Monday, December 28, 2009

About my Father's Business

I must admit it has been a while since I have posted.
This past Christmas has had to have been my busiest one yet.

I would like to share with you my Christmas projects this year:
- Legend of the Candy Cane Christmas Ornaments for KY
-Signed 230 Christmas Cards for the packages that WNC Blue Star Mothers were putting together
- Signed Christmas cards for 2 of the Mercy Homes [between the soldiers & Mercy Homes 400 cards were signed]
-Bookmarks to go into the cards
- Helped w/shoe boxes for KY so they could have a Christmas
-donated soup beans to the relief center for the County
-scheduled to go on a Missionary trip with some of my sister Churches but due to the snow only 2 could go
and the shoe boxes arrived their safely while I had 13 1/2 inches on the ground.
-adopted a child for Christmas
-wrote a few letters to soldiers

A good portion of it was done in November. So what was the secret to finishing all of the fun projects.
One night after I got home I felt the Holy-Spirit just whisper 'Nehemiah"
In the book of Nehemiah it seemed almost impossible to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. When they focused on what was in front of them and nothing else before they knew it the walls of Jerusalem was rebuilt.

For 2010 I know I want more opportunities to serve God , more outpours of the Holy Spirit

Sunday, November 1, 2009

Tribute to a Friend

Yesterday I had the privilege to attend a memorial/celebration service of a dear friend. Years ago I had the privelage or shall I say honor to meet a couple. Both of them have been such a blessing to me. Years ago I worked at Dairy Queen doing Drive-thru and helping out in other areas. One day when I was working Jack and Charlotte came through Drive-thru and I witnessed to them. Which is pretty much where our relationship began as luck would have it they both beleived in God they just enjoyed listening to me witness and speak words of encouragement.

Jack went into the Air-Force at the age of 18. Where as luck would have it God would use Him to train many pilots during the Cold War and the Vietnam War.

Here are some quotes which meant a lot to Jack:
"If a man happens to find himself, he has a mansion which he can inhabit with dignity all the days of his life." ------ James A. Michener

"There never was a time when I did not exist, no you..... nor is there any future in which we shall cease to be." --- Sri Krishna, The Bhagavad Gita

This was the first celebration service that I had been honoring someone who served and saved so many lives when he was in the Air-Force.

I can't begin to describe how it felt in my heart to see the folding of the flag. But I can tell you what each fold means.

The 1st Fold our Flag is a symbol of life.
The 2nd Fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life.
The 3rd Fold is made in honor and remebrance of the Veterns departing our ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of our Country to attain peace throughout the world.

The 4th Fold represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in war for His divine guidance.

The 5th Fold is a tribute to our Country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, "Our Country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right; but it is still our COUNTRY right or wrong."

The 6th Fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and the republic for which it stands, One Nation Under God, Indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for ALL.

The 7th Fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that we protect our Country and our Flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of our republic.

The 8th Fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day.

The 9th Fold is a tribute to womanhood, and Mothers, for it has been through their faith, their love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great has been molded.

The 10th Fold is a tribute to the father, for he too has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since they were first born.

The 11th Fold represents the lower portion of the seal of King Solomon and glorifies in the Hebrew's eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

The 12th Fold represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in the Christian's eyes, God and Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

The 13th Fold or when the the Flag is completely folded, the Stars are uppermost reminding us of our nation's motto "IN GOD WE TRUST."

After the Flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the Sailors and Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones, who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving gor us the right, privileges and freedoms we enjoy today.


JACK ALKEMA
JUNE 6, 1933 -- OCTOBER 18, 2009


Saturday, October 31, 2009

What if.................

I'm always amazed at God's presence every time I pray. The love that God has just for me and for me alone. That God made me His daughter, an heir, a child of the utmost High. How God calls me a part of His Glorious inheritance. [Read Ephesians 1:18 and insert your name and say it out loud]

With everything that God has given me its as if its not enough. No God still wants to continue to bless me and love on me and hold me in His arms. Which is something that I'm all for.

"But God told Balaam, "Do not go with them. You are not to curse these people, for they have been blessed!" -- Numbers 22:12

Recently I celebrated my salvation Birthday. I'm officially 19 years old as God's daughter. To me my salvation Birthday is what it is all about. Oh don't get me wrong I celebrate my natural Birthday but its just not a big deal to me. What is a big deal to me is celebrating my Salvation Birthday. It hasn't always been easy but I know the Creator of the Universe sees the finished product. "Yeah though I walk through the valley of death I fear no evil for Thou are with me."
What stands at about this verse to me is:
-God tells me that I'm to walk through this which tells me its temporary
-God has promised to be with me and God lives up to His word.

I love how God works. Its almost as if Gods eyes are roaming to and fro watching over His word so that He can perform it once again." I know personally that God still blesses 2 fishes and 5 loaves of Bread. After all God has done that in my life.

What if we reached out like Jesus reached out to the believer?

What if we were a blessing to just 1 other person?

What if we looked for an opportunity to bless someone?

What if we looked to God instead of going along with the crowd?

The crowd is not going to get you to Heaven

There is only one way .......

What if we were willing to reach out to the hurting instead of acting like it never happened??

Seems to me Jesus was always looking for the hurting, broken-hearted, those that needed healing. After all I remember Jesus eating with the sinners not the crowd.

There is a difference Gods word is very clear.

There is but One God

Though I have not seen Him, He knows my voice and I know His voice and He loves me like no other.

What if we were the hands of God instead of letting the world pass us by.............

My life is but a vapor.............
What if we laid our life down instead of standing and watching??
What if we spoke a kind word?
What if we stood in the gap for another person
What if we actually took Gods word as it is no questions asked
What if we just loved on God as God so loves on us
What if we just loved on Jesus .
After all Jesus saved the world with His hands tied behind his back and later nailed to the cross for you.... for me... for a person I have yet to meet.........
What if we was just thankful for the Holy Spirit?
What if we was so thankful for Gods word?
What if we just looked to God?
What if we just praised God?
What if we just loved on another person and spoke words of encouragement to them
What if we were the feet of God...........
What if .................

