The "little impression" came ever so gently, so gently that I hardly
noticed it. I breathed a prayer, yet it came again, as if a feather
drifting in the wind touched my thoughts. There was something about it
that I couldn't ignore. I once again prayed. "Jesus, please keep your
hand on Wendell as he walks outside today. Don't let him be hit by a
car. I plead your blood over him in Jesus Name! Amen."
It
was a little while later when my husband came back to the room. The
first words out of his mouth were, "I've never come so close to being
hit by a car like I was today. A policeman driving the car was coming
right at me and when he was 4-6 feet from me, he jerked so he wouldn't
hit me!" I breathed a prayer of thankfulness that my husband had not
been hit, and that God had whispered into my spirit to pray for
protection! There's power in prayer!
It amazes me
how God works. I was just going about my morning when the "little
impression" came. It came so softly that I could have brushed it aside
and went about my day. I fully believe if prayer had not been made, if
the blood of Jesus had not been applied, that Wendell would have been
hit by a careless driver and badly injured, possibly killed. I'm so
thankful God I listened to the "voice of God" that morning, and whispered a
simple prayer.
"Oh how He loves you and me..."
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Sunday, February 10, 2013
He Preached With Passion
A message my dad preached when I was a teenager came to me this evening..."Seven Barriers to Hell" I do not remember all of the seven, although I'm sure I could come up with them, but I know one of the barriers was; the prayers of your mom and dad, or someone who loved you. He went on to preach..."To go to hell you will have to trample over the prayers of the ones who loved you more than life, and if you continue in your ungodliness, as you go over the precipice of hell you'll hear the voice of your mother (father) ringing in your ears...OH GOD PLEASE SAVE MY CHILD!" I cannot figure out how a person who knows truth can be so unfeeling after hearing their mom or dad crying out to God for their soul. Neither can I imagine a parent who knows truth continuing in their "happy-go-lucky-sinful way" when they know that their child's heart breaks in prayer. I thought about apologizing for such a serious, heavy post, however I feel like someone might be standing in the valley of decision. What will your answer be?
Tuesday, February 05, 2013
SURPRISE!
From the time I can remember my family has loved to "surprise" each other. Many times through the years Daddy and Mother would show up "unannounced" and we would be SO SURPRISED to see them standing at our door.
Our little family was living in North Carolina where we had gone to start a church, and I was very homesick. I really missed my parents, and missed seeing all of our family and friends in Texas. Jonathan and Andrew were little guys, and I wanted them to be around their grandparents, but God had called us to start a church, so we went. I cannot say it was the easiest thing we had ever done, but His will had led us there, and we would be okay. One day I got a call from Daddy and while we were talking I asked him if they could come and see us. He told me all the reasons why they could not come at that time. When I hung up I was very sad and disappointed. Fast forward...
About five days later we had gone to some friends house to eat dinner. When we arrived they invited us into their family room to sit down and visit awhile before we ate. I hadn't quite made it to the couch to sit down when a door opened and standing there was DADDY and MOTHER! I was speechless, and looked at Wendell and the boys where they were sitting on the couch, and they were stunned! No one moved except me! I tried to talk and make some sense, then realized I was about to faint from the "surprise" that was standing in the doorway! I do not remember if I hugged them before or after I sat down. Our friends were thrilled that we were so surprised, and that they had been a part of keeping a secret.
Through the years I've thought about that awesome time in my life when something I wanted so badly happened so UNEXPECTEDLY! After that experience, I really believe I know how the disciples felt when Jesus appeared to them after His resurrection. :-)
As they said these things, Jesus himself stood among them, and said to them, "Peace be to you." But they were terrified and filled with fear, and supposed that they had seen a spirit. He said to them, "Why are you troubled? Why do doubts arise in your hearts? See my hands and my feet, that it is truly me. Touch me and see, for a spirit doesn't have flesh and bones, as you see that I have." When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet...then He said to them, "This is what I told you, while I was still with you..." (Luke 24:36-49)
Jesus was God, manifested in the flesh, and since we are made in his image I like to imagine how excited Jesus was when he was about to enter the house where his friends were gathered. (I know how I would be if I was getting ready to walk in on my friends.) They were not expecting him at all, and he was anxious to see their faces when he "appeared!" A smile probably came across his face as he thought, "The shock is going to be priceless! I can't wait to surprise them! I wonder if they picked up anything in our conversation that would make them believe I would actually come see them again?" After he had been there a little while and everyone finally calmed down, I can hear him say, with a twinkle in his eyes..."I told you so!" :-)
Have you ever had Jesus tell you something? Sure you have! You may have been in prayer and deep in your spirit he spoke and let you know what he was about to do. You might have been reading the Bible, and it seemed like a light came on in your mind and you saw something you had never seen before. When that happened you knew without a doubt that God had spoken to you! Maybe you got a phone call and the person calling said, "I was praying and God told me to call you. I don't know what it's all about, but He wants you to know...." At that moment, once again you know you heard from God!
