by admin | Oct 7, 2008 | Family/Marriage, Kingdom Comments, Relationship Not Religion!
My mind tells me I am 50 and my body thinks it is 100, and I have to comprise and accept the truth….soon to be 75. Since I have been seeking and resting on my relationship with the Lord for so many years; and because of my love for my grandchildren they trust me not to judge them, and they look to me for insights to God.
So I won’t talk to them about economics, or money or budgets, but where do we stand with God in all of this chaos. Our natural inclination is to think of God as Santa Claus; willing and able to give us everything we want if we are good.
God is sovereign, meaning He can do anything. But in His sovereignty He has limited what He will and will not do. His ‘utility packages’ that run the Universe on a pre-set course are only changed when we pray in agreement with the desires of His Heart.
Just this once I want to talk about God as our friend. The Old Testament is full of stories of other people’s relationship with God, and two of my favorites are Abraham (a friend of God) and King David (a man after God’s heart). They are two good examples for us in this day of disappointment and loss.
Two men (and they could be women) with such great favor with God to be called His friend and a man after His heart, helps us to have some insight into our circumstances now. Both these men committed sins, which cost them while on this earth. Both men had great relationship with God but their lives were sprinkled not only with miracles but with wars, loss, anxiety, family betrayal, tests on their faith and trust in God, and disappointment. Yet, they always turned to God for solace and peace in their hearts. Their emotions went deep, but their spirit, their hearts were sold out to God.
Jesus says in John 15:14, 15 that His disciples (His followers) are His friends. To put this in perspective, our free will determines our destiny, and the free will of others will influence our decisions and our destiny. Depending on who is elected President will turn our Nation, and the world. We are each a small part–but an important part to ourselves, our family and friends and most of all to God.
As a Friend, God will give us favor (support) in the market place, with relationships, when we ask and depend on Him. As a Friend, there are many personal things God will do for us—spelled out in Scripture—give us peace, joy, victory over enemies, etc.
At this time it is more important to know as a Friend, what God will not do. He will not violate free will to give us our way. He will not answer prayer that violates His rules and commandments. The whole Kingdom of God, on earth within our hearts is based on faith, and faith filled prayer—that will move mountains.
Relationship with Jesus should not be built on what He can do for us, any more than we would make friends with someone just for what they could do for us. The ironic part of this is that Jesus wants us dependent upon Him and even goes so far as to say, “You can do nothing without Me.” Loving Him comes first, dependence then is easier.
The most important thing now or at any time is to have that friendship, that relationship, that dependence upon God so that we have a place to go, a place to turn, when we cannot control the circumstances. He is our friend, our eternal love, our first and last resort to all things, even when we don’t like or understand the circumstances.
We need Him as our friend when we are having fun, when things are going well, when we are enjoying sports, entertainment or whatever. God enjoys fun, He made us didn’t He? Jesus is the one who said, “I came to give life, and life abundantly.” Faith in God has made this country the most abundant in the world. Evil, greed and sin (things contrary to the goodness of God) are changing all of that.
While fighting a depilating disease, with pain and discomfort I learned a wonderful truth:
I could have peace and joy in my spirit when my body was ‘screaming’. Even though I felt abandon I was not. The Holy Spirit did not come and go as I felt good or bad, just my own emotions and physical being struggled.
I encourage all to fight, stand, and vote for what they believe. Pray—talk to God—pray, pray, pray!!! Most of all continue to build your relationship, your friendship with Jesus…the Holy Spirit….and our Heavenly Father. That is the only thing in this economy, in this world that is constant. He can give us peace in the middle of chaos, and courage in the middle of disaster. Life may be disappointing, but our spiritual life can always be victorious.
by admin | Apr 14, 2008 | Family/Marriage, Jesus Talk, Kingdom Comments, Relationship Not Religion!
Before the Columbine School Shootings I had dropped to my knees in anguish as I heard about each of the earlier school shootings. Crying out to God, repenting of the removal of prayer in schools, as I feel in my heart that opened the door to much of the violence in the our country!
For some reason the school shootings affect me greatly. I hear of other atrocities in the world–war, famine, abuse, slavery–and they are all subjects for my prayers. Like Abby Spangler, the school shootings like Virginia Tech go clear to my very core.
I receive emails asking, If God is so good, why do bad things happen to good people?” I know the answers. God is sovereign, however in His sovereignty He gave man free will and there is evil in the world and men are influenced and driven (in some cases) because of it. Most do not want to believe in the devil or demons. I have to ask (because I believe the Bible), how could you look at the young man that did the shooting at Virginia Tech and not see the demons in him?
Heinous killers usually give themselves away if you listen to their words. Such as, “I saw something doing the killing.”; “Voices told me to do it.”; “I see visions and I know what to do.”! I just cannot believe men or women are evil enough to commit violent acts unless they are influenced or controlled by lying evil spirits. Not because I want to believe that way (we can’t make things true–they either are truth or they are not), but because it is so clear in the Bible–no matter what translation you buy.
