I Believe!

     As the year comes to a close, I want to acknowledge God for who He is and for all He has done for me in 2017.  He has given me love, blessings, guidance, protection, and forgiveness.  I believe He is the Creator or all and Jesus is the Savior of the world. 

 

I Believe!

 

I believe! I believe!

For all it's worth,

I believe in Jesus;

in the holy baby's birth.

I believe! I believe!

By faith,

I believe in the written Word;

all it saith.

I believe! I believe!

Whereby, He became the sacrificial lamb,

I believe in everlasting life;

in the great "I Am."

I believe! O yes, I believe.

                             ---Mary Crisp Jameson



CALM

     I try to avoid anxiety as much as possible, but I can only do this through the peace of God.   Just knowing that He is in control settles my mind.  Yet, there are times, in my human weakness, that I allow my faith to fail me.   With this in mind, I need to give myself  a reminder of what Max Lucado wrote in his book, Anxious for Nothing.  He provides a new approach to the word, "calm."

C elebrate - God's goodness
A sk - for God's help
L eave- your concerns with Him
M editate - on good things

     I believe if I can apply this new approach when I am seeking CALM in my life, my worries and anxiety can be greatly diminished.  It is well worth the effort to just "give it to God." 

My Shining Knight

     David was a man "after God's own heart," yet he had flaws.  However, God loved him still, and continued to be with David, giving him victory throughout the battles and wars being fought.  David acknowledged God's mighty hand in his life when he wrote his song of praise to the Lord in 2 Samuel 22.  May we all acknowledge God's hand in our life.  The following is my praise for today.

      My Shining Knight!

The Lord is the rock of all,

My support, my solid wall.
He is my shield, the power who saves me
from troubles as deep as the spacious sea.
At the blast of His breathe and voice,
Let me rejoice, 
For He is my refuge;
My God, in whom I praise.

The heavens open at His command;

Power and force form from God's right hand. 
Dark clouds roll beneath his feet;
Only He can wash my body sweet. 
My Lord soars on the wings of the wind;
Blessings, sorrow -He evens the blend. 
His voice resounds; the Lord thunders!
View His wonders!

The Lord is my rescuer, my strength;

Only He knows my heart, to its depth and length.
He is my light in the night;
The spring of life, my shining Knight. 
He is the lamp unto my feet;
In Him, my heart rejoices with a hammering beat.

Who, but God, is my solid rock;
The Shepherd over all His flock?
Only He is worthy of praise;
Only He issues joy over my days. 

The Lord is like the light in morning's sunrise,

Working miracles within mine own eyes.
He is the glistening diamond of early morning dew;
                Praise Him!  Praise Him!
For He will recue, save, and the soul renew,
Like a kiss in the night; My shining Knight!
                             Mary Crisp Jameson

Christmas Story

     For those who do not believe Christ should be in Christmas, let me just say that the Christmas story and all the traditions we observe are truly built around Jesus and His birth.  In fact, Christmas has always been about manager scenes, caroling, gift giving, angels and bright stars atop trees adorning our homes.   Just where did these ideas originate?  I believe we find them in scripture.

Jesus Christ:  Matthew 1:21 "And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins."

Manager scenes:  Luke 2:7  "And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manager, because there was no room for them in the inn."

Christmas Carols: Luke 2: 13-14  "And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

Angels:  Luke 2:10  "And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people."

Bright star:  Matthew 2: 1-2  "Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him."  

Gifts:  Matthew 2:11  "And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts: gold, and frankincense, and myrrh."

 

