wednesday, November 22, 2017
The Way
From another Verse of the Day by Bible Gateway
Psalm 1:1-2
The Way of the Righteous and the End of the Ungodly
Blessed is the man
Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,
Nor stands in the path of sinners,
Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;
But his delight is in the law of the Lord,
And in His law he meditates day and night.
Psalm 1:1-2
The Way of the Righteous and the End of the Ungodly
Blessed is the man
Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,
Nor stands in the path of sinners,
Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;
But his delight is in the law of the Lord,
And in His law he meditates day and night.
A Call
From Bible Gateway's Verse of the Day
Psalm 95:1-2
A Call to Worship and Obedience
O come, let us sing to the Lord!
Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation.
Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving;
Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms.
Psalm 95:1-2
A Call to Worship and Obedience
O come, let us sing to the Lord!
Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation.
Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving;
Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms.
Tuesday, November 21, 2017
What He says He will do
From one of Max Lucado's Daily Devotionals.
God will always be the same. No one else will. Companies follow pay raises with pink slips. Friends applaud you when you drive a classic and dismiss you when you drive a dud.
Not God. God is always the same. James 1:17 says, with Him "there is no variation or shadow due to change." Catch God in a bad mood? Won't happen. Fear exhausting His grace? A sardine will swallow the Atlantic first. Think He's given up on you? Wrong. Did He not make a promise to you? God is not a human being, and He will not lie. He is not a human, and He does not change His mind. What He says He will do. What He promises, He will make come true. His strength, truth, ways, and love never change. Hebrews 13:8 declares "He is the same yesterday and today and forever." What He says, He will do!
God will always be the same. No one else will. Companies follow pay raises with pink slips. Friends applaud you when you drive a classic and dismiss you when you drive a dud.
Not God. God is always the same. James 1:17 says, with Him "there is no variation or shadow due to change." Catch God in a bad mood? Won't happen. Fear exhausting His grace? A sardine will swallow the Atlantic first. Think He's given up on you? Wrong. Did He not make a promise to you? God is not a human being, and He will not lie. He is not a human, and He does not change His mind. What He says He will do. What He promises, He will make come true. His strength, truth, ways, and love never change. Hebrews 13:8 declares "He is the same yesterday and today and forever." What He says, He will do!
Jesus builds the bridge
Excerpts from Max Lucado Daily Devotional.
Remember the next time you find yourself amazed at your own failures. Or the next time acidic accusations burn holes in your soul. Remember. It's man who creates the distance. It's Jesus who builds the bridge.
Remember the next time you find yourself amazed at your own failures. Or the next time acidic accusations burn holes in your soul. Remember. It's man who creates the distance. It's Jesus who builds the bridge.
God's reward
From today's Daily Devotional by Max Lucado.
God's Reward
God rewards those who seek Him! Not those who seek doctrine or religion or systems or creeds. Many settle for these lesser passions, but the reward goes to those who settle for nothing less than Jesus Himself.
And what is the reward? What awaits those who seek Jesus? Nothing short of the heart of Jesus. Paul says in 2 Corinthians 3:18 that as the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like Him. Can you think of a greater gift than to be like Jesus? Christ felt no guilt; God wants to banish yours. Jesus had no bad habits; God wants to remove yours. Jesus had no fear of death; God wants you to be fearless.
Jesus had kindness for the diseased and mercy for the rebellious and courage for the challenged. God wants you to have the same. Isn't it just like Jesus!
God's Reward
God rewards those who seek Him! Not those who seek doctrine or religion or systems or creeds. Many settle for these lesser passions, but the reward goes to those who settle for nothing less than Jesus Himself.
And what is the reward? What awaits those who seek Jesus? Nothing short of the heart of Jesus. Paul says in 2 Corinthians 3:18 that as the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like Him. Can you think of a greater gift than to be like Jesus? Christ felt no guilt; God wants to banish yours. Jesus had no bad habits; God wants to remove yours. Jesus had no fear of death; God wants you to be fearless.
Jesus had kindness for the diseased and mercy for the rebellious and courage for the challenged. God wants you to have the same. Isn't it just like Jesus!
Monday, November 20, 2017
Walk alone
I've recorded this before, but it bears repeating. It's by A.W. Tozer.
There are times when to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit in our life we must walk alone, which goes contrary to our natural inclination. Sometimes we must walk away from the crowd, even the Christian crowd.
There are times when to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit in our life we must walk alone, which goes contrary to our natural inclination. Sometimes we must walk away from the crowd, even the Christian crowd.
Parts of this
I've seen this before Dad posted it and parts of it I agree with.
Sometimes we get hurt by people we thought would never cause us any pain. But they do, they break our heart and the trust we had in them. They are the ones we love deeply and genuinely. The ones we never thought, even in our wildest dreams, would cause us any pain. But they do, and many times intentionally to show the power they have over us; how much control they have in our life. But while they are hurting us they forget one thing, and that is too much pain is also a healer. One day, anything they do will no longer affect us because they have lost the control they had in our life. One day, they will lose us too... -Neena Gupta
Sometimes we get hurt by people we thought would never cause us any pain. But they do, they break our heart and the trust we had in them. They are the ones we love deeply and genuinely. The ones we never thought, even in our wildest dreams, would cause us any pain. But they do, and many times intentionally to show the power they have over us; how much control they have in our life. But while they are hurting us they forget one thing, and that is too much pain is also a healer. One day, anything they do will no longer affect us because they have lost the control they had in our life. One day, they will lose us too... -Neena Gupta
Friday, November 17, 2017
Storm
This song came on my Pandora last night. It's by the same band that sings, "From Where You Are." That prompted me to track down that song again too. Beautiful.
Storm
by Lifehouse
How long have I been in this storm?
So overwhelmed by the ocean's shapeless form
Water's getting harder to tread
With these waves crashing over my head
If I could just see you
Everything would be all right
If I'd see you
This darkness would turn to light
And I will walk on water
And you will catch me if I fall
And I will get lost into your eyes
I know everything will be alright
I know everything is alright
I know you didn't bring me out here to drown
So why am I ten feet under and upside down
Barely surviving has become my purpose
Because I'm so used to living underneath the surface
If I could just see you
Everything would be all right
If I'd see you
This darkness would turn to light
And I will walk on water
And you will catch me if I fall
And I will get lost into your eyes
And I know everything will be alright
And I will walk on water
And you will catch me if I fall
And I will get lost into your eyes
I know everything will be alright
I know everything is alright
Everything's alright
Yeah, everything's alright
In the storm
This was a video on FB of a speaker named Jentezen Franklin.
I'm telling you today, that if you're going through a storm, you're in that storm for divine instructions. And God does not intend for you to go down, He intends for you to receive something in the storm.
But Jesus was about to show 12 of them what they would never see on the shore.
Some of you are about to see things in the storm that other people, burping on the blessings on the land, never get to see.
When God allows you to go through a storm, it is not to destroy you. It's to show you who He is on another dimension and level, that you've never seen Him move before.
