What Is Your Attitude?

What is your attitude?  We get so tired when kids whine and complain about EVERYTHING!  We get onto them after we figure out there's really nothing wrong, they're just in a "bad attitude."  

As an adult, some never learned to control their attitude.  Some seem to enjoy living in a childish role of a whining and complaining spirit.  I can still hear Mother's voice..."Linda Joyce...you need to get your attitude straight or I'm going to send you to your room!"  Yes, I've been told that a few times in my life!  

As an adult, I sometimes have to do an "attitude check" and straighten myself up, so I'm not "sent to my room!"  As a child, "my room" wasn't near as bad as the one I've found myself in as an adult.  "The room" of frustration, anger, bitterness, and being on edge with everybody and everything isn't near as peaceful as my childhood room.  The room of "negativity" never gets anything right.  THAT room will cause one to live a miserable life.  

Since we're talking about rooms that either help or destroy us, I've decided to go to "The Prayer Room."  I can take all my frustrations, aggravations, whining, and complaining attitude there.  When I go to the prayer room,  I find forgiveness for my rotten attitude, and peace fills my heart.  Spending time in this room will make everything better. "Create in me a clean heart, Oh God!  Renew in me a right spirit." #thinkinoutloud

I'd Do It Again

As I was packing all the Christmas decorations away my back and legs were hurting very badly, because I had been on my feet for hours working toward finishing today. I started thinking about the great time we'd had with our family, and how pretty my house looked during the Christmas holiday, and I felt so happy! I started thanking The Lord for all of the blessings in our life, and I thought..."I would do all of this all over again." I do not have one complaint about all the work it takes to decorate, entertain, cleaning it all up, and putting it all away! Not even one tiny word of complaint came out of my mouth.

You know, it's easy to focus on the negative, when really, if you have a messed up house, extra food in the fridge that needs to be thrown away, and decorations take several hours to pack away...you are BLESSED!

So...

"Thank God for dirty dishes; they have a tale to tell.
While others may go hungry, we're eating very well.
For the stack of evidence I shouldn't want to fuss.
With home and health and happiness, God's been good to us."

HAPPY NEW YEAR to all my friends and family! May we all focus on the goodness of God and the blessings in our lives.

Walmart Encounter

While walking down the "Christmas aisles" at Walmart today, I was greeted by a gentleman with a big smile and happy voice.  "Hello Sis. Elms!  How are you doing today?"  I answered I was doing great and asked how he was doing.  You know, the "usual" greeting.  He then went on to say, "We are doing great and looking for great things to happen in the New Year!"  He had my attention! I love positive statements! I shared with him the thought that had crossed my mind earlier today..."As I was leaving the camp ground awhile ago I got excited about all the events that's going to be happening in 2012 on the camp grounds, and I'm really looking forward to them."  "Oh yes, me too!" He replied.  Then, he went on to say, "I'm REALLY excited about our church and the revival we're going to have this year!"  He then went his way, and I went mine, but as I walked away my heart was lifted up just hearing about the "good things to come". Thank you, Bro. Shubert for the "happy encounter in the Christmas aisle" at Wal-Mart!

I cannot get away from Bro. Shubert's tone of voice.  The excitement and happiness he shared today will be with me for awhile.  I also can't get away from the fact that even though Bro. Shubert has pastored a long time and lived a lot of life, he was still excited about the work of God in his own church and in our district.

As people age, it's easy for some to forget all the good times of the past, and focus on the negative, causing them to be cynical, critical, skeptical, and negative. They've lived a lot of life, seen a lot of "things" happen, experienced disappointments, had struggles, and now on the "back side of life" they may have pain in their body and to be real honest, it would be a easier to grumble and complain than to be positive and looking forward to the future. Lord, help us all to focus on "good things" and to keep in mind that life goes on and there is a great future ahead for each one of us.

Without a vision...we perish! When we don't look forward...we go backward. When we're not positive...we become negative! We have a great future ahead this year! Yes, we have had our losses in our Apostolic movement, and we've hurt for those we love as they have gone through their loss. It hasn't been "fun" and at times we feel it will never be the same. Let me say...it won't! We've lost many giants of the faith, but we haven't lost the reason for having Apostolic revival! In fact, we have more reason than ever to have it! We are not alone! Somehow I feel all our loved ones are on the balcony of Heaven cheering us on. I can hear them saying..."Keep moving! Keep running! You're ahead in this race! You are winning! If you only knew what we KNOW you would run stronger and faster than you ever have. Keep the faith! Don't compromise! Don't give into the pressures of the outside! Stay focused! Preach truth! Pray! Fast! Commit! The finish line is just in sight! If you could only see what we see from up here...you would simply be AMAZED!"

I am planning on finishing this race! There are those who have veered to the right and to the left, but I'm "running with winning on my mind". I will not be detoured by those who want to get my attention off the goal. I will not listen to their talk of disdain and discontent. I am going to make it all the way!

As 2012 is quickly overtaking us, will you join me in a fresh commitment to keeping the faith, having a positive outlook and to showing the younger generations that what we've all "lived for" is truly worth "dying for"? Let's love one another like never before. Let's stay true to each other, more than ever. Let's support each other, and be loyal to the cause of the Kingdom. As a unified effort we can see greater victories, greater revival, and a greater harvest in 2012.

Faithful...Loyal...Giving

To be perfectly open and transparent, of which I am by nature, as I prepare to leave for another "home going service" of a dear, dear friend, Sis. Margie Becton, I am SAD! I just don't want to think about not seeing her smiling face, and hearing her kind voice when I go to a conference or service she would be attending.

My mind has been at work all day long about those who have gone on to their reward. They were some of the most faithful and loyal people I have ever known. As I have said in the past, I have no fear of the future of the gospel of Jesus Christ, because I know thousands who love the truth with all their hearts. With God's help, we will never give in to this world and what it has to offer, for it doesn't compare with "this great salvation" we hold dear. I am confident in this!

Where my mind has been going today is things like:

1. We've lost some "strong pillars" of the Church.
2. These pillars were faithful in all things.
3. These pillars were loyal to their friends, family, and our great organization.

