The fun, food, and fellowship has begun! We arrived this afternoon, and when we were unloading we were greeted by one of our dearest friends. It's always great to see Bobbie! She's like family to me, so our time at General Conference started off just right. Later, Bro. Shoemake joined us and we had a wonderful time with more friends and family. It seems like no one can quit talking, hence the reason I am typing this post at 3:18 A.M! This will be my life for the next five days, and I love it!
Since my body is tired, and my eyes are about to close, I am going to try and sleep. I have to be up in a few hours for a breakfast I will be attending.
Now....IF my brain will just turn off.....Goodnight....
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Sunday, September 26, 2010
General Conference Time
We are finally at the threshold of the week we have all been preparing for. I've listened to ladies talk about going shopping, and listened to them as they said they couldn't find anything in the stores this year. Being one that does not like to shop, it takes everything in me to go to the mall. I had to go this year for a few things, and had to go by myself. Through the years I've enjoyed my sister Karla going with me, but this year it wasn't possible to do our "two day shopping trip". We did get to shop for a couple of hours in Wichita Falls when I went to a wedding a few weeks ago, and we had a good time. Karla "makes me" try on clothes that I would never take off the rack. When I have to go by myself I hear her voice. "Linda, you don't know if it's going to fit or not if you DON'T put it on! You never know...it just might work!" :) It's nice having a "baby sister" that loves to tell the "older sister" what to do! Anyway, I don't know where all that is leading as I type, but before I get too deep in the middle of "sibling love" I will move on.
General Conference is almost HERE! To be honest, of which I am all the time anyway, I didn't want conference to be in Houston! I have nothing against Houston, but I love to travel two or three days to get to conference. Since it's in Houston we only get to travel a couple of hours and we're there! Also, it's been HOT here in East Texas up until today! I haven't been in the mood to put on "fall clothes" since it's been so hot. Who wants to wear "fall clothes" when it's in the 90's and above? Not me! Besides, the humidity that lingers in the air is enough to suffocate anyone who is brave enough to step outside! Talk about being transparent! I'm going to get in trouble from the Houstonians that just might read my blog. Now...let me make myself and everyone else feel better!
Earlier in the evening I looked outside and saw the trees waving in the wind. That was a strange sight here in East Texas, but the wind had picked up over the afternoon. I had been hearing about the beautiful weather that had come in north of us, so I imagined that the wind was "blowing out the heat" and bringing some cool air to us. After a few hours I stepped outside. What a WELCOME I got!!!! There was a cool breeze blowing, and the temperature had dropped to 68-70 degrees! FALL had arrived!!!!! It was wonderful to step outside and not "smother" from the humidity and heat!
I've been checking the weather for Houston off and on this week. My "weather sources" are showing it's going to be a beautiful, sunshiny, week. If the weather man is right, it's going to be in the mid 80's during the day and will drop about 20 degrees in the evening. They are also saying there is going to be zero precipitation!!!! For those who do not live in this area you might not understand the importance of ZERO PRECIPITATION! But, please take it from me...if it rains in TEXAS...it's not a sprinkle or two. If it's going to rain, it's most likely going to be a GULLY-WASHER and there is no way to stay dry if you have to be in and out of buildings! So, just to let anyone know that may be wondering if I'm feeling better about conference being close by...I'm feeling pretty good about now! :) I really don't think I've ever been as relaxed about packing. The way I see it is, if I happen to leave something at home that I DESPERATELY NEED, I only have two hours to drive home to get it!
I am really looking forward to seeing all my family and friends. When we get to be in one place at the same time, my heart is HAPPY! When I see those I have not seen for a long time, it's like a big "family reunion" and that makes me HAPPY! When I step inside that huge auditorium where the best music you have ever heard is playing, and the singers start singing, I'm HAPPY! When I hear the voices of thousands of people as they worship Jesus Christ, King above all kings, I'm HAPPY! Then to top off the service, I have the privilege of hearing some great, anointed preaching, and my soul is HAPPY! When we make our way through the crowd with friends or family, and can barely get out the door because the ones you are with, and ourselves, get stopped by so many people that it takes us a LONG time to get out and go eat, I'm HAPPY! The closest thing to realizing what it's going to be like when we all get to Heaven has got to be when people from all over the world come together for the UNITED PENTECOSTAL CHURCH INTERNATIONAL GENERAL CONFERENCE! Yes, I'm HAPPY just thinking about it!
