It was nice hearing from you Charlene. I hope you and your babies are all well. With lots of love and a hug too! Darlene
PS here's your "mail". teehee

Laughter
This devotional was written by Leslie Snyder

There is a time to weep and a time to laugh.
— Ecclesiastes 3: 3a

One of our family’s favorite songs is from the musical Mary Poppins. “I Love to Laugh” is sprinkled with laughter and often begins a contagious wave of the giggles. The lyrics give a bit of insight into this silly gift of laughter.

When things strike me as funny
I can't hide it inside
And squeak - as the squeakelers do
I've got to let go with a ho-ho-ho...
And a ha-ha-ha...too!

We love to laugh
Loud and long and clear
We love to laugh
So ev'rybody can hear
The more you laugh
The more you fill with glee
And the more the glee
The more we're a merrier we!
It’s getting worse every year.*

Some think that Jesus was always serious, that He never laughed. It is true, that it is never recorded in the gospel accounts that Jesus laughed. Still, Jesus knew the Scriptures. He knew the passage from Ecclesiastes, that there is “a time to laugh.” In Luke, chapter 10, after Jesus has sent out 72 of His followers on a mission, and they had returned and had given their report, we read, “And he (Jesus) said to them, ‘I was watching Satan fall from heaven like lightning…’ At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, I praise you Father…” In my own mind, I don’t see it a stretch to envision Jesus laughing.

Recent statistics share that laughter peaks at the age of four, meaning that four-year-old children laugh more than they will at any other age. Statistics also reveal the healing power of laughter. Laughter decreases stress, releases natural mood-lifting endorphins, fights off depression, and strengthens the body. It is also a gift from God and music to his ears. So, whether you are four, forty or ninety-four, or whether you snicker, tee-hee or enjoy a full belly laugh, find time today to laugh.

*"I Love to Laugh", lyrics by Sherman & Sherman

GOING DEEPER:
1. How is your sense of humor? When was the last time you had a really good laugh?

2. How does laughter affect your life? How can it serve to strengthen your life as a Christ-follower?

FURTHER READING:
Nehemiah 8:10; Psalm 66:1; Isaiah 55:12; Galatians 5:22

We're going out in a little while so I don't have much time to write.
Here's today's "mail"....

A Matter of Perspective
This devotional was written by Kelly McFadden

Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits at God's right hand in the place of honor and power. Let heaven fill your thoughts. Do not think only about things down here on earth. For you died when Christ died, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. — Colossians 3:1-3 NLT

2006 marked the 117th consecutive year of the Oxford versus Cambridge golf match. The two teams met in Scotland to play a combined total of almost 720 holes of golf. After the first day, Oxford was down by a score of 4-1, a deficit that seemed near impossible to come back from. In the matches on day two, 7 out of 10 Oxford men would need to win their singles match in order to beat Cambridge.

At the end of day two, both teams exhausted, the competition came down to the last two matches. As the last putt sank, the Oxford team members rushed the green to congratulate their final player while the Cambridge team members made their way down to console their teammate. The final score was Cambridge 7½ to Oxford 7½. The weekend ended in a draw.

It was the same outcome for both teams, the same score. In the record books, it will show the match as a tie. But as the two teams walked away that day, you would have thought Oxford had won and Cambridge had lost. It was a matter of perspective. What Cambridge saw as a blown lead, Oxford saw as the greatest comeback in history.

The Christian’s home is with Christ. This gives a different perspective on our lives here on earth. This letter to the Colossians reminds them to think about the things of heaven. This means to look at things from God’s perspective. This means to look at the same world, the same materialism, the same pleasures, the same cruelty, the same beauty, but to see it with different eyes. By seeing with God’s eyes, we can have the power to break free from the obsession with self-fulfillment and pleasure, and live a life that helps to serve and love others in a deeper, more meaningful way.

This means living life with a perspective that seeks to forgive, not cling to bitterness; seeks to serve, not gain from selfish living; seeks to give, not to have; seeks to love, not to ostracize. For you have died to this life. With God’s perspective and God’s power in your life, you can conquer the present-day worldly struggles and live a life knowing this world has nothing for you, compared to what lies ahead.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Have you adopted the world’s perspective or God’s perspective when you consider the world?

2. In what ways do you need to change the way you are looking at things in your life so that you can see them as God sees them?

FURTHER READING:
John 14:2-3; Philippians 4:7; Colossians 3:15

That really will be "cool"!!! lol I mean meeting you will be very special!!
I know with you as part of the jury, it will be a good thing, however things work out. I'll be sure to pray about that.
When I see you, (wherever that will be) I'll give you a great big hug!! love, Darlene

Hello sister!!
I miss you soo much! How have you been? I dont hear from you anymore. Or anyone for that matter. I know that I havent been online that much and that is because Im painting a house in the city and it takes alot of my time. Plus I have the kiddos with me so that makes doing it twice as hard. I really am blessed that God gave me this gift and this calling, but it can take a toll on ones body!! Wew! I tell you. I dont need ot go to no gym!!!! Between loading kids up,loading kids out,setting things up,tearing things down,loading the kids up, and then taking them out,fed and in bed is work in itself!! Throwing painting in there is the fun and easy part!!!
Well, anyway, I hope oyu are still doing alright. i think of you and wish we could talk more. You have my other email addres,dont you? If not, Ill get it to you. but for now I wont be online very much like Id like. Plus, I feel like Im not part of the crowd around here anymore. No, I am not having a pity party,really, Im just sad that I am out of the loop most of the time nowa days. There are alot of "regulars" here that I just cannot keep up with I guess. So, I pray that you continue to find AAG a very inspirational and encouraging place to be and not to get too caught up in the people that are here, but on the one that really matters most. and that is GOD. I love you sweetie, and want to comtinue our spiritual; connection and friendship in Christ. You are a beautiful woman of God. Keep on keepin on girl!!!!
IN Him,
Paige

Good morning sunshine!!!

I'm goinn out again so I wanted to "deliver your mail" first....lol I love you. Take good care of yourself. Darlene

Private Sins, Public Consequences
This devotional was written by Leslie Snyder

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgression. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. — Psalm 51:1

Sin is serious. It is enticing, alluring, provocative, inviting, and even enjoyable, but it is serious and its consequences are heavy. Once the immediate pleasure of the moment fades, the gravity of the consequences surface. And even what appears as a small indiscretion, emerges as a full-blown monster whet with an appetite to devour you and those around you. Leadership expert John Maxwell says this, “Sin always takes you further than you want to go, keeps you longer than you want to stay, and costs more than you are willing to pay.”

A case in point is the biblical account of David and Bathsheba, a true-to-life soap opera but with no commercial breaks and no comic relief. David, king of Israel, is home walking around on the roof of the palace (mistake #1—he was home in wartime instead of with his troops, as was the custom). He sees a beautiful woman bathing on the roof and inquires about her (mistake #2). He summons her to the palace to become his wife even though he knows she is already married (mistake #3). Bathsheba becomes pregnant (mistake #4), David tries to cover it up (mistake #5), fails, and makes plans to have Bathsheba’s husband killed in battle (mistake #6).

David seems to have gotten away with the entire sordid affair. But, Nathan the prophet, aware of David’s sins, doesn’t mince words. “This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘I anointed you king over Israel, and I delivered you from the hand of Saul. I gave your master’s house to you, and your master’s wives into your arms. I gave you the house of Israel and Judah. And if all this had been too little, I would have given you even more. Why did you despise the word of the LORD by doing what is evil in his eyes? You struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword and took his wife to be your own.’”

God is serious about sin. It is never hidden from Him and it never comes away without casualties. Simply put, sin destroys lives. Consider the consequences of David’s sin with Bathsheba. Uriah lost his life, Bathsheba lost her husband, David and Bathsheba lost their child, and “the sword never departed from David’s family.” Fortunately for us, the story doesn’t end here. 2 Samuel 12: 13 records David’s confession, “I have sinned against the LORD,” and Nathan’s reply, “The LORD has taken away your sin.”

Today, if you are carrying the weight of sin or have caused pain in others by your actions, go to the Lord, confess your sin and be free. Make Psalm 51 your own prayer. Then, go and make right what has been wronged.

GOING DEEPER:
1. What sins in your life are you hoping remain hidden?

2. God knows our hearts. What steps do you need to take today to be free of sins that weigh you down?

FURTHER READING:
2 Samuel 11 – 12; Psalm 51

I just read what you wrote above this white box. You mentioned Psalm 37:7, "Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him". Thank you for writing that cause I needed to be reminded to "rest in the Lord". I also need to be reminded to "wait patiently for Him".

Here's todays "mail".....this is another good one for me!

What Hole Are You Stuck In?
This devotional was written by Robin Dugall

And he said, ‘then I beg you, Father, that you send him to my father’s house for I have five brothers – warn them, lest they also come to this place of torment.
— Luke 16:27-28 (NASB)

We all fall in holes, don’t we? We’re walking our way through life and sooner or later, we find that we are at the bottom of some hole, looking up at the sky wondering how we got here. It is inevitable. Holes happen! You see, the issue with these types of situations in life is not that they happen, but what we do when they happen. I love the following poem. Read it and reflect on it for a few moments.

Autobiography in Five Short Chapters by Portia Nelson
(Printed in Healing the Child Within, Charles Whitfield)

Chapter I.
I walk down the street.
There's a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I fall in.
I am lost...I am helpless;
it isn't my fault.
It takes forever to find a way out.