One answer for prevention may be stricter gun laws–I will leave that to Abby Spangler and her followers! (God bless them!) Another answer is more education especially in the church of the work of the devil and the power of prayer.
Before Columbine we set up a website, wwwPrayerAgainstViolence.com. On the site there is information and encouragement to pray over your loved ones, especially school children, college students and then over the work place where ever that may be. In God’ s sovereignty He set up the communication of prayer to provide a way for men and women, with free will, to ask (believing) for Divine Intervention. Prayer may be offensive before the fact, instead of defensive after tragedy strikes.
I have personally seen thousands of prayers answered in my life and those of others around me, in the 27 years since I invited Jesus into my heart and trusted Him with my prayers. There are rules in the spirit realm as in the physical realm. Not every prayer is answered the way we might hope–due to our thoughts and actions or the actions of others.
I salute and pray for those who take action such as Abby Spangler. But, with all my heart, I recommend and commend those who pray for protection in advance. Angelic prayer protection and supernatural influence on the part of the Holy Spirit is available to the whole world through agreement with Jesus. For more information visit our website, Prayer Against Violence.
Today I pray as the anniversary of Virginia Tech approaches, that those who were involved, families affected, have been able to forgive, let go of the pain and be healed by the power of God through the Holy Spirit. No one can comprehend the pain for someone else; only God can change the hurt and the heart! Dear God, may that be quick and complete for all the victims!
by admin | Mar 17, 2008 | Family/Marriage, Jesus Talk, Kingdom Comments
My son Greg decided to take his wife, Mary, and the whole family to Maui for a vacation to celebrate Mary’s 50th birthday. They live in southern California and I live in the northern end, and I was delighted when they insist ‘Nana’ come along. Well, I was a little hesitant because I had pictures of snorkeling, beaches and bikinis–not exactly my lifestyle at my age. But it didn’t take too much pressure to convince me this was an opportunity of a life time. I had never been to Hawaii, but always had the desire! See there–it’s never too late!
Other friends decided to come along and there seventeen in the party. Greg rented one big house and friends a small one for four people. We co-ordinated activities and began to truly enjoy the tropical weather.
The first couple of days there was a little dark cloud in my mind. Here comes the truth in all of this. This trip was in November and in the weeks before leaving I had become acquainted with two African Pastors. John from Kenya and Camarade from Rwanda. Both have families, orphanages and a church. As I learned first hand of their needs I had endeavored to help, and still have that strong desire. I had helped African projects before but this was my first time to know someone personally.
As we began to enjoy the beach (I watched the snorkeling) and some leisure time I began to talk to the Lord. “I don’t feel right about spending the money on this trip (although it wasn’t my money or my decision), when I know how much need there is for Camarade, and John. Lord is this right?” And the little black cloud hovered!
The second day the Holy Spirit began to speak to my heart. The Holy Spirit can give you a word, a sentence or more and the revelation comes with it in a bigger picture. “If people did not spend money there would be no economy, there would be no jobs, and there would be no help for any ministry work.” I was immediately aware of how true that is. Our inclination at times is to judge others for what they spend and how much, and can be hard on ourselves. And, it seems especially the rich….big houses, yachts, expensive cars.
Whoa, think a minute with me. All those things have to be built. The components shipped, cars manufactured, trucks, railroads, and ships delivering, importing, exporting and all that goes with it. If the rich stop being rich, there will be no one to feed the poor.
So I realllly began to enjoy the trip. My son is far from rich except in faith and love for others. His company produces a browser to protect children from the Internet, because of his love for children. Tuki.com or CEN.com will take you for a visit. He works long hours and to see him relaxing and enjoying so much time with family was wonderful.
This trip was to celebrate my daughter-in-law’s 50th birthday! Well, check out the gallery of pictures I have posted, she is beautiful and doesn’t seem to age. She has been a great Mom and a tremendous partner to my son. They have been through great losses, spiritual battles, and changes in their lives in business and residence to provide for their family. It was a wise decision to enjoy family and vacation when the opportunity was available.
Greg was also a speaker at an investment conference in Honolulu. Greg, Mary, Candace and I flew to Honolulu on Saturday. The girls shopped, Greg and I went to the meeting. I met new friends and some delightful Christians with whom we spent the night at their home. Their home on the ocean was a picture post card and the dinner they provided was yummy!
During the trip I had opportunity to minister making my trip complete–how could I go any where and not share Jesus with someone? I’m ole’ hat to my family, I needed fresh ground in which to plant. And, last but not least, definitely not least I went hang gliding over Maui! The thrill of a lifetime, 3500 feet in air, on a seat back of an instructor with just two wings and a small engine. Afraid to snorkel in 10-15 feet of water, but absolutely goofey about flying miles in the air….go figure!