Then, there are times it seems as if the windows of heaven are locked tight, and your prayers are not getting through to him. We pray...no answer. We fast...no answer. We testify about what we're expecting...no answer. We claim our promise...still there's no answer! Yes, there are those times, and you wonder, "Where is God? Why doesn't he answer?"
Friend...don't be downhearted! Jesus could be standing on the other side of the door waiting for that perfect time when you are least expecting him. Just as you step into the room where he's planned to meet you, he'll open the door, smile, and say..."SURPRISE! Here's your ANSWERED PRAYER!" After you realize what has actually taken place, and you're over the shock, you will see a big smile come across his face as you hear him say..."I told you I'd do it!"
Our little family was living in North Carolina where we had gone to start a church, and I was very homesick. I really missed my parents, and missed seeing all of our family and friends in Texas. Jonathan and Andrew were little guys, and I wanted them to be around their grandparents, but God had called us to start a church, so we went. I cannot say it was the easiest thing we had ever done, but His will had led us there, and we would be okay. One day I got a call from Daddy and while we were talking I asked him if they could come and see us. He told me all the reasons why they could not come at that time. When I hung up I was very sad and disappointed. Fast forward...
About five days later we had gone to some friends house to eat dinner. When we arrived they invited us into their family room to sit down and visit awhile before we ate. I hadn't quite made it to the couch to sit down when a door opened and standing there was DADDY and MOTHER! I was speechless, and looked at Wendell and the boys where they were sitting on the couch, and they were stunned! No one moved except me! I tried to talk and make some sense, then realized I was about to faint from the "surprise" that was standing in the doorway! I do not remember if I hugged them before or after I sat down. Our friends were thrilled that we were so surprised, and that they had been a part of keeping a secret.
Through the years I've thought about that awesome time in my life when something I wanted so badly happened so UNEXPECTEDLY! After that experience, I really believe I know how the disciples felt when Jesus appeared to them after His resurrection. :-)
As they said these things, Jesus himself stood among them, and said to them, "Peace be to you." But they were terrified and filled with fear, and supposed that they had seen a spirit. He said to them, "Why are you troubled? Why do doubts arise in your hearts? See my hands and my feet, that it is truly me. Touch me and see, for a spirit doesn't have flesh and bones, as you see that I have." When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet...then He said to them, "This is what I told you, while I was still with you..." (Luke 24:36-49)
Jesus was God, manifested in the flesh, and since we are made in his image I like to imagine how excited Jesus was when he was about to enter the house where his friends were gathered. (I know how I would be if I was getting ready to walk in on my friends.) They were not expecting him at all, and he was anxious to see their faces when he "appeared!" A smile probably came across his face as he thought, "The shock is going to be priceless! I can't wait to surprise them! I wonder if they picked up anything in our conversation that would make them believe I would actually come see them again?" After he had been there a little while and everyone finally calmed down, I can hear him say, with a twinkle in his eyes..."I told you so!" :-)
Have you ever had Jesus tell you something? Sure you have! You may have been in prayer and deep in your spirit he spoke and let you know what he was about to do. You might have been reading the Bible, and it seemed like a light came on in your mind and you saw something you had never seen before. When that happened you knew without a doubt that God had spoken to you! Maybe you got a phone call and the person calling said, "I was praying and God told me to call you. I don't know what it's all about, but He wants you to know...." At that moment, once again you know you heard from God!
Then, there are times it seems as if the windows of heaven are locked tight, and your prayers are not getting through to him. We pray...no answer. We fast...no answer. We testify about what we're expecting...no answer. We claim our promise...still there's no answer! Yes, there are those times, and you wonder, "Where is God? Why doesn't he answer?"
