Musings of Edwina

Author Daniel Neff

2012-01-23T06:01:00.000-05:00

Daniel Neff is a friend from years past. We attended church together and I knew him then as an upstanding Christian man. Over the years, Dan has lived through experiences that has made him even stronger in his faith. I encourage you to check out his Amazon page to learn more about Dan and the two books he has written to date. "God Said Not Yet" is his personal testimony and is an amazing story of the healing power of God. If you need to be encouraged today, this is the book you need to buy!

http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B006CBH85Q

Book Review: Ashes to Beauty

2012-01-22T08:21:00.000-05:00

Ashes to Beauty

The Real CinderellaStory

A Fairytale for Girls ofAll Ages

I am in the midst of reading a newbook by Robert A. Schuler for the purpose of writing a review before the book’sdebut in May. However, I received a book in the mail yesterday with a title andartwork that intrigued me to the point of setting Schuler’s book aside andreading this one.

“Ashes to Beauty – The Real CinderellaStory – A Fairytale for Girls of All Ages” is a most delightful book. KimZweygardt has taken the fairytale that we knew as young girls and developed itinto a moving and meaningful allegory of the beauty God truly sees in us. Itis the story of deep, unconditional Love pursuing His beloved.

“Ashes to Beauty” is illustrated by Kim’s husband, Kary. His beautifully detailed artwork sets the stage for the pursuit—the hearts’ desire of girls of all ages. We want to be pursued. We want to be beautiful. We want to be loved. “Ashes to Beauty” shows that we are all of those things to God.

This smallbook with a huge message should become a part of every woman’s library. And itshould be shared with your daughters, granddaughters, nieces, and friends. Youwill be blessed.

Guest Interview with Zeke Lam

2012-01-16T03:00:00.000-05:00

I am delighted to have Zeke Lam as my guest today. Zeke is the founder of SUBMISSION Ministries and has written subMISSION: Heeding Only His Voice. The synopsis of the book:

What is the greatest challenge that the Church is facing today? Zeke Lam suggests that one word is the greatest challenge: submission, or the lack thereof. It is not external forces that nullify the testimony of a Christ-centered believer, but rather the failure to humbly submit to the voice of the Lord. This book will help you to live a surrendered life abiding in Christ.

Ø Is the approval of God more important to you than the approval of man?

Ø Is the presence of God evident in your life?

Ø Do you fiercely protect your intimacy with Christ?

Ø Do you desire to live a life of truth, free from the lies of the devil?

Ø Is God’s divine character visible to those around you?

Learn how to submit your life wholeheartedly to the Lord so that you can dwell continually in the secret place—a place of intimacy, surrender and joy.

Zeke, tell us more about yourself.

I am 27 years old and have been married to my beautiful wife, Kathleen, for 6 years. We have three children (4, 2, and 2 months) that we love very much. I have ministered since the age of 18 as a youth minister and evangelist. In addition to this, I operate a small business which constructs ornamental concrete such as flower pots, bird baths, etc. I also help out with the family furniture when time permits. We are passionate to see Christ glorified through our lives, and constantly remain seek to use our lives to share the Gospel. This has led our family all over the world. Our most recent “adventure” involved us literally driving to a town in Texas, renting an apartment, and seeking the Lord. Although we knew nobody or anything about the place, God gave us an entire church fellowship in 2 days! This turned into an incredible 7 month stay that is surely not finished yet.

What motivated you to write this book?

Compromise is way too commonplace today. I have seen it in the church, in families, and in my own life. If revival is to take place in or society, God’s people must be willing to operate with the level of obedience and submission God requires. Mixing our opinions with God’s commands or desires is the very recipe for disaster. If we will fully release ourselves to Jesus Christ, and be willing to follow Him the way He commands, a shift will take place in our society! Ultimately, shortcomings in my own life with regards to submissions sparked this fire.

What do you hope this book accomplishes?

My hope and prayer is that Christians nationwide will be challenged to step into a realm of Scriptural obedience that will spark revival!

Did you learn anything (or did God show you anything) as you were writing?

I certainly experienced moments where I was convicted about the level of submission I lived under. God revealed to me the importance of denying any and all voices that seek to lure us from His presence. Submission to Him will position us for spiritual greatness!

Do you believe people struggle with the idea of "submission"? If so, why?

Yes, we all struggle with the idea of full submission. It means releasing our control and desires to the Lord. When we do not feel in control, it creates an emotion of insecurity. This insecurity is what makes us resists submission on many levels. When it comes to submitting to our Lord Jesus, we must reject these emotions, and faithfully surrender our lives.

Your subtitle mentions obeying only God's voice. What are some ways people can hear God's voice?

God desires to interact with us in ways we could never imagine. The Holy Spirit is very much alive and active, but the question is, will we allow ourselves to get in position to hear Him. He speaks through the Scriptures, His written word. He speaks to our hearts as we intimately seek Him daily through prayer and fasting. He can speak through people and situations around us. God is not limited to anything and can therefore speak any way He chooses. The only real issue is that which restricts and hinders us from hearing.

"My thanks to Zeke for being my guest today."

To learn more about Zeke and his ministry, visit his website at http://submisssionministries.org

To purchase subMISSION: Heeding Only His Voice:

AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=SUBMISSION+Zeke+Lam&x=13&y=20

WORD FOR 2012

2012-01-15T03:00:00.001-05:00

It's January 15 - already. Where does the time go? By now, every blogger has posted their New Year's resolutions and their goals for 2012. Some have probably even posted about how they've already broken at least one or all of their resolutions. That's why I don't make New Year's resolutions - I know in all probability, sooner or later, I will break the resolution.

Instead of making resolutions, I pray and ask God to give me a "word" for the upcoming year. I first heard of this practice a few years ago and thought it sounded like a good idea. So I'd pray, ask God for a word for the next year and go on my merry way, never really thinking about the word and how it could apply to my life at that time.(Just being honest here, gang.) Until this year.

What makes this year different?

Christmas morning, my husband, Dave, wished me a Merry Christmas and then he said, "Not only is today the celebration of the birth of Christ, but it is also a day of rebirth for us." Rebirth.

Most of you know that 2011 wasn't the best year of Dave's life because he was sick from the latter part of 2010, all of 2011 and some problems have continued into 2012. Over the next few days, as I thought about what Dave said, I realized that was God's word for me--for Dave and me--for 2012. And I found it significant that God gave the word to Dave. (More about that in another blog.)

Rebirth. Renaissance. Regeneration. Renewal. Revival. Resurrection. New Start. New Beginning. Resurgence.

2012: The Year of Rebirth. I like that.

WE HAVE A WINNER!!

2012-01-11T07:00:00.000-05:00

DRUM ROLL PLEASE.......

WE HAVE A WINNER!!

CONGRATULATIONS TO

LAURALEE BLISS

WHO WON A COPY OF

"THE MERCHANT'S DAUGHTER"

If you were not the winner, here's a link to purchase

"The Merchant's Daughter:

http://www.amazon.com/Merchants-Daughter-Melanie-Dickerson/dp/0310727618/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1326282986&sr=1-1

Kindle Edition: $8.99

Printed Edition: $9.99

(Let's face it: in these days of high prices, this is a good deal!)

Book Review of The Merchant's Daughter

2012-01-02T03:00:00.003-05:00

I adored this book! And lovers of historical fiction will adore it as well. It is obvious that Ms. Dickerson committed hours of research to the historical time and setting because the reader is immediately transported to the mid-1300’s in Glynval, England. Annabel Chapman, the heroine, will capture your heart with her sweet spirit, her quiet beauty and her earnest desire to read through the Holy Scriptures, learning as much as she can. The hero, Lord Ranulf le Wyse will induce sympathy in the reader as he has been wounded physically; however, his emotional wounds are far more damaging. As Annabel and Lord Ranulf grow closer together, they grow spiritually, also, realizing that God truly loves them and wants only the best for them.

The Merchant’s Daughter is captivating and on a scale of 1-10, I give it a 12.

This is a book that you will want to add to your 2012 reading list. To help you with that, I have a copy I will be giving away in a drawing. Leave a comment telling me your favorite genre, and your email address and you will be entered for the drawing. Please don’t forget the email address – no email address – no entry into drawing. Drawing will be held onWednesday, January 11. Contest is limited to the US and void where prohibited.

This book was given to me by the publisher for the sole purpose of review. The opinions expressed herein are strictly this writer’s and in no way reflect the opinions of Zondervan Publishing, its employees or the author.

Volunteering

2011-12-26T08:13:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the
Delta Military Lounge

I’ve always believed that “it is better to give than to receive,” and I have always wanted to help people in some way, especially at Christmas. Some years, my family and I have given money to a family who is in need, some years we’ve given food for food baskets, and at least once during the season, money is dropped into the Salvation Army’s bucket.

But this year, I wanted to do something tangible—not to be seen by others, but something that required a little more of me than just writing a check or dropping a couple of ones into a bucket.

This year is the 42^nd year Delta Air Lines has sponsored the Delta Air Lines Military Lounge for all military personnel, active and retired, who were passing through Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta. My daughter is a Delta employee and has volunteered in the lounge for the last several years. This year, I decided to join her.

Amy, Pam & Holly -
three of the many Delta Volunteers

The Military Lounge was set up in a large conference room in the airport. It was decorated with all things military. There were military coins that had been left by Navy, Army, Air Force and Coast Guard personnel arranged in a glass case. Military plates hung on the wall; even the Christmas tree was decorated with military ornaments.

Movies were played back to back on the screen for the personnel’s enjoyment and Wi-Fi was free. And the food . . . I’ve never seen so much food in one place in my life, almost all of it donated by Delta employees, the rest by other corporate sponsors. The Lounge is staffed by Delta employees who volunteer their off-duty time, and by friends and family members of the employees. It is an amazing thing to see – many of the approximately 6,000 employees in Atlanta, come together for the single purpose of honoring the men and women of the Armed Forces and I was delighted to offer my small service along side these fantastic people.

The true stars of this program are, of course, the military personnel who stop by the lounge for a few minutes or a few hours, waiting for their next flight. In 2010, there were over 11,000 military personnel who visited the lounge; this year, Delta expects over 15,000 by January 4^th, the last day the lounge will be open for this holiday season.

Wednesday, December 14, was graduation day at Fort Benning, Georgia and it was the first night I served. Many of the graduates and their families were in the lounge that night. Those young men (and I emphasize “young”) were so proud—proud to be graduates, proud to wear their uniform, proud to be a member of the Army. They were so respectful and polite, always answering “yes, ma’am” or “thank you, ma’am.” And they were very grateful for everything the lounge offered and the kind words and the sincere “thank you” offered by the volunteers. These young men were still innocent—not having been to a war-torn country, or participated in a battle.

On the other end of the spectrum, older, experienced active personnel and retired military personnel, sometimes with families, stopped by the lounge on the way to their next destination. They were just as respectful and polite as the young graduates. But there was a major difference. Many of these men and women had seen action—had been in the midst of battles and wars and had seen unspeakable things. For some, it showed in their posture and in their eyes. Yet, their pride in serving their country showed above all else.

These young men and women and the veterans should be our heroes and our children’s heroes. Not the actors and actresses or the sports figures who are “popular” today and not heard of tomorrow. Not the hip-hop stars or the reality TV stars, but the reality of these men and women who are willing to give up their life, if need be, for our freedom and safety.

Let me encourage you to take a few seconds and say “Thank You” anytime you see someone in a military uniform. They deserve our thanks and our respect, because they have volunteered to serve our country – to serve us – in this manner. They deserve our prayers—that every single man and woman would return home safely. May God bless each and every one of our military and may God bless America.

Christmas Day: The Gift of Himself

2011-12-25T03:00:00.003-05:00

Good Morning and Merry Christmas! I understand with the dawning of Christmas Day, Advent has ended. And yet, the priceless gift, given for all, comes to us in a baby . . .

Luke 2 (New King James Version)

Christ Born of Mary

And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

Glory in the Highest

   Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:
      “ Glory to God in the highest,
      And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely^[^d^] known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.”

The beginning of our Savior’s life. His life begins humbly, in lowly surroundings. But His beginning did not stop in from doing anything that God had sent him to earth to do. He answered the call on His life.

What about you? What about me? Have we allowed our beginnings and our history to keep us from answering God’s call? If so, it’s not too late. He remains at the door, knocking. All we have to do is answer, by opening the door.

Abba Father, You have given your most precious, your greatest gift—Your son. He willingly came to earth and was born in a manger in a stable. What a humble beginning for the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. At the end of His life, He was victorious over all. May we, your sons and daughters, not look at our beginning or our history or even where we are today, but look to You and answer Your call. In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, I pray, AMEN and AMEN.

Christmas Eve: The Gift of His Presence

2011-12-24T03:00:00.000-05:00

The Gift of His Presence

Today is Christmas Eve and our Advent gift is the gift of His presence. What a marvelous gift! His presence surrounds us, envelops us. The Bible says in Psalm 139 that there is nowhere we can go to get away from His presence.

Where can I go from Your Spirit?
Or where can I flee from Your presence?
If I ascend into heaven, You are there;
If I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there.

If I take the wings of the morning,
And dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,
Even there Your hand shall lead me,
And Your right hand shall hold me. (emphasis mine)

Every step we take, He takes with us. Everywhere we go, everything we do, He is there. He is aware of every breath we take. He knows our thoughts. He sees our tears and hears our laughter. He knows our heart’s desires. He understands our longings and frustrations. He rejoices when we rejoice and He weeps when we weep.

God is omnipresent, and His presence is always with us and yet we continue to long for an encounter with the Presence of God. We need to experience the presence of God, we need to realize His presence.

“Practice His Presence” authored by LeeAnn Payne, is about exactly what the title says – practicing the presence of God. One would think, as Christians, we would be aware of His presence and not have to “practice” having Him present. But that is usually not the case. We get so busy – so involved in the task of the moment – that we forget His presence. He is always here with me and with you.

"There is not in the world a kind of life more sweet and delightful, than that of a continual conversation with God. Those only can comprehend it who practice and experience it." ... Brother Lawrence

Abba Father, thank You for the gift of Your presence. Help us to always be aware of Your presence and to walk in it. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Day Twenty Seven: The Gift of Worship

2011-12-23T03:00:00.001-05:00

Psalm 29:2 Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness.

Psalm 100:2 Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.

There are hundreds of verses encouraging believers to worship. Almost all of the chapters in the book of Psalms are praise and worship chapters. It is one thing that I do not have to be encouraged to do. I love to worship. I love worship music. I have worship music playing now as I write this blog.