I hope Mary enjoyed her birthday party as much as I did, and the lesson I had forgotten about appreciating our commercial economy and what it has done for the world. God bless America! Let’s fight for rights we have enjoyed and continue to bless others with our abundance!
P S There are pictures from our trip, posted on the Gallery, click top of page.
by admin | Feb 13, 2008 | Family/Marriage
I watched a delightful Pastor on TBN a few nights ago, and still laugh as I remember his presentation. He was talking about husbands and wives and the difference in men and women.
The thing that stood out in my mind so much was his view on getting men to do things for their wives. He said that women must ask their husbands several times to get them to even hear the request let alone agree and move on it. He laughed and said, we just don’t hear you the first time and he would laugh and chuckle. He said women always say, “Well I shouldn’t have to tell him more than once.” and I remember how many times I used to think that. He wasn’t suggesting women nag their husbands but let them know the need.
I want to take that a little further. My mother used to tell me to ‘train’ my husband not complain about him. When we married he never remembered a holiday or any special occasion and I would be hurt and in tears. My mother explained that we lose nothing in letting men know what we need. Why should they be expected to understand or anticipate our needs–men do not think like women. So I too her advice and would let my husband know (lovingly) two weeks before a birthday or holiday, one week and a few days in advance, that it was coming and he should take an ‘action’. You know, she was so right because he really appreciated my ‘help’ and was very good at following through.
Through the the years, the gifts and cards just got better and better. We are talking here of a great guy, good humor and personality and almost void of romance. Our marriage improved as I changed, and he actually became more romantic in later years.
Since then I have learned that men have a ‘build in’ (unless it was damaged in their youth) need to rescue and smart women take advantage of that God given response in men to the needs of others, especially their wives and children. Ladies, if we can do everything ourselves, we get to do everything our selves. On the other hand if we honor and respect our husbands and let them know we have a need (to open a jar, fix the broken faucet, fill the car with gas, take our side in a family situation) they will come to the rescue. It is all in how we ‘think’ about the situation, the way we handle it and the honor we show them.
Nagging is always caustic and full of sarcasm and or bitterness. In respecting that guy we chose to live with we may just need to help him feel needed, not harassed. My husband is now with the Lord. I have a delightful picture of him, smiling mischievously, on the wall above my computer; just looking at it makes me smile and how I would like to talk him into something now, making him think it is his idea, all for my good. I have to be content knowing he is having a ball in heaven. So I will just have to rescue my self for awhile!
I pray many will take to heart the privilege of enjoying the difference in men and women, and change their strategy as a partner to honor and respect that special man or woman in their life!
by admin | Feb 6, 2008 | Family/Marriage
A couple of nights ago I watched a movie that I had previously seen and enjoyed. It is called Shall We Dance, starring Richard Gere, Jennifer Lopez and Susan Sarandon. I really enjoy the movie-and could easily watch it again, if only for the dancing. However, there is one scene that made a great impression on me.
Susan Sarandon is meeting with a private detective whom she hired to follow her husband, Richard Gere. They have a discussion about why people get married. Susan says something to the effect, “People get married so they have a witness to their life. Some one who knows them and all they do, that makes life worthwhile.” I may not have quoted it perfectly but you get the message.
Well, I certainly got the message. That is the reason I feel so lonely at times. I think that is why others who live alone for any reason feel lonely as they have no one to witness to their lives. Some one who makes life worth while. Since I have a personal relationship with Jesus I know He and the Holy Spirit, and my Heavenly Father are always with me and witness my life. But, it is not the same.
I am blessed with family and friends, however, they have their own lives and agenda. My friends have similar emotions and complain that they don’t hear from their family often enough, or see them as much as they would like.
I work at home so for many days I may not see anyone accept a grocery store clerk or someone at the post office. Some people may enjoy living alone. In fact a quote in the newspaper recently, was “Solitude is the salt of person-hood. It brings out the authentic flavor of every experience.” I personally enjoy quiet time with the Lord, times to read, and do whatever I want. But I still do not like eating alone, having no one to tell my opinions on evening TV, or how beautiful the sunset is, or the rain on the pine tree in my yard. Oh yes, I can pick up the phone and call a friend, and believe me I do. It is still not the same.
It dawned on me that no one knows what I do, or how I am from minute to minute or even day to day. I am thankful for this understanding because now I don’t have to reprimand myself for ‘not being thankful for all that I have.’
Then something wonderful happened. I cleaned out a drawer looking for a greeting card for a special occasion. I took a minute to pull out some old cards from family and friends, that I have saved for years. The more I read the more I wanted to read.
It was such fun, and I thought about what I learned about being lonely. And, I changed my thinking as I realized I am not alone. I have wonderful memories, and family and friends to call on when I truly need them. I plan to add even more memories to savour and remember when a little demon tells me I am lonely.
We all know we have people in our lives who love us. They aren’t short of love, they are short on time! And I was just short on perspective; I am so thankful for what I have learned!
