Strategy (I hope, I hope, I hope!)

"The best laid schemes of mice and men - - -"

Meaning - - The most carefully prepared plans may go wrong.

From Robert Burns' poem To a Mouse, 1786. It tells of how he, while plowing a field, upturned a mouse's nest. The resulting poem is an apology to the mouse:

The best laid schemes of mice and men

But, Mousie, thou art no thy lane [you aren't alone]

In proving foresight may be vain:

The best laid schemes o' mice an' men

Gang aft a-gley, [often go awry]

An' lea'e us nought but grief an' pain,

For promised joy.

The poem is of course the source for the title of John Steinbeck's 1937 novel - Of Mice and Men.

It is not wrong to make plans and have a strategy, but at best include God in the equation - - -

James 4:13-15  New American Standard Bible (NASB)
13 Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and engage in business and make a profit.” 14 Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. 15 Instead, you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and also do this or that.”

This post is in preparation for the One Word Carnival that opens on Tuesday.
The word is: STRATEGY. View the One Word Carnival at:
http://peterpollock.com/2011/11/strategy-blog-carnival/

Goodness is a Fruit of the Spirit



The Fruit of the Spirit is Goodness

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Gleanings today are from our Pastor’s continuing series on the Fruit of the Spirit.

Pastor Carl began by reading the 23rd Psalm and emphasizing that Goodness and Mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.

Pastor reminded us of the little prayer recited by children as they learn to bless their food.
“God is Great; God is Good, and we Thank Jesus for this food.”

He quoted the scripture that says though Jesus was rich; he became poor so that we might become rich. God is rich in mercy and goodness.

His mercies are new every morning. God is a GOOD God and He gives and keeps on giving.

Jesus is the source of goodness. Jesus is the Tree of Life. The cross became the tree that brought us life.

The Bible says that cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree, and Jesus became a curse for us to take our curse away. All the evil, wickedness, and sin was placed on Jesus on that tree.

He carried yours and my sin - - AND all the sins of the world.  Once and for all He demonstrated His love for us so that we might inherit eternal life.

We benefit from his death, burial and resurrection.

Jesus is the Key to all the Fruit of the Spirit including goodness.

Goodness is a quality which imitates God. Our lives should be a reflection of these God like qualities as we abide in Him.

We shall know the truth and the truth shall set us free - -

We shall be Free to live a goodly Godly life.



This post has been linked to: Sundays in my City - -
http://www.unknownmami.com/2011/10/sundays-in-my-city-119.html

Hear it on Sunday Use it on Monday. http://www.michellederusha.com/2011/10/hear-it-on-sunday-use-it-on-monday_31.html

And to: Spiritual Sunday http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/10/happy-fall.html

Please follow these sites to gather some good Spiritual food and if you write a blog, to perhaps share on their site.

Uninvited Visitor

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The knocking at my door was more of a violent scratching, like my dog does when he wants inside.

I pulled the curtain aside and peered out to view the hooded dark figure as he continued to knock.

Opening the door just a crack was enough for him to push against the door and gain entrance even without a formal invitation.

I asked his name, and he mumbled something and then quietly moved to a corner to sit and hide while he continued observing me.

Finally I told him I was not certain that I wanted him in my home.

He spoke in whispers and in a nagging dialogue began to berate me and tell me how bad I was, and that I was no good. 

His voice rose up a tone or two as he gained confidence in what he was about. “You do nothing right, and no one likes you,” was spewing from his lips. “It was all your fault and you have no one to blame except yourself,” he continued.

“Even God will never forgive you, and you will never make heaven your home!”

How could I shut up this disgusting creature, and how could I entreat him to leave?

All that he alleged was both true and at the same time false, but now I was hurting in the pit of my stomach as he continued to criticize and rebuke my being.

Crying out to God for help seemed not to reach heaven. I had asked forgiveness, long ago, and had become a “good Christian,” so why was he doing this to me?

My thoughts turned to recent readings in my Bible, and I remembered a verse in Romans that I quoted often. I began to speak it out loud to this strange uninvited visitor.

Romans 8:1-2 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.  For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death.

Gaining confidence - - and with a bold voice, I spoke to my visitor, and told him that he must leave and not return.

With a crooked smile, he raised himself, and slowly slinked toward the open door and left.

But as he trudged down the path, he turned and called to me - - - “I’ll be back!!"

Food Multiplied at a Prison Outreach by "OM"

(AP Images/Dario Lopez-Mills)

This amazing and interesting article was reported in “Charisma news” about the ministry of Operation Mobilization Mexico’s July Outreach. I thought it would bless you to read about it here.

God Miraculously Multiplies Food at Prison Outreach

They had only prepared food for 70 people.  But once the service in the prison in Pochutla had started, more and more men joined in. During Operation Mobilization Mexico’s July outreach in the state of Oaxaca, a group of volunteers organized a program for the inmates of the detention center.

They began with songs of praise and worship, and a former drug addict gave his testimony.

They performed a drama and preached from the Word of God, challenging the inmates. Several men were touched by the message and tears ran down their cheeks. “This filled our hearts with joy,” says Tami, coordinator of the program.

As soon as the service finished, it was time to pass out the food. “We prayed for God to multiply the food,” says Tami. “By the end of the service there were 200 men attending.”

Their prayer was answered. “I could hardly believe it, but it happened. As we were handing the food out to the inmates, it didn’t run out. We even had enough plates and spoons for 200 men!”

Tami and her team were amazed by this miracle. “When we gave food to the last person in line, it finally ran out. God’s name be praised!”