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Gods Blessing Part 2

I still can't get over everything that God has done just because I was faithful with one dollar. Yet I know God is still continually to work and just pour out blessings right and left. So many times I have found myself thinking wait God. Let me catch up. As soon as I have that thought I realize that is something I will never be able to do. Its better for me to rest. Be still and Know that I AM GOD.

Allow me to set the stage:[my favorite saying]
I was on my way home from work one Tuesday evening when my car stopped ok it died on Hendersonville Rd which in Asheville, NC at 5:15 pm. Now I must admit it was a little busy. Luckily I called Geico [which really has allowed me to save money]. The car was towed to where God has blessed me with some honest mechanics. I highly recommend APLUS [they are even open on Saturday] Pretty cool. So the next day they worked on it and due to the distance that I travel to and from work I was advised to start looking for a new car. Which is what I did after it stopped raining.

There really is a lot to be said God knows what you need before you even ask. One example is I got blessed with a $10.00 gift card to Ingles my first thought was gas. That just happened today. I'm all for blessings yet I know its from God. He owns it all. Its all Gods. One of my favorite quotes is

"I hate to tell you its not about you, its all about God."--- Rick Warren [Purpose Driven Life ]
Not everyone knows this. A wise person once told me that once I'm saved every second either God would use me or Satan would use me. But both of them could not use me. The good part about it is that Satan can't read my thoughts {God can} but Satan is forced to listen to what I speak. Yet so many times I have found myself thinking that God has not given up on mankind though I will be the first to say I don't always understand. After all God predestined everyone to Heaven for it is God's will that NONE should perish. That all of mankind would be in Heaven yet this is something that Satan doesn't have. A wise person told me to always tell Satan His future. He does not have one.

Oh well I guess I got off the subject a little. Now back to God's Blessing, and I must admit I love how God works. So thankful that there is Only 1 God Only 1 Heaven only 1 Cross that has the Blood of Jesus. Okay Okay I'm going to finish with the story.

Lets see now where did I leave off. Oh yeah the mechanic recommended for me to get a new car. There is just something about God's supernatural divine favor.
I ended up with a 1998 White Honda Civic and it is nice with about 130,000 miles.
In today's economy the Car salesman couldn't believe that I was going to buy a car just like that. Kelly Blue Book value on the car I now have is $5,400 . Well lets just say that is not what I paid.

As with anything there were some things on the car that needed to be fixed.
4 new tires
Front and rear brakes
Oil pan/oil change
Total with parts and labor came to $504.73
The person that I bought the car paid for everything except $4.73
The car salesman told me I would have to come up with that. So in short He spent $500.00 on the car that I was buying.

With a blessing like this I have to give my car away.
Which is what I did.
The person I gave it to I knew her daughter for a long time.
She is married to a Pastor. Even though the daughter was married to the Pastor doesn't mean that everyone went to Church. This was about to change.
Before I gave the car to my friends Mom there were some things that had to take place first.
I had to pray over the Car and dedicate it to God.
The car could not leave the property without a Bible.
Come to find out the person I gave it to had not gone to Church in over 10 years.
She is now in Church.
Never misses a service
Everywhere she goes she tells people God cares about me so much that He supplies every need I have even to a Car.
She is bringing others with her to Church.
Yet it begun with a dollar and because I was faithful God brought His word to life.
The sad thing about this is when I put on facebook that I had just gave my car away.
Only 2 people asked me
Its sad because a lot of people missed out on what God is doing.
Yet God says I love you.
So many people are now going to Church that have been prayed for over 10 years and witnessed to by so many.
My sister tells me the new owner is right.
God did give her that car and God used me to be the vessel.
God knows the end before He ever created.

Saturday, September 19, 2009

God's Blessing

I just finished listing to Joel Osteen via Internet
The Message of Hope tonight was God's Blessing

"But GOD said to Balaam, "Do not go with them.
You must not go with them.
You must not put a curse on those because they are blessed."'
Numbers 22:12

When you realize that you have already been Blessed by the Creator of the Universe
God will take what ever happens to you good or bad and use it for His Kingdom

My favorite part was nothing can overtake the Blessing that God has given you from the beginning.

Not too long ago I was headed to Kentucky the first of many to come...........
The area that I went to was a Coal Mining. I must admit the Country was very beautiful
I remember when I started asking for donations
The very first donation came was $1.00 bill a couple of days later another person at work gave a dollar. Then where I go to Church a lady personally packed my car and then opened the driver's door and said there is room for you.
Looking back it was all GOD
Yes there was room for me in the car but I had no VISIBILITY
I had to call my sister to come get some of the clothing out of my car so I could see to drive. Then again the support was given on an individual basis.

At first it didn't look like I had much support
I soon found myself saying out loud I must stick with God
I must follow God

I love how GOD works according to HIS word
Because I was faithful with a dollar and how God used that dollar and used my faithfulness and 2 days later blessed it with over $375 dollars of School Supplies

I remember it as if it was yesterday
at first there wasn't much of a response
I said OUT LOUD I must stick with GOD
I held my head high because I'm a child of the Utmost High
Okay I was buying school supplies and my sister was yelling you can't buy school supplies for everyone. Then I would tell my sister just how thankful they are for a ruler
Look its a ruler can I keep it? Can I have that ruler the child looks up at the MOM?
Still I bought school supplies oh it wasn't that I didn't ask
yet I stayed focused on God
The first 2 donations came from people who don't attend Church on a regular basis yet they Believe in God both was a dollar bill
When I purchases school supplies it was 3 separate purchases
the first 2 purchases came to $ .98 with tax
It bought a Notebook, Ruler, pencils, crayons, folder
Not too bad and then came the 3rd purchase
Buying school supplies out of my money
Vicki hollering "You can't buy it all....
I'm hollering back "They are thankful for a ruler.........
Because I was faithful with what God had entrusted me with God used a local business to bless Kentucky and there were enough school supplies for 100 children
I love How God
took my faith
saw how I was faithful with what God had entrusted me with ($1.00 donation x 2)
Multiplied it by using a Complete stranger who is a Servant
Which Equals enough school supplies for 100 kids with school supplies left over
It made me think of how Jesus
took a boys lunch 2 fish and 5 loaves of Bread and blessed it to feed the multitudes
If its in the Bible God can still do it.................
Never underestimate God.............
Its not going to be long before my next trip to Kentucky............
God watches over His own