I'm telling you today, that if you're going through a storm, you're in that storm for divine instructions. And God does not intend for you to go down, He intends for you to receive something in the storm.
But Jesus was about to show 12 of them what they would never see on the shore.
Some of you are about to see things in the storm that other people, burping on the blessings on the land, never get to see.
When God allows you to go through a storm, it is not to destroy you. It's to show you who He is on another dimension and level, that you've never seen Him move before.
Rock of Ages
I think we sung this or someone sung this recently at church. The 4th verse stood out to me but I decided to record the entire hymn.
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee;
Let the water and the blood,
From Thy wounded side which flowed,
Be of sin the double cure,
Save from wrath and make me pure.
Not the labor of my hands
Can fulfill Thy law's demands;
Could my zeal no respite know,
Could my tears forever flow;
All for sin could not atone;
Thou must save, and Thou alone.
Nothing in my hand I bring.
Simply to Thy cross I cling;
Naked, come to Thee for dress;
Helpless, look to Thee for grace;
Foul, I to the fountain fly;
Wash me, Savior, or I die.
While I draw this fleeting breath,
When my eyes shall close in death,
When I rise to worlds unknown,
And behold Thee on Thy throne,
Rock of Ages,cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee.
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee;
Let the water and the blood,
From Thy wounded side which flowed,
Be of sin the double cure,
Save from wrath and make me pure.
Not the labor of my hands
Can fulfill Thy law's demands;
Could my zeal no respite know,
Could my tears forever flow;
All for sin could not atone;
Thou must save, and Thou alone.
Nothing in my hand I bring.
Simply to Thy cross I cling;
Naked, come to Thee for dress;
Helpless, look to Thee for grace;
Foul, I to the fountain fly;
Wash me, Savior, or I die.
While I draw this fleeting breath,
When my eyes shall close in death,
When I rise to worlds unknown,
And behold Thee on Thy throne,
Rock of Ages,cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee.
Thursday, November 16, 2017
Oprah
This was from a video on Goalcast by Oprah. It was on Honorine's wall.
You always know it's the right thing when, in the end, there's peace.
You are rewarded by peace in knowing that you did the right thing.
Three things in life to carry you if you let them:
1. Knowing who you are
Who am I and what do I want?
I want to fulfill the highest, truest expression of myself as a human being. I want to fulfill the promise that the Creator dreamed when he dreamed the cells that made up me. You must have some kind of vision for your life, even if you don't know the plan, you have to have a direction in which you choose to go.
2. You must find a way to serve
3. Always do the right thing
You always know it's the right thing when, in the end, there's peace.
You are rewarded by peace in knowing that you did the right thing.
Three things in life to carry you if you let them:
1. Knowing who you are
Who am I and what do I want?
I want to fulfill the highest, truest expression of myself as a human being. I want to fulfill the promise that the Creator dreamed when he dreamed the cells that made up me. You must have some kind of vision for your life, even if you don't know the plan, you have to have a direction in which you choose to go.
2. You must find a way to serve
3. Always do the right thing
Embrace the suck
This was part of a video from Goalcast. It was very powerful.
"managing expectations"
Without friction there is no growth
Do something that sucks every day of your life-that's how you grow
Embrace the suck
"managing expectations"
Without friction there is no growth
Do something that sucks every day of your life-that's how you grow
Embrace the suck
Can't walk
From A.W. Tozer
We can't walk with the Holy Ghost unless we agree to walk the way He walks and go in the direction He's going.
We can't walk with the Holy Ghost unless we agree to walk the way He walks and go in the direction He's going.
Open my eyes
From today's Bible Gateway Verse of the Day.
Psalm 119:18
Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from Your law.
Psalm 119:18
Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from Your law.
Accepting God as your Father
Today's Daily Devotional by Max Lucado.
Accepting God As Your Father
by Max Lucado
I can't assure you your family will every give you the blessings you seek, but God will! Let God give you what your family doesn't. How do you do that? You do it be emotionally accepting God as your Father. It's one thing to accept Him as Lord, another to recognize Him as Savior, but another matter entirely to accept Him as Father.
To recognize God as Lord is to acknowledge that he is sovereign in the universe. To accept Him as Savior is to accept His gift of salvation offered on the cross. To regard God as Father is to go a step further. Ideally, a father is the one in your life who provides and protects. That's exactly what God has done! God has proven Himself as a faithful father. Now let God fill the void others have left. You are His child and He'll give you the blessing He promised!
Accepting God As Your Father
by Max Lucado
I can't assure you your family will every give you the blessings you seek, but God will! Let God give you what your family doesn't. How do you do that? You do it be emotionally accepting God as your Father. It's one thing to accept Him as Lord, another to recognize Him as Savior, but another matter entirely to accept Him as Father.
To recognize God as Lord is to acknowledge that he is sovereign in the universe. To accept Him as Savior is to accept His gift of salvation offered on the cross. To regard God as Father is to go a step further. Ideally, a father is the one in your life who provides and protects. That's exactly what God has done! God has proven Himself as a faithful father. Now let God fill the void others have left. You are His child and He'll give you the blessing He promised!
Wednesday, November 15, 2017
Just you
This reminds me of someone. It's from Toby Mac.
If you live your life as if everything is about you...
You will be left with just that.
Just you.
If you live your life as if everything is about you...
You will be left with just that.
Just you.
Something better
Heard this before, but it bears repeating.
When God asks you to give something up, He is never trying to take something away, He is trying to get something better for you.
When God asks you to give something up, He is never trying to take something away, He is trying to get something better for you.
Not so sure
The two songs from your tribute video played in a row, and I think this is the right order but maybe it's not: "To Where You Are" and "Forever Young". It always plays the other way around when they're together, but maybe that WAS the right way. Hmmm...I know I started singing one of them part way through-that might have been "Forever Young" first. I don't know. If I've been wrong all this time, thanks for pointing that out. Love you!
Absolutely terrified
From Georgia O'Keefe.
I've been absolutely terrified every moment of my life-and I've never let it keep me from doing a single thing I wanted to do.
I've been absolutely terrified every moment of my life-and I've never let it keep me from doing a single thing I wanted to do.
Not the worst thing
From A.W. Tozer, quoting Harry M. Shuman
This may sound strange-but it is a fact that death is not the worst thing that can happen to a believing Christian!..."Remember, Tozer," he said, "death is not the worst thing that can happen to a person!"
For the Christian, death is a journey to the eternal world. It is a victory, a rest, a delight. I am sure my small amount of physical suffering has been mild compared to Paul's, but I feel as Paul did: "I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far." (Philippians 2:23)
This may sound strange-but it is a fact that death is not the worst thing that can happen to a believing Christian!..."Remember, Tozer," he said, "death is not the worst thing that can happen to a person!"
For the Christian, death is a journey to the eternal world. It is a victory, a rest, a delight. I am sure my small amount of physical suffering has been mild compared to Paul's, but I feel as Paul did: "I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far." (Philippians 2:23)
Closed the door
Consider the fact that maybe God closed that door because He knew you were worth so much more.