God is still the God of Miracles.  If He has done it before - - He can do it again!

Pocket Full of Candy



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This story is a re-post, because Billy’s awesome story reminded me of my Dad and I thought you would enjoy how Dad give up cigarettes.  Please follow this link for Billy’s amazing story of giving up his poison. http://www.billycoffey.com/2011/10/picking-your-poison/

Also my husband's blog has an interesting post today on Food.  View him at: http://musingsbyrobert.blogspot.com/

Pocket Full of Candy

My Dad’s favorite place to hide and smoke was under the back porch! He was only nine years old then, but continued to smoke most of his adult life.

A person doesn’t develop a habit from smoking one or two cigarettes! It is continual repetition that trains the mind to call out, “I must have another cigarette.” In no time at all, bondage occurs and smoking becomes a strong addiction.

As a child, I can remember our house filled with smoke and my eyes burning, and I told myself, “I will never marry a man who smokes!”

Years later, my dad contracted a terrible case of Pneumonia. When he could not walk from one room to the next for lack of breath, his thoughts were that he was not long for this world.

My brother, Allen, came to visit him, and they discussed his smoking. My Dad declared that he was ready to give up cigarettes. Allen laid his hands on Daddy’s chest and prayed a strong, powerful prayer for deliverance from the infection, and also from cigarettes.

Almost immediately there was a change in our dad’s breathing and he was able to get up and take a few steps. Daily strength was gained as his solid determination to stay free from tobacco also grew.

Amazingly, the desire for cigarettes had left him, but another interesting phenomenon lingered. His hand automatically reached into the pocket where his pack of cigarettes had been kept. Apparently his hand was still in bondage to the habit of reaching!

Since my dad was a thinker, he arrived at a solution that worked for him. He chose to keep small candies in his shirt pocket so that when his hand wanted to reach for a cigarette there was a sweet substitute for him to enjoy instead.

Often, his pocket filled with small kisses, Dad delighted in sharing these candies with the children at church. Usually he would also offer a kind word, and our children remember feeling so special for Grandpa’s “sweet” attention and encouraging words.

Let me I urge you not to fall back into old ways. Don’t go back to that from which you have been set free! Do not be like the dog who returns to his vomit, but keep yourself free and clean.

Many have employed various methods to enable themselves to break certain habits. That is only half the battle!  Determination and a new direction are needed!

How does this occur? You will need to reach for God’s Word and put it in your mouth!    Then share your victory with others.

Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

This post is linked with Ann Kroeker’s, Food on Fridays at http://annkroeker.com/
Do hop on over to her site and gather up some delicious and nutritious recipes.

and also linked to Laura's Brag on God on Friday at: 

http://www.beholdingglory.com/1/post/2011/10/brag-on-god-friday15.html

Cut the Apron Strings

 


The announcement by our young son that he wanted to purchase a motorcycle touched a spark in me that caused my hair to stand on end.

Although he was old enough to drive one, I refused to even consider the thought. I suppose I was a domineering Mom and I was also a bit strict.

But mom, I already have a job lined up to deliver packages for a courier service - - and this cycle belonged to the lady who had this job before. She is asking a very good price for it and it will be a safe bike.

About that time, my husband entered the room having heard the conversation. He gently came along side me and whispered in my ear,

“Hazel it is time to cut the apron strings!” 

That remark was like cold water thrown on my face, and it did wake me up.

“All-right,” I told our son, “but let Dad go with you and if he thinks it is a good buy, you can go ahead with your plans.” A Happy boy purchased his cycle and he also got the job.

He did enjoy the money that this after school job gave him, and I noticed that he had purchased an extra helmet.

One day, here he came, with one of the girls from our church perched on the back of the cycle, both as happy as jay birds. He was observing all the rules of safety and also enjoying the prestige that this small cycle gave him.

Children do grow up, and when they are responsible and hopefully wise - - it is time to allow them to make adult choices.

As our children reached adulthood, there have been times that I have had to say, “Well I don’t approve, but you are old enough to know right from wrong, so I thank you for at least telling me what you plan to do.”

I have learned to cut the strings even when it is painful. The worse part is that cutting the apron strings can hurt the mother and sometimes also the child as she releases her hold on her babies.

I am reminded that God has cut the apron strings on us and permits us to make decisions.

Not all choices are so good for us, but God allows us to make our own mistakes.

At other times, the Lord is pleased with us as he sees us “happy as jay birds” enjoying the pleasures of riding (or walking) on the path he has laid out for us.

Although I do not consider the Holy Spirit to be apron strings, I do appreciate that He walks along side me and whispers in my ear – I am with you always; where ever you go.

 

Locked Jaw





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A recent post by a Blogger friend at: http://bit.ly/s3piQm  shared “The day her face fell.” A trip to the Doctor diagnosed her with Bell's palsy, for many only a temporary problem, but for others a long lasting disability. Her Doctor’s confirmation that this will probably get worse and might go away after some time was not a happy note.

Gratefully she accepted the steroids he gave her and went home to rest and pray. Friends sent up prayers and in a few days her Doctor was amazed to find that she was back to normal.

I do believe in prayer and I know God works miracles and praise is in order to the Healer who also uses various methods.  Doctors provide help for they have much information at their finger tips to aid us.

There are times we need to go a step further and seek out other good information to help us.

Do you suppose that as we experience stress and anxiety that we lock our muscles and that our nerves get a message to tense up, preventing blood flow and messages from the brain to relax us ??

Thinking back I was reminded of a time a few years ago when my jaw locked.  I had trouble opening my mouth to eat and chew. There was another annoying symptom of a clicking that went up to my ear as I tried to open my mouth.