Now, that's what I've been thinking. As I said in my earlier statements, I have no fear of truth being compromised in our organization, but sometimes I fear that the solid loyalty I have witnessed among our elders just might not be as strong and unshakeable in some of us. Please don't jump to conclusions before I am finished, you might hurt yourself. I ask you to "listen". I am asking all of us some questions that we need to answer.

1. Can I, can you honestly say that we are "strong pillars" of the Church?
2. Am I, are you, faithful in all things?
3. Am I, are you, loyal to your friends, family and our great organization?

I was raised in the United Pentecostal Church, International. All I've ever known is the beauty of being part of a group of people who love the lost, and are doing what they know to do to reach them. We have missionaries all over the world who have depended on us to help them carry the gospel. I have watched as millions of dollars has been given in a unified effort for the Kingdom of God. I am blessed to have seen this. I have stood in meetings all over our great fellowship and felt the awesome power of God sweep across a congregation of thousands, and could imagine what it will be like when we all get to Heaven. I have walked out of these services and walked into a sea of humanity looking for a friend or a family member, and couldn't hardly get through the crowd because there were so many friends and acquaintances wanting to talk and give me a hug. I wouldn't take anything for the love I have felt, and the encouragement I received by "just being there" in the midst of it all.

In my thinking about all of this today, I am making a new commitment to be more loyal than I've ever been. If anyone has something negative to say about what I've loved, please go say it to someone who will listen. I really don't want to hear or be a part of that which would bring a dark cloud to my spirit, and cause me to have to rummage through negativity that brings a heaviness to my heart.

One of the things I have noticed about great people is that they don't get down in the "mud pit of gossip" and be a part of a "mud slinging" contest. I know they must know things that are negative, but they wouldn't dare tell you what it is. Every time you see them they have a smile on their face and a welcome handshake or hug. They give love away! I have also observed they have a walk with God that you can feel when you're around them. When they are in the presence of God they are sober minded and won't let anything distract them from the message in song, or the Word of God being preached. After church, they will have their good time with their friends, but when they see you, they will make you feel like you're the only one that exists at the moment. Great people do not know they're "great", and that makes them "greater" to those watching from a distance. Because I have been a part of this organization, I have had the privilege of knowing "great people".

I guess I will close for now. I don't know that I can really express the things that are in my heart and mind. I do say all of this with a heart full of love. Nothing "negative" has happened that makes me write tonight...just a lot of my heroes are no longer living here on earth, and it makes me think. I'm thankful I have more heroes who are still with us. I can think of quite a few just off the top of my head. My heart is filled with love, honor and respect for those who have lived their life, giving of themselves in ministry so that all of us following can enjoy the blessings passed down to us. An old song comes to mind as I finish this post:

My heart can sing when I pause to remember
A heartache here is but a stepping stone
Along a trail that's winding always upward,
This troubled world is not my final home.

But until then my heart will go on singing,
Until then with joy I'll carry on,
Until the day my eyes behold the city,
Until the day God calls me home.

Sing Me A Song

Tonight I am sitting in my recliner with a fire in the fireplace that my sweet husband has kept going for several hours. It's COLD outside and for the last few days it seems the world around us has fallen asleep. Every now and then I see a bird come to the feeder outside my windows, but I haven't seen a squirrel in several days. Usually, they are at the feeder we put out for them, but not in this freezing weather. Before the freezing temperatures hit they came and filled their little tummy's, so I'm sure they are snuggled up in their warm "houses" waiting for things to thaw a bit before returning for more food.

While getting ready to turn in for the night, somewhere from the depth of my memory a chorus came to mind that I love to sing. I haven't heard it in a LONG time, and really wonder if anyone remembers it. It goes like this:

Just when I need someone to tell my troubles to.
Just when I feel down hearted and blue.
Just when it seems that I can't make it through.
Jesus hears and answers prayer.

I am not a "whiny-feel-sorry-for-me-type person", yet sometimes I need to be reminded that Jesus really does "hear and answer prayer". Right now as I type, I'm sure someone is wondering if I am "down", so before I go on let me put your minds at ease. I am FINE! In fact, I couldn't be more contented right now. I've got so much to be thankful for!

Now that I have made sure about that, I'll continue...

Some years ago I started hearing people say negative things about some of the songs we had sung for years. These people were not from our church, but some I happened to be around from time to time. They would say things like, "When we go to church we don't want to hear songs about people's problems and pain. We have enough of our own. We want to hear songs that lift us up and make us feel good." Although I do understand what they were saying, and at times have felt the same way, as I look back down the road we have traveled in life, I'm thinking that we might have left some of our "treasured songs" buried in the past. I have heard these songs referred to as "Story Songs" (said with a little smirk) Well...life is a story that is unfolding every day and we understand "stories". A story might be in a book, or in a song, and people understand and relate to "songs that tell a story". I love a lot of our Praise and Worship choruses of today, so I am not writing about "old vs. new". I enjoy a good up-beat song and different styles, but we must be careful that we're not singing a song that appeals to our carnality and surface feelings. Songs that touch the inner most part of our spirits and draws us closer to Jesus Christ is what we need to hear. We ought to "lift Jesus up" in the songs we sing, and we need to realize that people need to hear songs that tell them that Jesus knows and understands what they are going through.

Got any rivers you think are uncrossable?
Got any mountains you can't tunnel through?
God specializes in things thought impossible.
And He will do what no other power can do!

I have watched people with heavy hearts touched by the words and music of this chorus. Upon entering the doors of the sanctuary someone felt like they couldn't take another step, but as they sang and worshiped the One that "specializes in things thought impossible" I saw their load lifted.

Many things about tomorrow;
I don't seem to understand.
But I know Who holds tomorrow;
And I know Who holds my hand.

We all go through times of struggle and wonder if we're going to make it. We should not try to "gloss over" the FACT that people are facing terrible situations and they do not know what's going to happen. It's so easy for us to look at someone and become a "judge" and decide that "Their problem isn't all that bad. If they would have done "such and such" they wouldn't be going through so much." Yes, on and on it goes. People trying to be God and thinking they know how everyone else should act/react. OUCH! Where did that come from? Let's all be honest with OURSELVES and confess that we are GUILTY of becoming "the judge" at least once in our lives. :-)

In the dark of the midnight have I oft hid my face,
While the storm howls above me, and there's no hiding place.
'Mid the crash of the thunder, Precious Lord, hear my cry,
Keep me safe till the storm passes by.