So...back to the stress of the shopping trips I've heard about and experienced. It doesn't matter to me whether you have on a new outfit or not. It's just going to be good seeing you! Your smile, your hug, and the warm hello's is all that really matters to me.
So....YA'LL HURRY UP AND GET HERE, because we're going to have a wonderful time, and I can't wait to see you!
General Conference is almost HERE! To be honest, of which I am all the time anyway, I didn't want conference to be in Houston! I have nothing against Houston, but I love to travel two or three days to get to conference. Since it's in Houston we only get to travel a couple of hours and we're there! Also, it's been HOT here in East Texas up until today! I haven't been in the mood to put on "fall clothes" since it's been so hot. Who wants to wear "fall clothes" when it's in the 90's and above? Not me! Besides, the humidity that lingers in the air is enough to suffocate anyone who is brave enough to step outside! Talk about being transparent! I'm going to get in trouble from the Houstonians that just might read my blog. Now...let me make myself and everyone else feel better!
Earlier in the evening I looked outside and saw the trees waving in the wind. That was a strange sight here in East Texas, but the wind had picked up over the afternoon. I had been hearing about the beautiful weather that had come in north of us, so I imagined that the wind was "blowing out the heat" and bringing some cool air to us. After a few hours I stepped outside. What a WELCOME I got!!!! There was a cool breeze blowing, and the temperature had dropped to 68-70 degrees! FALL had arrived!!!!! It was wonderful to step outside and not "smother" from the humidity and heat!
I've been checking the weather for Houston off and on this week. My "weather sources" are showing it's going to be a beautiful, sunshiny, week. If the weather man is right, it's going to be in the mid 80's during the day and will drop about 20 degrees in the evening. They are also saying there is going to be zero precipitation!!!! For those who do not live in this area you might not understand the importance of ZERO PRECIPITATION! But, please take it from me...if it rains in TEXAS...it's not a sprinkle or two. If it's going to rain, it's most likely going to be a GULLY-WASHER and there is no way to stay dry if you have to be in and out of buildings! So, just to let anyone know that may be wondering if I'm feeling better about conference being close by...I'm feeling pretty good about now! :) I really don't think I've ever been as relaxed about packing. The way I see it is, if I happen to leave something at home that I DESPERATELY NEED, I only have two hours to drive home to get it!
I am really looking forward to seeing all my family and friends. When we get to be in one place at the same time, my heart is HAPPY! When I see those I have not seen for a long time, it's like a big "family reunion" and that makes me HAPPY! When I step inside that huge auditorium where the best music you have ever heard is playing, and the singers start singing, I'm HAPPY! When I hear the voices of thousands of people as they worship Jesus Christ, King above all kings, I'm HAPPY! Then to top off the service, I have the privilege of hearing some great, anointed preaching, and my soul is HAPPY! When we make our way through the crowd with friends or family, and can barely get out the door because the ones you are with, and ourselves, get stopped by so many people that it takes us a LONG time to get out and go eat, I'm HAPPY! The closest thing to realizing what it's going to be like when we all get to Heaven has got to be when people from all over the world come together for the UNITED PENTECOSTAL CHURCH INTERNATIONAL GENERAL CONFERENCE! Yes, I'm HAPPY just thinking about it!
So...back to the stress of the shopping trips I've heard about and experienced. It doesn't matter to me whether you have on a new outfit or not. It's just going to be good seeing you! Your smile, your hug, and the warm hello's is all that really matters to me.
So....YA'LL HURRY UP AND GET HERE, because we're going to have a wonderful time, and I can't wait to see you!
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Ponder
Tonight as I was going about the house taking care of things when a word I have not heard in a long time popped into my head. PONDER! Upon entering my mind, my mind started recalling things from the past. After awhile I decided to sit down and look the word up.
PONDER - 1. to consider something deeply and thoroughly; meditate. 2. to weigh careful in the mind; consider thoughtfully.
I can see him sitting in the living room. There is "noise" in the kitchen as supper is being cooked. There is "noise" coming from one of the bedrooms where music is being played. There's a young girl sitting at the piano practicing her piano lessons and there's "noise" because the "piano music" was not being played correctly. There he sits, in the middle of "noise", but he doesn't seem to notice. He's sitting quietly, looking at nothing, or no one. Upon seeing this scene, the young girl goes to the kitchen to inquire of her Mother. "What is Daddy doing? Why is he just sitting there and staring off?" The Mother had seen this many times throughout their marriage and knew exactly how to answer. "Your Daddy is meditating." That was quite a big word for the little girl to understand, so she asked, "What does THAT mean?" The Mother explained..."That means your Daddy is thinking about something important. He may be thinking about what he is going to preach tonight. He probably has a lot on his mind. Don't disturb him! He needs to be alone right now." The little girl nods her head, goes and looks at her Daddy again, but she wasn't about to disturb him, because he was "meditating".