Making a trip to my chiropractor, I discovered that he also had a clicking in his jaw. His treatment to me that day did not help.

I was desperate. Next I considered finding a massage therapist who was able to do head and facial massage.

A telephone call was made to a RN nurse who also did massage. After hearing my problem, she told me of a little old retired chiropractor who did different types of treatments and suggested that I visit her at the assisted living where she was staying. A quick phone call and an appointment was made.

The elderly lady received me in her small room, and asked me to resist as she applied pressure to my outstretched arms. This was a method to “balance” my system.

As I think back to what she actually did that helped my problem, I believe it was this:

She asked me to curl my tongue to the roof of my mouth and press hard and hold it there.  This is an exercise that helps strengthen the jaw.

She had me touch parts of my body with one hand while keeping contact with the other hand.  Keeping contact seemed to be necessary. The next step was as amazing as it was weird, at least to me!!

She explained that our body with all its cells is an electrical system, and sometimes our brain gets lazy and tired and needs help getting awake.

Her instructions were to place my thumbs next to my ear at the point where the jaw opens and closes; while holding my thumbs at the joint, to begin to use my fingers to tap lightly on my head as far as I could reach.

By moving the fingers backward and forward for a few minutes the tapping continued. She explained that this exercise will help wake up the brain so it can give directions to the nerves of the face and jaws.
As I left that day, I was able to open my mouth and the clicking was also gone.

Who healed me? The answer is always the creator who made us, and we realize that He also gives wisdom to those who study and seek to help others that suffer with physical and psychological problems.

Searching for self help, I found this interesting demonstration on YouTube: It was the closest video to what my lady did for me.  However please remember to keep contact with your thumbs while tapping on your head.   http://www.videojug.com/film/how-to-give-yourself-an-energizing-facial-massage


This post was linked today with L.L. Barkat’s “In and Around Mondays” at: http://seedlingsinstone.blogspot.com/

Also linked to Laura's PlayDates http://www.lauraboggess.com/2011/10/playdates-this-moment.html
Do visit these sites for some awesome words posted there.

Don’t Loose Your Patience !

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Continuing with gleanings from our Pastor’s sermons on the Fruit of the Spirit, we consider the fruit, Patience.

Probably the most difficult of the fruit to obtain is Patience. Then we remember that:

Love is Patient
Jesus is Patient
God is Patient

We all desire to become more patient and so we must understand that this is a Godly trait.  We are placed into Christ where all the gifts and fruit abide.  He is in us and we are in Him.  The fruit is already in us when we receive Jesus, but it must develop and sometimes that is a slow process.

Rolled up into Patience is, Waiting, Hope, and Faith.  

In Life, there are many times we are required to wait.

At the Doctors office, we wait until we are called.

On the telephone we are placed on hold and given music to listen to.

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We do not enjoy waiting. In our human frailness we often say, “I want it, and I want it NOW.” We lose our patience.

In the Old Testament the word patience was revealed as endurance, long suffering, and keep on trying.

In the New Testament, many times the word was applied to those who suffered for the Gospel’s sake.

Winston Churchill was once scheduled to visit a grammar school. The children were nicely dressed and were waiting patiently for his profound speech. He went to the front and in his gruff voice said, “Never Quit, Never, Never Quit.”

The Faith Chapter, Hebrews 11 reveals the Hall of Fame as to those who refused to quit.  Many were faithful unto death. Today they are our witnesses cheering us on.

We have patience fueled by the knowledge that there is a living certainty and a promise of an eternal future waiting for us.

Understand that fruit does not grow over night, but must be developed.

We are a work in progress and God is not finished with us yet.

Oh, Lord, teach me to keep my patience when it is exhausted.

Thank you God for your continual patience that you show to me!


Linked up today at Hear it on Sunday, Use it on Monday. Please visit at: http://www.michellederusha.com/2011/10/hear-it-on-sunday-use-it-on-monday-see.html


Also linked to Sundays in My city: Do visit there as well!  http://www.unknownmami.com/2011/10/sundays-in-my-city-118.html

Cabbage Soup and Diet

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Although I thought her to be a bit strange, I really liked my co-worker who shared the space next to me at work.

One day she announced that she was going on one of those fad diets and by the end of 10 days she should have lost a lot of weight.

That caused my ears to prick up and listen and finally ask for the recipe. We like cabbage at our house, and we also enjoy a nice hearty vegetable soup, so why not try this!

At the end of the 10 days, she was no thinner, reason being that she does not follow through very well, and also she was cheating during break time. Those were the days that I brought to work “Home made Nut bread.” After all, who could resist my nut bread?

Anyway, they tell me the diet is fine, but that you should ask your Doctor first before going on one of these fad diets. The soup is good anytime you desire a lovely soup!

A couple of weeks ago, I decided to make this soup, since I had a beautiful head of cabbage, and also the other ingredients. The soup was delicious. Although I did not follow the rest of the rules, to loose the weight, I did loose a couple pounds (but probably have it back by now.)

If you crave a delicious vegetable soup and want to give this a try, I share with you the recipe along with the diet suggestions:

The Cabbage Soup Diet

Also called "The Dolly Parton diet," for reasons that are shrouded in mystery, this 7-day diet really does work--in the short term, anyway. And there's a great purity to it--especially in the summertime when it's wonderfully refreshing served ice cold. Ingredient proportions can be varied according to your likes and dislikes.