The Westminster Catechism states: “What is the chief end of man? Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.” One way we glorify God is through our worship music and one way we enjoy Him is through our worship. When we worship, whether privately or corporately, we are entering into the presence of the Holy One of Israel. The Almighty God who created the heavens and the earth. The King of Kings and Lord of Lords. How can we not help but worship the God who created us and who loves us so much that He gave His only Son to die on the cross for our sins that we might spend eternity with Him?

When we worship, we are reminded of the awesomeness of God. We are reminded of His goodness, His love for us and of His blessings. We are able to thank Him for these blessings. We are able to tell Him how much we love Him. Many times, in our worship, Father God will speak to us—through the music, the words of the song and through His gentle whispers to our hearts and minds.

Worship music is beautiful and our Father’s heart is blessed to hear our voices lifted in worship. Even if we “can’t carry a tune in a bucket” as the old saying goes, we can still worship. The Bible says “Make a joyful noise” – it doesn’t say “sing a song in a perfect tune!” As we lift our hands in praise and bow our hearts in worship, we move even closer to the worship that is continually going on in Heaven. Psalm 63:4-5: “I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you.”

I have realized worship lifts my spirits when I’m down. It energizes me when I’m tired. Worship makes me feel better when I’m ill. However, this is not why I worship. I worship because I am so in love with my Abba Father. And the best way I know how to tell Him is through worship.

If you have never truly entered into worship, I encourage you to do so. Put a worship CD on at home and let yourself go in the music. Listen to the words of the songs. Let the music flood your heart, your mind, your soul. Tell Father God how much you love Him and listen as He answers you back. You will be so edified, so blessed, that worship will soon become a part of your daily life.

Father God, thank you for worship, for beautiful music and words. Thank you for times of private worship and times of corporate worship. May our lives be an act of worship unto You. May we constantly live in an attitude of worship. May our worship be a sweet smelling savor to You, O God. I love you Abba Father. You are my King, my Lord, My Bridegroom. Amen.

Day Twenty Six: The Gift of His Word

2011-12-22T03:00:00.005-05:00

John 1:1-2: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. ²He was with God in the beginning.

When I opened today’s gift, it was the gift of God’s Word. What a treasure chest – many gifts all in one place! He gave us:

· The story of Creation

· Recounting of the Israelites journey

· The Leaders/Judges

· The story of King David

· The beautiful Psalms

· The wise Proverbs of Solomon

· The story of Esther

· The trials of Job

· The love story between Christ and His Church – Song of Solomon

· The Prophets

· The story of Jesus, found in the four Gospels

· The visitation of the Holy Spirit

· Paul’s letters to the churches

· The letters of Peter, John and Jude

· The book of Revelation that reveals Jesus to the world in the final days

These are only a few of the treasures found in God’s Word! Every time we “discover” a treasure, we find there are more jewels hidden within that treasure. All we need to know, every answer we seek, is found in His Word.

Dear Father, thank you seems very inadequate for the gift of Your Word. We am thankful for the lessons found therein and the new revelation You give to us every time we study Your Word. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.

Day Twenty Five: A Sacrifice in His Birth by Joy McGee

2011-12-21T03:00:00.006-05:00

I am delighted to have Ms. Joy McGee as my guest blogger today. God has blessed Joy with spiritual insight and wisdom that she uses to bless others. Enjoy this beautiful and moving blog.

A Sacrifice in His Birth

Joy McGee

²⁶ In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, ²⁷ to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. ²⁸ The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.”

²⁹ Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. ³⁰ But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. ³¹You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. ³² He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, ³³ and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”

³⁴ “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?”

³⁵ The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called^[^a^] the Son of God. ³⁶ Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. ³⁷ For no word from God will ever fail.”

³⁸ “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her. (Luke 1: 26-38)

This Christmas season has me more drawn to the birth of Christ, I am sad to say, than any years before and more so, with this passage in particular. We often concentrate on Mary and commend her response to the Lord as she takes on this amazingly huge responsibility. The possibilities are endless as to what could happen to her as an unwed pregnant young girl who is engaged but nevertheless, she seems honored to be given this cup to drink. But I ask, if only for a moment, to look at the supernatural and the possibilities that could have taken place in the heavens at this very same moment. I see it happening something like this:

"Gabriel's words to Mary echoed through the heavens as the most crucial of conversations between man and angel occurred. What would Mary say? How would this young woman react? The Holy Trinity already knew the outcome as the angels hung on every word. The Father, looking over at the Son, can already feel His heart being pulled as the separation will soon occur. "Are you ready, Son?" With a smile and a nod, the Christ answered the Father. With his large, gentle hand, The Father reaches over and pulls the Son in for one last tangible hug before The Son leaves his right side for the very first time. The Son is about to enter into the world through the womb of a virgin. He is about to leave the throne of His Kingdom to be born to the very poor family of a carpenter. His head will rest upon hay in his first days and will be crowned in thorns during his last. His earthly mother will cradle him as he enters her world as well as when he leaves it. He will experience every emotion, every temptation, every fear and every feeling that comes with being sinned against, and yet He still agrees to come . . . He still agrees to come.

And then Mary speaks, "May your word to me be fulfilled." And like that . . . It's done. The Son has left. He is now Son and man. The angels roar with rejoicing and The Father leaps with glee. The world is being reconciled to Him.

So during the season of Advent, as we prepare for the coming of the Lord, let us be gracious for his sacrifice, even at his birth. What an amazing God we serve!

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Day Twenty Four: The Gift of Silver

2011-12-20T03:00:00.001-05:00

“He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.” (Malachi 3:3)

Yesterday, I wrote about the “Gift of Trials.” As I wrote it, I remembered the above verse and a story I read long ago.

“He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.” (Malachi 3:3) This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study and they wondered what this statement meant about the character of God.

One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and share her findings at the next Bible study.

That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn’t mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining silver.

As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one need to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities.

The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot – then she thought again about Malachi 3:3 “He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver.”

She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined.

The man answered yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.

The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, “How do you know when the silver is fully refined?” He smiled at her and answered, “Oh, that’s easy – when I see my image in it.”

If today, you are feeling the heat of the fire, remember that God holds you in His hands, watching you until He sees His image in you.”

Steve Green recorded a song about the Refiner’s fire that explains it far better than I ever could:

The Refiner's Fire

There burns a fire with sacred heat
White hot with holy flame
And all who dare pass through its blaze
Will not emerge the same
Some as bronze, and some as silver
Some as gold, then with great skill
All are hammered by their sufferings
On the anvil of His will

Chorus: The Refiner's fire
Has now become my soul’s desire
Purged and cleansed and purified
That the Lord be glorified
He is consuming my soul
Refining me, making me whole
No matter what I may lose
I choose the Refiner's fire

I'm learning now to trust His touch
To crave the fire's embrace
For though my past with sin was etched
His mercies did erase
Each time His purging cleanses deeper
I'm not sure that I'll survive
Yet the strength in growing weaker
Keeps my hungry soul alive

Chorus

Words and music by Jon Mohr and Randall Dennis
Copyright 1989 Birdwing Music/Jonathan Mark Music (admin. by Gaither copyright management)/J.R. Dennis Music. All rights reserved. International copyright secured. Used by permission.

Father God, thank you for the Refiner’s fire. Help us to trust you, knowing that You hold us in your hands as we go through the Refiner’s fire. Amen.

Day Twenty Three: The Gift of Trials

2011-12-19T03:00:00.001-05:00

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (James 1:2-4)

Just in case anyone thinks this verse is not written to them as a believer, the footnote in the New International Version says: “James 1:2 The Greek word for brothers and sisters (adelphoi) refers here to believers, both men and women, as part of God’s family.”

Nowhere in the Bible does it say that Christians will not suffer. In fact, it is something we should expect and for which we should be prepared. Please don’t misunderstand me – I’m not saying we should walk around in fear, waiting for something bad to happen. But I am saying we should not bury our heads in the sand, thinking because we are Christians, all the trials and tribulations of this life will pass us by. No, in fact the above Scripture tells us just the opposite. We will face trials and we should consider it joy.

In The Message, these verses are even more specific: “Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don't try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.”

“He’s kidding, right? I am to consider trials a gift?” Surely the author of The Message, Eugene Peterson, totally messed up that interpretation. But when we receive a gift, isn’t it usually a time of joy, such as Christmas or birthday?

“My faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors.” Ouch. Now he’s getting too personal. Yet, how many times in my life have I gone through a trial, kicking and screaming all the way? How many times, rather than standing in faith, have I stomped my feet and pitched a fit, like a two year old who can’t have her way? Instead of letting my faith “do the talking” how often have I questioned, “Why me?” “Why us?” More times than I care to admit.

So what do I need to do about these past trials where I’ve failed so miserably to “consider it a sheer gift?” I repent, asking for God’s forgiveness. And if my kicking and screaming and stomping my feet affected others around me (and don’t think it didn’t), I ask for their forgiveness also.

Then I must make sure that I am prepared for the next trials. And that’s not a typo – trials. Because there will always be more than one. Here’s how I prepare:

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. (Ephesians 6:13-18) (emphasis mine)

As Christians, none of us can control what trials come our way, or when they come. But we can react with joy, “considering it to be a gift.”

“Abba Father, thank you for the gift of trials and for the faith and perseverance those trials produce. Help me to always have on my armor and be prepared when trials come my way. Thank you, Father. Amen

Day Twenty two: The Gift of Administration

2011-12-18T03:00:00.003-05:00

The Gift of Administration

1 Corinthians 12:28
And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, also those having gifts of healing, those able to help others, those with gifts of administration, and those speaking in different kinds of tongues.

Years ago, I wondered why God created the gift of administration. I considered it one of the “lesser” gifts – not that there is such a thing. I asked God one day why He created the gift of administration and He quickly showed me that He is a God of Order. When He created the world and all that is within, He did it in an orderly fashion. On the first day, He created light and dark. On the second day, He created the sky, separating the water from the sky. On the third day, He created the land. He didn’t create light one day and go back three or four days later and create dark. There was organization and order to what He did. Okay – I got it – and once I got it, He showed me that what I had assumed I had learned over the years of being in the administration field, wasn’t the case at all. He had given me the gift of administration. To the extreme. I write that, not to brag at all, but to say that I can drive people nuts (and have done so) because I am so organized. I make lists for everything. I sometimes jokingly say I need a list of the current running lists I have!

This gift has been and is truly a blessing. It has opened doors for promotion in my career that I probably would not have gotten without this gift. It has saved my job countless times as various bosses run out the door, yelling, “where’s the…..” and I find the requested item and hand it to him/her before apoplexy starts. And the gift has helped keep me on track personally. Just don’t come to my house and look in my closets – the gift of administration stops at all my closet doors and refuses to go in!! J

How has the gift of administration helped me spiritually? I have served in numerous volunteer positions in churches over the years and I have used this gift in many of those positions, especially in teaching and in committee work.

I have served as a Church Business Administrator for over fifteen years at two different churches. Many people do not want to think of the church as a “business” and I totally agree with their viewpoint. A church is a ministry, but there is a business aspect to it. After all, if there is not someone to make sure the power bill gets paid, the ministry will cease to function very quickly. But the gift is also used in other aspects of the church office. Countless numbers of times I have been used to talk to people who are in need of encouragement, who need prayer, who need someone to listen. I have been humbled and honored to be the one to talk and pray with them. How does administration play into that? It allows me to adjust my schedule to help these people, which is what I love to do.

I am also a Christian counselor and have had the opportunity to counsel a number of people on being organized and time management. If a person’s lack of organization prevents them, for whatever reason, from doing what God has called them to do, then that is an aspect of their life that they should work on improving so they can do the things God has for them to do.

So the gift I thought of as a “lesser” gift has and continues to play an important role in my life. I love every aspect of administration and I am grateful to God for blessing me with this gift.

Has God gifted you with the gift of administration? If so, are you using it to His glory? If not, and you desire to be more organized, pray and ask for the gift of administration. Before you know it, you just might be making lists, too!

Father God, Your gifts are beyond measure! How awesome it is that You know the very gifts we need and You bestow those gifts upon us! Thank you, Abba Father. May we never take any gift for granted, but use them to bring You honor and glory! AMEN!!

Day Twentyone: The Gift of Family and Friends

2011-12-17T03:00:00.000-05:00

The Gift of Family and Friends

“…but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Proverbs 24b

God has gifted me today with a wonderful family and great friends. If you have read my past blogs, you probably read about my family. I am married to my soul mate and best friend, Dave. I have two wonderful adult children, Kim and Kyle and a fantabulous (my new word I created: a combination of “fantastic” and “fabulous”) grandson, Mackenzie. I am blessed that my parents are still living and I have one sister who I love dearly. There are also “family” members who, although not related by blood, they are still precious family to me.

God has blessed me with many faithful friends throughout the years. (There is not enough space to write about all of them and to avoid offending anyone, I have left out the names of the two that I mention.) I have one friend with whom I grew up. Our parents were best friends and she and I have been friends for as long as I can remember. We don’t get to spend as much time together as I would like, but when we get together, it’s as if we had seen each other the day before.

Another friend is a strong and mighty prayer warrior. I know that I can call her any time – day or night – and she will drop what she is doing and pray with me over the phone. She has a delightful laugh that cheers me instantly when I hear it!

I have a number of “online” friends through the American Christian Fiction Writers group. I had the pleasure of meeting some of these writers in September at the ACFW Conference and they are just as sweet sincere in their desire to help in person as they are online. These men and women will take time out of their incredibly busy schedule to answer questions, give advice, and/or encouragement when needed. Many of them are successful, published authors who made a commitment to help those of us who are just getting started. And they keep their commitment every day.

I belong to a group of writers, Christian Writers United, in the county where I live. This group started in November, 2008, so we are just a little over two years old. Some of the original members left and some new members joined and we have become a cohesive family. The members in this group are exhorters and no one puts him/herself above anyone else in the group. We are there to encourage and support one another.

I saved my very best friend for last. There really is a “Friend who sticks closer than a brother” and his name is Jesus. We are all human and as hard as we may try to not fail our friends, there will be times when we do. It’s the nature of the beast. This Friend, however, will never fail us. He will never leave us or forsake us. He is available 24/7/365. He loves us unconditionally, extravagantly, recklessly. If you do not know Jesus as your Savior and Best Friend, find a Bible and read Romans 10:8-13. Pray and ask Jesus to be your Savior and Best Friend. It will be a friendship for eternity.