My delights
Today's Bible Gateway Verse of the Day.
Psalm 119:143
Trouble and anguish have overtaken me,
Yet your commandments are my delight.
Psalm 119:143
Trouble and anguish have overtaken me,
Yet your commandments are my delight.
Resolves
Quote from A.W. Tozer.
When I understand that everything happening to me is to make me more Christlike, it resolves a great deal of anxiety.
When I understand that everything happening to me is to make me more Christlike, it resolves a great deal of anxiety.
Instinctively
A mother instinctively protects her child.
A grieving mother instinctively protects her child's memory.
A grieving mother instinctively protects her child's memory.
Tuesday, November 14, 2017
Wear you out
The devil couldn't take you out so he's trying to wear you out. Don't you dare get weary.
Hold on, the tide is about to turn in your favor!
Hold on, the tide is about to turn in your favor!
Learned through pain
Sometimes you must
Hurt in order to know
Fall in order to grow
Lose in order to gain
Because most of life's greatest lessons are
learned through pain
Hurt in order to know
Fall in order to grow
Lose in order to gain
Because most of life's greatest lessons are
learned through pain
Because of you
I want to inspire people. I want someone to look at me and say, "Because of you, I didn't give up."
How you know
Good article-found it on Facebook
This Is How You Know You're In An Abusive Relationship
by Jill Cory
You would know if you were in an abusive relationship, right? It would be obvious. Well, maybe not. Most women who experience abuse from a male partner spend months or even years thinking the relationship problem is something other than abuse. It's a "communication issue" or "a failure to set boundaries." Maybe you've thought your partner has a bad temper or a problem with anger management. Perhaps you think that you are doing something wrong or that there is something wrong with you. In our society, we aren't very good at talking about abuse, so women are often left wondering.
A common myth is that abuse means only physical abuse. But, actually, there are many different types of abuse, including emotional, psychological, financial, and sexual abuse. These can be just as damaging as physical abuse. For example, abusive partners can attempt to isolate you or cut you off from sources of support, use sarcasm or threats to put you down, change moods to intimidate you, express jealousy, and become emotionally distant.
They can also refuse to allow you to practice your faith, devalue your knowledge or education, control the finances, or threaten to have an affair if you don't do what they ask. These and many other examples are not generally thought of as abuse. You may know there is something "wrong" but may not label it as abuse. Here's a list of seven things that abusive partners often do in their relationships. Ask yourself if you partner does any of these things:
1. Takes away your freedom to choose what you want or need
Abusive partners are controlling and often do not allow their significant others to make choices for themselves. You may find yourself unable to ask for what you need or want without your partner becoming aggressive, angry, or reactive.
2. Demeans you
Abusers are very critical. Everything-your ideas, your beliefs, your body, even your feelings-are "stupid" or wrong. You may find that you second-guess yourself-what to wear, what to prepare for a meal, who you can be friends with-because you are worried about your partner's reaction.
3. Is unpredictable and volatile
While abusers can behave in acceptable or even positive ways some of the time, they are also unpredictable and even explosive in their behavior. This leaves women feeling like they are "walking on eggshells" because they are not sure what their partners will do next. If this is happening to you, you may find yourself exhausted and confused as you try to anticipate your partner's next move.
4. Blames you or others for their abusive behavior
Abusers rarely take responsibility for their behavior. Rather, it is everyone else's fault. The boss is causing him stress. The kids are making noise. You are "pushing his buttons." The abuse is not your fault, but he may leave you feeling like it is.
5. Uses the "silent treatment" to punish or frighten you
Abused partners find that they are punished in many ways when they do things that their partner does not like. The "silent treatment" is just one such punishment. The "silent treatment" can be terrifying for women because they do not know what will happen next.
6. Limits your access to money
Abusive partners are often very controlling when it comes to money. Since we need money to do just about anything, it is a powerful way to control someone. If your partner controls your access to money or other necessary resources such as a car, the computer, or the phone, you are being abused.
7. Apologizes for their behavior and promises to change but never does
Part of the pattern of abusive behavior includes periods of behavior that appears positive-times when he might seem caring and helpful. During these "honeymoon periods," he might even apologize for hurtful behavior and promise to change. But abuse is cyclical, and although he might promise to change or appear to be changing for a while, he will not be able to sustain it. His behavior will deteriorate again, and he will revert to controlling, frightening, or explosive behavior.
If you have experienced some of these behaviors from a current or past partner, you have likely experienced abuse. This is a hard reality to face. If you are with your partner, it may be hard to think of them as abusive. Your partner might not fit the stereotype of an abuser any more than you fit the stereotype of an "abused partner," but that doesn't matter. People who experience abuse come from all economic, racial, religious, and ethnic backgrounds. Abuse is not reserved for the poor or weak-it can happen to anyone.
This Is How You Know You're In An Abusive Relationship
by Jill Cory
You would know if you were in an abusive relationship, right? It would be obvious. Well, maybe not. Most women who experience abuse from a male partner spend months or even years thinking the relationship problem is something other than abuse. It's a "communication issue" or "a failure to set boundaries." Maybe you've thought your partner has a bad temper or a problem with anger management. Perhaps you think that you are doing something wrong or that there is something wrong with you. In our society, we aren't very good at talking about abuse, so women are often left wondering.
A common myth is that abuse means only physical abuse. But, actually, there are many different types of abuse, including emotional, psychological, financial, and sexual abuse. These can be just as damaging as physical abuse. For example, abusive partners can attempt to isolate you or cut you off from sources of support, use sarcasm or threats to put you down, change moods to intimidate you, express jealousy, and become emotionally distant.
They can also refuse to allow you to practice your faith, devalue your knowledge or education, control the finances, or threaten to have an affair if you don't do what they ask. These and many other examples are not generally thought of as abuse. You may know there is something "wrong" but may not label it as abuse. Here's a list of seven things that abusive partners often do in their relationships. Ask yourself if you partner does any of these things:
1. Takes away your freedom to choose what you want or need
Abusive partners are controlling and often do not allow their significant others to make choices for themselves. You may find yourself unable to ask for what you need or want without your partner becoming aggressive, angry, or reactive.
2. Demeans you
Abusers are very critical. Everything-your ideas, your beliefs, your body, even your feelings-are "stupid" or wrong. You may find that you second-guess yourself-what to wear, what to prepare for a meal, who you can be friends with-because you are worried about your partner's reaction.
3. Is unpredictable and volatile
While abusers can behave in acceptable or even positive ways some of the time, they are also unpredictable and even explosive in their behavior. This leaves women feeling like they are "walking on eggshells" because they are not sure what their partners will do next. If this is happening to you, you may find yourself exhausted and confused as you try to anticipate your partner's next move.
4. Blames you or others for their abusive behavior
Abusers rarely take responsibility for their behavior. Rather, it is everyone else's fault. The boss is causing him stress. The kids are making noise. You are "pushing his buttons." The abuse is not your fault, but he may leave you feeling like it is.
