Hello my sweet girls! I thought it was about time to send a little hello and update along your way:) We just passed our 6 month mark here in Georgetown, in a way it seems like yesterday that we were at Grace and in another it seems like so long ago. Hard to explain. Please know that I miss each of you terribly and think of you often. Well, on with the update.....As I'm sure you already know we were very busy to say the least when we 1st moved. The day we moved was just crazy to put it mildly. It was also the day that Sydney seemed to completely lose the use of her right leg. God's timing is just impeccable! He put us here just when we needed it the most. So with getting things into place here and scheduling appts. for Sydney the 1st month seemed to go fast. The day of Sydney's 2nd surgery was a miracle in itself. The presence of God in the waiting room was undeniable. Sydney and I spent 22 days in Cincinnati. We also spent a little over a week at the Ronald McDonald House as a family, what a blessing. Being away for that long was so hard but what a blessing to have JC and Irene here at home with the kids. I am so thankful to have them! After we came home from the hospital things seemed even busier with appts to rehab a couple of times a week. In December Sydney was discharged from therapy until her halo is removed, what a blessing. We felt like we could breath a little!
In the middle of all of this we'd been attending Boone's Creek and just really loved the people there. They prayed so much for Sydney and we felt blessed to know them but still sensed a check in our spirits that we should be at Ashland Avenue after all, we were listening to the sermons on our way to Boone's Creek every Sunday :) So we've been attending there since the 1st of the year and it is truly an amazing place. The Gospel is proclaimed in every sermon and Sunday school class. Ashland is made up of a lot of large and adoptive families. We are blessed. No one has ever asked me "are they all yours?"
Chad is busy with work and seminary, he started Greek this semester and let's just say, "it's Greek to me".
He LOVES being so close to work, it's been a blessing.
Neil turned 15 in October, he's still as sweet as ever, I don't know what I'd do without his help! He's misses his chickens but otherwise loves it here!
Cole turned 11 in January, he's all about drawing and cartooning, he really is talented!
Haley turned 10 in January, she loves to read and anything American Girl! We've also started AWANA and she can't get enough!
Sydney is 8 today! She's doing amazingly well, walking and really doing everything on her own. She's in 1st grade and things have just started to click for her. She's learning to read and "getting" math! Praise God for all that He has done for her!
Lainey Beth turned 4 in October, she's still "boss" of the house. Especially where Neil is concerned. She's doing preschool and loves to cut things and shapes. She's always busy at something!
Noah is Noah!!! He's so different that everyone else....he has a temper, I wonder if it's from me or Chad? I'll let you decide ;) He loves hats and wears one all the time even to bed. And yes, he still has his blue "dada" washcloth. He's starting to talk a lot and says the sweetest things.
Let's see, for me....well, I turned 40 in October......I should just leave it at that;) I'm so thankful for each one of you. I've learned so much by knowing you and have been blessed by each of you. What a blessing to be counted as a sister in Christ! I decided in December that I was going to stop plucking all the grey hairs as it was leaving my scalp sore and tender...really. That lasted about 5 weeks, maybe. I broke over and colored it, those greys are stubborn they're already showing through but I have an extra box of color waiting in the bathroom;) I still have 2 chins, sometimes more sometimes less....let's see what else about me? Well, we're the proud parents of 2 wonderful adult children! Austin and Kayla, they're just a Godsend to us. Just can't imagine not having them, God is indeed good. They're expecting their 1st baby in May!
Well, I suppose that's more than you wanted to know.....love you all more than you know.
Your sister in Christ,
Sandy
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Friday, January 13, 2012
Who we are...
I am such a lover of music! Did you girls know that? Well, now you do! smile. If I hear one song that touches my heart then I will listen to it at least a hundred times. I love those songs that use Scripture and how that it will have such an impact on my life during whatever season it is I am going through. I recently have taken an interest in Kari Jobe, are any of you familiar with her? She seems fairly new and I know that Priscilla Shirer did an interview with her back in 2010 so I am thinking she may have a few years in music ministry. Anyway..moving along. My point is.. she has a new CD coming out on the 17th, I preordered it through ITUNES and cannot wait to get it!
Lately, I have lost my joy for walking. I have been in prayer about that. God has been showing me that He does care about the little things ladies. So, I have been downloading lots of praise and worship music to my IPOD and it has had such a tremendous impact on keeping me motivated. Do any of you have issues staying motivated to keep on keeping on? What is it that kicks your motivation into a new gear?
Okay, so the new tune that motivates me at this time is Kari Jobe's "We Are"
"We Are"
Every secret, every shame, every fear, every pain- live inside the dark, that's not who we are. We are children of the day.
This opening line to this song just settles my soul. To be perfectly honest with my prayer group, the last week has been...for a lack of better words...UNSETTLING.
Have you ever encountered, all the right answers still being all the wrong ones? I have, I have all week long. I see one of my children having trouble in her life. I don't see her physically because she is so far away. It is so hard. I want to fly in on my white goose (minivan. hehe) and save the day. But, you know for once in her time with me, I am not able to do that. I could bring her home and give her the confidence in knowing that I can make this more comfortable for her. OR, I can let her fix it. God has shown me that He will not fix those things that we can. We have to do somethings on our own. So in this situation, he has stopped me in my Mama tracks and said, "Stand Still". Do you all know how hard that is? I know you do.
So, knowing that every secret, every shame, every fear, every pain, as long as it lives in the dark it is not of God. Bringing those things out of the darkness into the light, can mean many things. It may be telling someone about something in your past, admitting you aren't living the way you perceive to be, or maybe we just aren't being the people of integrity that God has called us to be. Whatever that may be, we have a Savior that still saves us. He doesn't just save the lost, but also those that have lost their way. I praise Him for that.
"We Are"
So wake up sleeper, lift your head
We were meant for more than this
Fight the shadows conquer death
Make the most of the time we have left
We are the light of the world
We are the city on a hill
We are the light of the world
I know that we all have those things we call "ugly" within us, I can be performing the most normal of tasks such as shopping in IGA and someone will go out of their way to be rude and that "ugliness" will rear it's head up in me and it is at that moment I find myself having to make a choice. For me, it is reactions that are so hard to combat. Through this ordinary song, that I thought was just meant for me getting through a little 2 mile walk has shown me who I am in Christ. Sometimes, it's the little things. I am thankful for that. SO, how are you lady bugs? I miss our Bible Studies together, our one hour talks that turn into two and three. Let's pray...
Lord Jesus, I praise You today for the methods You use to speak to us. Help us to be watchful for a word from You. Help us to look for You in the little things and not just the big things. Be with all of my sisters and help them in their times of happiness as well as their times of sorrow. Let us never fail to praise You every day and in everything. In Jesus Name we pray! AMEN
I love you girlies so very much! ((HUGS))
In Him We Remain,
Shana
P.S. If you haven't heard this song, you can go to http://www.grooveshark.com/ and type in Kari Jobe, there will be a list of songs and you can listen to any of them you want. No membership required as long as you are just listening. Enjoy! :)
Lately, I have lost my joy for walking. I have been in prayer about that. God has been showing me that He does care about the little things ladies. So, I have been downloading lots of praise and worship music to my IPOD and it has had such a tremendous impact on keeping me motivated. Do any of you have issues staying motivated to keep on keeping on? What is it that kicks your motivation into a new gear?
Okay, so the new tune that motivates me at this time is Kari Jobe's "We Are"
"We Are"
Every secret, every shame, every fear, every pain- live inside the dark, that's not who we are. We are children of the day.
This opening line to this song just settles my soul. To be perfectly honest with my prayer group, the last week has been...for a lack of better words...UNSETTLING.
Have you ever encountered, all the right answers still being all the wrong ones? I have, I have all week long. I see one of my children having trouble in her life. I don't see her physically because she is so far away. It is so hard. I want to fly in on my white goose (minivan. hehe) and save the day. But, you know for once in her time with me, I am not able to do that. I could bring her home and give her the confidence in knowing that I can make this more comfortable for her. OR, I can let her fix it. God has shown me that He will not fix those things that we can. We have to do somethings on our own. So in this situation, he has stopped me in my Mama tracks and said, "Stand Still". Do you all know how hard that is? I know you do.
So, knowing that every secret, every shame, every fear, every pain, as long as it lives in the dark it is not of God. Bringing those things out of the darkness into the light, can mean many things. It may be telling someone about something in your past, admitting you aren't living the way you perceive to be, or maybe we just aren't being the people of integrity that God has called us to be. Whatever that may be, we have a Savior that still saves us. He doesn't just save the lost, but also those that have lost their way. I praise Him for that.
"We Are"
So wake up sleeper, lift your head
We were meant for more than this
Fight the shadows conquer death
Make the most of the time we have left
We are the light of the world
We are the city on a hill
We are the light of the world
I know that we all have those things we call "ugly" within us, I can be performing the most normal of tasks such as shopping in IGA and someone will go out of their way to be rude and that "ugliness" will rear it's head up in me and it is at that moment I find myself having to make a choice. For me, it is reactions that are so hard to combat. Through this ordinary song, that I thought was just meant for me getting through a little 2 mile walk has shown me who I am in Christ. Sometimes, it's the little things. I am thankful for that. SO, how are you lady bugs? I miss our Bible Studies together, our one hour talks that turn into two and three. Let's pray...
Lord Jesus, I praise You today for the methods You use to speak to us. Help us to be watchful for a word from You. Help us to look for You in the little things and not just the big things. Be with all of my sisters and help them in their times of happiness as well as their times of sorrow. Let us never fail to praise You every day and in everything. In Jesus Name we pray! AMEN
I love you girlies so very much! ((HUGS))
In Him We Remain,
Shana
P.S. If you haven't heard this song, you can go to http://www.grooveshark.com/ and type in Kari Jobe, there will be a list of songs and you can listen to any of them you want. No membership required as long as you are just listening. Enjoy! :)
Friday, January 6, 2012
THE BEST SISTERS EVER!!!!!
You are the best friends in the world( Deb and Wendy too). Thanks for all the prayers. Lets pray God does great work in TJ. Pray for Tigers health and most of all his spiritual well being!!!!!
Love you ladybugs!!!!!!!!!!!
YOUR SISTER IN CHRIST,
TARA
Love you ladybugs!!!!!!!!!!!
YOUR SISTER IN CHRIST,
TARA
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
PRAY FOR T.J!!!!!!
T.J has a court day tom. Pleas say a special prayer for him at 1:00. He also needs prayer for his salvation and a physical healing too. You ladies mean solo much to me. Lets keep this blot going I know for one have not been up to powr on it but now I can do it from home and have more time to read and comment. I love you Shana keep up the good work!!!!!!
YOUR SISTER IN PRAYER,
TARA
YOUR SISTER IN PRAYER,
TARA
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Happy New Year!!
Happy New Year Ladybugs!! I am so thankful for you girls! I pray that 2012 will be overflowing with the blessings that only God can give us. Let's do a lil devo real quick...
God delights in women who are...
Seeking Him
O God, You are my God;
Early I will seek You;
My soul thirsts for You;
My flesh longs for You
In a dry and thirsty land
Where there is no water. Psalm 63:1
This is my prayer for us in 2012, that we will seek Him always. Early..whether that be by early mornings, or to seek Him in the early times of our troubles but to seek Him first in all situations under all circumstances. I pray that our souls and our fleshly beings will long for Him like we would thirst for water in dry land. What more can we do? What else should we do? How often I will seek what I can do first and then when I find that it is out of my control, I will then seek Him. Why do I do that? I do understand however, that God will not do what I can, but even still I should always seek Him first in all things, regardless of whether it is a God sized task or a Shana sized task. Do any of you relate?
Have any of you made any New Year's Resolutions? Not those 30 day ones that resolve to be without sugar, carbs and/or chocolate (oh no not those) but the ones that resolve to have a better relationship with Jesus. To be in His Word every single day searching for Him. To be in prayer with Him throughout our day, seeking and searching for Him earnestly. Can we abandon our minute 2011 study and prayer time and radically begin 2012 living and breathing to have more and more time to spend with Him? What is your resolution ladyfriends? Share..
I love you all so very much! My heart bursts with love for you girls!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
God delights in women who are...
Seeking Him
O God, You are my God;
Early I will seek You;
My soul thirsts for You;
My flesh longs for You
In a dry and thirsty land
Where there is no water. Psalm 63:1
This is my prayer for us in 2012, that we will seek Him always. Early..whether that be by early mornings, or to seek Him in the early times of our troubles but to seek Him first in all situations under all circumstances. I pray that our souls and our fleshly beings will long for Him like we would thirst for water in dry land. What more can we do? What else should we do? How often I will seek what I can do first and then when I find that it is out of my control, I will then seek Him. Why do I do that? I do understand however, that God will not do what I can, but even still I should always seek Him first in all things, regardless of whether it is a God sized task or a Shana sized task. Do any of you relate?
Have any of you made any New Year's Resolutions? Not those 30 day ones that resolve to be without sugar, carbs and/or chocolate (oh no not those) but the ones that resolve to have a better relationship with Jesus. To be in His Word every single day searching for Him. To be in prayer with Him throughout our day, seeking and searching for Him earnestly. Can we abandon our minute 2011 study and prayer time and radically begin 2012 living and breathing to have more and more time to spend with Him? What is your resolution ladyfriends? Share..
I love you all so very much! My heart bursts with love for you girls!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Monday, November 21, 2011
Spiritual Ear Plugs?
Happy Monday Ladybugs!!! I have missed you gals soo much!! Lately God has us doing lots in the ministry and doing weekly posts isn't always possible but please know that I haven't forgotten you all and I am still very much in prayer for each of you daily.
Last night at church I was talking to a very special gal in my life and she told me the funniest story about earplugs. Apparently, her spouse is quite the snorer..(my hubby can saw some serious logs as well, so I could really relate) smile. So, she told me that she normally just wears one earplug in her ear at night so she can get some restful zzzz's. But, on this particular night she decided that in case she should turn over and expose the unplugged ear, she would just go ahead and put in both. WELL.. this is where it gets hilariously funny, she wakes up that morning and her hubby is speaking to her, she sees the lips moving but hears NOTHING!! As you can imagine the alarms began going off in her head screaming...I AM DEAF!!!! Thankfully, she quickly realized that she still had her earplugs on! hehehe... As I was standing there trying to not be so loud laughing at her funny tale, (our Pastor was in the middle of a hymn) I thought to myself, there is a blog in that!
So many times, God has been telling me 'specifically' that I need to do something, it may be witness to someone or change something in my life etc. but I will put in my spiritual earplugs and just decide to not listen. I have been reading a book by one of my favorite ladies in ministry and she has been taking me on a spiritual journey with Jonah. So, I would like to remind you gals of someone in the scripture that decided to put in his spiritual earplugs and not listen to what the Lord was telling him to do.
Jonah 1:1-3
Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah the son of Amittai, saying,"Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and cry out against it; for their wickedness has come up before Me." But Jonah arose to flee to Tarshish; so he paid the fare, and went down into it, to go with them to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord.
Oh my! It is embarrassing at how often I have high tailed it in the opposite direction of what God was telling me to do! I just don't have time for ONE more thing on my plate! I just need some time to clear my schedule and then I will teach that class or do that Bible Study! I need to clean my house and write that grocery list, I don't have time to go to _____'s house and witness to her! Do any of you all ever go through this? Anybody out there understand what I am sayin?
We busy ourselves by taking the blessings God has given us and we put them above our God. That ladies is called idols, and I have caught myself doing that very thing and though I immediately repent, the damage has already been done and what God meant for my good I disrespectfully said, "No thanks, not today Lord, maybe tomorrow." We like Jonah..run. What is your Tarshish? I know what mine is. My Tarshish is an island that I escape to just like Jonah that is a town filled with I don't want to's and I don't have time's. But I am asking you gals today to let pull out your spiritual earplugs, whether it be one or both ears you have plugged right now and listen to what our God is telling you, not asking, you to do. He always gives us the strength we need to do what He is telling us to do. I want to pray for you today my girls:
Lord Jesus, we just adore you Father, we are asking for you to help us to not be discouraged and to be women of spiritual maturity. Help us to pursue you through Your Word and seek your face every moment of everyday. We all lead busy lives Lord and You know our schedules Father. I thank You Lord for clearing my plate for me over the last few weeks Lord and I pray that if any gal reading this is struggling in this area You do the same for them as well. Thank You for Jonah Lord. I learned so much from him over the last few days and I praise You for knowing before the foundations of the earth that it would. You are the same today as You were when the creation began. No circumstances, decade or way of life can change You. I praise You for loving us so much. In the name above all names it is in Jesus name we pray. AMEN!!!