Okay, are you ready? Here we go:

• 1 head cabbage, shredded or chopped

• 2 large onions, chopped

• 16-28 ounces canned tomatoes, chopped

• 2 green peppers chopped

• 4 stalks celery

• 2 packages Lipton onion soup mix, or any dry onion or vegetable soup mix

• Dash of black pepper

• any fresh herb(s) of your choice, chopped (I used dried parsley and dried Italian seasoning

• 6 carrots, sliced

• 1/2 pound green beans, sliced on diagonal

• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar (optional) (I used apple cider vinegar

Put all vegetables in a big pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, stir in the soup mix (if desired), and boil gently for 10 minutes. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer until all the vegetables are soft. Stir in the black pepper and chopped herbs (saving some for garnish). Here I added a can of chicken broth and blended it in.
It seemed to need something else, so I added one tablespoon of sugar!

Eat as much of the soup as you like, as often as you like. Drink as much water as you like and non-caloric drinks including coffee, tea, and herbal teas.

Here's what else you can also eat along with your soup, and when:

DAY 1: All fruits except bananas.

DAY 2: All vegetables, raw or cooked. This includes baked potato with a LITTLE butter.

DAY 3: Fruits and vegetables, but no potatoes or bananas.

DAY 4: Bananas and skim milk--eat as many as 8 bananas and drink as many as 8 glasses of skim milk.

DAY 5: Beef, skinless chicken, and/or fish--as much as 20 ounces, total. You can also eat 6 tomatoes. And you must drink 8 glasses of water. Don't forget at least one bowl of soup.

DAY 6: Beef, skinless chicken, or fish and vegetables. Drink 8 glasses of water and eat at least one bowl of soup.

DAY 7: Brown rice, vegetables, and unsweetened fruit juice.

This post is linked with Ann Kroeker’s, Food on Fridays at http://annkroeker.com/
Do hop on over to her site and gather up some delicious and nutritious recipes.

Take a Deep Breath !!



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My husband tells the story about when he was a very young boy and he and his brother were both living with their mom and dad.

It was dark, and dusty shadows fluttered across the room as the boys lay in their bed. In the next room, mom and dad were arguing. Perhaps Mom was nagging and fussing would be a better term. Dad told her to please be quiet and get some sleep. Mom was known as a chatter box and keeping quiet was not her style, so she continued on and on... Yak Yakity Yak.

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Dad gave a final warning, be quiet or else, but the warning went unheeded. All this time both boys lay trembling in their beds, waiting for the next shoe to drop. It was not a shoe, for dad had a gun under his pillow (why I don’t know) and suddenly there was a LOUD BANG.

Abruptly all was quiet – not a sound anywhere. Both boys held their breath until at last they were forced to release all the air and try to breathe normal again. They dared not move or get out of bed to see what they could see.

It took a long while before the boys eventually drifted off to a restless sleep.

The next morning, there was mom smiling and frying bacon and eggs while dad sipped his coffee as he read the news-paper.

Fast forward many years later, Fact: my husband stops breathing in his sleep. He subconsciously holds his breath until he gasps and comes up for air, which usually wakes him up.

Science has termed this “Sleep Apnea,” and documents that this is wide spread.

Doctors have all kinds of reasons as to why this happens, and they are probably right, but I have always wondered if it had anything to do with the frightened reflex of that night during childhood.

My husband says he has forgiven his long deceased dad for scaring the living daylights out of him, but the panic attacks still continue to come on at times.

A few years ago, my husband and I went to a class at our HMO about getting some relief from his panic attacks. The doctor asked the class how they breathed. He instructed to place your hand under your rib cage and breathe normally. For most their hand did not move. All but one said they took shallow breaths.

As a guest to the class, I was the only one who breathed from my diaphragm. (Pat on back) A teacher in grade school taught us to breathe that way, and maybe that is why I do it.

Taking deep breaths on purpose can relieve stress. I must remember to do this too, as things do pile up even when you are "retired."

I am reminded that God breathed the breath of life into Adam.

May you and I be God breathed when stress comes our way and we panic at the anxiety and pressures of life.

Take a big deep breath now – It will do you good!!

Don't worry or be anxious about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Philippians 4:6

This post linked today to GRACE CAFE, Please visit there for exciting good words !! - - -And why not link your post to Joan's awesome new blog hop?

http://www.reflectionsofhisgrace.com/2011/10/big-fish-little-fish-guest-post-by-sharon-kirby/ 

Resolution to Think - - Before You Bite!

Resolution to Think - - Before You Bite!

Our two boys were mischievous and our youngest daughter was gullible.

On the ledge at the rear of our yard, I had planted several types of pepper plants. One plant was like a tree and the little, shiny red peppers were getting ripe.

image courtexy photobucket

“Come over here,” the boys said to Judie. “This is a candy tree. Pick one - - and take a big bite and you will really like it.”

Those boys knew better, and yet they were having a playfully, roguish time. The pretty plant with red peppers did look inviting, so - - - Judie happily picked one and plopped it into her mouth. The joy did not last even a few seconds until a loud cry for mercy bellowed from our baby.

The boys deserved, and received, some major time-out behind the kitchen door. This was our form of punishment as the boys got older.

image courtesy photobucket

They had to sit with their faces in the corner between the door and wall for five minutes, while thinking about their sin. I even had a timer to make sure they served the entire time-out. Then there was a mandatory apology to Judie, but by that time, she had already forgotten about the event and was contentedly playing with her toys.


How often are we tempted by something that looks good on the surface, but after one big bite, we discover that we have entered into great pain?

“Can hell really be this hot?” we think to ourselves as we wallow in our misery and wretchedness.