Friday, August 28, 2009

Can do Attitude

It is so easy to allow others to influence us
The test comes when we influence others

I work with a lady who is just so thankful for everything that God has done
She is always giving praise to God even if someone compliments her
It takes her a little longer to get to her workstation more so than others
But she does not allow that to get her down
She has a smile on her face
Always encouraging
She uses a cane to help her walk but she really doesn't pay that much attention to it
You see when she is walking even though her steps are slow she is encouraging everyone that she passes
After all it is her that passes people not people pass her
This morning I was able to tell her she had the Can--do attitude
Without hesitating
She said its all God
One thing is for sure she has the right mindset
Instead of being discouraged she encourages
Instead of being knocked down she helps people who are knocked down
Well the list goes on..............................

She is thankful for the Spiritual Gifts that Her Heavenly Father has imparted to her
You can tell that there are stirred up and have risen to the top just like Cream rises to the top when a person makes butter.

The World needs more with a can do attitude

Thankful

I must admit its so easy to take things for granted
After all I even did that
I was blessed with Godly people that encouraged me every step of the way to chase God after all they didn't believe in putting limitations on God

Funny how it takes a person who wants you to limit God to realize just how blessed you really are.
One thing is for sure I'm more thankful now more than ever that
God is ordering the steps
God is right on time
God always has the right people placed
God has it all under control
So thankful for God now more than ever
So thankful for Jesus now more than ever
So thankful for the Holy-- Spirit than ever
So thankful for Gods Written word
The list goes on and on...........................

Saturday, August 22, 2009

Mindset

Getting ready for a 5k race in my case I'm walking
has indeed been such a blessing to put it mildly.
I've turned every break and every lunch into a walk but not just any walk
they became prayer walks

I must admit without even realizing I had indeed become spoiled.
I look forward to my breaks and lunches to put it mildly
As I walk I just pray out loud and if I want to sing a praise song I would just sing that out loud

With businesses moving to another location especially in today's economy
I just got used to praying and singing out loud
Always thanking God for the opportunity
I'm indeed blessed to be able to pray out loud on my breaks and lunches

A blessing that so many Missionaries long for just to be able to mention God's name in public, for many they just long to hear another one mention the name of Jesus

Just to hear the name of Jesus from another person's voice
Just to hear someone learn a Bible verse
Well that is the cry of their Heart
If that is the cry of their Heart how much more does God want to hear your voice???

With changes all around us something happened at work one day
and without thinking I said that's going to mess my prayer walks up.

As things continued to unveil God answered a prayer my prayer walks will not be messed up I can still pray out loud and sing praise songs well at least for now

Monday, August 10, 2009

Lessons from a Cup of Joe

God doesn't miss a beat
God doesn't waste anything

Not to long ago I had a cup of coffee however I must admit it wasn't that good

A little later in the day I thought I would treat myself to another cup of coffee and you guessed it

I didn't think that it was possible but this cup of coffee was actually worse

Without thinking I said you know it sure does take a bad cup of coffee to make you treasure when you have a good cup of coffee

As soon as the words came out of my mouth I realized that God had taken the time to use a cup of coffee to teach me a much needed lesson that I quickly learned to apply to so many areas in my life. Including my spiritual walk

After learning that lesson I've learned to be thankful for every good cup of coffee I have and all the other blessings my Heavenly Father has bestowed upon me

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

What if I give ALL

This week has been a little hectic

But to be honest I wouldn't have it any other way

Next week is my Vacation

Between planning a trip and everything that goes along with it.

I must admit I learned a valuable lesson

I've been trying to gather Children's clothes and school supplies
for an area where most Adults are out of work.

I even had it put in the e-mail at Work
What is that God teaches us "He who is faithful with a little..."

Allow me to set the stage

At work we get paid once every 2 weeks

I usually have to discipline myself by setting money aside for the following week especially for gas and a little extra should something come up at the last minute.
Well my immediate Supervisor gave me a Dollar
I must of made a face
I know me make a face
You got it
I could tell that by his reaction
What ???
A dollar is all I have
The rest is Credit Cards
"Thank you" I said

I'm lucky to have the Christopher sitting across from me
When He said you know its not how much you give
but the thought behind it.
Well did my feet get stepped on and you know I'm glad they did

You see I learned to be thankful for a dollar
A couple of days later Christopher gave me a dollar
I was so thankful
I told Christopher you have no idea what this will mean to the kids not to mention the Parents

So tonight I went shopping
You know a Dollar goes far listed below is my purchase with just a Dollar for much needed kids in Kentucky
[In fact its the same area that I was blessed to help out a nearby Church]

Here is my purchase

24 crayons .20
10 pack of pencils .29
Ruler .19
70 page notebook .15
Folder .09
__________
Subtotal .92
tax .06
Total .98
Cash Tend 1.00
Change Due .02

So you see a Dollar does go far especially when you hear a story
"Look Mom its a Ruler can I have it?"

There really is a lesson to be learned
I know I learned a lesson
Needless to say it made me think of FeedtheChildren
Granted 1 person can't do all unless your name is God, Jesus, Holy-Spirit
Well hopefully you get the picture

I know I got the picture when I found myself thinking of how $5.00 feeds a family of 4

I also remembered what a blessing Angel Food has been to me and my family
Not to mention my pocketbook

You see when all is said and done
Jesus gave ALL He had for you-- for me-- for all which leaves out no one.

What if I give All..............
What if You give All................

Jesus gave All for you........ for me...............