Chorus
Till the storm passes over, till the thunder sounds no more,
Till the clouds roll forever from the sky;
Hold me fast, let me stand in the hollow of Thy hand,
Keep me safe till the storm passes by.

Many times Satan whispered, "There is no need to try,
For there's no end of sorrow, there's no hope by and by"
But I know Thou art with me, and tomorrow I'll rise
Where the storms never darken the skies.

When the long night has ended and the storms come no more,
Let me stand in Thy presence on the bright peaceful shore;
In that land where the tempest, never comes, Lord, may I
Dwell with Thee when the storm passes by.

Storms! Storms can scare you nearly to death! I have been in some terrible "thunder and lightning" storms and wondered if the high wind was going to destroy our house. On the other hand, I've been in our car with no other shelter when the skies turned dark and threatening. My brother, Keith, Wendell and I were traveling one time when all of a sudden a "storm came up" and almost before we knew it we were on the edge of a tornado. All traffic stopped on the highway afraid to go any further. As we sat there, the winds became so fierce that we were afraid of flying objects coming through the windows of the car and we felt the power of the wind lifting our car. Yes, I've been in some pretty scary "weather storms", but they do not compare to some of the "life storms" we've been through.

Everyone I know has gone through "life storms". Some of them were not as fierce as others, but ALL were storms, and whoever is in the storm wants to know that "it will pass" and all will be calm, again. The song above says: "But I know Thou art with me, and tomorrow I'll rise; where the storms never darken the skies." What a peace fills my heart when I hear these words! He is with me! I am not alone! He will bring me THROUGH the storm! It's not just another song...it's a "story about life, and Jesus, and knowing He will take care of me".

Whether we sing a "new song or old", we need to make sure the song we're singing has a "message" and it's not just "feel good words". A few weeks ago I wrote a "blog post" about songs I remember. Later a friend left a comment and I quote: "I love these songs! The first church I attended in Texico sang out of the song book all the time. These songs remind me of when God started to change my life, and they will always be precious to me." Thank you, Michelle. I couldn't say it any better!

Worship leaders...I invite you to step out of the norm. When you are preparing to lead worship through song, please don't choose a song or chorus just because it's "a song everyone is talking about". Don't choose it because you had a friend tell you that "this song will bring the glory down". Don't choose a song just because "it's the newest rage". Be sure and choose songs that come from a heart of thankfulness, and a knowledge of how God will come through for those who are sitting in your congregation needing to hear "He will take care of them". Choose songs after you have been in prayer and have a fresh touch of His Spirit resting on you. Choose songs that will minister first to HIM and then to those who are hurting. And...you just might want to reach WAY back and choose a song that was sung many years ago, but it's message is still NEW today.

I love to tell how Jesus saved my soul;
When I was lost and facing dark despair.
But mortal tongue could scarcely tell the whole;
Nor thank Him for such wondrous love and care.

Oh, He is more than all the world to me;
The dearest friend that I have ever known.
And it will take the whole eternity;
To thank Him for the love that He has shown.

Jumping to Conclusions Isn't Fun

Definition for Jumping to Conclusions: to judge or decide something without having all the facts; to reach unwarranted conclusions.

"The only exercise some people get is jumping to conclusions, running down their friends, side-stepping responsibility, and pushing their luck!" ~Author Unknown

While looking at pictures tonight of friends and those they love I saw people who are living life "to the best of their ability". They have had troubles and trials, been tested and tried, yet I saw people who love God and are doing their best in serving Him. I had a warm feeling come to my heart while thinking about my friends and their families. In my mind I could see them all together and knew the love and loyalty they feel. Why could I imagine that? Because, we all have family gatherings and have wonderful times with those we love. There's really not a whole lot of difference in the human race when it comes to "relationships". We were made to share our lives with each other, and none of us are complete and totally happy if we withdraw from family, or friends. It's wonderful being with family, and it's also wonderful being with friends.

I have no idea why I am thinking along these lines, except I have found that none of us are perfect. I know there is pain because of sickness, grief in losing a loved one, and disappointments for many reasons. I know everyone cannot have a smile on their face at all times, although we all really try to "put our best foot forward". This is LIFE and there are times we just can't bring ourselves to be that "happy, bubbly" person we know others are expecting. Life can be hard! Life can be frustrating! Life can bring on unpleasant "surprises"and there's not one thing we can do to stop it!

We have a God who understands those "hard, frustrating, unpleasant times", and I'm so glad He does. "To be like Jesus" is a cry of my heart. I want to show compassion and mercy like He showed! I'm not wanting to sound like I "know it all", but I know "what Jesus would do" if He saw one of us laden down with an unpleasant situation. I know for sure He would not condemn us, and would definitely have an encouraging word. I think He would even pat us on the shoulder to let us know, "it's going to be alright". I'm sure that when we walked away from Him we would know we were loved. A song I love says..."Mercy...rewrote my life! Mercy... rewrote my life! I should have fallen my soul cast down. But, mercy rewrote my life."

Our human nature causes us to "jump to conclusions"! We try to "figure it all out" and decide if "THEY would have done something different THEY wouldn't be in the situation THEY are in. If THEY would have done it the way we would have, that wouldn't have happened". Yes, we've all heard it. Yes, we've all said it. We all know that none of us are perfect, so let's remember to "do unto others as we would have them do unto us."

As we walk along this road called LIFE let's lend a hand to those who have lost their way. Let's make sure when we are with someone who has decided to "jump to conclusions" that we don't fall off the cliff with them. There will definitely be a rude awakening when they hit bottom, and they'll need you to pick them up and help them get their footing again.

After writing my thoughts tonight I ran across this quote that I liked. I would acknowledge who said it, but there was no one listed. (sorry) If they happen to run across my blog and see I used it I hope they would be happy to be quoted. LOL!

"Jumping to conclusions seldom leads to happy landings."

As our friend Ron Mullings wrote: "People Are Pitiful...and We're All People".