Chapter II.
I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I pretend I don't see it.
I fall in again.
I can't believe I am in the same place;
but it isn't my fault.
It still takes a long time to get out.

Chapter III.
I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I see it is there.
I still fall in....it's a habit.
My eyes are open.
I know where I am.
It is my fault.
I get out immediately.

Chapter IV.
I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I walk around it.

Chapter V.
I walk down a different street.

Pretty good image for the Christian experience, isn’t it? Wouldn’t it be great if we could all learn from the “holes” in life and NOT repeat the inevitable one-way ticket back to the bottom? Instead of blaming, instead of succumbing to habit, if we could trust the Lord to guide us to a new “walk” in life, our lives would be different.

Transformation occurs when we are committed to being formed into the likeness of Jesus. Learning to follow Jesus is about learning to walk down streets that are different. Today, choose to walk down a “different street.”

GOING DEEPER:
1. What hole are you in now? Are there holes that you are stuck in? What is preventing you from climbing out?

2. How can Jesus guide your life in a new way today? What would your life look like if you walked down a different street?

FURTHER READING:
Luke 16:19-31; Daniel 3; Matthew 7:24-27

Hey I love Trip! Thw whole 116Crew really

Hi Charlene, there isn't any mail today or tomorrow. I just wanted to stop by and say hi. I hope you're well and your jury duty is finished. love, Darlene

Hi Charlene!! A couple who are friends of ours will be here in a few minutes so I just have enough time to deliver your mail. I wish I coulld sit across the table from you and talk.
Bye for now. With love, Darlene

Courage to Pray
This devotional was written by Jim Burns

Examine me, 0 God, and know my mind; test me, discover my thoughts. Find out if there is any evil in me, and guide me in the everlasting way. — Psalm 139:23-24

Have you ever prayed a life-changing prayer? It is one of those moments when you say, "Lord, I'm willing to go anywhere and do anything for you." Maybe it was a time when you were wrestling with an issue you knew was wrong, but only after some struggle could you release it to God.

At age sixteen I made a commitment to follow Jesus and asked him into my heart. Until that time my life had centered around athletics, especially baseball. After becoming a Christian I sensed God wanted me to go into the ministry. My struggle was between a baseball career and doing what I sensed God was leading me to do (a call on my life to full-time ministry). Finally one day while sitting on the sand looking out over the Pacific Ocean I prayed a life-changing prayer. It went something like this: "God, I surrender my will to yours. I will go wherever you want and do whatever your desire is for my life. After all, you know more about me than me." At that moment I felt a sense of release and peace. God was in control. That very day I believe God led me into a life of full-time Christian service and I have never regretted a single moment.

Are you willing to pray a life-changing prayer? When you do pray that prayer, be assured that God has his best in mind for you. Here's a promise from his word:

"Seek your happiness in the LORD, and he will give you your heart's desire." Psalm 37:4

GOING DEEPER:
1. Have you ever prayed a life-changing prayer? What was the answer?

2. Read Psalm 139:23-24 again. Write out several issues God is impressing upon you. Do you have the courage to pray a life-changing prayer for these issues?

FURTHER READING:
Psalm 139:13-14

Wow! This is good! love, Darlene (again)

Hello!! I hope you're well and your little ones are too!!
I had that scope test done yesterday and it turned out fine!! I am so glad and thankful. I was somewhat concerned cause of my age.
Here's today's "mail".....it's another good one. love, Darlene


Bouncing Back
This devotional was written by Kelly McFadden

Timely advice is lovely, like golden apples in a silver basket.
— Proverbs 25:11 (NLT)

As a junior in high school, I was devastated when I was cut from the top volleyball team and sent to the second team. I felt disappointed, embarrassed and dejected. That evening, I spoke with a friend who passed on these words of wisdom, “It’s not how far you fall, but how high you bounce back that matters.” I wrote the quote on my mirror and committed to doing my best for this new team, instead of sulking over my personal loss. Instead of continuing to fall and spiral, I committed to bounce back.

What I learned that day is that what happens to me in life doesn’t count as much as how I react to those things. I had a choice the day I was cut from the team: I could wallow in misery and quit the team, or I could choose to fight through my circumstances and work hard to improve. Each day, choices like these present themselves. When people are cruel, I can choose to accept their apology or let my bitterness grow. When I am treated unfairly, I can vengefully plot a way to get even, or I can seek the Lord’s wisdom and demonstrate patience as He shows me what to do. When I am fired from a job, I can learn from why things did not work or I can blame everyone else around me for my misfortune and never learn, grow or change. When I am congratulated for a job well done, I can either pat myself on the back or thank the Lord for providing me with the skills to succeed.

Life throws different circumstances our way every day, both good and bad. Wherever you are in your life, it is important to remember that people are watching and looking to see how you are living your life. You will long be remembered, not only for what happened to you in your life, but for how you handled life’s circumstances. When those circumstances cause you to fall, I challenge you to bounce back!

GOING DEEPER:
1. Think about a time in your life when you have reacted well to a disappointing circumstance and another time when you have reacted poorly. Why do you think you reacted the way you did in those circumstances?

2. Why are our reactions as Christians so important? How can you help make sure you are someone who bounces back?

FURTHER READING:
James 5:10-11; Ephesians 5:6-9; Titus 2:6-8

Charlene (Sis), thanks for calling me, "sis"!! This means a lot to me.

I'm so sorry you're stomach is hurting. Please rest as much as you can. We do need to take care of ourselves even when we have little ones.

I may not get the opportunity to send you the "mail" till later in the day. I'm leaving the house about 8:45 AM. If I can though, I will.

lots off love, your older sis!! lol

I found something else today in "the mail". I'll deliver this new one now and then I'll come back with the usual "mail". love, Darlene
Here it is.........

Anything is possible
It's difficult to even know what many of your limiting beliefs are because they are so well entrenched. Yet day after day, they hold you back and obscure your view of life's best possibilities.
To set yourself free of those limiting beliefs, crowd them out with inspiration. The more inspired you are, the more easily you'll dissolve the beliefs that hold you back.
Focus on a beautiful, wonderful, meaningful possibility. Feel how you must let go of your limiting beliefs in order to fully imagine and comprehend that possibility.
See that ultimately, the only thing that really holds you back is your belief that you cannot move forward. Once you've let that go, you free yourself to soar.
Anything is possible. And underneath all those illusions of limitation, you know it without a doubt.
Trade your limitations for inspirations. And fulfill the best that is within you.
-- Ralph Marston

Charlene, I hope you're feeing better!!
I just noticed a sign you have here that says, "it's not a religion, it's a relationship". I like that. That's so true!!!
Here's your mail.........

New Beginnings
This devotional was written by Mike DeVries

And so we are transfigured much like the Messiah, our lives gradually becoming brighter and more beautiful as God enters our lives and we become like him.—1 Corinthians 3:18 (MSG)

I don’t know about you, but I’m a huge movie fan. I love a great story, especially the kind that keeps you guessing all the way to the end. I love that sensation of awakening, when all of sudden everything just clicks and you think to yourself, “Now I get it! That’s why…”

I have this theory. I think we love stories so much because we connect with them in very deep and profound ways. We see ourselves in them. We connect with the emotion and the drama. Even if we know how the story ends, we are still captured in the moment.

But what if we don’t know how the story ends? We find ourselves in the middle of the story wondering if this is all there is going to be. How will the story end?

Have you ever met those people whose entire lives are defined by something that happened in the past? It’s as if whatever took place in the past, whatever pain might have happened, affects how they respond to the present. Their entire identity is defined by their past experience. It is as if the story stopped right then and there.

Perhaps you’ve met someone like that. Perhaps it’s you.

Jesus made this fascinating statement once. He said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”* One Bible paraphrase puts it this way, “I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of.”**

It appears that Jesus is inviting us into something so much larger than just getting into heaven when we die. Jesus is inviting us into the kingdom kind of life now – a life that is whole and free, forgiven and redeemed, restored and renewed. Jesus came not to give us a religion, or a set of beliefs; He came to set us free, not only from something, but also to something. We’ve been set free so that we can really, really live in the here and now, not just someday, somewhere else.

The hope of Jesus is that what we are experiencing is not the end of the story. Our lives are a grand story, with many chapters. So no matter what chapter you are in right now, there is another one coming. Whatever you are going through in life right now, know that the message of Jesus is that whatever has previously affected you is not the end of the story. God has the final word.

Our lives are a part of a much larger story, the story of what God is doing in this world, and dreaming for it.

Take hope today – your life matters. There’s a story being told and you are a part of it. When you are tempted to dwell on the past, or even the present, remember that this is not the end of the story. God is the God of the story – including this chapter, and the next.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Where in your life today do you need the reminder that “this is not the end of the story”?