Friend...don't be downhearted! Jesus could be standing on the other side of the door waiting for that perfect time when you are least expecting him. Just as you step into the room where he's planned to meet you, he'll open the door, smile, and say..."SURPRISE! Here's your ANSWERED PRAYER!" After you realize what has actually taken place, and you're over the shock, you will see a big smile come across his face as you hear him say..."I told you I'd do it!"
Sunday, February 03, 2013
"YET?"
We've come this far by faith...leaning on The Lord.
Trusting in His Holy Word; he's never failed me, yet.
Oh-h-h-h-h can't turn around; we've come this far by faith.
This is an old song and we've sung it for years. It makes me want to keep traveling on! There are many things that would try to stop us and discourage us from our goal, but don't look back! Keep traveling!
I do have to smile when this song comes to mind, because every time I sing it, and other songs about The Lord never failing us..."YET"...I think of an evangelist that came to preach for us. One night he said, "I don't like songs that say, "He's never failed us, "YET" because Jesus will NEVER FAIL US! He had a great point! I NEVER have to worry about Him not coming through on His promises! He always has, and always will!
"Failure is NOT an option when it comes to Almighty God!" If someone were to ask Him if he ever failed to fulfill a promise, I believe He would look at them with a puzzled look and ask..."FAIL?" Then, with a confidence that only God has, His next few words would echo into the hearts of men and women around the world... "I don't know HOW to fail!"
I believe the same "puzzled look" comes across His face when satan goes to him and brings up someone's sin from the past. I can almost hear Him saying..."Ummm...SIN? What sin?" The most powerful truth lies in the fact that Jesus loved us so much that He died for our sins! Once we have our sins washed away, using His Name in baptism, He remembers our sin no more!
My conclusion is this...Jesus loved us enough to die for us, so why wouldn't He take care of us in our struggles, pain, heartache, and disappointments? His promises are SURE! His love is unending! He LOVES taking care of US! Knowing this, I can go to Him with full confidence, because He loves me and promised to NEVER fail me!
Another song comes to mind. As a child I remember hearing it. It was slow and only had a few words, but oh the impact it had when it was sung. After living my life, and going through situations where only God had the answer, I understand this song so much more. Let me "sing it" for you...
J-E-S-U-S...never...fails!
J-E-S-U-S...never...fails!
Heaven and earth may pass away......
But, J-E-S-U-S...never...fails!
Trusting in His Holy Word; he's never failed me, yet.
Oh-h-h-h-h can't turn around; we've come this far by faith.
This is an old song and we've sung it for years. It makes me want to keep traveling on! There are many things that would try to stop us and discourage us from our goal, but don't look back! Keep traveling!
I do have to smile when this song comes to mind, because every time I sing it, and other songs about The Lord never failing us..."YET"...I think of an evangelist that came to preach for us. One night he said, "I don't like songs that say, "He's never failed us, "YET" because Jesus will NEVER FAIL US! He had a great point! I NEVER have to worry about Him not coming through on His promises! He always has, and always will!
"Failure is NOT an option when it comes to Almighty God!" If someone were to ask Him if he ever failed to fulfill a promise, I believe He would look at them with a puzzled look and ask..."FAIL?" Then, with a confidence that only God has, His next few words would echo into the hearts of men and women around the world... "I don't know HOW to fail!"
I believe the same "puzzled look" comes across His face when satan goes to him and brings up someone's sin from the past. I can almost hear Him saying..."Ummm...SIN? What sin?" The most powerful truth lies in the fact that Jesus loved us so much that He died for our sins! Once we have our sins washed away, using His Name in baptism, He remembers our sin no more!
My conclusion is this...Jesus loved us enough to die for us, so why wouldn't He take care of us in our struggles, pain, heartache, and disappointments? His promises are SURE! His love is unending! He LOVES taking care of US! Knowing this, I can go to Him with full confidence, because He loves me and promised to NEVER fail me!
Another song comes to mind. As a child I remember hearing it. It was slow and only had a few words, but oh the impact it had when it was sung. After living my life, and going through situations where only God had the answer, I understand this song so much more. Let me "sing it" for you...
J-E-S-U-S...never...fails!
J-E-S-U-S...never...fails!
Heaven and earth may pass away......
But, J-E-S-U-S...never...fails!
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
What Do You Fear?
Through the years I have said, and prayed..."Oh God, PLEASE don't let me be deceived!" I have also heard others voice their fear of "being deceived."
