Glad you're 'blue' and I found you(or your blog). How are things with you and your family....it is exciting times we live in! I am excited to meet each and everyone here face to face at "heaven's cafe".
Grace, Did your friend in Tacoma ever find a Church she liked? It kinda sounded like she may be more comfortable in a smaller Church, as she thought CFAN was unfriendly. But, in a larger Church, you have to get involved, maybe moreso than a smaller one. Personally, I've always enjoyed attending CFAN, and have found it true to the Word of God, and the Worship Service is wonderful, too :) I left a message for you, on Joel's blog, about Bill Cloud. As I mentioned, he is excellent! And with his understanding of Hebrew, he digs out real nuggets of truth, in the scriptures. God bless, and have a wonderful week, too!
My friend has not really looked yet. She is getting married this weekend and has been very busy with the wedding. When all of that is done I will encourage her to pursue it more.
I did suggest that she try a Calvary Chapel. There is one in Fife and she said that is about 20 mins from her.
Thank you for all your help. She just needs to jump in. God has done amazing things in her life and I have seen her grow spiritually over the last few months.
The teachings that I have gone to at Athey Creek are based on Bill Cloud and also Wild Branch ministries teachings.
I am a bit of a skeptic and so much of this is new to me that I just want to check it out. I am blown away by the depth of God's word. I do wonder if some of it is a bit speculative though.
Grace, I would agree, that some of the teaching is speculation :) Most of these teachings, do get into a certain amount of that. But, you need to keep in the Word, and 'glean' from what they teach, in my opinion :)
I've never heard of the other Ministry, though. However, Bill Cloud really does know his Hebrew, and brings out some really interesting slants on scriptures, from Hebrew perspectives. I must admit, I enjoy that part, a lot!
God's best to you, and have a great week, in the Lord :)
Grace, I received an Invitation to a Conference, in Portland, Oregon, for May, (7-9, and 10-12) If you are interested, the info. is at:
www.cbcconference.com
And it's being put on by, City Bible Church.
I don't know if you'd be interested, because it appears to be Charsmatic, and I'm finding out that most Bloggers on Joel's Blog, are Non-Charsmatics :) So, just so you know.
I am familiar with City Bible Church. I did not recognize the people who were speaking at the conference. Do you know what the emphasis of it is? I did not see a cost, do you kno what it is?
I have a friend who is definately a Charismatic that would probably love to go. I do not know if I would be able to attend because that next week is "birthday season" in our household! It would depend on the cost etc.
If you go and even if I can't, I would love to meet you for coffee or dinner while you are here! (A little cafe preview!!)
As far as Charismatic...I really do have not decided, if that is possible....How do you define a Charismatic? I got saved at 16 and went to a full gospel, pentecostal church. I have attended several Calvary Chapel churches and seen some of the more public gifts of the spirit in operation.
I am cautious about some of the prophetic/apostolic movements that I see today. (I do not know if that is what you mean by charismatic.) However, some of the more conservative churches like Baptist (which I attend right now) just seem to be so apathetic.
Thank you so much for your input about Bill Cloud. This is very interesting stuff.
Much love to you Marge, and may God richly bless you too! (I still listen to Vernon McGee!)
Thank you for your prayers. If you have time I usually leave a longer blog on Child's blog to keep everyone abreast on Lisa.
I feel the same about you, too. You are such an encouragement to me and I'm sure others!:) I hope all is going well with you and your family....Enjoy all of those birthdays...they fly so fast. My oldest is in college and I have one more heading there in Sept.
Grace, We share similiar beliefs then :) I hestitate to ever say, I'm Pentecostal, because I'm really not. I guess Word of Faith, (Full Gospel) comes to mind, as a better deffinition of Charsmatic. The difference between a Charsmatic/Penecostal is that Charsmatics usually have come out of Denominations. I was an Evangelical Presbyterian, before I received the infilling of the Holy Spirit, which is, basically, praying in tongues, and also confessing the Word of God over your circumstances. I too, am super uncomfortable about the extremes. As someone once said, the brighter the light, the bigger the bugs that are drawn to it, lol. And I've seen some "Crazy matics," before, too :) That's one reason I suggested the three Churches in the Tacoma area for your friend, as although they do believe in the Holy Spirit, there has never, (to my knowledge) been, even one incident of a message in tongues, during Worship. Not that I don't believe in it? It's just that things can get off balanced, in a hurry. And I feel more comfortable knowing we aren't going there, etc. At any rate, I probably haven't answered your question very well, so if you have any questions, let me know, okay?
It would be fun to meet, but I doubt I'll be able to attend the Conference. My husband is Disabled, (very bad knees, and other health problems) so it's hard to get away, get away.
Let's see, according to all the info. this used to be known as the N.W. Breakthrough Conference. And it's designed to build up Leaders. Hmmmm. I have no idea why they sent it to me, because I'm not a Leader. But anyone can attend. And it appears to be about $100.00 for one person, and $129.00 for a couple, too. And it looks as though Richard and Lindsay Roberts are going to be there, too. (Oral Roberts son) Tommy Barnett, and his son, from the Pheonix area, and his son, from LA's, Dream Center. It does sound interesting, but as I mentioned, I'll probably not get to go to it.
I love you, and thank you for your love, interest, and concern, too. It's great to be included in the family of God, isn't it?
Thanks for all of the info on the conference, and help for my friend finding a church.
I will not be going to the conference either. Too much going on that time of year for me.
I did not realize that your husband was disabled. It is a huge responsibility to care for someone and be the big breadwinner too. Bless you in that!
This is the 3rd week for the Prophecy update at Athey Creek. The teaching has been based on the Bill Cloud books combined with some other material. He also uses teaching from Wild Branch ministries.
I have a commitment today so I won't be able to go to this one, but I will DEFINATELY be getting the CD's with the power point presentation.
I feel like the atmosphere in Joel's Blog has changed so much. There were some really negative and deceptive posts and I think that really discouraged some people from being as open as they had been.
Truthfully, I find myself wanting to spend too much time on the internet reading what is good stuff, but really neglecting some important things in my life. God has been whispering in my ear about it and I am working on it.
Hope you are having fun with the puppies! Your son sounds like a kick.
Grace, NINE puppies were botn this morning! I posted on, child of the King's Blog, for the news :)
Yes, Joel's Blog comments have changed........because of the demands, in my opinion, to cut the "being open remarks, and stick to the Topic matter, etc." I can say, that I have felt less open there, because of it, at least :( BUT, another door was opened up, with child of the King's Blog, and others, too. (IF I can EVER figure out how to allow comments on my Blog, lol) But, that was the reasoning behind it, I believe. And God took care of our fellowship, which I agree, with child of the King, is why we enjoy it there. Plus that, I'm NOT a news buff, for the most part, at all! But, it's fun to learn, and fellowship with like minded Believers, isn't it?
Ah yes, the Lord opened that subject up for me, a few years ago. Basically, what is a GOOD thing, OR a God thing :) In my opinion, a little research, is good, but the fellowship is better :) Working Retail, I just can't make all the evening Church meetings, and such. But, I do know, (if it helps you sort things out, that is :) that God encourages fellowship among the Beloved :) THAT IS a God thing :)
I'm not the breadwinner. Mike's knees were torn up, being a Shipyard worker for years. So, he has one Federal Disability, and now S.S. Disability. I bring in about a fourth of our Income, is all, and it helps. Otherwise I wouldn't be able to be cutting my hours back, and enjoying my move into Nutrition. Which starts tomorrow! YES!
I love you, and be sure to allow the Lord to help you decide, what are good things, and God things :) He knows all about us, and our needs. God bless you, and yours!
I gotta run, as I work tonight......if I don't fall asleep first, ha, ha! (some Hummingbird, huh? HA!)
Hope all is well with you Grace. You have been on my mind. Haven't seen your name on the sites for a bit. Has anyone told you that they love you today? I love you, sister! Check in so we know you are o.k.
You are such a sweet person. I think of you often during my days too.
Actually, I have been reading the blogs, just not posting. I am really struggling with how much time I end up spending on the computer.
My job is very flexible but I do have integrity to maintain. I am spending time on the computer when I should be working! This issue has been such a difficult battle for me.
You are such a wonderful friend to Lisa. God has put you there for just this reason. Did she know the Lord when you two met? How is she doing? How is your son doing with his asthma?
Yeah, I would definately not say that I am a true pentacostal. I do find the Baptist church that we are going to a little too heavy on the psychology and feel good stuff though. I do (and have since I was a teenager) spoken in tongues on occasion but it is not a regular thing for me. It seems like God just pours it out on me when I need to pray intensely.
We had a dear friend, a teenage boy, die of bone cancer last summer. He was who God used to bring me back to Him after 14 years of walking the other way. The burden that I felt praying for him was so overwhelming at times and it seems like God would just step in literally with utterances I could not.
I love the teachings at Athey Creek. They are a Calvary Chapel. I have been to numerous CC's and they are all a little different.
There are so many knowledgable people on Joel's site that I am content to read and ask a question or two if need be. I cannot believe the things that we see happening and how much I have learned about what is going on in the world.
Thank you so much for your special encouragement! I so need to see God in that balance that He is love and not just a big hammer. I really need some healing in this area.
Love your sense of humor! Ya always get a smile outta me!
Grace, Thanks for the comment on my blog. It's such a neat thing to be able to express what the Lord is putting on my heart. I'm not sure if my parents got to attend all the prophecy updates, they may try to catch them online. Do you know if they're going to post them? The last series they held and posted them all at the same time. Don't you just love Athey Creek? My husband and I joke about driving the 3 hours each way to go to church there. Our fellowship is great too, but we love Pastor Brett. We're going to his church in April while we're in Portland for my daughters birthday.
Glad all is well. It's funny how God uses those things in our lives to get our attention and draw us to Him sometimes in a way we've never experienced before.
I would say that Lisa was a believer before I met her but I'm not so sure that she had 'assurance' until after our friendship. For that I am thankful. I posted on Joels about her condition to ask for prayer...she is not good.
I will blog later at Childs....I hope you have a computer at home. Maybe then you can steal alittle time so you don't have to battle that feeling at work.(I understand....God convicts us and we have to act)
Grace and Ladies, My new job is great! I love being out of working Grocery. As you mentioned, it is much easier work, in Nutrition :)
Sad to say, the little runt puppy died this morning :( We did everything we could, and we were in hopes all would be alright, and that there were no internal injuries, etc. However, the Vet looked at the little guy this morning, and did everything he could, with no success. But, the Momma, and 8 other puppies are doing fine.
No, I'm not a practicing Pentecostal, I must admit. I pray in the Holy Spirit, and it has been a great advantage to me, and my growth in the Faith. Being rather Introverted, it just isn't my style, I suppose :) But, I don't deny the gifts of the Holy Spirit, either. As you mentioned, we keep growing in Faith, and I haven't arrived to that level, I'd have to say.....yet :)
God bless you all, and continue to remember that the joy of the Lord is your strength.
Grace, I had to tell you a little something about the Champion Center, in Tacoma. Forget about telling your friend about going to that Church, if she wants to study any prophecy. (it's fine in every other way, though :) As I was getting dressed this last Sunday, I had Kevin Gerald on T.V., and he was making fun of the, Left Behind books. He said, why didn't they call them, Caught Away? And that people were making too many 'weird and wild' comments, and such about the future, and it was making Christians look like a bunch of 'flakes.' He also went on to call 'us,' doom and gloomers :( I thought at the time, well, he must be refering to me, but I'm not all about doom and gloom.......quite the opposite. Then he said, not to e-mail him, because he didn't care about reading them, LOL. Okay, fine. It's been a couple of years since I've been to his Church, and that was only to check it out for my grandchildren....which went once, and that was it. Needless to say, if anyone is interested in end times, this is not the Church to attend. However, he did say, he believed Jesus was coming back, but he disliked the 'negitive' comments, etc., etc. I dunno. I'll continue to watch him on T.V., on Sunday morning, but I doubt I'd recommend anyone attend, that wants to get some teaching about end times. Because it ain't going to be happening from that pulpit :) I really didn't get his reasoning behind it, as he also said, that he was a second generation Minister, and if he wanted to make a lot of money, all he'd have to do is write a book about end times, etc. Of course, he brought up 1988, and 2000. Always a favorite of the ones that slam studying prophecy. Oh well, his loss, huh? LOL. I just thought I'd pass that along, in case, your friend is still on her honeymoon, and hasn't gotten around to finding a good Church home :)
Grace -- wanted to thank you for all the support you have offered thru Joel's sight!! You are so kind and have such a sweet heart!!! Joel's posted quite a few links today (the 20th) and it seems that the energy has gone up another notch !!!Thanks again and have a wonderful day today !!! love -- jen
grace -- you are such a dear !! I just saw your post at my site. Thank you for your concern! I am fine !! Really !! I think all that has been going on with Firgiven Daughter has made me reflective... He is opening my heart and rewriting my past from a different perspective. I saw it from anger and rebellion as a teen. Now as I witness thru Sue's updates, I can see the sweetness of being there for my mom as she passed, the last breath, the tear that fell because I really believe she wanted to stay but that tear was for joy also that she saw where she was going . She's waiting for me!!! I still miss both my parents so much... so many daily questions that I fumble thru and then pray that God knows how inept I am and is picking up my slack. I am really trying to wait and hear His response to my prayers. I keep getting... 'Be still".It is comforting because I know He is working out the details in His plan. Yet, I've never been one to sit idley by, even if it meant that I'd chose the wrong action.So I'm trying to refrain from speaking too much at Joel's and here at home to my family and friends unless I feel really pressed or have thought it through completely. I don't want to speak just to add my 2 cents anymore... it has gotten me into too much trouble before. Time for this chick to grow up a little bit !! And that makes me HAPPY because I know I will have Him leading me and all of you and the others supporting me. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers... and I love your real name( saw it at the post to Sue). Reminded me of my mom...Paulette. I love the tenderness imparted by names that end with "ette". Have a wonderful day and know that I would give you a big 'ol hug if I were there !!love --- jen
Grace -- I just had a thought!!! My husband is putting some of the McLean Bible Church sermons on audio CD's for me to listen to during the day ( so I can still get my 'chores' done). That might work for you on your travels too !! I completely understand about wanting to be on this crazy box and checking in with everyone here and the world stuff!!! But my house still needs to be kept together and you still have a job...so we'll have to find a way to fit it all in !!! Have a blessed and safe day on the route and know that you have many friends/family here who look forward to the next time you check in !!! love ya' --- jen
Grace, After reading Mommyjen's comments, maybe adding my two bits worth, is just that, LOL. There IS a fine line between 'ministry,' and trying to 'meddle,' as I've come to find out, over the course of the years, LOL
After reading your comments on Joel's blog, I just wanted to remind you, that according to the Bible, fear is a spirit. So, being a spirit, you can take authority over that spirit, (fear) in the name of Jesus, and command it to leave your life.
Most Introverts deal with that spirit, (fear) while Extroverts deal with anger, for the most part. Of course this is, for the most part, speaking in general. I believe a book that both you and Mommyjen might enjoy, is the Temperment book, by Dr. Tim LaHaye. It's been around for a long time, and it's been quite benefical in helping me, understand myself, and thus understanding other people :) It's only a general rule of thumb, as I mentioned, and nothing to go off the 'deep end,' about, either, LOL. (as some have done :(
Also, praying in tongues is thee best benefit, that I've found to overcoming fear, and life, and it's circumstances. Since I've received the infilling of the Holy Spirit, it's made me a stronger Christian, and given me much Godly insight........when I am obedient, and walk in the Light, as He is in the Light. It's an easy thing to get side tracked though, and that's the truth!
God bless you, and have a wonderful day in the Lord, too :)
grace --- I thought about what you said as far as me appearing to be 'discouraged'. So I set out to "shine" on my errands yesterday and discovered I haven't been smiling or laughing much. So I gave several people hugs, smiled at everyone and bought a great little sign to hang over my kitchen sink.When you come in my house there is a sign in the foyer that reads...Today is a gift from God remember to thank Him. Now that always makes me smile! So over my sink I put this one up .... Out of my mind, Back in five minutes. I laugh out loud EVERY time I walk thru the kitchen!!! That's what I needed and oh how true !!!Have a wonderful day today and HAPPY FRIDAY !!! love ya' ---- jen
HI Grace, Thanks for the warm welcome you posted on my blog. My Mom writes these poems almost as easy as we breathe! I have to tell you, my Dad is sort of a "quit preaching to me" kinda man too. And she tries to get him to "GET IT" too. Butttt..., so she can really realate to you I'm sure. I am blessed to have a great man in that area!! Please keep in touch and drop in anytime...I will be posting more of her work here and there. Have a God Day Love Judy
Grace -- I have looked for you to post lately and haven't seen anything or else I missed them. I hope you are well and enjoying staying in the word!!! Joel's got another new post up !!! May God bless you today! You'll be in my prayers!! love -- jen
Grace --- I do hope you are just too busy to post...I am praying for you and all that you are doing right now. Stay strong and know that you are loved !!!! hugs-- jen
I have been pretty busy, but to be honest, I have been somewhat discouraged. I have been battling a problem in my life and just cannot get through it. I will be so glad when we are with the Lord and there is no more temptation and sin!
I have a prayer request. I have an uncle who is dying. I may have mentioned it on Joel's blog. I was not planning on visiting him so soon, but talked with him on the phone yesterday and he sounds really bad.
I will be going tomorrow. Please pray for him. My dad says that my uncle (his name is Jerry) is an athiest.
I pray that God will open the door to share Christ and make his heart receptive to the gospel.
This is a huge step for me. I need your prayers to "speak boldly as I ought".
Watched Joel on Glenn Beck lastnight. It was great!
Grace --- You have been in my thoughts and prayers. I do pray that you will have the words given to you by the Holy Spirit and that your presence will shine so brightly that Jerry will just have to ask you what you know!!!My Psalm that I read the other day said : " be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart".You are doing what is right... be of good courage!!!! Not perfect, just good courage!! He will be there with you!! Love to you and keep us all updated!!!! Hugs--- jen
I thought of something that I read and really liked about witnessing to others. A way to describe why there is a God in basic words.Here goes... When you see a house , do you suppose that it just popped into place from nowhere? No, you know there had to be a builder.The same theory can be applied to whatever the person you are talking to can relate to easily. You didn't see the builder of the home but you KNOW that there was one. The same with our world and God.I liked it. It suits my simple mind and can be a great starting point for conversations from there. I am praying that Jerry is open and kind to you!!! Hugs-- jen
OK, Grace .... where are you???I know whatever is happening is in His control but my human heart is concerned about you and praying like crazy that you are alright!! Please check in somewhere so we know how it went with Jerry and how the battle against the 'sin' thing is going!! We are hear for you sister!!! Be strong !! The psalm I read recently said "stand in awe and do not sin". You can do it !!! Hugs to you -- jen
Thank you so much for keeping me in prayer. I so appreciate you showing such concern about my not posting! You are precious to my heart. I hope that you did not worry.
This week has been pretty crazy with work. It is our quarterly meeting time. My boss was here from Seattle and we had a big meeting with customers coming in from out of town. It ends up consuming all of my energy.
Be forewarned, this is a bit long....
Actually, the visit with my Uncle Jerry went really well. I do think it was just what God wanted...with more to come.
I have not seen him in about 10 years. Because of that the visit could have been really awkward.
We were somewhat close when I was a kid and he did alot of kind things for me.
I prayed alot about how I was to handle it. I layed it out on the altar that I was petrified, but willing to be made willing if God would open the door.
I asked the Lord for some very explicit answers. I knew that this was a time that I could NOT rely on my own strength, ideas, preconceptions or abilities!!!
On the way home friday, I turned down the radio in my car and just asked God to show me. This may sound craxy, but I tell ya, I felt like the Lord said, "Bring pictures."
I am a real skeptic, but I thought, what would it hurt. I have a few pics of my grandma and some of me when I was little when he and I were close.
I also just felt like I needed to thank him for the good he did for the seemingly insignificant, and very neglected little girl that I was.
I called my dad at 11:00 friday night (he had visited him that afternoon) to see how it went. My dad said that the chit chat was nice, but that all Jerry seemed to want to do was "to look at pictures". I felt like God just wanted to confirm to me that He heard me and I heard Him!
We had a great visit! The pictures really broke the ice and just kind of reconnected us to a time when we were closer.
At one time, he was a very powerful business man and has always been very well off financially because of his electronics companies. He feels like his step children have really tried to take advantage of him and "rob" him because of his wealth.(I did not realize that part until the visit.)
He was telling me that in the prime of his business career he sat on the board of governors and was on the economic steering committee that made Oregon what it is today. That committee was instrumental in bringing in Intel and Hewlett Packard into the state.
Now, I realize that he cannot take any of these accomplishments with him and that it does him no eternal good. It was a way for me to see what his security is and a door for God to show love to him.
I told him..."You have been a very accomplished person, but I want you to know that you made a great impact on my life when I needed to know that someone cared." Then I listed several specific things that I remember him doing, like playing a card game with me when I was 5 when he could have been hanging with the adults....to the fact that he took care of my precious grandmother and gave her a very comfortable life until she died.
Here is the amazing thing. That big powerful man sat there and cried like a baby! (His wife and I did also!!)
The whole visit was amazing. I told him that there are alot of people praying for him. God's love was so evident that you could almost touch it. Did I witness to him? Give him bible verses? No. The door did not open.
I felt like if I were to start spouting bible verses that they would have dropped like a lead balloon. His wife (who I had never met...he was widowed about 9 years ago) never left his side and seemed very protective of him. She even finished his sentences for him!
I did mention several times that I am planning to come visit him again really soon and that I would keep in touch by phone.
I was a bit confused when I left, but had peace. I could not see how the door opened to share directly.
I called my dear friend who has been praying with me about him. After we talked I felt like maybe that is exactly what God wanted me to do.
All his life, his kids have only been interested in his money. They have taken advantage of him and not been loyal at all. I did not want him to think that I have any interest in his material goods. I wanted the visit to be without strings attached.
I think that this visit was to create a bond of love and trust and God will open the door soon. I know that I am to continue to pursue this!
I sooooo covet your prayers for him and his eternal salvation. God knows what is in his heart and how and when to get through to him.
Thank you for remembering the "sin thing". God is an amazing Father. He answered so much prayer about this problem over that last few days that I am amazed.
My sin is that I work very independently for a marketing/food broker. The climate in my job is that nobody really cares about what kind of job that they do or if they even do it. My boss especially!!
By the world's standards, it would look like I have more enthusiasm than anyone in my work unit. I know though, that some days I do not leave for work until 11 AM and that I do not accomplish what I am supposed to. I know that I would be embarrassed if other people saw what I did. So what about what God sees?
This job entails such a feat of self discipline that I am overwhelmed.
So, I feel like I have to be somewhat of a Daniel in this work arena. I have not been very successful at this. Just be the employee that God would have me be. Not compared to what my coworkers are doing, or only to the low standard that my boss sets because she does not do her job either.
(I know that this is long....)So...My boss told me she would be coming down from Seattle and wanted to work with me on Tuesday. She called me in the morning asked me to meet her for breakfast so we could talk.
She just poured out her heart about how she is so sick of what a lousy job that she has been doing and knows that all of us are hating our jobs and needed to be inspired to do a better one. She had some great ideas to help motivate us.
I have felt for awhile that I was not to hide my stumbling so I told her about the leaving at 11AM and she just said that is what everybody does too...which makes it even more diffficult for me, but the point is that I told her!
I have prayed that God would change my heart about the job and help me to do what He wants. God answers soooooo big sometimes and answers in ways that we would never expect. I have worked for this lady for almost four years and never thought that I would see this.
We talked again yesterday after the meeting and feel like we bonded like never before. She knew that I was committed to doing what is right.
Again, God just cementing relationships in preparation to share the gospel.
I appreciate your "listening" ear and concern. I am glad to say that God is at work, mightily!
Bless you sister!
Grace (Annette)
PS: I have prayed and will continue to pray about your Easter! I really commit to doing that between now and Easter evening.
Here is another amazing answer to prayer. My brother in law is coming to church with us on Sunday.
And....my daughter called lastnight to say that her fiance asked her if he could go to church with us!!!!! We have been agreeing in prayer for him about this with anyone who would pray with us for such a long time. God is at work!!!
I am so glad I popped in over here. I must confess that I too was wondering how it went with Uncle Jerry....I am so happy for you. I agree with you, sometimes what WE think needs to be said or done is not what God wants us to do. So you listened to what He said and forged a relationship there (no strings). I believe God honors our prayers there. I've had some opportunities at the hospital with Lisa's family and felt exactly the same promptings. By showing Christ's love first without those lead balloons, consistently, we are sowing seeds for the gospel to make so much sense to them after they have seen our love in action.