2. What can you do over the next few days to remind yourself of this truth?

FURTHER READING:
Acts 3:19-21; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11; 2 Corinthians 5:17-20; Revelation 21:1-5

Hello Charlene!
God Bless you,sweetie!
How are you feeling? I havent heard from you so I thought Id drop in and check up on you. How is everything? What is God up to in your life? He is keepin me busy. I am blessed to be able to paint my moms house to sell, but its been more work than I thought. I know Im supposed to help do this because it gives me some closure from this house I grew up in, but Its been a real pain in the butt!!! Hee hee. lol! Keeps my brain occupied which is a good thing,I guess, but I havent been able to spend an adequate time with the Lord like I would like. So, Im feeling a little tired and drained.
My son is acting up again and it really stresses me out. I get soo angry with him and it hurts. I obviously have an anger problem and I need help with it. My son can be soo good, then he turns in to this little monster. Oh, man! Just when I think that he is over something, he does it again!!! Do you have this problem? Anyway, I have to go bathe the kiddos, but I just wanted to tell you that I miss you and that Id love to hear from you. You are loved and I pray Gods blessing s on you!!
Paige

Hi there! The mail lady is here!! love ya, me


Closer Than You Think
This devotional was written by Leslie Snyder

Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.—Psalm 139: 8-10

Love. It transcends time and makes time stand still. It causes people to do funny things and can break the heart of ones close to us. It fights for freedom and dies for a cause. It gives life to the next generation and gives its life for a generation it will never see. Love is deep, secure, strong, loyal, honest and true. It is displayed through a touch, a word, a look or a smile. Love sustains, guides, protects and is closer than you think.

Children know this intuitively. That’s what makes the story The Runaway Bunny* so endearing. It follows the conversation of a Mother Bunny and her baby and what would happen if the baby bunny ran away. No matter how elaborate the baby bunny’s plan to run away, the Mother Bunny always comes up with a way to find and care for the baby bunny. Frustrated by his inability to get away from the love of his mother, the baby bunny finally gives up, settles in at home and lets the Mother Bunny care for him.

The Psalmist also experienced this type of love. God and His love surrounded him at all times, in all places, and in all circumstances. Psalm 63:3 reads, “Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you.” Today, take the time to notice that you are surrounded by the love of God. There is nowhere you can go that He will not be with you. There is nothing you can do that will keep His love from you. God is strangely and persistently accepting of us and readily waits for us with open arms.


GOING DEEPER:
1. Think of a time when you have sensed God’s love and presence in your life. How did you feel in those moments?

2. What keeps you from sensing God’s love more often? Why? What action step or step of faith might you take to experience God’s love more often?

FURTHER READING:
Jonah 4:2; Joel 2:13

Wow, this is another good one! love, Darlene

hello charlene, here's my joke for today-

WHAT'S A CHURCH?

A well-worn one-dollar bill and a similarly distressed twenty-dollar bill arrived at a Federal Reserve Bank to be retired. As they moved along the conveyor belt to be burned, they struck up a conversation. The twenty-dollar bill reminisced about its travels all over the country.

"I've had a pretty good life," the twenty-dollar bill proclaimed. "Why I've been to Las Vegas and Atlantic City , the finest restaurants in New York , performances on Broadway, and even a cruise to the Caribbean "

"Wow!" said the one-dollar bill. "You've really had an exciting life!"

"So tell me," says the twenty-dollar bill, "where have you been throughout your lifetime?"

The one dollar bill replies, "Oh, I've been to the Methodist Church , the Baptist Church, the Lutheran Church."

The twenty-dollar bill interrupts, "What's a church?"

Here's something else I get that I thought of sending. I'll still send the other one in a little while. love, Darlene

March 23, 2009

When the man saw that he could not overpower him, he touched the socket of Jacob's hip so that his hip was wrenched as he wrestled with the man.
--Genesis 32:25

Have you ever heard the phrase “addition by subtraction”? You often hear it used by sports analysts when an athlete leaves a team. Take the Texas Rangers, for example.

In 2000, they signed Alex Rodriguez, or “A-Rod,” to the biggest contract in sports history. He was one of the best shortstops in the game! Yet the Rangers finished last in their division three years in a row.

After trading A-Rod to the New York Yankees three years later, the Rangers finished the 2004 season only three games out of first place in their division! This is a good example of addition by subtraction.

In the same way, God often removes things from our lives that we consider very important. But in the end, we see that by removing that thing, we are better off.

In today's verse, we see that Jacob lost something that was extremely important to him: his ability to run! That's right. Jacob's pattern was simple, he would deceive and then he would run away. He ran from Esau after stealing his birthright and he later ran from Laban, taking all his possessions with him.

However, after the Lord injured his hip, Jacob was forced to confront his biggest fear. He had to face Esau. And much like the Prodigal Son, Jacob was welcomed with open arms by Esau. By subtracting his ability to flee, God added back Jacob's brother.

The Lord may be removing dependencies in your own life. What you may be missing, though, really may be God's provision through these times.

How is the Lord taking care of you even while stripping away things you thought you needed? I want to encourage you to look for the addition that results from God's subtraction.

PRAYER CHALLENGE: Ask the Lord to show you how He is using a recent loss for good.

Hi Sweet Sis!! Your mail lady was here! She put this in your mail box.
Bye for now. love ya, Darlene

Giving to Others
This devotional was written by Jim Burns

This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.— I John 3:16-18

A little boy was told by his doctor that he could actually save his sister's life by giving her some blood. The six-year-old girl was near death, a victim of disease from which the boy had made a marvelous recovery two years earlier. Her only chance for restoration was a blood transfusion from someone who had previously conquered the illness. Since the two children had the same rare blood type, the boy was the ideal donor.

"Johnny, would you like to give your blood for Mary?" the doctor asked. The boy hesitated. His lower lip started to tremble. Then he smiled and said, "Sure, Doc. I'll give my blood for my sister."

Soon the two children were wheeled into the operating room-Mary, pale and thin; Johnny, robust and the picture of health. Neither spoke, but when their eyes met, Johnny grinned.

As his blood siphoned into Mary's veins, one could almost see new life come into her tired body. The ordeal was almost over when Johnny's brave little voice broke the silence, "Say, Doc, when do I die?"

It was only then that the doctor realized what the moment of hesitation, the trembling of the lip, had meant earlier. Little Johnny actually thought that in giving his blood to his sister he was giving up his life! And in that brief moment, he had made his great decision!

GOING DEEPER:
1. Read John 15:13. How does this Scripture apply to this incredible story of Johnny and his sister? Where is Jesus in this story?

2. How can you apply this type of sacrificial giving to your own life?

FURTHER READING:
Psalm 41:1-3,12-13

Wow, this one is great. Darlene

Hi Charlene, I'm sorry you've had a hard time.
I've kinda fallen into some depression the last few days....BUT I think we both need to remember, the Lord is still God and He is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or think. Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world.
This mail might help. I'm gonna read it after I take a nap.
I love you, Darlene

Carpe Diem
This devotional was written by Kelly McFadden

Be wise in the way you act towards outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. — Colossians 4:5-6

A group of college students went on a mission trip to China. When they returned from their trip they each shared the lessons they learned. After spending only twelve days in a country where they communicated through charades and hugs, ten people came to know Christ, and teenagers who were stand-offish when the college students first arrived, cried to see their new friends leave. These mission trip participants learned that God can do great things in a short amount of time.

What an important lesson to remember. God doesn't need weeks or months to change lives. He doesn't even need us to speak the same language. Each interaction, each moment, each second Christians have an opportunity to not only represent who Christ is, but to tell others about what Jesus did for each of us. You may only get one opportunity with a person to be an example or to share the good news.

Each morning remind yourself to seize the day! Don’t miss out on the opportunities the Lord has for you by running through the daily hustle bustle of normal life. Look for areas where you see God working, then make the most of those opportunities. Be ready and be wise.

GOING DEEPER:
1. What are ways that you can make sure you are ready to share the good news of Jesus?

2. Pray that God would give you the opportunity to share what God has done in your life today.

FURTHER READING:
Galatians 6:1-10; Ephesians 5:15-16; Titus 2:7

FEAR NOT, FOR I AM WITH YOU; BE NOT DISMAYED, FOR

Hi honey, God's word is always true. love, Darlene

I am Your God. I will strengthen you, yes I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

Hi Charlene, a couple of days ago you mentioned have a hard couple of days. When you said that did you mean emotionally, physically, mentally or spiritually? I hope whatever it was is over now.
My husband and I started going to a new Bible study last night. One of the things that was mentioned last night was when we are stressed, it can affect us physically, mentally, emotionally or spiritually. If or when I remember things from the study, I'll pass them on to you....unless you'd rather I didn't. love ya, Darlene

Here's today's mail......

Putting God on Display
This devotional was written by Mike DeVries

Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us.” Jesus answered, “Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you I do not speak on my own authority. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work.”—John 14:8-10 [TNIV]

I think there are times in all our lives when we hear the words of Jesus and have the same collective thought, “What on earth is He talking about?” I don’t think we’re alone. I wonder what the disciples were thinking when they heard Jesus teach. Did they have that same collective thought, “Now exactly where is He going with this one?”

In John 14, Jesus makes this astounding claim, “He who has seen me has seen the Father.” In reality, Jesus is saying something quite profound. “This God that you worship, who is far off, has come near. In fact, nearer than you would have ever imagined. If you want to know what he is like, then watch me.” In essence, Jesus was putting God on display.

If you want to know what God is like, watch Jesus. Do you want to see how God would love or show compassion, then watch how Jesus does it. To see Jesus is to see God in action. In Jesus, the invisible God is made visible.

Now this has profound ramifications for us. If Jesus was putting God on display and we are called to live as Jesus did, then in a truly mysterious way, we are also putting God on display for this world. This is what Jesus is inviting us to do as his followers – to put God on display for this world to see. At home. At work. At school. Wherever we go… in all that we do… the question remains: Are we putting God on display for this world to see? If people were to watch us, would they gain a better sense of who God is?