Abba Father, thank you for being the Friend that is closer than a brother. I pray that if anyone reads this devotional and does not know you as their Savior, that they will read Romans 10:8-13 and will pray to receive You into their heart. I pray that You will bring Christian friends into their lives to help them as they begin their friendship with You. I ask your blessings on my family and friends and on the families and friends of everyone who reads this devotional. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Day Twenty: The Gift of Freedom

2011-12-16T03:00:00.000-05:00

The Gift of Freedom

My present today was the gift of freedom. When we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior, he sets us free from the bondage of sin. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. (John 8:36) Once saved, our lives are no longer tangled up in sin and shame.

The Bible says that where the Spirit of the Lord is present, there is freedom. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. (II Cor. 3:17) This is so true. Have you ever been in a worship service or even been worshipping by yourself, and you knew the Spirit of the Lord was present? You felt completely free during that time to worship uninhibitedly, freely.

We are given the freedom to approach God. In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. (Eph. 3:12) We don’t have to build up our courage, or wait until we think the timing is right. We don’t have to wait for an invitation. We have the freedom to approach God any time – day or night.

The freedoms that I mentioned fall into a category that I call spiritual freedoms.

There are also freedoms that I call secular freedoms. These are freedoms that allow us to express our beliefs publically. We have the freedom to worship where we please, when we please and how we please. We do not have to hide our Bibles, much less our faith. We are free to witness to others anytime. We have the right to assemble together in church buildings and storefront buildings and borrowed locations all over America. My concern is that these freedoms are in grave danger. Other religions in America are being given preferential treatment while Christianity is being choked out of existence. We as Christians need to stand up for our rights and not have the defeatist attitude that seems to have overtaken so many. I, for one, love my freedom to worship publically and do not want to lose it.

Father God, I pray that you will give us the courage to stand up for our rights as Christians. I pray that You will show us when to act, what to do and what to say. I ask that You stir the hearts of all Christians that we might stand united as one for our religious freedoms. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Day Nineteen: The Gift of Contentment

2011-12-15T03:00:00.000-05:00

The Gift of Contentment

“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.” (Philippians 4:11-12)

The Apostle Paul wrote these verses as he sat in a dirty, foul-smelling Roman prison. Yet, he was truly content. Had that been me, I’m sure I would have been screaming – furious at the lack of cleanliness, furious at the circumstances, furious at the unfairness of it all.

Still, I have experienced times of true contentment. I have realized that these times of true contentment are when I have listened and been obedient to what God has told me to do. Or the times when I have relinquished to God a problem I’ve been wrestling with and I’ve left that problem with Him to solve. I’ve completely let go of worrying about it, of trying to “fix it” and left it in Jesus’ most capable hands to resolve it as He sees fit. That is very hard for me to do – I’m such a fixer – I want to fix everything. And I’m impatient too. I want to fix it and I want to fix it NOW! So in addition to giving that problem to God, I have to be content with His timetable – not mine. It’s not easy, but I’m learning. One thing I do know – God’s solutions are always more satisfactory than mine would ever be and the contentment is much sweeter than when I try to fix the problem. In fact, there is no contentment when I try to fix the situation.

My commitment is to learn to live in true contentment all the time. It should be easy. All I have to do is unfurl this fist that is tightly woven around this problem…..

Father, I ask in the name of Jesus, that You would help us let go of the problems that would prevent us from being content. I pray that You would enable us to leave those problems in Your hands, knowing that Your solutions are always for the best. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Day Eighteen: The Gift of Time

2011-12-14T03:00:00.000-05:00

The Gift of Time

In the busiest season of the year, who could not use a gift of more time in the day? I certainly could! Instead of 24 hours, could I have 30? Here’s the thing: if I had 30, I’d need (or at least think I’d need) 35 hours in a day. Just like a suitcase that is bulging at the seams, I can always pack more “stuff” into my schedule. Do you think God had me (and you other “A type” personalities) in mind when He assigned only 24 hours to each day? Maybe He doesn’t want us to cram as much as we possibly can into each day. Interesting thought…

If God doesn’t want us to fill our day completely with our “to-do” list, what does He want us to do with the gift of time He has given each of us?

Some time ago, I wrote a blog on what God wants me to do each day. The premise of the blog was to ask God every morning what He wanted me to do that day. I would listen, and whatever He told me to do, I would do it to the best of my ability with His help. Some days, there would not be a specific answer from God. However, there are things God expects us to do every day without having to be told: to be His light in the world; to be Jesus to everyone we meet throughout the day; help those in need, to the best of our ability; to “pray without ceasing.” (I Thess. 5:17)

There is also this little word “priorities.” I fully believe that God is a God of order and priorities. He showed us this in the book of Genesis, when He created the world. Each day, God created specific things—light, sky, land, birds, creatures of the sea, animals, man and woman. There was an order to everything He did and there is still an order to His work today. So what are our priorities for each day? Obviously, mine will not look like yours, and yours will not look like mine. Yet, there should be a few priorities that are the same. We should all have our Bible reading and prayer time as one of the top priorities on our schedule. If we don’t, we need to re-do our schedule. I realize that some people cannot have their Bible reading and prayer time early in the morning because of their work schedule or other obligations. But those two activities need to be on our schedules.

No matter what our schedules look like—if we have a job outside the home, if we are stay-at-home moms whose schedule is even busier than those who work outside the home, if we are the breadwinner, a single mom, a widow or widower, it makes no difference. God expects us to use our time wisely. After all, He gave us the gift of time. Should we not use it the way He desires us to use it?

Father God, thank You for the gift of time. Thank You that, in Your wisdom, You only gave us twenty-four hours a day. Every day, but especially during this season, help each one of us to use our days to do what You would have us to do. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.

Day Seventeen: The Gift of Truth

2011-12-13T08:20:00.000-05:00

The Gift of Truth

John 8:32: Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

In order to understand how truth sets us free, we must first look at how not knowing the truth keeps us bound.

What people perceive to be the truth is truth to them. Whether or not it’s really truth has nothing to do with what they believe. Their perception—about themselves, others, any situation—is truth to them. For example, when a woman looks in the mirror and tells herself, “You’re fat, you’re disgusting, no one can love you if you look like this,” that is truth to her, even if she weighs one hundred pounds and is five feet, six inches. Because she believes what she says, it is truth to her.

Another example is the person who tells themselves that God doesn’t love him or her. “I know He loves others, but not me. I’ve done too many bad things for Him to love me.” Until the real truth is revealed to this person, and they come to know and believe that God truly does love them, he or she will believe that He doesn’t love them and that will be his or her truth.

Where do we find the truth? The same place we find all of the answers to our questions and challenges. We find truth in the Bible. As we search the Scriptures, God reveals the truth to the answers we seek. When we pray and listen to God, He will speak to us, providing us with the answers we need. And as we sit in His presence, He will pour out His love into our hearts and lives, showing us how much He adores us.

God will also reveal Himself and His truth in the sacrament of the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. We “celebrate the Eucharist” or as some denominations call it “take communion.” Whatever your denomination calls it, it is a time of remembrance and reflection, and listening to God as He may speak to you during this time.

My prayer for you during this Advent Season is that “you will know the truth and the truth will set you free!”

Father God, I ask in the name of Jesus that You reveal the truth to each one who is searching today. Whether they are searching for truth about themselves, others or a situation they find themselves in, I pray that You will reveal the truth to them, giving them Your wisdom and guidance. In Jesus’ name I pray, AMEN.

Day Sixteen: The Gift of Provision

2011-12-12T03:00:00.001-05:00

THE GIFT OF PROVISION

John 10:10
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it more abundantly.

The gift I opened this morning is the gift of provision. As the Scripture states in John 10:10, Jesus has come that we may have an abundant life. Many people interpret this verse to mean that Jesus came to give us eternal life in heaven if we receive him as Savior. That is true – and it will be a glorious eternity! But I also believe it means that we can have an abundant life on earth. God wants to bless his people here as a testimony to His love for us and to His greatness.

Philippians 4:19
But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (NIV)

You can be sure that God will take care of everything you need, his generosity exceeding even yours in the glory that pours from Jesus. (The Message)

God is in the business of meeting our needs!

Psalm 138:8

The LORD will perfect that which concerns me.(KJV)

Our needs, wants and concerns make up a part of our lives. But God plainly states that He will supply our needs and He will perfect – “take care of” – those things that concern us. Again, He does this because He loves us and wants to bless us and so that the testimony of praise will be given to Him and not to a person.

This is not to say that the Christian life is free of heartache and trials. If you’ve lived any length of time, you know this. But God still provides what we need because He walks with us through those trials and heartaches. He will lead us, guide our steps and grow us as He teaches us spiritual truths during those times. And He never stops loving us and He never leaves us or forsakes us.

God is concerned with everything we are concerned about; He is concerned with every aspect of our lives. And He will provide all that we need—in good times and in difficult times.

Abba Father, Thank You that You love us so much that our concerns are Your concerns. Thank You that You are the Giver of Life and that You give us life more abundantly. May we never take that life for granted! In Jesus’ name, AMEN.

Day Fifteen: The Gift of Protection

2011-12-11T03:00:00.002-05:00

THE GIFT OF PROTECTION

Psalm 91

1 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High

will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress,

my God, in whom I trust.”

3 Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare
and from the deadly pestilence.

4 He will cover you with his feathers,

and under his wings you will find refuge;
his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.

5 You will not fear the terror of night,

nor the arrow that flies by day,

6 nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness,

nor the plague that destroys at midday.

7 A thousand may fall at your side,

ten thousand at your right hand,
but it will not come near you.

8 You will only observe with your eyes

and see the punishment of the wicked.

9 If you make the Most High your dwelling—
even the Lord, who is my refuge—

10 then no harm will befall you,

no disaster will come near your tent.

11 For he will command his angels concerning you

to guard you in all your ways;

12 they will lift you up in their hands,

so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.

13 You will tread upon the lion and the cobra;

you will trample the great lion and the serpent.

14 “Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him;
I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.

15 He will call upon me, and I will answer him;

I will be with him in trouble,
I will deliver him and honor him.

16 With long life will I satisfy him

and show him my salvation.”

Psalm 91 is the protection chapter of the Bible. In fact, at one time, there was a saying to the effect of Psalm 91:1 is the 911 call of Christians. It could be said that the 91^st chapter is our 911 call to the Lord. We are told that the Lord is our refuge and strength and that we can trust in Him. We are promised that His faithfulness will be our shield and rampart; that we can hide underneath the shadow of His wings. We are protected from the terror of night, the arrow that flies by day, the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, and the plague that destroys at midday. And the list goes on.

What this chapter says to me, is that not only are we protected from those things that are listed, but anything that concerns us. Look at verses 15-16: “He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation.” Another scripture Psalms 138:8, says that God will “perfect those things that concern us.” In other words, He will take care of all of our concerns – if we will let Him. In today’s world, there is much about which to be concerned. But God is still on the throne; He is still in charge. And He will answer our prayers and will take care of our concerns.

Father God, thank You for protecting us. Thank you for answering our prayers and for taking care of all the things that concern us. May we always be aware of Your protecting presence in our lives. We love you Abba Father. Amen

Day Fourteen: The Gift of Health

2011-12-10T08:00:00.001-05:00

The Gift of Health*

3 John 2: “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things, and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” (New King James Bible)

Isaiah 53:5 “…and by His stripes we are healed.” (New King James Bible) (emphasis mine; present tense)

Psalm 103:3 He forgives your sins—every one. He heals your diseases—every one. (The Message)

These are just three of the many verses on healing and health. We know that it is God’s will and purpose for us to live in health. So why do so many of us, me included, have health issues? When we pray for people to be healed, why aren’t they?

These are, frankly, questions that I have struggled with for a long time. I will be taking my husband to the hospital in less than two hours to have his fifth surgery in less than two years. We have prayed for him to be healed. Others have prayed for him to be healed. He has been anointed with oil and prayed over to be healed. So why hasn’t he been healed?

It is not because we don’t believe God can heal him. We do. I have seen God’s healing power work in my own life and the lives of others. We know God can heal.

I think illness is a part of life. I’m not saying we should accept it as such. We should always pray and believe for healing. What I am saying is because of the sin of Adam and Eve, evil entered the world and sickness is part of that evil. I do not believe sickness is punishment for a sin that the sick person committed! I am only saying that I believe illness is part of the evil in the world and because we live in the world, there will be times when we are sick.

Regardless of how we get sick, or why we get sick, our responsibility as Christians is to believe for healing. We should ask God to use the illness as a time to teach us things He wants us to know and make this a time for spiritual growth.

Father, I pray that you will touch each person that reads this blog today. If they are ill, I pray in the name of Jesus that You will heal them as they read this blog. Strengthen their faith in Your healing power. Help them to lean on You to meet all of their needs, Thank you Father for loving us so much You desire for us to live full and healthy lives here on earth. AMEN.

*Written December 14, 2009

Day Thirdteen: The Gift of Service

2011-12-09T03:00:00.003-05:00

The Gift of Service

I Corinthians 12:4-5 There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord.

Dictionary.com defines service as “an act of helpful activity; help; aid: to do someone a service.” Another definition listed is “the serving of God by obedience, piety, etc.: voluntary service.” If we combine these two definitions to develop a “spiritual” definition, it might look something like this: The activity of obeying God’s command to serve others.

Matthew 35:25-40 “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.

"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'

“The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' “

As it says in I Corinthians 12, there are different kinds of service. Many people have been given the serving gift of hospitality. Not only can they whip up a gourmet meal to take to someone who’s just gotten home from the hospital, they will also open their home for indefinite periods of time to host missionaries, evangelists and those who are displaced. When it comes to hospitality, unexpected guests for dinner, or guests who stay for months, do not rattle them. There is nothing related to hospitality this group of people can’t do. It is a special gift and calling with which God has blessed them.

There is also the serving gift of helps. By “helps” I mean helping in ways that those being helped cannot do. For example, repairs to items in the home, or the house itself, or car repairs. Some people help by running errands, driving those who can’t drive to the doctor or grocery store. The serving gift of helps is an extremely important one, especially to those in need.

Many people have the serving gift of visitation. Most people probably don’t look at visitation as a gift. Have you ever known anyone who is comfortable in any situation? They can go into a stranger’s home and immediately put everyone at ease. They can visit those that mourn and know exactly what to say to bring comfort to the mourner. They can call on those in the hospital and bring cheer by their very presence. That is the serving gift of visitation.