The Five Senses of Christmas

     As I start my countdown to Christmas, I am reminded of Christmas' past.  They affect my five senses.
     My sight takes in the sparkling, glittering lights as they adorn homes and streets.  What child could not be fascinated by the many different colors of Christmas?
     My ears continue to take in the sound of harmonious voices being lifted in carol, telling of the magic of a Savior being born and laying in a manager and the angels proclaiming,  "A Savior is born!" This Savior is truly the Christmas spirit and the best gift on earth.
     My sense of smell takes me back to my childhood when there was always the scent of cinnamon and the smell of mellowing apples and ripeing  oranges coming from some hidden, unknown cabinet.  Then there was always the scent of fresh-cut cedar waiting to dry out from weeks of filling the room with multi-colored lights which were shedding their delightful glow throughout the room.
     My sense of taste was always overwhelmed with sugar coatings from snow-white divinity, the brewing of hot cocoa, and , of course, those fruit filled cakes
     Then there is my sense of touch.  I still remember the prick of fresh cut cedar, loving hugs as family wished each other "Merry Christmas",  and most of all, the whisker scratches across my cheek as Santa woke me to the joy of Christmas morning with a "Ho-Ho-Ho."
     As we make even more memories every Christmas season, these early memories never leave us, but the one memory that stays forever in the forefront is when I realized that Jesus is the true reason for the season and, without Jesus, there would be no Christmas. 
     I often wonder what Jesus' first Christmas was like and what effected this new-born baby's  senses.  Within His sight, could He see the bright star directing the wise toward His location?  Could He hear the angels singing the song proclaiming, "A Savior is born?"  Could He smell the dusty scent of barnyard hay as it covered His manager bed?   Could He taste the dust laden hay that surrounded Him.  Could He already feel the nails that would eventually pierce His hands as He laid down His life for mankind? 
     Regardless of all this, Jesus really didn't care.  He came with a purpose, and He came to fulfill that purpose.  He died and He arose and I was saved because of it. 
    

                                                   Merry Christmas to All!

 

 

Anger

     The Holiday Season is a time for joy, yet I see so many people becoming angry and anxious with the shopping rush and the time it takes to get things done.  One thing I look for at checkout counters is whether the one waiting on me is smiling - a smile that radiates from the heart.  If I don't see it, instead of being just another impatient shopper, I pray that I stop my own busy pace in order to take a moment and say something nice or offer a friendly smile in an effort to make their day just a little brighter and more joyful. 

    So, what can be done about anger in order to weaken its power over thoughts and actions?

A sk!  Is my anger worth it?  Do I want to become its victim?
N ever let it control you.  Remember: "He who angers you controls you."
G ive it away.  Give it to God.  Pray about it. 
E experience it, but quickly let it go.
R ecognize it, but release it so it will weaken its power and neutralize it.
 
    

The Day The Lord Made

 One of my favorite scriptures comes from Psalm 118:24, "This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."     If I can start my day with a reminder of this verse, it helps me see the day as one of opportunity and blessings.  My days are not just past times, they are filled with meaning and life.   What I choose to do with them make me who I am and speaks volumes for my Christian walk. 

        The Day The Lord Made

"This is the day the Lord hath made.

I will rejoice and be glad in it."
  For, One day He died, yet arose;
  One day He saved me - a child He chose;  
  One day He forgave all He knows.
"This is the day the Lord hath made.
I will rejoice and be glad in it."
  For, this day, my burdens He hears;
  This day, He sustains through all my fears;
  This day, there are no forgotten years.
Oh!  Let me rejoice!
Let me lift up my voice.
  For this day He loves me;
  This day I am set free;
  This day, His grace helps me, just be. 
"I will rejoice and be glad in it."
  For, this day I am saved through Heaven's Source;
  This day I cast away my sins and remorse;
  This day He establishes my course.
Oh, yes!  Where is my voice through life's choice?
Let me sing and kneel to the King.
  For, "this is the day the Lord hath made.
  I will rejoice and be glad in it."
                                         Mary Crisp Jameson

Founding Fathers

     I am sure that when the Founding Fathers gathered to "cuss and discuss" the Constitution there was adversity, much like we have today.  Let's face it, our Founding Fathers had flaws and family issues just like we do.  Even back then, as throughout the previous generations, there have been questions whether we are truly a Christian nation.  Our words and actions surely have not shown it. 
     In reading the Old Testament and God's instructions to Moses for the Israelites, God repeated time and time again for the people to "commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today.  Repeat them again and again to your children.  Talk about them when you are home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up.   Tie them to your hands and wear them on your foreheads as reminders.  Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates." (Deuteronomy  6:7-9 NLT) 
     In order to be that committed to following God's commands and to be that dedicated to teaching them to our children, we must first follow His instructions found in verse 5, "You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength.."
     What are our words and actions showing our children today? 

    

Saying "No"!