Your spirit shines, Grace, and I so look forward to seeing you face to face in heaven dear lady!
Oh Grace !! How wonderful it all worked out !! Tears of happiness came rolling down as I read your account of the lasy week and I'm so thrilled for all the blessings God is showering on you right now!!! Those heart blessings ARE overwhelming aren't they?! I also know EXACTLY what you mean about being the sceptic. Not that I don't KNOW that God can do ANYTHING, just wonder why He'd want to talk to me ?! I'm still learning though!! Your uncle is so lucky to have you in his life!! My grandfather sounds very similar... accmulating wealth and recognition and now absorbed in hoe to dole it out... WHO CARES ???? You can't take it with you and all I want is to keep my fond memories and have a chance for my kids to make some with him too. He is starting to see that also... but it is a slow process. It's not the fame and fortune, it is truly the love we were able to show and the impression that it left... it's right there in the Bible... so although you didn't use any verbal scriptures , you were living the top 2 commandments that Jesus asked us to follow !!! Way to go girl !!! I'll check in with you again... we are not going to church for Sunday service and I am sad.However, I plan to really read intently at sunrise and really listen for Him. The company is looking forward to a big breakfast and the 'easter bunny'.... I just happen to have a few kid bibles to throw into those baskets :) !!! It will be fun no matter what happens because I just have to love them in an attempt to show them how much I've been loved by Him!!! hugs to you -- jen
Thanks for your encouraging reply!! God's timing is perfect. All the people I prayed for to go to church with us last year did not come...but guess what? They are coming with us tomorrow!!
Father, in Jesus name I pray fot Jen and her family that You would pour out Your spirit of love and grace on each one of them. I ask that Jen would hear Your voice and abide in Your love.
Jen, I know that God will open doors for you tomorrow. He works in ways that we cannot possibly think of. Just show them His love.
Let me know how things go. God will get you to church another time. He has a perfect plan!
Grace -- thank you for the prayers... they are what got me through Sunday!! I was so excited to start the day, I read intently and was filled with joy and anticipation of all 7 kids opening easter baskets together. Well, I fell under attack. The company stayed downstairs for an extra 2 hours and I assumed that their babies had a rough night and all were tired. So I encouraged my 4 to be extra quiet and help me to get the house picked up for a special morning... and we would wait to do baskets. I even delayed getting breakfast going for concern of disturbing them as I went down the stairs to get things from the freezer to thaw. Well, when they finally came up...their kids announced that they had already opened their baskets and went into "all they had gotten".I was devastated.I know it was nothing important but I was heart broken that all the effort that I had invested this week leading up to this special day to be a 'family' had just been ruined.I held back the tears but my shock and disappointment were inescapable despite the smile I forced.The old me would have raged at their unkindness and selfishness....the new me hugged the wife and as I did I called her a "brat" and told her I loved her anyway. I explained how let down I felt and that my 4 had been waiting patiently to do this with them. It fell on deaf ears. She became defensive and after breakfast went and packed them all up to leave a full day early. I prayed and prayed ... I apologized for my reaction and said that I shouldn't have had such great expectations that they would want to be a family with ours.I repeated that I was wrong in my words and hoped that the rest of the visit would not be affected by my mess up.They left anyway. I just wanted to have that extended family feeling with them... for me and for my kids since we don't have anyone to be with. I know all is in Christ but my heart ached. I kept reminding myself of what Jesus endured for me and that this was nothing in comparison. I turned on the TV in the late afternoon and found Hagee on. Part of his sermon really hit home... he said in order for there to be a resurrection, there had to be a cross. In order for there to be a purchase, there has to be a cost. I was going through this 'disappointment' and 'pain' because something big and wonderful is in His plan next... I'm clinging to that !!!! God knows best.There will be something positive from what brought those tears... I just have to hold on to the faith and cling to the hope of the 'wonder' that is soon to arrive. The afternoon ended with much love in my immediate family despite the fact that my husband was also greatly affected by the drama of the morning and the hasty exit of our company. He realized how hard I tried to make it a wonderful week and how many slights I overlooked and continued to stick it out in kindness anyway. God knows I did my best and although I failed in retalliating that morning I did try to right it and I did it sincerely. So now a new day begins and the devil has already started to attack again... this time interfering in my marriage.My husband was so close this week, so supportive and now this am he has locked me out of the computer.I had to call to get in and it required him to create a whole new page for me to log on with. I told him I was sorry he felt the need to keep things private from me and that I didn't mean to invade his computer space.He was on the defensive... I don't know what is going on... other than the devil is really working on us.I'm praying for protection and for peace as I know the attacks won't work but may continue a while longer.Thanks for keeping me covered!! And for letting me babble on!! Love and hugs to you Annette!!!--- jen
I am so sorry to hear about all of this! First of all, I can totally understand that you would be upset!!! You do not give up your human emotions and reactions when you become a Christian. I think that your reaction was as Christlike as was to be expected in that circumstance.
That was very rude of them. You put alot of energy and heart into putting those baskets together. However...I think that when we come to know the Lord and want to live differently we forget that people in the world are truly unmotivated to live good lives. My husband (and me too at times) just marvel at his brother's selfishness with us.
My point being, you did all that you did to make an impact for God. He saw that. He looks at your heart, not at what happened. He knows we are but dust! If you feel like you did not react in a Christ like way then ask God's forgiveness and move on. Forget what is behind and press on.
I do not think that we are to be "doormats" for Christ. The word says to be angry, but do not sin. Do not let the sun go down on your wrath. In other words, if you need to seek forgiveness, then do. It already sounds like you did. You did not ask them to leave early. They decided to.
One of the hardest thing to really get is that God is in control. He is in control of every situation so we can fear disappointment less, we can fear the reaction of others less and less, knowing that He is in control.
Becoming Christlike is a process. Please, please do not get down on yourself. Jesus loves you so much this morning! If you get a chance read Psalm 91. It is so comforting.
If God gives you another opportunity to show kindness to them, do it. That is showing the love of Christ. Not holding a grudge. Being willing to reach out again even if someone has taken advantage of you.
I am not quite sure that I understand about your husband locking you out of the computer. Were you guys able to get it all worked out? Now you have your own sign in page? Maybe that is good.
Jen, my prayer is that you and your children would find a good bible believing church that has a good women's ministry. You really, really need the fellowship and guidance of some Christ following women. In person.
Do you live in a rural area or are you close in where you would have several places to try? If you decided to take the kids the church on Sunday and just leave the choice to hubby as whether to go would he be ok with that? I have found personally and have heard this from many others that that is what they did and their husbands eventually joined them. You leaave the decision up to him whether or not he goes.
It is a hard thing in a marriage when you have come out of partying as a lifestyle and all of a sudden they see such a change in you because it effects them! They do not have the same partner. Jen, my house used to be party central!
Slowly but surely we have moved away from that. I quit participating in the drinking but left my husband in God's hands. It was very hard sometimes because my hubby would drink alot in front of our kids (they are 16 and 21...the hard part is that they knew he was going to church with me.)
He has finally gotten to the place where he will acknowledge that it is not a good example to drink a ton around them. He had one beer with his brother yesterday is all.
I apologize for the sermon! My heart just breaks for you!
My points:
Do not beat yourself up about yesterday. Give your disappointments and expectations to God because He is in control.
Please, please look into getting into a good church (Baptist...some of them, Calvary Chapel, some community churches are good)and find some women to fellowship with and learn the bible with and seek God with. We need each other so much.
Jen, Jesus knew what you wanted for yesterday. He knew that you wanted Him to be glorified. You did that. You are a human being with very human emotions and reactions. It takes time. Some of us take a lifetime. Just keep giving Him your expectations. He is in control, so even if we cannot see what good can come out of it He does, so we never have to be disappointed.
Much love to you!!! Keep in touch and let me know how things are going. Read, pray, trust!!
with tears rolling, I thank you!! That was not a sermon... that was a sweet comforting response and I am so grateful that you understood where I was coming from. I am not disappointed now.Now it just reaffirms how much I have been changed in Him.I'm not being proud or pious.I can honestly say that their eyes just aren't open ... yet!I pray that all I offered in order to show them His love will make them wonder as they travel on to visit the rest of their family on the East coast. They are non-believers also and I can only guess that it will not be easy traveling to these homes with 3 little ones and mant hours on the road.I look forward to extending kindness to them again.But next time I think I will do all the 'extras' for Him instead of trying to show them Him.That way there is NO room for let down... He will be my goal! Thanks again and by the way... I'm going to my first Bible study tomorrow .It is starting with Luke 16.I can't wait!!! As far as the hubby...I don't know either. I'm going to just stay in the word today and enjoy the quiet after all the kids are off to school ( except for my littlest--maybe he'll want to snuggle!). I'll be praying for a productive work week for you and continued comraderie with your boss !!! Hugs --- jen
Thanks again for all the support concerning the Easter weekend!!! You most definitely have my prayers for Jerry!!! Your kind spirit and gentle loving approach is going to speak volumes to him especially as your visits become more frequent!! Let your light shine, Annette!!! Just keep loving Jerry and know that I will be praying for his heart to soften towards Jesus!!! Love you !!! big hugs--- jen
Thank you for your contageous enthusiasm and encouragement too. How did the bible study go?
Thank you sooooo much for your prayers for Jerry. I pray that God will be relentless with him and soften his heart and mind. I also pray for the boldness that I need to speak what God wants me to say.
Annette -- So how's the task dedication going? And the relationship with the boss? I hope you are inspiring each other!! Bible study was fantastic!!! The best part was that I was sitting in a room of about 12 people and they all loved the same thing as me!!! I liken it to when you have a baby...you know how everybody loves a new baby and you're so proud and excited to see them love that precious baby of yours as much as you do!!! That feeling!!I was truly with kindred spirits and even tough we didn't all see the verse as the same and come from a variety of perspectives due to the differences in age, it was amazing that in the end we all agreed that it is God's will and we are blessed because of what Jesus offered us!!! I think I almost floated out of that little building! Thanks for asking !!! Have a super Wednesday! hugs-- jen
My job is such that you have to do it for the Lord and the Lord alone every minute. I do not have anyone around and I have to say that my boss does not seem as committed as I would like to see her be. It is my stuggle right now and I know that it is one of the methods that God is using to cause me to cling to Him.
Thank you so much for your prayers for my uncle. I am praying constantly that God would wrestle with him and get through to him.
I am going to call him this evening after I get home from work. Please pray that God gives me the wisdom to know what to say and the boldness to say it!
Marge, if you peek in here, how are you doing? Sure love you!
Annette --- I will pray for you to have words of wisdom sent directly to you from Him for Jerry. I will also pray that if the words aren't there that you will find comfort in knowing that the Lord is taking care of it all in His plan according to His will. I'm sure Jerry will find comfort in just the act of your calling him to check and see how he is doing! Prayers are with you and Jerry both!!! hugs -- jen
Well, I called him about 7:45 and his wife answered the phone. She said that she was trying to put him to bed, that he was especially tired.
She told him it was me on the phone and asked if he had the strength to talk. He said no.
I told her I would try to call today. I have read and prayed all morning. I am so caught in a wrestling match. Everything in my flesh is afraid to "push" the door open but yet I know that this man is on his way to an eternity in hell.
I hate the fear of man. I want to fear God and do what is right in His eyes. I am so weak. If I am to do this, it will have to be God's doing. I am so afraid I will fail Him and my uncle.
If you happen to read this, please, please pray for me to say the right thing and that God would soften his hard, hard heart.
Grace, As it happens I have the evening off :) And I was thinking about you, and your bad day at work, (the other day) and your Uncle.
First of all, don't blame yourself about venting. I've done the same thing :) Kept things under wraps, and then 'after' the event, allowed myself to vent, and sometimes, 'blow,' LOL. Unfortunately, it's all a part of the fallen nature of mankind. And some temperments aren't into starting anything, like a fight. And, that's what would have happened, if you'd have said, or done anything to the person that was being aggressive towards you. (hey, the odds of that happening were VERY high :) But, hey, you've repented, and God doesn't hold anything against you, as you know. There is an excellent 'tool' out there, in the form of a book, by Dr. Tim LaHaye, called, 'Why You Act the Way You Do,' or something close to that, LOL. I dunno, as I've probably bought a dozen, or so of those books, over the years, and given them away. It not only explains why you act the way you do, but it explains the 'bully' temperment. Was it EVER helpful to me, and a lot of others that have read it, too. Anyhow, just a thought along those lines.
Your uncle. You're praying for his salvation, and many others are as well. I know it's probably not what you want to hear, but sometimes, (after giving our witness) we have to lean upon the Holy Spirit to persuade people to come to a saving knowledge of Jesus. And the Holy Spirit came be there, when your uncle is tired, and others aren't allowed in, etc. Of course, still pray for discernement about seeing him, and such. But, there are times, when we've done all that we can do, humanly, to just pray, "gett'em Holy Spirit!" And also pray, that another Christian can speak to him. Perhaps a Nurse? Also, I believe that people often call upon the name of Jesus, in their last moments, here on earth. That isn't God's best plan for anyone......but it sure do beat going to hell!
Well, know that people are agreeing with you in prayer, for your uncle's salvation, and also that God answers prayer, and that prayer changes things!
I love you, my dear sister in the Lord, and ALSO a fellow Washingtonian :) God bless you richly is my prayer :)
Annette --- I'm so sorry to hear how tired Jerry was and that he wasn't up for a talk with you.I have to agree with Marge, we aren't meant to save anyone only to plant or water the seed. You have plnated, and have tried to water but now it is up to Him.The father at church today said we should give all our problems to Him, take it all off our plate and let Him cut right throughit inorder to solve it in the manner He finds most suitable. You have done what you can so far. Now offer yourself as a reasonable living sacrifice and give Jerry's decision for Christ to Him to fulfill in His time. I'm truly seeing in my new walk that the less I try the more I gain. It's that my plan is never godly enough, I HAVE to let Him lead...we are just the physical body, He's doing all the work...if we let Him. I liken it to being a puppet (but that's my baby Christian view point I guess). So give Him your heart and your shell and let Him walk you through whatever conversation is yet to come... or not come.Jerry knows what you believe in, he knows who to call if he has questions. Be in the peace of Jesus, sweet Annette. Just hold Jerry's hand if that's all that you're called to do.God loves you and He will take care of you and Jerry both. You are in my prayers!!! much love and many hugs!! -- jen
Thank you so much for your continued prayers and encouragement!
I called Jerry on Saturday but he was sleeping. I was thinking maybe he was avoiding me. I talked with Kelly, his wife for a couple of minutes.
My step mom came over lastnight and said that she was talking with his wife today and that all he is doing is sleeping and getting up for meals.
She (my step mom) said something interesting. Last week when she was talking with Jerry, he said that "I guess that people are preaching to me now. It is a little late isn't it? I don't want to have to go get baptized and all of that now."
That means that he is thinking about what I said to him and wrestling with it. It also means that he does not understand God's grace and what is required to be saved.
I pray that God gives him a desire to hear of His grace and he will want to know what he must do to be saved. *Sigh*...and then that God will give me the opportunity and courage to say it. I need a miracle Lord Jesus. For both him and me!
Because I had the conversation with my step mom (who is not saved), I was able to tell her that God does not give up on Jerry as long as he has breath. We talked about the thief on the cross and that Jesus gave him eternal life because the thief acknowledged that Jesus was the Son of God and BELIEVED that Jesus would be save him.
Of course she said that she did not think he was the type of person to go to hell..."I mean he has not killed anybody or anything." The enemy has people so deceived. But, God planted a seed.
Thanks so much for your prayers! You are right, we just need to be His voice, His arms and let Him do His work.
Honey, I am quite sure that many, many people are praying for Jerry. And with much fervor as the hour is so late for him.
I wanted to ask you are you the only saved person he knows that might be seeing or talking to him now?
I've got it in my mind that you are, but I'm not sure that I know that.
Is he at home with hospice or in the hospital? I've been picturing him in my mind at home.
They are probably upping the morphine as he progresses towards the end also.
Have you thought about sending him a letter? You could explain as concise as you can about how to be saved.
Something like this.
"Uncle Jerry, I know that you told me that you are not interested in God or God talk. But, I love you Uncle Jerry and I have to keep trying as long as you have breath.
There is a God, Uncle Jerry, and He loves you. He sent His Son Jesus to die on the cross to pay the penalty for your sins, and mine and everyone who ever lived.
None of us earn salvation, it is a gift that God offers each and every one of us.
The only thing He asks of you is to receive His gift of salvation. It is yours, just for the asking. If it were possible, I'd ask for you, but God insists that you have to choose it for yourself.
Every person who spends eternity with God in heaven, will have gotten there the same way. Because they asked Him to save them. Not because of any other thing that they did or did not do.
For by grace are you saved, through faith, and that not of yourself, it is the gift of God.
Uncle Jerry, the only sin that sends anyone to hell is rejecting that free gift of salvation from the one who loved you enough to die for you.
I am praying that you will ask God to forgive you and ask Him to save you."
Everyone who has been giving you advice is right about not feeling badly at yourself if Jerry chooses to reject Christ. But, you must make sure that you have given him enough information to accept or reject the gift. It would be so great, if you could be there with him to lead him in the prayer of salvation. But, a note with the important information is better than nothing.
We love you and will continue to pray for you and Jerry.
And about that step mom of yours, what did you say to her when she said "it is not like he was a murderer, or whatever? Did you explain to her that the only sin that sends people to hell is the sin of rejecting the free gift of salvation? I hope so.
As far as I know, I am the only saved person in his life. Who knows who God would bring to him though.
He is at home and the last I heard is that hospice is available to answer questions but are not on the premises.
I believe that it is his desire to stay at home and I do not think he is on morphine at this point.
I am going to call his wife in a bit to see how he is doing.
He lives about 75 miles away from me, but I would drop anything I was doing to come down to be with him if he asked.
Yes, I think that I will send him a card with a letter in it. I do not think he has strength enough to read at this point so when I call his wife today I will mention that I am sending it and ask her to read it to him.
I agree, I do not have peace because I do not believe that he has a good enough understanding of salvation to make a decision.
When I talked with my step mom we focused more on the fact that it is not whether you are a good person or bad person that determines who goes to heaven, but it depends on trusting in what Christ did for you on the cross. your point is definately one that I want to get across to her more firmly when I have opportunity.
Thank you for your prayers and advice. I am really asking God for His wisdom and insight to Jerry's thinking as to what to write.
Caught your request on Joel's blog. Your uncle is in my prayers. As child said, you know there are probably many people praying for his salvation.
I know what a difficult time this is for you. I also know how burdened your heart is. Let the Holy Spirit guide you in what you should do and we will also lift you up that you are given the courage to say or do whatever He asks of you.
I love you, Annette. Keep us informed on Child's site if you have time o.k.?
I love you too Sue! Your love and giving to Lisa and her family has been such an inspiration to me!
Well, I just called Jerry and his wife was very polite but curt to me.
He was up and asked who was on the phone but did not ask to speak to me.
This really confirmed to me he has hardened his heart, at least toward me. His wife is very protective of him and acts like a barrier to anything he does not want to deal with.
I need God's guidance so much. I cannot shrink back because I feel rejected by them but I need great discernment to know when to just quietly leave it all up to God's intervention.
I need to go pray and read the Word and go with what God confirms in my heart.
I do know that there is a scripture that says that anyone who gives up "father, mother (or other family)" for Jesus' sake that He would return it to them many times over. His eternity is more important than how he feels about me.
I just need to know what God would have me do and then know that He will give me confidence to do it.
I am kind of at a loss of words. I really don't know how to respond to your replies to me and to Sue.
I do want you to keep this is mind, please.
We have the revealed will of God is His Word. It is not his will that any perish, but all come to salvation through his son.
He has promised us that if we step out in faith to proclaim the gospel that the Holy Spirit will not maybe fill our mouths with His words.
You do need to have the Holy Spirit's leading perhaps to timing, but not to whether you should make the attempt.
All of the above is not to say that Jerry won't refuse after all your prayerful attempts. He may, but you will know in your heart that you did all He asked you to do.
I am praying that God will speak to your heart with His timing, and that you will gain the knowledge and the confidence that you need.
The fact that Jerry is dying makes this harder for you than sharing with a person who is not, you may be afraid that you will blow your last chance at leading him to the Lord. I'm going to pray that Jesus will remove those thoughts from you, if you have them. He said it is our responsibility to share, and the results of that sharing is His responsibility.
I hope I'm not making this harder for you. I'm only trying to help muster your faith and confidence in the Holy Spirit.
Why don't you try writing the letter and see if the Holy Spirit helps you pen the words.
You have a lot of prayer behind you little sister.
I am going to be totally honest here. I have taken this to the Lord many, many times through this trial.
I think I have prayed as much about my anxiety about sharing Christ with Jerry as I have about his salvation.
I have really had to look at which I am more concerned with. This is just laying my heart on the line.
Every time I call Jerry, I get the feeling that his wife does not want me to talk with him and I feel very rejected. She is quick to get me off the phone and does not offer to let me talk with him.
I talked with my dad tonite and he said that he talked with Jerry's wife for quite awhile today which tells me that she is willing to talk to him but not to me.
It just makes the thought trying to find a way to share Christ with a man who does not want to hear it even scarier.
I just have to put this in God's hands. I have asked Him to let me know in no uncertain terms where there is an open door and then to shove me through it by His spirit.
I so want to be faithful to God and to love Jerry with God's love. To care more about his salvation than my comfort. This has got to be a work of the Holy Spirit because this kind of boldness is not in me.
We came home from my daughter's choir perfomance tonite and I opened my bible to Psalm 27.
The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid? 2 When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. 3 Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident. 4 One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. 5 For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock. 6 Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his tabernacle will I sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the LORD. 7 Hear my voice when I call, O LORD; be merciful to me and answer me. 8 My heart says of you, "Seek his face!" Your face, LORD, I will seek. 9 Do not hide your face from me, do not turn your servant away in anger; you have been my helper. Do not reject me or forsake me, O God my Savior. 10 Though my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will receive me. 11 Teach me your way, O LORD; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors. 12 Do not turn me over to the desire of my foes, for false witnesses rise up against me, breathing out violence. 13 I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. 14 Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.
I pray that you are feeling better Child! Did you get to the doctor today?
I'm sorry, I've just had the chance to catch up on posts. I have my own mini-drama at home and a few of us sick.
Reading your posts on Joels blogs and at Child's and mine I see a brave heart who loves the Lord and really isn't afraid to "put things out there" although its cyberspace. I know that you have it in you to speak to your uncle in complete and utter love. Your words exude love and compassion. Everytime I read a post from you I cannot help but want to meet the lovely woman who writes these words.
I know you are afraid. But you do not need to be afraid. Your uncle is dying. You do not need to be afraid of his wife either. You come to them with the love that is in all of your posts, and you share with them why your heart is burdened and what your hope for Jerry is. As you said, it IS NOT TOO LATE IN THE GAME!!! It is not God's will that he does not find eternal life... so this prayer is already in God's will. Jerry knows that you love him, honey. He does. I know with my whole heart that that man knows you love him, and how hard this must be for you to care enough to step out in faith(and even awkwardness for you) to make sure he understands Christ's loving offer of salvation and eternal life.
Tell him about the cafe, Annette. Tell him about heaven...even if you have to tell him through tears. I promise you that initially your heart will be pounding so hard you will think everyone can hear it, but once you get started it will just flow....Tell him everything the Holy Spirit gives you and He will. Believe me He will. Know that you are girded in prayer. You are not doing this in Annette's power. You are doing this in Christ's power.
I was reading in Acts this week about the Holy Spirit being poured out in those days....Do you know Annette that it is just as true today as back then? Do it. Don't be afraid, fear is not from God. Perhaps your fear is that you will not say what you know is on your heart before it is too late. Don't let your heart be troubled. You will have no regrets after you speak to him. And remember it is ultimately Jerry's decision. And he may not decide right then....but prayerfully he will decide before he takes his last breath.