Always a Christian

I recently signed into a Chat Room, of which I never do, but since it was connected to a service I was watching online, I thought it would be okay. I quickly found out that not everyone has the "same purpose" for being there. I didn't read ALL of the comments, but as time progressed I noticed there was someone who took the liberty to "be the judge" of those who were speaking or singing at the service. I have no idea "who" this person was, and don't care to know, but I was disgusted to think they called themselves a Christian. After the degrading comments about people I loved and respected, and "listening" to others who were defending our friends, I decided I was better off to get out before I found myself in the "mix". It would have been easy to get caught up in defending those I loved, yet I knew it wouldn't do any good, because when bitterness takes root in someone's heart there is no one that can do anything about it except the one that is suffering from it.

I guess some people think it's okay to talk derogatory of others since they are typing on a computer and no one really knows who they are. But, let me say...It doesn't matter if you're face to face, talking on the phone, texting, talking online...or any other means of communication...we must be Christ-like at ALL times. I know no one is "perfect", but if we profess to be true believers we should make sure our actions line up to our profession. Any other actions should not be acceptable to us. I know God is not pleased with a forked tongue, a back biter, a tale bearer, or a spirit of criticism. God, help us ALL to be CHRISTLIKE at all times!

What Does THAT Mean?

We have all been around someone that seems to ALWAYS be "out of breath" from having SO MUCH to do! When you speak to them and ask how they are doing, you get an AVALANCHE of words telling you how BUSY they are, and how they just don't know HOW this happened. I can hear them now..."I plan and plan what I'm suppose to do, but INVARIABLY something comes up and OBLITERATES my plans! I don't know what I'm going to do! I've got to have this done and there is NO WAY POSSIBLE that I'll be finished by the time it's suppose to be finished!" (panic-panic) Off they go TRYING to get all their work done. After all, they are the ONLY one that knows how to do ALL of that work, and NO ONE really cares to LEARN, so "Poor-martyr-me" runs off to accomplish the WORK ahead.

I have to laugh at these people. I'm sorry if you're one of those, but people like this make me laugh. Do they REALLY believe they are the ONLY ONE that can do that JOB?

I loved watching my Mother when someone like this came around. She was always such a patient, loving, sweet LADY. Nothing seemed to "ruffle her feathers" and when they did she hid her feelings very well. But, for those very close friends and family members who knew her really well, we could read her. For instance...she had a way of "pursing her lips" that let you know she was perturbed about something. She also had a "twinkle in her eye" that only those who knew her well understood what it was about. When she was "put out" with someone she knew how to "ignore" without them knowing she was a "put out" with them. Now, you must understand, that her family knew what was happening, and for SURE Daddy knew. She didn't have to say anything to him and HE knew he "shouldn't have done that", or "shouldn't have said that". :) I loved watching Mother in "situations". She was much a queen!

When Mother happened to be around "Poor-martyr-me" she had a phrase she used. After one of these people walked away from her she would say: "They're always in a TIZZY!" She would shake her head just a little, and go about her own business in her own patient way. It was very seldom you would see HER in a TIZZY! There were times when I would get impatient about something and she would say..."Linda, sit down and don't get in such a TIZZY!" Some people use the word "dither", but they mean the same thing. I have never thought to look the word TIZZY up in the Dictionary until today, so I decided to after all these years. I found out that it really means exactly what she meant..."a nervous, excited, or distracted state". I didn't know if TIZZY was a REAL word, or if it was a word someone made up. It's definitely in the Dictionary, so someone, somewhere, sometime decided it was a good word to use for that "nervous, excitable, distracted" person.

For those who seem to "live in a TIZZY" why don't you try to RELAX a little, get some help to accomplish the job you're trying to get done, and learn to ENJOY LIFE? There are a lot of things in life that really aren't THAT urgent! It's usually "urgent" that steals away from "important" and when life is finished you find you've left the "important thing" undone. Live life with purpose and direction. Don't run around like "a chicken with its head cut off". (another one of Mother's sayings) Do your work, perform your duties well, and see if you can actually go through a day without being in a TIZZY. People would enjoy being around you more if you were more RELAXED!

I'm learning to live life more relaxed and not worry over what others think of what I've DONE or haven't DONE. Over the last 10 years I have learned a little more about what's important and what's not. I understand that "life is but a vapor...here today, gone tomorrow", and it's only the time spent building my relationship with God and what I can do for Him, my family, and my friends that really is the MOST IMPORTANT THING IN LIFE. For it's through these relationships that you find purpose, true love and fulfillment. So, with 360 days left in this year, I want to do my best to ENJOY what I'm doing, when I'm doing it, then sit back and ENJOY less stress and for sure not get in a TIZZY!

First Day of 2010

Sitting here tonight I reflect on the past and look forward into the future. No, I can't "see" what's going to happen in 2010, but I can say by faith that it's going to be a good year. Tiny thoughts try to infiltrate my mind and bring "fear of the unknown", but I do not let them linger long, because I know God is in control of 2010. When you realize He "calls the shots", then you can rest knowing you're in good hands!

January 1, 2010 has been a beautiful day starting out the new year with the sun shining, people smiling and saying "Happy New Year". I've heard the voices of family and friends talking about things they have enjoyed in 2009. Simple things, like a do-nut from a special do-nut shop, the world's largest Christmas store, church services and the moving of the spirit as they gathered to worship the Lord. I listened as stories were told and laughter rang out bringing lightness to our hearts. Ahhh...it's a beautiful life when you're living it for God, and sharing with others!

Earlier today Wendell was on the phone with his brother Royce and I got to enjoy their conversation as their voices came across the speakers of the car phone. I couldn't help but think how "the Elms brothers" have such a great relationship with each other, and the deep respect and love they share. Then, I heard Royce laugh! There is no one that can laugh quite like him, and when he gets started it is contagious! The other day, one of our sons mentioned that "someone needs to use Uncle Royce's laugh as a ringtone"! LOL! I couldn't agree more!

I really hope 2010 will be a GREAT year for all of my friends and family. There is so much sadness and stress in our world, so I wish you all the joy you can hold, and maybe it will splash over on someone who is going through a tough time. Relax, laugh a lot, touch someone with love, and you'll find it makes life so much more FUN!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

True Love...

"A new commandment I give to you, that you LOVE one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By THIS all people will know that you are my disciples... if you have LOVE for one another." (John 13:34-35, ESV)

True love...do you know what it is...if so, do you have it? Let's check and see.