What if in watching us and describing how we lived, people actually would be describing God without ever even knowing it? That would be truly amazing, would it not? Perhaps it could even change the world.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Why do you think God chose to display Himself through the person of Jesus?

2. Why do you think He has chosen to put Himself on display through us?

3. What are some practical ways in which we can put God on display for this world to see? What difference do you think it would make?

FURTHER READING:
2 Corinthians 5:17-20; Ephesians 2:14-17; Colossians 1:19-20, 3:15-17

Hi Charlene, I didn't get your messages till just a few minutes ago cause allaboutGod stuff was in the Spam part of my mailbox.
My dear friend, I'm so sorry you're having a tough time! I wish I could give you a hug. I know that a hug doesn't fix things but sometimes a hug helps. Please consider yourself hugged.
God bless you dear! I was having a tough time and a pastor suggested that I read...Phillipians 1:6. He said this verse had helped him during a tough time. I hope it helps you too! I love you. I'll be thinking and praying for you. love, Darlene

Hi little sis! I forgot to give you something....
mmuuuuuuaaaahhhhhh I think this is how you spelled it. lol
love ya, me

Hi Charlene, It's been a busy morning! I left the house at close to 8:30 to go to the dentist. Then after that I went to a second hand shop and after that I went grocery shopping. I am pooped!! We already ate lunch and in a few minutes I'm gonna take a nap.

I hope you're feein better today. There's one verse that was sooooooo important to me at one time in my life. I was hopeless and felt helpless. I thought I was too hard for even God to fix, I truly did. I was a Christian at the time but I didn't realize how capable God really is. The verse is Jeremiah 32:17. After I read it I thought "even me". I might have told you this before. As I'm getting older, I find myself repeating some things.
Is there someone you'd like me to pray for? If you just give me their first name, that's plenty. The Lord already knows their last name and who I'd be talking to him about.

Here's todays "mail" little Sis!

Saving the Tadpoles
This devotional was written by Leslie Snyder

But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
— 2 Peter 3:8

There is a story of a man who was walking down a dirt road. It had been a rainy week, but with the sun overhead, it was now hot and steamy. Small pools of water remained in the grooves of the dirt road, but most were evaporating quickly. The man’s attention was drawn to a small pool of water. In it were hundreds of tadpoles furiously fighting for life. Overcome by compassion, he looked around for something to put them into. He found a small container and scooped out as many as he could with the intention of transferring them into a nearby pond. Satisfied with his plan, he headed toward the pond. On the way, however, he stumbled, fell and dropped the container with its precious cargo. The tadpoles spilled onto the ground, wiggled in the dirt and died.

This story isn’t too far from our own. God saw us struggling, fighting furiously for life, but instead dying in our sins. Unless someone had enough compassion to free us, there was no hope for escape. Freedom came in the hands of Jesus. His invitation to follow Him, trust Him, and believe in Him would bring salvation. And unlike the story of the man and the tadpoles, we can trust Jesus to hold us close to His heart and never fear an unfortunate ending.

2 Peter 3:8 reminds us of the fact that the Lord is patient and His desire is that no one will die in their sins. His desire is that all will come to repentance. Are there people in your life who need to hear this promise? Maybe you’ve stopped praying for someone who seems out of God’s reach. Be encouraged. God is faithful and His timing is sure. Be diligent, pray daily, and trust God to fulfill His word.

GOING DEEPER:
Make a list of 5 people who need Jesus. Pray for them daily and for opportunities to share the truth of God’s love with them.

FURTHER READING:
John 3:16; Romans 3:23-24; Romans 5:8

Hi Charlene, I went to the place I volunteer today. I usually go there on Thursdays, but since I had that appt. with my dentist yesterday, I went there today instead.
I hope things are better for you now! I love you lots, Darlene
Here's your "mail"....

Today, Show Up for life
This devotional was written by Jim Liebelt

This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.—Psalm 118:24 (NIV)

Recently, I made a remark to a friend about how quickly the year was passing by. I received a blank stare in return. I remarked again. “And….?” my friend questioned. I tried to explain. “And…?” my friend persisted. Then, it hit me, I’m old. Actually, I’m not old. But, I am twenty years older than my friend. I realized that my friend doesn’t have the same perspective on time that I have gained. I experienced what I’ve heard so many other people say, “The older you get that faster time flies.”

Whether we are young or old, whether time seems to drag on or fly by, it’s important to remember that life is fleeting. While it’s natural to desire a long healthy life, not all of us are granted the experience. All we have for sure is today; this moment. There are no guarantees for long life. So here’s an important reminder: live each day to its fullest – to the glory of God. Each day is a gift that needs to be treasured.

If you are like me, you’ve wasted days planning for or dreaming about the future. Some days, we’re so busy trying to get to our future that we don’t show up for today. There’s nothing wrong with planning and dreaming. We abuse the gift of life, however, when we forfeit today’s experiences trying to get to tomorrow. God wants us to be present today. He has created this day that we may know, experience and love him; that we may love and serve others. However you go about it, if you do these things, you’ll make the most of your day.

I’ve heard someone say, “Ninety percent of life is just showing up.” I’m not sure about the percentage, but the saying rings true to me. Whether you are young or old, time is fleeting. Today, show up for life!

GOING DEEPER:
1. What personal issues or concerns, at times, have kept you from showing up for today?

2. What can you do today, to make the most this day that God has given you?

3. Pray, committing to God to make the most of today.

FURTHER READING:
Psalm 90:10-14

These two questions and one statement at the bottom of this are super good ideas aren't they? love, Darlene

A BABY! I'm happy for you! Our first two were 18 months apart and they got along fine. That is till they became adults!!
You've been on my mind a lot. Charlene, this is so nice! If you had your choice, would you want a boy or a girl? We had 3 girls and then a boy in that order.
Sorry sweetie but there's no mail today. They don't send it to me on weekends.
I look for something else you might like. I found something and it fits so well right now! :o)
--------------------
Today I will look for opportunities to continue to grow through seeing the beauty around me and in me.
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( beauty around and IN ME.....lol) Just think, a little one is starting to grow within you! Bye for now. love ya lots, Darlene

Good mornin' mama to be!! I'm still in my pajamas and company's comin in less than a half hour! Yikes!! Here's your mail. I hope you're feeling good. Bye for now..love ya, me

Goals for Daily Living
This devotional was written by Jim Burns

In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.—Proverbs 16:9


Have you ever written down goals for living your life? I'm not talking about the do's and don'ts of legalism. I mean forming a philosophy of life and then living your life to the fullest according to your goals.

F.B. Meyer was a great writer and minister of the gospel. He had seven goals for daily living that I use and recommend.

1. Make a daily, definite consecration of yourself to God (audibly).
2. Tell God you are willing to be willing about all.
3. Reckon on Christ to do His part perfectly.
4. Confess sin instantly.
5. Hand over to Christ every temptation and care.
6. Keep in touch with Christ. (Read the Word, and good books; pray; and seek places and people where He is.)
7. Expect the Holy Spirit to work in, with, and for you.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Write Proverbs 16:9 on an index card and put it somewhere where you will see it often. Better yet, memorize it!

2. What are the goals you live by? Today write out some goals or take on F.B. Meyer's goals and pledge yourself to living by them each and every day.

FURTHER READING:
Jeremiah 10:23

Hi Charlene, How have you been feeling now that you know you're gonna have a little one? I LOVE babies!!!! I think it was after I had our 4th, I finally realized how quickly they grow and decide to enjoy him as much as I could. I held him more than I did the other 3 too, only cause I knew by then he also was going to grow up...sooooo fast.
Here's today's mail. I love you lots, Darlene


Yes, I CAN!
This devotional was written by Kelly McFadden

You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.—Hebrews 10:36

On a cliff overlooking the sea in Cornwall, England, sits a theater built into the rocks. If you were to see a picture of this theater, you might immediately assume that many workers and machines built this picturesque place. However, you would be wrong, for it was the work of one woman by the name of Rowena Cade, who spent the better part of her life planning, building and funding her vision. She spent from 1931 until 1983 building, rebuilding and creating a magic environment on the cliffs of Cornwall to give theater lovers an unparalleled experience. To this day, visitors from all over the world sit in the hand-carved seats and enjoy various productions.

People must have thought Ms. Cade was crazy to spend her days carving seats out of stone to create this theater. It reminds me a bit of Noah. Remember that God gave him the task (and not a small one for that matter!) to build an ark. He built an ark that would hold at least two of every animal and would survive 40 days and 40 nights in the biggest storm in history. Can you imagine what his neighbors thought? What would you do if you came out of your home to see a man building a giant ship? If you are anything like me, you would lock your doors up tight at night and warn the police about your crazy neighbor.

Unwavering vision and perseverance are what I believe people like Rowena Cade and Noah have. Vision that does not waver. Vision that is steadfast. No one can tell them they are inept, no one can tell them they can’t – they won’t hear it. They know what they intend to do and they head forward with determination and a steadfastness to complete their task.

So what does the Lord have for you? What vision has He given you? To what purpose have you been called? I believe each of us has a unique purpose that is waiting to be discovered. When you pray, ask the Lord to show you what He has for your life. And when He tells you what that vision is: Motherhood, speaking, evangelism, teaching, serving…hold onto it. Cling and press on with unwavering determination. For if you do, in the end, His will and purpose will be accomplished and He will have been able to use you for greatness in His kingdom.