5. Uses the "silent treatment" to punish or frighten you
Abused partners find that they are punished in many ways when they do things that their partner does not like. The "silent treatment" is just one such punishment. The "silent treatment" can be terrifying for women because they do not know what will happen next.
6. Limits your access to money
Abusive partners are often very controlling when it comes to money. Since we need money to do just about anything, it is a powerful way to control someone. If your partner controls your access to money or other necessary resources such as a car, the computer, or the phone, you are being abused.
7. Apologizes for their behavior and promises to change but never does
Part of the pattern of abusive behavior includes periods of behavior that appears positive-times when he might seem caring and helpful. During these "honeymoon periods," he might even apologize for hurtful behavior and promise to change. But abuse is cyclical, and although he might promise to change or appear to be changing for a while, he will not be able to sustain it. His behavior will deteriorate again, and he will revert to controlling, frightening, or explosive behavior.
If you have experienced some of these behaviors from a current or past partner, you have likely experienced abuse. This is a hard reality to face. If you are with your partner, it may be hard to think of them as abusive. Your partner might not fit the stereotype of an abuser any more than you fit the stereotype of an "abused partner," but that doesn't matter. People who experience abuse come from all economic, racial, religious, and ethnic backgrounds. Abuse is not reserved for the poor or weak-it can happen to anyone.
Christ's suffering and ours
Today's Bible Gateway Verse of the Day.
1 Peter 3:18
Christ's Suffering and Ours
For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the Spirit.
1 Peter 3:18
Christ's Suffering and Ours
For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the Spirit.
Treasure
Quote from Tim Keller.
What you treasure will ultimately require you to die for it. Jesus is the only treasure that died for you.
A sweet dream
I just joined this FB group of mothers who have lost older children, so a lot of posts are popping up from that. Here is something that someone shared.
There are days when it feels like yesterday since I lost (him), other days feel like (he) was just a sweet dream.
There are days when it feels like yesterday since I lost (him), other days feel like (he) was just a sweet dream.
Monday, November 13, 2017
You don't decide
I think I've come across this before, but worth repeating. Helps now that I know who Louis C.K. is.
When a person tells you that you hurt them, you don't get to decide that you didn't.
When a person tells you that you hurt them, you don't get to decide that you didn't.
No goodbyes
On website for Luminous Light Studio for favorite sayings.
There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart. -Mahatma Gandhi
There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart. -Mahatma Gandhi
Not assuaged
On Luminous Light Studio website as one of favorite sayings.
Though I speak, my grief is not assuaged. -Job 16:6
Definition of assuaged: made less intense, satisfied
Though I speak, my grief is not assuaged. -Job 16:6
Definition of assuaged: made less intense, satisfied
True love
That's what true love is. Always wanting what's best for someone, even if that doesn't include you.
A feather
From Luminous Light Studio website.
Let me be a feather. Strong with purpose yet light at heart, able to bend. And, though I might become frayed, able to pull myself together again. -Anita Sams
Let me be a feather. Strong with purpose yet light at heart, able to bend. And, though I might become frayed, able to pull myself together again. -Anita Sams
Preeminence
Not sure if today's or yesterday's Bible Gateway Verse of the Day. I love it when they have their own little "title."
Colossians 1:9
Preeminence of Christ
For this reason, we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding.
Colossians 1:9
Preeminence of Christ
For this reason, we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding.
The will of God
Bible Gateway Verse of the Day-not sure if today's or yesterday's
1 Peter 2:15-16
For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men-as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for vice, but as bondservants of God.
1 Peter 2:15-16
For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men-as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for vice, but as bondservants of God.
Break your spirit
A person can break your heart and damage your pride, but never give them the power to break your spirit which God gave you.
Fill in the blank
This was part of a Max Lucado daily devotional.
From Romans 3:28
A person is made right with God through faith.
From Romans 3:28
A person is made right with God through faith.
If today
From Toby Mac.
If today I lose my hope, God, remind me that your plans are better than my dream.
If today I lose my hope, God, remind me that your plans are better than my dream.
Empowering
There were all from Sarah C.'s FB page this weekend.
The right person by your side will have you saving money, living better, making moves, and laughing constantly.
Never regret being a good person to the wrong people. Your behavior says everything about you, and their behavior says enough about them.
She's been through more hell than you'll ever know. But, that's what gives her beauty an edge...
You can't touch a woman who can wear pain like the grandest of diamonds around her neck. -Alfa
God broke me down this year and built me back up stronger than before...talk about real love.
She loves out of mind, out of what hurts...and that's why she wants to save you, because deep down she's the type of woman who wants to fix broken things...so to be with her you must understand how her heart is strong enough to heal the world. -R.M. Drake
Every night her thoughts weighed heavily on her soul but every morning she would get up to fight another day, every night she survived. -R.H. Sin
The right person by your side will have you saving money, living better, making moves, and laughing constantly.
Never regret being a good person to the wrong people. Your behavior says everything about you, and their behavior says enough about them.
She's been through more hell than you'll ever know. But, that's what gives her beauty an edge...
You can't touch a woman who can wear pain like the grandest of diamonds around her neck. -Alfa
God broke me down this year and built me back up stronger than before...talk about real love.
She loves out of mind, out of what hurts...and that's why she wants to save you, because deep down she's the type of woman who wants to fix broken things...so to be with her you must understand how her heart is strong enough to heal the world. -R.M. Drake
Every night her thoughts weighed heavily on her soul but every morning she would get up to fight another day, every night she survived. -R.H. Sin
Friday, November 10, 2017
Speedbump
From Toby Mac
Never let anyone with the significance of a speedbump become a roadblock in your life.
Never let anyone with the significance of a speedbump become a roadblock in your life.
Though your sins
One of the daily Bible verses from Bible Gateway
Isaiah 1:18
"Come now, and let us reason together,"
Says the Lord,
"Though your sins are like scarlet,
They shall be as white as snow;
Though they are red like crimson,
They shall be as wool."
Isaiah 1:18
"Come now, and let us reason together,"
Says the Lord,
"Though your sins are like scarlet,
They shall be as white as snow;
Though they are red like crimson,
They shall be as wool."
Genuinely forgiven
By Johnny Hunt.
You can be genuinely forgiven by God and other people but still suffer the consequences from a particular sin in your life.
You can be genuinely forgiven by God and other people but still suffer the consequences from a particular sin in your life.
We cannot comprehend
Today's Bible Gateway Verse of the Day.
Job 37:56
God thunders marvelously with His voice; He does great things which we cannot comprehend. For He says to the snow, 'Fall on the earth'; Likewise to the gentle rain and the heavy rain of His strength.
Job 37:56
God thunders marvelously with His voice; He does great things which we cannot comprehend. For He says to the snow, 'Fall on the earth'; Likewise to the gentle rain and the heavy rain of His strength.