Last night at church I was talking to a very special gal in my life and she told me the funniest story about earplugs. Apparently, her spouse is quite the snorer..(my hubby can saw some serious logs as well, so I could really relate) smile. So, she told me that she normally just wears one earplug in her ear at night so she can get some restful zzzz's. But, on this particular night she decided that in case she should turn over and expose the unplugged ear, she would just go ahead and put in both. WELL.. this is where it gets hilariously funny, she wakes up that morning and her hubby is speaking to her, she sees the lips moving but hears NOTHING!! As you can imagine the alarms began going off in her head screaming...I AM DEAF!!!! Thankfully, she quickly realized that she still had her earplugs on! hehehe... As I was standing there trying to not be so loud laughing at her funny tale, (our Pastor was in the middle of a hymn) I thought to myself, there is a blog in that!
So many times, God has been telling me 'specifically' that I need to do something, it may be witness to someone or change something in my life etc. but I will put in my spiritual earplugs and just decide to not listen. I have been reading a book by one of my favorite ladies in ministry and she has been taking me on a spiritual journey with Jonah. So, I would like to remind you gals of someone in the scripture that decided to put in his spiritual earplugs and not listen to what the Lord was telling him to do.
Jonah 1:1-3
Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah the son of Amittai, saying,"Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and cry out against it; for their wickedness has come up before Me." But Jonah arose to flee to Tarshish; so he paid the fare, and went down into it, to go with them to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord.
Oh my! It is embarrassing at how often I have high tailed it in the opposite direction of what God was telling me to do! I just don't have time for ONE more thing on my plate! I just need some time to clear my schedule and then I will teach that class or do that Bible Study! I need to clean my house and write that grocery list, I don't have time to go to _____'s house and witness to her! Do any of you all ever go through this? Anybody out there understand what I am sayin?
We busy ourselves by taking the blessings God has given us and we put them above our God. That ladies is called idols, and I have caught myself doing that very thing and though I immediately repent, the damage has already been done and what God meant for my good I disrespectfully said, "No thanks, not today Lord, maybe tomorrow." We like Jonah..run. What is your Tarshish? I know what mine is. My Tarshish is an island that I escape to just like Jonah that is a town filled with I don't want to's and I don't have time's. But I am asking you gals today to let pull out your spiritual earplugs, whether it be one or both ears you have plugged right now and listen to what our God is telling you, not asking, you to do. He always gives us the strength we need to do what He is telling us to do. I want to pray for you today my girls:
Lord Jesus, we just adore you Father, we are asking for you to help us to not be discouraged and to be women of spiritual maturity. Help us to pursue you through Your Word and seek your face every moment of everyday. We all lead busy lives Lord and You know our schedules Father. I thank You Lord for clearing my plate for me over the last few weeks Lord and I pray that if any gal reading this is struggling in this area You do the same for them as well. Thank You for Jonah Lord. I learned so much from him over the last few days and I praise You for knowing before the foundations of the earth that it would. You are the same today as You were when the creation began. No circumstances, decade or way of life can change You. I praise You for loving us so much. In the name above all names it is in Jesus name we pray. AMEN!!!
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Happy Fall!
I love the changing of the seasons! It is such a pretty time of year and I always enjoy the cool breeze after having such a hot summer. I was thinking about that today among other things. The fall is a shedding of the old so the new can come along and it reminds me of how the Lord brings us into new seasons in our lives. Some of us don't 'like' change and some of us welcome it. I am a person that loves change. I get bored with the same ole same ole all the time. But, for others the change in something can be devastating. I am in a season of busyness, it is affecting all areas of my life and my situation isn't one that I can change myself. It is a God sized project. My needing a change is bigger than my want for change. Thankfully, we know that God won't ever change. Who He was before the foundation of the world is who He will be tomorrow and the next day; even when the world is no more. I think that we sometimes lose sight of that.
Exodus 3:6-8
Moreover he said, I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. And Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God. And the Lord said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry because of their taskmasters; for I know their sorrows; and I am come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land to a good and broad land, a land flowing with milk and honey..
Some of us are living in circumstances that are less than what we want for our lives. We have schedules that we are supposed to be in control of but find that most times those schedules are controling us. Our lives are full of appointments and deadlines. We are slaves to the clock and crying out to God to interrupt our schedules...How did we get this way? Are we prepared for this change?
I cried out to God this morning..I have asked Him to interrupt my life...He has surely seen my affliction and He has surely heard my cry. He knows my sorrows and is coming to deliver me out of the hand of my disaster. (Self-made ones too ladies) It won't be long, and I will be brought out of this land into a good and broad land, a land that flows with milk and honey...amen...amen
What are you ladies struggling with today? How transparent are you to others about the problems we are facing today as Christians? Are you too, carrying on as if all is well in your land? I want to know..I miss you my ladybugs....it's been far too long!
Praying for you all today!
I love you so very much!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Exodus 3:6-8
Moreover he said, I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. And Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God. And the Lord said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry because of their taskmasters; for I know their sorrows; and I am come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land to a good and broad land, a land flowing with milk and honey..
Some of us are living in circumstances that are less than what we want for our lives. We have schedules that we are supposed to be in control of but find that most times those schedules are controling us. Our lives are full of appointments and deadlines. We are slaves to the clock and crying out to God to interrupt our schedules...How did we get this way? Are we prepared for this change?
I cried out to God this morning..I have asked Him to interrupt my life...He has surely seen my affliction and He has surely heard my cry. He knows my sorrows and is coming to deliver me out of the hand of my disaster. (Self-made ones too ladies) It won't be long, and I will be brought out of this land into a good and broad land, a land that flows with milk and honey...amen...amen
What are you ladies struggling with today? How transparent are you to others about the problems we are facing today as Christians? Are you too, carrying on as if all is well in your land? I want to know..I miss you my ladybugs....it's been far too long!
Praying for you all today!
I love you so very much!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Day of Prayer for Sydney
Today we are having a Day of Prayer for Miss Sydney. I am asking all of you ladies to be in prayer today! I am sending out prayer emails to each of you and we will use them as a tool to be able to pray together. Let's go ahead and start now...
Heavenly Father, we praise you Lord for all you have been doing for Miss Sydney, we ask you Lord to be with her and comfort her today. We know that you have a blessed plan for this little girls life and we are so excited to be able to be a part of that. We pray Father that you will bless her Doctor's and give them the wisdom and everything they need to be able to work toward her healing, we know God that we cannot do what needs to be done to fix our Sydney and we ask that you guide us in what we can do and we pray that you will take care of the rest. Be with her family and help them to always rely on you. We ask that you keep her comfortable and help her to not be in pain. In your Son's Holy Name we pray...AMEN!!
Monday, August 22, 2011
Happy Monday!!
I have been in prayer today about what to post on our blog...for the last few weeks little Sydney and her family has been on my mind. I have spoken with Mine Sandy to see what I can do and she always tells me the same thing, "Just pray", so my family and I have decided to do a Day of Prayer for Sydney. On Thursday August 25th, my family is dedicating so much time throughout our day to pray for Sydney and her family. We will be praying specifically for successful testing and surgery. We are praying that the Lord will continue to give her doctor's the knowledge in medicine to work toward her healing. We will also be praying for her pain to be minimal and for Chad, Sandy and the children to be able to continue to have a peace about the road ahead. We love them so much and we know that God has that sweet girl Sydney in His hands. I just think that we all need to support them in every way that we can and what better way to do that than to be in prayer for them. I knew you Ladybugs would participate! I love you girlies so very much!
Sandy~ We all love you and adore your family! Even though we aren't just minutes apart anymore, you are still very important to our prayer group! Love you Sister!!
I will be emailing most of you in the prayer group and we will exchange prayers back and forth on the 25th!
Tara~ I know you don't have internet access that morning so I will be calling you and we will pray together by phone!
Memaw~ I know you are at work that day so I will call you too!
In Him We Remain,
Shana
Sandy~ We all love you and adore your family! Even though we aren't just minutes apart anymore, you are still very important to our prayer group! Love you Sister!!
I will be emailing most of you in the prayer group and we will exchange prayers back and forth on the 25th!
Tara~ I know you don't have internet access that morning so I will be calling you and we will pray together by phone!
Memaw~ I know you are at work that day so I will call you too!
In Him We Remain,
Shana
Monday, August 8, 2011
Happy Monday!
Good Morning Ladybugs!! I have to keep my post short and sweet today! This is our 1st day of Homeschool!!! Yay!! I am so excited to pour God's Word into my girls and watch them transform into God following gals of God! This was a BIG step of faith for Roy and I. Please say a prayer for us today as you girlies go about your busy work days! Let's get started on a little devotional shall we?
Ephesians 3:20
Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us... (NASB)
Jesus just fills me up! Overflowing!!!! I love that about my Jesus!! He does more than we could ever ask or think! Really read that girls. Jesus is able to do above and beyond what our human "fleshly" minds could ever think of. But there is something important that we need to see here. This is according to the power that works within us. How much of you does Jesus have? Are you in His Word every day, reading and praying and really getting to know Him? What goes into us is what comes out. I always think in terms of food. If I sit and eat Birthday Cake all day long...we all know what is coming out right? So, I was thinking this morning…I want to consume the Word of God to the point that I get plumb fat on it!! Let’s go on the Word of God diet! Three to six servings a day Ladybugs!! Get your daily servings!! Hehehehe!! I know your gettin’ a kick outta this Debbie..shew…anyway..
I was watching Beth the other day and she said something that has stuck with me. She said that she has a new technique for conversing with God. I just adore her! She takes her daily devotional verse from one of her Bible software’s, or you could just use any verse that you want... (GOOGLE daily devotions for women. Be careful though some sites are not very safe) then take that or those verses of scripture and copy and paste to a Word Document. While you are reading your verse, talk to God about that verse, example, “Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly, Lord, I love that you are big enough to do more than I can Father, beyond all that we can ask or think, My mind cannot comprehend the power than you have Jesus..Do you see what I am doing here? I just thought this was an awesome way to talk to God and actually be able to journal what we are talking about together! Oh! And make sure that you change your color your typing in so that you can look back and see what Jesus said and what you said! Love you girls so very much!!!
Praying for you gals today!!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Monday, July 25, 2011
Happy Monday!
Good morning Ladies!! How are you all today? I never thought I would say this but it is wonderful to have a cool rainy morning!! The heat has been unbearable! I was doing some reading this morning in 'The Purpose Driven Life' and I thought that I would share with you gals what I found.
Ephesians 1:11
It's in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ...He had His eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living,part of the overall purpose He is working out in everything and everyone. (Msg)
R.Warren goes on to say that before we were born, God planned this very moment, He planned the very moment that you girls would be reading this. I love that! I love knowing that He knows everything going on in our lives and He is not surprised or shocked with our prayers! He doesn't say, "Oh No Shana!!! I was worried that would happen!" He already knew it before the very foundations of the earth. I used to live life fearfully! I can remember being afraid of everything. It is so good to be set free from that. Are any of you girlies living in fear? I know what that is like and how crippling that can be.
Ephesians 2:10
It is God Himself who has made us what we are and given us new lives from Christ Jesus; and long ages ago He planned that we should spend these lives helping others. (LB)
We are not here to just simply remain. We are to make a contribution and we are designed to make a difference with our lives. We are created to add to life on earth, not just to take from it. This is called 'ministry' or 'service'.
Think about your purpose today ladies..what are we doing for Him today? Jobs, appointments, grocery shopping, schedules, and even changing diapers or pouring that second bowl of cereal..we should have Jesus on the front of our minds. We are created to serve not be served, what are we doing today for Him? My Pastor said something very important yesterday..He said, "If you can spend three hours (watching tv, playing golf..)then you spend three hours in God's Word!" Well said.
Love you Ladybugs! Show off our Lord and Savior today! Tell someone about Him...What else is so important that we don't have time to do that?
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Ephesians 1:11
It's in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ...He had His eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living,part of the overall purpose He is working out in everything and everyone. (Msg)
R.Warren goes on to say that before we were born, God planned this very moment, He planned the very moment that you girls would be reading this. I love that! I love knowing that He knows everything going on in our lives and He is not surprised or shocked with our prayers! He doesn't say, "Oh No Shana!!! I was worried that would happen!" He already knew it before the very foundations of the earth. I used to live life fearfully! I can remember being afraid of everything. It is so good to be set free from that. Are any of you girlies living in fear? I know what that is like and how crippling that can be.
Ephesians 2:10
It is God Himself who has made us what we are and given us new lives from Christ Jesus; and long ages ago He planned that we should spend these lives helping others. (LB)
We are not here to just simply remain. We are to make a contribution and we are designed to make a difference with our lives. We are created to add to life on earth, not just to take from it. This is called 'ministry' or 'service'.
Think about your purpose today ladies..what are we doing for Him today? Jobs, appointments, grocery shopping, schedules, and even changing diapers or pouring that second bowl of cereal..we should have Jesus on the front of our minds. We are created to serve not be served, what are we doing today for Him? My Pastor said something very important yesterday..He said, "If you can spend three hours (watching tv, playing golf..)then you spend three hours in God's Word!" Well said.
Love you Ladybugs! Show off our Lord and Savior today! Tell someone about Him...What else is so important that we don't have time to do that?
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Monday, July 18, 2011
Happy Monday Ladybugs!!
Happy Happy Monday to you gals!!! I have been on vacation for the last couple of weeks and haven't been posting...Before we get started I do have a few prayer requests, please continue to pray for my aunt and also my brother in law and his wife. I do have a praise! My other brother in law will be getting baptized on this coming Sunday morning! Praise God!! God is so faithful to His children! Also..I will be homeschooling my girls this fall and need lots of prayers! This morning I was on the phone with Memaw and just looked over my shoulder at the books lined up there on the book shelf and I had a mix of joy and nervousness that we are really doing this! Ok..so let's get started!
Philippians 1:16
They preach because they love Me, for they know I have been appointed to defend the good news.
Every parent dreams of the day when their child obeys without hesitation. If only children found pleasure in timing themselves on how quickly they could respond to a directive from their parents. One thing is uncertain-if suddenly our children woke up and began to obey us immediately with a happy heart, the emergency rooms would be filled with parents suffering concussions from falling backwards in disbelief! What is truly gratifying is when a child matures to the point of realizing the value behind obeying your directive. You see, when children finally comprehend that a parent's directive is for their protection,peace, or even their pleasure, they begin to obey without argument. But as the child continues to grow up, he begins to condition himself to obey because he trusts the one from whom the directive comes. Why the change in attitude? As the child matures, he sees the parents heart and knows they directive was given out of a heart of love.
WHY ASK WHY?
The same is true of every Child of God who receives a directive from God-the Child of God should see beyond the benefits of protection,peace,and pleasure that obeying God would provide and focus on the heart of the Giver. Therefore, the Child of God does not have to focus on the who/what/when/where/why/how of the directive, but simply trust the loving heart of God that is unconditionally committed to our spiritual growth.
GOD'S APPOINTMENT IS GOOD!
Look at the life of Paul when he was "appointed" by God to sit in a prison cell for two years. At the time, Paul was being used of God to spread the Gospel to unreached groups of people, so it seemed like a counterproductive appointment to all concerned. But Paul conditioned his heart to obey God because he had become convinced of God's great care and love for him. In hindsight we know that Paul wrote a large part of the New Testament from prison cells. We are still reaping the benefits from Paul's obedience to God's divine appointment!