Grace, You know, I wrote a letter once, to a follow worker, that was dying of cancer. She was a hard core Gal, that did things on her own, didn't believe that there was a God, and if there was a God, who cared, etc. You couldn't get close enough to her, to breath the name of Jesus, without her telling you that she didn't care, blah, blah, blah. Well, as child of the King mentioned, a letter is an option. At any rate, I knew the Holy Spirit was urging me to write the letter, and write it I did. I ended with, I realize you don't believe in God, etc., but what if you're wrong, (which I had told her, I believed in God, for many reasons, etc.) why don't you pray, that "if there is a God, reveal yourself to me." And be opened minded about it. Because this Gal was a believer in 'fair play.' Anyway, I have no idea what happened, as I never heard. However, my point is, (we're getting there, slowly but surely, LOL) was that when she did pass away, my friend, Mary (another Mary, not my friend at the Bakery) said, that well, I wonder if she read my letter. Your letter, I said? Yes, Mary said, that she felt led to write to her, as well. So, my reason for writting this, is to encourage you, to pray about writting a letter, with a card. Anyhow, out of the mouth of two or more witnesses, right? There were two, in the one occassion, and now two for your Uncle, as after praying, I whole heartly agree with child of the King, to go ahead and write that letter. I love you, and I know you'll hear from Heaven about what to do, in regards to your Uncle Jerry.
Remember that the joy of the Lord, is your strength, too :)
Thank you so much for your heartfelt words. You just do not know how much I appreciate your prayers and advice.
I stopped by a Christian bookstore yesterday and found an incredible card. It was a very masculine looking card and had the perfect saying in it.
Along with that, inside on the left it had statements about how we know we can be forgiven, how we know we can have eternal life, how we can be assured that God loves us. Then, on the back of the card was the salvation message with scripture and a "prayer of assurance" which was basically a salvation prayer.
I just felt like this was one of God's answers. Jerry may see that as being a little more authoritative and not just my opinion. He may be more inclined to read a printed card than something hand written.
On the inside I wrote that his family most assuredy loves him and something to the effect that the God of this universe takes time out of his creation to touch one heart.
I pray that he will be compelled to read the whole thing. He certainly has alot of people praying for him and I am acutely aware that this is a spritual battle far apart from what I do or do not do.
I think he is very angry at me right now and may not let me come down to see him again. I came to the resolution yesterday that if God just wants me to go down there and opens the door that I would be willing just to go hold his hand for awhile if that is what God wants.
So, as you said Marge, I really feel like all of this was confirmation. Now that I think about it, I was talking with a friend yesterday and she suggested sending him a card too.
Thank you again so much. I love you and cherish you all beyond description.
We WILL meet someday...isn't that amazing?
Marge, I get up to the Tacoma area on occasion and would love to have some pre-cafe coffee with you when I do!
I will keep you all posted on what happens here.
May the Lord keep you and bless you and may you truly know the reality of His love today.
Annette --- So glad you found the right card! My computer has been down and I have been praying that you would find some peace in this situation with Jerry! Sure did miss everyone the past few days! Yes, the Tech tragedy did hit home. I have several friends with kids that go to school there but thankfully all have been accounted for and are safe! It has made me really ache for all of those families and my thoughts keep going to " I hope they were all saved". It has also prompted much discussion here at home with the hubby. So much that I can't go through it all but I do see God doing some serious work on him and on many others that I see frequently...it is as if God is being mentioned in almost every discussion that I am apart of these days and I'm notthe one bringing Him up... others are and are getting curious! Praise God! The less I try to "do" and control my life, the more He takes over and I love it! You have done a good thing with Jerry and although you may feel shunned now, you never know who may be coming to ask you questions soon. They all know where you stand... in His light....and now they know when the questions start riddling them who they can ask for further guidance. I know I'm new at all of this and younger to boot but I have to tell you... I am so proud of you!!!Much love and many hugs!!! I hope to check in again soon if this computer keeps working!!! ---- jen
I have not heard anything from Jerry. I just mailed the card late yesterday afternoon so he may not get it until tomorrow.
My dad said that he was going to go see him but I have not heard anything from him.
I will let you know. Thank you for all of your prayers. We have so many people praying for him. God is able to take care of all of this. I am really trying to listen to Him for direction.
I have been continuing to seek the Lord and pray for Jerry. I can truly say that I really did feel God's peace and His love for me yesterday, even in the middle of all of this.
I talked with my dad yesterday and he did go down to see Jerry on Tuesday. He said that he is so weak that he can hardly lift his own hand.
Hospice was coming yesterday to take him to the hospital to have another periocentisis. His wife has always taken him in the past, so that tells me that he cannot even walk.
My dad (without prompting) again said that Jerry specifically said that he does not want anybody doing any "religious mumbo-jumbo" over him. Then went on to talk about Jerry's "atheism".
God is bigger than any interruption from Jerry's wife, He is bigger than any objection that my dad can tell me about and He is bigger than Jerry's hard heart.
I can pray, I can extend myself to him to show God's love and then I have to leave it in God's arms.
I am going to call a little later this morning. Unless the Lord intervenes I may be met with a cold shoulder and not be allowed to talk with him. I put that is God's arms too.
In all of this, when I was talking to my dad yesterday, I was able to slip in a the statement that people do not get to heaven by being good, that we get there because of what Christ did for us. I would have loved to have gone through the whole salvation message, but this was a seed planted.
My family is totally unchurched. As far as I know they do not understand salvation. I am the only christian aside from my cousin who is Catholic, but I believe from talking with her that she is saved.
Well, I have gone on long enough. I so appreciate the fellowship and prayer support from all of you!
Annette -- Had to stop by and say "HI!!" . I pray for you and hope that you are at peace with all that you offered Jerry. Now I also hope that you are able to enjoy some beautiful weather!! I'll check in again later !! Hugs for today! --- jen
Keep fighting the GOOD fight of Faith, as well! Realize it is a fight, but a 'good' fight :) And remember, Jesus said, "Be of Good Cheer, because I have overcome the World."
I'm standing in Faith with you, for your Uncle's (Jerry) Salavaton. And I'm also praying that God sends another Believer into your Uncle's life, to witness to him, as well. Perhaps a Christian Nurse, or Doctor? As long as there is life......there's hope for his Salavation!
I love you, and God bless you, and keep you, in God's perfect peace :)
Just checking in real quickly. I try to read Joel's blog every day and just do not want to comment so much of the time.
Jerry went in to have a tube put in so he can just go to the clinic to have the periocenticis done. That was yesterday. God is sustaining him and as long as he has breath there is opportunity for him to accept Christ.
Thank you so much for the encouragement and prayer!!
I am praying that God will speak to Jerry even in his sleep. That God would bring people and circumstances his way that speak to him only how the Holy Spirit can. I am also praying that God will give me direction and opportunity if I am to go see him again.
Thank you for your prayers....I just wanted you to know that even though you may not post on Joel's site too often you are still not far from my thoughts and prayers.
And I agree as long as Jerry still as breath, there is hope and a whole lot of prayers going up for his salvation!
Thanks so much for thinking of me and praying for me. I'm doing alright but still have pain in my left leg for unexplained reasons.
Also, I think I posted a few months ago that I was doing a bible study for girls in a treatment facility. Since I posted, it has really gotten bad. The other "believer" I've been working with is not really walking with the Lord and making it impossible for me to continue in the ministry. She asked me to hold her accountable, and now only wants to hear what her itching ears want to hear. This Saturday will be my last week there. I love the girls and don't want the enemy to get the upper hand, but this other woman is not allowing me to continue because she doesn't want to work with me. Amazing what people are doing who claim to be believers but it seems the truth is not in them. I have been praying and praying for her. I know the Lord will find somewhere else for me to minister, but it's hard.
I'm supposed to do a month of physical therapy for my leg, though they have no idea what's going on, and I feel it's a wild goose chase that's going to cost a lot of money. Please continue to pray that the Lord would be the great Physician and would be the only healing I need.
Thanks for checking in on me and praying for me, it's wonderful that I can have a sister who I feel akin to that I've never met, and feel so distant from others who I see all the time. There is fellowship in the Spirit no matter how.
Grace, I'm so sorry that your Uncle Jerry passed away, without the knowledge of his salvation, one way or another. But God knows your heart, and your intent was one of love and compassion for your uncle, right up until the end. However, we can still pray for the remaining unsaved family, for their salvation. Especially in this time of loss, there will be fertile ground to plant many seeds :)
Grace --- Oh, how I have had you on my heart !!! I am so sorry to hear of Jerry's passing and I hope that he had found the truth . You were the one heavy on my heart though and not really Jerry. I hope you know how loved you are by all of us and most of all by the One who chose to bring you back into the family!!! I praise God that you and I will meet someday soon!!! Be strong in Him and know that the Lord is never far!!!! You are special and loved and a blessed friend in Christ !!! Hugs to you , Annette!!! -- jen
I do not think that there is anything more discouraging than dealing with a believer who is apathetic or uncommitted. I will join you in praying for this person. What is going on with the girls in the facility? Are they still open to you? Bless you for your heartfelt efforts for them. God will use everything we give to Him.
I will be praying that God will make whatever steps are next very clear to you. Even if that is just to trust Him that He has it in control.
Keep writing and posting! I love your blog. It is encouraging, truthful and charming!!
I just have to let you know how much I enjoy reading your posts at Child's blog and on Joel's and wherever else I am catching them!! You are a delight and I love you so much!
Thank you for your encouragement about Jerry. I know I prayed, and I prayed that God would wrestle with him.
From the things my dad tells me, he was a headstrong athiest. How can anyone say that they are an athiest? No one can continue to be an athiest when they have an encounter with the Living God. That is what I prayed God would do. I will not know until eternity.
My dad is really having a crisis over this. Jerry was only 2 1/2 years older than my dad. I got to share some of the plan of salvation with my dad lastnight on the phone. That has never happened until all of this with Jerry.
Would you join me in praying that my dad would understand what salvation is and accept the Lord? I know that God has been working toward this time all my dad's life.
Much love to you and I am serious about that pre-cafe coffee. I will let you know the next time the opportunity comes up for me to go up there!
Jen, I apologize for the delay in my reply. I'm working on a project and it was this morning or not at all!
Thank you so much for praying for me. Ya know, it is really strange but I have had sooooo many people tell me that they have felt burdened to pray for me. Child of the King included.
I have been struggling with a problem in my life and I can honestly say that I finally feel like I have had a bit of a breakthrough about it this week. I have been seeking God like never before, I can tell you that!
I am amazed at how God is opening doors to tell my dad about salvation through all of this with Jerry. I know that I prayed so much for Jerry and shared as much as he would listen to (which was not alot)and that the rest is in God's hands.
Grace, Of course, I'll agree with you, in prayer, about your Dad accepting God's gift of Salvation :) Your Dad is on some very fertile ground right now, and I'm sure he's just one breath away from accepting Jesus, as his Savior and Lord, too!
Sounds good to me! I'd love to see you :)
God's very best to you! and have a blessed Mother's Day, as well :)
Thank you dear sister for the lovely post,,,I really don't see what I said that could have had any impact on 'D'. I was dead serious tho....My grampa was a real reprobate!....But I loved him fiercely and tried sooooo hard to win him for the kingdom... we found him dead 3 days before my oldest daughter was born. So I really am hoping to see that he and Jerry made those decisions for Jesus before the end!
He loved me fiercely too!
You are something special Grace and I love you dearly!
Boy, time sure does FLY!!!! I have been kepping you in my prayers and smile throughout the day as you come to mind!! I miss all my "God-friends" when I can't check in on the computer!! But life is so good right now and God is blessing me in bucket loads!!! The kids are a blast and the weather has been beautiful!! The garden was planted 2 weeks ago and God has taken over...it is growing like crazy! It is such a wonder ...all that He takes care of! Wanted to check in and let you know I love you and pray your job is going well...and that your new prayer desk is wotking out just great!Take care! Hugs ---jen
Grace, Hi there! I've missed seeing you, on Joel's Blog, and also at, child of the King's Blog. How have you been? Busy, I'll bet, what with summer almost here, for real, LOL. (WA. weather, at the first part of June, eh?)
Check in, and say, hello, okay?
Love you a lot, and God's richest blessings upon you, and your family, too!
Grace --- I'm sure the Lord will reveal exactly what your dream was supposed to mean to you soon.... but first I have to tell you what it meant to me!
I mentioned awhile ago at Child's that I've been feeling the strain of daily life and "monotony" I guess. The whole husband thing, you know what I mean. And through my prayers I keep hearing "just do it". So I've taken it to mean ... stop complaining and just do the hard work...whether I like, whether I'm acknowledged, whether hubby pitches in or not.... just do it!! Stop trying to reason and justify and compromise my way out of each situation. Live righteously in my full armor and keep Jesus leading my heart... just do it! And your dream confirms why!!! It isn't easy... it is hard and I do feel like I'm just barely hanging on some days to what is His solid ground! The evil out there is trying to swallow me up but I HAVE to just do it... fight the good fight......because look where it leads!!! Higher ground...stable and secure in Him...victorious in His strength.... saved and loved for all eternity.... with HIM!!!! Oh, that is what we are fighting for !!!
So thank you, Annette for the jolt of joy and a purpose that I can see for today!!! Not only faith in the end result but your dream gave me a visual picture to say no to a glass of wine with dinner, to pray for patience with the kids, and to stick to my chores here at home for my hubby. So happy to see you at Joel's and can't wait to meet you in the sky.... hopefully soon!!hugs -- jen
This is in regards to the dream you posted on Joel's blogsite. I asked permission to post my interpretation first because dreams are personal things, and Joel's blog is by nature a public forum. You may also wish to go through your own personal process of interpretation. It would not be right for me to just launch into an interpretation here without your permission.
In your letter, you tie together this dream of a cliff with your insights into Christian apathy: How do you do life and not get sucked into a life of your own ambition, selfishness and comfort when that is all around you? I have just started to pray against the apathy. You then start describing your dream: I was hanging onto what looked like the edge of a cliff.
To me, the cliff would mean your own struggle against being sucked into and falling into Christian apathy. I remember fighting like mad to pull myself up onto solid ground. I was thinking that I really had no strength and that I had never done such hard work in my life. You recognize within yourself the desire to just accept that you are a born-again Christian and that nothing more is required of you. Yet in that desire lies the abyss of Christian apathy -- I am born-again, once saved, and it doesn't matter what else I do in this life, I will be raptured into Heaven. It would be so easy to "let go and let God," but while this desire has its place, this is not the place for it. This is a spiritual struggle, to pull yourself away from the abyss and onto the solid ground of Christ Jesus. It is not a safe place to be at the top of a cliff -- the wind could blow you over, you could slip and fall -- but for now you are standing on solid rock, and in your heart you know who to praise and thank for the rock. As you give thanks and praise, you are joined by all the others who have struggled and still struggle on top of that rock, and you know you are not alone.
It's also interesting to me that in this dream, you are not rescued by any supernatural agency. You are choosing to climb, and you are doing the climb yourself. You aren't lifted up by angels, a giant hand doesn't swoop down to save you, you don't feel a giant surge of strength propelling you to the top. Instead, you do the climb yourself, with the gifts G_D has already given you. You feel that you "really had no strength", when in fact, G_D has already given you all the strength you need. It feels hard because He has given you ONLY the strength you need. We would always like to have more than we need "just in case", yet by giving you only the strength you need, you must then trust in Him that He HAS given you all you need, rather than trusting in your own strengths.
Your friends, the ones who have let go, whose "idea of fellowship is a potluck," they can still make the climb, but they will need to choose to do so. They will need to choose to swoop to the cliff wall to grab hold, and that's dangerous. They could smash into it and get hurt, and they'll have a much longer and harder climb. Yet it's not impossible, and you need to use your position at the top of the cliff to call down encouragement to them, and be part of the choir when they do make it to the top.
Yep,,,,,I could not agree with your intepretation more.
I have been struggling with a particular area of my life and it is such hard work to do it.
It is hard work to follow and be in fellowship with Jesus. It is. We truly do have to deny ourselves to stay in that fellowship.
I see myself vasilating lately. I just do not feel the drive to walk with the Lord over the last couple of weeks and it is scaring the daylights out of me.
All I can do it go to Him and ask for the strength for the victory and be obedient in what He tells me to do.
I read this, this morning:
Psalm 103
1 Praise the LORD, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. 2 Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits-
3 who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases,
4 who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion,
5 who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
6 The LORD works righteousness and justice for all the oppressed.
7 He made known his ways to Moses, his deeds to the people of Israel:
8 The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.
9 He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever;
10 he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities.
11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him;
12 as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.
13 As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him;
14 for he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust.
15 As for man, his days are like grass, he flourishes like a flower of the field;
16 the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more.
17 But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD's love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children's children-
18 with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts.
19 The LORD has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.
20 Praise the LORD, you his angels, you mighty ones who do his bidding, who obey his word.
21 Praise the LORD, all his heavenly hosts, you his servants who do his will.
22 Praise the LORD, all his works everywhere in his dominion. Praise the LORD, O my soul.
I am so glad that sharing my dream confirmed what you have been experiencing. Keep fighting the good fight. You are such a blessing. I can hardly wait to meet you too!
Ok Grace --- you are RIGHT where I was about a week ago ... so here's some advice! When I felt like I just wasn't winning...like I was such a poor example of Christian living (which I am but thankfully the Spirit is taking over more and more).... well I went and printed out the segment at Child's titled "the 2 natures" , at least I think it is close to that. I read straight thru it ( don't tell Child, she doesn't like me to skip ahead and give in to my impatience :). Well, I cried my way thru each page because it was EXACTLY what I (and now you) was going through. Try it ... go read it ... and really listen and pray for the Sp[irit to let you know what you need to be doing.... you WILL get answers!!
I've never met you Annette but I love you dearly! Can you imagine how much He loves you? He made you! He knows the struggle, the feeling of helplessness, the wondering if we'll ever get it right!!! The best part is He only wants your repentance, your praise, and your giving in so He can get YOU out of the way and get HIS work done!!! Stay in prayer girl!!! Go read that segment Child has on her site and know that it does get soooo much easier when we stop fighting to keep ourselves in front and FINALLY let Him lead!! hugs --- jen
One more quick thought .... I either heard someone mention this once or read it but I hang on to the idea that when I feel far from God that I can do a few things to keep me focused....first I pray as much as I can, giving thanks for every little thing right down to the toilet paper and nail clippers! And then I remember that without a night time I couldn't appreciate the day light and He does promise that He will never leave nor forsake you... so hang on through this seemingly dark time and look forward to when the light shines, when the Son is obviously with you!!! You will be lifted up again!!! So keep fighting ... trudge along if you have to!! But keep looking up ( that's where your aim is...) just like in your dream!!! love ya' -- jen
Thank you so much for taking the time to encourage me.
Well, I do agree on many points from all three of you.
My heart goes out to you Jen, I can identify with the struggle. I have read through Child's study but need to do it again. I will make it my bedtime reading tonite. I know that the study was very practical.
Jim,
You said, "To me, the cliff would mean your own struggle against being sucked into and falling into Christian apathy. I remember fighting like mad to pull myself up onto solid ground. I was thinking that I really had no strength and that I had never done such hard work in my life.
You recognize within yourself the desire to just accept that you are a born-again Christian and that nothing more is required of you. Yet in that desire lies the abyss of Christian apathy -- I am born-again, once saved, and it doesn't matter what else I do in this life, I will be raptured into Heaven.
It would be so easy to "let go and let God," but while this desire has its place, this is not the place for it. This is a spiritual struggle, to pull yourself away from the abyss and onto the solid ground of Christ Jesus."
....I have never been able to just rest in my salvation because I am always looking at my failures. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that my salvation has to be because of the price that Jesus paid or I would never "get in".
John,
I agree about the praise and that I answered my own question!! I read that Psalm in prep for a bible study I am going to next week and I so felt that was the Lord speaking to me...and this...4) "who redeems your life FROM THE PIT and crowns you with love and compassion...reminded me of the cliff in my dream.
Also want to let you know that I appreciate your insightful posts on Joel's. I look forward to meeting you some day! Maybe sooner than we think!
grace --- keeping you at the top of my prayer list in the morning and throughout the day!! Praying that God keeps you close, covered in His love, hidden in His wings, held up by His hands, calmed by His peace!
I wanted to share a conversation I had recently with a Christian friend of mine. We both some months ago commented to on another that we really wanted to be "used" for His purpose soon. Like REALLY do something to show how grateful we are for Christ's sacrifice. Whatever it would take.No matter how big a deal it was. Well it hit us both like a ton of bricks that He has already given the task .... it is the one or two things that we struggle with everyday... that's what we are supposed to be doing to honor Him. So look at your current struggle as a chance to say "Yep! I'm a Christian soldier and proud of it! And I'm going to win this battle with the help of Jesus through the Spirit and it will be my chance to show how grateful I am". He's not asking us to be martyrs! Just aim to be victors in the struggle right in front of us.
And remember none of us are good enough... we can't do anything without Him. So you are never too far from Him... if it's hard to walk WITH Him, step back and let Him LEAD!!! In our weakness is His perfect strength!!! lots of love and hugs---- jen
Grace, I left a few messages, on my Blog. And it says, in a 'nutshell,' that "we labour to enter into the rest that God has promised to His people." Quite possibly the reason for your recent dream.
At Wilma's, you asked, how do you stay in constant submission to the Holy Spirit, I believe. Easy. It's an act of the will. Each and every day, it's a choice you make. And not that I'm perfect, at all! But, I can agree with Paul, "that when I am weak,......then I am strong." And it also involves Lordship. God has to be placed (in my opinion) each day, Lord over your life. The more of your life, you give to Him, the more you'll become strong in those areas :) It's kinda like an illustration I heard once. And it goes like this : If the devil comes knocking at your door,......send Jesus to answer the door! I love it! After all, after you're saved, you have the Holy Spirit living in you, right? Well, send HIM to answer the door of your heart. And often it's not even the evil one. It's the deceitfulness of living in a fallen world, your flesh, at times, etc. Just remember,......if He's not Lord of everything, then He's not Lord at all. (at least of that one situation, etc.) However, God is a God of love, and He knows your heart. So, don't be too hard on yourself. Just give it up. Jesus wasn't kidding, when He said, that His burden was light! At any rate, I hope this helps a little bit. Hey, we ALL have times of testing. And there are days that I feel pretty 'out of it,' to this day. But, when those times come? I say, Oh Father, I NEED you, and your power today, ......and then 'the greater one,' rises up within me! Because when I am weak? He IS strong!
Grace, I love you, my dear little sister! And I'll be praying for you, that God shows Himself strong in your life. Maybe because I was a weak personality, it was easier to just give Him everything. I KNOW I got the best of the deal :) Amen, and bless His Holy name!
Hi lovely lady! I just got back from Ft. Smith and boy did I enjoy the people. Kids are shopping with Mom and Dad for the beginning of school here and they are all so cute and excited. I feel so sorry for the parents because the price of things has just skyrocketed. This is when I am glad to be a great grandma and a spectator to boot.
I read Marge's comments and I agree wholeheartedly with her. If we don't take control of our emotions then our emotions will control us. Not only that but everything gets out of balance and chaos follows. Before I get up every morning, I start the day off thanking God that he is taking me where he wants me, protecting me on the way, giving me the wisdom to handle every situation and the maturity to be rejected at any time. I ask him to surround me with his heavenly host and keep fear and unbelief out of my thoughts. Then I put on my armour and then I praise him for all that he has done, will do and is doing. I love my praise music and it goes on as soon as my alarm clock sounds (my computer is programed that way) and the day is off and running.
Every time I get out of my pattern I get in trouble. Just like taking the medications for the tick bite. I am terribly allergic to just about everything and the fear of that just takes over if I am not careful. What I should have done is called on the Lord to remove the fear, heal the bite, and get me over this situation. I didn't do it and I am still disgusted with myself over it. I will know better the next time and believe me, I won't forget.
Lesson learned the hard way. The longer I wait to get to the Lord for anything the bigger the problem becomes.
I have to stay renewed in my mind and Spirit daily, hourly, by the minute and second. Remember Grace, the enemy of your soul has been doing this type of deed for many, many centuries and God kicked him out of Heaven because of it. If God didn't let him stay around to infect everyone, why should we when we are much weaker and prone to sin!
Let God in, completely and permanently to take every care and weakness out. If what you are holding onto is causing you so much misery then it is not of God. You know, Marge is right about getting to your weakest point and giving in. We all have to do that and my weak spot may not be your weakest spot but the sooner I call out for him to set me free the sooner I can get back to him in complete freedom and power. The power to overcome is still there, even if and when we don't think so. It isn't a formula or a doctrine. It is a relationship and God is the one who stated it with you by the Holy Spirit. He is the one Jesus promised us to be our comforter, guide, counselor and ever present help in times of trouble. Call out to him and let him do the rest. I love you and you are going to be fine and glorious. Why don't you join Marge and I in singing with Vestal Goodman, "if it wasn't for the Lighthouse, where would this ship be......"
I am praying you sis and I know that God is hearing us all! Shalom
As I read your post I thought about what it is that tortures me about all of this. I am afraid, always, that I will be rejected by the Lord because I fall short so much of the time.