This picture is painted vividly in my mind and it will never be thrown away. I remember it as if it were yesterday! I really believe that some of the greatest messages I've heard have come from men and women of God who took time to "ponder", and in those times God spoke to them and developed a message filled with "power, passion, and anointing".
Now, as I look back, I wish I could have crawled into my Daddy's mind and read the many thoughts that were there. He was a powerful preacher of the Word! He never had a diploma stating he had a doctors degree in theology, but he didn't need it. He was a studier of the Word of God. He loved talking about God and His Word more than anything else! He loved preaching and ministering to people. No, he may not have been "smart" in the world's eyes, but he really didn't care what they thought. He wasn't planning on staying here for very long anyway, but while he was here he wanted to preach the gospel to all who would listen. He preached without fear or favor, and it didn't matter if you agreed with him or not. When he had a word from the Lord, he wasn't fearful of man or the false doctrines that are destroying "relationship with Almighty God". Many years down the road I'm so glad I didn't interrupt when Daddy was "meditating, pondering, communing" with God! The messages I heard him preach through life, are what gave me the desire to have my own relationship with God. They are what made me WANT to be saved above all else! They are what gave me a glimpse of Heaven. Daddy made Heaven so real, and beautiful that nothing is worth me not going!
Daddy is not the only preacher I have seen "ponder...meditate". I have watched my husband as he was "in another world", and knew that this was not the time to disturb his thoughts. I have watched our sons, Jonathan and Andrew sit and stare! Oh yes, I recognized it! I knew they were being drawn into another place. I knew when they step to the pulpit that they would have the same "power, passion, and anointing" as their father, and grandfather.
In a few hours we will all gather in a sanctuary to spend time with God in Morning Worship. Preachers everywhere will bring the scriptures to life as they preach with "power, passion and anointing". I'm sure there were little girls and boys that watched their Daddy today, as he sat in the living room, staring off into another world. Mother's were asked the same question I asked..."Mommy...what is Daddy doing? He's just staring! "Oh honey...Daddy is meditating. Don't bother him."
Yes...the "cycle of life" continues....
PONDER - 1. to consider something deeply and thoroughly; meditate. 2. to weigh careful in the mind; consider thoughtfully.
I can see him sitting in the living room. There is "noise" in the kitchen as supper is being cooked. There is "noise" coming from one of the bedrooms where music is being played. There's a young girl sitting at the piano practicing her piano lessons and there's "noise" because the "piano music" was not being played correctly. There he sits, in the middle of "noise", but he doesn't seem to notice. He's sitting quietly, looking at nothing, or no one. Upon seeing this scene, the young girl goes to the kitchen to inquire of her Mother. "What is Daddy doing? Why is he just sitting there and staring off?" The Mother had seen this many times throughout their marriage and knew exactly how to answer. "Your Daddy is meditating." That was quite a big word for the little girl to understand, so she asked, "What does THAT mean?" The Mother explained..."That means your Daddy is thinking about something important. He may be thinking about what he is going to preach tonight. He probably has a lot on his mind. Don't disturb him! He needs to be alone right now." The little girl nods her head, goes and looks at her Daddy again, but she wasn't about to disturb him, because he was "meditating".
This picture is painted vividly in my mind and it will never be thrown away. I remember it as if it were yesterday! I really believe that some of the greatest messages I've heard have come from men and women of God who took time to "ponder", and in those times God spoke to them and developed a message filled with "power, passion, and anointing".
Now, as I look back, I wish I could have crawled into my Daddy's mind and read the many thoughts that were there. He was a powerful preacher of the Word! He never had a diploma stating he had a doctors degree in theology, but he didn't need it. He was a studier of the Word of God. He loved talking about God and His Word more than anything else! He loved preaching and ministering to people. No, he may not have been "smart" in the world's eyes, but he really didn't care what they thought. He wasn't planning on staying here for very long anyway, but while he was here he wanted to preach the gospel to all who would listen. He preached without fear or favor, and it didn't matter if you agreed with him or not. When he had a word from the Lord, he wasn't fearful of man or the false doctrines that are destroying "relationship with Almighty God". Many years down the road I'm so glad I didn't interrupt when Daddy was "meditating, pondering, communing" with God! The messages I heard him preach through life, are what gave me the desire to have my own relationship with God. They are what made me WANT to be saved above all else! They are what gave me a glimpse of Heaven. Daddy made Heaven so real, and beautiful that nothing is worth me not going!