BE ENCOURAGED TODAY!
We can trust the directives of God in our lives. Has He appointed us to witness to a family member? To a child? Has God asked us to minister to someone today? It may seem impossible or you may not believe that you are the right one for the job, but remember if God directs you, all you have to do is obey!
I love you girlie's so very much! It is good to be "bloggin" again! I am praying for you all each and every day! MAUH!!!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Philippians 1:16
They preach because they love Me, for they know I have been appointed to defend the good news.
Every parent dreams of the day when their child obeys without hesitation. If only children found pleasure in timing themselves on how quickly they could respond to a directive from their parents. One thing is uncertain-if suddenly our children woke up and began to obey us immediately with a happy heart, the emergency rooms would be filled with parents suffering concussions from falling backwards in disbelief! What is truly gratifying is when a child matures to the point of realizing the value behind obeying your directive. You see, when children finally comprehend that a parent's directive is for their protection,peace, or even their pleasure, they begin to obey without argument. But as the child continues to grow up, he begins to condition himself to obey because he trusts the one from whom the directive comes. Why the change in attitude? As the child matures, he sees the parents heart and knows they directive was given out of a heart of love.
WHY ASK WHY?
The same is true of every Child of God who receives a directive from God-the Child of God should see beyond the benefits of protection,peace,and pleasure that obeying God would provide and focus on the heart of the Giver. Therefore, the Child of God does not have to focus on the who/what/when/where/why/how of the directive, but simply trust the loving heart of God that is unconditionally committed to our spiritual growth.
GOD'S APPOINTMENT IS GOOD!
Look at the life of Paul when he was "appointed" by God to sit in a prison cell for two years. At the time, Paul was being used of God to spread the Gospel to unreached groups of people, so it seemed like a counterproductive appointment to all concerned. But Paul conditioned his heart to obey God because he had become convinced of God's great care and love for him. In hindsight we know that Paul wrote a large part of the New Testament from prison cells. We are still reaping the benefits from Paul's obedience to God's divine appointment!
BE ENCOURAGED TODAY!
We can trust the directives of God in our lives. Has He appointed us to witness to a family member? To a child? Has God asked us to minister to someone today? It may seem impossible or you may not believe that you are the right one for the job, but remember if God directs you, all you have to do is obey!
I love you girlie's so very much! It is good to be "bloggin" again! I am praying for you all each and every day! MAUH!!!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Monday, June 27, 2011
Happy Monday!
I am a great Aunt!! At 3 am this morning my sister called me and said "It is HAPPENING!" I rush down to Mt Sterling and sure enough it had "Happened" and again I was able to see one of God's little miracles. He is just beautiful of course and nursing like a champ. There is nothing any sweeter than a newborn! My baby fever started to kick in and I had to tamp it down. I kept telling myself, let it go, let it go. I don't know if I will ever be content not being able to have anymore children. I miss being pregnant and nursing so badly! But,I am not getting any younger. (Neither is Roy..LOL) So, moving on! I just really needed to share that with my ladybugs!
Philippians 2:4
Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others too.
Encourage Someone by Caring
When we experience a time of hardship, we often receive comments like, "I've been praying for you. Let me know if you need anything." This is thoughtful and we truly appreciate those prayers and offers to help, but what really ministers to those in the midst of trial is when the generic offers become specific actions.
More often than not, those with hurting hearts can't even verbalize what they need. When they hear, "Let me know if you need anything" they can't come up with an idea. But when someone says they have been praying, and they follow up with, "Now, I have been thinking about what you might need, and I would like to offer to take care of [x,y,z] for you this week." Why does this offer dramatically lift the spirits of someone in a hard season of life? Because this caring person took the time to concentrate and deliberate over how they could practically meet some specific needs. This speaks volumes to those with hurting hearts. It makes them feel like you sincerely care for them.
Praying for you Ladybugs today!!
Love you all!
IN Him I Remain,
Shana
Philippians 2:4
Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others too.
Encourage Someone by Caring
When we experience a time of hardship, we often receive comments like, "I've been praying for you. Let me know if you need anything." This is thoughtful and we truly appreciate those prayers and offers to help, but what really ministers to those in the midst of trial is when the generic offers become specific actions.
More often than not, those with hurting hearts can't even verbalize what they need. When they hear, "Let me know if you need anything" they can't come up with an idea. But when someone says they have been praying, and they follow up with, "Now, I have been thinking about what you might need, and I would like to offer to take care of [x,y,z] for you this week." Why does this offer dramatically lift the spirits of someone in a hard season of life? Because this caring person took the time to concentrate and deliberate over how they could practically meet some specific needs. This speaks volumes to those with hurting hearts. It makes them feel like you sincerely care for them.
Praying for you Ladybugs today!!
Love you all!
IN Him I Remain,
Shana
Monday, June 20, 2011
Happy Monday Evening!
Happy Monday Ladybugs! I hope you all had a blessed weekend!
Let's get started:
Philippians 1:9-11
I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ's return. May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation-the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ-for this will bring much glory and praise to God.
How many of you ladies have an encourager? Someone you go to when you need a fill-up...I would bet that this person is kind and spirit-controlled. I would say that they pray for you daily and tell you often that even though nothing was going wrong in your life at that time, they simply felt that God wanted them to specifically pray for you.
Roy and I have people come to us often and tell us that they have been praying for us. It just feels so good to know that there are people out there whispering our names in their prayers. They don't have to. They have people in their own families that are lost and sick, but yet they still chose to include us in their prayers. That is such an encouragement to us. It means so much to know who we have standing on the front lines of this battle and they are willing to draw their swords on our behalf. Praise God!
I believe that the Lord has us praying for others that benefit from our specific and spirit-led prayers. I want to encourage you gals to think of the name of one person who you would really like to see encouraged by knowing that you have lifted them up in prayer. Then begin a seven day commitment to offer up a prayer for them each day. On the seventh day, let that person know how the Lord has laid them on your heart, and what you have been praying for them about. Then hold onto your seat my ladies! The Lord is gonna show you just how timely and effective that your prayers were in their life during that week.
Know that I am praying for you girlies daily!
I Love You all very much!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Let's get started:
Philippians 1:9-11
I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ's return. May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation-the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ-for this will bring much glory and praise to God.
How many of you ladies have an encourager? Someone you go to when you need a fill-up...I would bet that this person is kind and spirit-controlled. I would say that they pray for you daily and tell you often that even though nothing was going wrong in your life at that time, they simply felt that God wanted them to specifically pray for you.
Roy and I have people come to us often and tell us that they have been praying for us. It just feels so good to know that there are people out there whispering our names in their prayers. They don't have to. They have people in their own families that are lost and sick, but yet they still chose to include us in their prayers. That is such an encouragement to us. It means so much to know who we have standing on the front lines of this battle and they are willing to draw their swords on our behalf. Praise God!
I believe that the Lord has us praying for others that benefit from our specific and spirit-led prayers. I want to encourage you gals to think of the name of one person who you would really like to see encouraged by knowing that you have lifted them up in prayer. Then begin a seven day commitment to offer up a prayer for them each day. On the seventh day, let that person know how the Lord has laid them on your heart, and what you have been praying for them about. Then hold onto your seat my ladies! The Lord is gonna show you just how timely and effective that your prayers were in their life during that week.
Know that I am praying for you girlies daily!
I Love You all very much!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Monday, June 13, 2011
Happy Monday!
WHAT A WEEKEND!!! Oh my goodness! I am still reeling from all the excitement! I went with some of the girls from Grace to the Deeper Still Conference and the Lord just absolutely knocked the polish off the toes of my flip flopped feet! Beth Moore has always been and is still my favorite Bible Teacher, but I now have a new favorite running right along with my sweet Beth, Miss Priscilla Shirer has just stolen my heart. She is just a sassy sweet girl and the love of the Lord just radiates from her. I am impressed as well by how she is juggling the ministry and raisin' all them babies! Anyway, for those that didn't get to go I just wanted to kinda summarize the conference and though I could never give it the justice it would require I will surely try!
Miss Kay Arthur taught on the love of God. We are daughters of the King. He loves the ungodly and the ugly...She talked about the benefits of using the Inductive Study Bible and gave us a little "lesson" on how to use this approach. I went the next day and got myself one and just adore it already!
Miss Priscilla Shirer taught on my addiction to chaos! This girl knew my name! Let me tell ya! I realized just how enslaved that I was to work....but after hearing this ladies, I literally heard the chains of bondage break off of me...I learned that it's okay and absolutely Biblical to take a "sabbath day" and if I take the gifts that God has given me and step over into my "sabbath day" I will be just like the Israelites and take more than my share of manna for the day and in turn it will begin to stink and become distasteful. I was right there. All of the gifts that God has given me to enjoy was becoming putrid to me because I was overworked and stressed. He never wanted me to be addicted to work, school or the ministry.
Miss Beth Moore...you ladybugs know how I love me some Beth! Well, she was all that and a double fudge chocolate chip cookie! I learned to think in generations! I learned that some of us were in the Lois group, the Eunice group and the Timothy group...It was such a blessing to have all those ladies praying for us and each generation. I learned three things:
1. God has a unique regard for generations.
2. We are each in our generation on purpose.
3. Each generation is linked to the other two.
I had so many questions going into this conference this weekend. I had gotten discouraged and went to this conference with a list asking "What about this Lord?" Just to tell you the truth, it was a total revival for me. I needed that. He is so faithful to His children. I can't wait to throw my arms around my Savior and show Him how much I love and appreciate what He has done for me. I got so much more than I expected and deserved this weekend.(Not to mention, I got to see Beth Moore in the flesh!)
The call that we have on our lives, may not be fully manifested in us. It may manifest itself through our children or our grandchildren. Every generation has a responsibility . Let's be part of a generation that seeks Him. Let's always support and encourage our christian brothers and sisters. We are all running the same race and fighting for the same cause...CHRIST!
I love you girls more than you will ever know. Whether we are minutes apart or hours. Mine Sandy, I know that our time with you is coming to a close and though I am sad because I will miss looking over and seeing you sitting on that front pew, I know that you are doing exactly what you are called to do and I am so proud to have had you for a "season" and if we don't get to see you much between now and glory, I know that I will get to spend my eternity with you at the feet of our precious Lord, Jesus Christ. However, I am praising Him right now for just sending you a couple hours away! LOL! I am praying for you all and cannot wait to see what you blog about as you set out on this journey!
I love you so much my Ladybugs!
Happy Monday!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Miss Kay Arthur taught on the love of God. We are daughters of the King. He loves the ungodly and the ugly...She talked about the benefits of using the Inductive Study Bible and gave us a little "lesson" on how to use this approach. I went the next day and got myself one and just adore it already!
Miss Priscilla Shirer taught on my addiction to chaos! This girl knew my name! Let me tell ya! I realized just how enslaved that I was to work....but after hearing this ladies, I literally heard the chains of bondage break off of me...I learned that it's okay and absolutely Biblical to take a "sabbath day" and if I take the gifts that God has given me and step over into my "sabbath day" I will be just like the Israelites and take more than my share of manna for the day and in turn it will begin to stink and become distasteful. I was right there. All of the gifts that God has given me to enjoy was becoming putrid to me because I was overworked and stressed. He never wanted me to be addicted to work, school or the ministry.
Miss Beth Moore...you ladybugs know how I love me some Beth! Well, she was all that and a double fudge chocolate chip cookie! I learned to think in generations! I learned that some of us were in the Lois group, the Eunice group and the Timothy group...It was such a blessing to have all those ladies praying for us and each generation. I learned three things:
1. God has a unique regard for generations.
2. We are each in our generation on purpose.
3. Each generation is linked to the other two.
I had so many questions going into this conference this weekend. I had gotten discouraged and went to this conference with a list asking "What about this Lord?" Just to tell you the truth, it was a total revival for me. I needed that. He is so faithful to His children. I can't wait to throw my arms around my Savior and show Him how much I love and appreciate what He has done for me. I got so much more than I expected and deserved this weekend.(Not to mention, I got to see Beth Moore in the flesh!)
The call that we have on our lives, may not be fully manifested in us. It may manifest itself through our children or our grandchildren. Every generation has a responsibility . Let's be part of a generation that seeks Him. Let's always support and encourage our christian brothers and sisters. We are all running the same race and fighting for the same cause...CHRIST!
I love you girls more than you will ever know. Whether we are minutes apart or hours. Mine Sandy, I know that our time with you is coming to a close and though I am sad because I will miss looking over and seeing you sitting on that front pew, I know that you are doing exactly what you are called to do and I am so proud to have had you for a "season" and if we don't get to see you much between now and glory, I know that I will get to spend my eternity with you at the feet of our precious Lord, Jesus Christ. However, I am praising Him right now for just sending you a couple hours away! LOL! I am praying for you all and cannot wait to see what you blog about as you set out on this journey!
I love you so much my Ladybugs!
Happy Monday!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Show and Tell
I have to say that I am back and in the mood to blog!! This is 3 in 2 days! Anyway...Obviously by the picture above you can see what I have been doing today! That's right! It's my freezer day...the pool is being filled so I cannot get outdoors with water trucks coming and going so what is a Sister to do? BAKE!! I love me some cookies...as you all can tell...(I did eat them with skim milk of course..uh duh..) So, because I have a new love in my life, I felt that it was only fair to "Show and Tell"
Ingredients:
1 1/4 cups of butter softened
2 cups white sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips (yep..that's right death by chocolate...GLORY!)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350
In a large bowl cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. Sift together the flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt; stir into the creamed mixture. Mix in the chocolate chips. Drop by spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheet.
Bake 8-9 minutes (10 for me) Cookies will be soft. Cool slightly on sheet and then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
Let me tell ya, mmmmm...my new love!
Get the ingredients and try as soon as possible my Ladybugs! You will not regret it! I promise! Let me just put it this way, if I could ever bake something for my sweet Jesus, this would be the cookie.
Love you as usual!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Beauty can be in found in the driest of places...
As I saw this picture today, I am reminded of how powerful our God is. He can take the most hardened, dry land and grow something so beautiful there. I love how our Lord will send us the comfort we need. I have a family member that is lost, she is not anymore lost than the next but for me I feel the need to say she is so very lost. I have been in prayer for her over the last couple of months and haven't seen even the slightest change on the outside. But, I know that God is working on her, and I know that ultimately the decision is hers. I do have faith in God and what He can do. I know that He can take the driest of places and put something beautiful there...He did it with me
Monday, May 30, 2011
!
Let's speak with our mouths full!
Psalm 51:12-15
Restore to me the joy of your salvation and make me willing to obey you. Then I will teach your ways to rebels, and they will return to you. Forgive me for shedding blood, O God who saves; then i will joyfully sing of your forgiveness. Unseal my lips, O Lord, that my mouth may praise you.
Happy Memorial Day Ladybugs! I hope that you all have had a day off to enjoy with your family! I sure did! I believe this was the most fun packed day we have had together in a long time. Glory!!!!
Have you ladies ever been in a conversation about a topic that you were so passionate about that you couldn't get your thoughts out quick enough? You might have felt like you had so much to say with so little time? What happens next is quite unpredictable because there is such a limited amount of time, and you are desperate to find the most potent words to make your case. I understand. I have been there. And what usually ends up coming out of our mouths is a jumbled, disconnected collection of words and emotions.
But there is one positive thing the listener takes away from your conversation. There is no doubt that you are sincerely passionate about what you know and believe regarding that particular topic.
You'll have too much to say!
What is so amazing about our God is that He relishes the idea of seeing His people so passionate about spiritual things. He is delighted that at times we can hardly contain ourselves. In fact, I believe God must have a spiritual switch that triggers this reaction in our lives. And when He flips the switch, it immediately opens our mouths with passionate praises. The spiritual mechanism that produces praise is forgiveness!
Allow forgiveness to spark passionate praise!