According to 1 Cor. 13

Love is...

1. Patient

2. Kind

3. Does not envy

4. Does not boast

5. Is not arrogant

6. Is not rude

7. Does not insist on its way

8. Is not irritable

9. Is not resentful

10. Does not rejoice at wrong-doing

11. Rejoices with the truth

12. Bears all things

13. Believes all things

14. Hopes all things,

15. Endures all things

16. Love never ends

My "little brain" has been thinking today. These are some of my thoughts...for what it's worth:

When someone speaks to others in a demeaning way...is that love?

When you find it easy to "give a piece of your mind" and "tell someone off"...is that love?

When you treat a brother as if he is a "nobody"...is that love?

When you speak lies about someone...is that love?

When you knock them further down with hurtful words than they already are...is that love?

When you gossip and say hurtful things...is that love?

When you yell and scream at those you say you care about...is that love?

When you abuse them, emotionally or physically...is that love?

We are living in perilous times. Why don't we all STOP and CHECK our hearts and ask God to cleanse us from anything that would keep us from having TRUE LOVE. I've told God before that He knows my deepest thoughts, and can go into my heart, into the furtherest corner and see more than I can see. He knows what my motives are and the very tiny seeds of ugly spirits and attitudes that may be taking root that will spring up later with a putrid word or deed.

My heart cries out...CREATE IN ME A CLEAN HEART, OH GOD! RENEW IN ME A RIGHT SPIRIT!

David and Linda Visit...and A Lesson Remembered

We've had a wonderful week with David and Linda Elms. (Yes, there's another Linda Elms) They are absolutely some of the most wonderful people to be around. If you know David and Linda I know you agree with me. The only thing about them "coming" was that they had to "leave" and that made me sad! While they were here we took them to one of the restaurants we frequent pretty often and they loved it! We call it Dean's, but I think it has another name. I didn't know "for sure" if they would like it as much as we do, but found out real quick they did. In fact, Linda asked to go back again! She LOVED the home cooked vegetables, homemade desserts, and fried catfish.
We loved having them here! There is NOTHING like being with family when you can relax together, talk and laugh together, and sit in silence together. Just being together is so special!!!

Bro. Russo wanted to take David on a Texas horse ride while he was here, so he took David and Wendell out for a little while.

They loaded up and went ridin' in the wagon. David was having a good 'ole Texas time!
Last, but sure not least...My honey ridin'! I sure do love this man!!! Also, while they were here we sold our motorhome, so now we are living in the "Guest Apartment" on the camp ground. For those of you TEXAN'S who did not realize we have a "Guest Apartment" on the camp ground, you would probably recognize it more if I said "Nurse's Station". :) When there are no youth camps going on the Nurse's Station is converted into an apartment for visiting missionaries and minister's.

I am thankful I have a place to live! People ask, from time to time, if we've bought a house in Lufkin. We haven't bought a house, because ours has not sold in Wichita Falls. We are waiting, waiting, waiting!

I can hear Mother's voice from many years ago when I was a teenager. One night we were waiting for Daddy to finish talking to someone after church, and I was getting really impatient. Mother finally looked at me and said, "Linda, if you're going to marry a preacher you're going to have to learn to be patient!"

After several things happened this week, of which I will not go into at this time, I remembered that very night when I was told I "needed to learn to be patient while waiting on Daddy".
That was MANY years ago, but somehow when I was young I didn't connect that statement to my heavenly Father!

Yes, I have been waiting, and haven't been impatient with Him, but after events that have taken place this week, I have found myself getting impatient, and I heard Mother's voice, one more time, "Linda, if you're going to marry a preacher....you're going to HAVE TO LEARN TO BE PATIENT!"

"Yes, Mother...I am still learning what it means to WAIT! Hopefully, I will pass the "patience test" this time!"

Greatness Comes In "Dedicated Packages"

I really do not have the time to sit down and "blog" this morning, but when answering an email awhile ago I decided to go ahead and write a "thought" that HIT me. :) Most of the time that's how I "come up with" my posts. Here is what I wrote my friend.

It is funny how all the different personalities keep the world turning. If it wasn’t for the “planners”, all of us who just “love living” would get nowhere. If it wasn’t for the “loving life….just for the fun of it” people, the “planners” wouldn’t have as much fun! LOL! Of course, I’m just kidding, but it is interesting to watch.

Speaking of different personalities….I was thanking Jason Matthews the other day for all the hard work he does, and his reply was so typical of a TRUE musician/sound tech who LOVES God and ENJOYS his "talents and abilities". He said, “You know, this is FUN to me! People think that’s a little crazy, but I really do LOVE it!” He was saying this as he took down the P.A. system in the heat. On Saturday he had driven to Lufkin to pick up sound equipment, drove back, then set it up on Sunday morning…it took him hours, it seemed, to get it all done. Then Sunday afternoon, he played for different groups, sang, ran the P.A. (with some help) and took it down while everyone was “playing”! Monday morning he was going to drive back to Lufkin to drop it off, and that was all for ONE outdoor concert that lasted TWO HOURS at the most!!!!!! There’s going to be a special place in Heaven for such love and dedication.

Note: I may not have all the "days" correct for the "happenings" in Jason's schedule, but I think it's pretty close.

Now, let me say, "I have known this kind of dedication in SO MANY PEOPLE through life and I want to say THANK YOU to all of you who fall under this category. You LOVE where God has placed you and you LOVE using your talents for the Lord. Your deepest desire is to see the Kingdom of God grow, and whatever you need to do, you do it with all your heart, and "go beyond the call of duty".

I will not make a list of the people I know that are this dedicated, but I will say that in EVERY church there are people like this! SOMEBODY has to "help keep the church going" and it just may be YOU! It's not just in the music department where these kind of people live. It may be something totally "behind the scenes" that no one knows about, but EVERYONE is important to the Kingdom of God!

I read this quote this morning by Winston Churchill, and I said to myself, "that is perfect for the thoughts that have been flooding my mind".

We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.

This quote is SO TRUE! We must work to make a living and I thank God that He gives us this ability, but life wouldn't be worth living if we never "gave" of ourselves! The following quote by Benjamin Franklin pretty well wraps this whole thought up.