We might find ourselves in a “time-out” that seems to stretch into an eon, but it is actually only a short moment as far as God is concerned. God’s time is not like ours. His timing and His plans are best in the long run!

Why are we, at some phase in life, so dense and unwise? I wonder - - -

When we finally come to our senses, and rush to the place of repentance, we discover that God is already loving on us with His mercy and grace, and has forgotten about our sin.

Next time you are offered something that looks sweet and appealing;

Make a resolution now to - - - THINK BEFORE YOU BITE!

This post has been linked to:  “Changing the World One Word at a Time”  Please visit and check out the other great stories at:  http://peterpollock.com/

Also linked to A Pause on the Path at: http://www.shandaoakleyinspires.com/2011/10/desire-granted.html?showComment=1319562917909#c5190815864001778950

Shanda just returned from a mission trip to Thailand - you will enjoy her report.

and one more: Joan at Grace Cafe: http://www.reflectionsofhisgrace.com/2011/10/big-fish-little-fish-guest-post-by-sharon-kirby/

Keeping your Peace

“Depart from evil and do good; Seek peace and pursue it. “ Psalms 34:14

Continuing his series on the Fruit of the Spirit, our pastor’s topic of the day was Keeping your Peace.

Entered here are some gleanings from his sermon.

The third fruit of the spirit is Peace. All fruit comes from the tree or vine, and all the fruit of the Spirit is found in Jesus. It is impossible to separate the 9 fruit because they are all in ONE yet they are all different. Jesus is all in all and ever perfect.

Jesus taught in John 15:4, “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me."

Peace is often difficult to describe. “Peace passes all understanding.” “We see through a glass darkly.”

Pastor mentioned three types of Peace:

1. Peace with God
2. Peace with our fellowman
3. Peace within our selves.

Simeon the Priest stated that He had seen God’s Peace and God’s Salvation when he viewed the baby Jesus. Salvation brings us peace with God.

Jesus taught, “Love One Another” and this will bring us peace with our brethren.

“Peace I give you, not as the world gives.” We have peace through our faith and trust in Jesus which brings us inner peace. His peace.

2Corinthians 5:19 God was IN Christ reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

Paul began all his letters with Peace be unto you, Jesus said to the storm, Peace be still, Jesus appeared unto His disciples after his resurrection and said, “Peace be with you.”

The cross won our victory. Some one has said, about our sins, that God has perfect amnesia, and remembers our sins no more. Your sins were wiped away; we now have Love, Joy, and Peace. Sow to the spirit and reap everlasting life and the Peace of God.

The Hebrew word Shalom is understood around the world to mean "peace." "Shalom" is used to both greet people and to bid them farewell, and it means much more than "peace, hello or goodbye".... Shalom also means completeness, wholeness, health, peace, welfare, safety soundness, tranquility, prosperity, perfect ness, fullness, rest, harmony, the absence of agitation or discord. Shalom comes from the root verb shalom meaning to be complete, perfect and full.

(Jesus) Yeshua is called Sar shalom, Prince of Peace, which perfectly describes the ministry and personality of our Messiah (Isaiah 9:6).

In other words, the word shalom is a mighty blessing!

Shalom!!   Peace be with you!

This post is linked to: Michelle's Graceful site - - Hear it on Sunday, Use it on Monday at: http://www.michellederusha.com/2011/10/hear-it-on-sunday-use-it-on-monday_17.html

Prepare to Live

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Understandable when a woman is 99 and almost 100, and failing daily, that Hospice would be set up for her. That is what the care home is preparing for my 99 year old mother.

It is another thing when a woman in her late 60’s has a pain in her stomach that is so bad she goes to emergency. The Doctors there take x-rays and discover an inoperable growth that has twisted around other near by organs and the prognosis was; Prepare to die.

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They offered chemo, and radiation, but stated that neither would prolong life, and instead she would suffer very angry side affects.

Being a Christian, she made some quick choices and plans. First she decided, No Chemo and No radiation. Then a speedy trip across country to visit her children, and their families to say good bye. Still strong in body and spirit, she was able to listen as her daughters suggested a special diet to build up her immune system, and juices that have been known to assist cancer patients and “cure some.”
At home she put these diets into practice and also began to listen to a CD that a friend had sent to her with the Healing Scriptures set to music.

Honestly I have known of some amazing healings of incurable diseases by God, including cancer, but for some people it seems they believe in their head but not in their spirit. They know God can, but not if God will in their case. I do not condemn this lady, because she knows she can trust God. She is following what she believes is best for her.

Other family members, who live close by, visit and she is able to chat and play games with them. It appears that she has resigned herself to an accepted factor that death is soon to knock at her door.

Her doctor is a practical person, so he has set up hospice in her home. She is already receiving visits from a nurse and other care givers. The medicines her doctor has prescribed, give her pain management during the day, and a good night’s sleep each evening.

One thing I do know is that this sweet lady has parents and others once dear to her that stand waiting to receive her, and most of all, the arms of the Savior beckon to her.   

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I think about this, - - and am glad that I have not been given a DATE to die. Yes, we all know that death is inevitable, but just not today please.

Quite a long time ago, I did make my choice to assure my eternal abode “Heaven.” That being said; for now, I will live out my life here on earth serving Jesus one day at a time.

My hope is that I can softly encourage others to receive Jesus and His Eternal life.

May we all prepare to Live. Yes, prepare to live and not die.

Shortbread Cookies


 When my children were growing up, I always had home made cookies or cake for treats. Most of my cookie recipes have been handed down from my mother, relatives or friends.  That's how you can tell they are good!