I do not do my job as I should and I am not always honest about it. Since I am accountable basically only to myself for it (which is a bad way to run a company) this is truly just between me and the Lord. When I blow it I confess and gather myself up and try again. It gets very weary-making (if there is such a word...)
I am printing out your post to remind myself of this:
"I have to stay renewed in my mind and Spirit daily, hourly, by the minute and second. Remember Grace, the enemy of your soul has been doing this type of deed for many, many centuries and God kicked him out of Heaven because of it. If God didn't let him stay around to infect everyone, why should we when we are much weaker and prone to sin!
Let God in, completely and permanently to take every care and weakness out. If what you are holding onto is causing you so much misery then it is not of God. You know, Marge is right about getting to your weakest point and giving in. We all have to do that and my weak spot may not be your weakest spot but the sooner I call out for him to set me free the sooner I can get back to him in complete freedom and power. The power to overcome is still there, even if and when we don't think so. It isn't a formula or a doctrine. It is a relationship and God is the one who stated it with you by the Holy Spirit. He is the one Jesus promised us to be our comforter, guide, counselor and ever present help in times of trouble. Call out to him and let him do the rest."
I am finally getting it that God is not asking me to prove MYSELF strong, but is asking me to come to him openly, just as I am, and TRUST AND LEAN on Him to get me through the situation with strength, then give Him glory for the victory. Your statement summed it up so very well.
Grace, I only wrote what the Holy Spirit impressed me to tell you. I can't take credit for it and even as I read it, I know he authored it.
I have had to follow that same advice and it isn't always easy to do. I still have to. You will be fine and I am praying that God just open all of the doors that need opening, close all of the ones that are detrimental to your walk with Him, and open the windows of blessings to flow freely.
I just feel I have to repeat this. You Will Be Fine! God hears your hearts cry and he wants the best for you.
Love you Grace and just enjoy that beautiful state of Washington for me.
Grace, How have you been doing the last week, or so? I know you are getting close to your daughter's Wedding, and THAT is a LOT of extra stress, although in a good sorta way :) Job getting any better, or 'just hanging in there?'
Mike's surgery was a success, as I believe you've read about, at child of the King's Blog, right? He still has a swollen tongue, but the swelling is going down, a little bit. However, I know it's frustrating him quite a lot :(
Well, enjoy the Wedding planning as much as is possible, and God's best to you, and yours, too! Much love, as well!
Yes, I have been reading about Mike's recovery on Wilma and Child's blog. Also been reading about the yard and popcorn miss-adventures!! LOL!! You soooo make me smile! I will most definately be praying for you both!
The wedding is less than 2 weeks away. We still have some last minute things to take care of and we are getting the house and guest room ready for my mom to come up.
As I said on Wilma's I really feel the Lord comforting me about how my salvation is secure in him. That is what I have needed. I really appreciate you sharing your stuggles and turning things over to the Lord. It helped me so much!
Things are getting so tense out there and this country is not going in the right direction in any way. The letter to the President from the evangelicals just blew my mind. God protect us and our families!
I can hardly wait to meet you my dear! It may be sooner than we think. I just want my kids saved.....
I do know what will clear up that cold sore. My oldest daughter suffered horribly from them also and tried everything. Finally her internist prescribed a drug called FAMVIR and it works quickly and effectively. He now gives her a good supply to keep in hand for those 'moments'. She usually takes one pill for 3 days and she's cleared up. I'll be praying too!
Hi Grace, Just read about your daughter's cold sores...I've suffered from them, too, in the past, esp. when the stress level is high. If nothing works in time, perhaps knowing that digital photos can be "fixed" to eliminate blemishes will relieve some of her anxiety. I'm a complete amateur in terms of photography, but I often Photoshop away double chins, pimples and the like from my personal photos these days. I've even been known to insert different faces on our children when one isn't smiling for the group photo! I'll be praying for healing, however, as I know that it's not only a vanity issue, but also a painful condition to wait out. Blessings, Jen
Sue, I called her this morning and told her about Famvir. She had already picked up her RX and I do not remember what it was called. Her cold sore was sooooooooo much better and she had just a wonderfully blessed day!
I will keep this RX in mind for next time. Child had mentioned her getting a smallpox shot and that may be somthing that she will do in the future....especially since she landed a great job with benefits today! *See Joel's blog*
Jen, I would love to learn photoshop. I do not have it on my computer but would be interested to know how much it is. I do alot of photos for things I sell on ebay and would love to learn how to do some artsy stuff. I love the "face change" LOL!
Thank you for caring and praying my sweet friends!
Grace, I just wanted to stop by and say, that I'm agreeing with you, in prayer, concerning healing for hour husband's heart problems, whatever they may be.
Also 'Happy Wedding,' as it's just a few days away now :)
I do know that God can do anything to bring about salvation in a person's life. However, it's Scriptural to pray, Matt. 9: 38, too. In fact, I like how the Amplified phrases that verse.
"So pray to the Lord of the harvest to force out and thrust laborers into His harvest."
Anyway, I've seen some awesome answers to prayer, by praying the 'prayer of agreement,' with someone, to have another Christian show up in their life, as 'one that laborers in His harvest.'
I love you, and may God's richest blessings be upon you, and your family! And let us know how everything goes, too, okay?
Grace, What beautiful daughters you have! My goodness, and a lovely Wedding party, too!
I believe you are one tired Mom, right about now! But, everything went well, and the newly wed couple are on their Honeymoon :) So now, you are free to breath a little easier, right?
Many thanks for posting the picture, too! Judy was commenting just today, at, a child of the King's Blog, that she was waiting to hear from you, and to see pictures :) And oh, you HAVE to go to Judy's Blog, and see her neat pictures, that she made. They're way cool!
I just got in from mowing my lawn, and washing Mike's car. So, I'm tuckered out for the moment. But, I'm glad I am, or I wouldn't have gone looking at Joel's again, and around, etc.
Well, get some rest, and let us know how you are doing, okay? We've all missed hearing from you, but we've understood the reason.
Love you, and God's richest blessings upon you, and your entire family!
I thought I would surprise you and come see the low down on the wedding. What beautiful ladies you have captured and not a "cold sore" in sight. Praise the Lord!
I am so glad that you shared the picture with us all. There is so much violence in the world and we need physical evidence of the beauty and love to balance it all out. I really was blessed by the photo and I know that you are relieved that it is all over and daughter is now on a new phase of her life. Just think of the wonderful memories you have in your heart now.
My grand daughter, Carie, is getting married next June and she is so independent in planning for the big event. She doesn't want anyone else doing the plans, making arrangements or anything else because she doesn't want to be a burden. I had so looked forward to helping her and even designing with her the wedding gown and then making it for her. After I was divorced in 1971, I did custom tailoring and sewing for a living. My biggest claim to recognition was from the wedding gowns and trousseau's that I made. I could spend hours just creating and it was a real healer. Besides that, I was cheap and even the poorest bride to be could afford my work.
Now, my grand daughter has purchased her wedding gown and trousseau and I feel cheated. She is my only grand daughter and I just failed miserably. I do have 3 great granddaughters though and I will wait for them to, well maybe not. The oldest one is 10 so it will be awhile. I might just leave them the material and patterns that got created instead.
Anyway, I loved seeing your pictures and looking forward to seeing some more of them. Aren't we going to have a wonderful wedding feast with the Lord! Wow! All of that beauty and love surrounding us will be like, you know, heaven!
Take care and when you get through relaxing let us hear from you more.
Thank you so much for taking a peek at the pic and sharing your heart. By the way, the beauty with the dark hair at the far right is my 17 year old daughter.
I could not agree with you more about how healing designing and creating is!! I feel like my dollmaking has been a miracle worker in my emotions.
I could sense your disappointment about helping with the wedding planning. I can totally understand the heartache since you designed wedding gowns and trousseaus. That would be very difficult. I think that kids these days think that you have to BUY everything and they do not put any value at all on people making things. I certainly see it in my kids.
If it makes you feel any better, my daughter planned ALL of the wedding herself and made it clear that she did not want my opinion or help. I think that this generation sees themselves as very independent and do not see the need for multi-generational help except for paying for the thing!
The wedding was beautiful and she did a good job.
My heart hurt when you said that you felt like you had failed miserably. Is that because she bought her wedding things instead of having you make them? As much as it hurts, that is what this generation values.
Since, I understand that we will work in heaven, maybe the Lord has some tailoring projects in mind for you!!
Family stuff is really difficult and I think that it is sooooooooooo magnified when it comes to weddings, funerals and family reunions.
I had not seen my mom in about 5 years and in my Christian imagination, when she came up here, I was going to be this wonderfully loving and gracious Child of God and be the example that would lead her to Christ.
Ya wanna talk about failing miserably? Well, after about 1 day of my mom being opinionated, caustic, bossy, catty, intimidating and generally butting into my business where she had no right to even step in, my Christianity flew right out the window. It was tit for tat and my only goal was to be as passive aggressive as she is.
Now, the aftermath. She has gone home and I cannot even bear to return her phone calls telling me they got home ok.
I realized that I not only have not really forgiven her for the neglect and abuse when I was a kid, but that I cannot stand her as a person. If she was a stranger, she would never be my friend.
She left me with my dad and grandparents when I was a baby and I did not meet her until I was 16. (Shortly after I was born again, strangely enough.) We had a few good years but I realized early on that there is a distinct spiritual battle that happens when we are around each other. I sense an evil around her. I feel like my spiritual resolve is drained every time.
I must choose to walk in God's word in this situation. I must forgive her for what she has done in the past, and forgive her for what she said and did during this visit. I did not act any better than she did. My heart is so full of hatred that only Jesus can heal it.
Can I forgive someone, but still not want to talk to them unless I have to? I cannot believe the ugliness that I saw in myself this weekend. At this point I am trying not to let it overshadow the beauty of the day. And...it is so apparent that Jesus is coming back sooooo soon and I cannot hold onto this. God's word is truth and I can trust it. I can trust it enough to apply it to this situation.
My apologies for rambling on. I am wrestling with this greatly right now and I have to amend it today.
Anyway, when I get the other pics back I will see if I can figure out how to post some of them!
Wilma, you are a talented, loving, vibrant, intelligent woman of God and I greatly value your fellowship and wisdom. Your talents and experience will never be wasted or overlooked in eternity!!
I tell ya, I am living my life like I have no relationship with God at all. I have been there too many times in my life. I feel like a rebellious child.
I am having to deal with so many things right now that I do not want to deal with.
I just want to rest and be left alone and not have to run 50 miles an hour anymore.
This is a really bad time to be far away from walking with God.
I know how you feel and I know the battle that is going on inside you right now. The only way you can over come this destructive force is with forgiveness and that can only come by the grace of God. I didn't have a problem with my Mother, because we were so close but I did have it with my husband. Yep! This one I have now.
Abuser was his middle name and if his health was better he would be the same today if I allowed him to be. I can only tell you that I had to decide not to have the hate and anger in me anymore and I had to ask my Heavenly Father to help me overcome it. I wanted to be able to love my Jim just like I had before we were married but the abuse was keeping me from it. I asked and repeatedly asked and nothing happened and then one day while I was singing along with the praise and worship group, that anger and hatred just left. I knew Jim would never change without God's provision and provide He did.
Mother's are a different story but the same God and he wants your complete victory so you can commune with him. She is probably a most unhappy and remorseful person who wishes she could relive her life. If not, I wouldn't spend 2 minutes worrying about her. You might have been spared a terrible childhood but by the grace of God you were moved out of the circumstances. Praying for her is one of the hardest things you will ever do because you will almost certainly want God to Get her for you. If you don't you are one fantastic person, and I don't doubt it a bit that you are fantastic, or you wouldn't care so.
It is hard to pray for someone's soul when they are so hostile and cause you hurt. Look at King David's Psalms about his enemies. That is where I was with hubby and I am not ashamed to say it. It took a lot of humble prayer to get me to the point of forgiving him.
You can win this battle and come out better than you have ever been before. It is just a stepping stone to a greater relationship with Abba Father. Ask him to help you and to remove the stone of anger from you. Then address any other spot that has come into your being. You can do it and God will help do it for your soul's sake.
Grace, don't feed on it or it will become like a big wad of paste in your mouth and it will consume all of your time and thoughts. I think you are wise in not responding to her call because it could spark further attacks. I will be praying for you too and I know that Marge will too. You got a sisterhood that cares deeply for you. Love heals a lot of things and memories are included in the list.
You will be fine but it takes a decision that only you can make. Know that she probably is not the best Mother material out there and forgive her. Then take the next step as they are brought to mind, like her leaving you and know that she was not mature enough to know any better, then on and on until all is forgiven. You can't get it all done with one step prayers. Oh, we can but most generally it just takes time. God knows this and he works best when we are the weakest. He is still helping me work through the whole thing but it is one step at a time and I am now able to love hubby like before. Not as passionately but then that goes too, with time.
I feel disappointed about Carie but then you hit on the very thing that I had not thought about. Carie has no idea of the work I used to do because she wasn't even born then. I just realized that if I had been commissioned to do the gown, all of my time would have been taken up with that and knowing me, God would have had to take break time with me instead of devotion times and prayer would have been at the sewing or designing table.
You are right, I have other things I need to be doing. I am so glad you brought that to my attention. Now I can share that with my daughter and she will be relieved too.
I would gladly sew the white robes if they need a stand in or even help cut them out of the beautiful linen. I can't decide which I would rather do: sew or cook the food but one thing I have already asked to be allowed to do is wash and take care of Jesus feet. Now, please; don't all of you super-spiritual experts come running at me over this. If he wants his feet washed, I will be glad to do it and with all the passion I can muster. That is between him and me!
You are a brave woman! I have to admit that I have sensed your struggle with him. I just assumed that it was just being married for so long! You just keep on keeping on and God takes care of the circumstances. Your faith so encourages me.
Has Jim come to the Lord? My husband is born again, but I am greatly concerned about the apathy that he feels about the things of God.
In this circumstance and so many I have faced lately, I think of the verse about whoever chooses to keep his life will lose it but whoever loses his life, for the Lord's sake, will keep it.
I read somewhere that the word "life" translates to a word that is similar to "ego".
I feel like all of this ends up being a stuggle with my willingness to let God have His way in my life.
However, I think I have always assumed that God expected me to muster up the energy and resolve and fortitude of personality to do what the bible says. I think I have changed my mind about that.
Once again, I come to God in my weakness, even my unwillingness, and turn to Him with that tiny ray of desiring repentance and ask Him to help me.
We wrestle not against flesh and blood. Am I trying to wrestle against my flesh with my flesh???
Oh Lord, help me to be willing to turn to You with my whole heart, willing to trust You with the outcome of things if I do them the way Your word says.
Thank you so much my sweet sister! I want to trust Jesus with all of this. He will not cast me out if I have to turn these things over to Him one little shred at a time?
I can really identify what you said about how creating and designing becomes foremost and then prayer and devotions happen on break at the sewing table. I quit making dolls for a year and a half for just that reason.
By the way, I do not think that I pointed the time and focus of that out to you, I think that the Holy Spirit did. If you go back and read my post, I did not say a thing! ;)
Well, I must get in the shower and get ready for work. I also wanted to mention that I have had Psalm 91 posted above my computer for quite some time now and have felt that it is very important.
Grace, Wilma is right, I 'would' have been praying for you,......if I'd known :( I just came here, again, because I wanted to thank you about writing down your Scriptures for today, when the Anonymous got a little cranky with me :) In fact, it was no doubt, my own fault, they did. I was 'trying' to make light of their stupid comments, and thought it might make them 'go away.' Nope. Soooo, I'm 'out of it.'
And Wilma is correct, about stop thinking about it. (as best you can) It's a 'key' I learned from Kenneth E. Hagin's teaching. He said, "he didn't touch things like that in thought life." For years (37 years, to be exact) I've had the kind of relationship that you described with you Mother, with my sister-in-law. And after feeling much the same way you've felt? I had to 'cut' that relationship out of my life. I used to think she was saved. But I truthfully don't know anymore. So, we have an e-mail relationship, (pretty much) so she can keep track of her brother's health. (although she dousn't seem overly concerned)
And it is possible to forgive, an not re-establish the relationship. To re-establish the relationship, IMHO, both people need to be in agreement. Amos 3:3 "Can two walk together, except they be agreed?"
Grace, I gotta tell you, I love you, and I know (somewhat) what you've been thru. And it ain't fun! Because I can't even imagine a Mother being that way. Wilma is right. God saved you further hurt by removing you from her care. And God can heal your broken heart, as well. Give it to Him. One piece at a time, if that's what it takes. And allow Him to do what only He can do, okay? What's the name of that older song? "Is your all on the Alter of sacrifice laid?" (I'm not sure about the last couple of words :( But, it's true of all of us. We can only lay thihgs (and circumstances) on the alter as they are placed on our hearts, right?
Well, Mike is wanting me to go, so I gotta stop for now.
Grace, Sorry about the typos, but out of the blue, Mike wanted to take a run up towards the Mountain. So, we went past Enumclaw, Buckley, and turned around ar Green River. It was beautiful, and we had the top down on his Mustang convertible, so it was fun. Then I came home, made some lunch, and shampooed some carpet. (not all of it, though :) Not so much fun :)
Anyhow, I guess I said, what the Holy Spirit laid on my heart. But I wanted to let you know, that I'll be agreeing with you, in prayer, for a 'breakthru,' with your Mother, and related issues, okay?
Grace, Make that, we turned around at Green Water, LOL. When I told my son, Bob we'd driven to Green River, he said, you mean Green Water. Of course :) Water, river, whatever, you get the point :)
Thanks so much for passing that on. She has been calling alot lately and to tell ya the truth, I just cannot get myself to return her calls.
I just feel so drained from it all and do not want to play nice, so I think it best to not play at all for awhile.
Man, I tell ya, if it is not this thing it is another. Marge, I really feel under spiritual attack this week. If there is a nasty person out there, they are showing up at my door. That word that I also included in that post was from Joyce Meyers devotional. "Do not be dismayed at the opposition." That was powerful to me and then Ps 34 right along with it. Do I need to tell them that I am doin' the dishes???
My reactions have not been good. I am questioning my own commitment to my salvation at this point! I have just had to come to God, without resources of my own and come broken and feeling defeated. But I am coming to Him. In years past, I would not have.
Thank you for praying for me. I love you too my dear friend. When nutty said those things I felt very protective toward you. If I felt that way, can you imagine what the God of heaven and earth felt toward you?
I lived in Kent and Fed Way for a couple of years in my early 20's and remember Green River. My new son in law and his family are from Enumclaw. Most of his family still lives there.
You and Wilma are such Godsends for talking with me and hearing me rants. You know what I am looking forward to most besides meeting at the cafe? I will be sooooo glad when we do not have any more temptation and we have unbroken fellowship with the Lord and none of this grief here.
Best go...but first, if you ever read any of Rapture Alert's articles he has a great one today about trusting in the Lord. A part of it is from Hal Lindsey and another from Ray Gano.
Have a great evening and I pray for peace for you tonite, amid anything that happens with Carole.
Grace, God bless you, my dear sister in our wonderful Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!
And yes, I also long for the time in Heaven, when there will be no more assaults from satan. And he's the one that stirs up people, and causes the great division and problems for us, by and large, too. Relationships are getting more and more difficult to maintain, because of alot of things in this present age. More stress, the loss of moral values, and more satanic attacks, 'as he knows that his time is short on the earth.' And unfortunately, it's painful to walk away from certain people. And each case is different. So, we really need the Holy Spirit to direct us in those decisions. And sometimes, all we have to do, is to give things time, too. But, I've been where you were this last week, at meeting hateful people. At times I think, Lord, where DID these people come from, anyhow? With me, it's mostly Customers. And I've encountered some real Lulus, too :( However, thankfully, you can walk away from them, and know that you don't have to live with them, or anything along those lines. (thank God!)
You know, Ive heard people give their testimonies, that have gone to Heaven. And one of the first things they report is that there is perfect peace there! No confusion, distraction, etc. Just perfect peace. YES! As the song goes, "Won't it be wonderful then." Oh yeah, and then some!
Enjoy your new CD! And remember, that God loves you, and so do I!
125 comments:
Grace,
God bless you, and your new Blog! May it, indeed, be used to glorify and honor almighty God, and uplift the body of Christ.
I'm looking forward to meeting you, in Heaven's Cafe, too :)
So looking forward to meeting you too! Amazing things are happening in these last days.
Grace
Hey Grace,
Glad you're 'blue' and I found you(or your blog). How are things with you and your family....it is exciting times we live in! I am excited to meet each and everyone here face to face at "heaven's cafe".
In Him
Grace,
Did your friend in Tacoma ever find a Church she liked? It kinda sounded like she may be more comfortable in a smaller Church, as she thought CFAN was unfriendly. But, in a larger Church, you have to get involved, maybe moreso than a smaller one. Personally, I've always enjoyed attending CFAN, and have found it true to the Word of God, and the Worship Service is wonderful, too :)
I left a message for you, on Joel's blog, about Bill Cloud. As I mentioned, he is excellent! And with his understanding of Hebrew, he digs out real nuggets of truth, in the scriptures.
God bless, and have a wonderful week, too!
Hello Marge!
My friend has not really looked yet. She is getting married this weekend and has been very busy with the wedding. When all of that is done I will encourage her to pursue it more.
I did suggest that she try a Calvary Chapel. There is one in Fife and she said that is about 20 mins from her.
Thank you for all your help. She just needs to jump in. God has done amazing things in her life and I have seen her grow spiritually over the last few months.
The teachings that I have gone to at Athey Creek are based on Bill Cloud and also Wild Branch ministries teachings.
I am a bit of a skeptic and so much of this is new to me that I just want to check it out. I am blown away by the depth of God's word. I do wonder if some of it is a bit speculative though.
Thanks as always for your input!
Grace
Forgiven Daughter,
Bless you! I pray that Lisa is at least comfortable and that her husband truly comes to know Jesus through this.
I so see God's heart when I see how you both have given your love and friendship to Lisa and her husband.
Cannot wait to meet in the cafe! Until then I will be looking for you on Joel's blog!
Grace
Grace,
I would agree, that some of the teaching is speculation :) Most of these teachings, do get into a certain amount of that. But, you need to keep in the Word, and 'glean' from what they teach, in my opinion :)
I've never heard of the other Ministry, though. However, Bill Cloud really does know his Hebrew, and brings out some really interesting slants on scriptures, from Hebrew perspectives. I must admit, I enjoy that part, a lot!
God's best to you, and have a great week, in the Lord :)
Grace,
I received an Invitation to a Conference, in Portland, Oregon, for May, (7-9, and 10-12) If you are interested, the info. is at:
www.cbcconference.com
And it's being put on by, City Bible Church.
I don't know if you'd be interested, because it appears to be Charsmatic, and I'm finding out that most Bloggers on Joel's Blog, are Non-Charsmatics :) So, just so you know.
May God bless you richly!
Marge,
I am familiar with City Bible Church. I did not recognize the people who were speaking at the conference. Do you know what the emphasis of it is? I did not see a cost, do you kno what it is?
I have a friend who is definately a Charismatic that would probably love to go. I do not know if I would be able to attend because that next week is "birthday season" in our household! It would depend on the cost etc.
If you go and even if I can't, I would love to meet you for coffee or dinner while you are here! (A little cafe preview!!)
As far as Charismatic...I really do have not decided, if that is possible....How do you define a Charismatic? I got saved at 16 and went to a full gospel, pentecostal church. I have attended several Calvary Chapel churches and seen some of the more public gifts of the spirit in operation.
I am cautious about some of the prophetic/apostolic movements that I see today. (I do not know if that is what you mean by charismatic.) However, some of the more conservative churches like Baptist (which I attend right now) just seem to be so apathetic.
Thank you so much for your input about Bill Cloud. This is very interesting stuff.
Much love to you Marge, and may God richly bless you too! (I still listen to Vernon McGee!)
Grace
Grace,
Thank you for your prayers. If you have time I usually leave a longer blog on Child's blog to keep everyone abreast on Lisa.
I feel the same about you, too. You are such an encouragement to me and I'm sure others!:) I hope all is going well with you and your family....Enjoy all of those birthdays...they fly so fast. My oldest is in college and I have one more heading there in Sept.