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Walking by Faith

Usually I just write about One Person
Well this week is different

God has blessed me with the opportunity to hear a person with such a vision
His wife is no different
God is using them to impact millions of people on a daily basis
For some its watching their sermons on TV
For others its listening to them on the Internet (inc myself)
For others its reading one of their many books
Needless to say the list continues.........
How God has used them to stretch me spiritually and so many others is indeed a God thing
I remember one of His first sermons that I heard on TV about asking for Gods favor
Well I thought a sermon isn't any good unless you put it into practice
So the following day I started thanking God for His divine favor
In fact God used them to teach me to call things forth as if it was so
the other thing that helped me was a book "Hung by the Tongue" it talks about
how the more verses you know the less a hold Satan will have
Then there was the Sermon about the feed store and now look
They worship in a Compact Center
Always speaking words of life and encouragement
Walking blindly by faith
This person of the week is Joel & Victoria Osteen
Thank you for being vessels for God
Thank you for stretching me spiritually and so many others

Another person that walks by faith
God has used this lady to minister to so many ladies
Not to mention how God has used everyone on staff to set the Captives free
To say that her faith is indeed strong would be putting it mildly
For years she had worked with hurting people doing it the Governments way
Then the moment came that God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit laid on her heart
to start a home.
She had some friends in Louisiana and off she goes
She left her job
Gave up security as the world may know
Went to another state and stayed with friends
Just taking her car, a couple of suitcases, clothes on her back and $1000.00
Now of course there is more to the story.
Needless to say Mercy Ministries was born
She didn't have all the pieces but she had God's word and God's instruction
Thank you for following God Nancy
This person of the week is Nancy Alcorn founder of Mercy Ministries
for additional information www.mercyministries.org

I salute everyone who walks by Faith

Sunday, July 19, 2009

Everything You Do touches Someone in some way or not"

Everything you do touches someone.........

I was blessed to help out with another local Church that went on a Missionary Trip

"Seek ye first the kingdom of God and all His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto thee"

On the outside the Church is small but their hearts are BIG.

One thing for sure is they know how to speak to the Mountains

They went to an area In Kentucky where less than 50% have jobs

It was an opportunity to witness to over 2,000 people

The seeds that were planted for Gods Kingdom

They took a 18 wheeler that had over 20,000 lbs of clothes

They did run out of Childrens clothes.

It was a place for people to come get school supplies and to hear them be so thankful for a ruler after all it was gold to them

My favorite part was no one went through the Line that didn't get witness

In my book 'They got it"

They went to the area where Coal Mining was mostly what people did for a living.

The Average life spine of a Coal Miner is 42 years old

When they reach the age of 30-- they are on disability due to lung disease

The Youth had made salvation bracelets for the kids prior to giving them one
they explained what the bracelet meant as follows:
"Yellow" represent God's perfect Light


Black represents our sins

Red represents the blood Jesus shed for us

Green represents the new life we have in Jesus

Blue represents our Baptism

White represents our purity

Purple represents the crown of life

To shorten the line for clothing and school supplies
Their was an area where tracks were passed out
Another area where on the right hand side someone painted fingernails
On her left someone did face painting on the kids
In front of the tables were 2 people that later became 3 cutting hair nonstop

One of the persons that was cutting hair used to wonder why she chose that as a profession for years
--Then when she saw the people lined up that needed a haircut that couldn't afford one and how thankful they were for it and the look on the Parents face that words just couldn't express their heartfelt gratitude
--Then she knew why she chose that as a career and she was one of the ones that were blessed

I mentioned at the beginning that they run out of Children's clothes
There is one story that I would like to share with you---
As Children came through the line
--When I heard this I knew that I had to share it

----One child came through and said "Mom I already have 3 shirts, I can't have anymore" Well Tammy did the right thing and said your going to get your bag full and that is just what happened

By 7:30 pm ---over 2,000 people had come through the line

I would like to say thank you to everyone @ North Canton Baptist Church for allowing me and a close friend Deb Petre to help with the clothes

I salute each and every one and look forward to working with you in the future on other Missionary trips.

So grateful that you were willing to speak to the Mountain

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Why so difficult?

I was driving home from work today on the Interstate

Usually by the time I get off work its rush hour. Most of the way home there is only 1 lane open due to construction.

Now I must admit this reminds me of a dear friend of mine who is from Atlanta

It seems like every time I go through Atlanta there are doing some kind of construction.

Usually when they are doing construction on the Interstate they are really good at communicating with the drivers to let them know which lane to drive in left lane or right lane. On this particular Interstate its the right lane.

Usually when I see first see the sign Left Lane Closed

Well my thought is to get in the right hand lane.

So I'm driving in 2nd or 3rd gear leaving enough space on the Interstate for at least 2 cars to get in front of me.

Lets face it I don't know about you but I don't see a lot of turn signals

Yet cars insisted on staying in the left lane as if there was never a sign.

Then I had a vision this is just how it is with Gods hand reaching down to mankind just waiting for them to take a hold of it.

After all God gave us a set of Instructions to do our best to follow its in a book called "The Bible"

So I'm still driving in 3rd gear yet no cars get over to the right hand lane until the cars are at the end of the line in the left hand lane.

Yet there were so many signs for so many miles

Yet it was if they had not seen

Yet it was if they had not heard

One of my favorite verses is "Be still and know that I am God."

Every one that has ever drawn a breath has the following in common:
--we've all laughed at least once
--we've all cried (tears is a language only God understands)
--we've all fell down at least once (wasn't it God that picked us back up)
--we've all lost our strength at least 1 time ( only to feel Gods perfect strength)
--we all need to remember that regardless of how we act
---- God is there for me
----Jesus shed His blood for me
----No one will ever suffer like Jesus no not one
----Most of us have a copy of God's word
----God has placed a roof over our heads is God not the one who created the person that built the roof
----The Holy Spirit is there for me
Granted part of the time we (including myself) may want to be in the left hand lane even though we've seen many signs warning us, instructing us in more than one way that we need to be in the right hand lane.
--Is it difficult to get in the right hand lane??
No
--Is looking to God difficult?
No
Yet God loves us so much that He wants us to make the choice to look to God or not.
--Is asking Jesus in your heart difficult?
No
We need to remember the times that God is there
"God is Faithful, He's proved it time and time again......"

--The people that God used in the Bible seem to have many things in common but the one I want to leave you with is They knew to look to God

In a sermon I heard something so simple yet profound

"God measures a persons success by the persons faithfulness"

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Lessons from a plant

Well I must admit I had intended to take a break
from blogging at least for the Summer.