With the holidays coming up, short bread cookies are always a delight whether plain, or rolled in chocolate shot or chopped nuts.

Personally we preferred these cookies plain and you will love them as we do.

For some reason these were originally named “Ring around the Cookies,” and I never knew why.

Perhaps it is best to simplify and just call them Shortbread cookies.

Shortbread Cookies

3/4 cup soft shortening
1/4 cup soft butter or margarine
1 cup sifted powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla
Mix together well and then add

1 1/4 cups sifted all purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup quick rolled oats

Mix together thoroughly and divide in halves. Shape into a roll 1 ½” in diameter.
Wrap in wax paper and chill one hour. Slice ¼” thick.
Bake 12 to 15 minutes at 350 degrees on a cookie sheet.
Serve with ice cream or enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.

This post linked with Ann Kroeker’s, Food on Fridays at http://annkroeker.com/
Do amble over to her site and gather up some delicious and nutritious recipes.

Falling Stars edited repost

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With all the city street lights it was too bright and it would not work for us kids. To view the falling stars we needed a place where it was dark and we could relax and pass the time.



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 As children we would walk several blocks up the hill the nearby cemetery, and lay on an area that was soft grass. The wait often seemed a long time, but our eyes would scan the heavens and before long we would see a star slide across the dark blue of the sky.

Shooting stars what were they? Were they pieces of a meteor falling out in space? Or were they Angels on a mission? What ever the answer, we were thrilled when we could watch the heavens display their own demonstration of fireworks.

“There is one,” we would cry out, and before long, we would view another one shooting across the sky.

In those days, our entertainment was simple and usually confined to street games, such as kick the can, red light, and hide and go seek.

When it rained, we played board games, or worked picture puzzles. In the evenings there were our favorite radio programs, such as Amos and Andy, Fibber McGee and Molly, and the comedians, Bob Hope and Red Skelton. I loved to read, so books were a favorite past time.

And then watching the falling stars, that was my favorite thing.  I felt closer to God on those nights as we scanned the heavens.  I would wonder what was beyond those many stars and the distance far-away into space made God seem a long ways off from us here on earth.

As I grew older I came to understand that God was not far away, but I could invite him into my heart and his promise was to never leave or forsake me.

I believe Jesus wants us to be stars (not the falling kind) and shine for him while we are here on earth!

Another promise in the Bible was one that Jesus said as he departed to return to heaven,
“Do not be afraid, for I am going away to prepare a place for you, that were I am there you may be also.”

The host of believers who viewed Jesus rise up into a cloud, and disappear before their eyes, saw the Angel of the Lord appear to them. The angel declared - - -

Acts 2:11 Why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.

In that day, Jesus will be the STAR of heaven as he calls all the believers to come home to be with Him.

This is a repost and am Linking up with Laura of Brag on God Fridays at: http://www.beholdingglory.com/1/post/2011/10/brag-on-god-friday13.html

Keeping a Job

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I understand that some people are jobless due to downsizing or the company going out of business.

Others have NO clue as to why they were let go!

There may be fixable reasons to keeping a job that are still unknown to the jobless person.

These suggestions if followed; will help you to become a “Valued Employee.”

1. Respect Authority! Follow instructions given to you and WATCH your words!!   My mom would say, "Pay attention and NO back talk!"

2. Do your job the WAY the company asks you to do it. They hired you to do your work according to their method of doing business.

3. Save your remarks as to how the job would be so much easier if they would do this or that. They did not hire you to fix their system.

4. Smile and don't complain or find fault with others on the job.  Keep your speach at a minimum.

5. Show up on time and don't leave early.

6. Do your work and leave your personal life at home.

7. Limit personal phone calls and no Face Book or e-mail at work. Keep your cell phone on silent and no texting at work.

8. Complete assignments given to you, when or before they are due.

9. Follow all company policy and rules of etiquette and courtesy.

10. Be willing to learn new skills including a new computer program.

I must add - learn to take DEEP breaths when you feel stress.  Most of us breath shallow and stress is relieved by the deep breathing. 

These suggestions are essential for keeping a job or perhaps keeping your next job!

I had a friend who I helped to get hired where I worked. She broke every one of the above suggestions. They told her not to change the colors on her computer screen. So what did she do? Yes she did. They gave her a task, and she suggested that they use Excel instead of their method. She told her supervisor that she knew more about the computer than the computer specialist. All this did not set well with the supervisor.

She was fired the next day.  Actually she seemed happy to be free - - but I was left with a red humiliated face because I had recommended her!

I wonder if God is sometimes embarrassed when we do not follow His commandments?

At least He does not fire us, because He is the God of second chances!

Please check out daughter Nancy's post "OUT of WORK" at this site:

http://songsatnight.blogspot.com/2011/10/out-of-work-need-job.html

Linked today with: Joan at Grace Cafe  http://www.reflectionsofhisgrace.com/2011/10/when-he-calls/ Please visit there to view other good words.

Watered Down Promises

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Thinking back when I was a young child; I can remember enjoying my glass of milk with my dinner, and it was SOooo good. I wanted more, but half of the milk in my glass was gone.

Half full
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In my childish thinking I believed I could stretch the milk; so I went to the kitchen sink and added water to my milk.

Ugh what an awful taste. I had ruined the good milk by adding water to it.

At first my mother said I must not waste the milk, and to drink it anyway. However when she saw my tears of repentance, she relented and allowed me to pour the ugly tasting milk down the drain.