Daddy is not the only preacher I have seen "ponder...meditate". I have watched my husband as he was "in another world", and knew that this was not the time to disturb his thoughts. I have watched our sons, Jonathan and Andrew sit and stare! Oh yes, I recognized it! I knew they were being drawn into another place. I knew when they step to the pulpit that they would have the same "power, passion, and anointing" as their father, and grandfather.
In a few hours we will all gather in a sanctuary to spend time with God in Morning Worship. Preachers everywhere will bring the scriptures to life as they preach with "power, passion and anointing". I'm sure there were little girls and boys that watched their Daddy today, as he sat in the living room, staring off into another world. Mother's were asked the same question I asked..."Mommy...what is Daddy doing? He's just staring! "Oh honey...Daddy is meditating. Don't bother him."
Yes...the "cycle of life" continues....
Monday, September 20, 2010
A Tribute to a Beautiful Lady
There is a special lady that lives a long way from me that I want to give tribute to. For some reason I cannot get her off of my mind. She has been a "life-long friend" and I admire her greatly! Before I was born she was friends with my parents. In fact, before Daddy married Mother, Daddy traveled with a young man name Bill who eventually married the lady I am talking about.
Aunt Joyce...You are one of the sweetest and most beautiful ladies I have been privileged to know all of my life. As I little girl I always looked forward to seeing you and Uncle Bill. You have always been so much fun! I remember many times listening to you and Mother talk and giggle. It didn't have to be anything much, and at times I would wonder what ya'll were laughing about, but you just kept on "giggling" like two teenage girls. I have heard Mother speak of you all of my life. She loved hearing you preach! She would say, "I LOVE hearing Joyce preach!" I would ask her why, and her answer was always the same. "She has something to say and she is a lady when she is in the pulpit." I don't know how many times I heard her say those words! After I got older, I also loved hearing you preach! You have always been so "real". There has never been any pretense about you.
Through the years I always knew that wherever you were, if I walked up I would be greeted with a warm hug from you. I always got that "warm fuzzy feeling" because once I was in your presence you made me feel so special. Thank you for loving me and letting me know it.
Your life is a perfect example of how to walk with the Lord. Your dedication, your passion, and your love for God has been a guiding light to me through the years. You are one of the people I admire for knowing HIM! You have never flaunted that you were spiritual, you just were! You have never been judgemental of others. You have loved those who were not perfect. You are a beautiful example of being "Christ-like". Thank you for your stand for righteousness, holiness, and separation from the world. Oh, how I wish everyone would have the "spirit of holiness" you have portrayed, and love it like you do.
I do not know why I have felt led to write this tonight. I really want you to know how I feel, and everyone else to know that if they want to see a "true, Christian lady" they need to look at your life and pattern their walk after you.
Aunt Joyce, I submit this for all the "blog world" to see, because I love you so very much! Thank you, thank you, thank for your love for me! I will carry your name forever, and I trust I will bring you the honor you deserve!
I love you!
Linda Joyce
Note: For those of you who do not know who I am speaking about: Aunt Joyce was married to Rev. Bill Barnes and they pastored in Farwell, Texas for years. He died many years ago from a brain tumor. She is now married to Rev. Robert Baglin. He is a wonderful man, and loves her so very much. They live in California.
Aunt Joyce...You are one of the sweetest and most beautiful ladies I have been privileged to know all of my life. As I little girl I always looked forward to seeing you and Uncle Bill. You have always been so much fun! I remember many times listening to you and Mother talk and giggle. It didn't have to be anything much, and at times I would wonder what ya'll were laughing about, but you just kept on "giggling" like two teenage girls. I have heard Mother speak of you all of my life. She loved hearing you preach! She would say, "I LOVE hearing Joyce preach!" I would ask her why, and her answer was always the same. "She has something to say and she is a lady when she is in the pulpit." I don't know how many times I heard her say those words! After I got older, I also loved hearing you preach! You have always been so "real". There has never been any pretense about you.
Through the years I always knew that wherever you were, if I walked up I would be greeted with a warm hug from you. I always got that "warm fuzzy feeling" because once I was in your presence you made me feel so special. Thank you for loving me and letting me know it.
