Posts

Christian Characteristics: Humility

Image
The person  who bears  and suffers evils  with meekness  and silence,  is the sum  of a Christian man. --John Wesley *** Notable Quote: 1 Peter 5:6 (KJV) Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

Sing a Song

Image
Psalm 66:1-2 (KJV) Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands: Sing forth the honour of his name: make his praise glorious. I was asked recently if I know the words to every Christmas carol ever written. Probably not...but I do know a lot of them. Singing has always been a big part of my life. One of my earliest memories is standing behind the piano bench as my mother played Christmas carols. Her love of music was passed down to me and I developed it into a lifelong passion. Whether I'm performing in a huge production or just humming to myself, I surround myself with music. It's as natural as breathing. God placed this passion in my soul. It feeds me. I am grateful that He gave me this gift. Others have gifts of leadership, teaching, preaching, and a million other things. Isn't it just like our Heavenly Father to bless us with a talent that gives us such joy? *** Notable Quote: " A musician is not recommended for playing long, but for playing well; it...

This Christmas

Image
How Many Kings , a Christmas carol by Marc Martel and Jason Germain, of Downhere Follow the star to a place unexpected Would you believe, after all we've projected, A child in a manger? Lowly and small, the weakest of all Unlikeliest hero, wrapped in his mother's shawl Just a child Is this who we've waited for? 'cause How many kings step down from their thrones? How many lords have abandoned their homes? How many greats have become the least for me? And how many gods have poured out their hearts To romance a world that is torn all apart How many fathers gave up their sons for me? Bringing our gifts for the newborn Savior All that we have, whether costly or meek Because we believe. Gold for his honor, and frankincense for his pleasure And myrrh for the cross he will suffer Do you believe? Is this who we've waited for? All for me All for you (This is my new favorite modern Christmas carol.)

It's Not You...It's Him

Image
Proverbs 18:24 (KJV) A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. I have been on this planet for nearly 55 years, and I still haven't figured out this relationship thing. Being close to my husband, daughters, family, friends and church family is vital, but I don't always get it right...or even nearly right. Have you ever felt like there was a love deficit in your life? For me, I've noticed that is when I've been phoning in my prayer and devotion time. There have been times when I have not been a good friend, or when my big mouth should have stayed shut. As long as my relationship with Christ is solid and intimate, it seems that my human relationships are better, too. When you're willing to invest the time in truly getting to know Someone, the dividends are peace, contentment and joy. Human relationships don't always go perfectly, nor do they last forever. If I look to God for His perfe...

The Danger of Complacency

Image
The alarm went off on Sunday morning. As I cracked my eyes open, there was no dawn--only dark, cold, wet. And the wind! It rattled the windows and made the most nimble trees creak. I hit the snooze button once, twice, three times before exiting bed. Padding around the kitchen in my robe and slippers, I dawdled over feeding the cats and making coffee. Later, I delayed taking a shower, knowing the cold tile awaited. It was plain--I didn't want to leave the warmth and comfort of my home. I did make it to church, and as we listened to the pastor deliver the sermon, I whispered to The Hubster, "I'm so glad I'm here." As winter deepens, most of us will spend more time indoors, away from the cold. When life, and people, are hard, it seems easier to stay safe at home. Shutting ourselves away from the world allows us to "feel" safer. But are we, really? God did not place us in this world to be comfortable. We are to confront the culture, not isolate o...

Look Up!

Image
Rolling hills of Missouri by Debbie Wray Psalm 121:1-2 (KJV)   I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. Despair is all around us. Hopeless feelings from the election, the economic situation and approaching holidays build up in our hearts and bring us down. This year has been a tough one. When your heart hurts and your soul is sad and your body is exhausted--look up. God is ready and willing to provide His hope and His help. The Creator of the universe is waiting for a word from you. He wants to shelter and protect you. Let Him do what He does best. *** Notable Quote: "O soul, are you weary and troubled? No light in the darkness you see? There's light for a look at the Savior, And life more abundant and free! Turn your eyes upon Jesus, Look full in His wonderful face, And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, In the light of His glory and grace."--Helen ...

When Your Hut is on Fire

Image
I attended a United Methodist Women's meeting with my mom last year. She was leading the group that night, and shared the following story: "The only survivor of a shipwreck was washed up on a small, uninhabited island. He prayed feverishly for God to rescue him. Every day, he scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming. Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect himself from the elements, and to store his few possessions. One day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, with smoke rolling up to the sky. He felt the worst had happened, and everything was lost. He was stunned with disbelief, grief and anger. He cried out, 'God! How could you do this to me?' Early the next day, he was awakened by the sound of a ship approaching the island. It had come to rescue him! 'How did you know I was here?,' asked the weary man of his rescuers. 'We saw your smoke si...