Sometimes, I am guilty of watering down the promises of God.  He gives us His Word with assurance that he will perform - - if we believe.

Abraham believed God and His promises. He moved into agreement with God and "He called those things which did not exist as though they did."

One major way Abraham called God’s promises into being was by giving God glory. Abraham must have had a mouth filled with praise, thanksgiving, adoration, and blessing to and for the Lord, and for His answer.

God counted Abraham’s request as already done, even though Abraham did not see the answer in the natural for many years.

The Apostle Paul was a man who had the "spirit of faith" and saw supernatural results in and through his life, everywhere he went!

Do you know that God wants us to have that same spirit of faith?

Are we guilty of watering down the promises of God and making excuses as to why it will not work for “me?” I have heard people tell me that they can have faith for others, but not for themselves.

 I wonder where these thoughts of doubt came from. Do you want to guess?

Yet some have also believed what I would describe as a watered-down version of the gospel, a gospel that promises forgiveness but rarely mentions the need to repent of your sin. “Join our church but it is OK to continue to live your sinful lifestyle.”

A gospel that promises peace but never warns of persecution, a gospel that says God wants you to be healthy and wealthy and never have any problems to speak of, is not the gospel of the New Testament.

As I think on this I remember that watered down milk does not taste good.

With that thought in mind, I must also understand that God’s word should be sweet to the taste and accepted at full value with all the cream and natural flavor left intact.

Linked today with “A Pause on the Path” Do visit Shanda’s site to view some good words at: http://www.shandaoakleyinspires.com/2011/10/satans-tactics.html

Wearing the Right Clothing

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Many times in life, we prefer options without obligations. Variety of places to shop, do as we please, to not always obey the rules. As Frank Sinatra sang,” I’ll do it my way.”

Actually, you see, it has to be - - God’s Way - - that's just the way it is. There are no options. You can't just do whatever you want. Which is something the unfortunate wedding guest of verse 11 discovered the hard way.

Gleanings taken from Guest Pastor Ken Gehrels sermon on Matthew chapter 22: 1-14

The setting was a wedding banquet and one by one the invited guests began to make excuse. They all had something better to do than come to the King’s wedding table.

In anger and desperation the King told his servants to go out into the highways and byways and compel those on the streets to come in to the wedding feast.

Tradition tells us that wedding guests were to dress in their finery. If they did not have the proper garment, one would be provided for them.

Here they came, some wearing a tux, others dressed in their best. They were showing respect and that they treated this event as a special moment. - -

Except one guest who decided, “What is the difference?”

So he shows up just wearing whatever. Track pants, a dirty T-shirt, and flip flops.

Nobody's going to tell him what to wear. He's his own man. He plays Life by his rules.

It's a huge insult to the host, a brash and highly improper push forward. And to this comes the reply "toss him out."  Weeping, grinding teeth in despair, darkness - that's the result.

The story Jesus told was not talking about fabric but about a spiritual action of accepting the garment of Salvation that God has provided for us.  We must be fully clothed spiritually before we can enter Heavens gates and enjoy the feast prepared.

We are reminded of the verse in Isaiah 61:10 New American Standard Bible

I will rejoice greatly in the LORD, My soul will exult in my God; For He has clothed me with garments of salvation, He has wrapped me with a robe of righteousness, As a bridegroom decks himself with a garland, And as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.

May we never take God's offer of His gifts for granted, lightly, or frivolously, but always seriously and with commitment.

If you have not already done so, please accept God’s free gift of Salvation and be clothed in His garments that he freely offers.

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Leaving behind the rags of sin, may we all be dressed in the freely provided, Christ-tailored garments of Salvation; and the Holy Spirit shaped robes of His righteousness.

Linking today with: Hear it on Sunday, use it on Monday,.at Graceful! http://www.michellederusha.com/2011/10/hear-it-on-sunday-use-it-on-monday-fair.html

When Dreams Become Reality

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As we grow older, our dreams often become our youthful wishes that did not come to pass.

Life happens and survival caused most of us to take up jobs or perhaps to pursue a career.

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As a small child, I remember our Missionary minded Pastor OFTEN invited guest Missionaries to speak at our church. Their stories were so exciting, and some even reported miracles as they shared about Jesus.  Many were brought to Christ and schools of learning were established to train native workers to preach in their own country and their own language. 

As a youth, I took it all in and I envisioned myself with a thrilling life as a powerful, missionary, preaching and teaching, and saving the lost!

When life kicked in, I found myself with three children to nurture, and preach to. Then as time went on, there were others who came my way, needing a word or two and those were divine moments. You never know how far a few words or your acts of kindness may go.

More changes in life, and now - - out onto the wild blue yonder go my stories posted on a blog!!

In the mean time, while I cannot go, I give monthly to several organizations and missionaries so that others may go. - - Now that’s a thought!

Think about this:  Perhaps you are even NOW living out God’s dream for you!  Did you ever consider that?

Then there are other ways you may get involved in missions. You can be an “Unlikely Missionary.”

As noted on the post below, there are short term mission trips you may want to consider. Read further as you visit at my friend Sheila’s site, - - http://bit.ly/oFMIub

Please consider subscribing to her blog by e-mail. God Spotting With Sheila: http://www.godspotting.net/

Keep on loving and serving the Lord, and allow Him to give you HIS dreams to fulfill.

This post was shared at Spiritual Sundays hosted by Charlotte at: http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/

And at: "Sundays in my City": Hosted by Unknown Mami at:
http://www.unknownmami.com/2011/10/sundays-in-my-city-116.html

Please do some blog hopping and enjoy these sites and the stories you will find there.