Your life is a perfect example of how to walk with the Lord. Your dedication, your passion, and your love for God has been a guiding light to me through the years. You are one of the people I admire for knowing HIM! You have never flaunted that you were spiritual, you just were! You have never been judgemental of others. You have loved those who were not perfect. You are a beautiful example of being "Christ-like". Thank you for your stand for righteousness, holiness, and separation from the world. Oh, how I wish everyone would have the "spirit of holiness" you have portrayed, and love it like you do.
I do not know why I have felt led to write this tonight. I really want you to know how I feel, and everyone else to know that if they want to see a "true, Christian lady" they need to look at your life and pattern their walk after you.
Aunt Joyce, I submit this for all the "blog world" to see, because I love you so very much! Thank you, thank you, thank for your love for me! I will carry your name forever, and I trust I will bring you the honor you deserve!
I love you!
Linda Joyce
Note: For those of you who do not know who I am speaking about: Aunt Joyce was married to Rev. Bill Barnes and they pastored in Farwell, Texas for years. He died many years ago from a brain tumor. She is now married to Rev. Robert Baglin. He is a wonderful man, and loves her so very much. They live in California.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Teach 'Em, Train 'Em, Let 'Em Go...
My husband received a call yesterday inviting him to preach at the Texas Bible College service today. He accepted the invitation and I'm glad he did. We love young people and want to see them succeed in ministry. Our children, teenagers, and young adults are our greatest asset in the Kingdom of God. As life marches on, each generation comes on the scene and is used by God. Each one does what they were called to do, then the next generation steps in and takes the leadership. It is a beautiful "cycle of life"!
I love being around young people. They have ideas and dreams that have yet to be fulfilled, and the passion and call of God on their life pushes them to learn and develop. When I see young ladies that are learning to play, sing, teach and become leaders, I see myself so long ago. They want to be used by God...just as I wanted to be used by Him. They want to flow in the spirit...as I wanted to. But, one thing I see different in the way they are, and the way I was when I was their age is...they don't SEEM to be as fearful when asked to be up in front of a crowd. I stand in amazement when I see young ladies step to the platform with confidence, and I love watching as God takes their talents and uses them for His glory!
I really want to be an encourager to the next generation! I know they have things to learn, but so did we when we were young. I really think its good for us "seasoned" adults to remember that someone gave US a chance! I think back to the pastors that had us come and minister to their churches when we were young, and wonder how they did it. :-) I remember going to the piano after my husband's message. I was so scared that I wouldn't do it "just right", then after church the pastor's wife would compliment me and tell me what a great job I had done. I was thinking the whole time..."If you only knew the torture I go through to be up there"! But, as I look back, I'm sure she knew how I was feeling. She also knew how to encourage a young preacher's wife! I made plenty mistakes, but I had people in my life that would smile and say it was okay. I am thankful for those that sometimes "put up with my fumbling around". I'm so glad they didn't give up on that "young, scared preacher's wife".
Isn't "teaching, training and letting go" what life's all about? An elder becoming jealous of one they have trained does not make a lot of sense to me. Aren't we suppose to allow our "young" to come on the scene with their burden and dreams, then stand back and watch them as they are successful in their leading? This is the time of life I have been working towards. It's a beautiful time! I can either "wish for the good old days" or enjoy "today"! Today, I can relax knowing we have, and still are doing our part in training and leading the next generation into truth and righteousness. We can feel confident that we are giving them tools to lead the generations following THEM. My husband has said through the years that he wants "the younger ones to come along and stand on our shoulders so they can take the work to a higher level". I love his philosophy!
Yes, we are still running beside them in the "race", and do not plan on stopping for awhile longer, but we're also at a time in life that we can enjoy the fruit of our labor! It thrills me to watch and listen to those we have mentored through the years as they use their talents and calling from God! I love to hear them preach and sing. I love to hear them pray the prayer of faith. I love for them to lay THEIR hand on MY head and ask God to take care of my need. I love just standing around after church listening to young men and women as they teach me something I did not know, and they don't even realize they are helping me to understand THEM.
I feel that a good and healthy attitude to have, is to enjoy the "cycle of life" as it rolls along, allowing the young, strong and passionate to take the lead. If we have done our best at teaching, leading, and training, then we can know without a doubt that the Truth we have taught through the years will be preached without fear or favor!
In my heart I hear music playing. Wait! What is that song? Oh! That's it...
"Glory, glory hallelujah...His truth is marching on"!