Wow, another good one!! Bye for now, me

I had another dentist appointment this morning and then I stopped at the grocery store. I'm tired now so I'm gonna take a nap soon.
Most nights I stay awake too long sitting here on the computer chair. After Don goes to sleep I play solitaire or hearts on the computer. Those things aren't noisey like tapping the keys of my keyboard. I do need to get to sleep earlier than I have been, for sure!!
Here's your mail Sweetie. love, Darlene

The Reprimand
This devotional was written by Leslie Snyder

Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life—Philippians 2:14-16a

“It’s in our nature to critique, isn’t it?” came the gentle and honest reproach from a good friend during a discussion of a recent wedding reception. The statement stopped me mid-sentence. The conversation seemed benign enough as we discussed how the serving line could have moved a little more smoothly if it were placed in a different location. Merely an observation, I thought; however, the gentle reprimand caught my attention.

In the quest for excellence, we have learned to identify the area of greatest weakness and improve it. This is true in the workplace, academics, the sporting arena, the fine arts, and even in the church. Excellence is our goal and many of us strive diligently to reach it. Ultimately, there is nothing wrong with striving for excellence, but in this quest, we often confuse critique with criticism. Webster makes this differentiation: To critique someone or something is to offer a critical analysis or overview. It looks at the whole picture, encompassing strengths, weaknesses, purpose and other effectiveness. Other words that can be used in its place are evaluation, assessment, review or appraisal. Criticism, on the other hand, is the act of making a judgment, or to find fault. Disapproval, condemnation, disparagement or censure are other words to further define criticism.

Paul, when writing to the church at Philippi, urges his readers to do everything without complaining or arguing. Was he seeking to keep the peace so that everyone will get along? No! His purpose is much higher. Check out his reasoning, “so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life.”

It’s a bit touchy. Stop complaining so that we can become blameless and pure. Wow! That’s a great concept! We can choose to be critical -- complaining and looking just like the crooked and depraved generation in which we live -- or we can choose to stop arguing or complaining and shine like the stars in the universe and hold out the word of life. The choice seems simple, but it’s certainly not easy. It takes a lot of self-discipline and self-evaluation to keep critiquing from becoming complaining, but it can be done! Today, make it your goal to stay away from complaining!

GOING DEEPER:
As you consider your words, which are you more apt to do: Offer helpful critique or negative criticism?

FURTHER READING:
Proverbs 27:6

Charlene, thanks for giving me love. I'm here to give you love too.
I imagine it will take some time for you to get over the surprise of your baby to be. Even when a surprise is wonderful it takes some adjusting.
For example, we're as sure as we can be that the Lord led us to buying this house. It's on a river and we looked for a house on this river for many years. We finally found a very old trailer that's on the river. We really liked the trailer and we used it as our summer place. Don fixed it up really nice. We had the trailer for about four years, then last June our neighbors there told us they had seen a house for sale down the river. We came to look at it and I held myself back from saying, "I WANT THIS HOUSE"! I waited (not patiently), and when Don and I were standing at the river's edge looking up at the house, Don said "let's buy it". I agreed 100% This was before we took even a step inside the house.

My point is, even though we really like this house and know the Lord led us here, it's still taking a whole lot of adjusting, even though it's exactly what we wanted.
I know there's a huge difference between a house and a baby, but I think you understand what I'm trying to say.
I'm planning on leaving the house early tomorrow and won't be home till about 3:00 so mail delivery will be late. love, Darlene

Hi Charlene, I stopped at the library in the town we live in now to get a library card. I was really surprised when they told me that because we live out of the city limits I'd have to pay $50 dollars for a library card. But then they also said, since we're out of the city limits we won't be paying city taxes. That was good news. So I guess I need to accept some not so good along with the good. They told me I could go to the next town over or to a college nearby and get a library card at either place. I know the Lord will work it all together for good cause that's what He does.
Your mail is late, but here it is....

Why Hold on to a Grudge?
This devotional was written by Robin Dugall

Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of malicious behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
—Ephesians 4:21-32

While none of us has ever seen a grudge, we have all seen the relational results that come from when people hold grudges. We’ve all seen the unresolved conflict, relational breakdown and family arguments that have resulted from grudges. Recently, as I was doing some yard work, I was moving some heavy cinderblocks. While I was carrying them, I thought to myself, “If a grudge was something physical, it would look this. It would feel like this!“ Grudges are like carrying cinderblocks because they are heavy and weigh one down. Interestingly, we have pretty fascinating language about grudges. We talk about them the way that we talk about babies. For example, you can hold a grudge. You can carry a grudge. You can put it on your shoulders and bear a grudge. Many of us even talk about how you can nurse a grudge.

Think about it this way: When you nurse something, you feed it that which will keep it alive, that which will make it grow. You can do that with a grudge. You can feed a grudge with hostile thoughts, angry feelings, distorted perceptions, harmful intentions, and if you do, that grudge will grow. Besides all that, the real tragic thing about grudges is that people will walk around and carry them for weeks or months or even years. Although they weigh us down and are joyless, we still can’t wait to get up in the morning and carry our grudge all through the day.

Now for some truth-telling: You know as well as I that if you reflect for a minute, grudges don’t add to your life! Truthfully, they only take away life. They strip you of joy. They take away your potential of growing into a more loving, kind, gracious and merciful person. You won’t become the kind of person you want to be when you carry around grudges. God knows that, too! That’s why the Bible is very clear about the type of relational virus that a grudge is. It spreads throughout your entire life. It cuts off that which should be beating strongly in every Christ-follower: The love of people who are loved by Jesus. There won’t be one area of your life that won’t be affected by a grudge if it stays alive within you. That’s why God says, “Let it go.” It’s time to trade in your grudges and replace them with the life-giving love of Jesus. As you reflect on all the ways God showers you with His love, isn’t it time you lay down your grudges and make it your goal to pass along God’s love instead?

GOING DEEPER:
Are you carrying any grudges? What are they doing to your life? What are they doing to your relationships? Are they adding to your growth as a follower of Jesus?

FURTHER READING:
Ephesians 4:17-32

How about that, this mentioned a baby!! love, Darlene

hi charlene, here's a joke i found at the forum of AAG-

WHAT'S A CHURCH?

A well-worn one-dollar bill and a similarly distressed twenty-dollar bill arrived at a Federal Reserve Bank to be retired. As they moved along the conveyor belt to be burned, they struck up a conversation. The twenty-dollar bill reminisced about its travels all over the country.

"I've had a pretty good life," the twenty-dollar bill proclaimed. "Why I've been to Las Vegas and Atlantic City , the finest restaurants in New York , performances on Broadway, and even a cruise to the Caribbean "

"Wow!" said the one-dollar bill. "You've really had an exciting life!"

"So tell me," says the twenty-dollar bill, "where have you been throughout your lifetime?"

The one dollar bill replies, "Oh, I've been to the Methodist Church , the Baptist Church, the Lutheran Church."

The twenty-dollar bill interrupts, "What's a church?"

Soul food for the Day: The CENTER...

The center chapter of the BIBLE is Psalm 118.. there are 594 chapters before and after Psalm 118
And if we will add this we will get 1188... in which the center verse of the BIBLE is PSALM 118:8
What is the significant of Psalm 118:8 in God's perfect will for our lives?
It is better to trust in the LORD, than to put confidence in man.-- Psalm 118:8


When things get tough, always remember faith doesn't get you around trouble..
it gets you through it!
When you relinquish the desire to control your future you obtain happiness...

Prayer:
Father God, bless my friend in whatever it is that you know he/she may be needing this day....
May their life be full of your peace, prosperity and power as they seek to have closer relationship with you. Amen...

Hi there!! Don's sleeping in the nest room so I'm very slowly touching the keyboard so I don't wake him. Bye for now...ssshh
Here's your mail..........

Which Wolf Do You Feed?
This devotional was written by Jim Liebelt

But let the Lord Jesus Christ take control of you, and don’t think of ways to indulge your evil desires. — Romans 13:14 (NLT)

A story (author unknown) has been told about a grandfather trying to teach his son about life. “A fight is going on inside me,” he said to the boy. “It is a terrible fight and it is between two wolves. One is evil – he is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego. The other is good – he is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith. This same fight is going on inside you, and inside every other person, too.” The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather, “Which wolf will win?” The grandfather simply replied, "The one you feed."

Each one who follows Christ lives with the struggle of conflicting desires and behavior. On the one hand, we want to be obedient and pleasing to the Lord. On the other hand, we still live with our natural, sinful desires that seek to please ourselves. This is real: there is tension between the two. What is clear from the Scriptures is that we become slaves to whatever we give ourselves to (see Romans 6:16) – or as the story would put it, to whichever wolf we feed.

Christ died to set us free from being slaves to sin. Though we still struggle, we can experience victory over our sinful desires. How? By focusing on God; by feeding on His Word; by receiving the nourishment that comes from pursuing our relationship with Christ – who said, “I am the bread of life.” The Apostle Paul encourages us to be intentional about gaining the advantage in this struggle, saying “...count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.’ (Romans 6:11)

Today, feed the good wolf. Remind yourself that you belong to God and with the Holy Spirit’s help in your life, count yourself dead to sinful desires and behaviors and alive to Jesus.

GOING DEEPER:
1. What areas of your life do you experience the most conflict between living for God and living for yourself?

2. Will you commit to confessing those areas of your life to God today – and asking for God’s help to count yourself dead to sin and alive to Jesus?