     How often does a parent catch themselves saying, "No!" to their children?  We do it for their own good, often to protect them from harm.  As our children grow older, we continue to say "No" to their requests when we consider it to be a harmful situation.  Our children don't like it any more than we like the fact that God sometimes says "NO" to our prayers, desires, and wishes, as well. 
     What I have to remind myself daily is that God is all-knowing.  He has the insight to know what is best for me now and in the future.  He will answer my prayers according to His will.  It is up to Him to give me the blessings I desire in due season within His timing.   
     Thank you God for looking out for me, for protecting me, and for guiding me into your plan for my life. 
    

Megyn Kelly Interview

     As I watched an interview between Megyn Kelly and the woman who was fired for flipping off President Trump's motorcade, I was saddened by an adult woman's idea on how to solve problems and her idea on how to teach children respect.  I was saddened further by the applause from the listeners. 
     The interview went something like this:
Megyn:  "How did it feel to flip off the motorcade?"
Woman: "It felt great."
Megyn:  "Do you think it was right to be fired for your action?"
Woman: "Legal and right are not the same thing, are they?"
Megyn:  "Do you regret doing it?"
Woman: "I don't regret doing it. No, we have a big problem with this country."
Megyn:  "What message do you think you are communicating to your children?"
Woman:  "I think I am communicating to them to use their voice when they can, and how they can,  and when they have the opportunity."

     So, flipping off someone or something is using your voice!  So, flipping off someone or something is teaching respect! 
      I, for one, will have to strongly disagree.  I do not believe a finger flip solves a problem nor shows respect, nor does it show maturity at any level.  To quote the writer of today's Charles Stanley devotional, "Our thinking affects us more than we may realize, shaping us into who we are becoming.  Thoughts reap actions, actions reap habits, habits reap character, and our character reaps our destiny."  I will go even further by stating that our actions influence the actions of those around us, including our children.  We are certainly not seeking Christ or following His example when we are being disrespectful. 

Philippians 4:8 "Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things."
    
    

Ten Plagues

      When God has a plan, nothing or anyone can stop it.  When Moses was sent to deliver the Israelites from the cruel hand of the Egyptians, he had to deal with a hard-hearted Pharaoh.  In fact, Pharaoh was so against what God requested that God actually issued 10 plagues  upon the Egyptians.  Why did God use 10 plagues, since He had the power to impose His will at any time?  Scriptures tell us, "I have planned this in order to display my glory through Pharaoh and his whole army.  After this the Egyptians will know that I am the Lord!" (NLV-Exodus 14:4)  
     I pray it does not take anything like these plagues to wake us up to what the Lord wants us to do; although, I must admit, we are having a lot of devastation  and turning from God today.    What will it take to wake up the souls of man to God and His wonderful salvation plan?  God did not send His only Son to earth to be crucified in order to be rejected. 
     As a reminder, here are the 10 plagues God used against the Egyptian people:

1.  The Nile turned to blood.  The fish died and the water stank.  There was none to drink.

2.  Frogs covered the land, entering bedrooms, jumping into ovens and kneading bowls. They tormented the poor Egyptian souls.

3.  Dust turned into swarms of gnats, covering everyone, people and animals alike.  They came from the dust and spread with the wind's gust.

4.  Next came swarms of flies.  They filled the houses and the palace.  No one was spared from their malice.

5.  The livestock died; horses, donkeys, camels, cattle, sheep, and goats.  None were spared.  For this the people were unprepared.

6.  Festering boils infected the Egyptians and their animals.  The boils spread by soot and ashes in the air which was more than they could bear.

7.  A devastating hailstone blew in killing people and animals, wiping out plants and trees.  Yet it did not bring Pharaoh to his knees.

8  The East wind brought in swarms of locust which covered the whole country and darkened the land.  They devoured the plants and the fruit which had survived the hailstorm.  Not a single leaf remained, in any form.

9.  Deep darkness so thick the people could not see was brought upon the land.  No one moved, and all went un-soothed.

10.  It took death to break the stubborn heart as all the first born sons and animals were struck down.  This brought crying and loud wailing never heard before, all lasting for hours and more.   

Innocent?

     Shakespeare quoted:
"All the world's a stage,
And all the men and women merely players.
They have their exists and their entrances,
And one man in his time plays many parts..."

I stopped here as I considered Pilate, his part, Jesus' part, and our part in the stages of life.  Pilate was a man who set the stage, and he played his part well, or so he thought, when he proclaimed, "I am innocent..."