Here is a new hop I just discovered,  I shared there also.  Sister to Sister Hosted by Beck http://beckfarfromhome.blogspot.com/2011/10/sister-to-sister-prayer.html

Short on Cash? Guest Post by Nancy

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Oftentimes, when a person finds themselves without as much income as they once had, they discover that there really ARE things that can be cutback.

We have to earnestly ask God for help and then start the thinning process. Where can cuts be made? Good question. Practically speaking, it is a life style change that may stick long afterward.

While the list is not exhaustive, the following is offered as a good start.  

Basic Cell phone service is hard to come by but can be found. Cut all the extras and while you’re at it, cut the kid’s service too. Rationalizing will get you in trouble. Cut it and don’t look back.

Cable TV? - Basic service for TV and computer is still available. Net-Flix can go too.

Food? Well, Cook it at home (what a concept)....no more Starbucks for a while either! Eliminate pre-packaged food items and snacks. That will save a bundle AND you will be healthier in the long run from doing without the preservatives, additives and sugars. Your joints and liver will thank you.

Launder your own things. Purchase wash and wear instead of depending on the Dry Cleaners. Hemming a pair of pants, a skirt, or sewing on a button shouldn’t be too challenging for anyone who can text ninety-miles and hour, now should it?!

Goodwill and consignment stores aren't like they used to be. They are clean and modern. Many of these stores actually purchase new items from retail stores for 10-cents-on-the dollar, and then re-sell them at much lower prices than the retailer...and that's why you'll see Lots of NEW items! Humility might need a tune-up first.

Consolidate errands. Got 3 cars? Sell one! Let the kids pay their own auto insurance with money they earn. Hey, it’s a privilege not a right! They will appreciate getting to drive even more.

So many people pay for a storage facility. Now that’s sad!

When the garage is full of items not used in years, the kids’ rooms are bursting at the seams, it’s time for action. Yard sales, consignment shops, Craigslist or E-Bay - take your pick! Keep up the momentum or you will sink back into the oblivion of myopia.

Charge cards, cut them up, or only charge if you can pay all at the end of the month.

Lottery tickets!  Need I say more?

We have to earnestly ask God for help and then start the thinning process.

The key words are Ask God for Help, thank Him for provision, and then begin action.

Today I am hosting a guest post by Nancy.  Her blog site is found at:  http://songsatnight.blogspot.com/
You will want to bookmark her site and perhaps substribe to her blog.

Oak Bran Flax Muffins

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With this colder weather, I decided it would be nice to have some healthy muffins on hand for snacks or breakfast. I got out my favorite recipe that I like so well and I share it here.

I had recently ordered some flax seed meal from one or my preferred vitamin sites; http://www.vitacost.com/ They offer excellent products at low prices.

 However I was low on walnuts, and also out of Oat Bran, so my recipe gives you some suggestions for substitutes if you are also out of anything.  

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Our one apple tree is doing well, and gave us a bountiful harvest (One very large basket,) providing fresh apples, and I had a zucchini that needed to be used.  

Later I will core and peel apples to freeze. They will be enjoyed as apple crisp and apple nut bread and perhaps an apple pie.


Oat Bran Flax Muffins

1 1/2 cups flour
3/4 cup flax seed meal
3/4 cup oat bran (or substitute 1 cup quick oats)
1 cup brown sugar (or substitute white sugar and add 1 T molasses)
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
2 tsp cinnamon

1 1/2 cups shredded carrots (or substitute shredded zucchini)
2 peeled and shredded apples
1/2 cup raisins (optional also add 1/2 cup dried cranberries)
1 cup chopped nuts
3/4 cup milk
2 beaten eggs
1 tsp vanilla

Mix together the dry ingredients into a large bowl.

In a separate bowl, beat eggs, milk, and vanilla. Add the fruit and nuts.
Pour all into dry ingredients and mix until moistened.
Fill muffin pans 3/4 full.
Bake at 350 degrees 15 to 20 minutes.
Makes 18 medium size muffins.

This post has been entered in Ann Kroeker’s, Food on Fridays at http://annkroeker.com/   Do amble over to her site and gather up some delicious and nutritious recipes.

Seasons in Life

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We check the milestones usually at each decade; some are more difficult to embrace than others.

At ten years old we believe we are big stuff! We have the world by its tail!


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Twenty takes us out of the teen age years. Time for serious thought.

Thirty is usually a tough and thorny mile stone and often a depressing Birthday to celebrate! We are expected to act more matured now!!

At age forty we can be 39 for the next ten years!

Fifty is the time AARP invites us to become a “Senior Citizen,” and often there are discounts allowed for certain pleasures.

Sixty is the time we approach retirement and (hopefully) expect to slow down a bit. However, I sought a new career at age 60 and embarked back into the world of business to work another 10 years.

Seventy is very close to the allotted time that God says he has given to us for our days. I have joked that possibly at this age, I may be officially considered an “old lady.” NO, said one of my friends at church, 70 is still young.

Eighty is a rather large number and I cautiously approach it. However in my spirit I am still young although my body does not always agree.

Some may reach 90 and even 100. Certainly, milestones indeed

The Bible tells us that as our days, so shall our strength be, and I am claiming that scripture for myself. Body, soul and Spirit !!

Long life to you all, and may you enjoy good health, happiness and the treasures of many friends and loved ones all of your Birthday celebrations.

This is an edited repost and is shared at One Word Carnival. The word is Seasons.
Please visit and view other excellent posts there: http://peterpollock.com/2011/10/season-blog-carnival/