Have you noticed the correlation between the forgiveness that David received from God and his instant response to sing praises and teach others about the goodness of God? Don't miss this beautiful picture of how God forgives. You'll quickly see how forgiveness of sins opens David's mouth to teach,sing, and praise God. David said:
vs.12 "Restore me...then I will teach your ways!"
vs.14 "Forgive me...then I will joyfully sing!"
vs.15 "Unseal my lips...my mouth will praise You!"
Be Encouraged today!
You have been forgiven in order to once again teach others of the perfect and protective ways of God. You have been forgiven in order to unlock your lips to freely praise again! Today, let's take a moment to confess our sins and to thank God for His goodness. Then start SINGING!!
I love you Ladies! Know that everyday you are in my prayers.
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Psalm 51:12-15
Restore to me the joy of your salvation and make me willing to obey you. Then I will teach your ways to rebels, and they will return to you. Forgive me for shedding blood, O God who saves; then i will joyfully sing of your forgiveness. Unseal my lips, O Lord, that my mouth may praise you.
Happy Memorial Day Ladybugs! I hope that you all have had a day off to enjoy with your family! I sure did! I believe this was the most fun packed day we have had together in a long time. Glory!!!!
Have you ladies ever been in a conversation about a topic that you were so passionate about that you couldn't get your thoughts out quick enough? You might have felt like you had so much to say with so little time? What happens next is quite unpredictable because there is such a limited amount of time, and you are desperate to find the most potent words to make your case. I understand. I have been there. And what usually ends up coming out of our mouths is a jumbled, disconnected collection of words and emotions.
But there is one positive thing the listener takes away from your conversation. There is no doubt that you are sincerely passionate about what you know and believe regarding that particular topic.
You'll have too much to say!
What is so amazing about our God is that He relishes the idea of seeing His people so passionate about spiritual things. He is delighted that at times we can hardly contain ourselves. In fact, I believe God must have a spiritual switch that triggers this reaction in our lives. And when He flips the switch, it immediately opens our mouths with passionate praises. The spiritual mechanism that produces praise is forgiveness!
Allow forgiveness to spark passionate praise!
Have you noticed the correlation between the forgiveness that David received from God and his instant response to sing praises and teach others about the goodness of God? Don't miss this beautiful picture of how God forgives. You'll quickly see how forgiveness of sins opens David's mouth to teach,sing, and praise God. David said:
vs.12 "Restore me...then I will teach your ways!"
vs.14 "Forgive me...then I will joyfully sing!"
vs.15 "Unseal my lips...my mouth will praise You!"
Be Encouraged today!
You have been forgiven in order to once again teach others of the perfect and protective ways of God. You have been forgiven in order to unlock your lips to freely praise again! Today, let's take a moment to confess our sins and to thank God for His goodness. Then start SINGING!!
I love you Ladies! Know that everyday you are in my prayers.
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Monday, May 23, 2011
Happy Monday!
Happy Monday Ladybugs! I pray that you all are enjoying the Revival as much as I am! I know that the opposition has been fierce at my house! How about you gals? It seems like it is just one thing after another...anyway, it is what it is! That's all I'm gonna say about that! I did love how that Brother Chuck pointed out us needing to encourage one another and to love one another. (Lightbuld moment for me)
Let's get started:
Philippians 2:4
Each of you should look not to only your own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Let's encourage someone by caring.
When we are experiencing hardships, we often recieve comments like,"I've been praying for you. Let me know if you need anything." This is thoughtful and we truly apprecieate those prayers and offers to help, but what really ministers to those in the midst of trials is when the offers become specific actions. More often than not, those with hurting hearts can't even verbalize what they need. When they hear,"Let me know if you need anything," they can't come up with an idea. But when someones says that they have been praying, and they follow up with,"Now, I have been thinking about what you might need and I would like to offer to take care of...for you this week." Why does this offer dramatically lift the spirits of someone in a hard season of life? Because this caring peron took the time to concentrate and deliberate over how they could practically meet some specific needs.This speaks volumes to those with hurting hearts.
When Paul was instructing some believers to encourage others through their actions, he used a very interesting word that caused them to ponder exactly the type of encouragement Paul had in mind. The words "look" and "take an interest" are very good translations of Paul's unique word. His word was the original word from which we get our word "telescope!" Just as a telescope focuses in on an object in order to see the miniscule intricacies and details, we too are to concentrate and "zoom in" on the needs of others.
The same word also implies that this action of honing in on the needs of others is to be continual, constant, ongoing actions. It implies that we should "be on the lookout" for the specific needs of others.
Let's be that person today, that is remembered for thinking through what another person could possibly need druing their challenging season of life. Think about their daily routine, if they have childcare needs, how their meal plans have been interrupted, etc. Then offer specific support to meake them and make yourself available at a moments notice. Be on the lookout for folks in need and be intentional about offering your concentrated and continual support. And watch God infuse their heart with an unforgettable example of how they too can encourage others through their actions in the future.
Let's Pray:
Heavenly Father, we love and adore you our sweet Savior. Help us Lord to learn to be encouragers and not discouragers. Help us Father to always be on the lookout for the needs of the people around us. Help us to let You shine through us daily. Thank You for all the blessings and the confirmations that You give us. We are not worthy Lord but we take it as a gift and hold it in our hearts. Thank You Jesus! All these things we ask in Your Name! Amen!!!
Love you Ladybugs!!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Let's get started:
Philippians 2:4
Each of you should look not to only your own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Let's encourage someone by caring.
When we are experiencing hardships, we often recieve comments like,"I've been praying for you. Let me know if you need anything." This is thoughtful and we truly apprecieate those prayers and offers to help, but what really ministers to those in the midst of trials is when the offers become specific actions. More often than not, those with hurting hearts can't even verbalize what they need. When they hear,"Let me know if you need anything," they can't come up with an idea. But when someones says that they have been praying, and they follow up with,"Now, I have been thinking about what you might need and I would like to offer to take care of...for you this week." Why does this offer dramatically lift the spirits of someone in a hard season of life? Because this caring peron took the time to concentrate and deliberate over how they could practically meet some specific needs.This speaks volumes to those with hurting hearts.
When Paul was instructing some believers to encourage others through their actions, he used a very interesting word that caused them to ponder exactly the type of encouragement Paul had in mind. The words "look" and "take an interest" are very good translations of Paul's unique word. His word was the original word from which we get our word "telescope!" Just as a telescope focuses in on an object in order to see the miniscule intricacies and details, we too are to concentrate and "zoom in" on the needs of others.
The same word also implies that this action of honing in on the needs of others is to be continual, constant, ongoing actions. It implies that we should "be on the lookout" for the specific needs of others.
Let's be that person today, that is remembered for thinking through what another person could possibly need druing their challenging season of life. Think about their daily routine, if they have childcare needs, how their meal plans have been interrupted, etc. Then offer specific support to meake them and make yourself available at a moments notice. Be on the lookout for folks in need and be intentional about offering your concentrated and continual support. And watch God infuse their heart with an unforgettable example of how they too can encourage others through their actions in the future.
Let's Pray:
Heavenly Father, we love and adore you our sweet Savior. Help us Lord to learn to be encouragers and not discouragers. Help us Father to always be on the lookout for the needs of the people around us. Help us to let You shine through us daily. Thank You for all the blessings and the confirmations that You give us. We are not worthy Lord but we take it as a gift and hold it in our hearts. Thank You Jesus! All these things we ask in Your Name! Amen!!!
Love you Ladybugs!!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Monday, May 16, 2011
Happy Monday!
Good rainy Monday to you Ladies! I think that I have kinda lost you all in my Happy Mondays...SO, I will do some different kinds of devotionals with you girls and try to "reel" you all back in. This is actually the second time I am doing this blog this morning...I hit publish post and nothing...it took me right back to my sign in!! Argghhhh! I did scream...just like that...and then I took the kids to the bus stop..here I am again though, I will just start over. Maybe the Lord thought I needed to read it again, maybe I didn't get it the first time around. Oh well, it is what it is, let's get started, again...
Colossians 1:17
He existed before anything else, and He holds all creation together.
God never called us to control the world. He never has and He never will! To ask you to do so would be to call on you to perform a task that is reserved for only God Himself. In the same way, He also never intended for us to balance everything in our lives and in the lives of our friends and family all by ourselves. There is only one person who is able to manage all of these things-God alone. Our shoulders are not broad enough, nor strong enough to balance the weight of the world-and God knows that. But we can be encouraged, His shoulders are more than able to carry all of it!
So, let's take a load off. Let's take off the load that is unnecessarily burdening us. As Christians, we have never been called by God to bear any burden, perform any task, lead any group of believers, manipulate any situation to produce a certain outcome, or make any decision that God Himself has not purposed and equipped us to do. And once we remove these unnecessary burdens off of our shoulders, the faster we will grow in wisdom.
It has taken me a long time to realize that when I say "no", that doesn't mean that I am "shrugging off" my responsibilities. I thought that when you are in the ministry, you had to always say "YES!" I just read that by saying no, we are showing a level of spiritual wisdom. When we extract the unnecessary burdens from our lives and discipline ourselves to focus only on what God expects from us, we will become more efficient in our time-management. We will also experience a greater sense of accomplishment. Most importantly, those around us will not feel the spill-over of our emotional frustrations like they do when we are striving to perform the impossible.
Today ladybugs--- let's make a list of everything weighing heavy on us, be specific. The more detailed the better. After it is complete, scratch out every single item that is out of our control, the ones that only God can take care of. Mark them out completely- so completely that you cannot even read what you have written! Then read the items that remain on your list. I believe that the remaining items will be things that are just between us and God.
Let's be encouraged today:
Live to the fullest, within the parameters God has set up for us. Live within His expectations. Focus on what He has called you to do, and do not burden yourself with things that He has reserved only for Himself.
Let's Pray:
Heavenly Father, we love You Lord and we praise You for this devotional today. Help us Father to give You what only You can take care of. Help us to give You the unnecessary burdens Lord, and do what You have called us to do. Not what we have called ourselves to do.Help us to get back to where we started with You Lord! In Your Son Jesus' name... AMEN!!!
Love you gals! Know that I am in prayer for you all today!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Colossians 1:17
He existed before anything else, and He holds all creation together.
God never called us to control the world. He never has and He never will! To ask you to do so would be to call on you to perform a task that is reserved for only God Himself. In the same way, He also never intended for us to balance everything in our lives and in the lives of our friends and family all by ourselves. There is only one person who is able to manage all of these things-God alone. Our shoulders are not broad enough, nor strong enough to balance the weight of the world-and God knows that. But we can be encouraged, His shoulders are more than able to carry all of it!
So, let's take a load off. Let's take off the load that is unnecessarily burdening us. As Christians, we have never been called by God to bear any burden, perform any task, lead any group of believers, manipulate any situation to produce a certain outcome, or make any decision that God Himself has not purposed and equipped us to do. And once we remove these unnecessary burdens off of our shoulders, the faster we will grow in wisdom.
It has taken me a long time to realize that when I say "no", that doesn't mean that I am "shrugging off" my responsibilities. I thought that when you are in the ministry, you had to always say "YES!" I just read that by saying no, we are showing a level of spiritual wisdom. When we extract the unnecessary burdens from our lives and discipline ourselves to focus only on what God expects from us, we will become more efficient in our time-management. We will also experience a greater sense of accomplishment. Most importantly, those around us will not feel the spill-over of our emotional frustrations like they do when we are striving to perform the impossible.
Today ladybugs--- let's make a list of everything weighing heavy on us, be specific. The more detailed the better. After it is complete, scratch out every single item that is out of our control, the ones that only God can take care of. Mark them out completely- so completely that you cannot even read what you have written! Then read the items that remain on your list. I believe that the remaining items will be things that are just between us and God.
Let's be encouraged today:
Live to the fullest, within the parameters God has set up for us. Live within His expectations. Focus on what He has called you to do, and do not burden yourself with things that He has reserved only for Himself.
Let's Pray:
Heavenly Father, we love You Lord and we praise You for this devotional today. Help us Father to give You what only You can take care of. Help us to give You the unnecessary burdens Lord, and do what You have called us to do. Not what we have called ourselves to do.Help us to get back to where we started with You Lord! In Your Son Jesus' name... AMEN!!!
Love you gals! Know that I am in prayer for you all today!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Thankful Thursday!
How long has it been? Too long......
1301. ponytails
1302. our trip
1303. the "new" van!
1304. 8 seats!
1305. contracts
1306. LBAR.com
1307. Scott A.
1308. Haley's ham roll ups :)
1309. Lainey vacuuming :)
1310. a new chapter....
1311. kittens
1312. getting to see Jeff!
1313. Carl "babysitting"
1314. Marie
1315. loan applications
1316. butterscotch brownies
1317. muddy kids
1318. a water hose (for the muddy kids;)
1319. the aquarium
1320. our prayer group
Love you much!
In Christ,
Sandy
1301. ponytails
1302. our trip
1303. the "new" van!
1304. 8 seats!
1305. contracts
1306. LBAR.com
1307. Scott A.
1308. Haley's ham roll ups :)
1309. Lainey vacuuming :)
1310. a new chapter....
1311. kittens
1312. getting to see Jeff!
1313. Carl "babysitting"
1314. Marie
1315. loan applications
1316. butterscotch brownies
1317. muddy kids
1318. a water hose (for the muddy kids;)
1319. the aquarium
1320. our prayer group
Love you much!
In Christ,
Sandy
Monday, May 2, 2011
Happy Monday!
Good Morning Ladies! How is everyone? I took last week off to sort of "regroup?" I felt like someone or something had kinda "pulled the plug" on my energy and I just really needed to recharge. Still not full power yet but working on it...The last couple of months we have been going through an illness cycle at my house, and believe me, we go through cycles with the size of our family, the saying, " What comes around, goes around" carries an entire different meaning in the Hensley household. However, we are on the mend and I keep telling myself that it could be so much worse, so there you have it.
Let's get started:
Acts 14:1-7
Now it happened in Iconium that they went together to the synagogue of the Jews, and so spoke that a great multitude of the Jews and the Greeks believed. But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brethren. Therefore they stayed there a long time, speaking boldly to the Lord, who was bearing witness to the word of His grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands. But the multitude of the city was provided:part sided with the Jews, and part with the apostles. And when a violent attempt was made by both the Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to abuse and stone them,they became aware of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lyaconia, and to the surrounding region. And they were preaching the gospel there.
Reflection:
How should we determine when to trust God to protect us supernaturally and when to run for our lives?
What causes us to doubt that this is equally God's provision? Look deep enough to define some of the miraculous components involved using our heads.
Have you ever read something in the Bible and thought,"Oh my goodness! Those words were written for me!" I just had one of those moments! In the last few weeks, through the illness in our house, I have looked to heaven, and thought (sometimes out loud) boldly, Lord what is going on? Through all of this turmoil, what are you trying to teach me?
Between Paul's tenacity and Barnabas's encouragement, niether of them lacked motivation. I have been unmotivated...have you gals been there? I have been reading my Bible, praying and doing all the motions as usual but I lacked one thing..."Motivation"...I looked up the definition of motiviation, and this is what I found,"To provide incentive, to move into action." I am sure that by the time Paul and Barnabas could see Iconium in the distance, the were motivated. They knew that a new challenge awaited them. Perhaps more than they expected. Though they met opposition they still chose to stay for a long time and spoke boldly, in reliance on the Lord, who testified to the message of His grace by granting that signs and wonders be performed through them.(Acts 14:3) But then as things took a turn for the worse. They learned that there was a plot to stone them. So they ran for their lives!!
I was suprised to find that they fled in the face of the plans set against them. Shouldn't they have stayed and trusted God to guard them from attack since they were doing His will and preaching His message? Couldn't the same power used to perform signs and miracles be used to stifle their enemies?