Scene 1:  The stage is set as Pilate makes his entry.  He stands above a jeering and angry crowd.  Not far away is Jesus and another man, named Barabbas.  Barabbas is a murderer while Jesus is only being imprisoned for telling the truth; however, the crowd wants Jesus released to them to be crucified.  They care nothing about punishment for Barabbas.  Pilate, fearing not pleasing the people, takes water, washes his hands and states, "I am innocent of this man's blood."  Pilate then commands Jesus be flogged and given to the people to be crucified.  Jesus is allowed to not only be beaten until his flesh is torn and bleeding, but is mocked, spit upon, patronized, and then nailed to a wooden cross. 
     The curtain falls, but where am I in all of this?  I wish I could say, "I wasn't there.  I am innocent."  However, in reality I was there.  I was among the crowd.  I was an unbeliever.  Even as a Christian today, I have the ability to crucify my Lord by not acknowledging Him and by going my own way apart from Him.

Scene 2:  The curtain opens and the stage is set with three crosses, the center one illuminated.  Jesus, the innocent Son of God, is there upon that center cross.  He is in agony and pain.  His blood flows freely and jammed upon His head is a crown of thorns.  Yet, He is enduring it all as he shows mercy to one of the thieves hanging on the cross beside Him.  He shows love as He instructs one of His disciples to care for His mother.  He forgives all when He prays, "Father forgive them for they know not what they do."  He shows obedience to His Father by finishing His task here on earth.  He actually takes on the sin of all mankind as He cries out, "My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?" Then as the curtain falls, a loud voice is heard again crying, "It is finished!"
     What, again, is my part to play?  I wasn't there. "I am innocent of Jesus's pain and suffering."  Or was I?  Or am I?   What options do I have in the character I must play?  I can either turn away in unbelief and add to the stripes on Jesus' back.  I can insult and mock Him, or I can choose to believe that Jesus died for me.  I can choose to believe that Jesus was and is the very Son of God.

Scene 3:  The curtain opens.  There is darkness and silence.  Why?  Could it be that the Light of the World was given up in death?  Then suddenly an eruption occurs.  The earth begins to quake and shake, the rocks split, and the temple veil splits from top to bottom.  Graves open up and many bodies of the saints arise.  This brings terror to the faces of His persecutors.  I see tears of grief on the faces of those who loved Him.  There is a sense of awe all around.  The curtain falls, but not before we hear the truth spoken, "Truly, this was the Son of God."
     The part I have to play is obvious.  I am no longer blind to the truth.  I am not innocent in all that has taken place.  Jesus took the beating and the pain for me.  He took the mocking for me.  He took the nails and hung there on that cross for me.  He didn't just die; He died in my place.  When He went to the grave, He lifted me up out of the grave. 

Praise God, Jesus rose the 3th day and is Alive! 

Global Warming

     There is a lot of talk and, yes, arguments over global warming or, in other words, warming climate change.  Whether this is happening or not, God is still in control.  His words are true, and I believe we will always have seasons. 
Genesis 8:22
“As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease.”
Psalm 104:19
"He made the moon to mark the seasons, and the sun knows when to go down."

     Regardless of whether global warming is occuring, it is God who is in complete control of our seasons and weather, and it is not up to me to know the seasons. 

Daniel 2:21a
"He changes times and seasons;..."
Acts 1:7
"And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power."

     Lastly, it is up to me to enjoy what God has given me.  To praise Him for the seasons in my  life.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
 "To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
² A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
³ A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
⁴ A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
⁵ A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
⁶ A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
⁷ A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
⁸ A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace."

     To sum up, although God is in control, it is, however, my responsibility to do what I can to monitor my habits in order to keep my environment as safe and clean as possible. This would include unnecessary emissions as well as littering of our beautiful countryside.   "And God created man...and said.. replenish the earth, and subdue it..."     