A man wrapped up in himself makes a very small bundle.

Oh, how I wish I could express my appreciation for those of you who "keep the fire burning" in your churches.

Pastor
Pastor's Wife
Musician
Sound tech
Drama Director
Sunday School teacher
Bus Driver
Outreach Director
Assistant Pastor and wife
Youth Minister, Ladies Director
Music Minister
Maintenance/Building Overseer
Administrator, Secretary
Prayer Warrior
Children Minister
Outreach Director

There is no way to name all the "ministries of a church", but let me just say....THANK YOU for your UNSELFISH GIVING to the Kingdom! If it wasn't for EVERY one of YOU, God's work would go "unfinished". THANK YOU for your EXCELLENT SERVICE to God and your church. If you are a minister and minsiter's wife of the United Pentecostal Church...THANK YOU for your never ending love and support to see a great organization continue in preaching Truth! We really NEED each other and EVERYONE has something they can GIVE!

I don't know who said it, but I will end with this..."Love isn't love until you give it away."

Slouching In the Pew

The year? I don't recall. All I know is that I was a very young girl sitting in church and I heard my Daddy say,

"Men, when you come to church you need to sit up in your pew and not slouch! Look like you are interested in what is going on!"

Those words made an impression on me and years later they still come to mind.


Many years later...

"Boys, you are both old enough to sit up in church! Don't slouch down and put your head on the back of the pew. You need to pay attention to what's going on in church!"

"But, Mom! I'm tired!"

That's fine, but you're not too tired to run and play after church! You will stay awake if you "sit up and listen! You can sleep when you get home!"

Someplace, at a gathering...from several rows behind a "woman of God"...

"(laughter) What do YOU think about that? (more laughter)"

"Oh yeah! Me too!" (laughter)

Yes,while people are praying and getting close to God!

A little later when I walked by and gave the little lady a hug, she said,

"It's so sad when people make light of the things of God!"

There was hurt in her voice as she shook her head.

I know I'm "plowing deep" as the old preacher would say, but I just have this nagging feeling down deep in my heart that "we need to sit up and take notice" and "quit slouching in our pew" when it comes to the things of God!

I have seen it, and you have seen it! We've all watched as the "slouchers" would say things about a sermon that was preached, and question if it came from God, or if the one delivering it "had a bone to pick".

We should get real uncomfortable when someone wants to "pick the message apart" and "question the motives" of the one delivering it. I am sure I have been guilty of listening to the "sloucher", and said my thoughts when I should have said nothing. I should have walked away from that "attitude". We all get caught when we're not praying and taking the work of God, and the Word of God serious.

As a young lady I would go to youth conference, youth camp, and camp meeting and hear men of God preach their "convictions". Maybe some things were "gray areas" as some would say, but who was I to question whether or not they were "gray areas". I don't think I knew "gray areas" existed when I was growing up. When a man of God preached, I needed to examine my heart! So, at the end of the message I would find a place to pray and ask God to cleanse me and change me if I needed to. ABOVE ALL ELSE I wanted to be saved! The tenderness of heart, sincerity in living for God, and the love for godliness, holiness and separation from the world was preached without fear or favor, and I benefited from the "old plow" digging deep into the soil of my heart!

If this isn't what you expected to read when you clicked on my blog, I'm sorry, but I'm not sorry for saying what I feel. I don't want to "slouch in my pew" and "laugh away" the preached Word. I don't want to find myself one day standing at the judgement and hearing Him say, "Sorry, I never knew you!"

Let's all ask ourselves this question: "Am I "slouching" or "sitting up straight"?

Today

You know...it's nice to be able to live "just one day at a time". There is no way to go back to the "past", and you sure can't go into the "future", so why not just "live today". I have always been the type of person to live in the NOW. Maybe that's why I can't remember what happened "yesterday". :) That's just the way I like it, unless I need to remember something important, then, I have to really "put my mind to it" and figure out...."what was that I needed to remember"?

Today has been a much better day than the last few. Since my "graceful falling" in my motorhome...(how can anyone fall in a motorhome? :)...I am doing FINE. My husband is doing much better with his "poison ivy" attack. As soon as we realized what he had we called the doctor to get a prescription to get this "terrible stuff" under control. If we do not catch it soon enough it will definitely "feel at home" and take over his entire body! How dare it feel so comfortable and invade unmercifully?

Being happy and living life with a positive attitude is not easy for some folks. They always see the "big, bad, ugly", and negative side of situations. Then, there are the folks who just LOVE LIFE no matter what's happening. We have all been around both of these kind of people. How do people go through life always LOOKING for the bad? How does anyone live with them? How can you stay around someone who is always grumbling and complaining? No, I don't have anyone in mind. I'm just thinking and typing. I hope all who read this do not have this problem, but I'm sure there's got to be just one or two in all the "MILLIONS" of people who read my blog that do! :) Did I really just say that? LOL!

The year I turned thirty-four I was talking to my brother on the phone, and with a little "unhappy" sound in my voice I said, "I can't believe I am 34 YEARS OLD today!!!" On the other end of the line I heard Keith say, "Well, that's better than the alternative!" In a way I wanted to jump through the phone and "hit him", of course in a playful way. He always had a way of putting things that made it look like fun. Even if I WAS getting OLD! I love being around people who see the "bright side of life".

My brother-in-law, David, is probably one of the most positive people I have ever been around! I remember a time when he was going through a very trying time, but to talk to him you would have never known it! Thank you David for showing us the "bright side of life".

I don't really know why I'm writing this tonight. I sometimes go off in a direction that I wasn't planning on going. It feels good, so I think I'll keep going.