I think that they were smart! I don't believe that they were acting out of fear. I think that they were responding out of wisdom and quickly at that! Proverbs 22 says that, " A sensible person sees danger and takes cover, but the inexperienced keep going and are punished." They were responding to danger the way that Jesus did on several occasions. Christ could have called to the ground, to swallow up His enemies and destroy them. But He chose to use another method. Christ did deliver Paul and Barnabus from an evil attack alright! He just chose to use their heads and feet to do it! Jesus ordinarily used natural means of provision. When He and His disciples were hungry, they usually found something to eat. When they were thirsty they went to a well a drew water to drink. He could have supplied anything they wanted supernaturally,but He chose natural means whenever available. He responded the same way to impending danger. He used His feet or sometimes a boat, and He departed. Whether God uses natural means or supernatural means to deliver us from danger, both are divine provisions. God supplied healthy legs for Paul and Barnabas to flee. I thank God for His natural forms of provision.
Let's Pray:
Heavenly Father, we love You Lord. We praise You today for your natural provisions. We don't have to have a supernatural act from You to know that it is You! Thank You so much for loving us today, thank You for loving us everyday and giving us the confidence in Your Word that never changes. Lead, guide and direct us Father. Help us to glorify You in all that we do and not ourselves. All these things we ask in Jesus name. AMEN!!
Love you girlies! Praying for you all always!
IN HIM I REMAIN,
Shana
Let's get started:
Acts 14:1-7
Now it happened in Iconium that they went together to the synagogue of the Jews, and so spoke that a great multitude of the Jews and the Greeks believed. But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brethren. Therefore they stayed there a long time, speaking boldly to the Lord, who was bearing witness to the word of His grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands. But the multitude of the city was provided:part sided with the Jews, and part with the apostles. And when a violent attempt was made by both the Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to abuse and stone them,they became aware of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lyaconia, and to the surrounding region. And they were preaching the gospel there.
Reflection:
How should we determine when to trust God to protect us supernaturally and when to run for our lives?
What causes us to doubt that this is equally God's provision? Look deep enough to define some of the miraculous components involved using our heads.
Have you ever read something in the Bible and thought,"Oh my goodness! Those words were written for me!" I just had one of those moments! In the last few weeks, through the illness in our house, I have looked to heaven, and thought (sometimes out loud) boldly, Lord what is going on? Through all of this turmoil, what are you trying to teach me?
Between Paul's tenacity and Barnabas's encouragement, niether of them lacked motivation. I have been unmotivated...have you gals been there? I have been reading my Bible, praying and doing all the motions as usual but I lacked one thing..."Motivation"...I looked up the definition of motiviation, and this is what I found,"To provide incentive, to move into action." I am sure that by the time Paul and Barnabas could see Iconium in the distance, the were motivated. They knew that a new challenge awaited them. Perhaps more than they expected. Though they met opposition they still chose to stay for a long time and spoke boldly, in reliance on the Lord, who testified to the message of His grace by granting that signs and wonders be performed through them.(Acts 14:3) But then as things took a turn for the worse. They learned that there was a plot to stone them. So they ran for their lives!!
I was suprised to find that they fled in the face of the plans set against them. Shouldn't they have stayed and trusted God to guard them from attack since they were doing His will and preaching His message? Couldn't the same power used to perform signs and miracles be used to stifle their enemies?
I think that they were smart! I don't believe that they were acting out of fear. I think that they were responding out of wisdom and quickly at that! Proverbs 22 says that, " A sensible person sees danger and takes cover, but the inexperienced keep going and are punished." They were responding to danger the way that Jesus did on several occasions. Christ could have called to the ground, to swallow up His enemies and destroy them. But He chose to use another method. Christ did deliver Paul and Barnabus from an evil attack alright! He just chose to use their heads and feet to do it! Jesus ordinarily used natural means of provision. When He and His disciples were hungry, they usually found something to eat. When they were thirsty they went to a well a drew water to drink. He could have supplied anything they wanted supernaturally,but He chose natural means whenever available. He responded the same way to impending danger. He used His feet or sometimes a boat, and He departed. Whether God uses natural means or supernatural means to deliver us from danger, both are divine provisions. God supplied healthy legs for Paul and Barnabas to flee. I thank God for His natural forms of provision.
Let's Pray:
Heavenly Father, we love You Lord. We praise You today for your natural provisions. We don't have to have a supernatural act from You to know that it is You! Thank You so much for loving us today, thank You for loving us everyday and giving us the confidence in Your Word that never changes. Lead, guide and direct us Father. Help us to glorify You in all that we do and not ourselves. All these things we ask in Jesus name. AMEN!!
Love you girlies! Praying for you all always!
IN HIM I REMAIN,
Shana
Monday, April 18, 2011
Happy Monday!
Hello Ladybugs! Happy belated Monday to you! I have a couple of prayer requests for you gals today...I have a friend that is really going through some trying times right now and I would like for you all to remember her and her family right now. I also am having some health "issues" nothing serious but serious enough that I would like for you to pray about it. I am so thankful to have you girls in my life! Just knowing that you are speaking to the Lord on my behalf is such a blessing to me. Let's get started while we still have some Monday left shall we?
Let's start by getting our Bibles and turning to Acts 9:10-25..It is alot to type out for me today, and since I am so late starting on "Happy Monday" I didn't think you gals would care to get your Bible's and read this one.
We'll stop and consider this verse together:
(vs.21)
All who heard him were astounded and said,"Isn't this the man who, in Jerusalem, was destroying those who called on this Name?"
Reflection:
What changes has Christ made in your life since you put your trust in Him? Even if you recieved him as a child, how is He continuing to change you...as recently as today?
How do you react to your seemingly constant need for repentance and refinement? Does it drive you crazy? Does it discourage you? Or does it comfort you to know that He's still willing to keep working on you? (Praising God right now for still working on me!!)
There are few things more precious to me than the expression's on my newborn babies faces as they were suddenly cast from the darkness of the womb into the bright lights of the delivery room. I can remember both laughing and crying with all of them, they all had this indignant look on their lil faces, as if they were saying,"Ok! Would the wise guy who turned on that light mind turning it off!!"
Many years ago when a grown man was born again on the dusty road to Damascus,a light came on that no one was able to turn off. We will soon discover many who tried. The Lord told Ananias to look for Saul praying at a certain house. The Bible doesn't tell us the content of Saul's prayer , but it does tell us what happened next. Ananias came to Saul, and...
Then he placed his hands on him and said,"Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road you were traveling, has sent me so you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit." At once something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he got up and was baptized. (Acts 9:17-18)
Paul's version of these events appears in Galatians 1:14-18. He was careful to tell the reader that he did not consult any man but went immediatly into Arabia following his conversion. Apparently Saul thought he'd better get to know the One who obviously knew him so well. He had already learned more about scripture in his young years than most learn in a lifetime. What he needed now was to come to grips with the Author. When his quiet exile with the Savior was over, he then approached the ancient city of Damascus. Strange thoughts had to have been going through his mind. He had first came here to profane the name of Christ and now he was coming to preach the name of Christ. He first came to Damascus to take prisoner the followers of the Way. In fact, we read that " Saul grew more and more pwoerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Christ" (Acts 9:22) This verse tells us 2 wonderful things about Saul:
1. He grew more powerful: The supernatural power that God gave to Samson physically, God gave to Saul spiritually.
2. He proved to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ:The word translated as "proved" means to cause to come together, to knit together. What did he knit together? The old and the new! He knit the teachings of the Old Testament Law and Prophets with their fulfillment in Jesus Christ.
Can you imagine how much differently Saul must have approached the city this time? Every step that he had taken carried a new signifigance. Damascus was northeast of Jerusalem, so Saul walked past the Mount of Olives and the Garden of Gethsemane. He walked through the city gates where his face was recognized instantly. The chief priests expected him to return with prisoners. Instead, only one prisoner returned: A prisoner of Jesus Christ.
Let's pray:
Heavenly Father, we love You so much Lord. Help us Lord to be like Saul, be a prisoner for YOU Lord and not for the things of this world. We get so caught up in our own comforts Father and in turn we lose our focus. Many of us Lord have battles going on in our homes that only You know the details of. Help us to put on the armour of God and be prepared for battle. I know that I speak for all of us when I say Lord, our hope, our joy and our happiness is in You Lord and not our health, wealth or any other worldly thing that exists right now. We are in the storms of life Jesus, we need You to guide us Lord, and as You are, help us to lead others to You Father! In Your Precious Holy Name We Pray...AMEN!!!!!!
Go ahead if you haven't already Ladies...raise your hands up and praise Him.
I love you so very much!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Let's start by getting our Bibles and turning to Acts 9:10-25..It is alot to type out for me today, and since I am so late starting on "Happy Monday" I didn't think you gals would care to get your Bible's and read this one.
We'll stop and consider this verse together:
(vs.21)
All who heard him were astounded and said,"Isn't this the man who, in Jerusalem, was destroying those who called on this Name?"
Reflection:
What changes has Christ made in your life since you put your trust in Him? Even if you recieved him as a child, how is He continuing to change you...as recently as today?
How do you react to your seemingly constant need for repentance and refinement? Does it drive you crazy? Does it discourage you? Or does it comfort you to know that He's still willing to keep working on you? (Praising God right now for still working on me!!)
There are few things more precious to me than the expression's on my newborn babies faces as they were suddenly cast from the darkness of the womb into the bright lights of the delivery room. I can remember both laughing and crying with all of them, they all had this indignant look on their lil faces, as if they were saying,"Ok! Would the wise guy who turned on that light mind turning it off!!"
Many years ago when a grown man was born again on the dusty road to Damascus,a light came on that no one was able to turn off. We will soon discover many who tried. The Lord told Ananias to look for Saul praying at a certain house. The Bible doesn't tell us the content of Saul's prayer , but it does tell us what happened next. Ananias came to Saul, and...
Then he placed his hands on him and said,"Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road you were traveling, has sent me so you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit." At once something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he got up and was baptized. (Acts 9:17-18)
Paul's version of these events appears in Galatians 1:14-18. He was careful to tell the reader that he did not consult any man but went immediatly into Arabia following his conversion. Apparently Saul thought he'd better get to know the One who obviously knew him so well. He had already learned more about scripture in his young years than most learn in a lifetime. What he needed now was to come to grips with the Author. When his quiet exile with the Savior was over, he then approached the ancient city of Damascus. Strange thoughts had to have been going through his mind. He had first came here to profane the name of Christ and now he was coming to preach the name of Christ. He first came to Damascus to take prisoner the followers of the Way. In fact, we read that " Saul grew more and more pwoerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Christ" (Acts 9:22) This verse tells us 2 wonderful things about Saul:
1. He grew more powerful: The supernatural power that God gave to Samson physically, God gave to Saul spiritually.
2. He proved to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ:The word translated as "proved" means to cause to come together, to knit together. What did he knit together? The old and the new! He knit the teachings of the Old Testament Law and Prophets with their fulfillment in Jesus Christ.
Can you imagine how much differently Saul must have approached the city this time? Every step that he had taken carried a new signifigance. Damascus was northeast of Jerusalem, so Saul walked past the Mount of Olives and the Garden of Gethsemane. He walked through the city gates where his face was recognized instantly. The chief priests expected him to return with prisoners. Instead, only one prisoner returned: A prisoner of Jesus Christ.
Let's pray:
Heavenly Father, we love You so much Lord. Help us Lord to be like Saul, be a prisoner for YOU Lord and not for the things of this world. We get so caught up in our own comforts Father and in turn we lose our focus. Many of us Lord have battles going on in our homes that only You know the details of. Help us to put on the armour of God and be prepared for battle. I know that I speak for all of us when I say Lord, our hope, our joy and our happiness is in You Lord and not our health, wealth or any other worldly thing that exists right now. We are in the storms of life Jesus, we need You to guide us Lord, and as You are, help us to lead others to You Father! In Your Precious Holy Name We Pray...AMEN!!!!!!
Go ahead if you haven't already Ladies...raise your hands up and praise Him.
I love you so very much!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Monday, April 11, 2011
Happy Monday!
Good Morning LadyBugs!! Is this the most awesome weather we are having or what!?! I love this time of year! I love opening the windows and patio door first thing in the morning...I wish you gals were listening to the chorus of frogs coming through here! BEAUTIFUL!! Let's get started! :)
Phillipians 3:12-21
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers,I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you.Only let us live up to what we have already attained. Join with others in following my example brothers, and take not of those who live according to the pattern we gave you. For, as I have often told youbefore and now say again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Chirst. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame.Their mind is on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.
Reflection:
Saul's life is a testimony to zeal misplaced and then transformed toward an eternal purpose. How does a sense of that purpose play into the activities you perform each day?
If you are regularly suffering from a lack of purpose and meaning, does the problem lie with the things you're doing or with the way you're doing them? Or both?
Let's end with some important thoughts on zeal. In the conversion of Saul, we see demonstrated that: a) we can wholeheartedly believe in someting and be wholeheartedly wrong and b) sincerity means nothing if it is midirected. Saul believed in his cause with all his heart, yet it led him down the path to destruction. Saul was sincere. As he stated in Act 26:9, "I myself supposed it was necessary to do may things in opposition to the name of Jesus the Nazarene." Christ not only snatched Saul from Satan that pivotal day; He also snatched Saul from himself-from his own misguided zeal, his own obsessions. He can snatch you from yours too. I am living proof. I couldn't count the times during any given month that I thank God for saving me not only from Satan but from myself.
Having studied the life of Saul, how can we ever doubt that Christ can save? Is anyone too wicked? Anyone too murderous? Grace never draws a line with a willing soul. His arm is never too short to save (Isa. 59:1). He can reach into the deepest pit or down the dustiest road to Damascus. Yes, some things are gray such as, " Why did He choose us?" But some things are still black and white- I once was lost but now I'm found, was blind but now I see.
Let's Pray:
Heavenly Father, We love You Lord and praise you today! We come to You boldly Lord and ask You Lord to lead us where You desire. May our desires mirror Yours Lord and may we follow faithfully , directing our zeal and passion for holy, eternal purposes. We thank You Father for saving us,not just from an eternity in hell seperated from You but also from ourselves Lord. All these things we pray in Your Holy Son's Name Jesus...
AMEN!!!
Phillipians 3:12-21
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers,I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you.Only let us live up to what we have already attained. Join with others in following my example brothers, and take not of those who live according to the pattern we gave you. For, as I have often told youbefore and now say again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Chirst. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame.Their mind is on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.
Reflection:
Saul's life is a testimony to zeal misplaced and then transformed toward an eternal purpose. How does a sense of that purpose play into the activities you perform each day?
If you are regularly suffering from a lack of purpose and meaning, does the problem lie with the things you're doing or with the way you're doing them? Or both?
Let's end with some important thoughts on zeal. In the conversion of Saul, we see demonstrated that: a) we can wholeheartedly believe in someting and be wholeheartedly wrong and b) sincerity means nothing if it is midirected. Saul believed in his cause with all his heart, yet it led him down the path to destruction. Saul was sincere. As he stated in Act 26:9, "I myself supposed it was necessary to do may things in opposition to the name of Jesus the Nazarene." Christ not only snatched Saul from Satan that pivotal day; He also snatched Saul from himself-from his own misguided zeal, his own obsessions. He can snatch you from yours too. I am living proof. I couldn't count the times during any given month that I thank God for saving me not only from Satan but from myself.
Having studied the life of Saul, how can we ever doubt that Christ can save? Is anyone too wicked? Anyone too murderous? Grace never draws a line with a willing soul. His arm is never too short to save (Isa. 59:1). He can reach into the deepest pit or down the dustiest road to Damascus. Yes, some things are gray such as, " Why did He choose us?" But some things are still black and white- I once was lost but now I'm found, was blind but now I see.
Let's Pray:
Heavenly Father, We love You Lord and praise you today! We come to You boldly Lord and ask You Lord to lead us where You desire. May our desires mirror Yours Lord and may we follow faithfully , directing our zeal and passion for holy, eternal purposes. We thank You Father for saving us,not just from an eternity in hell seperated from You but also from ourselves Lord. All these things we pray in Your Holy Son's Name Jesus...
AMEN!!!