Jesus was a servant. We don’t often look at Him that way. What we consider miracles was simply an act of service to Him. He served the people by feeding the multitude. He served His disciples by teaching them. He served the sick by healing them. Everything Jesus did during His three short years of ministry was an act of service.

He has given each of us the gift of service. Some will have the gift of helps or hospitality, as already mentioned. Others may have the gift of exhortation, or encouragement, still others may have the gift of showing mercy or the gift of teaching. All of these are used in our service to others.

What is your gift of service?

Father God, during this season of Advent, may we use these gifts that You have graciously given us to bless others. Open our eyes that we may see the opportunities to serve others. Give us courage to move forward and help when we see those opportunities. I ask that You bless everyone that we serve. In Jesus’ matchless name, AMEN.

Day Twelve: The Gift of His Passion

2011-12-08T03:00:00.002-05:00

The Gift of His Passion

Passion: intense, driving, or overmastering feeling or conviction; a strong liking or desire for or devotion to some activity, object, or concept.

passion means intense emotion, compelling action. passion applies to an emotion that is deeply stirring or ungovernable.

God is a God of passion for creativity and beauty. His passion created the world and all that is within. His passion for beauty can be seen as we behold a sunrise on an early spring morning, the colors in a field of wild flowers, the multitude of stars we can see on a clear night.

His passion for us can be found throughout the Bible.

· “Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn you and continued My faithfulness to you. (Jeremiah 31:3*)

· The Lord your God is in the midst of you, a Mighty One, a Savior [Who saves]! He will rejoice over you with joy; He will rest [in silent satisfaction] and in His love He will be silent and make no mention [of past sins, or even recall them]; He will exult over you with singing. (Zephaniah 3:17 Amplified)

· “I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine.” (Song of Solomon 6:3 New King James Bible)

· “You have ravished my heart, my sister, my bride; you have ravished my heart with one look of your eyes.” (Song of Solomon 4:9 NKJV)

Many people believe the Song of Solomon is a love story between a bridegroom and his bride. And that is true, but not in the sense that they are assuming. The Bridegroom (or the Beloved) is God and the Bride (or the Shulamite) is His Church. That’s right—you, me and all who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior. So when the verse says “You have ravished my heart, my sister, my bride, you have ravished my heart with one look of your eyes” that is God speaking to us. Can you begin to understand the extravagance of His love for you? His passion for you? With just one “look”—glance—from you to Him—you ravish His heart—you make His heart beat faster.

His passion in us brings out the creativity that He placed in us. Have you ever known a painter who does not have passion for painting? Or a musician who does not love to sing or play their instrument? It is their passion for their calling that stirs their creativity. This passion to be creative is in each of us, even those who may not know Christ as their Savior.

The most obvious example of God’s passion for us is shown when He gave His only Son to die on the cross for us. Can you imagine His pain? His anguish? The tears He shed? To watch His son die and turn His back on Him so that we might have eternal life? Can you begin to fathom the depth of His love for you? His love for you knows no beginning or end. It is eternal and unconditional.

If Christ is living in us, we have that same passion. Not that God is asking us to give our son so that the world might be saved, but to apply His passion that is in us to everything we do and say.

“How can I do that?” I can hear some of you asking. “How can I apply His passion when I hate my _______?” (You fill in the blank) Suppose you filled in the blank with “job.” The Bible says everything we do, should be done as unto the Lord. When you do your job as unto the Lord, it is easy to have passion for that job…or marriage…or life.

Father God, thank you for the gift of passion. May everything we do and say be filled with Your passion that resides in us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Day Eleven: The Gift of Compassion

2011-12-07T03:00:00.001-05:00

The Gift of Compassion

I have always said I have compassion for others. But I must confess I have sometimes added “up to a point.” When I said that statement and those listening to me would look at me rather strangely, I would attempt to clarify my remark. “You know, we should help a person only so much and then they should “be able to make it on their own.” In my arrogance, I would make this comment without knowing the full background of the person being helped.

I’m not making excuses, although I’m sure it sounds like I am, but I had become jaded. I was working as a Church Business Administrator (and still am) and part of my responsibilities was to speak with those who called or came by the church seeking financial assistance. I had seen everything – from a person living out of their dilapidated car to a person who arrived in a brand new Camero to pick up a check to assist in paying their rent.

Eventually, God got fed up with my arrogance and said to me, “Who do you think you are? You are guilty of judging these people. You do not know their circumstances, yet you presume to only have compassion ‘up to a point.’ I have unlimited compassion and if you desire to be more like Me, you must repent and allow My compassion to flow through you to others.”

Ouch. Needless to say, I was on my face, repenting and asking God to pour His compassion through me. He did forgive me and began to allow me to see others through His eyes. And what an eye-opener that was. We never know what is going on behind closed doors.

I also researched the compassion of Jesus and found that as in all situations, Jesus is no respecter of persons when it comes to compassion. Just a few references:

Mark 6:34: Compassion towards those in the multitude who were distressed and scattered abroad as sheep without a shepherd

Mark 8:2: Compassion on the multitude in general

Matthew 20:34: Compassion on the blind

Mark 9: 22, 25: Compassion on the demonized, the victims of the power of unclean spirits

Mark 1:40-41: Compassion on the leper

Luke 7:12-13: Compassion on the bereaved

There are many more scriptures but I’m sure you are beginning to see my point. He had compassion on all who needed it. He was not selective and his compassion did not go “up to a point” – it went all the way.

In this day and age, when there are so many people suffering financially, physically or emotionally, may the gift of God’s compassion flow through each of us.

Father God, help us to always see others through your eyes and to allow your compassion to flow through us out to them. Give us the words you would have us speak to these people to encourage them and edify them. In the name of Jesus, AMEN.

December, 2009

Day Ten: The Gift of His Love

2011-12-06T03:00:00.000-05:00

THE GIFT OF HIS LOVE

Jeremiah 31:3: “…I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness.”

John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son; that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

What an amazing gift! To think that Almighty God loved you and me so much that He sent His son to be born of a virgin, in the lowliest, most humble place possible – a stable, with a manger as His bed – is mind-boggling. Then God caused Him who knew no sin to become sin for us and to pay the ultimate price for us so, when we die, if we have accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we will leave our temporary home here on earth to live eternally in heaven with God and all the saints. It leaves me speechless.

Over the years, I have heard many people say “I’m sure he died for your sins, but not mine.” Or “I’m not good enough.” Or “I just don’t believe he died for me.” Or some other unbelieving remark. The Bible says “God is no respecter of persons.” In other words, if He did it for one person, He did it for all. If you had been the only living person on earth, He would have died for you.

What are some characteristics of God’s love?

• It shows no favorites. God loves us equally. He loves the sinner just as much as He loves the saint. He is no respecter of persons.

• It is unconditional. It is not based on who we are, what we do or achieve. It is not based on whether or not we deserve it. God’s love is based on the fact that He created us to be His daughters and sons. We never have to work to earn the right to be loved. No matter what we do or don’t do, say or don’t say, God loves us.

• It is boundless. There are no limitations, no constraints, no conditions that we must meet for God to love us. He loves us unreservedly. No ifs, ands, or buts. Period.

• It is extravagant. He pours out His love into our lives recklessly, extravagantly. Think of all the blessings He has given you. He did that because He loves you so. There have been times when He has saved you, or a loved one, from a catastrophe, even when you were not aware of it. God’s blessings, His protection, is in your life are because of His extravagant love.

If you, the reader, don’t get anything out of any blog this month, please understand this: GOD LOVES YOU –unconditionally, boundlessly, extravagantly.

Abba Father, how can we thank you enough for your love for us? It leaves us speechless, but still we humbly say thank you. May we always be aware of your love surrounding us. We love you Abba Father. Amen.

Day Nine: The Gift of Reconciliation

2011-12-05T03:00:00.001-05:00

THE GIFT OF RECONCILIATION

II Corinthians 5: 18-19 “But all things are of God, who reconciled us to himself through Jesus Christ, and gave to us the ministry of reconciliation; namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself, not reckoning to them their trespasses, and having committed to us the word of reconciliation.”

Acts 7:26 “The day following, he appeared to them as they fought, and urged them to be at peace again, saying, ‘Sirs, you are brothers. Why do you wrong one another?’”

One of the definitions of “reconcile” according to Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary is:

1 : to restore to friendship or harmony

Reconciliation comes as a result of forgiveness. If you missed the devotional on forgiveness, please go back to Day Eight and read that topic. You need to understand what it means to truly forgive someone before you can understand reconciliation.

God takes reconciliation seriously. So much so that he addresses it in Matthew 5:22-24: "But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be guilty before the court; and whoever says to his brother, 'You good-for-nothing,' shall be guilty before the supreme court; and whoever says, 'You fool,' shall be guilty enough to go into the fiery hell. ‘Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering. (emphasis mine).

If there is someone who has something against you, why not go to them as the Bible says and be reconciled? It doesn’t matter who started the argument. It doesn’t matter what the argument was about. It doesn’t matter where the fault lies. It will not matter six months from now. But what will matter is that you are obedient to what God’s Word says. Go back to the top of this blog and read 2 Corinthians 5:18-19 again. God loved us so much that He reconciled us to Him through His Son and does not count our trespasses against us because of that reconciliation. How can we do any less than obey Him by seeking reconciliation with the person who has something against us?

Abba Father, thank You for reconciling us to You and for giving us the ministry of reconciliation. Help us to have courage to approach those who have something against us and ask their forgiveness. We pray this in Your name, AMEN.

Day Eight: The Gift of Forgiveness

2011-12-04T03:00:00.002-05:00

THE GIFT OF FORGIVENESS

Psalm 86:5
For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.

Psalm 32:1
Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.

Today’s gift is forgiveness. One of the most precious gifts God has given us, for without forgiveness, there is no relationship with God.

I love the two verses at the top of this blog. The first verse assures us that when we go to God in prayer and repent of the sins we’ve committed, He is waiting and ready to forgive. I can almost see Him in my mind’s eye. He is standing, watching me as I kneel and He is silently encouraging me to come to Him and repent. When I do ask for His forgiveness, I see His face break out into a huge smile as He grants me forgiveness. Of course, you realize there is nothing really scriptural about what I see in my mind’s eye, but I still like to visualize it. It helps me realize how eager God truly is to forgive me.

I think the main reason God is eager to forgive me because until there is forgiveness, our relationship is not as it should be. We cannot commune together like we normally would. I am not able to praise and worship as I’d like to and I am not able to receive His ministry until that sin which stands between us is forgiven and wiped away.

There is a condition to forgiveness. Matthew 6:14-15: For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

That is really a strong statement – God will not forgive us if we do not forgive others who have sinned against us.

I can hear some of you saying, “but you don’t know how deeply wounded I am.” Yes, actually I do, because I’ve been deeply wounded. So deeply wounded that even though I knew I must forgive, it took me a very long time to forgive and mean it. The Bible says that God knows our heart – so he knew that I realized I had to forgive this person, but I wasn’t ready yet. So, He waited until I came to Him, repented of my part in that situation and He forgave me. There is, honestly, no better feeling than to be forgiven and restored to God.

If you have sin in your life today, I encourage you to go to God and ask for forgiveness. He is waiting for you.

Dear Father, I repent today of sins of omission and sins of commission and ask for your forgiveness. Thank you God. Thank you for the freedom found in forgiveness and the restoration of our relationship. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.

Mesmerizing, Moving Book

2011-12-03T18:16:00.001-05:00

I have just finished reading Yahshua's Bridge, award-winning author Sandi Rog's second book in the Iron and the Stone series. I have just returned to present day after spending days in Rome, AD 88. I witnessed unspeakable cruelty in the midst of beauty, hate eventually overcome by love and bitterness defeated by forgiveness. With brilliant descriptions of scenery and dialogue appropriate to the period, readers of Yahshua's Bridge will have no problem becoming involved in the lives of David and Alethea, their daughter, Elianna and the hero of the story, Alexander.

From the back cover:

"An amethyst stone draws him to his past. An elusive maiden draws him to his future. Alexander is born into slavery under an abusive master: a master of his own flesh and blood. . . a man he will never call father. Determined to break away from his master's hold, Alexander devises a plan to purchase his freedom. But what's he to do when he finds himself shipped off in shackles to Egypt, disappearing from the lives of everyone he knows and loves?"

Full of Biblical truths, this book centers around the message of forgiveness and salvation. I believe readers will be motivated, as I was, to examine their life for areas for which they need forgiveness. Equally as important, readers will be challenged to forgive people who they need to forgive.

Written during a time of extreme challenges, in my humble opinion, Ms. Rog has written one of the foremost historical Biblical fictions of our time. This is a book you will want to read, and read again.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book for purposes of this review. I am not being compensated for this review.

Day Seven: The Gift of Grace

2011-12-03T03:00:00.000-05:00

THE GIFT OF GRACE

When I unwrapped today’s gift, it was almost like coming home…or sitting by a peaceful stream. Even the vowel “a” has a long, soothing sound to it. But grace is much more than sounds and feelings.

God’s grace refers to the kindness of God toward the undeserving. His mercy focuses on our helplessness or our suffering, but His grace focuses on our unworthiness.

God’s grace is completely opposite to works. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. (Eph. 2:8-9) We cannot “earn” our way into heaven by doing good works. We cannot “earn” blessings by doing good works. Salvation is given to us freely because of the grace of God.

As with the other wonderful characteristics of God, His grace is boundless and never ends. But where sin increased and abounded, grace (God's unmerited favor) has surpassed it and increased the more and super abounded, (Romans 5:20, Amplified). The amount of God’s grace far exceeds the depth of our sin.

God’s grace works in us to help us grow to spiritual completeness and maturity. “The God of all grace, who hath called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, establish, strengthen and settle you. (I Peter 5:10)

My grandfather, Papa Evans, set the bar high for his children when it came to living a Christian life. Even though he died when I was ten years old, he was a great influence on my young life. His favorite hymn talked about the “marvelous grace…that exceeds our sin.” Below are the lyrics. May you be blessed with God’s grace as you read these lyrics and may you pay His grace forward to everyone you meet.

Grace Greater Than Sin

Marvelous grace of our loving Lord,
Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt!
Yonder on Calvary’s mount outpoured,
There where the blood of the Lamb was spilled.

Refrain

Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that will pardon and cleanse within;
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that is greater than all our sin.

Sin and despair, like the sea waves cold,
Threaten the soul with infinite loss;
Grace that is greater, yes, grace untold,
Points to the refuge, the mighty cross.