Much love
Grace,
We share similiar beliefs then :) I hestitate to ever say, I'm Pentecostal, because I'm really not. I guess Word of Faith, (Full Gospel) comes to mind, as a better deffinition of Charsmatic. The difference between a Charsmatic/Penecostal is that Charsmatics usually have come out of Denominations. I was an Evangelical Presbyterian, before I received the infilling of the Holy Spirit, which is, basically, praying in tongues, and also confessing the Word of God over your circumstances. I too, am super uncomfortable about the extremes. As someone once said, the brighter the light, the bigger the bugs that are drawn to it, lol. And I've seen some "Crazy matics," before, too :) That's one reason I suggested the three Churches in the Tacoma area for your friend, as although they do believe in the Holy Spirit, there has never, (to my knowledge) been, even one incident of a message in tongues, during Worship. Not that I don't believe in it? It's just that things can get off balanced, in a hurry. And I feel more comfortable knowing we aren't going there, etc. At any rate, I probably haven't answered your question very well, so if you have any questions, let me know, okay?
It would be fun to meet, but I doubt I'll be able to attend the Conference. My husband is Disabled, (very bad knees, and other health problems) so it's hard to get away, get away.
Let's see, according to all the info. this used to be known as the N.W. Breakthrough Conference. And it's designed to build up Leaders. Hmmmm. I have no idea why they sent it to me, because I'm not a Leader. But anyone can attend. And it appears to be about $100.00 for one person, and $129.00 for a couple, too. And it looks as though Richard and Lindsay Roberts are going to be there, too. (Oral Roberts son) Tommy Barnett, and his son, from the Pheonix area, and his son, from LA's, Dream Center. It does sound interesting, but as I mentioned, I'll probably not get to go to it.
I love you, and thank you for your love, interest, and concern, too. It's great to be included in the family of God, isn't it?
Marge,
Thanks for all of the info on the conference, and help for my friend finding a church.
I will not be going to the conference either. Too much going on that time of year for me.
I did not realize that your husband was disabled. It is a huge responsibility to care for someone and be the big breadwinner too. Bless you in that!
This is the 3rd week for the Prophecy update at Athey Creek. The teaching has been based on the Bill Cloud books combined with some other material. He also uses teaching from Wild Branch ministries.
I have a commitment today so I won't be able to go to this one, but I will DEFINATELY be getting the CD's with the power point presentation.
I feel like the atmosphere in Joel's Blog has changed so much. There were some really negative and deceptive posts and I think that really discouraged some people from being as open as they had been.
Truthfully, I find myself wanting to spend too much time on the internet reading what is good stuff, but really neglecting some important things in my life. God has been whispering in my ear about it and I am working on it.
Hope you are having fun with the puppies! Your son sounds like a kick.
Much love to you sister!
Grace
Grace,
NINE puppies were botn this morning! I posted on, child of the King's Blog, for the news :)
Yes, Joel's Blog comments have changed........because of the demands, in my opinion, to cut the "being open remarks, and stick to the Topic matter, etc." I can say, that I have felt less open there, because of it, at least :(
BUT, another door was opened up, with child of the King's Blog, and others, too. (IF I can EVER figure out how to allow comments on my Blog, lol) But, that was the reasoning behind it, I believe. And God took care of our fellowship, which I agree, with child of the King, is why we enjoy it there. Plus that, I'm NOT a news buff, for the most part, at all! But, it's fun to learn, and fellowship with like minded Believers, isn't it?
Ah yes, the Lord opened that subject up for me, a few years ago. Basically, what is a GOOD thing, OR a God thing :) In my opinion, a little research, is good, but the fellowship is better :) Working Retail, I just can't make all the evening Church meetings, and such. But, I do know, (if it helps you sort things out, that is :) that God encourages fellowship among the Beloved :) THAT IS a God thing :)
I'm not the breadwinner. Mike's knees were torn up, being a Shipyard worker for years. So, he has one Federal Disability, and now S.S. Disability. I bring in about a fourth of our Income, is all, and it helps. Otherwise I wouldn't be able to be cutting my hours back, and enjoying my move into Nutrition. Which starts tomorrow! YES!
I love you, and be sure to allow the Lord to help you decide, what are good things, and God things :) He knows all about us, and our needs.
God bless you, and yours!
I gotta run, as I work tonight......if I don't fall asleep first, ha, ha! (some Hummingbird, huh? HA!)
Grace,
Oops, that were "born," lol.
Grace,
Hope all is well with you Grace. You have been on my mind. Haven't seen your name on the sites for a bit. Has anyone told you that they love you today? I love you, sister! Check in so we know you are o.k.
Hello Forgiven Daughter,
You are such a sweet person. I think of you often during my days too.
Actually, I have been reading the blogs, just not posting. I am really struggling with how much time I end up spending on the computer.
My job is very flexible but I do have integrity to maintain. I am spending time on the computer when I should be working! This issue has been such a difficult battle for me.
You are such a wonderful friend to Lisa. God has put you there for just this reason. Did she know the Lord when you two met? How is she doing? How is your son doing with his asthma?
May the Lord bless you completely!
Grace
Marge,
How are the puppies doing?? How is the new job?
Yeah, I would definately not say that I am a true pentacostal. I do find the Baptist church that we are going to a little too heavy on the psychology and feel good stuff though. I do (and have since I was a teenager) spoken in tongues on occasion but it is not a regular thing for me. It seems like God just pours it out on me when I need to pray intensely.
We had a dear friend, a teenage boy, die of bone cancer last summer. He was who God used to bring me back to Him after 14 years of walking the other way. The burden that I felt praying for him was so overwhelming at times and it seems like God would just step in literally with utterances I could not.
I love the teachings at Athey Creek. They are a Calvary Chapel. I have been to numerous CC's and they are all a little different.
There are so many knowledgable people on Joel's site that I am content to read and ask a question or two if need be. I cannot believe the things that we see happening and how much I have learned about what is going on in the world.
Thank you so much for your special encouragement! I so need to see God in that balance that He is love and not just a big hammer. I really need some healing in this area.
Love your sense of humor! Ya always get a smile outta me!
Much love,
Grace
Grace,
Thanks for the comment on my blog. It's such a neat thing to be able to express what the Lord is putting on my heart. I'm not sure if my parents got to attend all the prophecy updates, they may try to catch them online. Do you know if they're going to post them? The last series they held and posted them all at the same time.
Don't you just love Athey Creek? My husband and I joke about driving the 3 hours each way to go to church there. Our fellowship is great too, but we love Pastor Brett. We're going to his church in April while we're in Portland for my daughters birthday.
Thanks for your encouragement.
love,
Kacey
Grace,
Glad all is well. It's funny how God uses those things in our lives to get our attention and draw us to Him sometimes in a way we've never experienced before.
I would say that Lisa was a believer before I met her but I'm not so sure that she had 'assurance' until after our friendship. For that I am thankful. I posted on Joels about her condition to ask for prayer...she is not good.
I will blog later at Childs....I hope you have a computer at home. Maybe then you can steal alittle time so you don't have to battle that feeling at work.(I understand....God convicts us and we have to act)
Much love
Grace and Ladies,
My new job is great! I love being out of working Grocery. As you mentioned, it is much easier work, in Nutrition :)
Sad to say, the little runt puppy died this morning :( We did everything we could, and we were in hopes all would be alright, and that there were no internal injuries, etc. However, the Vet looked at the little guy this morning, and did everything he could, with no success. But, the Momma, and 8 other puppies are doing fine.
No, I'm not a practicing Pentecostal, I must admit. I pray in the Holy Spirit, and it has been a great advantage to me, and my growth in the Faith. Being rather Introverted, it just isn't my style, I suppose :) But, I don't deny the gifts of the Holy Spirit, either. As you mentioned, we keep growing in Faith, and I haven't arrived to that level, I'd have to say.....yet :)
God bless you all, and continue to remember that the joy of the Lord is your strength.
Grace,
I had to tell you a little something about the Champion Center, in Tacoma. Forget about telling your friend about going to that Church, if she wants to study any prophecy. (it's fine in every other way, though :) As I was getting dressed this last Sunday, I had Kevin Gerald on T.V., and he was making fun of the, Left Behind books. He said, why didn't they call them, Caught Away? And that people were making too many 'weird and wild' comments, and such about the future, and it was making Christians look like a bunch of 'flakes.' He also went on to call 'us,' doom and gloomers :( I thought at the time, well, he must be refering to me, but I'm not all about doom and gloom.......quite the opposite. Then he said, not to e-mail him, because he didn't care about reading them, LOL. Okay, fine. It's been a couple of years since I've been to his Church, and that was only to check it out for my grandchildren....which went once, and that was it. Needless to say, if anyone is interested in end times, this is not the Church to attend. However, he did say, he believed Jesus was coming back, but he disliked the 'negitive' comments, etc., etc. I dunno. I'll continue to watch him on T.V., on Sunday morning, but I doubt I'd recommend anyone attend, that wants to get some teaching about end times. Because it ain't going to be happening from that pulpit :) I really didn't get his reasoning behind it, as he also said, that he was a second generation Minister, and if he wanted to make a lot of money, all he'd have to do is write a book about end times, etc. Of course, he brought up 1988, and 2000. Always a favorite of the ones that slam studying prophecy. Oh well, his loss, huh? LOL. I just thought I'd pass that along, in case, your friend is still on her honeymoon, and hasn't gotten around to finding a good Church home :)
God bless you, and yours!
Grace -- wanted to thank you for all the support you have offered thru Joel's sight!! You are so kind and have such a sweet heart!!! Joel's posted quite a few links today (the 20th) and it seems that the energy has gone up another notch !!!Thanks again and have a wonderful day today !!! love -- jen
Thank you for your sweetness MommyJen.
Never lose your enthusiasm. We do not know for sure what God has planned but we do know that He is faithful to His word and His promises.
I am praying for your Easter that God will accomplish just what He wants.
My daughter and her fiance are coming over and my daughter wants to go to church with us. I am praying that her fiance comes also.
As I said before, we do not know what God has in store, wether it is today or not but times are surely exciting!
Much love to you!
Grace
grace -- you are such a dear !! I just saw your post at my site. Thank you for your concern! I am fine !! Really !! I think all that has been going on with Firgiven Daughter has made me reflective... He is opening my heart and rewriting my past from a different perspective. I saw it from anger and rebellion as a teen. Now as I witness thru Sue's updates, I can see the sweetness of being there for my mom as she passed, the last breath, the tear that fell because I really believe she wanted to stay but that tear was for joy also that she saw where she was going . She's waiting for me!!! I still miss both my parents so much... so many daily questions that I fumble thru and then pray that God knows how inept I am and is picking up my slack.
I am really trying to wait and hear His response to my prayers. I keep getting... 'Be still".It is comforting because I know He is working out the details in His plan. Yet, I've never been one to sit idley by, even if it meant that I'd chose the wrong action.So I'm trying to refrain from speaking too much at Joel's and here at home to my family and friends unless I feel really pressed or have thought it through completely. I don't want to speak just to add my 2 cents anymore... it has gotten me into too much trouble before. Time for this chick to grow up a little bit !! And that makes me HAPPY because I know I will have Him leading me and all of you and the others supporting me.
Thank you for your thoughts and prayers... and I love your real name( saw it at the post to Sue). Reminded me of my mom...Paulette. I love the tenderness imparted by names that end with "ette".
Have a wonderful day and know that I would give you a big 'ol hug if I were there !!love --- jen
Grace -- I just had a thought!!! My husband is putting some of the McLean Bible Church sermons on audio CD's for me to listen to during the day ( so I can still get my 'chores' done). That might work for you on your travels too !! I completely understand about wanting to be on this crazy box and checking in with everyone here and the world stuff!!! But my house still needs to be kept together and you still have a job...so we'll have to find a way to fit it all in !!! Have a blessed and safe day on the route and know that you have many friends/family here who look forward to the next time you check in !!! love ya' --- jen
Grace,
After reading Mommyjen's comments, maybe adding my two bits worth, is just that, LOL. There IS a fine line between 'ministry,' and trying to 'meddle,' as I've come to find out, over the course of the years, LOL
After reading your comments on Joel's blog, I just wanted to remind you, that according to the Bible, fear is a spirit. So, being a spirit, you can take authority over that spirit, (fear) in the name of Jesus, and command it to leave your life.
Most Introverts deal with that spirit, (fear) while Extroverts deal with anger, for the most part. Of course this is, for the most part, speaking in general. I believe a book that both you and Mommyjen might enjoy, is the Temperment book, by Dr. Tim LaHaye. It's been around for a long time, and it's been quite benefical in helping me, understand myself, and thus understanding other people :) It's only a general rule of thumb, as I mentioned, and nothing to go off the 'deep end,' about, either, LOL. (as some have done :(
Also, praying in tongues is thee best benefit, that I've found to overcoming fear, and life, and it's circumstances. Since I've received the infilling of the Holy Spirit, it's made me a stronger Christian, and given me much Godly insight........when I am obedient, and walk in the Light, as He is in the Light. It's an easy thing to get side tracked though, and that's the truth!
God bless you, and have a wonderful day in the Lord, too :)
grace --- I thought about what you said as far as me appearing to be 'discouraged'. So I set out to "shine" on my errands yesterday and discovered I haven't been smiling or laughing much. So I gave several people hugs, smiled at everyone and bought a great little sign to hang over my kitchen sink.When you come in my house there is a sign in the foyer that reads...Today is a gift from God remember to thank Him. Now that always makes me smile! So over my sink I put this one up .... Out of my mind, Back in five minutes. I laugh out loud EVERY time I walk thru the kitchen!!! That's what I needed and oh how true !!!Have a wonderful day today and HAPPY FRIDAY !!! love ya' ---- jen
HI Grace,
Thanks for the warm welcome you posted on my blog. My Mom writes these poems almost as easy as we breathe!
I have to tell you, my Dad is sort of a "quit preaching to me" kinda man too. And she tries to get him to "GET IT" too. Butttt..., so she can really realate to you I'm sure. I am blessed to have a great man in that area!!
Please keep in touch and drop in anytime...I will be posting more of her work here and there.
Have a God Day
Love Judy
Grace -- I have looked for you to post lately and haven't seen anything or else I missed them. I hope you are well and enjoying staying in the word!!! Joel's got another new post up !!! May God bless you today! You'll be in my prayers!! love -- jen
Grace --- I do hope you are just too busy to post...I am praying for you and all that you are doing right now. Stay strong and know that you are loved !!!! hugs-- jen
Grace,
How about the weather today? Almost like Spring has sprung, here :) But, more rain in sight.
Just thought I'd check in, and say, hello, as I have the evening off, and I'm too tired to do much of anything.......but sit, LOL.
Love you, and let us know you're okay, too.
Hello Marge and Jen,
Thank you for thinking about me and praying.
I have been pretty busy, but to be honest, I have been somewhat discouraged. I have been battling a problem in my life and just cannot get through it. I will be so glad when we are with the Lord and there is no more temptation and sin!
I have a prayer request. I have an uncle who is dying. I may have mentioned it on Joel's blog. I was not planning on visiting him so soon, but talked with him on the phone yesterday and he sounds really bad.
I will be going tomorrow. Please pray for him. My dad says that my uncle (his name is Jerry) is an athiest.
I pray that God will open the door to share Christ and make his heart receptive to the gospel.
This is a huge step for me. I need your prayers to "speak boldly as I ought".
Watched Joel on Glenn Beck lastnight. It was great!
Much love to you all!
Grace (Annette)
Grace --- You have been in my thoughts and prayers. I do pray that you will have the words given to you by the Holy Spirit and that your presence will shine so brightly that Jerry will just have to ask you what you know!!!My Psalm that I read the other day said : " be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart".You are doing what is right... be of good courage!!!! Not perfect, just good courage!! He will be there with you!! Love to you and keep us all updated!!!! Hugs--- jen
I thought of something that I read and really liked about witnessing to others. A way to describe why there is a God in basic words.Here goes... When you see a house , do you suppose that it just popped into place from nowhere? No, you know there had to be a builder.The same theory can be applied to whatever the person you are talking to can relate to easily. You didn't see the builder of the home but you KNOW that there was one. The same with our world and God.I liked it. It suits my simple mind and can be a great starting point for conversations from there.
I am praying that Jerry is open and kind to you!!! Hugs-- jen
OK, Grace .... where are you???I know whatever is happening is in His control but my human heart is concerned about you and praying like crazy that you are alright!!
Please check in somewhere so we know how it went with Jerry and how the battle against the 'sin' thing is going!! We are hear for you sister!!! Be strong !! The psalm I read recently said "stand in awe and do not sin". You can do it !!! Hugs to you -- jen
Hello Jen,
Thank you so much for keeping me in prayer. I so appreciate you showing such concern about my not posting! You are precious to my heart. I hope that you did not worry.
This week has been pretty crazy with work. It is our quarterly meeting time. My boss was here from Seattle and we had a big meeting with customers coming in from out of town. It ends up consuming all of my energy.
Be forewarned, this is a bit long....
Actually, the visit with my Uncle Jerry went really well. I do think it was just what God wanted...with more to come.
I have not seen him in about 10 years. Because of that the visit could have been really awkward.
We were somewhat close when I was a kid and he did alot of kind things for me.
I prayed alot about how I was to handle it. I layed it out on the altar that I was petrified, but willing to be made willing if God would open the door.
I asked the Lord for some very explicit answers. I knew that this was a time that I could NOT rely on my own strength, ideas, preconceptions or abilities!!!
On the way home friday, I turned down the radio in my car and just asked God to show me. This may sound craxy, but I tell ya, I felt like the Lord said, "Bring pictures."
I am a real skeptic, but I thought, what would it hurt. I have a few pics of my grandma and some of me when I was little when he and I were close.
I also just felt like I needed to thank him for the good he did for the seemingly insignificant, and very neglected little girl that I was.
I called my dad at 11:00 friday night (he had visited him that afternoon) to see how it went. My dad said that the chit chat was nice, but that all Jerry seemed to want to do was "to look at pictures". I felt like God just wanted to confirm to me that He heard me and I heard Him!
We had a great visit! The pictures really broke the ice and just kind of reconnected us to a time when we were closer.
At one time, he was a very powerful business man and has always been very well off financially because of his electronics companies. He feels like his step children have really tried to take advantage of him and "rob" him because of his wealth.(I did not realize that part until the visit.)
He was telling me that in the prime of his business career he sat on the board of governors and was on the economic steering committee that made Oregon what it is today. That committee was instrumental in bringing in Intel and Hewlett Packard into the state.
Now, I realize that he cannot take any of these accomplishments with him and that it does him no eternal good. It was a way for me to see what his security is and a door for God to show love to him.
I told him..."You have been a very accomplished person, but I want you to know that you made a great impact on my life when I needed to know that someone cared." Then I listed several specific things that I remember him doing, like playing a card game with me when I was 5 when he could have been hanging with the adults....to the fact that he took care of my precious grandmother and gave her a very comfortable life until she died.
Here is the amazing thing. That big powerful man sat there and cried like a baby! (His wife and I did also!!)
The whole visit was amazing. I told him that there are alot of people praying for him. God's love was so evident that you could almost touch it. Did I witness to him? Give him bible verses? No. The door did not open.
I felt like if I were to start spouting bible verses that they would have dropped like a lead balloon. His wife (who I had never met...he was widowed about 9 years ago) never left his side and seemed very protective of him. She even finished his sentences for him!
I did mention several times that I am planning to come visit him again really soon and that I would keep in touch by phone.
I was a bit confused when I left, but had peace. I could not see how the door opened to share directly.
I called my dear friend who has been praying with me about him. After we talked I felt like maybe that is exactly what God wanted me to do.
All his life, his kids have only been interested in his money. They have taken advantage of him and not been loyal at all. I did not want him to think that I have any interest in his material goods. I wanted the visit to be without strings attached.
I think that this visit was to create a bond of love and trust and God will open the door soon. I know that I am to continue to pursue this!
I sooooo covet your prayers for him and his eternal salvation. God knows what is in his heart and how and when to get through to him.
Thank you for remembering the "sin thing". God is an amazing Father. He answered so much prayer about this problem over that last few days that I am amazed.
My sin is that I work very independently for a marketing/food broker. The climate in my job is that nobody really cares about what kind of job that they do or if they even do it. My boss especially!!
By the world's standards, it would look like I have more enthusiasm than anyone in my work unit. I know though, that some days I do not leave for work until 11 AM and that I do not accomplish what I am supposed to. I know that I would be embarrassed if other people saw what I did. So what about what God sees?
This job entails such a feat of self discipline that I am overwhelmed.
So, I feel like I have to be somewhat of a Daniel in this work arena. I have not been very successful at this. Just be the employee that God would have me be. Not compared to what my coworkers are doing, or only to the low standard that my boss sets because she does not do her job either.
(I know that this is long....)So...My boss told me she would be coming down from Seattle and wanted to work with me on Tuesday. She called me in the morning asked me to meet her for breakfast so we could talk.
She just poured out her heart about how she is so sick of what a lousy job that she has been doing and knows that all of us are hating our jobs and needed to be inspired to do a better one. She had some great ideas to help motivate us.
I have felt for awhile that I was not to hide my stumbling so I told her about the leaving at 11AM and she just said that is what everybody does too...which makes it even more diffficult for me, but the point is that I told her!
I have prayed that God would change my heart about the job and help me to do what He wants. God answers soooooo big sometimes and answers in ways that we would never expect. I have worked for this lady for almost four years and never thought that I would see this.
We talked again yesterday after the meeting and feel like we bonded like never before. She knew that I was committed to doing what is right.
Again, God just cementing relationships in preparation to share the gospel.
I appreciate your "listening" ear and concern. I am glad to say that God is at work, mightily!
Bless you sister!
Grace (Annette)
PS: I have prayed and will continue to pray about your Easter! I really commit to doing that between now and Easter evening.
Here is another amazing answer to prayer. My brother in law is coming to church with us on Sunday.
And....my daughter called lastnight to say that her fiance asked her if he could go to church with us!!!!! We have been agreeing in prayer for him about this with anyone who would pray with us for such a long time. God is at work!!!
Grace,
I am so glad I popped in over here. I must confess that I too was wondering how it went with Uncle Jerry....I am so happy for you. I agree with you, sometimes what WE think needs to be said or done is not what God wants us to do. So you listened to what He said and forged a relationship there (no strings). I believe God honors our prayers there. I've had some opportunities at the hospital with Lisa's family and felt exactly the same promptings. By showing Christ's love first without those lead balloons, consistently, we are sowing seeds for the gospel to make so much sense to them after they have seen our love in action.
Your spirit shines, Grace, and I so look forward to seeing you face to face in heaven dear lady!
Have a blessed Easter weekend
HE IS RISEN!
Oh Grace !! How wonderful it all worked out !! Tears of happiness came rolling down as I read your account of the lasy week and I'm so thrilled for all the blessings God is showering on you right now!!! Those heart blessings ARE overwhelming aren't they?! I also know EXACTLY what you mean about being the sceptic. Not that I don't KNOW that God can do ANYTHING, just wonder why He'd want to talk to me ?! I'm still learning though!!
Your uncle is so lucky to have you in his life!! My grandfather sounds very similar... accmulating wealth and recognition and now absorbed in hoe to dole it out... WHO CARES ???? You can't take it with you and all I want is to keep my fond memories and have a chance for my kids to make some with him too. He is starting to see that also... but it is a slow process. It's not the fame and fortune, it is truly the love we were able to show and the impression that it left... it's right there in the Bible... so although you didn't use any verbal scriptures , you were living the top 2 commandments that Jesus asked us to follow !!! Way to go girl !!!
I'll check in with you again... we are not going to church for Sunday service and I am sad.However, I plan to really read intently at sunrise and really listen for Him. The company is looking forward to a big breakfast and the 'easter bunny'.... I just happen to have a few kid bibles to throw into those baskets :) !!! It will be fun no matter what happens because I just have to love them in an attempt to show them how much I've been loved by Him!!! hugs to you -- jen
Hi Jen,
Thanks for your encouraging reply!! God's timing is perfect. All the people I prayed for to go to church with us last year did not come...but guess what? They are coming with us tomorrow!!
Father, in Jesus name I pray fot Jen and her family that You would pour out Your spirit of love and grace on each one of them. I ask that Jen would hear Your voice and abide in Your love.
Jen, I know that God will open doors for you tomorrow. He works in ways that we cannot possibly think of. Just show them His love.
Let me know how things go. God will get you to church another time. He has a perfect plan!