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Thankful Saturday
1281. blue skys
1282. physical therapy
1283. biofreeze (medicine for tendons)
1284. Gods grace
1285. job
1286. God will for my life
1287. Do not worry about tommorrow!!!!!!
1288. good listening skills
1289. my testitmony
1290. FAMILY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Your Sister in Christ,
Tara
1282. physical therapy
1283. biofreeze (medicine for tendons)
1284. Gods grace
1285. job
1286. God will for my life
1287. Do not worry about tommorrow!!!!!!
1288. good listening skills
1289. my testitmony
1290. FAMILY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Your Sister in Christ,
Tara
Monday, April 4, 2011
Happy Monday!
Good Morning Girls! I hope you ladies are having a Happy Monday! Let's get started...
Acts 9:1-9
(Paraphrased)
Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord's disciples. He went to the High Priest to ask him for te letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there that belonged to the Way, whether it be men or women, he would take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. As he got closer to Damascus, suddenly a light from heaven flashed all around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul,Saul, why do you persecute me?" "Who are you Lord?" Saul asked. "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,"he replied."Now get up and go into the city and you will be told what you must do." The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone. Saul got up but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. For three days he was blind and did not eat or drink anything.
I don't know about you gals but I ask Jesus daily, "Why in the world did you choose us?" Our family is so disfunctional! With all of our failures and our frailties!
A the blinding light falls on the murderous persecuter Saul, we are left in the dark to understand why we have each been called. But our eyes are opened to the One who called. And we sigh and say,"How very like Him."
Lukes account of Saul's conversion is probably quite familiar to you ladybugs. In my mind, I can just see Saul strutting around Jerusalem, determined to make a name for himself as a hotheaded rabbi seeking authorization to arrest followers of Jesus in Damascus and return them to Jerusalem. He was on his journey when God intervened and knocked him off his donkey. Jesus asked Saul,"Why are you persecuting Me?" This encounter left a blind and very "taken to the woodshed" Saul being led to Damascus where he would hear about Jesus from a courageous believer named Ananias.
Would you ladies agree with me that no example could much better illustrate the statement that a person can be sincere in his beliefs yet be sincerely wrong? Saul knew it all, and yet he still knew nothing..
Let's pray:
Our precious Heavenly Father, We love you Lord and praise You today! I pray Lord that you will help us to see You in all things and not miss it when You are at work in our lives. Alot of us have sickness going on in our families Lord and we ask that you heal them Lord. We have physical and spiritual sicknesses Father that only You have the power to heal. I love that about You! I love knowing that I have a Father that with only a thought can move a mountain for us! We thank You for calling us to do Your work and spread Your Gospel. It is a privelage that we will not take lightly and will continue to give You the praise and the glory Lord. In Your Name we pray..
AMEN!!
I love you all and am praying for each of you today!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Acts 9:1-9
(Paraphrased)
Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord's disciples. He went to the High Priest to ask him for te letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there that belonged to the Way, whether it be men or women, he would take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. As he got closer to Damascus, suddenly a light from heaven flashed all around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul,Saul, why do you persecute me?" "Who are you Lord?" Saul asked. "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,"he replied."Now get up and go into the city and you will be told what you must do." The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone. Saul got up but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. For three days he was blind and did not eat or drink anything.
I don't know about you gals but I ask Jesus daily, "Why in the world did you choose us?" Our family is so disfunctional! With all of our failures and our frailties!
A the blinding light falls on the murderous persecuter Saul, we are left in the dark to understand why we have each been called. But our eyes are opened to the One who called. And we sigh and say,"How very like Him."
Lukes account of Saul's conversion is probably quite familiar to you ladybugs. In my mind, I can just see Saul strutting around Jerusalem, determined to make a name for himself as a hotheaded rabbi seeking authorization to arrest followers of Jesus in Damascus and return them to Jerusalem. He was on his journey when God intervened and knocked him off his donkey. Jesus asked Saul,"Why are you persecuting Me?" This encounter left a blind and very "taken to the woodshed" Saul being led to Damascus where he would hear about Jesus from a courageous believer named Ananias.
Would you ladies agree with me that no example could much better illustrate the statement that a person can be sincere in his beliefs yet be sincerely wrong? Saul knew it all, and yet he still knew nothing..
Let's pray:
Our precious Heavenly Father, We love you Lord and praise You today! I pray Lord that you will help us to see You in all things and not miss it when You are at work in our lives. Alot of us have sickness going on in our families Lord and we ask that you heal them Lord. We have physical and spiritual sicknesses Father that only You have the power to heal. I love that about You! I love knowing that I have a Father that with only a thought can move a mountain for us! We thank You for calling us to do Your work and spread Your Gospel. It is a privelage that we will not take lightly and will continue to give You the praise and the glory Lord. In Your Name we pray..
AMEN!!
I love you all and am praying for each of you today!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Monday, March 28, 2011
Happy Monday!
Happy Monday Ladybugs! Let's get started on our devotional for today!
Acts 7:54-8:1
When they heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit,looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. "Look," he said, "I see heaven open and the SOn of Man standing at the right hand of God." At this they covered their ears and , yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul. While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed,"Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Then he fell to his knees and cried out, " Lord, do not hold this sin against them."When he said this he fell asleep. And Saul was there, giving approval to his death. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem, and all excetp the apostles were scattered throuhout Judea and Samaria.
The first mention of Saul in the Bible is in Acts 7:58. Saul's zeal quickly took him on to active persecution of the followers of Jesus. Yes, Saul was there and he was approving of Stephen's stoning. The original greek word for approval is "suneudokeo." It means "to take pleasure with others." It is a word that is sometimes used by both parties in a marriage who are mutually pleased with something. Now, when we apply the original meaning to Saul's actions, the scene becomes a little clearer. He was pleased with their actions and they were pleased with his approval. It was a mutual admiration society. Saul was virtually cheering throughout the entire exhibit. He didn't just give his approval when Stehphen breathed his last. He cheered at every blow, like points on a scoreboard.
As Jesus watched, He didn't miss a single nod of Saul's phylacteried head. Remember, Christ was up on His feet at the time. (vs.56) Can you imagine the emotions He must have experienced as he looked on the two key players in the kingdom that day? On for Him and one against Him. One covered in blood; the other covered by prayer shawls. One who could not save himself from men;the other who could not save himself from sin. One dead body but alive in spirit;the other alive in body but dead in spirit. One loved by God; and the other loved by God. Grace, grace, God's grace.
Just a day in the life of a man named Stephen. A shooting star. He had one brief performance. One chance on stage. But it was absolutely unforgettable. As the curtain fell on his life, he received a standing ovation from the only One who really mattered. I have a feeling that seconds later the two of them hadn't changed positions much. Christ was still on His feet. Stephen was still crumpled to his knees. How sweet to imagine the first heavenly words he heard that day:"Welcome Stephanos, My joy, My crown."
Let's pray:
Heavenly Father, we love you Lord and we praise you Lord. We are so unworthy Father. Help us Lord to not fear death for your sake but to long for it. Help us Jesus to live to spread your Gospel and not live for ourselves. Help us Lord to live Radical lives for you. In Your Precious Name I pray...
Amen
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Acts 7:54-8:1
When they heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit,looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. "Look," he said, "I see heaven open and the SOn of Man standing at the right hand of God." At this they covered their ears and , yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul. While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed,"Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Then he fell to his knees and cried out, " Lord, do not hold this sin against them."When he said this he fell asleep. And Saul was there, giving approval to his death. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem, and all excetp the apostles were scattered throuhout Judea and Samaria.
The first mention of Saul in the Bible is in Acts 7:58. Saul's zeal quickly took him on to active persecution of the followers of Jesus. Yes, Saul was there and he was approving of Stephen's stoning. The original greek word for approval is "suneudokeo." It means "to take pleasure with others." It is a word that is sometimes used by both parties in a marriage who are mutually pleased with something. Now, when we apply the original meaning to Saul's actions, the scene becomes a little clearer. He was pleased with their actions and they were pleased with his approval. It was a mutual admiration society. Saul was virtually cheering throughout the entire exhibit. He didn't just give his approval when Stehphen breathed his last. He cheered at every blow, like points on a scoreboard.
As Jesus watched, He didn't miss a single nod of Saul's phylacteried head. Remember, Christ was up on His feet at the time. (vs.56) Can you imagine the emotions He must have experienced as he looked on the two key players in the kingdom that day? On for Him and one against Him. One covered in blood; the other covered by prayer shawls. One who could not save himself from men;the other who could not save himself from sin. One dead body but alive in spirit;the other alive in body but dead in spirit. One loved by God; and the other loved by God. Grace, grace, God's grace.
Just a day in the life of a man named Stephen. A shooting star. He had one brief performance. One chance on stage. But it was absolutely unforgettable. As the curtain fell on his life, he received a standing ovation from the only One who really mattered. I have a feeling that seconds later the two of them hadn't changed positions much. Christ was still on His feet. Stephen was still crumpled to his knees. How sweet to imagine the first heavenly words he heard that day:"Welcome Stephanos, My joy, My crown."
Let's pray:
Heavenly Father, we love you Lord and we praise you Lord. We are so unworthy Father. Help us Lord to not fear death for your sake but to long for it. Help us Jesus to live to spread your Gospel and not live for ourselves. Help us Lord to live Radical lives for you. In Your Precious Name I pray...
Amen
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Prayer
Please pray for my son T.J. he is having some issues that I think is a battle between God and Satan. Satan is telling him God is to blame for all the bad things that is happening to him physically and mentally. Pray for me for strength to be able to cope with his prognosis and always be a mother that he can trust and lean on when he feels he has no one that understands what he is going through.
Your Sister in Christ,
Tara
Your Sister in Christ,
Tara
Monday, March 21, 2011
Happy Monday!
Good Morning Girls!! Happy Monday too you! Let's get started...
Acts 6:8-15
Now Stephen, a man full of God's grace and power, did great wonders and miraculous signs among the people. Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen-Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia. These men began to argue with Stephen, but they could not stand up against his wisdom of the Spirit by whom he spoke.Then they secretly persuaded some men to say,"We have heard Stephen speak words of blasphemy against Moses and against God." So they stirred up the people and the elders and the teachers of the law. They seized Stephen and brought him before the Sanhedrin. They produced false witnesses, who testified,"This fellow never stops speaking against this holy place and against the law." For we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customes Moses handed down to us." All who were sitting in the Sanhedrin looked intently at Stephen, and they saw that his face was like the face of an angel.
Reflection:
What do you think it was about Stephen that infuriated the religious leadership of Jerusalem and the surrounding regions?
We enjoy being liked by as many friends as possible. But what does it say about us if we don't have any enemies at all, no one who is ever at least somewhat offended by us?
Acts 6:8 says Stephen was a man full of God's grace and power who "was performing great wonders and signs among the people." When Saul arrived, his fellow Jews were trying to debate the follower of Christ, but Stephen's passionate love for Jesus was tying a group of empty, legalistic Pharisee's in knots.
Many of us remember our own agony of emptiness. And right here on earth's miserable sod, Stephen was full-not just because he'd accepted Jesus as Savior, but because he had surrendered his whole life to Christ's will and purpose. The more Stephen poured out his life for Christ, the more Christ poured His life into Stephen. Stephen was full of faith, full of God's grace and power. Only a person full of the Holy Spirit can possess that kind of power Stephen displayed and yet remain full of God's grace. A person full of the Holy Spirit cannot be full of self. Pride never accompanies power in the fully yielded life.
When I think of the last 10 years of my life, I think of all the Christians that have helped "shape" me. When I get to heaven, I know first off, I want to see my Savior, but when I have spent a few centuries at His feet, I wonder who else I will want to see...I would like to take a basin and a towel and wash the feet of those who have meant so much to me here. I betcha that Stephen has a high place on the "wash list" of Saul of Tarsus!
Let's pray:
Heavenly Father, you are so precious to us Lord. I thank you so much for your Word Lord. Help us Father to live out our lives for you in a way that would be pleasing to You. Help us to always bear witness to Your Name during times of persecution and use them as an opportunity to praise You always. In Your Holy Name We Pray...Amen
Have a blessed day Ladybugs!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Acts 6:8-15
Now Stephen, a man full of God's grace and power, did great wonders and miraculous signs among the people. Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen-Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia. These men began to argue with Stephen, but they could not stand up against his wisdom of the Spirit by whom he spoke.Then they secretly persuaded some men to say,"We have heard Stephen speak words of blasphemy against Moses and against God." So they stirred up the people and the elders and the teachers of the law. They seized Stephen and brought him before the Sanhedrin. They produced false witnesses, who testified,"This fellow never stops speaking against this holy place and against the law." For we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customes Moses handed down to us." All who were sitting in the Sanhedrin looked intently at Stephen, and they saw that his face was like the face of an angel.
Reflection:
What do you think it was about Stephen that infuriated the religious leadership of Jerusalem and the surrounding regions?
We enjoy being liked by as many friends as possible. But what does it say about us if we don't have any enemies at all, no one who is ever at least somewhat offended by us?
Acts 6:8 says Stephen was a man full of God's grace and power who "was performing great wonders and signs among the people." When Saul arrived, his fellow Jews were trying to debate the follower of Christ, but Stephen's passionate love for Jesus was tying a group of empty, legalistic Pharisee's in knots.
Many of us remember our own agony of emptiness. And right here on earth's miserable sod, Stephen was full-not just because he'd accepted Jesus as Savior, but because he had surrendered his whole life to Christ's will and purpose. The more Stephen poured out his life for Christ, the more Christ poured His life into Stephen. Stephen was full of faith, full of God's grace and power. Only a person full of the Holy Spirit can possess that kind of power Stephen displayed and yet remain full of God's grace. A person full of the Holy Spirit cannot be full of self. Pride never accompanies power in the fully yielded life.
When I think of the last 10 years of my life, I think of all the Christians that have helped "shape" me. When I get to heaven, I know first off, I want to see my Savior, but when I have spent a few centuries at His feet, I wonder who else I will want to see...I would like to take a basin and a towel and wash the feet of those who have meant so much to me here. I betcha that Stephen has a high place on the "wash list" of Saul of Tarsus!
Let's pray:
Heavenly Father, you are so precious to us Lord. I thank you so much for your Word Lord. Help us Father to live out our lives for you in a way that would be pleasing to You. Help us to always bear witness to Your Name during times of persecution and use them as an opportunity to praise You always. In Your Holy Name We Pray...Amen
Have a blessed day Ladybugs!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Friday, March 18, 2011
Frugal Friday!!
I found a site with lots of homemade cleaning supplies! I will definitely be trying these! Love ya Ladybugs! Happy Frugal Friday!
Cleaning Carpets
Mild carpet stains can be cleaned using club soda. For a heavier, more difficult stain, use cornstarch or Fuller's earth, sprinkled on the problem area. Allow this to sit for about half an hour, then scrub with one part vinegar to three parts water. To deodorize the carpet, sprinkle a mixture of baking soda and crushed herbs on the carpet. Let it sit a half hour, then vacuum it back up for fresh smelling carpets. Of course, serious odors may require scrubbing. You will find these homemade cleaners are much more pleasant and easier on the environment.
Cleaning Ovens
Oven cleaner is a really dangerous substance, and we should avoid using it if at all possible. Start by using preventative maintenance - scrub spills right away using salt or a paste of baking soda and an old toothbrush. It takes a little elbow grease, and sometimes you need to let the paste sit, but the dangers of oven cleaner are completely avoided. Clean your oven more often to make this less of a chore.
Unclogging Drains
First, make sure you use a drain trap to prevent clogs as much as you can. If sluggish drains still occur, pour a quarter cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Then, stopper the drain and let it sit for fifteen minutes. Flush the drain afterward with the hottest water you can. Hot water on its own will sometimes solve the problem, as well. Avoid using commercial drain cleaners, which are incredibly toxic and can even harm your plumbing.
Air Freshening
Burning incense, making your own potpourri, using an essential oil diffuser, and having plants around your home can all help. Use lavender sachets in closets and clothes chests, too. Get rid of chemical air fresheners, which can cause headaches and pollute your indoor air. Get rid of musty smells in boxes and trunks using crumpled paper to absorb the smell. When you get rid of the paper, you get rid of the smell. A pan of spices in the oven will help you get smells out of the kitchen, too, and you'll get a wonderful fragrance. Lemon oil, cinnamon and nutmeg are great choices if you try this.