Where is God when I hurt
Today's Daily Devotional by Max Lucado.
Where Is God When I Hurt?
The Bible says in Romans 8:28 that "in everything God works for the good of those who love Him." Do this simple exercise. Remove the word "everything" and replace it with the symbol of your tragedy. How would Romans 8:28 read in your life? In hospital stays God works for the good. In divorce papers God works for the good.
As hard as it may be to believe you could only be a Saturday away from a resurrection. Hours from that precious prayer of a changed heart. God you did this for me?
Everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, Paul said, the Scriptures give us patience and encouragement so that we can have hope. These are not somewhere-over-the-rainbow illusions. They are historic moments in which a real God met real pain so we could answer the question, "Where is God when I hurt?"
(I'm trying it: In Hayden's death God works for the good. Powerful!)
Where Is God When I Hurt?
The Bible says in Romans 8:28 that "in everything God works for the good of those who love Him." Do this simple exercise. Remove the word "everything" and replace it with the symbol of your tragedy. How would Romans 8:28 read in your life? In hospital stays God works for the good. In divorce papers God works for the good.
As hard as it may be to believe you could only be a Saturday away from a resurrection. Hours from that precious prayer of a changed heart. God you did this for me?
Everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, Paul said, the Scriptures give us patience and encouragement so that we can have hope. These are not somewhere-over-the-rainbow illusions. They are historic moments in which a real God met real pain so we could answer the question, "Where is God when I hurt?"
(I'm trying it: In Hayden's death God works for the good. Powerful!)
Thursday, November 9, 2017
Just for you
Today's Daily Devotional from Max Lucado.
Just For You
I'm about to tell you something you may find hard to believe. You don't have to agree with me, but I'd like you to consider it with me. Here it is: If you were the only person on earth, the earth would look exactly the same. The Himalayas would still have their drama and the Caribbean its charm. The sun would still nestle behind the Rockies in the evenings and spray light on the desert in the mornings.
If you were the sole pilgrim on this globe, God would not diminish its beauty one degree. Because He did it all for you. And He's waiting for you to discover His gift, for your eyes to pop, your heart to stop. He's waiting for the moment between the dropping of the jaw and the leap of the heart. For in that silence He whispers...I did it just for you.
Just For You
I'm about to tell you something you may find hard to believe. You don't have to agree with me, but I'd like you to consider it with me. Here it is: If you were the only person on earth, the earth would look exactly the same. The Himalayas would still have their drama and the Caribbean its charm. The sun would still nestle behind the Rockies in the evenings and spray light on the desert in the mornings.
If you were the sole pilgrim on this globe, God would not diminish its beauty one degree. Because He did it all for you. And He's waiting for you to discover His gift, for your eyes to pop, your heart to stop. He's waiting for the moment between the dropping of the jaw and the leap of the heart. For in that silence He whispers...I did it just for you.
Total eclipse of the heart
Always been one of my all-time favorite songs
Total Eclipse of the Heart
by Bonnie Tyler
(Turn around)
Every now and then
I get a little bit lonely
And you're never coming round
(Turn around)
Every now and then
I get a little bit tired
Of listening to the sound of my tears
(Turn around)
Every now and then
I get a little bit nervous
That the best of all the years have gone by
(Turn around)
Every now and then I get a little bit terrified
And then I see the look in your eyes
(Turn around, bright eyes)
Every now and then I fall apart
(Turn around, bright eyes)
Every now and then
I fall apart
(Turn around)
Every now and then
I get a little but restless
And I dream of something wild
(Turn around)
Every now and then
I get a little bit helpless
And I'm lying like a child in your arms
(Turn around)
Every now and then
I get a little bit angry
And I know I've got to get out and cry
(Turn around)
Every now and then
I get a little bit terrified
But then I see the look in your eyes
(Turn around, bright eyes)
Every now and then
I fall apart
Turn around, bright eyes
Every now and then
I fall apart
And I need you now tonight
And I need you more than ever
And if you only hold me tight
We'll be holding on forever
And we'll only be making it right
'Cause we'll never be wrong
Together we can take it to the end of the line
Your love is like a shadow on my all of the time (all of the time)
I don't know what to do and I'm always in the dark
We're living in a powder keg and giving off sparks
I really need you tonight
Forever's gonna start tonight
(Forever's gonna start tonight)
Once upon a time I was falling in love
But now I'm only falling apart
There's nothing I can do
A total eclipse of the heart
Once upon a time there was light in my life
But now there's only love in the dark
Nothing I can say
A total eclipse of the heart
(Turn around, bright eyes)
(Turn around, bright eyes)
(Turn around)
Every now and then
I know you'll never be the boy
You always wanted to be
(Turn around)
But every now and then
I know you'll always be the only boy
Who wanted me the way that I am
(Turn around)
Every now and then
I know there's no one in the universe
As magical and wondrous as you
(Turn around)
Every now and then
I know there's nothing any better
There's nothing that I just wouldn't do
(Turn around, bright eyes)
Every now and then I fall apart
(Turn around, bright eyes)
Every now and then I fall apart
And I need you now tonight
And I need you more than ever
And if you only hold me tight
We'll be holding on forever
And we'll only be making it right
'Cause we'll never be wrong
Together we can take it to the end of the line
Your love is like a shadow on me all of the time (all of the time)
I don't know what to do
I'm always in the dark
Living in a powder keg and giving off sparks
I really need you tonight
Forever's gonna start tonight
(Forever's gonna start tonight)
Once upon a time I was falling in love
But now I'm only falling apart
There's nothing I can do
A total eclipse of the heart
Once upon a time there was light in my life
But now there's only love in the dark
Nothing I can say
A total eclipse of the heart
A total eclipse of the heart
A total eclipse of the heart
(Turn around, bright eyes)
(Turn around, bright eyes)
(Turn around)
Conversation
Me to K, 11:45 pm: I was thinking about what you said about your accomplishments at work, and you should be very proud of yourself that the hospital has noticed how valuable you are. Beyond any monetary reward though, you should be proud of yourself for having such a positive effect on the staff which in turn helps the patients. You are affecting a lot of people in a positive way by sharing your gifts, talents and pursuit of excellence with the world. Your company is lucky to have you as well as any hospital you work with. You are a blessing to so many people just by being you, and I am privileged to be one of those people.
K to me, 12:55 am: Guess I really never looked at it from those perspectives. The past couple of years I have met so many wonderful, gifted and talented individuals who have helped me through some rather tough times. You (Hayden, Hope, Carter & Bill) have helped me through a rather difficult time. During the past 2-3 months I can honestly say the events following 3.14.15 no longer consume my daily thoughts and I (am) thankful and grateful to you for that. Guess you could say I am privileged and blessed for having you come into my life...sleep well..."After all, tomorrow is another day"...SO-GWTW
Mild 45 (degrees)
Me: 31 (degrees) and mostly cloudy
(Side note: I didn't know he wrote back since then and thought he just woke up and gave me the morning temperature. I didn't notice the other thing he wrote until a little later)
K: Your 11:45pm was so eloquently written. My lame attempt doesn't even compare. Off to an 7 am meeting, then 8, then 9:30 then Airport around 12:00
Have a fantastic, stress free day!