The intention was to work in the Garden, can and freeze for the winter.

Well God had other plans

Allow me to set the stage

This year God had blesses us so much
and continues to bless us with rain
I remember working in the city thinking

I can't wait to get off from work to work in the garden.

The favorite thing about the garden is praying

out loud thanking God for so many things....

Well the day came when it had gone a couple of days without rain

was really excited about this well the first thing

we planted was tomato plants

It was about a month later when we discovered some
volunteer tomato plants already producing

Even though they hadn't received any water
except the rain that God blessed us with and they had tomatoes on them.

The ones we planted and I prayed over
well those tomato plants don't have tomatoes on them yet
but I know they will for God is my I declare it.

Then we have those volunteer tomato plants
that we didn't know about
who if the plant could speak I feel sure it would say
--I will grow

--Though I'm ignored I will bless you
--Though no one paid attention to me I have tomatoes for you

--Though you prayed over the other plants

>ignoring me I'm determined to bless you

As in my Christian walk I learned::

-- I'm the head not the tail

--God is raising me up

--Though I get knocked down I will praise God

For Praise preceds the Victory

I'm a Vicor not a Victim

I will bless others

As for being a Christian this volunteer tomato plant has taught me a lot


--Regardless of how mankind treat's God

God says I love you

--Jesus said though they have not
>asked me to come and live in their heart

I will give them every drop of blood I

have and in the meantime I will wait
on him, on her to ask me into his or her heart
--If you haven't asked Jesus into your heart it's not to late.

Just pray this prayer

Father, I am a sinner

I realize now that Jesus died on the cross for my sins.

Jesus chose to die for me because Jesus loves me.

From the resurrection on the third day

Jesus conquered death and was able to defeat Satan

For it is written in your word Father that if I profess

the name of Jesus and ask Jesus to come into my heart.

That Jesus will hear me and come into my heart.


Father, I am not perfect for I am a sinner

I realize that my heart is not big

but Jesus please come into my heart.

Jesus please forgive me of my sins.

Thank you Jesus for hearing my prayer.

Thank you Jesus for coming into my heart
The next step is to go to a Bible based Church.

Begin to Read the Bible.
The Book of John is a good place to start.

Bottom Line the Creator of the Universe really does love YOU

for who you are, were YOU are
and He longs just to hear YOUR VOICE.

God says YOU matter so YOU MATTER

Thursday, May 14, 2009

Person Of The Week

Years ago He was attending a Catholic school where He was studying to become a Priest.
Along the way someone told Tim about Jesus and He accepted Him as his personal Lord and Saviour.

Well as a Child of the Utmost High I know that the Angels rejoiced in Heaven

If only my brother Tim had the same kind of celebration here on Earth.

It was much different when Tim told His family it was as if He had dropped a bomb shell.

His family disowned him, there were no more telephone calls.

No more Birthdays

No more Thanksgiving Dinner together

No more Christmas.

Tim will tell you that His Church family is His family.

Tim continued to serve God knowing that was the only right thing to do.

As time went by both Tim and my sister in Christ Brenda felt a calling to Russia.

All of the doors opened except for one.

Even though their hearts broke on the inside they knew the only thing to do was to Serve God.

A little over 3 years later all of the doors opened for them to go as Missionaries to Russia.

The service would start about 7 pm and when the service ended they followed Tim and Brenda home.

Most of the time Tim and Brenda would not get to go to Bed until about 6 am or 7 am in the morning.

Did I mention the service started at 7 pm the night before???

When Tim and Brenda were lucky they would get to go to sleep about 3 am.

Tim and Brenda didn't go on other missionary trips they just continued to serve God.

After all they knew it was the only thing to do

You see with Tim and Brenda it wasn't so much this or that.

It was who they represent.

The Creator of the Universe is the one they represent.

I've been blessed to have them as friends for a number of years.

I salute and applaud both of you for keeping your eyes on God.

Of course I will have to stand in agreement with you with God there is everything.

Without God there is nothing.

Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Vacation

I'm going to be taking a short vacation for a while.
In the meantime my prayer is that you will grow closer to God

Regardless of where you are God loves you UNCONDITIONALLY
God gave His only son just for YOU
Always remember your value comes from God

God's Love

I don't know about you but years ago I was blessed to have a very wise person disciple me.
Okay at the time I sometimes thought He was strict.
None the less I have fallen back on it so many times.

I feel the time has come to share it with others.

'IT WOULDN'T BE GOD'S LOVE'
Allow me to set the stage have you ever met someone that you've always looked up to.
Well my first lesson was when others found out that I had met him.
After all He is in the ministry.
I remember it as if it was yesterday there were some people that had a bright idea or so they thought.
I was shocked to find out that they had not been honest just to get money.
So I thought (well looking back my first step should have been prayer) but it wasn't.
So I thought that's money that can buy Bibles, feed the starving??
I will be the first to admit my first mistake was I thought.
Amen and Amen!
Since He was in the ministry I didn't want it to be taken advantage of.
To my surprise He gave them money and more.
Then He turned to me and said "It wouldn't be God's Love"
I said "But?"
He said there are no buts with God's Love
The test begins one I must admit I didn't think I would pass.
Bottom line is that's not for you to say
Since I went through that lesson and eventually passed.
I seem to find myself falling back on it.
Regardless of how a person acts "It wouldn't be God's Love."
Good or bad doesn't matter.
After all It wouldn't be God's love.
For you see the creator Knew it all before the Earth was formed.
every word, every thought, every action, and still He breathed life and created everyone.
Then God takes it a step further.
For you see He loves you and He loves me more than we can even begin to imagine.
Then He takes it a step further I want them to Choose Me.
In the meantime He waits.

Saturday, April 25, 2009

What a blessing

So thankful I went to a barbeque with family and friends.

Allow me to set the stage:
I was listening to to live Gospel Music when I saw a dear friend.

She has a special gift after all she works with those that have special needs.

As she was pushing one in a wheelchair.

I immediately got up and went running so excited to see them.

Needless to say I got the best hugs.

A wise person once said a True friend is the next time you see each other you pick right back up where you left off.