FURTHER READING:
Romans 7:14 – 8:2; Colossians 3:1-10; James 1:12-15

Good morning sunshine!! It snowed here yesterday!! It was pretty so that helped.
How have you been feeling? I vaguely remember how awful I felt for a month or so when I was pregnant with one of our kids.
Remember to take good care of yourself. You're a precious young lady! love, Darlene
Here's your "mail" for today......

Faith IS Action
This devotional was written by Jim Burns

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
— Proverbs 3:5-6

Faith is acting out your belief in God. Faith is action. Faith is never stagnant. We live near the beach. Because of the action of the waves and the constant movement of the water, the ocean is never stagnant. But right by our house there is a water hole. When it rains, the water hole gets bigger but because there is no outlet for the water, it quickly stagnates. Inside the water you can see all kinds of living parasites, disease, and fungus. In fact, only a few days of no rain and the water hole begins to smell real bad.

Our faith in Jesus is no different. When we act upon our beliefs good things will happen, and when we remain stagnant our faith does not grow. Here are some important principles for today's psalm of praise (Psalm 37:3-5).

Trust in God and do good = safe living

Delight in God = receiving the true desires of your heart

Commit your way to God = your life will shine

With these principles and results for our faith, is there really any better way to live than a life of faith in action? Put your faith, your trust, your life in the hands of God and watch the results.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Trust, delight, and commit are all action steps to faith. How can you make these more real in your life?

2. Read Hebrews 11. How do these great words challenge your life of faith?

PSALM OF PRAISE:
Trust in the LORD and do good; live in the land and be safe. Seek your happiness in the LORD, and he will give you your heart's desire. Give yourself to the LORD; trust in him, and he will help you. Psalm 37:3-5

Good moring! "It's time to rise and shine". That's what I used to say to our kids when I'd wake them up in the morning when they were going to school.
I hope you're feeling better.
We're going to visit some friends today. The lady had knee surgery almost a week ago.
Take real good care of yourself.
Speaking of taking care of yourself, when I was at the lowest point in my life, the Lord made it clear to me that I needed to take care of myself. love you bunches! Darlene
Here's you mail......

What Jesus Really Wants
This devotional was written by Robin Dugall

These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far away from me.—Matthew 15:8

One of the most prolific New Testament scholars in the world, NT Wright, once wrote, “The longer you look at Jesus, the more you will want to serve Him in His world." Unfortunately, many people never get a glance of the real Jesus. People have made up a Jesus that suits them not the one that is so powerfully revealed in the scriptures. Just like we are apt to create all sorts of things in our world to meet our needs and make our lives easier, so we mess around with Jesus. If we were all completely honest with ourselves, I think we’d find that a Jesus who plays to our convenience, self-indulgence and the world that revolves around “ME” is the kind of God each of us really desires. Too many create a Jesus that puts few demands upon us. We see a Jesus who promises to open up His eternal bag of goodies for us at the expression of our latest whim. However, the reality is that the closer you look at the gospels, the more you realize that kind of Jesus doesn’t exist.

I challenge you to know and follow the real Jesus. Because He loves us and wants the best for us, He calls us to follow His own example of living a life that involves sacrifice, self-denial, humility, a servant’s heart and a passion for that which moves the heart of God. Jesus’ challenge to us is the same as the one he gave His listeners 2,000 years ago… all He really wants is our heart! Once He has our heart, He’ll have our obedience, desires, and our true sense of worship.

GOING DEEPER:
1. How have you held back your full devotion to God? Are there areas of your life that stay uncommitted to Jesus? What are they? Give them to God today.

2. What would be one way you could serve the Lord today that would demonstrate your desire to follow Jesus more faithfully?

FURTHER READING:
Romans 12:1-2; Luke 14:25-35; Matthew 5:13-16; Matthew 7:17-20

Hi, it's me again, the sun is shining here but it's still pretty cold.
Let me know how you're doing if or when you have time. I know you're a busy lady.
Keep on keeping on, one day at a time. lots of love, Darlene

How About Jesus?
This devotional was written by Kelly McFadden

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.—Hebrews 12:1-4

For a while, driving the 405 freeway in Southern California was an irritating experience. Now, you may be thinking, “Does anyone enjoy driving on California freeways? I’ve heard about that LA traffic!” And while there is some merit to this line of thought, I’m not referring to the traffic. “What?” you ask not understanding. “Is there any other reason to hate driving in Los Angeles?” You see, there was a billboard looming high above the freeway. I can see it now, countless numbers of people driving past its message everyday. My stomach gets queasy just thinking about it! It’s an ESPN ad, seemingly harmless, with a couple of WNBA players on it. It is the text that seizes me… “Without Sports who would we follow?”

In an age consumed with the life of glamour and the love of money, it should not be a surprise that this ad insinuates we actually need sports stars in order to have role models. Who would we follow?! I have an answer. How about Parents? Youth Pastors? Missionaries? Firemen? Teachers? Nurses? Doctors? How about Jesus?

Now don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying that we shouldn’t have athletes as role models. But there is more to a person than what they do for a job. As we pick and choose our role models, it is essential to look at the heart of the person. Hebrews talks about a ‘great cloud of witnesses.’ All around us are people who love the Lord and serve him in their daily lives. How awesome that you and I were not sent into this sinful world alone! The Lord gave us brothers and sisters in Christ who will run this race with us and help us through the entangling powers of sin. The important thing to remember, however, is that it is Jesus who we fix our eyes on. The role models in this world are other Christians running the same race and serving as examples.

GOING DEEPER:
1. According to Hebrews 12:1-4, who should we follow?

2. Write down the names of some role models in your life. Why are they role models? Are these healthy people to model your life after?

FURTHER READING:
Psalm 119:105-109; Hebrews 11; 1 Corinthians 4:16-17; Titus 2: 1-8

Hi little sis!! Thanks so much for your letter.
I just read what you have above about soaking in God's presence. I need to do that more often! I read my Bible and pray but I don't spend time just soaking in Him. That is an excellent reminder.
Someone I know once told me this..."be gentle with yourself Darlene, you've never walked this path before". Charlene, I'm passing this quote onto you, but using your name or course. You've never been pregnant with as many other kids as you have now and you're a tiny bit older now too. Husbands can be difficult whether we're pregnant or not, as you probably know! lol That's kinda funny but it's true.
I want you to take care of yourself.
With a hug for my sweet sis! Darlene

It's me again!! Just so you know, I'll probably be late with your "mail" on Thursdays. I volunteer at a very special place on Thursdays. I'll tell you about it sometime, unless I already have. I'm getting forgetful. Not terribly but somewhat.

A lady told me something about feelings that might help you. She said, "feelings are neither right nor wrong, they just are."
A problem I had (and still have now and then) is, I used to react too quickly to things said or done, especially when it involved my husband. There's a little saying that helps at times. "least said soonest mended". Of course there's times we need to speak our mind.
Just think, the Lord could come back today or tomorrow!
I love you, Darlene

Here's your mail........The Kingdom on Display
This devotional was written by Mike DeVries

But we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.—

1 Corinthians 1:23-25

Brokenness. Humiliation. Weakness.

This is not the image that we want to embrace in a Messiah, is it? We want strength. We want power.

In other words, we want empire.

The force that ruled the known world in the day of Jesus was the Roman Empire. Supposedly bringing about a universal reign of peace, it ruled by force, and by oppression. Taxation. Military occupation. Extortion. Corruption. Crucifixion.

Often we forget what the cross symbolized in the landscape of the first century world. It did not symbolize forgiveness. It did not symbolize sacrifice and love. It symbolized oppression. It symbolized domination. The cross was the way the Roman Empire dealt with political insurrectionists. It was a show of force. To be crucified was to be humiliated, de-humanized. Crucifixion was so hideous that it took centuries before the Church could visually express it in art.

The Romans did not crucify Jesus as a sacrificial offering. They crucified Him because He was dangerous.

In a world ruled by the most powerful empire in the world, the most dangerous thing you could do is proclaim that a new King and a new kingdom was being birthed right in the midst of the Roman Empire and Caesar.

Jesus came to inaugurate a kingdom – one not built through oppression and domination, but one propelled by love and compassion. And His way was the way of the cross. The cross was the triumph of the kingdom of God – the putting on display of the kingdom kind of life.

A kingdom of hope over a kingdom of despair.
A kingdom of freedom over a kingdom of bondage.
A kingdom of liberation over a kingdom of oppression.
A kingdom of generosity over a kingdom of greed.
A kingdom of love over a kingdom of power.
A kingdom of light over a kingdom of darkness.

Almighty God,
We acknowledge that You are the Holy One of blessing and that Your presence fills all creation. As we gaze upon Your Son, Your beloved, we see the clash of two kingdoms. One fueled by power and oppression, the other by love and generosity. May we always be found on the side of love, even though the way may lead to a cross. Amen.

GOING DEEPER:

1. In the way you live life, which of the two kingdoms are you advancing in this world?

2. In what areas of your life do you need to realign yourself with the values of the kingdom of God? How can you begin to do this today?

FURTHER READING:
1 Corinthians 2:6-8; 15:24-25

Hi there. Long time no talk. I been in a season. BUT GOD showed up right on time. Praise God. Just want to wish you a Blessed and Happy Easter.