I love being around young people. They have ideas and dreams that have yet to be fulfilled, and the passion and call of God on their life pushes them to learn and develop. When I see young ladies that are learning to play, sing, teach and become leaders, I see myself so long ago. They want to be used by God...just as I wanted to be used by Him. They want to flow in the spirit...as I wanted to. But, one thing I see different in the way they are, and the way I was when I was their age is...they don't SEEM to be as fearful when asked to be up in front of a crowd. I stand in amazement when I see young ladies step to the platform with confidence, and I love watching as God takes their talents and uses them for His glory!
I really want to be an encourager to the next generation! I know they have things to learn, but so did we when we were young. I really think its good for us "seasoned" adults to remember that someone gave US a chance! I think back to the pastors that had us come and minister to their churches when we were young, and wonder how they did it. :-) I remember going to the piano after my husband's message. I was so scared that I wouldn't do it "just right", then after church the pastor's wife would compliment me and tell me what a great job I had done. I was thinking the whole time..."If you only knew the torture I go through to be up there"! But, as I look back, I'm sure she knew how I was feeling. She also knew how to encourage a young preacher's wife! I made plenty mistakes, but I had people in my life that would smile and say it was okay. I am thankful for those that sometimes "put up with my fumbling around". I'm so glad they didn't give up on that "young, scared preacher's wife".
Isn't "teaching, training and letting go" what life's all about? An elder becoming jealous of one they have trained does not make a lot of sense to me. Aren't we suppose to allow our "young" to come on the scene with their burden and dreams, then stand back and watch them as they are successful in their leading? This is the time of life I have been working towards. It's a beautiful time! I can either "wish for the good old days" or enjoy "today"! Today, I can relax knowing we have, and still are doing our part in training and leading the next generation into truth and righteousness. We can feel confident that we are giving them tools to lead the generations following THEM. My husband has said through the years that he wants "the younger ones to come along and stand on our shoulders so they can take the work to a higher level". I love his philosophy!
Yes, we are still running beside them in the "race", and do not plan on stopping for awhile longer, but we're also at a time in life that we can enjoy the fruit of our labor! It thrills me to watch and listen to those we have mentored through the years as they use their talents and calling from God! I love to hear them preach and sing. I love to hear them pray the prayer of faith. I love for them to lay THEIR hand on MY head and ask God to take care of my need. I love just standing around after church listening to young men and women as they teach me something I did not know, and they don't even realize they are helping me to understand THEM.
I feel that a good and healthy attitude to have, is to enjoy the "cycle of life" as it rolls along, allowing the young, strong and passionate to take the lead. If we have done our best at teaching, leading, and training, then we can know without a doubt that the Truth we have taught through the years will be preached without fear or favor!
In my heart I hear music playing. Wait! What is that song? Oh! That's it...
"Glory, glory hallelujah...His truth is marching on"!
Saturday, September 18, 2010
A Few Rambling Thoughts
I love my life! God has been so good to me! I sit here tonight getting ready to go to sleep, and I think back over the day and the little things that make "life worth living". I don't have a lot to say, except for I've enjoyed being at home with my husband today. I loved watching him work around the house, doing "Honey Do's". I didn't tell him to do anything, but that's what he called it. He is quite a man! I am thankful he is not lazy!!! In fact, sometimes I have to tell him to stop working, because he has worked long enough and hard enough. I'm thankful he is the way he is. I wouldn't know how to act if I was married to someone who just wouldn't do what needs to be done. :) One thing for sure...he's not going to sit around.
This evening after the days work was finished, I came in the house, sat down at the piano and started playing. Sometimes I just want to sit and play, and sing, and sing, and sing. Today was a day like that. Singing and playing for me is soothing to my spirit. When I play the piano or organ, I can feel the stress of the day go away, and I start feeling my mind and body relax. There's something special about music that does that for me. At one point in my playing and singing I felt like I was ministering to my own "household". Of course, that would only be me and my husband. :) The presence of God came walking into our home, and I knew He was here. There was no grand entrance, just a quiet, peaceful calm that flooded in. I'm thankful for those times.
I have enjoyed visiting with friends and family today via the internet. I'm glad we have such a great invention. Of course, if everyone that's a Christian treats it as a "relationship tool" and not a "degrading instrument" we can enjoy it that much more. I'm glad I don't have to worry about friends or family that wants to tear down those they are connected to. Life is too short to get up tight over what someone else is doing "wrong". Thank you to those I am friends with for being Christ-like.