Well the very nice Young man in the wheelchair has got it.

I say that because so many might feel sorry for him.

After all he is in a wheelchair.

Now his attitude is I'm born again.

How right He is after all God says this is my child.

One person (okay maybe several) might see his limitations.

The sad part of it is that's there mindset.

Praise God its not his.

For you see his mindset is "I can do all things through Christ...."

Amen and Amen

If you mentioned the word chains He would just say that's not from God.

He's got it.

When my friend asked where were the cooking the food.

Without thinking I pointed to an area where there were steps.

You guessed it.

He's ready to go up the steps.

Needless to say my other friend pushing the wheelchair wasn't as ready to go up the steps.

Then again I kind of like his mindset "No limitations."

Well needless to say they were cooking and serving in multiple locations.

"Whew"

The best part of seeing them is I got a kiss on the cheek.

For you see it wasn't just any kiss

The kiss came from a very special friend who said I have to kiss all the pretty ladies on the cheek.

Society may place labels on him.

God simply says this is my son.

My friends attitude is "If its in the Bible it can happen today"

After all Jesus loves me this I know.

Oh and I got kissed on the cheek.

After all He said I have to kiss all the pretty ladies on the cheek.

Now He's Got it.

After all God has no limitations unless the person decides to limit God.

After all it wouldn't be God's love.

In my book He's tops.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Received this as an e-mail and well how can I not share this.

After all almost 19 years ago someone shared with me.


THE U IN JESUS

Before U were thought of or time had begun,

God stuck U in the name of His Son.

And each time U pray, you'll see it's true,

You can't spell out JesUs and not include U.

You're a pretty big part of His wonderful name,

For U, He was born; that's why He came.

And His great love for U is the reason He died.

It even takes U to spell crUcified.

Isn't it thrilling and splendidly grand He rose from the dead, with U in His plan?

The stones split away, the gold trUmpet blew

, and this word resUrrection is spelled with a U.

When JesUs left earth at His upward ascension,

He felt there was one thing He just had to mention. 'Go into the world and tell them it's true That I love them all

- Just like I love U.' So many great people are spelled with a U

Don't they have a right to know JesUs too?


It all depends now on what U will do,

He'd like them to know, But it all starts with U.
Will YOU tell just one other person
When Jesus died on the cross he was thinking of you!

Monday, April 20, 2009

You Were Loved

I was listening to a song "You Were Loved."

How right those lyrics are.



Before God created anything I was predestined to Heaven.

Yet God chose to take it a step further.



Even though I want you in Heaven I will let you choose.

Ah my child if you only knew how close I want to be to you.

Still I will let you choose between me and the world?



If you only knew how my Son Jesus just waits for you to ask him into your heart?

After all that is why Jesus left Heaven and came to Earth.

You do realize that it was all for you.

Everything that Jesus went through was just for you.

One drop of blood would have been sufficient, but Jesus wanted to give all

for You were loved by God.



You see before you drew your first breath

You were loved by Jesus



Before you said your first word

You were loved by God



Before you laughed for the first time

You were loved by Jesus



Before you cried for the first time

You were loved by God



Before you crawled for the first time

You were loved by Jesus



Before you took your first step

You were loved by God



Still as much God and Jesus loves you.

Its as if God says I want him to have freewill.

for surely when He sees everything that I've done just for him.

He will realize that He is loved.



It was almost as if Jesus said "Lo I stand at the door....."



Yet Jesus waits for Jesus wants to know You are loved



God wants you to know that You were loved before the Earth was formed





Sunday, April 19, 2009

Resume

With the economy the way it is:

When I saw this Resume it stood out and knew others

would want to see it.




IF IT IS TO BE IT IS UP TO ME"


I received this Resume several years ago and this Applicant has been faithful to every word in His Resume. Since He has been so faithful to me, I thought I would share it with some of you that would like to interview Him or forward to someone you know that needs Him in their life.I promise you, you will not be disappointed. He is TRUE to HIS WORD!


RESUME
Name: Jesus Christ
Address: Ephesians 1:20
Phone: Romans 10:13
Website: The Bible. Keywords: Christ, Lord, Savior and Jesus
______________________________________________________
Objective
My name is Jesus -The Christ . Many call me Lord! I've sent you my resume because I'm seeking the top management position in your heart.
Please consider my accomplishments as set forth in my resume.
Qualifications
I founded the earth and established the heavens, (See Proverbs 3:19)
I formed man from the dust of the ground, (See Genesis 2:7)
I breathed into man the breath of life, (See Genesis 2:7)
I redeemed man from the curse of the law, (See Galatians 3:13)
The blessings of the Abrahamic Covenant comes upon your life through me, (See Galatians 3:14)
Occupational Background
I've only had one employer, (See Luke 2:49).
I've never been tardy, absent, disobedient, slothful or disrespectful.
My employer has nothing but rave reviews for me, (See Matthew 3:15-17)
Skills Work Experiences
Some of my skills and work experiences include: empowering the poor to be poor no more, healing the brokenhearted, setting the captives free, healing the sick, restoring sight to the blind and setting at liberty them that are bruised, (See Luke 4:18).



I am a Wonderful Counselor, (See Isaiah 9:6).

People who listen to me shall dwell safely and shall not fear evil, (See Proverbs 1:33).
Most importantly, I have the authority, ability and power to cleanse you of your sins, (See I John 1:7-9)


Educational Background
I encompass the entire breadth and length of knowledge, wisdom and understanding, (See Proverbs 2:6).
In me are hid all of the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, (See Colossians 2:3).
My Word is so powerful; it has been described as being a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path, (See Psalms 119:105).
I can even tell you all of the secrets of your heart, (See Psalms 44:21).
Major Accomplishments
I was an active participant in the greatest Summit Meeting of all times, (See Genesis 1:26).
I laid down my life so that you may live, (See II Corinthians 5:15).
I defeated the archenemy of God and mankind and made a show of them openly, (See Colossians 2:15).
I've miraculously fed the poor, healed the sick and raised the dead!
There are many more major accomplishments, too many to mention here.
You can read them on my website, which is located at: www.TheBible@Jesus.com
You don't need an Internet connection or computer to access my website.
References
Believers and followers worldwide will testify to my divine healing, salvation, deliverance, miracles, restoration and supernatural guidance
In Summation
Now that you've read my resume, I'm confident that I'm the only candidate uniquely qualified to fill this vital position in your heart. In summation, I will properly direct your paths, (See Proverbs 3:5-6), and lead you into everlasting life, (See John 6:47). When can I start? Time is of the essence, (See Hebrews 3:15).