All Purpose Cleaner
A little soap (not detergent), some water and a few drops of lavender and tea tree oils can help you disinfect just about any surface that's not glass (which it streaks) and makes a great cleaner. Just rinse well. Another option is to simmer rosemary, sage, eucalyptus, juniper, thyme or lavender for thirty minutes in a small amount of water. This also works on any surface other than glass, and with a little soap, will even cut grease. Try a tablespoon of ammonia, a tablespoon of laundry detergent and two cups water for a very strong cleaner.
Furniture Polish
Skip the spray on polish, which could damage furniture in the long run, and use a mixture of lemon juice and olive oil (or another vegetable oil you like) to keep your furniture shiny and beautiful. A soft cloth is all you need to apply it. Wax wooden floors with a similar solution, or substitute the lemon juice for vinegar. It's remarkably easy to keep your wood in good shape with these homemade cleaners and without using silicone oil or other commercial products.
Homemade Cleaners For Glass
Try these homemeade cleaners for glass, they are a lot more pleasant than the commercial ones. A mixture of a half cup of vinegar and a gallon of water will work, or you can clean with lemon juice or club soda. Or try one part rubbing alcohol to one part water, with a dash of vinegar. For a strong glass cleaner, to be used when others haven't worked, try substituting the vinegar with a dash of non-sudsing clear ammonia. Be careful with ammonia, however - it can be hazardous if you don't treat it properly. Remember to use soft, lint free cloths to clean glass. This will reduce the chances of serious streaking.
Polishing Metal
Use a mixture of salt and lemon juice, or just a little baking soda to polish metal. You can also rub metals with toothpaste to remove tarnish and rust. It's amazing how well it'll work! Just remember that softer metals can be damaged by abrasives, so you'll need to take care when you clean them. Make sure that antiques, especially, are cleaned with extreme care.
These aren't the only homemade cleaners out there, but they're a good start, and they're all relatively nontoxic and inexpensive. If you want to improve your health, spend less, and have less of a negative environmental impact, making your own household cleaning products is a really smart idea. You'll be amazed at how well these cheap cleaners can work, and the difference they'll make in your home. Say goodbye to rubber gloves and start using cheap, nontoxic cleaners made at home.
Cleaning Carpets
Mild carpet stains can be cleaned using club soda. For a heavier, more difficult stain, use cornstarch or Fuller's earth, sprinkled on the problem area. Allow this to sit for about half an hour, then scrub with one part vinegar to three parts water. To deodorize the carpet, sprinkle a mixture of baking soda and crushed herbs on the carpet. Let it sit a half hour, then vacuum it back up for fresh smelling carpets. Of course, serious odors may require scrubbing. You will find these homemade cleaners are much more pleasant and easier on the environment.
Cleaning Ovens
Oven cleaner is a really dangerous substance, and we should avoid using it if at all possible. Start by using preventative maintenance - scrub spills right away using salt or a paste of baking soda and an old toothbrush. It takes a little elbow grease, and sometimes you need to let the paste sit, but the dangers of oven cleaner are completely avoided. Clean your oven more often to make this less of a chore.
Unclogging Drains
First, make sure you use a drain trap to prevent clogs as much as you can. If sluggish drains still occur, pour a quarter cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Then, stopper the drain and let it sit for fifteen minutes. Flush the drain afterward with the hottest water you can. Hot water on its own will sometimes solve the problem, as well. Avoid using commercial drain cleaners, which are incredibly toxic and can even harm your plumbing.
Air Freshening
Burning incense, making your own potpourri, using an essential oil diffuser, and having plants around your home can all help. Use lavender sachets in closets and clothes chests, too. Get rid of chemical air fresheners, which can cause headaches and pollute your indoor air. Get rid of musty smells in boxes and trunks using crumpled paper to absorb the smell. When you get rid of the paper, you get rid of the smell. A pan of spices in the oven will help you get smells out of the kitchen, too, and you'll get a wonderful fragrance. Lemon oil, cinnamon and nutmeg are great choices if you try this.
All Purpose Cleaner
A little soap (not detergent), some water and a few drops of lavender and tea tree oils can help you disinfect just about any surface that's not glass (which it streaks) and makes a great cleaner. Just rinse well. Another option is to simmer rosemary, sage, eucalyptus, juniper, thyme or lavender for thirty minutes in a small amount of water. This also works on any surface other than glass, and with a little soap, will even cut grease. Try a tablespoon of ammonia, a tablespoon of laundry detergent and two cups water for a very strong cleaner.
Furniture Polish
Skip the spray on polish, which could damage furniture in the long run, and use a mixture of lemon juice and olive oil (or another vegetable oil you like) to keep your furniture shiny and beautiful. A soft cloth is all you need to apply it. Wax wooden floors with a similar solution, or substitute the lemon juice for vinegar. It's remarkably easy to keep your wood in good shape with these homemade cleaners and without using silicone oil or other commercial products.
Homemade Cleaners For Glass
Try these homemeade cleaners for glass, they are a lot more pleasant than the commercial ones. A mixture of a half cup of vinegar and a gallon of water will work, or you can clean with lemon juice or club soda. Or try one part rubbing alcohol to one part water, with a dash of vinegar. For a strong glass cleaner, to be used when others haven't worked, try substituting the vinegar with a dash of non-sudsing clear ammonia. Be careful with ammonia, however - it can be hazardous if you don't treat it properly. Remember to use soft, lint free cloths to clean glass. This will reduce the chances of serious streaking.
Polishing Metal
Use a mixture of salt and lemon juice, or just a little baking soda to polish metal. You can also rub metals with toothpaste to remove tarnish and rust. It's amazing how well it'll work! Just remember that softer metals can be damaged by abrasives, so you'll need to take care when you clean them. Make sure that antiques, especially, are cleaned with extreme care.
These aren't the only homemade cleaners out there, but they're a good start, and they're all relatively nontoxic and inexpensive. If you want to improve your health, spend less, and have less of a negative environmental impact, making your own household cleaning products is a really smart idea. You'll be amazed at how well these cheap cleaners can work, and the difference they'll make in your home. Say goodbye to rubber gloves and start using cheap, nontoxic cleaners made at home.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Thankful Tuesday!
1261. blue skies
1262. sunshine
1263. the book of John
1264. the book of Acts
1265. another sermon......
1266. Science experiments
1267. the sound of birds outside
1268. seeds sprouting
1269. Find It Here
1270. Mr. Burton (our neighbor)
Love you much!
In Christ,
Sandy
1262. sunshine
1263. the book of John
1264. the book of Acts
1265. another sermon......
1266. Science experiments
1267. the sound of birds outside
1268. seeds sprouting
1269. Find It Here
1270. Mr. Burton (our neighbor)
Love you much!
In Christ,
Sandy
Monday, March 14, 2011
Happy Mondays with Paul!
Good Morning Ladybugs! I hope you are having a Happy Monday! Let's get started...
Philippians 3:2-11
Watch out for those dogs, those me who do evil,those mutilators of the flesh. For it is we who are the circumcision,we who worship by the Spirit of God,who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh-though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If anyone else thinks he has reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: Circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews;in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church;as for legalistic righteousness,faultless.But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Crhist. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I amy gain Christ and be found in him, not having a reighteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ- the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.
Reflection:
If you could summarize your life in a few short lines and thoughts, what are some of the words that you would use?
Assuming that some of your answers reveal a few mistakes and regrets, how do you "wish" your life could be summarized? What's missing that you'd like to see added to the list?
Saul himself was a Pharisee and probably returned from Jerusalem to Tarsus to serve as a teacher of the law.(Beth Moore) "I believe that Saul probably had to said to Jerusalem as a young adolescent with a pure heart; but somewhere along the way negative influences outweighed the positive, and his purity began to erode." The law became his god. That's what happens when you take the love out of obedience. The result is law. Without loves for God and His Word, we're just trying to be good. Nothing will wear us out faster...
Have you been there ladies? Trying to obey God and serve Him before we've come to love Him can be exhausting!!
To seperate ourselves from others we often put up what is called "Identity Bounderies", these are walls we put up to seperate "Our Group" from other groups. Gangs wear certain colors to show who is in and who is out. Churches and denominations develop distinctive teachings to accomplish the same goal. The first-century Jews became so obsessed with identity bounderies that they forgot about loving God.
Paul was absolutely miserable..wanna know how I know this? In Philippians 3:6, he said his zeal was so great that he persecuted the church,and that his legalistic righteousness was "blameless".
We cannot even begin to imagine what Saul's life was like as he sought to live by the letter of the law because we do not have a jewish background. His daily rituals determined the first words out of his mouth in the morning, the way he took off his nightclothes and put on his dayclothes and how he sprinkled his hands before breakfast. He carefully avoided eating or drinking quickly and never ate while standing.He pronounced several benedictions throughout his day, they were filled with rituals and at night he took off his shoes and garments in the prescribed order. He avoided certain sleep positions and chose others. For the sake of his heart and liver, he probably attempted to begin the night on his left side and end the night on his right. These daily rituals paled in comparison to all the laws regarding the Sabbath. Restrictions existed for almost everything. For example, prior to the Sabbath a Pharisee cut his fingernails and toenails not in consecutive order but alternately. He then burned the nails. He avoided spitting in a place where the wind could scatter the saliva so he would not break laws concerning sowing on the Sabbath.
Saul was strangled by the letter of the law. He tried desperately to keep all the outward acts of obedience while his heart slowly eroded. Saul gradually became the model for Isaiah 29:13: "These people approach Me with their mouths to honor Me with lip-service, yet their hearts are far from Me, and their worship consists of man-mades rules learned by rote.
Let's pray:
Our Heavenly Father, forgive us Lord when we begin to act like modern day Pharisees. Lay conviction on us everytime we stray from the law of love You have written on our hearts. Give us hearts of devotion for You Father and not heads full of "RELIGION." Help us Lord to witness to others Your love and grace, and not display a religion of rules and regulations. We love You Lord. In Your Precious Name we pray. Amen
Praying for you all today and always!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Philippians 3:2-11
Watch out for those dogs, those me who do evil,those mutilators of the flesh. For it is we who are the circumcision,we who worship by the Spirit of God,who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh-though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If anyone else thinks he has reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: Circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews;in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church;as for legalistic righteousness,faultless.But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Crhist. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I amy gain Christ and be found in him, not having a reighteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ- the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.
Reflection:
If you could summarize your life in a few short lines and thoughts, what are some of the words that you would use?
Assuming that some of your answers reveal a few mistakes and regrets, how do you "wish" your life could be summarized? What's missing that you'd like to see added to the list?
Saul himself was a Pharisee and probably returned from Jerusalem to Tarsus to serve as a teacher of the law.(Beth Moore) "I believe that Saul probably had to said to Jerusalem as a young adolescent with a pure heart; but somewhere along the way negative influences outweighed the positive, and his purity began to erode." The law became his god. That's what happens when you take the love out of obedience. The result is law. Without loves for God and His Word, we're just trying to be good. Nothing will wear us out faster...
Have you been there ladies? Trying to obey God and serve Him before we've come to love Him can be exhausting!!
To seperate ourselves from others we often put up what is called "Identity Bounderies", these are walls we put up to seperate "Our Group" from other groups. Gangs wear certain colors to show who is in and who is out. Churches and denominations develop distinctive teachings to accomplish the same goal. The first-century Jews became so obsessed with identity bounderies that they forgot about loving God.
Paul was absolutely miserable..wanna know how I know this? In Philippians 3:6, he said his zeal was so great that he persecuted the church,and that his legalistic righteousness was "blameless".
We cannot even begin to imagine what Saul's life was like as he sought to live by the letter of the law because we do not have a jewish background. His daily rituals determined the first words out of his mouth in the morning, the way he took off his nightclothes and put on his dayclothes and how he sprinkled his hands before breakfast. He carefully avoided eating or drinking quickly and never ate while standing.He pronounced several benedictions throughout his day, they were filled with rituals and at night he took off his shoes and garments in the prescribed order. He avoided certain sleep positions and chose others. For the sake of his heart and liver, he probably attempted to begin the night on his left side and end the night on his right. These daily rituals paled in comparison to all the laws regarding the Sabbath. Restrictions existed for almost everything. For example, prior to the Sabbath a Pharisee cut his fingernails and toenails not in consecutive order but alternately. He then burned the nails. He avoided spitting in a place where the wind could scatter the saliva so he would not break laws concerning sowing on the Sabbath.
Saul was strangled by the letter of the law. He tried desperately to keep all the outward acts of obedience while his heart slowly eroded. Saul gradually became the model for Isaiah 29:13: "These people approach Me with their mouths to honor Me with lip-service, yet their hearts are far from Me, and their worship consists of man-mades rules learned by rote.
Let's pray:
Our Heavenly Father, forgive us Lord when we begin to act like modern day Pharisees. Lay conviction on us everytime we stray from the law of love You have written on our hearts. Give us hearts of devotion for You Father and not heads full of "RELIGION." Help us Lord to witness to others Your love and grace, and not display a religion of rules and regulations. We love You Lord. In Your Precious Name we pray. Amen
Praying for you all today and always!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Friday, March 11, 2011
Frugal Friday!!
Ladies, I’ve made (2) sets of scrubs and gave them away as Christmas gifts and Birthday gifts:I put little tags and also wrote on the jars to be careful of slipping when in the tub due to the oil.
PEPPERMINT SCRUB (great when you want something to really invigorate you in the shower; use this BEFORE not AFTER shaving.)
- Kosher Salt
- Peppermint Oil
- Almond Oil
CITRUS BROWN SUGAR SCRUB
- Brown Sugar
- Citrus Essential Oil (orange/grapefruit/lemon – use either one)
-Almond Oil
So incredibly easy.
Happy Savings and God Bless…
PEPPERMINT SCRUB (great when you want something to really invigorate you in the shower; use this BEFORE not AFTER shaving.)
- Kosher Salt
- Peppermint Oil
- Almond Oil
CITRUS BROWN SUGAR SCRUB
- Brown Sugar
- Citrus Essential Oil (orange/grapefruit/lemon – use either one)
-Almond Oil
So incredibly easy.
Happy Savings and God Bless…
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Thankful Tuesday and did you know?
Mine Shana posted the 100th post yesterday! I always have so much much to be thankful for but today especially. I guess that you all know that Chad preached his 1st sermon Sunday at Faith! It was an amazing and humbling experience. I just can't explain how I felt that day and have felt since. Blessed beyond measure for sure. By the grace of God!
Well, on with our list.....
1224. Sunday
1225. Chad
1226. his sermon
1227. Faith Baptist Church
1228. Pastor Mick
1229.(((( Roy and Shana))))
1230. Chad's mom
1231. being ready.....
1232. pictures
1233. lavender
1234. Sydney & JC
1235. Sydney's gifts from J
1236. seashells
1237. driftwood
1238. rain
1239. washcloths
1240. wicker
Love you much!
In Christ,
Sandy
Well, on with our list.....
1224. Sunday
1225. Chad
1226. his sermon
1227. Faith Baptist Church
1228. Pastor Mick
1229.(((( Roy and Shana))))
1230. Chad's mom
1231. being ready.....
1232. pictures
1233. lavender
1234. Sydney & JC
1235. Sydney's gifts from J
1236. seashells
1237. driftwood
1238. rain
1239. washcloths
1240. wicker
Love you much!
In Christ,
Sandy
Monday, March 7, 2011
Happy Mondays with Paul!
Happy Monday Ladies!! I just love how that the Easter Lillies are popping up all over the place right now. I love SPRING!! Roy and I are looking forward to our "Spring Break." We have finals this week, so pray for us, we will be relieved to get past this semester, it has been a tough one. Although it has been tough, we have learned SO much! Anyway, on with our devotional for today, this is a long one, so I will have you to get your Bibles and do your reading this morning.