Me (after reading above): Thank you for what you said as well. Since we're "going there"...even though nothing or no one can fill the hole in my heart from losing Hayden, I must say that I never expected to gain anything new that helps to offset that deficit. I may never understand why you chose to and continue to involve yourself in what has sometimes been a chaotic situation, but I am so grateful you did and continue to do so. Although none of us knows what the future holds, you have given me hope which I also never expected to have after 8/21/2015. Thank you for that.
K to me, 12:55 am: Guess I really never looked at it from those perspectives. The past couple of years I have met so many wonderful, gifted and talented individuals who have helped me through some rather tough times. You (Hayden, Hope, Carter & Bill) have helped me through a rather difficult time. During the past 2-3 months I can honestly say the events following 3.14.15 no longer consume my daily thoughts and I (am) thankful and grateful to you for that. Guess you could say I am privileged and blessed for having you come into my life...sleep well..."After all, tomorrow is another day"...SO-GWTW
Mild 45 (degrees)
Me: 31 (degrees) and mostly cloudy
(Side note: I didn't know he wrote back since then and thought he just woke up and gave me the morning temperature. I didn't notice the other thing he wrote until a little later)
K: Your 11:45pm was so eloquently written. My lame attempt doesn't even compare. Off to an 7 am meeting, then 8, then 9:30 then Airport around 12:00
Have a fantastic, stress free day!
Me (after reading above): Thank you for what you said as well. Since we're "going there"...even though nothing or no one can fill the hole in my heart from losing Hayden, I must say that I never expected to gain anything new that helps to offset that deficit. I may never understand why you chose to and continue to involve yourself in what has sometimes been a chaotic situation, but I am so grateful you did and continue to do so. Although none of us knows what the future holds, you have given me hope which I also never expected to have after 8/21/2015. Thank you for that.
Wednesday, November 8, 2017
He saw Jesus
This song is by Kathie Lee Gifford
He Saw Jesus
by Kathie Lee Gifford
A little kiss, a little coffee
A little moment to pray
Our Sunday mornings always started that way
Make up in the mirror
Humming a gospel song
When I came down the stairs I knew that something was wrong
He was lying on the floor
He was in a better place
And I could tell for sure by that sweet look on his face
He saw Jesus. He saw Jesus
And He took his breath away
He was a man who never wanted to leave his house
But he went home that day
He saw the heavens open
Saw the Father's open arms
and when you feel that kind of love
How could you stay
When he saw Jesus, cause he saw Jesus
And He took his breath away
No I didn't lose him, I know right where he is
'Cause he was never really mine, no
He was always His
And though I miss his kisses
I can't fill that empty space
It helps when I remember
That sweet look on his face
When he saw Jesus. He saw Jesus
And He took his breath away
He was a man who never wanted to leave his house
But he went home that day
He saw the heavens open
Saw the Father's open arms
And when you see that kind of love
What can you say
But thank you Jesus
When he saw Jesus
And He took his breath away
Now I know every Sunday morning
When I kneel down to pray
He'd want me to live
He'd want me to love
Each and every day
Till I see Jesus. Till I see Jesus.
And He takes my breath away
I'm in no hurry
To leave this world behind
But I know I'll go to a better place
Oh, I'll see the heavens open
I'll see the Father's open arms
And when you feel that kind of love
How could I stay
When I see Jesus. When I see Jesus.
And He takes my breath away
So I keep breathing
I keep breathing
Till He takes my breath away
Pam and Jim
You were my best friend before you went to Stamford. And I really miss you. I shouldn't have been with Roy. And there were a lot of reasons to call off my wedding. But the truth is, I didn't care about any of those reasons until I met you.
He's going to be sorry
The reason why I haven't unfriended Sarah C. on Facebook yet, although a lot of her posts are offensive.
He's going to be sorry he lost you, so stop worrying. Forget the past, forget the pain, and remember what an incredible woman you are.
He's going to be sorry he lost you, so stop worrying. Forget the past, forget the pain, and remember what an incredible woman you are.
Me and my house
Today's Bible Verse of the Day.
Joshua 24:15
And if it seems evil of you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
Joshua 24:15
And if it seems evil of you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
Girl like her
You don't just "catch" a girl like her. If you are lucky enough to have her, it's because she let you. Remember that.
Missed you
I missed you for too long,
in too many ways,
that it became just another part of me;
engraved deeper into my heart with the passing of time.
I would wake up,
stretch,
breathe,
and miss you.
They told me to let it go
to let you go
and I would say:
You cannot simply will your heart to stop beating,
that no matter how long you hold your breath for,
you cannot hold it forever,
and I could only stop missing you,
if I stopped being myself entirely.
in too many ways,
that it became just another part of me;
engraved deeper into my heart with the passing of time.
I would wake up,
stretch,
breathe,
and miss you.
They told me to let it go
to let you go
and I would say:
You cannot simply will your heart to stop beating,
that no matter how long you hold your breath for,
you cannot hold it forever,
and I could only stop missing you,
if I stopped being myself entirely.
Tuesday, November 7, 2017
"D" word quotes
Divorce is always good news. I know it sounds weird, but it's true because no good marriage has ever ended in divorce. That's never happened-THAT would be sad. -Louis CK, comedian
The only thing more unthinkable than leaving was staying; the only thing more impossible than staying was leaving. -Elizabeth Gilbert, author of Eat, Pray, Love
Marriages come and go, but divorce is forever. -Nora Ephron
It takes two to destroy a marriage. -Margaret Trudeau
If you're brave enough to say goodbye, life will reward you with a new hello. -Paulo Coehlo
Divorce isn't a tragedy. A tragedy is staying in an unhappy marriage, teaching your children the wrong things about love. Nobody ever died of divorce. -Jennifer Weiner, Fly Away Home
When two people decide to get a divorce, it isn't a sign that they 'don't understand' one another, but a sign that they have, at last, begun to. -Helen Rowland
It's possible to have a loving divorce. It takes an enormous amount of courage to change your life. No one wants a marriage to end; no one wants to have that heart-crushing conversation with the kids-but it happens. -Laurie David
(Side for above: What if your relationship is over, but a new kind of love can take its place?)
From article by Mary Hawkins on Cafemom.com:
I've said it before and I'll say it again--choosing to move on from a negative situation where you honestly feel like you are drowning and gasping for air every single day in the hopes of finally living a happy, authentic life is something worth embracing and celebrating.