Send this resume to everyone you know, you never know who may have an opening! Thanks for your help.



BLESSINGS

BLESSINGS
BY: Yvonne Green

Life is full of blessings.

There are blessings that are found in giving,
blessings found in receiving,
blessings found in words of encouragement.

Blessings found in listening,
blessings found in praying.
Blessings found in receiving but there are no blessings found in rejection of any kind.

There are 365 days a year, 24 hours in a day, 60 minutes in 1 hour, and last but not least 60 seconds in a minute. Simply because God made it that way.

Only God knows the exact number of blessings.

Blessings can be easy to find or easy to miss.
There are blessings that words for some strange reason can not be explained other than by God, Jesus, Holy-Spirit, written word and yes the mystery of prayer.
I will give one example :
I have learned that there is no way I will be able to tell you what is going to happen next.

How are you doing?
You might expect the answer to be fine.
Instead she told me about her son who the Doctor was trying to take him off 1 medicine.

I asked (without thinking) can I pray for him she said yes.

A couple of weeks went by and I asked her how he was doing.

At first she said Fine, I said I need an update on how he is doing.
Cause my prayer partners like an update when they pray.
She said He had made better progress. Some time has passed by today she came by
her son David was on 9 different medicines and is only on 5 medicines.

David made better progress than the Doctor had expected. David had to come by and say thank you for praying.

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Just As It is Written

I received this as an e-mail regarding Easter from my dear sister and this is something I must Share.

Yvonne

http://www.gieson.com/Library/projects/animations/risen/index.html

Sunday, April 5, 2009

A LOVE NOTE

A LOVE NOTE
FROM JESUS
By: Yvonne Green


Throughout the good/ bad times there
has always been something significant.
Something that no matter how good/bad
it seems to pull me through each time.


It’s been talked about.
Sung about, read about,
studied about, some people may wear one,
others may not have one to wear.

You should have it figured out by now
If not oh well I will go ahead and tell you I am referring to {CROSS}.


It seems like the more lessons that I learn from the school of hard knocks the more I wonder will graduation ever come?
In every lesson I seem to find
Love,
Jesus

The more I shared in the sufferings of Jesus and endured persecution
Love,
Jesus

When people judged me right and left I found
I accept you for who you are where you are
Love,
Jesus

The first time I stumbled and fell down only to feel someone’s arms around me I could not see to help me stand up I found
Love,
Jesus

When I am around people who do stuff only to get a reaction from me I found “Lo I am with with you always”
Love,
Jesus

When I am around people who want to be Christ like and I stop and think how blessed I am I found
Love,
Jesus


How God loves mankind and just waits patiently
already knowing that one day someone
He created will come to Him.

God does not need to fellowship with man
He chose to fellowship with man there is a difference

If there were not a Roman soldier to nail him to the Cross
Jesus would have nailed Himself to the Cross.

When Jesus was on the CROSS HE saw every sin to be committed past, present, and future

Every good work to be done.
Now I could continue on but as soon as I stopped I am sure that I would learn another lesson that would be signed
Love,
Jesus

If you will recall at the very beginning I vaguely mentioned something but in reality nothing’s bigger than the CROSS.

For me every time I got a note that was signed
Love,
Jesus
I learned another lesson about the CROSS

JESUS’ BLOOD is so important for many reasons:

Forgiveness

I accept you

Unconditionaly Love

Mercy

Grace

List is indeed infinite

Remember there are 2 pieces of wood

One facing parallel
and the other perpendicular
which simply means I love you
enough to give you free will

Now you choose.

You decide
Love,
Jesus

I predestined YOU to HEAVEN
Love,
Jesus

Lo I stand at the door and knock
Love,
Jesus


Gods Purpose

A Little Backgound on this is that I originally wrote this as a song and still sing it Author: Yvonne Green

There is but One God/
God’s Purpose will stand
Taken from Isaiah 46
Written By; Yvonne Green
6-4-2008

For there is but one God
For there is but one God
For there is
For there is but one God

God’s purpose will stand
His purpose will stand
His purpose
God’s purpose will stand

For there is but One God
For there is but One God
For there is
For there is but One God

From the east He does summon a bird of prey
A bird of prey
From the east He does summon a bird of prey
And the bird does answer for there is but one God
And the bird does answer for there is but one God

God’s purpose will stand
His purpose will stand
His purpose
God’s purpose will stand

From a far distant land He does summon a servant
From a far distant land He does summon a servant
And the servant is grateful to hear his voice
And the servant is grateful to hear His voice

For there is but One God
For there is but one God
For there is
For there is but One God

One God.



No Limitations

Taking the Limits Off of God
God's power is limited by only one thing: Your way of thinking.
When we are worried, negative, or discouraged, it shows a lack of faith.
The children of Israel were guilty of it.
They saw first-hand His miracles but still questioned God when they were in the wilderness.
Stir up your faith today and get out of that rut!
It's time to stop thinking about what you can't do and start thinking about what God can do.
No matter what you need, never ask, "Can God?"
God can and God will.
When you truly believe this and keep an attitude of faith,
you'll be at peace and expect all of the good things that you inherit as God's child.



GOD

LOVES

YOU
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1

Everything and everyone came after God, (Jesus, Holy Spirit, Angels) nothing came before.



GOD WILL NEVER LEAVE U. GOD LOVES U


Imperfect People

Okay Guys I can't take credit for this one. This is just some of notes that I took today that I felt like sharing.