Blessings

     Once upon a time there was a woman in need.  She was retired and slowly aging but had the spunk of endurance.  Yet. she was facing an overwhelming  job, or so she thought!  She owned a house which needed renovating in order to place it on the market to sell.  The lady had worked  tirelessly and determined, but there was just too much to get done.  What was she to do? 
     There was her husband who worked alongside her and supported her, but let's face it and be honest, there was still work which needed to be accomplished sooner than both of them could physically handle in order to meet her established schedule.   
     You know, it tells us in scripture not to worry.  It also tells us that God will send blessings to those who love him.  "I will send down showers in season; there will be showers of blessing." 
     Many blessings were sent her way this past week.   First of all, the weather turned cool which made it possible to open up all the exterior door of the house so they could be painted inside and out.  Next, a friend next door used his tractor to haul off and clean up a huge array of junk from the back yard which had been left there by previous renters.  Third, but certainly not least, a very dear friend arrived for the second time and spend his day off  volunteering to do all kinds of renovations that were not within the scope of her knowledge or experience to accomplish.  He worked with amazing speed and endurance.  There was simply no task he could not do or was unwilling to do. 
     There is no ending to this story yet, but the lady in this story recognizes the hand of God in her life, in this on-going project,  in the people sent to help, and in all of her blessings- past, present, and future.    
     Romans 8:28  "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

A Good Boss

     There is much to be said about being a boss.  Bosses are different in desires, demands, and attitudes.  And admit it!  We all want to be a boss. 
     When I think about the boss over me, I have to appreciate the fact that there is only one true boss.  He is loving, kind, and willing to sacrifice His very own life for me.  Yet Jesus gives us the freedom to make choices, allowing us to be the boss over ourselves; however, with guiding words on how to be a good boss.  Therefore, even though you may think you will never be a boss, in the real world you actually are. 
     The Word of God is filled with words of wisdom on what it takes to make a good boss in attitude, selflessness, responsibility, respectfulness, and in humility.  Below are just a few scriptures, but a full study of the Bible will yield a host of good leadership skills.

Galatians 6:9  "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

Hebrews 13:7 "Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you.  Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith."

James 1:12  "Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him."

John 3:30 "He must become greater; I must become less."

Matthew 7:12 "So in everything do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and Prophets."

1 Timothy 4:12 "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity."

Philippians 2:3 "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit.  Rather, in humility value others above yourselves."

Proverbs 13:4 "Lazy people want much but get little, but those who work hard will prosper."

      

Calming Anxiety

     Mark 4:39  "And He got up and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Hush, be still." And the wind died down and it became calm."
     What do you do when you have anxious moments?  It does not matter whether it is a physical, financial, relational, or any simple issue in life.  We all have anxious moments.  As Christians, we have a Holy Spirit living inside of us.  We have the power to use that force to quiet the soul.
     "Hush, be still."  God, the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit are three in one protecting, leading, sheltering.  Seek Him first.   He can calm the waves, the sea, and the storm building within us.
    

Abundantly More

     In moments when our faith wavers, it would be good to remember Ephesians 3:20.  Because God is omnipotent,  he can do all things and more abundantly than we can ever do on our own.  Then verse 21 helps us remember to give Him the glory for the work He has chosen to do in our lives.  
     When I look back on the events of my life, I can truly say that I have been blessed through God amazing works. 
     To add to my own understanding of the meaning of verses 20-21, I read it in several versions:

Ephesians 3:20-21 King James Version (KJV)

²⁰ Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,
²¹ Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

Ephesians 3:20-21 New International Version (NIV)

²⁰ Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, ²¹ to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.

Ephesians 3:20-21 Living Bible (TLB)

²⁰ Now glory be to God, who by his mighty power at work within us is able to do far more than we would ever dare to ask or even dream of—infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, or hopes. ²¹ May he be given glory forever and ever through endless ages because of his master plan of salvation for the Church through Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 3:20-21 The Message (MSG)

^20-21 God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.
Glory to God in the church!
Glory to God in the Messiah, in Jesus!
Glory down all the generations!
Glory through all millennia! Oh, yes!

 

 

A WOW Moment

     Do you ever look for a "Wow" moment experience?  Whether we realize it or not, we all have them.  What makes it so exciting is recognizing them when they occur. 
     When Peter walked on the water that was a "Wow" moment.  When Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, that was a "Wow" moment.  It had to have been a "Wow" moment when Simon Peter followed Jesus' request as found in Luke.  "Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.”  When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. ⁷ So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink."
     Okay, so maybe our "Wow" moments are not so oblivious.  Yet they exist.  Think about it! 
                       W-onder
                       O-verwhelmed
                       W-inning situations  

     Has a rainbow ever lifted your spirits?  Have you been in a near-missed accident?  Has a friend crossed your path at just the right time when you needed them the most?  
     If you simply cannot recall a "Wow" moment, maybe you could be the instrument needed to create a "Wow" moment in someone else's life...at just the right time... you may be drawn to provide  a smile, a kind word, a gesture of good-will --  a tank of gas, a bag of groceries... 