Annette
Grace -- thank you for the prayers... they are what got me through Sunday!! I was so excited to start the day, I read intently and was filled with joy and anticipation of all 7 kids opening easter baskets together. Well, I fell under attack. The company stayed downstairs for an extra 2 hours and I assumed that their babies had a rough night and all were tired. So I encouraged my 4 to be extra quiet and help me to get the house picked up for a special morning... and we would wait to do baskets. I even delayed getting breakfast going for concern of disturbing them as I went down the stairs to get things from the freezer to thaw. Well, when they finally came up...their kids announced that they had already opened their baskets and went into "all they had gotten".I was devastated.I know it was nothing important but I was heart broken that all the effort that I had invested this week leading up to this special day to be a 'family' had just been ruined.I held back the tears but my shock and disappointment were inescapable despite the smile I forced.The old me would have raged at their unkindness and selfishness....the new me hugged the wife and as I did I called her a "brat" and told her I loved her anyway. I explained how let down I felt and that my 4 had been waiting patiently to do this with them. It fell on deaf ears. She became defensive and after breakfast went and packed them all up to leave a full day early. I prayed and prayed ... I apologized for my reaction and said that I shouldn't have had such great expectations that they would want to be a family with ours.I repeated that I was wrong in my words and hoped that the rest of the visit would not be affected by my mess up.They left anyway.
I just wanted to have that extended family feeling with them... for me and for my kids since we don't have anyone to be with. I know all is in Christ but my heart ached. I kept reminding myself of what Jesus endured for me and that this was nothing in comparison. I turned on the TV in the late afternoon and found Hagee on. Part of his sermon really hit home... he said in order for there to be a resurrection, there had to be a cross. In order for there to be a purchase, there has to be a cost. I was going through this 'disappointment' and 'pain' because something big and wonderful is in His plan next... I'm clinging to that !!!! God knows best.There will be something positive from what brought those tears... I just have to hold on to the faith and cling to the hope of the 'wonder' that is soon to arrive.
The afternoon ended with much love in my immediate family despite the fact that my husband was also greatly affected by the drama of the morning and the hasty exit of our company. He realized how hard I tried to make it a wonderful week and how many slights I overlooked and continued to stick it out in kindness anyway.
God knows I did my best and although I failed in retalliating that morning I did try to right it and I did it sincerely.
So now a new day begins and the devil has already started to attack again... this time interfering in my marriage.My husband was so close this week, so supportive and now this am he has locked me out of the computer.I had to call to get in and it required him to create a whole new page for me to log on with. I told him I was sorry he felt the need to keep things private from me and that I didn't mean to invade his computer space.He was on the defensive... I don't know what is going on... other than the devil is really working on us.I'm praying for protection and for peace as I know the attacks won't work but may continue a while longer.Thanks for keeping me covered!! And for letting me babble on!! Love and hugs to you Annette!!!--- jen
Oh Jen,
I am so sorry to hear about all of this! First of all, I can totally understand that you would be upset!!! You do not give up your human emotions and reactions when you become a Christian. I think that your reaction was as Christlike as was to be expected in that circumstance.
That was very rude of them. You put alot of energy and heart into putting those baskets together. However...I think that when we come to know the Lord and want to live differently we forget that people in the world are truly unmotivated to live good lives. My husband (and me too at times) just marvel at his brother's selfishness with us.
My point being, you did all that you did to make an impact for God. He saw that. He looks at your heart, not at what happened. He knows we are but dust! If you feel like you did not react in a Christ like way then ask God's forgiveness and move on. Forget what is behind and press on.
I do not think that we are to be "doormats" for Christ. The word says to be angry, but do not sin. Do not let the sun go down on your wrath. In other words, if you need to seek forgiveness, then do. It already sounds like you did. You did not ask them to leave early. They decided to.
One of the hardest thing to really get is that God is in control. He is in control of every situation so we can fear disappointment less, we can fear the reaction of others less and less, knowing that He is in control.
Becoming Christlike is a process. Please, please do not get down on yourself. Jesus loves you so much this morning! If you get a chance read Psalm 91. It is so comforting.
If God gives you another opportunity to show kindness to them, do it. That is showing the love of Christ. Not holding a grudge. Being willing to reach out again even if someone has taken advantage of you.
I am not quite sure that I understand about your husband locking you out of the computer. Were you guys able to get it all worked out? Now you have your own sign in page? Maybe that is good.
Jen, my prayer is that you and your children would find a good bible believing church that has a good women's ministry. You really, really need the fellowship and guidance of some Christ following women. In person.
Do you live in a rural area or are you close in where you would have several places to try? If you decided to take the kids the church on Sunday and just leave the choice to hubby as whether to go would he be ok with that? I have found personally and have heard this from many others that that is what they did and their husbands eventually joined them. You leaave the decision up to him whether or not he goes.
It is a hard thing in a marriage when you have come out of partying as a lifestyle and all of a sudden they see such a change in you because it effects them! They do not have the same partner. Jen, my house used to be party central!
Slowly but surely we have moved away from that. I quit participating in the drinking but left my husband in God's hands. It was very hard sometimes because my hubby would drink alot in front of our kids (they are 16 and 21...the hard part is that they knew he was going to church with me.)
He has finally gotten to the place where he will acknowledge that it is not a good example to drink a ton around them. He had one beer with his brother yesterday is all.
I apologize for the sermon! My heart just breaks for you!
My points:
Do not beat yourself up about yesterday. Give your disappointments and expectations to God because He is in control.
Please, please look into getting into a good church (Baptist...some of them, Calvary Chapel, some community churches are good)and find some women to fellowship with and learn the bible with and seek God with. We need each other so much.
Jen, Jesus knew what you wanted for yesterday. He knew that you wanted Him to be glorified. You did that. You are a human being with very human emotions and reactions. It takes time. Some of us take a lifetime. Just keep giving Him your expectations. He is in control, so even if we cannot see what good can come out of it He does, so we never have to be disappointed.
Much love to you!!! Keep in touch and let me know how things are going. Read, pray, trust!!
Annette
with tears rolling, I thank you!! That was not a sermon... that was a sweet comforting response and I am so grateful that you understood where I was coming from.
I am not disappointed now.Now it just reaffirms how much I have been changed in Him.I'm not being proud or pious.I can honestly say that their eyes just aren't open ... yet!I pray that all I offered in order to show them His love will make them wonder as they travel on to visit the rest of their family on the East coast. They are non-believers also and I can only guess that it will not be easy traveling to these homes with 3 little ones and mant hours on the road.I look forward to extending kindness to them again.But next time I think I will do all the 'extras' for Him instead of trying to show them Him.That way there is NO room for let down... He will be my goal!
Thanks again and by the way... I'm going to my first Bible study tomorrow .It is starting with Luke 16.I can't wait!!!
As far as the hubby...I don't know either. I'm going to just stay in the word today and enjoy the quiet after all the kids are off to school ( except for my littlest--maybe he'll want to snuggle!).
I'll be praying for a productive work week for you and continued comraderie with your boss !!! Hugs --- jen
Thanks again for all the support concerning the Easter weekend!!!
You most definitely have my prayers for Jerry!!! Your kind spirit and gentle loving approach is going to speak volumes to him especially as your visits become more frequent!!
Let your light shine, Annette!!! Just keep loving Jerry and know that I will be praying for his heart to soften towards Jesus!!!
Love you !!! big hugs--- jen
Jen,
Thank you for your contageous enthusiasm and encouragement too. How did the bible study go?
Thank you sooooo much for your prayers for Jerry. I pray that God will be relentless with him and soften his heart and mind. I also pray for the boldness that I need to speak what God wants me to say.
God's Blessings to you Jen,
Annette
Annette -- So how's the task dedication going? And the relationship with the boss? I hope you are inspiring each other!!
Bible study was fantastic!!! The best part was that I was sitting in a room of about 12 people and they all loved the same thing as me!!! I liken it to when you have a baby...you know how everybody loves a new baby and you're so proud and excited to see them love that precious baby of yours as much as you do!!! That feeling!!I was truly with kindred spirits and even tough we didn't all see the verse as the same and come from a variety of perspectives due to the differences in age, it was amazing that in the end we all agreed that it is God's will and we are blessed because of what Jesus offered us!!! I think I almost floated out of that little building! Thanks for asking !!!
Have a super Wednesday! hugs-- jen
Hi Jen,
I am glad that bible study went well.
My job is such that you have to do it for the Lord and the Lord alone every minute. I do not have anyone around and I have to say that my boss does not seem as committed as I would like to see her be. It is my stuggle right now and I know that it is one of the methods that God is using to cause me to cling to Him.
Thank you so much for your prayers for my uncle. I am praying constantly that God would wrestle with him and get through to him.
I am going to call him this evening after I get home from work. Please pray that God gives me the wisdom to know what to say and the boldness to say it!
Marge, if you peek in here, how are you doing? Sure love you!
Much love to you Jen,
Annette
Annette --- I will pray for you to have words of wisdom sent directly to you from Him for Jerry. I will also pray that if the words aren't there that you will find comfort in knowing that the Lord is taking care of it all in His plan according to His will. I'm sure Jerry will find comfort in just the act of your calling him to check and see how he is doing! Prayers are with you and Jerry both!!! hugs -- jen
Annette --- How did the phone call go???
Let me know when you get a chance!!! hugs -- jen
Hi Jen,
Well, I called him about 7:45 and his wife answered the phone. She said that she was trying to put him to bed, that he was especially tired.
She told him it was me on the phone and asked if he had the strength to talk. He said no.
I told her I would try to call today. I have read and prayed all morning. I am so caught in a wrestling match. Everything in my flesh is afraid to "push" the door open but yet I know that this man is on his way to an eternity in hell.
I hate the fear of man. I want to fear God and do what is right in His eyes. I am so weak. If I am to do this, it will have to be God's doing. I am so afraid I will fail Him and my uncle.
If you happen to read this, please, please pray for me to say the right thing and that God would soften his hard, hard heart.
Much love to you Jen!!!
Annette
Grace,
As it happens I have the evening off :) And I was thinking about you, and your bad day at work, (the other day) and your Uncle.
First of all, don't blame yourself about venting. I've done the same thing :) Kept things under wraps, and then 'after' the event, allowed myself to vent, and sometimes, 'blow,' LOL. Unfortunately, it's all a part of the fallen nature of mankind. And some temperments aren't into starting anything, like a fight. And, that's what would have happened, if you'd have said, or done anything to the person that was being aggressive towards you.
(hey, the odds of that happening were VERY high :) But, hey, you've repented, and God doesn't hold anything against you, as you know.
There is an excellent 'tool' out there, in the form of a book, by Dr. Tim LaHaye, called, 'Why You Act the Way You Do,' or something close to that, LOL. I dunno, as I've probably bought a dozen, or so of those books, over the years, and given them away. It not only explains why you act the way you do, but it explains the 'bully' temperment. Was it EVER helpful to me, and a lot of others that have read it, too. Anyhow, just a thought along those lines.
Your uncle. You're praying for his salvation, and many others are as well. I know it's probably not what you want to hear, but sometimes, (after giving our witness) we have to lean upon the Holy Spirit to persuade people to come to a saving knowledge of Jesus. And the Holy Spirit came be there, when your uncle is tired, and others aren't allowed in, etc. Of course, still pray for discernement about seeing him, and such. But, there are times, when we've done all that we can do, humanly, to just pray, "gett'em Holy Spirit!" And also pray, that another Christian can speak to him. Perhaps a Nurse? Also, I believe that people often call upon the name of Jesus, in their last moments, here on earth. That isn't God's best plan for anyone......but it sure do beat going to hell!
Well, know that people are agreeing with you in prayer, for your uncle's salvation, and also that God answers prayer, and that prayer changes things!
I love you, my dear sister in the Lord, and ALSO a fellow Washingtonian :) God bless you richly is my prayer :)
Annette --- I'm so sorry to hear how tired Jerry was and that he wasn't up for a talk with you.I have to agree with Marge, we aren't meant to save anyone only to plant or water the seed. You have plnated, and have tried to water but now it is up to Him.The father at church today said we should give all our problems to Him, take it all off our plate and let Him cut right throughit inorder to solve it in the manner He finds most suitable. You have done what you can so far. Now offer yourself as a reasonable living sacrifice and give Jerry's decision for Christ to Him to fulfill in His time.
I'm truly seeing in my new walk that the less I try the more I gain. It's that my plan is never godly enough, I HAVE to let Him lead...we are just the physical body, He's doing all the work...if we let Him. I liken it to being a puppet (but that's my baby Christian view point I guess). So give Him your heart and your shell and let Him walk you through whatever conversation is yet to come... or not come.Jerry knows what you believe in, he knows who to call if he has questions.
Be in the peace of Jesus, sweet Annette. Just hold Jerry's hand if that's all that you're called to do.God loves you and He will take care of you and Jerry both. You are in my prayers!!!
much love and many hugs!! -- jen
Jen,
Thank you so much for your continued prayers and encouragement!
I called Jerry on Saturday but he was sleeping. I was thinking maybe he was avoiding me. I talked with Kelly, his wife for a couple of minutes.
My step mom came over lastnight and said that she was talking with his wife today and that all he is doing is sleeping and getting up for meals.
She (my step mom) said something interesting. Last week when she was talking with Jerry, he said that "I guess that people are preaching to me now. It is a little late isn't it? I don't want to have to go get baptized and all of that now."
That means that he is thinking about what I said to him and wrestling with it. It also means that he does not understand God's grace and what is required to be saved.
I pray that God gives him a desire to hear of His grace and he will want to know what he must do to be saved. *Sigh*...and then that God will give me the opportunity and courage to say it. I need a miracle Lord Jesus. For both him and me!
Because I had the conversation with my step mom (who is not saved), I was able to tell her that God does not give up on Jerry as long as he has breath. We talked about the thief on the cross and that Jesus gave him eternal life because the thief acknowledged that Jesus was the Son of God and BELIEVED that Jesus would be save him.
Of course she said that she did not think he was the type of person to go to hell..."I mean he has not killed anybody or anything." The enemy has people so deceived. But, God planted a seed.
Thanks so much for your prayers! You are right, we just need to be His voice, His arms and let Him do His work.
Much love,
Annette
Dear Grace,
Honey, I am quite sure that many, many people are praying for Jerry. And with much fervor as the hour is so late for him.
I wanted to ask you are you the only saved person he knows that might be seeing or talking to him now?
I've got it in my mind that you are, but I'm not sure that I know that.
Is he at home with hospice or in the hospital? I've been picturing him in my mind at home.
They are probably upping the morphine as he progresses towards the end also.
Have you thought about sending him a letter? You could explain as concise as you can about how to be saved.
Something like this.
"Uncle Jerry, I know that you told me that you are not interested in God or God talk. But, I love you Uncle Jerry and I have to keep trying as long as you have breath.
There is a God, Uncle Jerry, and He loves you. He sent His Son Jesus to die on the cross to pay the penalty for your sins, and mine and everyone who ever lived.
None of us earn salvation, it is a gift that God offers each and every one of us.
The only thing He asks of you is to receive His gift of salvation. It is yours, just for the asking. If it were possible, I'd ask for you, but God insists that you have to choose it for yourself.
Every person who spends eternity with God in heaven, will have gotten there the same way. Because they asked Him to save them. Not because of any other thing that they did or did not do.
For by grace are you saved, through faith, and that not of yourself, it is the gift of God.
Uncle Jerry, the only sin that sends anyone to hell is rejecting that free gift of salvation from the one who loved you enough to die for you.
I am praying that you will ask God to forgive you and ask Him to save you."
Everyone who has been giving you advice is right about not feeling badly at yourself if Jerry chooses to reject Christ. But, you must make sure that you have given him enough information to accept or reject the gift. It would be so great, if you could be there with him to lead him in the prayer of salvation. But, a note with the important information is better than nothing.
We love you and will continue to pray for you and Jerry.
And about that step mom of yours, what did you say to her when she said "it is not like he was a murderer, or whatever? Did you explain to her that the only sin that sends people to hell is the sin of rejecting the free gift of salvation? I hope so.
Put on your armour and be at peace.
Love you.
Dearest Child,
Thank you so much for responding to this.
As far as I know, I am the only saved person in his life. Who knows who God would bring to him though.
He is at home and the last I heard is that hospice is available to answer questions but are not on the premises.
I believe that it is his desire to stay at home and I do not think he is on morphine at this point.
I am going to call his wife in a bit to see how he is doing.
He lives about 75 miles away from me, but I would drop anything I was doing to come down to be with him if he asked.
Yes, I think that I will send him a card with a letter in it. I do not think he has strength enough to read at this point so when I call his wife today I will mention that I am sending it and ask her to read it to him.
I agree, I do not have peace because I do not believe that he has a good enough understanding of salvation to make a decision.
When I talked with my step mom we focused more on the fact that it is not whether you are a good person or bad person that determines who goes to heaven, but it depends on trusting in what Christ did for you on the cross. your point is definately one that I want to get across to her more firmly when I have opportunity.
Thank you for your prayers and advice. I am really asking God for His wisdom and insight to Jerry's thinking as to what to write.
I will let you know how things transpire.
Bless you!
Annette
Grace,
Caught your request on Joel's blog. Your uncle is in my prayers. As child said, you know there are probably many people praying for his salvation.
I know what a difficult time this is for you. I also know how burdened your heart is. Let the Holy Spirit guide you in what you should do and we will also lift you up that you are given the courage to say or do whatever He asks of you.
I love you, Annette. Keep us informed on Child's site if you have time o.k.?
I love you too Sue! Your love and giving to Lisa and her family has been such an inspiration to me!
Well, I just called Jerry and his wife was very polite but curt to me.
He was up and asked who was on the phone but did not ask to speak to me.
This really confirmed to me he has hardened his heart, at least toward me. His wife is very protective of him and acts like a barrier to anything he does not want to deal with.
I need God's guidance so much. I cannot shrink back because I feel rejected by them but I need great discernment to know when to just quietly leave it all up to God's intervention.
I need to go pray and read the Word and go with what God confirms in my heart.
I do know that there is a scripture that says that anyone who gives up "father, mother (or other family)" for Jesus' sake that He would return it to them many times over. His eternity is more important than how he feels about me.
I just need to know what God would have me do and then know that He will give me confidence to do it.
Thank you all for sharing this burden with me.
Annette
Grace,
I am kind of at a loss of words. I really don't know how to respond to your replies to me and to Sue.
I do want you to keep this is mind, please.
We have the revealed will of God is His Word. It is not his will that any perish, but all come to salvation through his son.
He has promised us that if we step out in faith to proclaim the gospel that the Holy Spirit will not maybe fill our mouths with His words.
You do need to have the Holy Spirit's leading perhaps to timing, but not to whether you should make the attempt.
All of the above is not to say that Jerry won't refuse after all your prayerful attempts. He may, but you will know in your heart that you did all He asked you to do.
I am praying that God will speak to your heart with His timing, and that you will gain the knowledge and the confidence that you need.
The fact that Jerry is dying makes this harder for you than sharing with a person who is not, you may be afraid that you will blow your last chance at leading him to the Lord. I'm going to pray that Jesus will remove those thoughts from you, if you have them. He said it is our responsibility to share, and the results of that sharing is His responsibility.
I hope I'm not making this harder for you. I'm only trying to help muster your faith and confidence in the Holy Spirit.
Why don't you try writing the letter and see if the Holy Spirit helps you pen the words.
You have a lot of prayer behind you little sister.
I love you.
Hello Child,
Thank you for your encouragement.
I am going to be totally honest here. I have taken this to the Lord many, many times through this trial.
I think I have prayed as much about my anxiety about sharing Christ with Jerry as I have about his salvation.
I have really had to look at which I am more concerned with. This is just laying my heart on the line.
Every time I call Jerry, I get the feeling that his wife does not want me to talk with him and I feel very rejected. She is quick to get me off the phone and does not offer to let me talk with him.
I talked with my dad tonite and he said that he talked with Jerry's wife for quite awhile today which tells me that she is willing to talk to him but not to me.
It just makes the thought trying to find a way to share Christ with a man who does not want to hear it even scarier.
I just have to put this in God's hands. I have asked Him to let me know in no uncertain terms where there is an open door and then to shove me through it by His spirit.
I so want to be faithful to God and to love Jerry with God's love. To care more about his salvation than my comfort. This has got to be a work of the Holy Spirit because this kind of boldness is not in me.
We came home from my daughter's choir perfomance tonite and I opened my bible to Psalm 27.
The LORD is my light and my salvation—
whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the stronghold of my life—
of whom shall I be afraid?
2 When evil men advance against me
to devour my flesh,
when my enemies and my foes attack me,
they will stumble and fall.
3 Though an army besiege me,
my heart will not fear;
though war break out against me,
even then will I be confident.
4 One thing I ask of the LORD,
this is what I seek:
that I may dwell in the house of the LORD
all the days of my life,
to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD
and to seek him in his temple.
5 For in the day of trouble
he will keep me safe in his dwelling;
he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle
and set me high upon a rock.
6 Then my head will be exalted
above the enemies who surround me;
at his tabernacle will I sacrifice with shouts of joy;
I will sing and make music to the LORD.
7 Hear my voice when I call, O LORD;
be merciful to me and answer me.
8 My heart says of you, "Seek his face!"
Your face, LORD, I will seek.
9 Do not hide your face from me,
do not turn your servant away in anger;
you have been my helper.
Do not reject me or forsake me,
O God my Savior.
10 Though my father and mother forsake me,
the LORD will receive me.
11 Teach me your way, O LORD;
lead me in a straight path
because of my oppressors.
12 Do not turn me over to the desire of my foes,
for false witnesses rise up against me,
breathing out violence.
13 I am still confident of this:
I will see the goodness of the LORD
in the land of the living.
14 Wait for the LORD;
be strong and take heart
and wait for the LORD.
I pray that you are feeling better Child! Did you get to the doctor today?
Much love to you too Big sister!
Annette
Grace,
I'm sorry, I've just had the chance to catch up on posts. I have my own mini-drama at home and a few of us sick.
Reading your posts on Joels blogs and at Child's and mine I see a brave heart who loves the Lord and really isn't afraid to "put things out there" although its cyberspace. I know that you have it in you to speak to your uncle in complete and utter love. Your words exude love and compassion. Everytime I read a post from you I cannot help but want to meet the lovely woman who writes these words.
I know you are afraid. But you do not need to be afraid. Your uncle is dying. You do not need to be afraid of his wife either. You come to them with the love that is in all of your posts, and you share with them why your heart is burdened and what your hope for Jerry is. As you said, it IS NOT TOO LATE IN THE GAME!!! It is not God's will that he does not find eternal life... so this prayer is already in God's will. Jerry knows that you love him, honey. He does. I know with my whole heart that that man knows you love him, and how hard this must be for you to care enough to step out in faith(and even awkwardness for you) to make sure he understands Christ's loving offer of salvation and eternal life.
Tell him about the cafe, Annette. Tell him about heaven...even if you have to tell him through tears. I promise you that initially your heart will be pounding so hard you will think everyone can hear it, but once you get started it will just flow....Tell him everything the Holy Spirit gives you and He will. Believe me He will. Know that you are girded in prayer. You are not doing this in Annette's power. You are doing this in Christ's power.
I was reading in Acts this week about the Holy Spirit being poured out in those days....Do you know Annette that it is just as true today as back then? Do it. Don't be afraid, fear is not from God.
Perhaps your fear is that you will not say what you know is on your heart before it is too late. Don't let your heart be troubled. You will have no regrets after you speak to him. And remember it is ultimately Jerry's decision. And he may not decide right then....but prayerfully he will decide before he takes his last breath.
I love you, Annette.
Grace,
You know, I wrote a letter once, to a follow worker, that was dying of cancer. She was a hard core Gal, that did things on her own, didn't believe that there was a God, and if there was a God, who cared, etc. You couldn't get close enough to her, to breath the name of Jesus, without her telling you that she didn't care, blah, blah, blah. Well, as child of the King mentioned, a letter is an option. At any rate, I knew the Holy Spirit was urging me to write the letter, and write it I did. I ended with, I realize you don't believe in God, etc., but what if you're wrong, (which I had told her, I believed in God, for many reasons, etc.) why don't you pray, that "if there is a God, reveal yourself to me." And be opened minded about it. Because this Gal was a believer in 'fair play.' Anyway, I have no idea what happened, as I never heard. However, my point is, (we're getting there, slowly but surely, LOL) was that when she did pass away, my friend, Mary (another Mary, not my friend at the Bakery) said, that well, I wonder if she read my letter. Your letter, I said? Yes, Mary said, that she felt led to write to her, as well. So, my reason for writting this, is to encourage you, to pray about writting a letter, with a card.
Anyhow, out of the mouth of two or more witnesses, right? There were two, in the one occassion, and now two for your Uncle, as after praying, I whole heartly agree with child of the King, to go ahead and write that letter.
I love you, and I know you'll hear from Heaven about what to do, in regards to your Uncle Jerry.
Remember that the joy of the Lord, is your strength, too :)
God's richest blessings to you, and yours!
Child, Sue, Marge,
Thank you so much for your heartfelt words. You just do not know how much I appreciate your prayers and advice.