Mark 2: 1-12
Imperfect People:
"How do you look at these people?"
"Key to being a Christian is you need to remember not everyone has Jesus in their heart."
"Maturity reflects how you view other people/
How you receive them?"
"85% of people would com to Church if someone they knew would invite them "
God blesses (fill in your name)_______________ so
the World can say there is something different
Go to www.youtube.com and do a search for 8 Reasons Why I don't share Faith for those who want to see the video.
Here they are 8 reasons Why You Don't share Your Faith::
8.] I'm afraid I will get Beat up
7.] I'm afraid that I will not make sense
6..] I'm afraid that people will make fun of me when I ask the ? Have you Heard of Jesus??
5.] I don't know where to begin to share my faith
4.] I'm afraid I will be a bad witness
3.} I'll say the wrong thing
2.} I don't want people to think I''m a religious nut (self--esteem)
1.} I don't know enough about the Bible
These are EXCUSES not REASONS
JESUS NEVER PICKED OR CHOOSE
WITH JESUS THERE IS LOVE FOR ALL
IN TODAY'S GENERATION PEOPLE WANT TO SEE THAT YOU CARE BEFORE YOU CAN REACH THEM
GOD CARES ABOUT SEEING PEOPLE COME TO JESUS
WHEN GOD SPEAKS TO US WE MAKE THE CHOICE::
LISTEN/FOLLOW GOD
VS
PRETEND/IGNORE THAT GOD HAS SPOKEN DIRECTLY TO YOU
YOU CAN GET IN THE GAME OF CHRISTIANITY AND BE AN MVP PLAYER
IF NOT NOW WHEN??????
IF NOT YOU WHO?????
YET PRIOR TO RESURRECTION MORNING
WHEN
JESUS WAS ON THE CROSS
HE SAID
"FATHER FORGIVE THEM
FOR THEY KNOW NOT WHAT THEY DO"
for additional information www.biltmorebaptist.org

Saturday, March 28, 2009

LOVE OF GOD


As I look to the left than to the right I see God’s love.


It is painted in laughter I hear a smile on a Grandma’s face.
Its funny how Grandparents work.
When they are just parents it is typical for the son or the daughter as the case may be to hear both yes and no.
When they become a Grandparent suddenly their love is different.
They get all the favorite things for the grandchildren.
Its common to hear just don’t tell your MOM and of course the child is going to say I am going to do just that.

Cause in the Child's mind I want you to bless me and you want feel good if you don’t bless me.

Kind of makes me wonder where they get an idea like that from and of course I know the answer but I hate to give the answer away.

Then I find myself stopping and thinking that God knew the book of Revelation before He chose for there to be a beginning.

To begin simply means to create, start, implement, however whenever there is a beginning there must be a finish line.

What is so interesting that God knew the order that the verses need to be in.

The written word is a gift from God to His sons and daughters.
After all God remembers everything that He has ever spoken and will ever speak to every one of His sons and daughters.

Regardless how mankind acts nice or mean, an act of friendship or a hate crime the choice is left up to mankind.
Not that mankind chose for it to be that way but God chose it that way.
Yet it makes me stop and wonder because God created mankind to worship Him as we should .
To have an intimate relationship with Him to always thirst for more.
Yet God took His love so far to the point regardless of how mankind treats Him.
He simply says I love you.
With God, He sees one or the other
This is my child who last prayed (you fill the date in)
Or this is my creation that I long to welcome to the family.
The angels are waiting to have a party and waiting.
There is nothing that will hurt God quicker than someone who accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior , yet isn't close to God
. More than anything God longs to hear every son and daughters prayer.

He even silences all of Heaven just to hear your voice.
In the meantime God waits and longs just to hear your voice

As much as He longs to hear your voice
He just simply says it would not be love from their Heavenly Father if I did not give them free will.
God made the choice to give everyone free will.
Just as a child wants to be spoiled by his/her grandparents

God wants to do even more but it all begins in prayer.
The best thing about the Bible is that God works according to His written word
Not mans word there is a difference.

Regardless of your choice God gently whispers I LOVE YOU can’t wait to hear from you.

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Praise God

I was exercising last night to praise music.

One of the songs was titled Oh the Greatest Gift.

Well I must admit I found myself thinking of the words throughout the day.

Okay the first part of the song which is:

Oh the Greatest Gift I ever received was Hand Me Down Love

Love that Stood the test of time.

I must admit the artist nailed it right on the dot.

Granted I must admit I could not even begin to thank God for each and every blessing.

One thing is I'm thankful for Hand Me Down Love, a Love that Stood the
Test of Time.

Bottom line is every person who has ever drawn a breath of life God predestined to Heaven.

Of course God takes it a step further and lets mankind choose.

Grateful for Hand me Down Love, Gift of Salvation, mystery of prayer, ectra......

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Good vs Evil or is it Evil vs Good You be the Judge or is it God is the Judge

As so many others I went to Church.
Some might say I grew up in Church there was just one catch I wasn't saved.
Every Sunday morning I had to wear a dress.
The dress code was a little sticker compared to now.

Have you ever met someone who just seem to fit the right in.
They seemed to say the right words wear the coolest shirts.
Its so easy to accept them after all they fit in.

What about the ones who necessarily don't fit the mold?
Maybe its someone who rides a motorcycle and at every stop He passes out tracts.

Are you more comfortable to receive a tract from a person who dresses the right way verses a person that has long hair, has a earring in, and rides a motorcycle??

What's the difference?? It could be the same tract??

Didn't Jesus shed His blood for both.

Isn't James right God has no favorites.

Could it be society??

What will people think??

Regardless of what it is its What God thinks that matters.

Hate to tell you the following but this lady has it.

Okay your right I don't hate to tell you.

I work with a very special Lady well she is in my book.

More importantly she is in Gods book.

That is what matters right.

Indeed I say Indeed that is what counts.

The word Indeed in Hebrew is like an exclamation point.!!!!!!!

My friend has tattoos all over her arms.

My favorite one is found on the lower part of Robyn's arm.

On one side she has a beautiful tattoo of Jesus.

On the other side is a tattoo of the Devil.

Hey Robyn what's the story with those tattoos'??

Robyn answered the question with just one word.

Mankind. You either look to Jesus or the Devil.

One word answered the question.

Mankind. Final answer.

Robyn has it.

Above all God knows her by name.

I work with her and better yet we'll see each other in Heaven