                           W O W !

                

        

 

Alive!

 1 John 4:16 "God is love." 

     God's love is shown in all of creation.  God said, "Let there be light:and there was light."  God said, "Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters...and it was so."  God said, "Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place...and it was so."  God said, "Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind...and it was so."  God said, "Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years...and it was so."  And God said, "Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so."  God said, "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness...and it was so."  
     From all that God did and does, "Behold, it is very good."  He is in it all yesterday, today and tomorrow. 


         Alive and Here

Christ is in the atmosphere.
Living here!
Always near!
A breathe yesterday, today, tomorrow;
A joy covering life's sorrow.
He is alive!
In Him, I thrive.
A rustle, a quiet voice waiting,
   controlling the universe.
In Him, my sins are reversed.  
Christ is watching, protecting;
   Three in One - connecting;
   cleansing, redeeming, healing;
My fate continually sealing.
Christ is like the mist,
 a shadow in my midst;
 a moist drop of dew,
 refreshing, making anew.
Oh, He is alive!
 Hear Him and thrive.

He is a touch, a feel, a whispering nudge;
  loving, thou my final judge.
He is a smell, a taste, a budding flower;
What awesome power!

Christ is a heartbeat, the very soul;

  a guiding hand, making whole.
Jesus Christ is in the atmosphere.
Always here!

Always near!
            Mary Crisp Jameson

Fruit of the Spirit

     As I filled my bucket with produce from my garden, I was amazed by the amount of okra, peas, tomatoes, and eggplant I had picked and was, also, thankful that God had just provided the rain needed to create more blooms which would soon give off even more amazing vegetables.  The yield was good but not as fulfilling as the "fruit of the Spirit."

Galatians 5:22-23(NIV) "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,  gentleness and self-control."

     When considering the fruit of the Spirit, I was interested to find an article taken from Dr. Stanley's writings where he described these fruits.  He defined the fruit of the spirit as follows: 

Love - The highest form of love, chiefly characterized by self-sacrifice
Joy - Gladness of heart, not based on circumstances; Christ's joy within us that is manifested even in difficult or painful situations
Peace- Tranquility of mind and soul, based on a right relations with God; a sense of rest and contentment even in the darkest storms
Patience- Ability or willingness to be long-tempered as opposed to quick-tempered; steadfast endurance of provocation, wrong, or ill treatment, without thought of revenge
Kindness- Goodness in action, expressing itself in grace, tenderness, compassion and love
Goodness-Moral and honorable excellence manifested in deeds
Faithfulness- Trust in God, taking Him at His word; trustworthiness and dependability
Gentleness- That temper of spirit which accepts God's dealings with us as good
Self-Control- The virtue of one who masters his desires, passions, impulses, and appetites.

     Just as God watered my garden to provide more summer produce, we need to nurture our relationship with Him in order to produce the fruit of the Spirit. 

Galatians 5:24-25 "Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.  Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. "

Independence Day

     It is a joy to celebrate Independence Day.  To watch the fireworks on display and to know we are a free people.
     In no way do I want to take away the idea of Independence Day and our freedom, but there is another thought I have about independence.  This applies to joy and happiness.  So many people today are dependent upon things and people.  We expect instant gratification to make us happy.  We look to spouses or family members for our joy.  If they do not perform like we expect, we allow those actions to take away our joy.   
     Actually the only true personal independence in maintaining joy comes through faith in our Lord and Savior.  We need to stop expecting others to make us happy.  That will never happen.  Our joyful independence comes from within ourselves.  God, the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit are the only true sources for lasting joy.  Our final Independence Day will be when the Lord appears to take us home to be with Him.   

1 Thessalonians 4:17

After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.

Romans 12:12

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

 

Romans 15:13

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Weather Forecast

     I don't know about everyone else or every other place, but here in A Friendly Shade we can always use a little rain once July comes around.  The garden gets dry very fast. 
     However, the best weather forecast that I have seen which appeared on a church signboard is:

 "God reigns; The Son shines." 

 

     When we have God in our lives and truly believe in Jesus, His death, and His resurrection we can survive any weather which comes our way.  