Refrain

Dark is the stain that we cannot hide.
What can avail to wash it away?
Look! There is flowing a crimson tide,
Brighter than snow you may be today.

Refrain

Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace,
Freely bestowed on all who believe!
You that are longing to see His face,
Will you this moment His grace receive?

Refrain

*Words: Julia H. Johnston, in Hymns Tried and True (Chicago, Illinois: The Bible Institute Colportage Association, 1911), number 2.

Abba Father, Today, I thank you for my Papa Evans who, because of the way he lived his life and the example he set, raised all of his children to live for you. And because of that, his grandchildren know you, too. Thank You for Your grace. Thank you Father that You give us Your grace so that we may have grace towards others. AMEN.

Day Six: The Gift of Mercy

2011-12-02T03:00:00.001-05:00

The Gift of His Mercy

Our God is a God of mercy and it is a recurring theme in the Bible. The Psalmist David mentions mercy at least 27 times and the majority of those times, he is asking God to show him mercy. One of the more familiar occasions when David prays for mercy is after Nathan has confronted him regarding the adultery he committed with Bathsheba. David cried out to God, “Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions.” (Psalm 51:1 NKJV) Did God extend mercy to David? Of course He did. He extends the same mercy to you and to me when we ask for it.

Not only does God extend His mercy towards us, but He also wants us to extend mercy to others. “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” (Matt. 5:7) This verse is based on the sowing and reaping principle found in Galatians 6:7b “A man reaps what he sows.” Therefore, it stands to reason that if we sow mercy, we will reap mercy.

What is mercy? Dictionary.com says it is “compassionate or kindly forbearance shown toward an offender, an enemy, or other person in one's power; compassion, pity, or benevolence.”

I’d like to take the definition even further and say that mercy is the opposite of judgment. God should have judged us for our sins and found us guilty. Rather, He showed mercy to us and pardoned us from that judgment by having Jesus die on the cross for us and for our salvation. He gives mercy to us all the time. Just think about a typical day in your life. What happened? How many times do you now see where God extended mercy to you?

In the same way that God did not judge us, we are not to judge others. "Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” The message doesn’t get much clearer than that. If we judge someone, we will be judged. But as we saw earlier, Matthew 5:7 tells us if we are merciful, then God will show us mercy. I don’t know about you, but I’d much prefer mercy.

Father God, thank you for your mercy. Thank you for extending your mercy to me when You should have been judged me. Forgive me for those times I have judged others rather than extending mercy. Help me to always extend mercy to everyone I come into contact with every day. AMEN

Day Five: The Gift of Prayer

2011-12-01T03:00:00.000-05:00

The Gift of Prayer

I consider prayer a gift from God. Some people consider it a privilege and I can see where they might get that idea. It is a privilege and honor to come into the presence of the Almighty God and talk with Him. Some people consider it an obligation. There have been times in the past when I was not where I should be spiritually, that I’ve considered it an obligation as well. But truly, it is a gift. One that we do not take advantage of—or at least I don’t—often enough.

Prayer is a gift because it allows us to come into the presence of God and communicate with Him. Prayer allows me to share my innermost thoughts, desires, and needs. But it is much more than that.

The Gifts inside of the Gift

Have you ever received a Christmas gift and opened it to find another wrapped box inside? You open that box only to find another wrapped box. You continue to do this until you get to the smallest box and there is the actual gift. I find prayer to be like this.

These “gifts within the gift” are best illustrated through what we know as The Lord’s Prayer. When the disciples asked Jesus to teach them how to pray, He gave them this prayer as a guide:

Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.

For yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

Inside this gift of prayer, we find the gift of praise and adoration. In The Lord’s Prayer, “hallowed” means sacred, holy, revered. God has done so much for me I cannot help but thank Him when I pray.

Forgiveness is a gift found through prayer. “Forgive us our debts (sins) as we also have forgiven our debtors (those who have sinned against us).” God’s forgiveness is a gift given to us as soon as we ask for forgiveness. Inside this gift of forgiveness we find that God remembers our sins no more after He forgives us. Note the caveat here: we must forgive those who have sinned against us, so that God can forgive us.

A third gift of prayer is praying for our needs and the needs of others. “Give us this day our daily bread.” There are those who feel guilty praying for their own needs. “There are so many people who are worse off than I am.” That may be true and you can certainly pray for them. But in this verse, God is telling us to pray for our needs, too.

Protection is also a gift of prayer. “Deliver us from the evil one” is praying for protection against all that the enemy of our souls might try to bring against us, our loved ones, our nation.

We find again in the last verse, praise and worship. This tells us that our praise and worship are important to God. They are sweet to His ears.

In the coming days of Advent, I will be writing more about these “gifts within the gift.” But for today, I am thankful for the gift of prayer. There is nothing more enjoyable than spending quiet time with God, communing with Him through prayer.

Oh, Abba Father, how sweet is your fellowship. How wonderful it is to spend time with You. You alone, O God, are worthy of all praise and honor. You alone are worthy of glory. During this Advent Season, may we make the time to spend with You, the Holy Child and the King of Kings. Amen.

Day Four: The Gift of His Peace

2011-11-30T03:00:00.000-05:00

The Gift of His Peace

John 14:27 NKJV: “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.”

The gift I unwrapped this morning is the gift of peace. What a wonderful gift! Who among us can’t use more peace in these days of uncertainty?

The type of peace Jesus is speaking of in John 14:27 is not a “surface” peace where everything looks great on the outside but on the inside we are a complete wreck. No, this peace takes root in our heart and flows to every aspect of our life—emotional, spiritual, mental and physical. No matter what happens, God’s peace never leaves you. It is a peace the natural mind cannot comprehend. “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and mind through Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:7 NKJV)

“You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” (Isaiah 26:3 NKJV) How do we obtain His peace? We have to get to know Him, personally and intimately. Trust must be built and you can’t build trust if you don’t spend time with God. Then we can trust Him with all of our life, realizing He knows what is best for us. Let go of that situation(s) that worries you and trust God to deal with it. He knows far better than we do what is best for each individual situation. “Let go and let God” means give Him those situations and allow Him to deal with them. His peace will immediately flood your heart, mind and soul.

When we are walking in God’s peace, what do we display to those we meet? When our family, friends and even strangers see us, there is peace and contentment on our faces. More often than not, unless they already know Jesus, the people we see will notice something “different” about us. They may not know what it is, but they will see it and they will want it.

One of my favorite hymns is ‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus.” Read the words and meditate on how trusting Him give you perfect peace.

'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus

’Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to take Him at His Word;
Just to rest upon His promise,
And to know, “Thus saith the Lord!”

Refrain:
Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him!
How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er;
Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
Oh, for grace to trust Him more!

Oh, how sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to trust His cleansing blood;
And in simple faith to plunge me
’Neath the healing, cleansing flood!

Refrain

Yes, ’tis sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just from sin and self to cease;
Just from Jesus simply taking
Life and rest, and joy and peace.

Refrain

I’m so glad I learned to trust Thee,
Precious Jesus, Savior, Friend;
And I know that Thou art with me,
Wilt be with me to the end. *

Refrain

*Words: Louisa Stead, 1882
Music: William Kirkpatrick, 1882

Abba Father, Help us to trust You with all of our life. We give you those situations that concern us this morning and we ask that You give us peace. Thank You that You stand ready to help when we ask and You are faithful to complete those things that concern us. We love you Father. Amen.

"Untangling Christmas"

2011-11-29T13:25:00.000-05:00

Does the very thought of Christmas invoke a severe case of the “Yuletide Yikes!”? Do you long for a cozy, reflective time centered on Christ, instead of a frenzied blur of holiday activities? Armed with strategies to simplify and de-stress, as well as tons of doable ideas and delicious recipes, Karen and LeAnn have put together a wonderful resource to help you feel blessed, not stressed!
This practical go-to guide will empower you to:

Evaluate your current seasonal strategies (or lack there-of!) and identify re-occurring holiday hassles.
Set up a simple Christmas Planner designed to enable you to be on top of the holidays, rather than the other way around!
Acquire fast and frugal decorating tips and creative, but simple, gift-giving ideas.
Whip up delicious holiday foods – both the “from scratch” sort dear Grandma would have made and other simple, short-cut recipes for when time is tight

You can find "Untangling Christmas" by Karen Ehman and LeAnn Rice at major bookstores or order online through www.untanglingchristmas.org. But it for yourself as a Christmas gift from you to you.

Day Three: The Gift of Purpose

2011-11-29T03:00:00.000-05:00

The Gift of Purpose

Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you…plans to give you hope and a future.”

You have a purpose in life. God did not plop you down on earth and forget about you. He knew you when you were still “in your mother’s womb” (Ps. 139:13) and He had a purpose for your life even then.

       Your eyes saw my unformed body.
       All the days ordained for me
       were written in your book
       before one of them came to be. (Ps. 139:16 NIV)

It doesn’t matter how young or how old you are, God has a purpose for you.

I remember attending a ladies’ Sunday school class many years ago when “Miss” Dottie, an elderly woman spoke up and confessed that she felt God was through with her on the earth. She believed she had completed her purpose, which she believed was to be faithful to her husband, to raise her children in a Godly home and see them succeed in life, was finished. The Senior Pastor’s wife was teaching this class and her answer applied to every woman in that room. “Your purpose in life is finished when you stand before God in heaven, and not a minute before. Just because you are of an older generation than most of us in this room does not mean your purpose is finished. Don’t put God in a box. He is not finished with you.” “Miss” Dottie lived to her mid-nineties and she became a mentor to other women – young and old. God’s purpose for her changed in her later life, but it was still His purpose and He used her to influence many women.

Mordecai told Esther in Esther 4:14 that she had been “brought to the kingdom for such a time as this.” I daresay the same statement applies to each one of us. You have been placed here for “such a time as this.”

If you know the purpose God has for you, listen to Him. He will tell you when it’s time to implement that idea. He will give you step-by-step instructions and everything you need to walk in His calling.

For many people, God has more than one purpose planned for them. Listen to Him as He shares His intentions for you.

If you don’t know the purpose(s) God has for you, ask Him and listen. At the right time, He will reveal His plans for you and it will be immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine.

Dear Father, Thank you for having a plan for each of us. Thank you for leading and guiding us to fulfill that purpose. I pray for those who are reading this today who may not know Your will for them. I ask You to show them the plans and purposes you have for them. In Jesus’ matchless name, Amen.

Day Two: The Gift of Vision

2011-11-28T03:00:00.003-05:00

The Gift of Vision

“Write the vision and make it plain on tablets; that he may run who reads it.” Habakkuk 2:2 (NKJV)

Another translation of this verse says it this way: “Write my answer on a billboard, large and clear, so that anyone can read it at a glance and rush to tell the others.”(The Message)

This verse makes it very plain that God has a vision, not just for the Body of Christ, but also for you and me. If this verse is not proof enough to persuade you, here’s another one that is more specific in meaning: “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jer. 29:11) If there has ever been any doubt in your mind as to whether or not God has a plan for your life, you can banish that doubt now.

God gave Mary a vision – she was to be the mother of the Savior of the world. Put yourself in her place. Just imagine how she felt. Awestruck? Afraid? Nervous? Can you see this young teenager in your mind? What would you do if an angel of the Lord appeared before you to give you God’s vision and plans for you? Would you agree? Or would you look around the room to see who the angel was speaking to because, surely, it’s not you. But it is you. You are the only one in the room. He loves you enough to want only the best for you.

When Mary questioned the angel who brought the news, she was not doubting—just curious. “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” (Luke 1:34). The angel explained to Mary that it would be by the Holy Spirit and went on to say, “For with God, nothing is impossible.” (vs. 37). Mary accepted God’s vision for herself: “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be done unto me according to your word.” (vs. 38) She never doubted, never questioned whether or not the angel had visited the right person. She believed and moved forward in the vision.

God gave Jesus a vision. He was to be the Savior of the world. He was to live on earth as God-made-man for 33 years, die on a cross for the sins of the world and rise again in three days. Jesus didn’t balk, protest or do anything that would have indicated a lack of obedience. He went willingly into cities and countries preaching the gospel of Christ. He went willingly to Gethsemane. He went willingly to Golgotha and He went willingly to the grave. But God’s vision for Jesus did not end at the grave. Three days later, the vision continued as Jesus rose from the grave, triumphing over death, and the vision was completed as Jesus ascended into heaven.

God has a vision for YOU. If He has shown you that vision, be obedient and walk in it. If He has not shown you the plans He has for you, ask Him to share it with you. In His time, He will show you His vision and it will be better than anything you could ever ask for or think.

Abba Father, thank You for the vision – the plan – that You had for Mary and for Jesus. Thank You for the vision You have for each one of us. I pray that You will give us courage and help us to walk boldly in that vision with confidence in You and Your plan for our lives. Amen!

Day One: The Gift of Waiting

2011-11-27T03:00:00.000-05:00

The Gift of Waiting

But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. Is. 40:31

The above verse is one of my favorites. I use it frequently in my blogs, in counseling and in encouraging myself. I will mention how some Biblical translations use the word “hope” instead of “wait” and that hope can be used as an acronym for Heart Of Peace and Expectation.

More often than not, when we are waiting on the Lord to answer our prayers—to give us wisdom and guidance about a situation we face, to see His healing manifested in our own body, or that of a loved one—there are lessons that God wants us to learn. Perhaps He desires for us to grow in grace and mercy. Maybe He wants us to learn to be more patient. Or He wants our relationship with Him to grow deeper. It could be that the timing is not right for His answer to be known. Regardless of why the answer has not come, there is a reason we are waiting.

Advent is a season of busyness. We go to this party and that gathering, we sing Christmas carols, shop till we drop, bake and cook. I think we have lost the fact that Advent is a season of waiting. We are so busy running from one store to another, one party to another, we have forgotten that Advent heralds the coming of Christ. Just as an expectant mother anticipates, prepares and waits for nine months the arrival of her newborn, Advent is a period of anticipating, preparing and waiting for the birth of our Savior.

It is my prayer that in some small way, these remaining devotions that you will read during Advent will help you to slow down for a few minutes each day and remember the Reason for the Season. As we look forward to the remainder of the Advent season, may the birth of our Savior renew in you a Heart Of Peace and Expectation.

Come Thou Long Expected Jesus

Come, thou long expected Jesus,

               born to set thy people free;
               from our fears and sins release us,
               let us find our rest in thee.