I stopped by a Christian bookstore yesterday and found an incredible card. It was a very masculine looking card and had the perfect saying in it.
Along with that, inside on the left it had statements about how we know we can be forgiven, how we know we can have eternal life, how we can be assured that God loves us. Then, on the back of the card was the salvation message with scripture and a "prayer of assurance" which was basically a salvation prayer.
I just felt like this was one of God's answers. Jerry may see that as being a little more authoritative and not just my opinion. He may be more inclined to read a printed card than something hand written.
On the inside I wrote that his family most assuredy loves him and something to the effect that the God of this universe takes time out of his creation to touch one heart.
I pray that he will be compelled to read the whole thing. He certainly has alot of people praying for him and I am acutely aware that this is a spritual battle far apart from what I do or do not do.
I think he is very angry at me right now and may not let me come down to see him again. I came to the resolution yesterday that if God just wants me to go down there and opens the door that I would be willing just to go hold his hand for awhile if that is what God wants.
So, as you said Marge, I really feel like all of this was confirmation. Now that I think about it, I was talking with a friend yesterday and she suggested sending him a card too.
Thank you again so much. I love you and cherish you all beyond description.
We WILL meet someday...isn't that amazing?
Marge, I get up to the Tacoma area on occasion and would love to have some pre-cafe coffee with you when I do!
I will keep you all posted on what happens here.
May the Lord keep you and bless you and may you truly know the reality of His love today.
Grace
Annette --- So glad you found the right card! My computer has been down and I have been praying that you would find some peace in this situation with Jerry! Sure did miss everyone the past few days!
Yes, the Tech tragedy did hit home. I have several friends with kids that go to school there but thankfully all have been accounted for and are safe! It has made me really ache for all of those families and my thoughts keep going to " I hope they were all saved".
It has also prompted much discussion here at home with the hubby. So much that I can't go through it all but I do see God doing some serious work on him and on many others that I see frequently...it is as if God is being mentioned in almost every discussion that I am apart of these days and I'm notthe one bringing Him up... others are and are getting curious! Praise God! The less I try to "do" and control my life, the more He takes over and I love it!
You have done a good thing with Jerry and although you may feel shunned now, you never know who may be coming to ask you questions soon. They all know where you stand... in His light....and now they know when the questions start riddling them who they can ask for further guidance. I know I'm new at all of this and younger to boot but I have to tell you... I am so proud of you!!!Much love and many hugs!!! I hope to check in again soon if this computer keeps working!!! ---- jen
Hello Jen, Sue, Marge and Child,
I have not heard anything from Jerry. I just mailed the card late yesterday afternoon so he may not get it until tomorrow.
My dad said that he was going to go see him but I have not heard anything from him.
I will let you know. Thank you for all of your prayers. We have so many people praying for him. God is able to take care of all of this. I am really trying to listen to Him for direction.
Much love and gratitude for you all,
Annette
Grace,
Some Pre-Cafe time would be great!
(I'm just getting back to read some things on the computer :)
And Jen is right! People may shun you.......but it's often surprising, when they come back, to ask you about the Bible, prayer, salvation, etc.
Have a blessed weekend! And much love, too :)
Grace,
Just wanted to let you know that we are still praying for Jerry. I hope your Dad did get to see him.
How are you holding up? I looked for you today off and on, and I didn't see you.
I am also praying that God will keep you in perfect peace through this.
Love you.
Thank you Child, for your continuing prayers!!
I have been continuing to seek the Lord and pray for Jerry. I can truly say that I really did feel God's peace and His love for me yesterday, even in the middle of all of this.
I talked with my dad yesterday and he did go down to see Jerry on Tuesday. He said that he is so weak that he can hardly lift his own hand.
Hospice was coming yesterday to take him to the hospital to have another periocentisis. His wife has always taken him in the past, so that tells me that he cannot even walk.
My dad (without prompting) again said that Jerry specifically said that he does not want anybody doing any "religious mumbo-jumbo" over him. Then went on to talk about Jerry's "atheism".
God is bigger than any interruption from Jerry's wife, He is bigger than any objection that my dad can tell me about and He is bigger than Jerry's hard heart.
I can pray, I can extend myself to him to show God's love and then I have to leave it in God's arms.
I am going to call a little later this morning. Unless the Lord intervenes I may be met with a cold shoulder and not be allowed to talk with him. I put that is God's arms too.
In all of this, when I was talking to my dad yesterday, I was able to slip in a the statement that people do not get to heaven by being good, that we get there because of what Christ did for us. I would have loved to have gone through the whole salvation message, but this was a seed planted.
My family is totally unchurched. As far as I know they do not understand salvation. I am the only christian aside from my cousin who is Catholic, but I believe from talking with her that she is saved.
Well, I have gone on long enough. I so appreciate the fellowship and prayer support from all of you!
Much love,
Grace
Annette -- Had to stop by and say "HI!!" . I pray for you and hope that you are at peace with all that you offered Jerry. Now I also hope that you are able to enjoy some beautiful weather!!
I'll check in again later !! Hugs for today! --- jen
Grace,
I love you, my sister!
Keep fighting the GOOD fight of Faith, as well! Realize it is a fight, but a 'good' fight :) And remember, Jesus said, "Be of Good Cheer, because I have overcome the World."
I'm standing in Faith with you, for your Uncle's (Jerry) Salavaton. And I'm also praying that God sends another Believer into your Uncle's life, to witness to him, as well. Perhaps a Christian Nurse, or Doctor? As long as there is life......there's hope for his Salavation!
I love you, and God bless you, and keep you, in God's perfect peace :)
Grace,
Just wanted you to know that I'm thinking about you.
We're still praying.
Love you.
Thank you so much Child!
I talked with Jerry's wife yesterday. He is getting weaker all of the time but "is hanging in there".
Since this is not cancer, he is not in pain. It is liver failure so he just continues to get weaker and weaker. I am grateful that he is not in pain.
I so appreciate your continued prayer for him.
I will keep you updated.
Much love,
Grace
Grace,
Just checking in, and seeing how everything is, with you, and also your uncle.
I love you, and God bless you, and yours!
And I'm still agreeing, in prayer, that your uncle comes into a full saving knowledge of Christ Jesus.
Where there is life......there's still hope :)
Hello Marge, Child, Jen and all,
Just checking in real quickly. I try to read Joel's blog every day and just do not want to comment so much of the time.
Jerry went in to have a tube put in so he can just go to the clinic to have the periocenticis done. That was yesterday. God is sustaining him and as long as he has breath there is opportunity for him to accept Christ.
I just keep praying!
Much love to all,
Grace
Grace,
That's the truth! Where there is life, there's hope. And we'll continue to pray for your Uncle Jerry's salavation, too!
Love you, and God bless!
Grace,
Marge said you had posted today, so I finally found one of your posts to click on, and here I am.
Wanted you to know that we are still fervently praying for you and Jerry and his wife.
And, we miss you a lot.
Love you.
Marge and Child,
Thank you so much for the encouragement and prayer!!
I am praying that God will speak to Jerry even in his sleep. That God would bring people and circumstances his way that speak to him only how the Holy Spirit can. I am also praying that God will give me direction and opportunity if I am to go see him again.
I love you all so much!
Grace
Grace,
Thank you for your prayers....I just wanted you to know that even though you may not post on Joel's site too often you are still not far from my thoughts and prayers.
And I agree as long as Jerry still as breath, there is hope and a whole lot of prayers going up for his salvation!
Love you
Grace,
Thanks so much for thinking of me and praying for me. I'm doing alright but still have pain in my left leg for unexplained reasons.
Also, I think I posted a few months ago that I was doing a bible study for girls in a treatment facility. Since I posted, it has really gotten bad. The other "believer" I've been working with is not really walking with the Lord and making it impossible for me to continue in the ministry. She asked me to hold her accountable, and now only wants to hear what her itching ears want to hear. This Saturday will be my last week there. I love the girls and don't want the enemy to get the upper hand, but this other woman is not allowing me to continue because she doesn't want to work with me. Amazing what people are doing who claim to be believers but it seems the truth is not in them. I have been praying and praying for her. I know the Lord will find somewhere else for me to minister, but it's hard.
I'm supposed to do a month of physical therapy for my leg, though they have no idea what's going on, and I feel it's a wild goose chase that's going to cost a lot of money. Please continue to pray that the Lord would be the great Physician and would be the only healing I need.
Thanks for checking in on me and praying for me, it's wonderful that I can have a sister who I feel akin to that I've never met, and feel so distant from others who I see all the time. There is fellowship in the Spirit no matter how.
Your Sister in Christ,
Kacey
Grace,
I'm so sorry that your Uncle Jerry passed away, without the knowledge of his salvation, one way or another. But God knows your heart, and your intent was one of love and compassion for your uncle, right up until the end. However, we can still pray for the remaining unsaved family, for their salvation. Especially in this time of loss, there will be fertile ground to plant many seeds :)
Love you much, and God bless you, and yours, too!
Kacey,
I'll agree with you, in prayer, that your leg is healed, by the touch of the Master :) Dr. Jesus!
Grace --- Oh, how I have had you on my heart !!! I am so sorry to hear of Jerry's passing and I hope that he had found the truth . You were the one heavy on my heart though and not really Jerry. I hope you know how loved you are by all of us and most of all by the One who chose to bring you back into the family!!! I praise God that you and I will meet someday soon!!! Be strong in Him and know that the Lord is never far!!!! You are special and loved and a blessed friend in Christ !!! Hugs to you , Annette!!! -- jen
Kacey,
Prayer is going up right now for your leg.
I do not think that there is anything more discouraging than dealing with a believer who is apathetic or uncommitted. I will join you in praying for this person. What is going on with the girls in the facility? Are they still open to you? Bless you for your heartfelt efforts for them. God will use everything we give to Him.
I will be praying that God will make whatever steps are next very clear to you. Even if that is just to trust Him that He has it in control.
Keep writing and posting! I love your blog. It is encouraging, truthful and charming!!
Much love,
Grace
Marge!!
I just have to let you know how much I enjoy reading your posts at Child's blog and on Joel's and wherever else I am catching them!! You are a delight and I love you so much!
Thank you for your encouragement about Jerry. I know I prayed, and I prayed that God would wrestle with him.
From the things my dad tells me, he was a headstrong athiest. How can anyone say that they are an athiest? No one can continue to be an athiest when they have an encounter with the Living God. That is what I prayed God would do. I will not know until eternity.
My dad is really having a crisis over this. Jerry was only 2 1/2 years older than my dad. I got to share some of the plan of salvation with my dad lastnight on the phone. That has never happened until all of this with Jerry.
Would you join me in praying that my dad would understand what salvation is and accept the Lord? I know that God has been working toward this time all my dad's life.
Much love to you and I am serious about that pre-cafe coffee. I will let you know the next time the opportunity comes up for me to go up there!
Grace
Jen, I apologize for the delay in my reply. I'm working on a project and it was this morning or not at all!
Thank you so much for praying for me. Ya know, it is really strange but I have had sooooo many people tell me that they have felt burdened to pray for me. Child of the King included.
I have been struggling with a problem in my life and I can honestly say that I finally feel like I have had a bit of a breakthrough about it this week. I have been seeking God like never before, I can tell you that!
I am amazed at how God is opening doors to tell my dad about salvation through all of this with Jerry. I know that I prayed so much for Jerry and shared as much as he would listen to (which was not alot)and that the rest is in God's hands.
You are such a blessing to all of us.
Much, much love,
Grace
Grace,
Of course, I'll agree with you, in prayer, about your Dad accepting God's gift of Salvation :) Your Dad is on some very fertile ground right now, and I'm sure he's just one breath away from accepting Jesus, as his Savior and Lord, too!
Sounds good to me! I'd love to see you :)
God's very best to you! and have a blessed Mother's Day, as well :)
Grace,
Thank you dear sister for the lovely post,,,I really don't see what I said that could have had any impact on 'D'. I was dead serious tho....My grampa was a real reprobate!....But I loved him fiercely and tried sooooo hard to win him for the kingdom... we found him dead 3 days before my oldest daughter was born. So I really am hoping to see that he and Jerry made those decisions for Jesus before the end!
He loved me fiercely too!
You are something special Grace and I love you dearly!
Boy, time sure does FLY!!!! I have been kepping you in my prayers and smile throughout the day as you come to mind!! I miss all my "God-friends" when I can't check in on the computer!! But life is so good right now and God is blessing me in bucket loads!!! The kids are a blast and the weather has been beautiful!! The garden was planted 2 weeks ago and God has taken over...it is growing like crazy! It is such a wonder ...all that He takes care of!
Wanted to check in and let you know I love you and pray your job is going well...and that your new prayer desk is wotking out just great!Take care! Hugs ---jen
Grace,
Just wanted to let you know that I miss you and am thinking about you.
I hope things are going well with you.
Keep on keeping on, keeping your eyes on the sky and listening for His shout.
Love you.
Grace,
Hi there! I've missed seeing you, on Joel's Blog, and also at, child of the King's Blog. How have you been? Busy, I'll bet, what with summer almost here, for real, LOL. (WA. weather, at the first part of June, eh?)
Check in, and say, hello, okay?
Love you a lot, and God's richest blessings upon you, and your family, too!
Hi Marge,
I left a reply on your blog, so be sure to check it!
Grace
Grace --- I'm sure the Lord will reveal exactly what your dream was supposed to mean to you soon.... but first I have to tell you what it meant to me!
I mentioned awhile ago at Child's that I've been feeling the strain of daily life and "monotony" I guess. The whole husband thing, you know what I mean. And through my prayers I keep hearing "just do it". So I've taken it to mean ... stop complaining and just do the hard work...whether I like, whether I'm acknowledged, whether hubby pitches in or not.... just do it!! Stop trying to reason and justify and compromise my way out of each situation. Live righteously in my full armor and keep Jesus leading my heart... just do it! And your dream confirms why!!!
It isn't easy... it is hard and I do feel like I'm just barely hanging on some days to what is His solid ground! The evil out there is trying to swallow me up but I HAVE to just do it... fight the good fight......because look where it leads!!! Higher ground...stable and secure in Him...victorious in His strength.... saved and loved for all eternity.... with HIM!!!! Oh, that is what we are fighting for !!!
So thank you, Annette for the jolt of joy and a purpose that I can see for today!!! Not only faith in the end result but your dream gave me a visual picture to say no to a glass of wine with dinner, to pray for patience with the kids, and to stick to my chores here at home for my hubby.
So happy to see you at Joel's and can't wait to meet you in the sky.... hopefully soon!!hugs -- jen
Grace;
The Shalom and Joy of Christ Jesus be with you!
This is in regards to the dream you posted on Joel's blogsite. I asked permission to post my interpretation first because dreams are personal things, and Joel's blog is by nature a public forum. You may also wish to go through your own personal process of interpretation. It would not be right for me to just launch into an interpretation here without your permission.
In your letter, you tie together this dream of a cliff with your insights into Christian apathy: How do you do life and not get sucked into a life of your own ambition, selfishness and comfort when that is all around you? I have just started to pray against the apathy. You then start describing your dream: I was hanging onto what looked like the edge of a cliff.
To me, the cliff would mean your own struggle against being sucked into and falling into Christian apathy. I remember fighting like mad to pull myself up onto solid ground. I was thinking that I really had no strength and that I had never done such hard work in my life. You recognize within yourself the desire to just accept that you are a born-again Christian and that nothing more is required of you. Yet in that desire lies the abyss of Christian apathy -- I am born-again, once saved, and it doesn't matter what else I do in this life, I will be raptured into Heaven. It would be so easy to "let go and let God," but while this desire has its place, this is not the place for it. This is a spiritual struggle, to pull yourself away from the abyss and onto the solid ground of Christ Jesus. It is not a safe place to be at the top of a cliff -- the wind could blow you over, you could slip and fall -- but for now you are standing on solid rock, and in your heart you know who to praise and thank for the rock. As you give thanks and praise, you are joined by all the others who have struggled and still struggle on top of that rock, and you know you are not alone.
It's also interesting to me that in this dream, you are not rescued by any supernatural agency. You are choosing to climb, and you are doing the climb yourself. You aren't lifted up by angels, a giant hand doesn't swoop down to save you, you don't feel a giant surge of strength propelling you to the top. Instead, you do the climb yourself, with the gifts G_D has already given you. You feel that you "really had no strength", when in fact, G_D has already given you all the strength you need. It feels hard because He has given you ONLY the strength you need. We would always like to have more than we need "just in case", yet by giving you only the strength you need, you must then trust in Him that He HAS given you all you need, rather than trusting in your own strengths.
Your friends, the ones who have let go, whose "idea of fellowship is a potluck," they can still make the climb, but they will need to choose to do so. They will need to choose to swoop to the cliff wall to grab hold, and that's dangerous. They could smash into it and get hurt, and they'll have a much longer and harder climb. Yet it's not impossible, and you need to use your position at the top of the cliff to call down encouragement to them, and be part of the choir when they do make it to the top.
Hope this helps.
><>
Hi Jen,
Yep,,,,,I could not agree with your intepretation more.
I have been struggling with a particular area of my life and it is such hard work to do it.
It is hard work to follow and be in fellowship with Jesus. It is. We truly do have to deny ourselves to stay in that fellowship.
I see myself vasilating lately. I just do not feel the drive to walk with the Lord over the last couple of weeks and it is scaring the daylights out of me.
All I can do it go to Him and ask for the strength for the victory and be obedient in what He tells me to do.
I read this, this morning:
Psalm 103
1 Praise the LORD, O my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
2 Praise the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits-
3 who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
4 who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
5 who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
6 The LORD works righteousness
and justice for all the oppressed.
7 He made known his ways to Moses,
his deeds to the people of Israel:
8 The LORD is compassionate and gracious,
slow to anger, abounding in love.
9 He will not always accuse,
nor will he harbor his anger forever;
10 he does not treat us as our sins deserve
or repay us according to our iniquities.
11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
so great is his love for those who fear him;
12 as far as the east is from the west,
so far has he removed our transgressions from us.
13 As a father has compassion on his children,
so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him;
14 for he knows how we are formed,
he remembers that we are dust.
15 As for man, his days are like grass,
he flourishes like a flower of the field;
16 the wind blows over it and it is gone,
and its place remembers it no more.
17 But from everlasting to everlasting
the LORD's love is with those who fear him,
and his righteousness with their children's children-
18 with those who keep his covenant
and remember to obey his precepts.
19 The LORD has established his throne in heaven,
and his kingdom rules over all.
20 Praise the LORD, you his angels,
you mighty ones who do his bidding,
who obey his word.
21 Praise the LORD, all his heavenly hosts,
you his servants who do his will.
22 Praise the LORD, all his works
everywhere in his dominion.
Praise the LORD, O my soul.
I am so glad that sharing my dream confirmed what you have been experiencing. Keep fighting the good fight. You are such a blessing. I can hardly wait to meet you too!
Much, much love in Christ,
Grace
Ok Grace --- you are RIGHT where I was about a week ago ... so here's some advice! When I felt like I just wasn't winning...like I was such a poor example of Christian living (which I am but thankfully the Spirit is taking over more and more).... well I went and printed out the segment at Child's titled "the 2 natures" , at least I think it is close to that. I read straight thru it ( don't tell Child, she doesn't like me to skip ahead and give in to my impatience :). Well, I cried my way thru each page because it was EXACTLY what I (and now you) was going through. Try it ... go read it ... and really listen and pray for the Sp[irit to let you know what you need to be doing.... you WILL get answers!!
I've never met you Annette but I love you dearly! Can you imagine how much He loves you? He made you! He knows the struggle, the feeling of helplessness, the wondering if we'll ever get it right!!! The best part is He only wants your repentance, your praise, and your giving in so He can get YOU out of the way and get HIS work done!!! Stay in prayer girl!!! Go read that segment Child has on her site and know that it does get soooo much easier when we stop fighting to keep ourselves in front and FINALLY let Him lead!! hugs --- jen
One more quick thought .... I either heard someone mention this once or read it but I hang on to the idea that when I feel far from God that I can do a few things to keep me focused....first I pray as much as I can, giving thanks for every little thing right down to the toilet paper and nail clippers! And then I remember that without a night time I couldn't appreciate the day light and He does promise that He will never leave nor forsake you... so hang on through this seemingly dark time and look forward to when the light shines, when the Son is obviously with you!!! You will be lifted up again!!! So keep fighting ... trudge along if you have to!! But keep looking up ( that's where your aim is...) just like in your dream!!! love ya' -- jen
Grace,
You gave yourself the answer tro your dream in your last post..
1 Praise the LORD, O my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
2 Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits-
3 who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases,
4 who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion,
5 who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
It's ALL about praising God. Praise releases power in the Spirit realm - Satan hates it.
Note in v5 above that praise renews your youth (and strength!!).
When things seem tough, put on some praise music, and sing your heart out to the Lord. Then you will be obeying the scripture:
7 Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. (James 4:7) [NKJV]
Keep on keeping on!!
John
Jen, John and Jim,
Thank you so much for taking the time to encourage me.
Well, I do agree on many points from all three of you.
My heart goes out to you Jen, I can identify with the struggle. I have read through Child's study but need to do it again. I will make it my bedtime reading tonite. I know that the study was very practical.
Jim,
You said, "To me, the cliff would mean your own struggle against being sucked into and falling into Christian apathy. I remember fighting like mad to pull myself up onto solid ground. I was thinking that I really had no strength and that I had never done such hard work in my life.
You recognize within yourself the desire to just accept that you are a born-again Christian and that nothing more is required of you. Yet in that desire lies the abyss of Christian apathy -- I am born-again, once saved, and it doesn't matter what else I do in this life, I will be raptured into Heaven.
It would be so easy to "let go and let God," but while this desire has its place, this is not the place for it. This is a spiritual struggle, to pull yourself away from the abyss and onto the solid ground of Christ Jesus."
....I have never been able to just rest in my salvation because I am always looking at my failures. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that my salvation has to be because of the price that Jesus paid or I would never "get in".
John,
I agree about the praise and that I answered my own question!! I read that Psalm in prep for a bible study I am going to next week and I so felt that was the Lord speaking to me...and this...4) "who redeems your life FROM THE PIT and crowns you with love and compassion...reminded me of the cliff in my dream.
Also want to let you know that I appreciate your insightful posts on Joel's. I look forward to meeting you some day! Maybe sooner than we think!
Much love to you all,
Grace
grace --- keeping you at the top of my prayer list in the morning and throughout the day!! Praying that God keeps you close, covered in His love, hidden in His wings, held up by His hands, calmed by His peace!
I wanted to share a conversation I had recently with a Christian friend of mine. We both some months ago commented to on another that we really wanted to be "used" for His purpose soon. Like REALLY do something to show how grateful we are for Christ's sacrifice. Whatever it would take.No matter how big a deal it was.
Well it hit us both like a ton of bricks that He has already given the task .... it is the one or two things that we struggle with everyday... that's what we are supposed to be doing to honor Him. So look at your current struggle as a chance to say "Yep! I'm a Christian soldier and proud of it! And I'm going to win this battle with the help of Jesus through the Spirit and it will be my chance to show how grateful I am". He's not asking us to be martyrs! Just aim to be victors in the struggle right in front of us.
And remember none of us are good enough... we can't do anything without Him. So you are never too far from Him... if it's hard to walk WITH Him, step back and let Him LEAD!!! In our weakness is His perfect strength!!!
lots of love and hugs---- jen
Grace,
I left a few messages, on my Blog.
And it says, in a 'nutshell,' that "we labour to enter into the rest that God has promised to His people." Quite possibly the reason for your recent dream.
Love you much!
Grace,
I couldn't help myself, as I had to be your 100th person, to comment, LOL. (I'm easily amused, hee, hee!)
Grace,
I had to hop over here, and say, hello!
At Wilma's, you asked, how do you stay in constant submission to the Holy Spirit, I believe. Easy. It's an act of the will. Each and every day, it's a choice you make. And not that I'm perfect, at all! But, I can agree with Paul, "that when I am weak,......then I am strong."
And it also involves Lordship. God has to be placed (in my opinion) each day, Lord over your life. The more of your life, you give to Him, the more you'll become strong in those areas :)
It's kinda like an illustration I heard once. And it goes like this :
If the devil comes knocking at your door,......send Jesus to answer the door! I love it! After all, after you're saved, you have the Holy Spirit living in you, right? Well, send HIM to answer the door of your heart. And often it's not even the evil one. It's the deceitfulness of living in a fallen world, your flesh, at times, etc. Just remember,......if He's not Lord of everything, then He's not Lord at all. (at least of that one situation, etc.) However, God is a God of love, and He knows your heart. So, don't be too hard on yourself. Just give it up. Jesus wasn't kidding, when He said, that His burden was light!