I have a heart filled with thankfulness tonight! There is a song that came to mind last night when I was reading my Bible that our ensemble at Life Tabernacle sang years ago. "If it had not been for the Lord on my side. Where would I be? Where would I be?" One of the times we sang the song was when we were invited to sing at a service where Bro. Urshan was preaching. When he finished preaching he asked us to sing it again. I don't know how long we sung, but it seemed like forever! He loved it! :) Why did that come to mind tonight? I don't have any idea. I guess that's my next thing to be thankful for.
I'm thankful I have memories to enjoy! So many people look at the past and have nothing good to say about it. I choose to look at the past and ENJOY it! Oh, everyone has something they could talk about that is negative, but that's not fun! Life has it's ups and downs, but we feel better if we focus on the GOOD THINGS in our life. Anyway, the "past is the past" and you can't go back and do it over. You must walk forward enjoying NOW and looking to the future.
Well, I guess I will "sign off" for now. I really don't know if many people come to read much anymore, so I guess I'll just write for me and whoever wants to listen. :) Goodnight!
This evening after the days work was finished, I came in the house, sat down at the piano and started playing. Sometimes I just want to sit and play, and sing, and sing, and sing. Today was a day like that. Singing and playing for me is soothing to my spirit. When I play the piano or organ, I can feel the stress of the day go away, and I start feeling my mind and body relax. There's something special about music that does that for me. At one point in my playing and singing I felt like I was ministering to my own "household". Of course, that would only be me and my husband. :) The presence of God came walking into our home, and I knew He was here. There was no grand entrance, just a quiet, peaceful calm that flooded in. I'm thankful for those times.
I have enjoyed visiting with friends and family today via the internet. I'm glad we have such a great invention. Of course, if everyone that's a Christian treats it as a "relationship tool" and not a "degrading instrument" we can enjoy it that much more. I'm glad I don't have to worry about friends or family that wants to tear down those they are connected to. Life is too short to get up tight over what someone else is doing "wrong". Thank you to those I am friends with for being Christ-like.
I have a heart filled with thankfulness tonight! There is a song that came to mind last night when I was reading my Bible that our ensemble at Life Tabernacle sang years ago. "If it had not been for the Lord on my side. Where would I be? Where would I be?" One of the times we sang the song was when we were invited to sing at a service where Bro. Urshan was preaching. When he finished preaching he asked us to sing it again. I don't know how long we sung, but it seemed like forever! He loved it! :) Why did that come to mind tonight? I don't have any idea. I guess that's my next thing to be thankful for.
I'm thankful I have memories to enjoy! So many people look at the past and have nothing good to say about it. I choose to look at the past and ENJOY it! Oh, everyone has something they could talk about that is negative, but that's not fun! Life has it's ups and downs, but we feel better if we focus on the GOOD THINGS in our life. Anyway, the "past is the past" and you can't go back and do it over. You must walk forward enjoying NOW and looking to the future.
Well, I guess I will "sign off" for now. I really don't know if many people come to read much anymore, so I guess I'll just write for me and whoever wants to listen. :) Goodnight!
Friday, September 17, 2010
Today
This day has come to an end, and I think I will go to bed. But, before I go, I wanted to say "it's been a good day"!
God is still God...He never changes!
He has watched over my family...always has...always will!
I'm thankful I know that He will "never leave me, nor forsake me".
It's great to be alive!
As Savanna use to say..."Have a nice sleep!"
God is still God...He never changes!
He has watched over my family...always has...always will!
I'm thankful I know that He will "never leave me, nor forsake me".
It's great to be alive!
As Savanna use to say..."Have a nice sleep!"
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Happy Anniversary....Wendell
Dear Wendell,
Tonight I sit here thinking about my life with you. I fell in love with you at the young age of 12! After I saw you that very first time, I was determined that you would be MINE...someday! A couple years later you finally took notice of the "little 14 year old" that was "google-eyed" over you. Of course, I didn't let you know how I felt until a few years had gone by. Now, many years have gone by, and as I look back over 38 years with you I want to say....I am so happy that one day you stole my heart, and I never got it back. You have lovingly held it in your hands, and wrapped me in your arms...and I have been safe. Thank you for your love and devotion. You have done a wonderful job taking care of your bride!