Israel's strength and consolation,

               hope of all the earth thou art;
               dear desire of every nation,
               joy of every longing heart.

Born thy people to deliver,

               born a child and yet a King,
               born to reign in us forever,
               now thy gracious kingdom bring.

By thine own eternal spirit

               rule in all our hearts alone;
               by thine all sufficient merit,
               raise us to thy glorious throne.

Text: Charles Wellsley 1707 – 1788

Music: Rowland H. Pritchard

Father, as we wait during this Advent Season, help us to take a few minutes each day to think about the Reason for the Season. May we wait with a heart of peace and expectation. And when You speak to us, may we hear with open ears, and a heart ready to receive. In Jesus’ most precious name we pray, AMEN.

2011-11-25T03:00:00.001-05:00

It is Friday, the day after Thanksgiving. The busiest shopping day of the year, as Christmas shopping "officially" begins. I guess it's still recognized as the official beginning of Christmas shopping. Every year Christmas decorations appear in the stores earlier than the previous year. I saw my first Christmas ad on TV the week BEFORE Halloween. Next year, merchants will start advertising in September, immediately after Labor Day, and before we know it, we will see Christmas decorations in the stores year-round. Hmmm . . . maybe I'm onto something here . . .

Not that I want to see Christmas decorations and gifts in the stores year-round. This sacred holiday has been stripped of its true meaning far too long as it is.

No, I'm talking about honoring the reason and spirit of the season all year long. Begin with the attitude of gratitude you committed to earlier this week. (If you missed that blog, at the bottom of the main blog page, click on "Older Posts.")

Once your grateful attitude is firmly in place, then it's easy to honor our God. After all, everything we have for which we should be grateful, He has given those things to us.

This Sunday, November 27 is the First Sunday in Advent. I plan to post my Advent devotions again this year. Why don't you join me as we open a gift from God each day of Advent?

Help a Young Mother of Four Beat Stage 4 Lymphoma!!

2011-11-24T11:29:00.000-05:00

Want to do some good this holiday season? Click over to this fundraiser and help a mom of four beat stage four lymphoma by participating in the raffle! Tickets are only $5 each, and as you can see, there are LOADS of prizes, which will be raffled off starting the 25th. And don't forget to sign up to receive email notifications so you know when your favorite prize packages are being raffled off!

http://fundraiserforsandirog.blogspot.com/2011/11/packages.html

Thanksgiving Day

2011-11-24T03:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

In just a few hours, my sweet hubby and I will travel to my sister's home to celebrate Thanksgiving with her husband and their children and our parents. My children will be having the Thanksgiving meal with their dad's family. We had our Thanksgiving meal together a couple of weeks ago. Because we gather with our families today, it is most appropriate to be thankful for our families.

I am thankful for my parents who always set the example of living a Christian life for my sister and me. My dad set the bar high when it came to work ethics and he instilled in us those same ethics. He also passed along his love of reading. My mom shared her domestic talents with my sister. Alas, none of those talents rubbed off on me! But I did get my dad's business and organizational skills.

I am thankful for my sister, who I almost drove crazy when we were young. But she was patient with me when I was young and since we've become adults we are best friends. She has been there for me more times than I can count - praying, encouraging, loving on me. It is a honor to call her my sister, my friend.

My darling husband - Dave. How God has blessed me so with him. He is my rock. He always makes me feel special and - ahem, even though I need to lose a few pounds (well, make that a lot of pounds) he always makes me feel like I am beautiful. We are soul mates - we finish each other's sentences and sometimes, we say the same thing at the same time. Truly, this was a match made in heaven and I am and will forever be grateful.

I have two of the greatest children and a wonderful grandson that ever graced the earth. (Just a little prejudiced) As teenagers, my children faced challenges that were challenging and difficult. Both of them learned from those challenges, moved forward and today, are successful in all their endeavors and well-loved by family and friends.

Today, wherever you are, and whoever you gather with - family and/or friends, my prayer for you is that you will be blessed and you will count your blessings.

Thanksgiving Wednesday

2011-11-23T03:00:00.001-05:00

"I want you woven into a tapestry of love, in touch with everything there is to know of God. Then you will have minds confident and at rest, focused on Christ, God's great mystery. All the richest treasures of wisdom and knowledge are embedded in that mystery and nowhere else." Colossians 2:2-4 The Message

I love that phrase "woven into a tapestry of love." It reminds me so much of the quilts my grandmothers used to make. My grandmothers lived right around the corner from each other - there was only one house in between their houses. In that middle house also lived a widow and she left her quilting frame set up in her living room 24/7. My grandmothers would go to her house and the three would sew tiny scraps of cloth onto a large piece of material, until those tiny scraps were woven into a beautiful tapestry. As a child, I loved to go with them. They would allow me to sift through all the small pieces of cloth, picking out the ones I thought were pretty. And, when I wasn't looking they would replace the ones I selected that didn't match the others, with pieces that did. I have one of those quilts today, rich in shades of ruby red, blues of the sky and ocean, greens of grass and trees against a background of warm white.

The apostle Paul was not talking about quilts when he expressed his desire to see the Colossians "woven into a tapestry of love." Yet, I can see the similiarities. Each of us are different - different personalities, characteristics just as those scraps of material are different sizes and different colors. Yet, when God begins to "piece" us together - just like the quilt - we beome a beautiful tapestry of His love.

Today, I am thankful for His love. And I am thankful for being woven into a tapestry of love that puts me "in touch of everything there is to know of God."

Thanksgiving Tuesday

2011-11-22T03:00:00.001-05:00

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2

Today, Thanksgiving Tuesday, I am thankful for God's transforming power. God is not just a God of salvation - as necessary as that is - but he is also a God of transformation. Someone once said "God loves us too much to leave us where we are." It's the rule of cause and effect. God's limitless love for us causes him to want only the best for us, and to that end, he will sometimes poke and prod us until he has our undivided attention. Then the Holy Spirit begins his gentle work of reminding us, convicting us, transforming us. Transformation is not always easy. It's hard to admit we are wrong. It's hard to forgive someone who has wounded us so deeply that we feel we will never get past that pain. And yet, if we will just open ourselves to the ministrations of the Holy Spirit and the unconditional love of God, every step along the journey to healing--isn't that what transformation really is--will be directed and protected by God. And when the transformation is complete, what a powerful thanksgiving we will be able to offer up.

What about you? Has God done a transforming work in your life lately? Please feel free to share.

2011-11-21T03:00:00.001-05:00

"A truly thankful person is a person truly at peace." Lysa Terkhuerst

Over the years, I've proven the above statement to be true time and time again. When I realize that I'm not at peace, sometimes I can trace that lack of peace to a lack of thankfulness. With this being Thanksgiving week, naturally our minds and hearts are turned towards thankfulness. So, today I am thankful for:
Lessons learned, not only about thankfulness, but other topics as well. God has been
patiently working with me over the last few weeks, showing and teaching me things
He wants me to know. And I'm thankful for his patience. If it had been anyone else
working with me, that person would have started a prison ministry by now (because
they finally had it with me, knocked me upside the head, and was arrested for assault
and battery.)

I'm thankful for second chances. and third, fourth, tenth and "seven times seventy."
Because I need at least that many - probably more.

My Thanksgiving commitment is to develop and maintain an "attitude of gratitude." Why don't you join with me this year to make thanksgiving last all year long?

Checkin' In

2011-11-18T12:59:00.000-05:00

It has been six days (that's all? seems like 60) since I posted that I was going to spend 30 days asking God what I should do each morning. I don't know if this is a testimony to how crazy busy I am or if it's the beginning of Alzheimer's. As soon as I closed my computer after making that pledge and inviting you to join with me, I forgot about checking with God for my daily tasks. Never. thought. about. it. again. Until today. I think I will put post-it notes all around my house as reminders:

DON'T FORGET!!

REMEMBER!!

Then, I'll have to leave more post-it notes to remind me of what I need to remember!

My new 30-day period begins tomorrow!

Book Review of "Lonestar Angel"

2011-11-15T03:00:00.004-05:00

From page 1, the tension began to build. It was page 321 before I could draw a deep breath and relax. “Lonestar Angel,” Book Four of Colleen Coble’s The Lonestar Novels, has the perfect amount of tension from chapter to chapter. Just as the reader thinks she has solved the mystery, another twist is added and the question of “whodunit” continues until the end. Obviously, I’m not going to tell you “whodunit” –you have to buy the book and find out for yourself.

Not only does the tension grab the reader from the very beginning, but the characters are so realistic and believable, the reader will quickly become immersed in their lives. The hero and heroine, Clay and Eden Larson, reminded me of couples I know. Although we may never face what they faced in this book (I pray not!), struggles are still struggles. Fear, doubt and disappointment are still the same. But as this book points out so beautifully, God is still God and He is still in the business of healing hearts and bringing about reconciliation.

I would be remiss if I did not mention the little girls of Bluebird Ranch. Although the girls were “secondary characters,” Ms. Coble did an excellent job in giving each their own personality and background. These girls were so adorable and precious, I found myself wanting to fly to Texas, drive to the ranch, and adopt them all.

The faithfulness of God is prevalent throughout this book and the message of forgiveness and reconciliation offers hope to all who read it. “Lonestar Angel” should become a permanent part of your library.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

My Lists, My Calendar, My God

2011-11-13T03:00:00.002-05:00

I belong to a local writers group and a few months ago, we decided to divide the group into those interested in writing fiction and those interested in writing nonfiction. Because I am attempting to write a nonfiction, I was put "in charge" of that group. The goal of each meeting is to write, write, write.

The nonfiction group met this past Monday at my home and we talked, talked, talked! We discussed writing topics, we critiqued stories that members had brought and shared writing information we had learned. We didn't write a single word. And that’s okay. Sometimes a detour from the agenda is what we need.

This makes me think of how God changes our "agenda." I am a Type A personality and I live by my lists and my calendar. Before the holidays arrive, I'm planning and writing menus, writing out shopping lists, I make a list of serving dishes to be used and what food will be served in what dish, the Christmas card list, the Christmas gift list. You name a holiday list, and I can guarantee I either use said list now or have used it in the past.

My every day is usually controlled by my to-do lists both at work and at home. I keep a "rolling to-do" list that is broken down further into tasks, phone calls to make, computer work and other.

And because I'm Type A, I go absolutely nuts when I'm pulled away from my list(s) to do something that is not on said lists. God excels in pulling me away. Because I am focused and “list-driven” there have been times when God had to use major, attention-grabbing methods to get my eyes off of the task at hand and back on Him. After several of these instances, it occurred to me that God didn’t care whether or not I had a list. He cared about whether or not I was doing His will at that moment.

One of the writers attending the meeting Monday night addressed this issue. “I don’t make to-do lists,” she said. “When I get up in the morning, I ask God what He wants me to do first. When I finish that task, I sit down. I quiet myself before God and I ask Him what He wants me to do next. I do this all through the day until it’s time to go to bed. This way I am assured of always doing what God wants me to do.”

By the time she finished talking, I was going into withdrawal. Stop using lists? No calendar? I began to hyperventilate. Okay. Easy girl. Deeeep breath. Deeeep breath. In and out. There you go. All better, now? Just because she schedules her day that way, doesn’t mean I have to do it the same way. Does it?

After the ladies left, I thought back over the conversation. If I agree with Psalm 118:24 that states “This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it,” and I do agree with it, it makes sense to also acknowledge Psalm 31:15a “My times are in your hands.” Am I so ignorant to think that relying on God (rather than lists) to order my day would cause me to have an unsuccessful day? God has my (and your) best interests at heart. It is humanly impossible for me to complete what’s on my to-do list every day. “But with God all things are possible.” Does that mean he’ll help me conquer my to-do list every day? No. It means that I will accomplish that which He directs me to do.

How do you plan your day? Lists, calendars, Blackberry, iPad? Or perhaps you’re a “panster.” You “fly by the seat of your pants” moving forth with no plan. Or maybe you’re like my writer friend who always consults God on what to do before starting any task.

I have challenged myself that I will do this for the next 30 days. Every morning for the next 30 days, before I start my day, I will ask God what he wants me to do first. And I’ll do that first; when that is completed, I’ll ask him what’s next.

If you're interested in joining me in this challenge, leave me a comment. We can all cheer each other on!

Blessings!!

Review of Excellent Book

2011-11-10T18:03:00.001-05:00

Apologies from a Repentant Christian

Donna Young

"Apologies from a Repentant Christian" chronicles the author’s “pseudo” Christian life to a life on fire for God and for sharing his Gospel message with everyone she meets. It is refreshingly open and honest as she shares her desires to live a life for God.

On one occasion as the author prayed, she asked God to use her life to glorify Him. Within hours, she was arrested and charged with a felony. That was not exactly what she had expected when she asked God to use her life to bring Him glory. But in her darkest hour, Ms. Young cried out to God and He answered.

With chapter titles such as, “From undeserving to grateful; my apology to God,” “From judgmental to merciful,” and “From Controlling to trusting God,” Ms. Young has written a book that every Christian needs to read. She has set the example by her godly actions, causing this reviewer to stop and think about her own actions.

Apologies from a Repentant Christian is a book that can be read alone, but could easily be adapted into a Bible study for small groups.

The official book launch will be on Veteran’s Day, November 11, 2011 and all proceeds of book sales on that day will be donated to organizations that provide direct relief to our military.

Donna Young worked with nonprofit organizations in the social work field for over twenty years. She became a published author to share her personal story and offer hope to others. You can read more about Donna at http://dlouyoung.blogspot.com. For more information about Apologies from a Repentant Christian, visit XulonPress.com or contact Xulon Press at 866-909-2665.

This book was given to the reviewer at no cost for the sole purpose of reviewing. The opinions of this reviewer do not reflect the opinions of Xulon Press or its employees.

Book Review of "Out of the Darkness"

2011-11-02T16:27:00.000-04:00

Out of the Darkness

Ann Allen

"Out of the Darkness" is the debut nonfiction book of author Ann Allen. It is the author's own story of fighting clinical and spiritual depression. Much of this fight was done through letters written to her pastor, Dr. K, and journal entries, wherein she pours out her heart about life in general, and her life in particular. Over a number of years and many, many letters, Ms. Allen journeyed through the valleys and around the sharp curves of depression until the clouds began to lift. I don't want to give away anything more about this book, except to say that redemption comes in the end.

"Out of the Darkness" should be read by anyone who is suffering from clinical and/or spiritual depression. Equally important, it should be read by the family members of those who are depressed. This book will give family membes greater insight into what their loved one is experiencing than any medical or psychological book can offer. And it will offer hope.