The only thing more unthinkable than leaving was staying; the only thing more impossible than staying was leaving. -Elizabeth Gilbert, author of Eat, Pray, Love
Marriages come and go, but divorce is forever. -Nora Ephron
It takes two to destroy a marriage. -Margaret Trudeau
If you're brave enough to say goodbye, life will reward you with a new hello. -Paulo Coehlo
Divorce isn't a tragedy. A tragedy is staying in an unhappy marriage, teaching your children the wrong things about love. Nobody ever died of divorce. -Jennifer Weiner, Fly Away Home
When two people decide to get a divorce, it isn't a sign that they 'don't understand' one another, but a sign that they have, at last, begun to. -Helen Rowland
It's possible to have a loving divorce. It takes an enormous amount of courage to change your life. No one wants a marriage to end; no one wants to have that heart-crushing conversation with the kids-but it happens. -Laurie David
(Side for above: What if your relationship is over, but a new kind of love can take its place?)
From article by Mary Hawkins on Cafemom.com:
I've said it before and I'll say it again--choosing to move on from a negative situation where you honestly feel like you are drowning and gasping for air every single day in the hopes of finally living a happy, authentic life is something worth embracing and celebrating.
For it is God
Bible Verse of the day from Bible Gateway the other day.
2 Corinthians 4:6
For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
2 Corinthians 4:6
For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
Not about you
A surprisingly inspirational quote from Jay-Z
My first show, I forgot the lyrics. You have to have such a strong belief in yourself that you can quiet out all the outside noise.
There are people that are projecting their fears, their shortcomings, and failures on you. People telling "you can't do that". Because they have tried or they don't believe that they can do it.
It's not really about you. It's about what they feel and their fear inside.
My first show, I forgot the lyrics. You have to have such a strong belief in yourself that you can quiet out all the outside noise.
There are people that are projecting their fears, their shortcomings, and failures on you. People telling "you can't do that". Because they have tried or they don't believe that they can do it.
It's not really about you. It's about what they feel and their fear inside.
Troubled waters
From Toby Mac.
God sometimes takes us into troubled waters not to drown us but to cleanse us.
Monday, November 6, 2017
Mercy
Quote from C.H. Spurgeon.
Mercy may seem slow, but it is sure. The Lord in unfailing wisdom has appointed a time for the outgoings of his gracious power, and God's time is the best time.
Mercy may seem slow, but it is sure. The Lord in unfailing wisdom has appointed a time for the outgoings of his gracious power, and God's time is the best time.
Broken
She has been broken, so when she lets you in it's not because she needs you...she stopped needing people a long time ago. If she lets you in it's because she wants you and that is the purest love of all.
Happy in my heartache
Sent me this song too.
Happy In My Heartache
by Josh Groban
Coffee is on the table, and I
Just can't seem to wake up this aching heart of mine
One more day without you and I'll be fine
I know I'm good for waiting but waiting's wasted time
Oh and I, I don't take it lightly,
The trouble that I've gone through, to get you to know who I am
Oh and I, I can't find a reason to be happy in this heartache,
'Cause I should know better than that
I'm better than that
Wicked winds are blowing through the halls
These old familiar faces are clinging to the walls
I know it's cold but I can't feel at all
And I know these walls are crumbling,
And I won't stay to watch them fall
Oh and I, I don't take it lightly,
The trouble that I've gone through, to get you to know who I am
Oh and I, I can't find a reason to be happy in my heartache,
'Cause I should know better than that
But I can't stop loving you
I don't know what to do
To keep holding on
Oh and I, I don't take it lightly,
The trouble that I've gone through, I've given you all that I am
Oh and I, I can't find a reason to be happy in my heartache,
'Cause I should know better than that
Oh I'm better than that
If I Could Fly
K sent me this song this weekend.
If I Could Fly
by One Direction
If I could fly, I'd be coming right back home to you
I think I might give up everything, just ask me to
Pay attention, I hope that you listen cause I let my guard down
Right now I'm completely defenseless
For your eyes only, I show you my heart
For when you're lonely and forget who you are
I'm missing half of me when we're apart
Now you know me, for your eyes only
For your eyes only
I've got scars, even though they always can't be seen
And pain gets hard, but now you're here and I don't feel a thing
Pay attention, I hope that you listen cause I let my guard down
Right now I'm completely defenseless
For your eyes only, I show you my heart
For when you're lonely and forget who you are
I'm missing half of me when we're apart
Now you know me, for your eyes only
For your eyes only
I can feel your heart inside of mine
(I feel it, I feel it)
I've been going out of my mind
( I feel it, I feel it)
Know that I'm just wasting time
And I
Hope that you don't run from me
For your eyes only,
I show you my heart
For when you're lonely
And forget who you are
I'm missing half of me
When we're apart
Now you know me, for your eyes only
For your eyes only, I show you my heart
For when you're lonely and forget who you are
I'm missing half of me when we're apart
Now you know me, for your eyes only
For your eyes only
Brave
K discovered this song this weekend and sent me the lyrics. There were a few parts that I have been singing along "wrong" all this time. Makes the song even more amazing to me.
Brave
by Josh Groban
Wake up, wake up, the sun cannot wait for long
Reach out, reach out before it fades away
You will find the warmth when you surrender
Smile into the fear and let it play
You wanna run away, run away
And you say that it can't be so
You wanna look away, look away
But you stay 'cause it's all so close
When you stand up and hold out your hand
In the face that I don't understand
My reason to be brave
Hold on, hold on so strong, time just carries on
All that you thought was wrong is pure again
You can't hide forever from the thunder
Look into the storm and feel the rain
You wanna run away, run away
And you say that it can't be so
You wanna look away, look away
But you stay 'cause it's all so close
When you stand up and hold out your hand
In the face that I don't understand
My reason to be brave
Go on, go on
You wanna run away, run away
And you say that it can't be so
You wanna look away, look away
But you stay 'cause it's all so close
When you stand up and hold out your hand
In the face what you don't understand
My reason to be brave
Your crown
A quote from Maya Angelou.
Your crown has been bought and paid for. Put it on your head and wear it.
Your crown has been bought and paid for. Put it on your head and wear it.
The wrong way
Quote from Angelina Jolie.
People say that you're going the wrong way when it's simply a way of your own.
People say that you're going the wrong way when it's simply a way of your own.
Friday, November 3, 2017
Wounds
This was a speech from that Goalcast Facebook page. Here are excerpts from a speech by Greg Boyle from the University of Notre Dame.
Then he stopped speaking, so overwhelmed with emotion, and he seemed to be staring at a piece of his story that only he could see. When he could regain his speech he said through his tears, "I wore three t-shirts well into my adult years because I was ashamed of my wounds. I didn't want anybody to see 'em but now I welcome my wounds. I run my fingers over my scars. My wounds are my friends. After all, how can I help the wounded if I don't welcome my own wounds?"
The measure of our compassion lies not in our service of those on the margin, but only in our willingness to see ourselves in kinship with them. You have to brace yourselves because people will accuse you of wasting your time.
You stand with the poor and the powerless and the voiceless, you stand with those whose dignity has been denied. You stand with those whose burdens are more than they can bear, and you will go from here and have this exquisite privilege once in a while to be able to stand with the easily despised and the readily left out, with the demonized, so that the demonizing will stop.