Impact for God

     I seem to have slipped and been away, for a spell,  from writing for Jesus.  Although I have not been posting weekly, I love the Lord no less, and I know that Jesus is like the father of the lost son described in Luke, chapter 15.  "His father saw him and was filled with compassion.  He ran, threw his arms around his neck, and kissed him." 
     Although I fail miserably, I sincerely want to make an impact for the Glory of God.  How do I succeed?  Some simple reminders come from the word IMPACT.

I-nform others of God
M-anage your tongue and thoughts
P-ut away differences
A-pproach others with sincere love
C-loak yourself in the Word
T-each righteousness through words and actions

Charles Spurgeon wrote, "I would put it to you, my dear hearer, have you been fruitful?  Have you been fruitful with your wealth?  Have you been fruitful with your talent?  Have you been fruitful with your time?  What are you doing for Jesus now?  Salvation is not by doings, you are saved by grace, but if you are so saved, prove it by your devoted life.  Consecrate yourself anew this day wholly to your Master's service.  You are not your own but bought with a price, and if you would not be like these thorn-choked seeds, live while you live, with all-consuming zeal."

    

God's Love

     Who will ever know the true love of God for "God is love"?  It is such a mystery on how much love He bestows on each of us.  His love runs deeper and wider than our minds and imaginations can grasp and comprehend. 

 

 

God's Love

My amazing God!

A King upon His throne,

focused,

eyes open,

ears attentive-

a heart attuned.

No love runs deeper,

rises higher,

reaches wider

than that of my Holy God.

His love, 

bestowing grace,

showing mercy-

A love found within His embrace.

A King upon His throne,

leading,

guiding,

sin atoning.

A love burning forever,

ceasing never-

His promised endeavor.

By the cross,

He saves from endless loss.

His love,

forsaking not- No Never!

He could not love me better.

                                 Mary Crisp Jameson

 

 



Recharging

    With summer comes vacations and travel.  A perfect time to recharge! 
    When I talk of recharging I am not referring to recharging cell phones, laptops, or other electronic equipment.  I am referring to the rest needed by our bodies and minds to get us through the daily life of climbing mountains, overcoming hurdles, conquering valleys, and resisting temptation.  As we fight these battles on our knees, with God leading, we also need to be aware of His mighty presence in restful times.  We need to continue to listen for his voice in the quiet moments of recharging as we enjoy a peaceful summer sunset,  the calming ocean waves, the rushing sound of a waterfall, or a simple stroll through winding flora-filled paths.    

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:

 he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake,

 ...thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.    

                                      Psalms 23

Memorial Day and the Fallen

     Memorial Day is a time for remembering the people who died while serving in our country's armed forces. 

     I do not know the validity of the following, but I found these interesting, historical statistics on the internet: 

Fatalities from U.S. Wars and Conflicts

American Revolution (1775-1783)	4,435
War of 1812 (1812-1815)	2,260
Mexican War (1846-1848)	13,283
Civil War (1861-1865)	620,000
Spanish-American War (1898-1902)	385
World War I (1917-1918)	116,516
World War II (1941-1945)	405,399
Korean War (1950-1953)	36,574
Vietnam War (1964-1975)	58,220
Gulf War (1990-1991)	383
Afghanistan War (2001-present)	2,381
Iraq War (2003-2012)	4,500



"Let Us Never Forget"
Freedom Reigns ....

      As we join together to remember the fallen war heroes and to pray for their families, let us not forget to remember another who offered His life up for everyone's salvation.   Jesus fought the battle of the Cross and won.  Let us also not forget those who have fallen for the sake of Christianity and those who continue to put their lives in danger by taking upon themselves His call for the Great Commission, " Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:  Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world."

Make Their Day!