This book was donated for the purposes of a review. The review does not reflect the opinions of the author, Jawbone Publishing or its employees.

Come Away, My Beloved

2011-10-28T15:09:00.001-04:00

My sweet hubby and I were blessed to be able to get away this weekend. We didn't know how badly we needed to get away until we got here. Because of his illnesses, my sleep - or the lack thereof - his sleep - or the lack thereof - my schedule, my new business, on and on ad naseum, we are lucky some days to see each other for an hour. So we've come away for a few days to spend time together, to talk, to pray, to sleep late - well, at least he can sleep late, to laugh together - all the things that we love to do together and yet we've allowed LIFE to control what we do.

All of us need to get away sometimes - married couples, friends, or by ourselves. It is a time to rest, refresh and rejuvenate. It's a time to get to know one another again, or to get yourself again. It is a time to renew your relationship with God, or to take that relationship to a deeper level.

Jesus knew the importance of getting away. After ministering to crowds, he would go away to spend time with His Father, to pray, to listen to His Father, to refresh and renew.

God knows the importance of getting away. In the eighth chapter of the Song of Solomon, He says to His Beloved (the church) "Come away, My Beloved." He wants us to take time away from our busy schedules, from LIFE, and sit in a quiet place and talk with him. He is not asking us to leave town - although at times that is necessary - but just to find a quiet place to "get away" for a while. It can be your porch, a local park, perhaps even a quiet room at your church.

"Come away my beloved," He asks of you. What's holding you back?

OOPS! CORRECTION

2011-10-21T17:32:00.000-04:00

If you read my blog earlier today, you will remember that I said my daughter was graduating from Atlanta Intercontinental University. I typed that late last night/early this morning which is my excuse for making such a ridiculous mistake. The name of the University is AMERICAN Intercontinental - not Atlanta...

Please accept my apologies, Kim and everyone!

CONGRATULATIONS, KIM!!

2011-10-21T03:00:00.001-04:00

Sixteen years ago this past Wednesday, my family welcomed the first grandchild into the world and I became a Nana. I was too young to be a Nana and my daughter, Kim, was too young to be a mother. But that was our reality.

That day began a journey that we never expected to travel. It started as a detour and the detour had many curves, hills and valleys. But the journey has been successful. Highly successful.

Today, Kim will walk across the stage at the Atlanta Civic Center and graduate summa cum laude with a Bachelor's Degree in Organizational and Psychological Behavior from Atlanta International University. This is a hard-earned, seems-like-a-long-time-in-coming event.

Even before today, Kim has been successful in her career. She rapidly moved through the ranks to become a manager for a major airline.

Personally, she has raised her son to be a wonderful young man who the entire family and everyone who knows him loves. Kim is a determined young woman. Without that determination that she developed in ther teens, she would not be where she is today.

She has become a loving and compassionate woman. Kim is a daughter that any mother would be proud of. But she is my daughter and there's never been a mother as proud as I am today.

Kim, there was never a single moment when I thought you would not get to this day. You have overcome obstacles that many girls and women never have to face. And you've done it with determination and strength and grace. I have always been proud of you. Always. But today, my pride knows no boundaries.

My prayer for you is that God will richly bless you no matter where your career takes you and that you will know the height and depth of God's everlasting and unconditional love for you!

Love,

MoM

Thank you

2011-10-20T03:00:00.001-04:00

I belong to a local writers group in the county where I live. This group has sub-divided into "fiction writers" and "nonfiction writers." This past Monday night, the nonfiction writers group met and we had a visitor - Peggy Poe. During the course of our meeting, everyone was to write something - anything - as long as it was nonfiction. We stopped about thirty minutes before the end of the meeting and everyone shared what she had written. I was so impressed by what Peggy shared, I asked her permission to share this on my blog and she graciously agreed. May God minister to you through Peggy's words, as He did to me.

Thank You

Peggy Poe

Thank you for letting me be poor so I could learn that wealth does not consist of things.

Thank you for letting me be rejected so I could learn to include everyone in my circle of love.

Thank you for letting me be unimportant so I could learn everyone is important.

Thank you for letting me be just me so I could let others be just them.

Thank you for praising me so I could learn to live without the praise of others.

Thank you for telling me what to do so I could learn obedience.

Thank you for never being in a hurry with me so I could learn to have patience with myself.

Thank you for being God my Father and for letting me be your child.

WE HAVE A WINNER!!

2011-10-19T07:09:00.000-04:00

I am sorry I did not have the drawing for "Second Time Around" this past Monday, October 17. However, I had jury duty that day and even though I was dismissed that day (thank God!) it seemed to throw my entire week out of balance. But never fear! The drawing was held this morning and

KATIE PURCELL IS OUR WINNER!!

Katie, please send me your mailing address and I will have the book sent directly to you!

Blessings to all!!

2011-10-11T23:48:00.000-04:00

Isaiah 14:14 states, "The Lord will fight for you, you only need be still." Now, fill in your name, and it reads like this: "The Lord will fight for Edwina, Edwina only need be still."

Another version has replaced 'you only need be still' with 'you shall hold your peace.' "The Lord will fight for Edwina, Edwina shall hold her peace."

So why do we not stand still? Sit still? At this point, it is all He is asking of us.

God told me several weeks ago to step back from all that I was doing for a period of time, so that I could sit before Him and be still.

Be. Still.

"Be still and know. Be still and know that I AM. Be still and know that I AM your GOD."

I am not a person to sit still and do nothing. Even when I'm sitting, I'm doing something - writing, reading, cross stitching, and the list could go on.

So the challenge has been for me to sit still. That is until last week when I had the opportunity to go away for two days to the north Georgia mountains. There is nothing like sitting outside in the crisp, cool fall air watching the sun rise over the Blue Ridge mountains. The leaves were just beginning to change color. A spot of orange here, a splash of gold over there, a burst of red, yet still surrounded by the rich greens of summer. And there, among the beauty of God's creation, I sat still. And listened. And heard.

"Second Time Around" is back for a Second Time Around

2011-10-09T18:02:00.000-04:00

In the several years I have been reading books and posting reviews, I've never done this. I've thought about this for almost a week, and have decided to repeat the contest for "Second Time Around." Of the three people who commented, only 1 followed the instructions and that post was several days after the deadline. So, I'm repeating the contest. Here is the original interview with JoAnn Durgin, author of "Second Time Around" and my review. At the end, will be the instructions for entering the contest.

Book Review

Second Time Around

I am thrilled to have my dear friend, JoAnn Durgin, as my guest today. JoAnn’s second book, Second Time Around has arrived! It’s Book #2 in The Lewis Legacy Series, the follow-up to the popular Awakening with Sam Lewis and Lexa Clarke. Both books are available from all major online booksellers in both paperback and electronic versions.

Those of you who know me, or have read my blog a few times, know that I am an avid reader – always have been – always will be. I suspect that I’ve read, including all the Dick and Jane books in kindergarten, well into the thousands of books in my lifetime. Some good, some not so good; some memorable and some not so memorable. Some books were so good that I would want to share them with others and I would loan them out especially to my Dad from whom I got my love of reading. In the last couple of years, I’ve given books as a prize on this blog. But then there are those books that are so outstanding that I keep them in my personal library so I can read them over and over again.

Such is the case with Second Time Around, JoAnn’s latest book. A follow-up to Awakening, JoAnn’s debut novel, Second Time Around is the story of Marc and Natalie Thompson. It is the story of a love that is nearly lost due to a tragic accident, of a husband who fights for the life, and then for the love, of his bride. It is the story of a new love that is stronger – a “three cord strand” kind of love that cannot be broken. What a beautiful parallel between Marc and Natalie’s story and the story of God’s love for us – how He fought for our very lives because of His love for us. And His love for us is always stronger than a “three cord strand.”
Here is the synopsis from the back cover (and speaking of covers, don’t you love the front cover??)

Marc Thompson is on top of the world—a newlywed with a beautiful wife, the owner of a thriving Boston sports advertising agency, and a century-old home they’re renovating in the suburbs. Then the unthinkable happens. Two months after the wedding, Marc sits in a hospital emergency waiting room after Natalie suffers a horrible fall. One shock follows another. Not only does his wife remember nothing of their life together, but now Marc has a personal timeline to reconnect with her—seven months.

His shiny gold wedding band mocks him, a reminder of a promise broken by a rotting piece of wood. Marc’s psychologist advises him to court his wife again—a daunting task the first time around. Then his pastor suggests he call Sam and Lexa Lewis of TeamWork Missions, a ministry dear to Natalie’s heart. Determined to help her reclaim her life, the young groom makes great strides until a ghost from the past surfaces, opening fresh wounds and threatening to destroy it all.

With Natalie’s trust shattered and Marc’s faith wavering, they head to Montana with TeamWork for a two-week work camp at Milestone Ranch. But instead of romancing his wife with warm fires, hot chocolate and a fresh start, he’s out in the cold and back at square one. Even if Natalie recovers her lost memories, will she forgive him? If not, can Marc come to terms with his deepest fear—the failure of his marriage?

You’ll root for Marc and Natalie as they fight against the odds and discover that giving up the reins and surrendering all at the throne of grace doesn’t mean failure—it’s simply called faith. And it might be the only way to finding their way back to one another . . . the second time around.

Second Time Around will hold you captive from page one to the end. You will be swept up in the lives of Marc and Natalie and by the end of the book, they will be a part of your family. They will be a welcome addition and you will want to read their story over and over.

JoAnn, I know that you are an incredibly busy woman! How do you balance family, working full time, writing and all of the other activities you do?
It is a very delicate balancing act, and there aren’t enough hours in the day. My full-time paralegal job is demanding, and with a husband and three children, something had to give in order for me to devote the time I needed, and wanted, to my blossoming writing career. I resigned from my position as a floor manager with the Kentucky Center for the Arts in late February. I adored my wonderful volunteer staff, but now they’re cheering me on from the sidelines and are so faithful. It’s so gratifying to have a personal contingent of fans!

The short answer is the Lord sustains me, even when I feel like I can’t keep my eyes open or can’t keep going. It’s more of an energy (or lack thereof) thing with me these days, and since Awakening released in November 2010, it’s been an endless round of marketing, blog interviews and editing. Mind you, I’m not complaining, and I realize how blessed I am! The Lord has opened doors beyond my wildest expectations, and I am truly living the dream. How many people can truly say that? The other important thing to note is that the Lord gives me that peace to know that sometimes it’s okay to relax, to sit back and read or do something nice for myself. It reenergizes and refreshes me, and it’s every bit as important as all the rest.

Tell us about your family.

Sarah just turned 22, and she’s a college student and works part-time. Like her father (my husband, Jim), she’s quiet and intellectual, and loves great literature and classic movies. She also resembles Jim with dark hair and gorgeous hazel eyes. Chelsea is almost 19 and also a college student. She’s more the social butterfly, and independent like her mother, and yes, favors me physically with her lighter hair and eyes. Matthew is my 15-year-old, and what a love bug! He’s high-functioning autistic (Asberger’s Syndrome), but he’s the smartest, brightest, most intuitive kid you’ll ever meet. He can look at a skyscraper and build it from memory – almost to scale – with Lego blocks. He’s a freshman in high school this year, and doing very well. He’ll probably be an architect or a salesman (although meteorologist figures in, too). He’s atypical (in terms of the autism) in that he’s incredibly social and loving. Matthew embodies the love of Christ, and he will do great things through Christ who indeed strengthens him.

I understand that Awakening and Second Time Around are part of a series. Tell us how you thought of the idea for the first book and developed it into a series. Or did it even happen that way?
Yes, it’s called The Lewis Legacy Series, and the third book, Twin Hearts, is planned for release sometime in the early part of 2012. It picks up with the parallel love stories of the twins, Rebekah and Josh Grant, both already familiar to readers if they’ve read the other books. There’s something so familiar, comforting and lovely about revisiting old friends, and I like to think that’s true with this series. The books are all written, just waiting to be edited. The beauty in that is that I can go back and foreshadow certain events and add or delete certain things, if needed.

I never thought of writing a series until I rediscovered Awakening more than a decade after it was originally written, and it’s loosely based on my own love story with Jim. It’s a testament of God’s faithfulness. Awakening was the last manuscript I wrote before putting my writing aside for a decade. I’d encourage readers who aren’t familiar with the story to read about it on my website (www.joanndurgin.com). When I looked at it again with “fresh” eyes, I got the idea for a series featuring the different members of TeamWork, the volunteer missions group introduced in Awakening. The volunteers introduced in the books represent different regions of the country, professions, etc. I thought it would be a good way for each book to be a stand-alone love story and yet connected with the other books, with Sam and Lexa as my core characters and mentors to the others (including three of Sam’s siblings). Each one builds on the events of the previous books, but again, each one can stand on its own (and I’m not revealing to anyone how many books there are – suffice it to say, it’s a lengthy series).
Tell us one thing about yourself that your readers do not know.

That’s a fun question! I have several little tidbits noted on my website. Things like being related to a Master’s and U.S. Open golf champion. Then there’s seeing Liz Taylor and Richard Burton together on the Broadway stage . . . being proposed to in Carmel, CA, after a romantic lunch overlooking Monterey Bay. Let me think of something else…hmm… Okay, here’s one. The one thing I always wanted to do (but know I never will) is learn to fly a plane. Why not? I’m too short and too nearsighted. One of my bosses in California (a winegrower) had a private jet and took us to dinner one evening. Talk about a thrill! My uncle co-owns a private jet, and he flew some of the family from Indiana to Massachusetts for a wedding once (little did I know I’d be living just down the road outside Boston in about 20 more years!). You feel the air pockets and turbulence more in the smaller jets, but it was exciting to have the experience. Nothing thrills me more than the feeling of speed and power when a plane lifts off the runway. I’m content to put it all in God’s hands and the hands of fully-trained pilots and enjoy the ride.

Thanks so much for hosting me on your blog, Edwina, and for being a supporter of Second Time Around and my other books. It’s been a real thrill. Blessings to you, my friends. Matthew 5:16.

Thank you for stopping by today, JoAnn!

To My Readers: I was given an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) for the purpose of reading the book and writing the review. The ARC is not suitable to give as a prize. However, I was so blessed by this book that I want to bless one of you! Please leave me a comment as to why you'd like to read this book and WHO you would pass it on to after you've finished. Be sure and leave me your email address so I can contact you if you are the winner! The random drawing will be held on Monday, October 17, so don't delay entering!! This contest is open to U. S. residents only in the 48 contingent states and is VOID where prohibited! You must be 18 years or older to enter!