The gentle kind soul, he is proof that only the soul that ventilates the world with tenderness has any chance of changing the world.
Then he stopped speaking, so overwhelmed with emotion, and he seemed to be staring at a piece of his story that only he could see. When he could regain his speech he said through his tears, "I wore three t-shirts well into my adult years because I was ashamed of my wounds. I didn't want anybody to see 'em but now I welcome my wounds. I run my fingers over my scars. My wounds are my friends. After all, how can I help the wounded if I don't welcome my own wounds?"
The measure of our compassion lies not in our service of those on the margin, but only in our willingness to see ourselves in kinship with them. You have to brace yourselves because people will accuse you of wasting your time.
You stand with the poor and the powerless and the voiceless, you stand with those whose dignity has been denied. You stand with those whose burdens are more than they can bear, and you will go from here and have this exquisite privilege once in a while to be able to stand with the easily despised and the readily left out, with the demonized, so that the demonizing will stop.
The gentle kind soul, he is proof that only the soul that ventilates the world with tenderness has any chance of changing the world.
The kingdom of God
From Daily Bible Verse Calendar
Luke 17:20b-21
The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:
Neither shall they say, Lo here! or lo there!
For, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.
Luke 17:20b-21
The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:
Neither shall they say, Lo here! or lo there!
For, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.
Wednesday, November 1, 2017
A hundred
Quote from Winnie the Pooh.
If you live to be a hundred, I want to live to be a hundred minus one day so I never have to live without you.
If you live to be a hundred, I want to live to be a hundred minus one day so I never have to live without you.
Same Kind Of Different As Me
Saw this movie last night with Mrs. Johnson. It was incredible. I looked up a bunch of quotes from the movie.
The Word says God don't give us credit for lovin the folks we want to love anyway. No, He gives us credit for loving the unlovable. The perfect love of God don't come with no conditions. -Denver Moore
When you is precious to God, you become important to Satan. -Denver Moore
Our limitation is God's opportunity. When you get all the way to the end of your rope and there ain't nothin' you can do, that's when God takes over. -Denver Moore
"But sometimes we has to be thankful for the thing that hurts us," I said, "'cause sometimes God does things that hurt us but they help somebody else."
I used to spend a lotta time worryin that I was different from other people, even from other homeless folks. Then, after I met Miss Debbie, and Mr. Ron, I worried that I was so different from then that we wouldn't even gon' have no kind a' future. But I found out everybody's different-the same kind of different as me. We're all just regular folks walkin down the road God done set in front of us. The truth about it is, whether we is rich or poor or somethin' in between, this earth ain't no final restin' place. So in a way, we all is homeless-just workin' our way toward home. -Denver Moore
(At this part in the movie, Denver spoke these words at Debbie's funeral and added, "Welcome home, Miss Debbie, welcome home")
Those precious to God become important to Satan.
He assured me that God didn't make cancer because cancer is not good, and he cautioned me not to blame God for something He didn't make.
The pain of losing Deborah still brings tears. And I cannot mask my profound disappointment that God did not answer yes to our prayers for healing. I think He's okay with that. One of the phrases we evangelicals like to throw around is that Christianity is "not a religion; it's a relationship." I believe that, which is why I know that when my faith was shattered and raged against Him, He still accepted me. And even though I have penciled a black mark in His column, I can be honest about it. That's what a relationship is all about. -Ron Hall
The Word of God says God put ever star in the heavens and even give ever one of em a name. If one of em was gon' fall out of the sky, that was up to Him, too. Maybe we can't see where it's gon' wind up, but He can. That's when I knew that even though it didn't make no sense to me, God had put Miss Debbie in my life like a bright star, and God knew where she was gon' wind up. And I found out that sometimes we just have to accept the things we don't understand.
That's the good thing 'bout God. Since He can see right through your heart anyway, you can go and tell Him what you really think.
Mr. Ron, I was captive in the devil's prison. That was easy for Miss Debbie to see. But I got to tell you: Many folks had seen me behind the bars of that prison for more than thirty years, and they just walked on by. Kept their keys in their pocket and left me locked up. Now I ain't tryin' to run them other folks down, 'cause I was not a nice fella-dangerous-and prob'ly just as happy to stay in prison. But Miss Debbie was different-she seen me behind them bars and reached way down in her pocket and pulled out the keys God gave her and used one to unlock the prison door and set me free.
The Word says God don't give us credit for lovin the folks we want to love anyway. No, He gives us credit for loving the unlovable. The perfect love of God don't come with no conditions. -Denver Moore
When you is precious to God, you become important to Satan. -Denver Moore
Our limitation is God's opportunity. When you get all the way to the end of your rope and there ain't nothin' you can do, that's when God takes over. -Denver Moore
"But sometimes we has to be thankful for the thing that hurts us," I said, "'cause sometimes God does things that hurt us but they help somebody else."
I used to spend a lotta time worryin that I was different from other people, even from other homeless folks. Then, after I met Miss Debbie, and Mr. Ron, I worried that I was so different from then that we wouldn't even gon' have no kind a' future. But I found out everybody's different-the same kind of different as me. We're all just regular folks walkin down the road God done set in front of us. The truth about it is, whether we is rich or poor or somethin' in between, this earth ain't no final restin' place. So in a way, we all is homeless-just workin' our way toward home. -Denver Moore
(At this part in the movie, Denver spoke these words at Debbie's funeral and added, "Welcome home, Miss Debbie, welcome home")
Those precious to God become important to Satan.
He assured me that God didn't make cancer because cancer is not good, and he cautioned me not to blame God for something He didn't make.
The pain of losing Deborah still brings tears. And I cannot mask my profound disappointment that God did not answer yes to our prayers for healing. I think He's okay with that. One of the phrases we evangelicals like to throw around is that Christianity is "not a religion; it's a relationship." I believe that, which is why I know that when my faith was shattered and raged against Him, He still accepted me. And even though I have penciled a black mark in His column, I can be honest about it. That's what a relationship is all about. -Ron Hall
The Word of God says God put ever star in the heavens and even give ever one of em a name. If one of em was gon' fall out of the sky, that was up to Him, too. Maybe we can't see where it's gon' wind up, but He can. That's when I knew that even though it didn't make no sense to me, God had put Miss Debbie in my life like a bright star, and God knew where she was gon' wind up. And I found out that sometimes we just have to accept the things we don't understand.
That's the good thing 'bout God. Since He can see right through your heart anyway, you can go and tell Him what you really think.
Mr. Ron, I was captive in the devil's prison. That was easy for Miss Debbie to see. But I got to tell you: Many folks had seen me behind the bars of that prison for more than thirty years, and they just walked on by. Kept their keys in their pocket and left me locked up. Now I ain't tryin' to run them other folks down, 'cause I was not a nice fella-dangerous-and prob'ly just as happy to stay in prison. But Miss Debbie was different-she seen me behind them bars and reached way down in her pocket and pulled out the keys God gave her and used one to unlock the prison door and set me free.
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