Through the years we have gone through valleys and rested by the "cool still waters" of God's presence. We have climbed mountains, and stood at the top viewing the beauty of life that surrounded us. We have laughed until we cried, cried until we laughed, and shared in each others dreams. We've had dreams that have been fulfilled, and still have some we are reaching for. I'll just say that... "I love dreaming" with YOU! After 38 wonderful years I still sing:
Whither thou goest, I will go.
Wherever thou lodgest, I will lodge.
Thy people shall be my people, my love.
Whither thou goest, I will go.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Wedding Bells
Today in Wichita Falls is a day I have prayed for, for a long time! Kassie Dutton is getting married, and I wish her all the happiness in the world! She has kept herself from the clutches of the world that could have buried themselves into her soul. I am so very proud of her for her stand in living for God when she could have gone a different direction. She knows of what I speak, and some who read this post will understand. I just want to say she has been a beautiful example of a true Christian! Thank you Kassie for standing strong! I love you and know you're going to be happy "from this forward", to the man of your dreams...Randy Pounds!
Monday, September 06, 2010
A Mom Will Protect
A few weeks ago I had an experience I will not soon forget. While watching our grown son sitting on a horse, getting ready to go on a "trail ride", the horse decided to get cantankerous, and the next thing I saw was Andrew on the ground with the horse stepping all around him. My heart stopped, but I went into ACTION! I know horses are powerful animals, and they can hurt you if you don't know what to do with them, but it didn't matter at that moment that I could have put myself in danger. All that mattered to me was that MY SON didn't get trampled by a horse! Then, I was cautioned by Jonathan, our other son, "Mom, the last thing you need to do when something like that happens is run toward the horse!" He was only trying to protect "Mom", and I understand that, but, I couldn't help myself! I COULDN'T stop myself! "MOM" went into action calling on the name of Jesus for protection.
I've relived that moment over and over for a few weeks, but not until I heard another story about someone that was "actively" trying to "woo" one of our young preacher's into their clutches of deception did I really consider the depth of my actions in our "Horse and Rider" story.
The Church, has been referred to many times as a "Mother of spiritual children", and there are times we must stand up and PROTECT our "young". "Mother" can not stand by and watch her young preachers and preacher's wives being destroyed from the deception that is sweeping our world! We love our "young", and we will protect them even if we are put into danger of being trampled by deceptive spirits that want to run wild, only to pursue and destroy.
My heart is stirred and I will not sit idly by and feel helpless. The enemy wants to make us think we are, but we're not! We can pray a protection around our "younger generation" and surround them with love, then draw them close so they know they are SAFE!
Neither am I hopeless! We have an army of young men and young ladies who love Truth as much as their elders do. They will not bow, they will not give in, they will not back down! I have heard them declare Truth in their preaching! I have watched them live Truth in their actions! I have felt the spirit of God as they brought us into worship! Our "young" are marching forward, bearing the banner of Truth! I love being in their presence. I love to stand and talk to them and listen to their hopes and dreams. And, I, along with others, will walk beside them and help them see their dreams of revival and harvest come to pass.
So, young preacher! Young preacher's wife! Stand strong! Fight the GOOD FIGHT! Go to battle! Fight the war! You will WIN and be the CHAMPIONS OF TRUTH!
I've relived that moment over and over for a few weeks, but not until I heard another story about someone that was "actively" trying to "woo" one of our young preacher's into their clutches of deception did I really consider the depth of my actions in our "Horse and Rider" story.
The Church, has been referred to many times as a "Mother of spiritual children", and there are times we must stand up and PROTECT our "young". "Mother" can not stand by and watch her young preachers and preacher's wives being destroyed from the deception that is sweeping our world! We love our "young", and we will protect them even if we are put into danger of being trampled by deceptive spirits that want to run wild, only to pursue and destroy.
My heart is stirred and I will not sit idly by and feel helpless. The enemy wants to make us think we are, but we're not! We can pray a protection around our "younger generation" and surround them with love, then draw them close so they know they are SAFE!
Neither am I hopeless! We have an army of young men and young ladies who love Truth as much as their elders do. They will not bow, they will not give in, they will not back down! I have heard them declare Truth in their preaching! I have watched them live Truth in their actions! I have felt the spirit of God as they brought us into worship! Our "young" are marching forward, bearing the banner of Truth! I love being in their presence. I love to stand and talk to them and listen to their hopes and dreams. And, I, along with others, will walk beside them and help them see their dreams of revival and harvest come to pass.
So, young preacher! Young preacher's wife! Stand strong! Fight the GOOD FIGHT! Go to battle! Fight the war! You will WIN and be the CHAMPIONS OF TRUTH!
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