When we were evangelizing MANY years ago, we were in our motorhome travelling through the Salt Canyon in Arizona. It was HOTTER THAN BLUE BLAZES, as my mother would say, and our motorhome started cutting out. We turned off ALL air conditioners, took the cover off of the engine (inside the motorhome)so my husband could hold the carburetor open, pour gas in it, just to give it enough power to make it to the other side of the canyon! It got up to 120 degrees in the motorhome, and we were doing our best to keep a good attitude. But, when you're an evangelist, and you don't know where you're going to get the money to FIX whatever is wrong, you get a little scared. What if we had to put out THOUSANDS of dollars to keep going? By the time we got to Tommy and Judy Hudson's house we were "fit to be tied"!! When we started telling Bro. Hudson what was going on and all of our "fears", he started LAUGHING about it. We looked at him as if he had lost his mind, and I think it made him laugh harder. After a little while of laughter from him, WE started LAUGHING!!! It might have been a little "hysterical laughter", but I can say it was probably the best thing that could have happened to us. We found out later there was just a tiny pin-hole in the gas line causing air to be where fuel SHOULD have been! We found out real fast that motorhomes do not run on air!!! It was just a "tiny, little, something" that was taking our joy away. We learned a valuable lesson that day from Tommy Hudson. "DON'T TAKE LIFE SO SERIOUSLY!" Thank you, Bro. Hudson!

Oh, I guess I could go on and on about things that happen and people who have helped me see the "brighter side" of life, but I will stop there.

We are in Euless tonight. We arrived here not long ago, and we walked into a beautiful Evangelist Quarters!! We are thankful to the McLaughlin's for a wonderful place to relax. We are looking forward to the weekend services. I know the presence of God will be here to do great things for those in attendance!

My heart is overflowing with the "goodness of our God"! He's a GREAT, BIG, WONDERFUL GOD!

Time to Laugh

LOL! I just get tickled thinking about what I'm fixing to post! LOL!

You've already heard about my "beautiful FALL" this week. WELL....NOW MY HUSBAND IS BROKEN OUT WITH POISON IVY! No, it's not funny, because he is pretty miserable. We do not have ANY IDEA where he got it!!!

It's amazing how "little things" can attack all at once! I just have to shake my head and say....."oh well....".

I think we could use a little extra prayer!!!! :)

Crazy How Things Happen

It can be a perfectly beautiful day...all things going great, then all of a sudden CRASH!

I was taking care of household duties, going about my own business when I came CRASHING to the floor!!!! Where did THAT come from? My right leg went straight out in front of me, my left leg went behind me and under my body as I fell on my back!!! The whole back of my clothes was soaking wet and I was hurting. What I didn't know was that my washer had a sprung a leak and there was a puddle of soapy water waiting for me to SLIDE through it! When I finally got my senses, and could roll over and get up, I went outside and turned off the water and there was water flowing out from under the motorhome, out of three of the "underneath compartments".
I am okay, although a little sore and achy. I thank God that the only "visible sign" of my fall is a skinned up foot! It could be a cast on my arm, leg, foot, neck, or back! :)

Isn't it crazy how life can be wonderful and something so "unexpected" can happen and turn your world upside down for a little while?

Yesterday we had some dark clouds overhead, but just passed the dark clouds was a beautiful white cloud with the sun shining through it. My husband said, "Look there! The sun is still shining somewhere." Yes! The "sun is still shining somewhere". It may not be in "your world" at this moment, but someone is enjoying the "sunshine".

One thing I love about my life with God is that I might have a "dark cloud" overhead one day, but He won't let it stay for long!! He will make sure that in the middle of my "overcast day" the sun will shine and break through the clouds, giving me the warmth of His presence to make it!

Savanna's "Celebration Week"

This week has been a lot of fun. We have celebrated Savanna's birthday for the last three days! :) On her birthday, July 16, we went to the mall to let her jump on the "Bungee Jump". Scarlet was going to join her, but got scared at the last minute. Savanna knew she was going to celebrate her birthday on Friday with friends, so she's enjoyed her "week". Yesterday, we went to Build-a-Bear. That was my gift to her. It took us quite a while to finish there, but when we got home she was happy with her new "kitty cat". She named her "Amelia". Then, today was her party! We had a nice time and she had a lot of FUN being with her friends. She also got to have a "girls sleep-over" at Rachel's house. They were all excited!

One day while we were out eating, Savanna was talking to a lady about her birthday, and the lady gave her $20! When Savanna got back to the table and told us about it we got excited with her, then Jonathan asked, "Savanna, what is the first thing you're suppose to do with your money?" She thought for a minute then asked, "Save it?" She had several more "guesses", then Jonathan spent a little time explaining to her the concept of "tithing". He then walked away from the table. Savanna sat there in deep thought with a very serious, questioning look on her face, then she looked at me and said, "I still don't understand!" I assured her we would explain it to her some more and she would understand. Then she said, "Mimi, I don't want to learn it when I'm SEVEN! I want to learn it when I'm EIGHTEEN!" I couldn't help but laugh!!! LOL! What a classic!

I wonder how many of us have said something like this when we knew God was dealing with us about something, yet we didn't WANT to do what He was telling us we needed to do? "But, God....I really don't want to "learn" about this NOW! I'm not quite READY to do what you've asked me to do!"

I think we might be a better person if we would STOP and LISTEN to what a child has to say. We just might learn something about ourselves!

Some Thoughts and Hudson, TX

As I have already said in my last post, our life has been very busy, but let me say...we are loving it! Janet, from home, just left a comment saying, "It looks like ya'll are having the time of your life." I will affirm her observation. Let me explain, though. I have made it a point to "live in the NOW". I have enjoyed each stage of life and I continue to do so. My mother was the MOST CONTENTED lady I've ever known, and I have always wanted to be "just like her". I don't believe I have attained her level, and probably never will, but she sure gives me a goal to reach for.

When you're in the "will of God", following His leading, how can you be unhappy? I know there are places I have said I would NEVER want to live, and Lufkin was one of those places. But, I can honestly say that I am really enjoying living here! I am enjoying my husband "going to the office" and returning home around 5:00 each day. When he's through at the office, he locks the door and we have the evening free unless he is preaching someplace. I LOVED being a Pastor's wife to the wonderful people God placed in our lives, but now I am enjoying where God has placed my husband. Why make yourself miserable? I'm just happy being married to the man I'm married to, and wherever God leads him...I will follow. Don't get me wrong! I've had to "die to self" many times in my life. I have cried many tears when leaving those I loved so much. It wasn't fun telling our wonderful saints that we were leaving, because God had chosen it to be so. But, the life I have been given has been wonderful. Why am I saying all of this tonight? :) I really don't know. I just felt like saying it, I guess.