Hi!! I was just reading the last letter you sent to me. You used the word, "cherish" in it. Cherish is a wonderful word. Thanks Charlene. I need to get goin now. With lots of love, Darlene

What Will You Do with Jesus?
This devotional was written by Jim Burns

Very early in the morning, the chief priests, with the elders, the teachers of the law and the whole Sanhedrin, reached a decision. They bound Jesus, led him away and handed him over to Pilate. "Are you the king of the Jews?" asked Pilate. "Yes, it is as you say," Jesus replied. —Mark 15:1-2

Today I want to introduce you to Barabbas. Strange name... pretty questionable character: murderer, thief, perhaps walked away from his family, evil, filthy, scum!

Sitting in a dark, dark dungeon waiting to die. Smelly, vile, no one, absolutely no one was going to miss Barabbas. The next day Barabbas was going to hang on a cross and literally no one would care. Most people would say "Finally, he's getting what he deserved." He deserves every bit of pain and humiliation on the cross.

Unbeknownst to him, while he sat in prison waiting to die, something else was about to happen to him. Now it was a custom at the Feast to release a prisoner whom the people requested. A man called Barabbas was in prison with the insurrectionists who had committed murder in the uprising. The crowd came up and asked Pilate to do for them what he usually did. "Do you want me to release to you the king of the Jews?" asked Pilate, knowing it was out of envy that the chief priests had handed Jesus over to him. But the chief priests stirred up the crowd to have Pilate release Barabbas instead. "What shall I do, then, with the one you call the king of the Jews?" Pilate asked them. "Crucify him!" they shouted. "Why? What crime has he committed?" asked Pilate. But they shouted all the louder, "Crucify him!" Wanting to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. He had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified. Mark 15:6-15

The crowd chose Barabbas! Jesus... kind, miracle worker, wonder man, provider of numerous healings, lover of children and the poor, humble, forgiving, genuine, had hurt no one. And the crowd chose Barabbas.

Pilate asked a key question to the crowd who had just a few days before honored Jesus on what we call Palm Sunday. "What will you do with Jesus... the one you call the King of the Jews?"

And the crowd yelled "Crucify him!"

Even Pilate was totally confused and asked, "Why, what crime has he committed?" But they shouted all the louder, "Crucify him." Jesus was whipped, spit on, mocked and turned over to be crucified.

I've always wondered what was going on in the mind of Barabbas when he was set free and Jesus hung on a tree. He probably heard Pilate's words, "What will you do with Jesus?"

I wonder what decision he made. His very destiny, life eternal and abundant life on this earth, depended on his response to the single phrase of a Roman leader who in confusion asked a single question: "What will you do with Jesus?"

How about you? What is your response today? What will you do with Jesus?

GOING DEEPER:
1. What do you think you might have done if you were in the crowd who was yelling for Barabbas?

2. What do you think should have been Barabbas' response?

FURTHER READING:
Psalm 72:18-19

Hi little sis!! I just stopped by to say I hope you had a very special day today.
With a big bunny hug, Darlene

Hi sis, why are you having pain and where? I'm concerned about you!!
This is a real nice song. The pictures and the man's voice are good too.

Hi, Don and I stayed home yesterday other than going to church in the morning and the evening. What did you do?
That's so fantastic about your fiance'!! I probably spelled that wrong. You know what I mean so that's all that counts.
The Lord never stops working in hearts!
Charlene, have you told your doctor about being in pain?
Here's today's mail! with love and a hug, Darlene

You Are a Representative of Christ on Earth
This devotional was written by Jim Burns

You are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. — 1 Corinthians 12:27


God created the world

He appeared on this earth in the form of Jesus

He was beautiful

We mocked Him and killed Him

He rose from the dead

He is alive and eternal

He needs a new body on this earth

You have been chosen!

You are an important part of the body of Christ. You are needed to fulfill His work on earth. Your job is to live as He lived and love as He loved. One other thing—He gives you His Spirit to get you through the day.

GOING DEEPER:
1. What is the meaning of the phrase, "you are the body of Christ" from 1 Corinthians 12:27?

2. Did you know you are the only Jesus somebody knows? Today love someone as Jesus would love them.

FURTHER READING:
Ephesians 1:23, 4:12; Colossians 1:18, 24; Romans 12:5

Hi sis! You're a sweet young lady! Thanks for being my pal. It is so nice knowing you!!
We're gonna be goin out soon, so I figured I'd drop off your mail..........

The Gift of Grace
This devotional was written by Leslie Snyder

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.
—Ephesians 2:8

One Easter Sunday, a local pastor used the following illustration to demonstrate the free gift of God’s grace. He called a bright-eyed, eager three-year-old girl with deep dimples and tight, curly hair to the platform. He then announced that she would receive the first egg of the annual Easter egg hunt. The audience cheered as anticipation of the egg hunt grew.

The pastor then asked the girl what she did to deserve the first egg of the hunt. She began to chatter into the microphone about all kinds of things as a smile grew on the pastor’s face. Then, the pastor explained to her that she did nothing to receive this egg. It was a gift. He proceeded to give her a new Easter basket full of candy and toys. Once more, the crowd cheered with excitement. The pastor asked the eager little girl what she had done to receive the Easter basket and again she began to chatter into the microphone. The crowd was beginning to pick up on the message.

Again, the Pastor told the girl that she did nothing to receive the Easter basket. As if that were not enough, the pastor looked at a brand-new bicycle that was to be given away to one fortunate boy or girl, and told her there was one more gift he had for her. As another volunteer brought the shiny new bicycle to her, the audience went wild. The pastor informed the little girl that this bicycle was hers. The audience cheered with delight as the little girl’s face shone with unmistakable joy. For the third time, the pastor questioned the girl about what she had done do to receive this brand-new, shiny bicycle. Before she could begin chattering gleefully into the microphone, the pastor whispered into her ear. She looked at him and then, into the microphone, she timidly said the word “nothing.” Everyone cheered and the egg hunt began.

Grace…God’s unmerited favor toward us. It is a free gift, unearned, undeserved and waiting to be received. The apostle Paul tells us in his letter to the church in Ephesus that salvation is a gift of God. We cannot earn it, work toward it, and we certainly do not deserve it. It is simply a gift. And, as with any gift, we must choose to receive it. It sounds too easy and I suppose it is. That is part of the mystery of grace. Today, ask yourself, “Have I accepted the gift of God’s grace or am I working to receive his love and acceptance?” Just like a package that is beautifully wrapped with your name on it, grace is extended to you today – not because you deserve it, but because God loves you. Will you accept the gift?

GOING DEEPER:
Today, take some time to thank God for His gift of grace. Allow that grace to pour over you like a gentle rain.

FURTHER READING:
Romans 3:23-24; John 1:16; Acts 15:11

Wow, that was good!!! Darlene

Thanks so much for sending me a kiss! I'm smiling. You are such a dear young lady.
Just so you know, I don't always like Don, but I do love him.
Don and I are leaving now to meet a couple for lunch. We've never met them before EXCEPT her and I met in an osteoporosis group on line!! I wish I could meet you! Please pray for me. I'm very nervous. I doubt if I need to be nervous, but I am.
Here's your mail little sis!!! It's sealed with a mmaaaauuuhhhh! lol

The Discussion Starter
This devotional was written by Kelly McFadden

For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: to an unknown God. Now what you worship as something unknown I am going to proclaim to you.—Acts 17:23

If you were to hop on a double-decker bus in England you may come across a new billboard that’s getting lots of press these days. An advertisement campaign for atheism has broadcast the slogan: “There's probably no God. Now stop worrying and enjoy your life.” These signs can be found on the sides of over 800 buses and subways throughout the UK. Blasphemy? Ridiculous? Genius? Thought-provoking? Maybe all of these things. There are a lot of opinions about these billboards and the campaign that started it.

One thing these signs have become is a conversation starter. Throughout the world, in the beginning of 2009 these banner ads were being discussed on television, radio and by people who saw or heard about the campaign. This campaign begs people to ask the question “Is there a God?” And that is a great question to ask, especially for those who have never really taken the time to think about it.

I love the response of one church in Madrid, where the campaign is headed next. The pastor and his congregation donated the money for two signs that will read, “God does exist. Enjoy life in Christ.” They are viewing the signs as conversation starters and responding with the life-giving answer.

When Paul preached in Athens, he was troubled by the many idols he saw. While there, he saw an altar for the “Unknown God.” Paul was able to use that inscription to explain to the people of Athens that the God they do not know is the God he preached about…the one, true and only God. I believe these ads and others like them that will probably follow can open the discussion towards talking about the one true God. Like the pastor in Madrid, we can respond: “God does exist. Enjoy life in Christ.”

GOING DEEPER:
1. Where are you at in your walk with God? Are you prepared to have discussions and answer questions about who He is?

2. So many people do not know God. How can you help proclaim the message of Jesus to those around you?

FURTHER READING:
Psalm 42; Acts 17:22-29; Galatians 2:20

Bye sweetie! Darlene

I'm glad my saying what I did about not alwaya liking Don helped you!! It's kinda funny cause I might try soooo hard to think of something that might help but when I wrote that I didn't even think about it helping you. God has a plan that is far different than I might think. I just thought of a verse. This is NOT a quote...
He is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or even think.
When will you be seeing your mid-wife? I e-mail with a lady who lives in Trindad who used to be a nurse and mid-wife. How about that?
About you and I meeting, only the Lord knows that. I live in northern Illinois. If we do take a trip east sometime, I will be sure to let you know right away!
Here's your mail honey........mmauuuuhhh!!