Get your Bibles and read...Matthew 23:1-36
Vs. 25
"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence!"
Reflections:
How do you think Paul responded to the hypocrisy of the Jews in Jerusalem? How have you reacted in similar situations?
In what ways have you been disillusioned by Christians? How would you counsel someone who came to you confessing these types of feelings and disappointments?
Paul's father entrusted him to the finest rabbinic school, but he was not there alone. He was surrounded by the good and bad influences. He saw people who were the real thing and he saw people who were religious frauds. We don't need to look any further than the Word of God to see many of the influences that Saul encountered among the Pharisees of Jerusalem. Soon after Saul finished his education in Jerusalem and presumably headed back to Tarsus, John the Baptist began to preach "Prepare the way for the Lord."(Matt. 3:3) In no time at all, Jesus was on the scene, teaching in the same synagogue where Saul recently stood. Saul found influences like the wise teacher Gamaliel, but he also experienced influences like the ones Jesus so aptly described in the Gospels. In fact, many of the Pharisees and members of the Sanhedrin whom Christ encountered were Saul's instructors or classmates. The term Pharisee was meant to represent genuine piety and deep devotion to God. Although exceptions certainly existed among the Pharisees, in the days of Jesus and Saul the term had become synonymous with hypocrisy and cynicism. Matthew 23 is an entire discourse addressed to the teachers of the law and Pharisees. As we read this chapter carefully you will notice all the specific ways that Jesus described the same people that Saul encountered in Jerusalem. Let's take a thorough look at the characteristics we see in the people Jesus described. Do you see any that describe you? Godly people were valiant people. They are people with the courage to ask God to spotlight areas of weakness, sin and failure. Then God can strengthen, heal and complete what is lacking.
I love that about Jesus. I love how that he can correct us and still love us no matter how "ugly" we have been. Once that forgiveness is asked for, it is given freely and the sin is forgotten about. I sometimes say, "But Lord, I did this, I don't understand how you love me still" and He says, " But Shana, I did this, so I can love you still." I love my Jesus, He is sunshine to my darkness. His love endures forever.
Let's pray:
We love you Jesus. You are most wonderful and precious to us. No Father, we don't deserve your love and mercy that you give us fresh and new everyday Lord, but we will take it all the same! Speak to us Lord about the things in our lives that we need to correct Father. Help us Lord, "Carve" away from us whatever doesn't look like You. Take out all the worldly things in our lives that isn't of You Lord so that we become a "mirror image of You." We love you so very much Lord. Lead us and guide us Lord, until you come back to bring us home. Oh glorious day!
Amen.
I love you my lady friends!
Stay in God's Word this week!
Pray for each other!
Sweet Girls!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Get your Bibles and read...Matthew 23:1-36
Vs. 25
"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence!"
Reflections:
How do you think Paul responded to the hypocrisy of the Jews in Jerusalem? How have you reacted in similar situations?
In what ways have you been disillusioned by Christians? How would you counsel someone who came to you confessing these types of feelings and disappointments?
Paul's father entrusted him to the finest rabbinic school, but he was not there alone. He was surrounded by the good and bad influences. He saw people who were the real thing and he saw people who were religious frauds. We don't need to look any further than the Word of God to see many of the influences that Saul encountered among the Pharisees of Jerusalem. Soon after Saul finished his education in Jerusalem and presumably headed back to Tarsus, John the Baptist began to preach "Prepare the way for the Lord."(Matt. 3:3) In no time at all, Jesus was on the scene, teaching in the same synagogue where Saul recently stood. Saul found influences like the wise teacher Gamaliel, but he also experienced influences like the ones Jesus so aptly described in the Gospels. In fact, many of the Pharisees and members of the Sanhedrin whom Christ encountered were Saul's instructors or classmates. The term Pharisee was meant to represent genuine piety and deep devotion to God. Although exceptions certainly existed among the Pharisees, in the days of Jesus and Saul the term had become synonymous with hypocrisy and cynicism. Matthew 23 is an entire discourse addressed to the teachers of the law and Pharisees. As we read this chapter carefully you will notice all the specific ways that Jesus described the same people that Saul encountered in Jerusalem. Let's take a thorough look at the characteristics we see in the people Jesus described. Do you see any that describe you? Godly people were valiant people. They are people with the courage to ask God to spotlight areas of weakness, sin and failure. Then God can strengthen, heal and complete what is lacking.
I love that about Jesus. I love how that he can correct us and still love us no matter how "ugly" we have been. Once that forgiveness is asked for, it is given freely and the sin is forgotten about. I sometimes say, "But Lord, I did this, I don't understand how you love me still" and He says, " But Shana, I did this, so I can love you still." I love my Jesus, He is sunshine to my darkness. His love endures forever.
Let's pray:
We love you Jesus. You are most wonderful and precious to us. No Father, we don't deserve your love and mercy that you give us fresh and new everyday Lord, but we will take it all the same! Speak to us Lord about the things in our lives that we need to correct Father. Help us Lord, "Carve" away from us whatever doesn't look like You. Take out all the worldly things in our lives that isn't of You Lord so that we become a "mirror image of You." We love you so very much Lord. Lead us and guide us Lord, until you come back to bring us home. Oh glorious day!
Amen.
I love you my lady friends!
Stay in God's Word this week!
Pray for each other!
Sweet Girls!
In Him I Remain,
Shana
Friday, March 4, 2011
thankfullness
1217. warm weather
1218 my new lab puppy
1219. haircuts
1220. new beginnings
1221. my dorm
1222. my love for Christ
1223. students wanting to know about God
tara
1218 my new lab puppy
1219. haircuts
1220. new beginnings
1221. my dorm
1222. my love for Christ
1223. students wanting to know about God
tara
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Thankful Thursday!
1193. a new "look"
1194. JC's posts
1195. bread in the oven
1196. confirmation
1197. tears
1198. a new chapter...
1199. the hope of Spring
1200. pulled pork
1201. sand play dough
1202. bread bags
1203. M'Cheyne
1204. ladybugs
1205. speckled eggs
Love you much!
In Christ,
Sandy
1194. JC's posts
1195. bread in the oven
1196. confirmation
1197. tears
1198. a new chapter...
1199. the hope of Spring
1200. pulled pork
1201. sand play dough
1202. bread bags
1203. M'Cheyne
1204. ladybugs
1205. speckled eggs
Love you much!
In Christ,
Sandy
Monday, February 28, 2011
Happy Mondays with Paul!
Was that an awesome service yesterday or what Gals?!?! I don't know that I have cried like that in years...before I get started this morning, I just want us to praise God for what He is doing in our lives...we just need to stop what we are doing today and let Him know how thankful we are for His love and His guidance in our lives...God is so good! Again, words don't have the capacity for us to tell Him just how much we love Him do they? Happy Monday Ladies...it's a new week and a new beginning! Let's get started!
Acts 5:27-42
(Paraphrased)
The Apostles were brought to the Sanhedrin to be questioned by the High Priest. He said,"We gave you strict orders not to teach in His Name! Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man's blood." Peter and the other Apostle's replied," We must obey God rather than men!" The God of our fathers raised Jesus from the dead-whom you had killed by hanging Him on a tree!" God exalted Him to His own right hand as Prince and Savior that He might give repentance and forgiveness of sins to Israel. We are witnesses of these things and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey Him.
When they heard this they were furious and wanted them put to death. But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, who was honored by all the people, stood up in the Sanhedrin and ordered that the men be put outside for a little while. Then he answered them:"Men of Israel consider carefully, what you intend to do to these men. Sometime ago Theudas appreared, claiming to be somebody, and about 400 men rallied to him. He was killed and all his followers were dispersed and it all came to nothing. After him, Judas the Galilean appeared in the days of the census and led a band of people to revolt. He too was killed, and all his followers were scattered. Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God."
His speech persuaded them. They called the Apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the Name of Jesus and let them go.
The Apostles left the Sanhedrin rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ!!!!!
AMEN to that!!!
Reflection:
Who are some of the people that have had the greatest influence on your life, and what do you most respect about them?
Name one or two of the best pieces fo Godly advice you've ever received. What has God enabled you to do (or protected you from doing) as a result of knowing and applying this?
One of the most awesome and wonderful concepts about the Word of God concerns the plan that He has for our lives. In Galatians 1:15, Paul descibed God as the One "who from my mother's womb set me apart and called me by His grace." YES! God had a plan for Saul from birth. Nothing in the young man's life would be a waste unless he refused to let God use it.
It's no wonder that Saul took a seat in the classroom of the rabbi Gamaliel, grandson of the great Hillel-names of considerable importance in the history of Judaism. Gamaliel continues to be so highly esteemed. He was referred to by the Jews as, "the beauty of the law."
All of Saul's religious training, his countless hours spent in Scripture and study, and his brilliance in spiritual matters would all be parts of God's ornate plan. God would use what Saul learned at the feet of Gamaliel, who was "clearly a remarkable man, the first to whom the title Rabban (Master) was given."
He was almost liberal in comparison to many of his contemporaries. Bighearted, wise, and open-minded, Gamaliel had been raised on the teachings of his grandfather Hillel, whose words often had a remarkable similarity to the Greatest Rabboni who would ever live, Jesus Christ. "Judge not thy neighbor until thou art in his place;...my abasement is my exaltation; he who wishes to make a name for himself loses his name;...what is unpleasnat to thyself that do not to thy neighbor; this is the whole Law, all else is but its exposition. Do those words sound familiar girls? God in His wonderful wisdom made sure that the law was taught to Saul with a touch of rare grace.
God included a sample of Gamamliel's teachings in the passage we read from Acts 5. During the early days of the young church, the Jewish officials wanted to put the Apostles to death but Gamaliel advised them: "Stay away from these men! Leave them alone! For if this plan is the work of men, it will be overthrown, but if it is the work of God then you will not be able to overthrow them. You may even be found fighting against God! (vs. 38-39)
Obviously, Saul sat at the feet of one of Judaism's most grace-filled teachers.
Let's pray:
We love You Lord and we are so thankful to be a part of Your work Father. How honored we are for Your love and Your mercy. Knowing that You have Your mighty hand on our lives is more than our small minds can wrap around. Just being able to serve You is more than we deserve but to be able to do Your work and lead others to You is above and beyond what we can comprehend. We praise You! We love You! Lead us Lord, guide us Father, show us what You would have us to do to glorify Your Name... All of these things we ask in Your precious and Holy Name!
Amen!
I love you Girlies and I am praying for you all today!!
In Him We Remain,
Shana
Acts 5:27-42
(Paraphrased)
The Apostles were brought to the Sanhedrin to be questioned by the High Priest. He said,"We gave you strict orders not to teach in His Name! Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man's blood." Peter and the other Apostle's replied," We must obey God rather than men!" The God of our fathers raised Jesus from the dead-whom you had killed by hanging Him on a tree!" God exalted Him to His own right hand as Prince and Savior that He might give repentance and forgiveness of sins to Israel. We are witnesses of these things and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey Him.
When they heard this they were furious and wanted them put to death. But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, who was honored by all the people, stood up in the Sanhedrin and ordered that the men be put outside for a little while. Then he answered them:"Men of Israel consider carefully, what you intend to do to these men. Sometime ago Theudas appreared, claiming to be somebody, and about 400 men rallied to him. He was killed and all his followers were dispersed and it all came to nothing. After him, Judas the Galilean appeared in the days of the census and led a band of people to revolt. He too was killed, and all his followers were scattered. Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God."
His speech persuaded them. They called the Apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the Name of Jesus and let them go.
The Apostles left the Sanhedrin rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ!!!!!
AMEN to that!!!
Reflection:
Who are some of the people that have had the greatest influence on your life, and what do you most respect about them?
Name one or two of the best pieces fo Godly advice you've ever received. What has God enabled you to do (or protected you from doing) as a result of knowing and applying this?
One of the most awesome and wonderful concepts about the Word of God concerns the plan that He has for our lives. In Galatians 1:15, Paul descibed God as the One "who from my mother's womb set me apart and called me by His grace." YES! God had a plan for Saul from birth. Nothing in the young man's life would be a waste unless he refused to let God use it.
It's no wonder that Saul took a seat in the classroom of the rabbi Gamaliel, grandson of the great Hillel-names of considerable importance in the history of Judaism. Gamaliel continues to be so highly esteemed. He was referred to by the Jews as, "the beauty of the law."
All of Saul's religious training, his countless hours spent in Scripture and study, and his brilliance in spiritual matters would all be parts of God's ornate plan. God would use what Saul learned at the feet of Gamaliel, who was "clearly a remarkable man, the first to whom the title Rabban (Master) was given."
He was almost liberal in comparison to many of his contemporaries. Bighearted, wise, and open-minded, Gamaliel had been raised on the teachings of his grandfather Hillel, whose words often had a remarkable similarity to the Greatest Rabboni who would ever live, Jesus Christ. "Judge not thy neighbor until thou art in his place;...my abasement is my exaltation; he who wishes to make a name for himself loses his name;...what is unpleasnat to thyself that do not to thy neighbor; this is the whole Law, all else is but its exposition. Do those words sound familiar girls? God in His wonderful wisdom made sure that the law was taught to Saul with a touch of rare grace.
God included a sample of Gamamliel's teachings in the passage we read from Acts 5. During the early days of the young church, the Jewish officials wanted to put the Apostles to death but Gamaliel advised them: "Stay away from these men! Leave them alone! For if this plan is the work of men, it will be overthrown, but if it is the work of God then you will not be able to overthrow them. You may even be found fighting against God! (vs. 38-39)
Obviously, Saul sat at the feet of one of Judaism's most grace-filled teachers.
Let's pray:
We love You Lord and we are so thankful to be a part of Your work Father. How honored we are for Your love and Your mercy. Knowing that You have Your mighty hand on our lives is more than our small minds can wrap around. Just being able to serve You is more than we deserve but to be able to do Your work and lead others to You is above and beyond what we can comprehend. We praise You! We love You! Lead us Lord, guide us Father, show us what You would have us to do to glorify Your Name... All of these things we ask in Your precious and Holy Name!
Amen!
I love you Girlies and I am praying for you all today!!
In Him We Remain,
Shana
Friday, February 25, 2011
Frugal Friday!!
CHOCOLATE CHIP ZUCCHINI BREAD:
1-1/4 CUP SUGAR
3 EGGS
2/3 CUP APPLESAUCE
1/3 CUP OIL
1 TSP VANILLA
2 CUPS WHOLE WHEAT FLOUR
1 CUP WHITE FLOUR
1 TSP SALT
1 TSP BAKING SODA
1TSP BAKING POWDER
1TSP CINNAMON
2 CUPS SHREDDED ZUCCHINI
1 CUP MINI CHOCOLATE CHIPS
1 CUP CHOPPED NUTS (OPTIONAL)
BEAT SUGAR, EGGS, APPLESAUCE, OIL AND VANILLA TOGETHER. BLEND IN DRY INGREDIENTS TOGETHER. STIR IN ZUCCHINI, NUTS AND CHOCOLATE CHIPS. POUR INTO TWO GREASED LOAF PANS. BAKE FOR 50-60 MINUTES AT 350 DEGREES.
ENJOY!
1-1/4 CUP SUGAR
3 EGGS
2/3 CUP APPLESAUCE
1/3 CUP OIL
1 TSP VANILLA
2 CUPS WHOLE WHEAT FLOUR
1 CUP WHITE FLOUR
1 TSP SALT
1 TSP BAKING SODA
1TSP BAKING POWDER
1TSP CINNAMON
2 CUPS SHREDDED ZUCCHINI
1 CUP MINI CHOCOLATE CHIPS
1 CUP CHOPPED NUTS (OPTIONAL)
BEAT SUGAR, EGGS, APPLESAUCE, OIL AND VANILLA TOGETHER. BLEND IN DRY INGREDIENTS TOGETHER. STIR IN ZUCCHINI, NUTS AND CHOCOLATE CHIPS. POUR INTO TWO GREASED LOAF PANS. BAKE FOR 50-60 MINUTES AT 350 DEGREES.
ENJOY!
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