At any rate, I hope this helps a little bit. Hey, we ALL have times of testing. And there are days that I feel pretty 'out of it,' to this day. But, when those times come? I say, Oh Father, I NEED you, and your power today, ......and then 'the greater one,' rises up within me! Because when I am weak? He IS strong!
Grace, I love you, my dear little sister! And I'll be praying for you, that God shows Himself strong in your life.
Maybe because I was a weak personality, it was easier to just give Him everything. I KNOW I got the best of the deal :) Amen, and bless His Holy name!
Grace,
Hi lovely lady! I just got back from Ft. Smith and boy did I enjoy the people. Kids are shopping with Mom and Dad for the beginning of school here and they are all so cute and excited. I feel so sorry for the parents because the price of things has just skyrocketed. This is when I am glad to be a great grandma and a spectator to boot.
I read Marge's comments and I agree wholeheartedly with her. If we don't take control of our emotions then our emotions will control us. Not only that but everything gets out of balance and chaos follows. Before I get up every morning, I start the day off thanking God that he is taking me where he wants me, protecting me on the way, giving me the wisdom to handle every situation and the maturity to be rejected at any time. I ask him to surround me with his heavenly host and keep fear and unbelief out of my thoughts. Then I put on my armour and then I praise him for all that he has done, will do and is doing. I love my praise music and it goes on as soon as my alarm clock sounds (my computer is programed that way) and the day is off and running.
Every time I get out of my pattern I get in trouble. Just like taking the medications for the tick bite. I am terribly allergic to just about everything and the fear of that just takes over if I am not careful. What I should have done is called on the Lord to remove the fear, heal the bite, and get me over this situation. I didn't do it and I am still disgusted with myself over it. I will know better the next time and believe me, I won't forget.
Lesson learned the hard way. The longer I wait to get to the Lord for anything the bigger the problem becomes.
I have to stay renewed in my mind and Spirit daily, hourly, by the minute and second. Remember Grace, the enemy of your soul has been doing this type of deed for many, many centuries and God kicked him out of Heaven because of it. If God didn't let him stay around to infect everyone, why should we when we are much weaker and prone to sin!
Let God in, completely and permanently to take every care and weakness out. If what you are holding onto is causing you so much misery then it is not of God. You know, Marge is right about getting to your weakest point and giving in. We all have to do that and my weak spot may not be your weakest spot but the sooner I call out for him to set me free the sooner I can get back to him in complete freedom and power. The power to overcome is still there, even if and when we don't think so. It isn't a formula or a doctrine. It is a relationship and God is the one who stated it with you by the Holy Spirit. He is the one Jesus promised us to be our comforter, guide, counselor and ever present help in times of trouble. Call out to him and let him do the rest.
I love you and you are going to be fine and glorious. Why don't you join Marge and I in singing with Vestal Goodman, "if it wasn't for the Lighthouse, where would this ship be......"
I am praying you sis and I know that God is hearing us all!
Shalom
Wilma
Hello Wilma,
As I read your post I thought about what it is that tortures me about all of this. I am afraid, always, that I will be rejected by the Lord because I fall short so much of the time.
I do not do my job as I should and I am not always honest about it. Since I am accountable basically only to myself for it (which is a bad way to run a company) this is truly just between me and the Lord. When I blow it I confess and gather myself up and try again. It gets very weary-making (if there is such a word...)
I am printing out your post to remind myself of this:
"I have to stay renewed in my mind and Spirit daily, hourly, by the minute and second. Remember Grace, the enemy of your soul has been doing this type of deed for many, many centuries and God kicked him out of Heaven because of it. If God didn't let him stay around to infect everyone, why should we when we are much weaker and prone to sin!
Let God in, completely and permanently to take every care and weakness out. If what you are holding onto is causing you so much misery then it is not of God. You know, Marge is right about getting to your weakest point and giving in. We all have to do that and my weak spot may not be your weakest spot but the sooner I call out for him to set me free the sooner I can get back to him in complete freedom and power. The power to overcome is still there, even if and when we don't think so. It isn't a formula or a doctrine. It is a relationship and God is the one who stated it with you by the Holy Spirit. He is the one Jesus promised us to be our comforter, guide, counselor and ever present help in times of trouble. Call out to him and let him do the rest."
I am finally getting it that God is not asking me to prove MYSELF strong, but is asking me to come to him openly, just as I am, and TRUST AND LEAN on Him to get me through the situation with strength, then give Him glory for the victory. Your statement summed it up so very well.
Thank you so much for your kindness!
Grace
Grace,
I only wrote what the Holy Spirit impressed me to tell you. I can't take credit for it and even as I read it, I know he authored it.
I have had to follow that same advice and it isn't always easy to do. I still have to. You will be fine and I am praying that God just open all of the doors that need opening, close all of the ones that are detrimental to your walk with Him, and open the windows of blessings to flow freely.
I just feel I have to repeat this. You Will Be Fine! God hears your hearts cry and he wants the best for you.
Love you Grace and just enjoy that beautiful state of Washington for me.
Shalom
Wilma
Grace,
How have you been doing the last week, or so? I know you are getting close to your daughter's Wedding, and THAT is a LOT of extra stress, although in a good sorta way :)
Job getting any better, or 'just hanging in there?'
Mike's surgery was a success, as I believe you've read about, at child of the King's Blog, right? He still has a swollen tongue, but the swelling is going down, a little bit. However, I know it's frustrating him quite a lot :(
Well, enjoy the Wedding planning as much as is possible, and God's best to you, and yours, too! Much love, as well!
Hello Marge,
Yes, I have been reading about Mike's recovery on Wilma and Child's blog. Also been reading about the yard and popcorn miss-adventures!! LOL!! You soooo make me smile! I will most definately be praying for you both!
The wedding is less than 2 weeks away. We still have some last minute things to take care of and we are getting the house and guest room ready for my mom to come up.
As I said on Wilma's I really feel the Lord comforting me about how my salvation is secure in him. That is what I have needed. I really appreciate you sharing your stuggles and turning things over to the Lord. It helped me so much!
Things are getting so tense out there and this country is not going in the right direction in any way. The letter to the President from the evangelicals just blew my mind. God protect us and our families!
I can hardly wait to meet you my dear! It may be sooner than we think. I just want my kids saved.....
Love you!
Grace
Grace,
I agree, the Rapture is closer, than 'when we first believed.'
Let us know how the Wedding goes, and do your best to enjoy it, too :) I know, lots and lots of things to get done, etc.
Thanks for all your love, concern and prayers, too!
Love you, and God's richest blessing upon you, and yours!
Grace,
I do know what will clear up that cold sore. My oldest daughter suffered horribly from them also and tried everything. Finally her internist prescribed a drug called FAMVIR and it works quickly and effectively. He now gives her a good supply to keep in hand for those 'moments'. She usually takes one pill for 3 days and she's cleared up. I'll be praying too!
Keep us posteed
Hi Grace,
Just read about your daughter's cold sores...I've suffered from them, too, in the past, esp. when the stress level is high. If nothing works in time, perhaps knowing that digital photos can be "fixed" to eliminate blemishes will relieve some of her anxiety. I'm a complete amateur in terms of photography, but I often Photoshop away double chins, pimples and the like from my personal photos these days. I've even been known to insert different faces on our children when one isn't smiling for the group photo! I'll be praying for healing, however, as I know that it's not only a vanity issue, but also a painful condition to wait out.
Blessings,
Jen
Hello Forgiven Daughter and jen!
Sue, I called her this morning and told her about Famvir. She had already picked up her RX and I do not remember what it was called. Her cold sore was sooooooooo much better and she had just a wonderfully blessed day!
I will keep this RX in mind for next time. Child had mentioned her getting a smallpox shot and that may be somthing that she will do in the future....especially since she landed a great job with benefits today! *See Joel's blog*
Jen,
I would love to learn photoshop. I do not have it on my computer but would be interested to know how much it is. I do alot of photos for things I sell on ebay and would love to learn how to do some artsy stuff. I love the "face change" LOL!
Thank you for caring and praying my sweet friends!
Grace
Grace,
I just wanted to stop by and say, that I'm agreeing with you, in prayer, concerning healing for hour husband's heart problems, whatever they may be.
Also 'Happy Wedding,' as it's just a few days away now :)
I do know that God can do anything to bring about salvation in a person's life. However, it's Scriptural to pray, Matt. 9: 38, too.
In fact, I like how the Amplified phrases that verse.
"So pray to the Lord of the harvest to force out and thrust laborers into His harvest."
Anyway, I've seen some awesome answers to prayer, by praying the 'prayer of agreement,' with someone, to have another Christian show up in their life, as 'one that laborers in His harvest.'
I love you, and may God's richest blessings be upon you, and your family!
And let us know how everything goes, too, okay?
correction: that's
your husband
Grace,
Happy Weddding Day, for your daughter! Today is the day!
Love you, and may God's richest blessings be upon the Wedding, and everyone that attends today/evening.
Have an enjoyable day/evening!
Marge, thank you so much for the well wishes!!
Ahhhhh...it is done. They are on their honeymoon and my mom is on her way home to California.
I posted a prelim pic as you can see. Our youngest daughter is the one with the dark hair to the far right.
I will post more when the professional pics come back. I did not get any of the wedding or the reception cuz I was too busy!
Much love,
Grace
Grace,
What beautiful daughters you have! My goodness, and a lovely Wedding party, too!
I believe you are one tired Mom, right about now! But, everything went well, and the newly wed couple are on their Honeymoon :) So now, you are free to breath a little easier, right?
Many thanks for posting the picture, too! Judy was commenting just today, at, a child of the King's Blog, that she was waiting to hear from you, and to see pictures :) And oh, you HAVE to go to Judy's Blog, and see her neat pictures, that she made. They're way cool!
I just got in from mowing my lawn, and washing Mike's car. So, I'm tuckered out for the moment. But, I'm glad I am, or I wouldn't have gone looking at Joel's again, and around, etc.
Well, get some rest, and let us know how you are doing, okay? We've all missed hearing from you, but we've understood the reason.
Love you, and God's richest blessings upon you, and your entire family!
Hi Grace,
I thought I would surprise you and come see the low down on the wedding. What beautiful ladies you have captured and not a "cold sore" in sight. Praise the Lord!
I am so glad that you shared the picture with us all. There is so much violence in the world and we need physical evidence of the beauty and love to balance it all out. I really was blessed by the photo and I know that you are relieved that it is all over and daughter is now on a new phase of her life. Just think of the wonderful memories you have in your heart now.
My grand daughter, Carie, is getting married next June and she is so independent in planning for the big event. She doesn't want anyone else doing the plans, making arrangements or anything else because she doesn't want to be a burden. I had so looked forward to helping her and even designing with her the wedding gown and then making it for her. After I was divorced in 1971, I did custom tailoring and sewing for a living. My biggest claim to recognition was from the wedding gowns and trousseau's that I made. I could spend hours just creating and it was a real healer. Besides that, I was cheap and even the poorest bride to be could afford my work.
Now, my grand daughter has purchased her wedding gown and trousseau and I feel cheated. She is my only grand daughter and I just failed miserably. I do have 3 great granddaughters though and I will wait for them to, well maybe not. The oldest one is 10 so it will be awhile. I might just leave them the material and patterns that got created instead.
Anyway, I loved seeing your pictures and looking forward to seeing some more of them. Aren't we going to have a wonderful wedding feast with the Lord! Wow! All of that beauty and love surrounding us will be like, you know, heaven!
Take care and when you get through relaxing let us hear from you more.
Love and blessings,
Wilma
Hello Wilma,
Thank you so much for taking a peek at the pic and sharing your heart. By the way, the beauty with the dark hair at the far right is my 17 year old daughter.
I could not agree with you more about how healing designing and creating is!! I feel like my dollmaking has been a miracle worker in my emotions.
I could sense your disappointment about helping with the wedding planning. I can totally understand the heartache since you designed wedding gowns and trousseaus. That would be very difficult. I think that kids these days think that you have to BUY everything and they do not put any value at all on people making things. I certainly see it in my kids.
If it makes you feel any better, my daughter planned ALL of the wedding herself and made it clear that she did not want my opinion or help. I think that this generation sees themselves as very independent and do not see the need for multi-generational help except for paying for the thing!
The wedding was beautiful and she did a good job.
My heart hurt when you said that you felt like you had failed miserably. Is that because she bought her wedding things instead of having you make them? As much as it hurts, that is what this generation values.
Since, I understand that we will work in heaven, maybe the Lord has some tailoring projects in mind for you!!
Family stuff is really difficult and I think that it is sooooooooooo magnified when it comes to weddings, funerals and family reunions.
I had not seen my mom in about 5 years and in my Christian imagination, when she came up here, I was going to be this wonderfully loving and gracious Child of God and be the example that would lead her to Christ.
Ya wanna talk about failing miserably? Well, after about 1 day of my mom being opinionated, caustic, bossy, catty, intimidating and generally butting into my business where she had no right to even step in, my Christianity flew right out the window. It was tit for tat and my only goal was to be as passive aggressive as she is.
Now, the aftermath. She has gone home and I cannot even bear to return her phone calls telling me they got home ok.
I realized that I not only have not really forgiven her for the neglect and abuse when I was a kid, but that I cannot stand her as a person. If she was a stranger, she would never be my friend.
She left me with my dad and grandparents when I was a baby and I did not meet her until I was 16. (Shortly after I was born again, strangely enough.) We had a few good years but I realized early on that there is a distinct spiritual battle that happens when we are around each other. I sense an evil around her. I feel like my spiritual resolve is drained every time.
I must choose to walk in God's word in this situation. I must forgive her for what she has done in the past, and forgive her for what she said and did during this visit. I did not act any better than she did. My heart is so full of hatred that only Jesus can heal it.
Can I forgive someone, but still not want to talk to them unless I have to? I cannot believe the ugliness that I saw in myself this weekend. At this point I am trying not to let it overshadow the beauty of the day. And...it is so apparent that Jesus is coming back sooooo soon and I cannot hold onto this. God's word is truth and I can trust it. I can trust it enough to apply it to this situation.
My apologies for rambling on. I am wrestling with this greatly right now and I have to amend it today.
Anyway, when I get the other pics back I will see if I can figure out how to post some of them!
Wilma, you are a talented, loving, vibrant, intelligent woman of God and I greatly value your fellowship and wisdom. Your talents and experience will never be wasted or overlooked in eternity!!
Much love,
Grace
Wilma,
I tell ya, I am living my life like I have no relationship with God at all. I have been there too many times in my life. I feel like a rebellious child.
I am having to deal with so many things right now that I do not want to deal with.
I just want to rest and be left alone and not have to run 50 miles an hour anymore.
This is a really bad time to be far away from walking with God.
What do I do?
Grace
Grace, dear Grace,
I know how you feel and I know the battle that is going on inside you right now. The only way you can over come this destructive force is with forgiveness and that can only come by the grace of God. I didn't have a problem with my Mother, because we were so close but I did have it with my husband. Yep! This one I have now.
Abuser was his middle name and if his health was better he would be the same today if I allowed him to be. I can only tell you that I had to decide not to have the hate and anger in me anymore and I had to ask my Heavenly Father to help me overcome it. I wanted to be able to love my Jim just like I had before we were married but the abuse was keeping me from it. I asked and repeatedly asked and nothing happened and then one day while I was singing along with the praise and worship group, that anger and hatred just left. I knew Jim would never change without God's provision and provide He did.
Mother's are a different story but the same God and he wants your complete victory so you can commune with him. She is probably a most unhappy and remorseful person who wishes she could relive her life. If not, I wouldn't spend 2 minutes worrying about her. You might have been spared a terrible childhood but by the grace of God you were moved out of the circumstances. Praying for her is one of the hardest things you will ever do because you will almost certainly want God to Get her for you. If you don't you are one fantastic person, and I don't doubt it a bit that you are fantastic, or you wouldn't care so.
It is hard to pray for someone's soul when they are so hostile and cause you hurt. Look at King David's Psalms about his enemies. That is where I was with hubby and I am not ashamed to say it. It took a lot of humble prayer to get me to the point of forgiving him.
You can win this battle and come out better than you have ever been before. It is just a stepping stone to a greater relationship with Abba Father. Ask him to help you and to remove the stone of anger from you. Then address any other spot that has come into your being. You can do it and God will help do it for your soul's sake.
Grace, don't feed on it or it will become like a big wad of paste in your mouth and it will consume all of your time and thoughts. I think you are wise in not responding to her call because it could spark further attacks. I will be praying for you too and I know that Marge will too. You got a sisterhood that cares deeply for you. Love heals a lot of things and memories are included in the list.
You will be fine but it takes a decision that only you can make. Know that she probably is not the best Mother material out there and forgive her. Then take the next step as they are brought to mind, like her leaving you and know that she was not mature enough to know any better, then on and on until all is forgiven. You can't get it all done with one step prayers. Oh, we can but most generally it just takes time. God knows this and he works best when we are the weakest. He is still helping me work through the whole thing but it is one step at a time and I am now able to love hubby like before. Not as passionately but then that goes too, with time.
I feel disappointed about Carie but then you hit on the very thing that I had not thought about. Carie has no idea of the work I used to do because she wasn't even born then. I just realized that if I had been commissioned to do the gown, all of my time would have been taken up with that and knowing me, God would have had to take break time with me instead of devotion times and prayer would have been at the sewing or designing table.
You are right, I have other things I need to be doing. I am so glad you brought that to my attention. Now I can share that with my daughter and she will be relieved too.
I would gladly sew the white robes if they need a stand in or even help cut them out of the beautiful linen. I can't decide which I would rather do: sew or cook the food but one thing I have already asked to be allowed to do is wash and take care of Jesus feet. Now, please; don't all of you super-spiritual experts come running at me over this. If he wants his feet washed, I will be glad to do it and with all the passion I can muster. That is between him and me!
Take care sis and I will be praying for you.
Love and the best of blessings to you,
Wilma
Dearest Wilma,
Thank you so much for sharing with me.
You are a brave woman! I have to admit that I have sensed your struggle with him. I just assumed that it was just being married for so long! You just keep on keeping on and God takes care of the circumstances. Your faith so encourages me.
Has Jim come to the Lord? My husband is born again, but I am greatly concerned about the apathy that he feels about the things of God.
In this circumstance and so many I have faced lately, I think of the verse about whoever chooses to keep his life will lose it but whoever loses his life, for the Lord's sake, will keep it.
I read somewhere that the word "life" translates to a word that is similar to "ego".
I feel like all of this ends up being a stuggle with my willingness to let God have His way in my life.
However, I think I have always assumed that God expected me to muster up the energy and resolve and fortitude of personality to do what the bible says. I think I have changed my mind about that.
Once again, I come to God in my weakness, even my unwillingness, and turn to Him with that tiny ray of desiring repentance and ask Him to help me.
We wrestle not against flesh and blood. Am I trying to wrestle against my flesh with my flesh???
Oh Lord, help me to be willing to turn to You with my whole heart, willing to trust You with the outcome of things if I do them the way Your word says.
Thank you so much my sweet sister! I want to trust Jesus with all of this. He will not cast me out if I have to turn these things over to Him one little shred at a time?
I can really identify what you said about how creating and designing becomes foremost and then prayer and devotions happen on break at the sewing table. I quit making dolls for a year and a half for just that reason.
By the way, I do not think that I pointed the time and focus of that out to you, I think that the Holy Spirit did. If you go back and read my post, I did not say a thing! ;)
Well, I must get in the shower and get ready for work. I also wanted to mention that I have had Psalm 91 posted above my computer for quite some time now and have felt that it is very important.
Love you much!!
Grace
Grace,
Wilma is right, I 'would' have been praying for you,......if I'd known :( I just came here, again, because I wanted to thank you about writing down your Scriptures for today, when the Anonymous got a little cranky with me :) In fact, it was no doubt, my own fault, they did. I was 'trying' to make light of their stupid comments, and thought it might make them 'go away.' Nope. Soooo, I'm 'out of it.'
And Wilma is correct, about stop thinking about it. (as best you can)
It's a 'key' I learned from Kenneth E. Hagin's teaching. He said, "he didn't touch things like that in thought life."
For years (37 years, to be exact) I've had the kind of relationship that you described with you Mother, with my sister-in-law. And after feeling much the same way you've felt? I had to 'cut' that relationship out of my life.
I used to think she was saved. But I truthfully don't know anymore.
So, we have an e-mail relationship, (pretty much) so she can keep track of her brother's health. (although she dousn't seem overly concerned)
And it is possible to forgive, an not re-establish the relationship. To re-establish the relationship, IMHO, both people need to be in agreement. Amos 3:3
"Can two walk together, except they be agreed?"
Grace, I gotta tell you, I love you, and I know (somewhat) what you've been thru. And it ain't fun! Because I can't even imagine a Mother being that way. Wilma is right. God saved you further hurt by removing you from her care. And God can heal your broken heart, as well. Give it to Him. One piece at a time, if that's what it takes. And allow Him to do what only He can do, okay? What's the name of that older song? "Is your all on the Alter of sacrifice laid?" (I'm not sure about the last couple of words :( But, it's true of all of us. We can only lay thihgs (and circumstances) on the alter as they are placed on our hearts, right?
Well, Mike is wanting me to go, so I gotta stop for now.
Love to you, and God's best to you, too!
Grace,
Sorry about the typos, but out of the blue, Mike wanted to take a run up towards the Mountain. So, we went past Enumclaw, Buckley, and turned around ar Green River. It was beautiful, and we had the top down on his Mustang convertible, so it was fun.
Then I came home, made some lunch, and shampooed some carpet. (not all of it, though :) Not so much fun :)
Anyhow, I guess I said, what the Holy Spirit laid on my heart. But I wanted to let you know, that I'll be agreeing with you, in prayer, for a 'breakthru,' with your Mother, and related issues, okay?
Love you much!
Grace,
Make that, we turned around at Green Water, LOL. When I told my son, Bob we'd driven to Green River, he said, you mean Green Water. Of course :) Water, river, whatever, you get the point :)
Hi Marge!
Thanks so much for passing that on. She has been calling alot lately and to tell ya the truth, I just cannot get myself to return her calls.
I just feel so drained from it all and do not want to play nice, so I think it best to not play at all for awhile.
Man, I tell ya, if it is not this thing it is another. Marge, I really feel under spiritual attack this week. If there is a nasty person out there, they are showing up at my door. That word that I also included in that post was from Joyce Meyers devotional. "Do not be dismayed at the opposition." That was powerful to me and then Ps 34 right along with it. Do I need to tell them that I am doin' the dishes???
My reactions have not been good. I am questioning my own commitment to my salvation at this point! I have just had to come to God, without resources of my own and come broken and feeling defeated. But I am coming to Him. In years past, I would not have.
Thank you for praying for me. I love you too my dear friend. When nutty said those things I felt very protective toward you. If I felt that way, can you imagine what the God of heaven and earth felt toward you?
I lived in Kent and Fed Way for a couple of years in my early 20's and remember Green River. My new son in law and his family are from Enumclaw. Most of his family still lives there.
You and Wilma are such Godsends for talking with me and hearing me rants. You know what I am looking forward to most besides meeting at the cafe? I will be sooooo glad when we do not have any more temptation and we have unbroken fellowship with the Lord and none of this grief here.
Best go...but first, if you ever read any of Rapture Alert's articles he has a great one today about trusting in the Lord. A part of it is from Hal Lindsey and another from Ray Gano.
Have a great evening and I pray for peace for you tonite, amid anything that happens with Carole.
Love ya!
Grace
Grace,
God bless you, my dear sister in our wonderful Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!
And yes, I also long for the time in Heaven, when there will be no more assaults from satan. And he's the one that stirs up people, and causes the great division and problems for us, by and large, too.
Relationships are getting more and more difficult to maintain, because of alot of things in this present age. More stress, the loss of moral values, and more satanic attacks, 'as he knows that his time is short on the earth.'
And unfortunately, it's painful to walk away from certain people. And each case is different. So, we really need the Holy Spirit to direct us in those decisions. And sometimes, all we have to do, is to give things time, too.
But, I've been where you were this last week, at meeting hateful people. At times I think, Lord, where DID these people come from, anyhow? With me, it's mostly Customers. And I've encountered some real Lulus, too :( However, thankfully, you can walk away from them, and know that you don't have to live with them, or anything along those lines. (thank God!)
You know, Ive heard people give their testimonies, that have gone to Heaven. And one of the first things they report is that there is perfect peace there! No confusion, distraction, etc. Just perfect peace. YES! As the song goes, "Won't it be wonderful then."
Oh yeah, and then some!
Enjoy your new CD! And remember, that God loves you, and so do I!
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