Getting Blown Around or Sailing Straight?
This devotional was written by Robin Dugall

As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming; but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ…—Ephesians 4:14-15 (NASB)

Years ago, I took a sailing class at a local center for “Oceanic Arts” (fancy name for a Sailing Center). The class was designed to get us sailing like the pros within a few months. Going into the class, I am now sad to admit, I had a pretty arrogant attitude. Having been a person with a lifelong love for the ocean, I thought I would have this sailing “thing” down quickly.

The second class, I got in my trusty 14 foot Lido boat, hoisted my sail like the best of sailors, lowered the rudder into the water and eagerly pushed off from the dock. Within moments, though, I started to panic. For some reason, the wind was blowing my boat sideways across the water, very quickly pushing me right into a significantly larger craft. I quickly checked all the necessities and still was confused, beginning to panic at the thought of having to face a huge lawsuit for putting a “ding” in a very expensive yacht. Then, I heard it; it came from the bullhorn of our instructor, “put your centerboard down.” Well, everyone in the class looked at me as if I was some sort of idiot. You see, you cannot sail a boat that has NO centerboard. It is what gives you the opportunity to maneuver. Without it, you are at the mercy of the winds and your own incompetence.

In life, it doesn’t take long to realize that we all need a centerboard when it comes to navigating the ever-challenging and difficult winds of our lives. There are winds blowing in all sorts of directions, trying to take us here and there in our culture. We constantly hear messages to “buy that, do this, take advantage of people, live for yourself, and indulge your every appetite…” Frankly, the list of messages we see and hear every day is too long to even summarize. Without a centerboard, without a set of values that guide our lives, we are certainly lost. God’s Word provides us with the values that can give us the stability and sense of confidence to navigate the most challenging of life’s seas. God’s Word is readily available to speak to wandering and confused souls who desperately long to live by their God-given design.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Right now, think about your life. Are you drifting or being blown around by the ever-shifting winds of life?

2. How often do you realize your need for the sure and certain foundation of God’s Word? What do you do to act upon that realization?

FURTHER READING:
Galatians 5:22-23; Matthew 7:24-27; Psalm 119; 2 Timothy 3:16-17

bye!

Good morning sunshine!! How are you doing?
It's a very pretty day here. I think it was up into the 70's yesterday and supposed to be in the low 70's today.
I washed two windows this morning! I never did enjoy housework. It's true. I do better at it than I used to, but i do it because it needs to be done, not because I like it. I guess that's ok, as long as it gets done. Maybe I should look at other things this way too. huuummmmm
Here's your mail sweetie!

Are You Willing to Change Course?
This devotional was written by Jim Liebelt

There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death.— Proverbs 14:12 (NLT)

A battleship appeared to be on a collision course with another ship one foggy evening. The battleship’s captain, radioed to the unknown ship, “Advise you change course 20 degrees to avoid collision.” Someone on a radio replied, “Advise you change course 20 degrees to avoid collision.” The battleship’s captain was not amused. He radioed back, “I am a ship’s captain. Change course 20 degrees, now!” Then came another reply, “I’m a seaman, second-class, and I advise you to change course 20 degrees, now!” The captain was furious, “This is a battleship! I order you to change course 20 degrees, immediately!” The seaman radioed back, “I am a lighthouse!”

Have you ever found yourself in a situation, not unlike the ship’s captain, where you just don’t want to budge on your position? Everyone is stubborn from time to time, but people who live a lifestyle of stubbornness are dangerous to their relationships and spiritual lives.

When we are overly stubborn with others we build walls that prevent relationships from growing. When those walls are high enough, they actually cause relationships to die. Relationships are based on give and take. In successful relationships no one has their own way all of the time. Both in friendships and in family relationships, the one who is never willing to “change course” damages those relationships.

Stubbornness in our relationship with God works much in the same way as stubbornness with friends and family. Being stubborn with God means that we really don’t want to please the Lord. We want to call our own shots and determine our own course in life. In our stubbornness, we reduce God’s role in our lives to that of a pocket genie, the “magic lamp” we rub and ask for favors when we want something for ourselves. Being stubborn with God is sin, plain and simple.

When refusing to change course we might well find ourselves, much like the battleship captain, on the verge of disaster. We may get what we want, but getting what we want can actually destroy us.

My challenge for you today, both in relationships with people and God, is that you be willing to change course if necessary, in order to build your relationships instead of tearing them down.

GOING DEEPER:
1. What areas of your life do you most often find yourself unwilling to change course?

2. Have you damaged relationships with people or with God by being stubborn? If so, will you have the courage to ask them for their forgiveness?

FURTHER READING:
Nehemiah 9:29; Jeremiah 7:24; Romans 2:5; Hebrews 3:15

Wow, this hit home with me. I can be very stubborn at times, just ask Don! love, Darlene

Good morning Charlene.
When I'm down or not feeling up to par, it really helps for me to remember some of the wonderful things the Lord has done in my life. I'm feeling somewhat sad right now so this is what I'm going to do. The Lord has been extremely good to me in so many ways, so this won't be hard to do.
Here's your mail Sis! love, Darlene

Don't Stop...Don't Quit
This devotional was written by Jim Burns

He will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.—
1 Corinthians 1:8-9

Today's story is for those who, like myself, at times get discouraged with their progress in their spiritual life. Don't stop.... Don't quit. God will help you through the power of his Holy Spirit.

Ignace Jan Paderewski, the famous composer-pianist, was scheduled to perform at a great concert hall in America. It was an evening to remember—black tuxedos and long evening dresses, a high society extravaganza. Present in the audience that evening was a mother with her fidgety nine-year-old son. Weary of waiting, he squirmed constantly in his seat. His mother was in hopes that her boy would be encouraged to practice the piano if he could just hear the immortal Paderewski at the keyboard. So—against the little boy's wishes—he had come.

As she turned to talk with friends, her son could stay seated no longer. He slipped away from her side, strangely drawn to the ebony concert grand Steinway and its leather tufted stool on the huge stage flooded with blinding lights. Without much notice from the sophisticated audience, the boy sat down at the stool, staring wide-eyed at the black and white keys. He placed his small, trembling fingers in the right location and began to play "chopsticks." The roar of the crowd was hushed as hundreds of frowning faces turned in his direction. Irritated and embarrassed, they began to shout: "Get that boy away from there!" "Who'd bring a kid that young in here?" "Where's his mother?" "Somebody stop him!"

Backstage, the master overheard the sounds out front and quickly put together in his mind what was happening. Hurriedly, he grabbed his coat and rushed toward the stage. Without one word of announcement he stooped over behind the boy, reached around both sides, and began to improvise a countermelody to harmonize with and enhance "chopsticks." As the two of them played together, Paderewski kept whispering in the boy's ear "Keep going. Don't quit, son. Keep playing. Don't stop... don't quit."

God is the maestro who improvises a countermelody, and enhances our efforts. Like Paderewski, he whispers in our ear. "Don't stop.... Don't give up." He recognizes and encourages us to continue, even when our efforts appear small—especially in the eyes of others (or how we think others see our efforts).

GOING DEEPER:
1. Have you ever felt like giving up? How does this story inspire you to keep on going?

2. According to Philippians 1:6 and 1 Corinthians 1:8-9, what part is God's job in your life?

FURTHER READING:
Philippians 1:6; Psalm 138

This sure helped me!! XO's

Hi sis, I'm still in my pajama's so I'm going to make this short.
I'm feeling better today than I was yesterday.
I hope you feeling good. I forgot, how old are your kids?
Here's your mail sis!

Lights, Camera, Action!
This devotional was written by Kelly McFadden

“Share in each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.”—Galatians 6:2

My son knows how to “turn it on.” He is only nine months old, but if you hold a camera in front of him and say, “smile,” he could be in the middle of a crying fit and he will flash one of the biggest, brightest smiles you have ever seen. It makes for great pictures, but I can’t help but think how often I do this myself. Instead of letting those close to me know how I feel and what is happening in my life, I simply put on the smile everyone wants to see. I don’t think that is always what God wants from us.

Now I am not saying that everyone should walk around like “Debbie Downer” when they are in a crummy mood. However, no Christian should ever have to walk through life’s struggles alone. As Christians, we are called to share in each other’s burdens. This is a way we obey Christ. This does not necessarily put the responsibility on everyone else when it comes to caring for our needs. We must be willing to share our burdens with those who are close to us.

Christians work best as the body of Christ when we are willing to be open, honest and journey through life together. That means seeking accountability in areas where we sin and fall short. It means praying for each other. It means rejoicing with each other and mourning with each other. But if we never share how we are feeling, we are taking that blessing away from our brothers and sisters in Christ. If we always hide behind a smile and never open up to those who are close to us, we have fooled ourselves.

Perhaps you have never helped to carry another’s burdens because it feels like too much. God doesn’t ask you to do it alone. The next step is to cast all your cares and worries onto the Lord. A part of helping carry those burdens means lifting them up to the Lord in prayer and trusting in His sovereignty to care for each and every one of us.

GOING DEEPER:
1. How are things going with you right now? Is there an area of your life where you need to reach out to another believer and allow him or her to help you carry your burden?

2. Do you know someone who needs help carrying his or her burden? How can you reach out today?

FURTHER READING:
Galatians 1:10; 1 Peter 5:7; Romans 12:15-21

Wow, another good one!!! I read this out loud to Don.
love, Darlene