Now, to our weekend service in Hudson, Texas. Hudson is a town that is connected to Lufkin. In fact, you wouldn't know you were leaving Lufkin if you didn't see a sign telling you that you've just entered the City Limits of Hudson. Bro. and Sis. Ron Smith retired a few years ago and really did not plan on pastoring again. They moved to Hudson (Lufkin), bought a little house, fixed it up and moved in. They sold a lot of things when they left their home and church in Huntsville, TX. I don't know all the things that happened that directed them back into pastoring, but they are doing a wonderful work in Hudson.
Sunday morning we decided to visit their church since we were not ministering anyplace else.
We are so glad we went! They were so sweet and welcoming to us and we thoroughly enjoyed being in the Sunday School and Morning Worship with them. Jeff Jones taught the lesson and did a fine job! We were asked to sing, so we did. They seemed to enjoy it. Then, Bro. Smith preached a wonderful, heartfelt message! He made me want to live for God even more. Thank God for preacher's who preach "the message" with love.

After church the Smith's invited us to eat lunch with them. They took us to Ralph and Kacoo's, then took us around town to show us places to live whenever our house sells in Wichita Falls. They drove us by Bro. and Sis. Neely's house and we really enjoyed seeing where they have lived for a long time. We had a wonderful time visiting with them! We even had to stop and get a "DIET COKE" (Bro. Kenny) LOL!

It's amazing how many preachers and their wives we have "known", yet have not "known" through the years!! LOL! That's a little catchy, isn't it? We have talked about how we almost feel like we are in a "brand new district" since moving to Lufkin. We are learning of towns "we have never heard of", and meeting people we have heard of, yet "had never met". Wow! It's quite a change being in the "middle of things" since we've been so far away for about 28 years. Living in Wichita Falls, we were closer to two or three other District Campgrounds, than we were to our own Texas District Campground. Now, we're living ON the Campground! It's exciting and fun...even in our motorhome. Of course, that is another story. Wendell is the one wanting a house! :) Oh well, someday it will happen.

Paul wrote in Phil. 4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.

I'm sure I will enjoy a house when I get another one, but until then, we will be content living on the ole' camp ground, enjoying where we have been placed in His Kingdom. What better life can you ask for?

Sand or Gravel?

The other night I walked into the Concession Stand after a wonderful service with the Crusader's and was greeted by my husband with a smile, and with these words. "I might as well go ahead and tell you...." I stopped and looked at him to see what it was he was going to tell me. He had gone fishing with some friends and my first thought was, "You got an ant bite or came close to being stung by a red wasp." Of which, I am glad it was neither one! He can't afford to have either one of these things happen, because he is highly allergic to both of them. The doctor told him he needs to be extra careful because, "the next time could be fatal". Anyway, I was relieved when he told me "the story".

Before he left to go fishing he said, "I might not take my phone with me, because "so and so" seems to always lose his phone in the lake whenever he takes it", so Wendell thought it would be safer to just leave his. Then, he decided to go ahead and take it "just in case" someone needed him. When he got on the boat he looked around and found a real deep, "safe" cupholder to put the phone and glasses in.

They had a wonderful time catching fish! About 3 hours later Wendell went to get his phone out of the cupholder. It was still there just like he thought it would be, but when he got it out it was SOAKING WET! It had rained earlier in the day and the cupholder had quite a lot of water in it. Now, that is something no one thought to check!!!

Do you remember the OTHER iPhone he had a few months ago that was left on top of the car, it fell off, several cars ran over it, and I posted about the SMASHED iPhone? Well, now we have a WATER LOGGED iPhone!!!!! Oh, it looks good on the OUTSIDE, but the INSIDE is in BAD SHAPE! I could teach another lesson about THIS iPhone!

I felt so bad for my husband that I couldn't even get aggravated about it. I just shook my head and said, "Oh well....I guess you'll have to buy another one!"

We went to buy another one today, and wouldn't you know...there are NO iPhones to be found! They didn't even have them at Apple. They said they have sold out and the new one will not be out until July. We were in the store for 2 hours trying to get another phone set up!!! Finally, they called "tech" and they got the problem solved after working for quite a long time on the problem.

We got home and after several hours of my husband "messing" with the new one I think he has decided that when the NEW iPhone comes out he will be taking this one back and exchanging it! Of course, they told him he could when he bought it.

Bro. Graham preached a message at Camp Meeing about "sand in your shoes". It was fantastic! I think we have decided that some of the "sand we've had in our shoes" lately has turned itself into GRAVEL!!!! :) But, I guess "gravel" is really better than "sand", because you can pick the "gravel" up a lot easier and get rid of it. With "sand" it takes a lot more time and effort for it to be totally gone! Besides, it's just an iPhone that's ruined....not our attitude, or spirit, or anything that REALLY matters!

God, Friends, Family, and Life

"THIS is the day that the Lord has made. I WILL rejoice and be glad in it!"

Sometimes we go through life waiting on someONE or someTHING to MAKE us joyful. Don't wait on "happenings" to make you HAPPY! Enjoy God, life, friends and family NOW! There are many people talking about how FAST "life" goes by. Their "little girl, or little boy" is getting close to graduating from high school,or college, or has just left Kindergarten and is going into 1st grade next year. I have come to the conclusion that it doesn't matter the age of the parents or the age of the children, LIFE just blows right by and we are left saying, "Where did the years go?". So, once again I say, MAKE MEMORIES while you have the "kids" at home. But, remember "MEMORY MAKING" doesn't END when the kids are gone.

Tomorrow I will be "making memories" with my sister and brother-in-law, Ronda and Nathan. I knew they were coming our way, but I just talked to her on the phone and they have arrived in Houston, and are traveling our direction! We won't see them tonight, but we will have a good visit for the next day or so. I'm real EXCITED!

A little while ago I got an "IM" from a friend and while talking about "things", they said, "Guess what?" I responded with "What?". Finally, after the "guessing game" and I couldn't guess the answer they said, "Well, I love you! That's it!" Ahhhh! Life is so much fun when you have friends who GIVE LOVE AWAY!

I'm rambling a little tonight, but I just wanted to say, I love God, my life, family, and friends! Thank you for being SO WONDERFUL! (That's what another friend always says to me.) So, I pass it on to you!

Now, ENJOY TODAY! For "THIS is the day...."