John Wayne-Day One

John Wayne Quotes- Day 1

     My all time favorite actor was John Wayne, born Marion Michael Morrison.  I believe I have watched most every movie he ever made.  In fact, I watch repeats often.  I never personally met John Wayne, but he was usually the leader and star of his shows.  I have read that even off screen he was was courageous, had true grit, dignity, and integrity.  I researched and found many enriching quotes from him.  They often make a good point.

     I  read that John Wayne once said, "Courage is being scared to death but saddling up anyway."

     What did God say about courage?  There are a host of scriptures on courage.  Most include "fear not, God is with you."   Just one example is: Deuteronomy 31:6  "Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee."

     I'll do one more quote today and see what comes tomorrow.  I read that John Wayne once said,  "A man deserves a second chance, but keep an eye on him." 

     What does God say about second chances?  There is no limit to the amount of times in Scripture God tells us to forgive.  Even in Matthew 18:21-22,  He tells us to forgive and to even give more than a second chance.  "Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?  Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, until seventy times seven."   

     I have to admit here, that in my human weakness, I would as John Wayne said, "be keeping an eye on him," or either be so far away from him I would not have to be forgiving him.  However, although God does see what we do, he is always near, and always willing to forgive us when we ask.  What amazing Grace!

Check in tomorrow for more John Wayne quotes....

     

Timing

     In the final days of the first week of this new year, I am still reminded of my blog a few days ago on being "too late."  However, my thoughts were taken another direction on the subject this morning as I read In Touch regarding how "timing is critical."  
     I thought back to last year and wondered how many times I missed an opportunity to serve as Jesus did.  How many times did I fail to say, "I am sorry," when I should have?  How many times did I walk past a needy person in need of a simple hot cup of soup or provide a friendly smile to someone having a bad day?   How many times did I fail to ask forgiveness and lost a close relationship?  How many times did I ignore my fellowman when they had lost a loved one?
     Psalms 130:2 cries out, "Lord, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications."  I know God hears me when I call out to him, yet, how often do I sit quietly in praise listening for His voice?  I should be calling out, to quote In Touch, "God, what would you have me do? God, I am willing to do as you direct."
     The right timing begins with listening and hearing God's quiet nudge.  So today, I pray for a listening ear, a discerning mind, a loving heart, and courage to action. 

The Patrol

     I often wonder when I am being watched and by whom. One of my worst fears is that I will leave a lasting, bad impression; one I might never have the opportunity to correct. I know from experience that first impressions are very difficult to overcome. My words and my actions are so important. Even the expression I wear on my face leaves a reflective image of who I am and the way I want to portray my life. I never know when a simple smile and a pleasant voice will uplift someone’s day while a gruff voice, a frown, or a discouraging comment opens the door to a poor and negative attitude, not only for me, but for those around me. It only takes a split second for the devil to slip into my mind and create just what he hopes will create an ungodly appearance, a misconception, and a spoiled day.

      I must keep in mind what Satan said in the Book of Job when the Lord asked him, “Where have you come from?” Satan answers, “From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it.” Another version says, “I have been patrolling the earth, watching everything that’s going on.”

      Satan is watching and waiting! It is so easy to allow him to enter “A Friendly Shade” and get into my mind, emotions, thoughts, and actions. Although others are watching me, I also know from scripture that Satan is patrolling every moment, trying to destroy any relationship I have with God, and he is trying to control any movement away from the influence I may have in my witness for God and His mighty salvation plan.

      My consolation is that God is more powerful, and God is also patrolling! He is with me if I will just “stop, think, and pray.” God is the One who will keep me on the right path. He is the One who will help cleanse me of my prideful ways, give me courage, and help me become willing to make amends when I slip and allow Satan to intrude into my life.

      I pray, "Lord, please patrol my territory.  Keep Satan' s influence away and walk with me through a friendly shade."