     We have all been there!  At one time or another, whether in the workplace, school, or neighborhood, there is someone who doesn't like what or how we are performing.  No matter how much we care about what others think, we will not always be liked.  Sometimes, it is only because others are jealous or simply wanting their own self-gratification.  They may even feel inferior and want to bring a person down because they are more successful.  Whatever the reason, our reaction is what weakens us or makes us stronger.
     You know, even Jesus was rejected in His ministry.  Most of all in His own hometown.  In Luke 4:22 we find that those who rejected him thought of him only as a poor carpenter's son.  How could He be the Messiah?  "Yet they said, 'Isn't this Joseph's son?' "   In the face of this rejection, what did Jesus do?  He pressed on to fulfill His calling.
     So, when we feel rejected, what should we do?  I say, "Press On!"  Continue to do the job you think you are called to do with the best of your ability.   We live in a world of human nature.  Our very core is sinful.  Our instincts lean toward gossiping, self-centeredness, and self-gratification.  Therefore, how should we react toward those who knowingly or unknowingly try to pull us down?    Matthew 5:44 tells us the best way.  "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you."  
     Consider options that go along with these words of wisdom.  Pray for them.  Speak kindly.  Be friendly.  Provide them a smile for the day.  They might just need it.  True, we might have to dig deep, but surely we can find a compliment to give a struggling, hostile or complacent soul.  Go ahead.  Make their day!
     I believe, by turning the tables, we also make our own day.  Our hearts will feel better by being merciful and kind.  Why?  It helps to remove guilt feelings, hostile attitudes, and inclinations toward resentful.   It heals our hurt.  Kindness surely makes a person feel better about themselves while pressing on to achieve their own goals.   Above all, remember, we have been promised our rewards by a loving, forgiving God:
   "Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.  
     Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
     Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
     Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God."

    

Mother's Day

     Mother's day is special for most children especially for those mothers who live by Proverbs 31.   

 "Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies...She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household...strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come... She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness...She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness...Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her...but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised..."

     God bestowed a great responsibility upon the woman.  Not only does she need to change diapers, wipe runny nose, settle sibling disputes, and be prepared for their daily needs, but she needs to raise  her children with a loving and kind heart.  A mother is to "train up the child in the way he should go."  Only by grounding them in the Word of God can she do this.   

     I praise God that my mother was a virtuous woman.  She was honest, loving, and kind.  Her words were filled with Godly wisdom.  She was hard-working, rising early and working into the night to prepare for her children's needs.  She showed respect for all in the household.  My mother feared the Lord, and for that she shall be praised. 

 

The Door

     When I think of a door, I think, "something that opens and closes."  Maybe it opens to let in the welcome or else closes to keep away the unwelcome. 
     Scripture refers to a door over the lips in Psalm 141:3 (NIV)  "Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips."  Here we are cautioned to watch our words.  We can choose to close the door to our lips in order to retain either gossiping words that could "injury and kill" or retain unspoken, unkind words.  Maybe we could also open the door of our lips to speak only kind, considerate, and uplifting words.  The choice and the rewards are ours.  
     If I have a problem shutting the door of my lips, I might need to consider the words written in my In Touch devotional,  "Instead of talking about someone, it's wise to pray for that person.  Getting into this habit will help train the mind to replace sinful patterns with God-pleasing ways."

House-Keeping

     I feel really good about my house when it is clean and neat.  Yet, very seldom is everything in its place.  In fact, the first thing I do when having company is to throw all the clutter into drawers, cabinets, and closets.  I wouldn't want anyone seeing how much my house is in disarray.
     Is that the way we live our lives, too?  We hide away what we do not want others seeing in our lives.  This brings up valid reasoning.  God sees all.  As a Christian, He lives in my house so I have a responsibility to keep it clean.   
     One writer of my Sunday School book put it much this way, "Your heart is the spiritual home of God.  As homeowner, He has the right to go through every room and make the renovations that He desires because He owns the house.  He paid for it with His  blood."
     So, I ask myself, "Am I willing to allow God to make the required renovations to maintain a clean house?"

1 Corinthians 3:16   "Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?"

TURN YOUR EYES UPON JESUS

     God is love!   Why do we struggle in fear with everyday problems when we have a loving Father who is willing and able to care for our needs?  Could it be we lack the faith it takes to place our burdens completely in His mighty hands?   Could it be we don't give God enough credit for truly loving us as His children; the children He created? 

Turn Your Eyes

 

Turn your eyes upon Jesus!

Find hope in the hopeless;

  strength when the storms oppress. 

Turn your eyes upon Jesus!

When the rains flood down,

  Behold His shadowy crown!

When the darkness is filled with fright,

  Jesus is the twinkling light. 

Turn your eyes upon Jesus!

His love is strong;

  winding, twisting in comforting song.

Turn your eyes upon Jesus-

  find worth through the worthlessness; 

  love through the loveless;

  heart through the heartlessness.

There simply is no sorrow Jesus cannot heal.

Turn your eyes upon Jesus!

 Receive His snow-white seal.    

                   Mary Crisp Jameson