WE HAVE A WINNER!

2011-10-04T07:32:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Heidi who won a copy of Karen Kingsbury's Leaving!

AND DON'T FORGET: Today is the last day to register to win a copy of Second Time Around by JoAnn Durgin! This is a wonderful story - one you don't want to miss!

Another Fun Book!

2011-10-03T03:00:00.001-04:00

Scientists discovered some time ago what Solomon knew in Proverbs 17:22: " A cheerful heart doeth good like medicine." In other words, laughter does a person good. It has even been proven that cancer patients improve when they watch comedy movies, read humorous books.

This is why I love Janice Thompson's books. Her books are full of humor and I always feel better after reading her latest one is no exception. Hello Hollywood follows the story of Athena Pappas, head writer of "Stars Collide" one of the most popular comedies in TV history. Laughter begins and sparks fly when the show brings on Vegas comedian Stephen Cosse on board to help lift the sagging ratings.

Janice's writing is quick and witty and she does something really fun with the chapters. But I'm not giving that away - you'll have to purchase the book to find out.

If you're looking for a light-hearted, uplifting book to read, this is it! I give it 6 out of 5 stars!

2011-09-30T03:00:00.008-04:00

I am delighted to have Sandra Ardoin as my guest today. Although we've never met, Sandy and I are part of a critique group and we've gotten to know each other quite well over the last year or so. Enjoy this excellent message by Sandy and be sure to sign up to follow her blog!

JUST WHOSE PLANS ARE THEY, ANYWAY?

(Sandra Ardoin)

Somewhere recently, I read a blog post in which the writer asked if there was a particular scripture that we had adopted for our writing.

Years ago, a former associate pastor sent me a small card with Jeremiah 29:11 printed on it. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” For a long time, I had that card taped near my computer where I could see it while I worked. Now I keep the verse bookmarked in my Bible. What encouraging words for anyone in any situation, but especially for writers who are anxious to see their hard work in print.

I believe God has a plan for us in the various aspects of our lives: family, career, health, etc. His plan for my writing may not match my goals. It may not match the potential sales figures my future editor has arrived at (whoever that will be). And it may not be the numerous published novels and fame my family hopes for the future. In fact, there may be no books at all. What if He only wants me to encourage others in their journey?

I’ll admit, it’s difficult to beat back frustration when I think I should be at a certain point in my writing career—I am not getting any younger, Lord. Then I remember that if I claim (to myself, God, or others) that my writing is as much a ministry as it is a profession, what do I have to complain about? He can use my words to minister to others in whatever form they take. Okay, publication is a nice bonus.

But if I believe in God’s promise that He will never harm me, that He only wants the best for me, I need to understand that no matter what my professional future holds, as long as I’m following His will—His plan—to the best of my ability, I’m where I need to be at this moment and at this time.

So how about you? Do you believe God has a plan to give you a future filled with hope?

Sandra Ardoin loves history and fiction, so how could she help but put the two together? Her work has been published in various forms, but fiction allows her to share the stories that run through her imagination. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. Contact Sandra through her website at www.sandraardoin.com. Follow her on Twitter, Google+, and Goodreads

2011-09-28T03:00:00.001-04:00

Book Review

Second Time Around

Here is the synopsis from the back cover (and speaking of covers, don’t you love the front cover??)

JoAnn, I know that you are an incredibly busy woman! How do you balance family, working full time, writing and all of the other activities you do?

It is a very delicate balancing act, and there aren’t enough hours in the day. My full-time paralegal job is demanding, and with a husband and three children, something had to give in order for me to devote the time I needed, and wanted, to my blossoming writing career. I resigned from my position as a floor manager with the Kentucky Center for the Arts in late February. I adored my wonderful volunteer staff, but now they’re cheering me on from the sidelines and are so faithful. It’s so gratifying to have a personal contingent of fans!

The short answer is the Lord sustains me, even when I feel like I can’t keep my eyes open or can’t keep going. It’s more of an energy (or lack thereof) thing with me these days, and since Awakening released in November 2010, it’s been an endless round of marketing, blog interviews and editing. Mind you, I’m not complaining, and I realize how blessed I am! The Lord has opened doors beyond my wildest expectations, and I am truly living the dream. How many people can truly say that? The other important thing to note is that the Lord gives me that peace to know that sometimes it’s okay to relax, to sit back and read or do something nice for myself. It reenergizes and refreshes me, and it’s every bit as important as all the rest.

Tell us about your family.

Sarah just turned 22, and she’s a college student and works part-time. Like her father (my husband, Jim), she’s quiet and intellectual, and loves great literature and classic movies. She also resembles Jim with dark hair and gorgeous hazel eyes. Chelsea is almost 19 and also a college student. She’s more the social butterfly, and independent like her mother, and yes, favors me physically with her lighter hair and eyes. Matthew is my 15-year-old, and what a love bug! He’s high-functioning autistic (Asberger’s Syndrome), but he’s the smartest, brightest, most intuitive kid you’ll ever meet. He can look at a skyscraper and build it from memory – almost to scale – with Lego blocks. He’s a freshman in high school this year, and doing very well. He’ll probably be an architect or a salesman (although meteorologist figures in, too). He’s atypical (in terms of the autism) in that he’s incredibly social and loving. Matthew embodies the love of Christ, and he will do great things through Christ who indeed strengthens him.

I understand that Awakening and Second Time Around are part of a series. Tell us how you thought of the idea for the first book and developed it into a series. Or did it even happen that way?

Yes, it’s called The Lewis Legacy Series, and the third book, Twin Hearts, is planned for release sometime in the early part of 2012. It picks up with the parallel love stories of the twins, Rebekah and Josh Grant, both already familiar to readers if they’ve read the other books. There’s something so familiar, comforting and lovely about revisiting old friends, and I like to think that’s true with this series. The books are all written, just waiting to be edited. The beauty in that is that I can go back and foreshadow certain events and add or delete certain things, if needed.

I never thought of writing a series until I rediscovered Awakening more than a decade after it was originally written, and it’s loosely based on my own love story with Jim. It’s a testament of God’s faithfulness. Awakening was the last manuscript I wrote before putting my writing aside for a decade. I’d encourage readers who aren’t familiar with the story to read about it on my website (www.joanndurgin.com). When I looked at it again with “fresh” eyes, I got the idea for a series featuring the different members of TeamWork, the volunteer missions group introduced in Awakening. The volunteers introduced in the books represent different regions of the country, professions, etc. I thought it would be a good way for each book to be a stand-alone love story and yet connected with the other books, with Sam and Lexa as my core characters and mentors to the others (including three of Sam’s siblings). Each one builds on the events of the previous books, but again, each one can stand on its own (and I’m not revealing to anyone how many books there are – suffice it to say, it’s a lengthy series).

Tell us one thing about yourself that your readers do not know.

Thanks so much for hosting me on your blog, Edwina, and for being a supporter of Second Time Around and my other books. It’s been a real thrill. Blessings to you, my friends. Matthew 5:16.

Thank you for stopping by today, JoAnn!

To My Readers: I was given an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) for the purpose of reading the book and writing the review. The ARC is not suitable to give as a prize. However, I was so blessed by this book that I want to bless one of you! Please leave me a comment as to why you'd like to read this book and WHO you would pass it on to after you've finished. Be sure and leave me your email address so I can contact you if you are the winner! The random drawing will be held on Wednesday, October 5, so don't delay entering!! This contest is open to U. S. residents only in the 48 contingent states and is VOID where prohibited! You must be 18 years or older to enter!

Book Review: Leaving by Karen Kingsbury

2011-09-26T06:17:00.000-04:00

Karen Kingsbury is well known for her “Life Changing Fiction.” She has written another life-changing book in Leaving, Book One of the Bailey Flanigan Series.

Readers of Karen’s book will remember meeting Bailey in the Firstborn Series. We watched her grow in the Sunrise series and Above the Line series, all three series of the Baxter Family saga. And now she has her own series. I write about Bailey as if she’s a real person because that’s how Ms. Kingsbury’s books make us feel. She writes such in-depth characters that they become a part of our lives. We are happy when good things happen to them and we are sad during their difficult times.

I will not spoil your reading pleasure by giving away the story of Leaving., although the title should be a obvious giveaway. Suffice it to say, if you are a fan of Karen’s books, you will enjoy Leaving. And if you’ve never read any of Karen’s books, Leaving is a perfect book to start your journey.

I have a copy of Leaving for a book give-away. Please leave your comment and let me know if you are a Karen Kingsbury fan or if this would be your first book Karen Kingsbury book to read. Be sure an leave your email address so if you win, I can contact you. Drawing will be held on Monday, October 3.

This book was provided free of charge by Amazon Vine Program for the sole purpose of a book review. The opinions expressed in this review are strictly my own and in no way reflect the opinions of Amazon, or its employees.

Bearing Fruit by Staci Stallings

2011-09-21T03:00:00.006-04:00

I am delighted to have Staci Stallings as a guest blogger today! She has written an excellent post about a new way to look at John 15:1-2. Enjoy!

Bearing Fruit

I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it, that it may bear more fruit. –John 15: 1-2

Every so often a misinterpretation corrected sends shock waves through my life. Thus it was with this Bible verse. I had always defined “bear” as meaning to produce. In other words, “Every branch in Me that does not produce fruit, He takes away…” Then I began reading about how God doesn’t expect us to do things for Him, no, He wants to do things through us if we allow Christ and the Holy Spirit to take over our lives to such a degree that it is them doing the doing and not us.

Okay, but there was still this verse. Clearly it says if I am in Him, I will produce fruit. Right? Well, maybe.

I give you this new insight to ponder, not so that you can accept it outright, but so that you can try it on in your life and see if it fits.

There is a second definition of “bear” I had never considered. It is actually the first definition of the word. Bear means to carry or to hold.

Does that make any difference in how you read this verse? “Every branch in Me that does not hold fruit, He takes away…” To me, holding is much different than producing. Holding is passive. Someone else has done all the hard work to produce it, all I have to do is be strong enough in Christ to hold the fruit He’s producing in my life!

You know, looking back, I wonder how much fruit I didn’t “hold” because I was so busy trying to “produce” fruit on my own. I wasn’t focused on what God was doing in my life, I was focused on what I was doing for Him. Trust me on this, the difference between the two in theory and in practice are huge!

The funny thing is, since I’ve stopped trying to produce fruit for Him, fruit in abundance has come into my life. In my books, in my kids, in my marriage, in our finances. Things I used to work so hard to accomplish (which never seemed to work out) are suddenly heaped upon me in blessing after blessing. I am convinced it’s because I stopped trying to produce and started being content to hold that this change has come about.

So, as I said before, consider this simple yet profound modification in the way you define “bear.” It may well change your entire life!

A stay-at-home mom with a husband, three kids and a writing addiction on the side, Staci Stallings has numerous titles for readers to choose from. (Pick up the Price of Silence now for only $0.99! http://www.amazon.com/The-Price-of-Silence-ebook/dp/B004E9U7P6) Not content to stay in one genre and write it to death, Staci’s stories run the gamut from young adult to adult, from motivational and inspirational to full-out Christian and back again. Every title is a new adventure! That’s what keeps Staci writing and you reading. Although she lives in Amarillo, Texas and her main career right now is her family, Staci touches the lives of people across the globe every week with her various Internet endeavors including:

Books In Print, Kindle, & FREE on Spirit Light Works:

http://stacistallings.wordpress.com/

Spirit Light Books--The Blog: http://spiritlightbooks.wordpress.com/

And… Staci’s website http://www.stacistallings.com Come on over for a visit…

You’ll feel better for the experience!

Better Late than Never - Winner Announced!

2011-09-19T06:26:00.000-04:00

I don't know who created that term "better late than never" but recently, it has definitely applied to me! I'm sorry I missed the deadline for the drawing for Joel Osteen's book - but hey, I made my publisher's deadline - in fact, I was three days early!!!!

Congratulations to Joy McGee who won Every Day a Friday by Joel Osteen!

Stay tuned this week for a guest blog - and who knows - maybe more book giveaways! My bookcase shelves are beginning to protest!!

Blessings!!

2011-09-13T03:00:00.001-04:00

In Joel Osteen’s latest book, Every Day a Friday, he proposes that everyone is happier on Friday. That we have survived the week and made it to the weekend. His premise for this book is that we can be happy every day of the week, not just on Friday. In fact, the subtitle of the book is: “How to be Happier 7 Days a Week.” Here is a quote from the back cover:

“Faith is always in the present. Your attitude should be: I’m excited to be breathing today. I’m excited about my family, my health, and my opportunities. I have plenty of reasons to be happy right now….You may have some setbacks and your circumstances may change but don’t let that change your mind…Keep it set on happiness. It is your choice to be happy. Make up your mind to enjoy this day, to have a blessed, prosperous, victorious year.”

Olsteen took the material for Every Day a Friday and divided it into seven sections, “all built on key points or holding on to your happiness and joy every day of the week:

     ·         Don’t Give Away Your Power
     ·         Know What to Ignore
     ·         Live Without Crutches
     ·         Laugh Often
     ·         Celebrate Yourself
     ·         Travel Light
     ·         Be a Dream Releaser

Although there are many references to God and Scripture, much of the book reads like a “power of positive thinking” type book. A few examples are some of the subtitles within chapters: “Be the Best You Can Be; Stay in Your Own Race;” “Be the Best You!” Even the sidebars are very much positive-thinking oriented. “Run your own race. You have something great to offer.” “Don’t compare yourself. Celebrate yourself.”

This book will appeal to the Charismatic Christians who prescribe to the practice of stating they want something and claiming it is theirs. These Christians deny that it is “positive thinking” but is done in faith. Opponents of the “name it and claim it” (as it was known in the earlier days of the Charismatic movement) will not appreciate this book for the very same reason that charismatics will like it.

Ultimately, it will be up to you, the individual reader, as to whether you wish to buy and read Every Day a Friday: How to be Happier 7 Days a Week.

This book was given to me by Faith Words for the sole purpose of reading and writing this review. My opinion does not, in any manner, reflect the opinion of Faith Words, its owner nor its employees.

This book is available to win! Just leave a comment, with your email address so I can contact you. The contest closes on Tuesday, September 20 at midnight; winner will be notified on Wednesday, September 21 via email. This contest is open only to residents of the U.S. and is void where prohibited.