The other day I was reading my Bible and I saw something I hadn't "seen" before. The more I think about it, the bigger this subject gets. Here is the scripture that caught my attention. Oh yes, I've heard it preached all of my life, and I've read it numerous times, but this time it spoke to me in a different way.
"But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves." (James 1:22 KJV)
Here is the Amplified version:
"But be doers of the Word [obey the message], and not merely listeners to it, betraying yourselves [into deception by reasoning contrary to the Truth]. (James 1:22 AMP)
This scripture spoke volumes to me. In the last days when many are "being deceived" we must stop and take inventory of our own hearts and make sure we have an "obedient spirit." If we do, and we're walking with the Lord like we should be...if we're praying, being faithful, and obeying the Word that is preached by a "Truth preaching preacher," there is no way for satan to deceive us. He is not powerful enough to walk into the heart of a Holy Ghost filled child of God and destroy them!
The following is a quote from Pastor Mark Foster that struck a chord in my heart...
"It is inconceivable to think the same spirit that raised Jesus from the dead would come into our lives and do nothing."
The power of God is greater than the schemes of satan! Be obedient to God's Word and satan has no power in your life! After all, Jesus used the Word against satan, and satan was DEFEATED!
In all of my simple thinking, I came to this conclusion...Born again, children of God do not need to walk through life being afraid of the "spirit of deception jumping on them." What we should fear is our own carnal mind that wants us to "intentionally reason contrary to the Truth." Those who "reason contrary to the Truth" will go on their way as if they never heard Truth, fulfilling the lusts of the flesh. That person is then set up for deception to invade their heart and mind, and if they do not come to their senses, they'll never know they have been "deceived!" Now that's something to fear.
Stay alert child of God! Be obedient to the Word of God! Save yourself from this world by dying to your flesh! Crave the things of God! Walk in the Spirit! Keep yourself unspotted from the world! Jesus is coming back for His bride, so be ready!
When I go to prayer I want my heart to be open:
"Dear Lord, please look deep into my heart and walk into every corner and cleanse me from anything that is not pleasing to You. Help me to see "me" like YOU see me. I want to be obedient to Your Word, and act upon it...lest I deceive myself into thinking that I'm alright when I'm not, and be lost because of my own negligence and self will. Help me to be a doer of the Word and not just hear it. In Jesus Name!"
The other day I was reading my Bible and I saw something I hadn't "seen" before. The more I think about it, the bigger this subject gets. Here is the scripture that caught my attention. Oh yes, I've heard it preached all of my life, and I've read it numerous times, but this time it spoke to me in a different way.
"But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves." (James 1:22 KJV)
Here is the Amplified version:
"But be doers of the Word [obey the message], and not merely listeners to it, betraying yourselves [into deception by reasoning contrary to the Truth]. (James 1:22 AMP)
This scripture spoke volumes to me. In the last days when many are "being deceived" we must stop and take inventory of our own hearts and make sure we have an "obedient spirit." If we do, and we're walking with the Lord like we should be...if we're praying, being faithful, and obeying the Word that is preached by a "Truth preaching preacher," there is no way for satan to deceive us. He is not powerful enough to walk into the heart of a Holy Ghost filled child of God and destroy them!
The following is a quote from Pastor Mark Foster that struck a chord in my heart...
"It is inconceivable to think the same spirit that raised Jesus from the dead would come into our lives and do nothing."
The power of God is greater than the schemes of satan! Be obedient to God's Word and satan has no power in your life! After all, Jesus used the Word against satan, and satan was DEFEATED!
In all of my simple thinking, I came to this conclusion...Born again, children of God do not need to walk through life being afraid of the "spirit of deception jumping on them." What we should fear is our own carnal mind that wants us to "intentionally reason contrary to the Truth." Those who "reason contrary to the Truth" will go on their way as if they never heard Truth, fulfilling the lusts of the flesh. That person is then set up for deception to invade their heart and mind, and if they do not come to their senses, they'll never know they have been "deceived!" Now that's something to fear.
Stay alert child of God! Be obedient to the Word of God! Save yourself from this world by dying to your flesh! Crave the things of God! Walk in the Spirit! Keep yourself unspotted from the world! Jesus is coming back for His bride, so be ready!
When I go to prayer I want my heart to be open:
"Dear Lord, please look deep into my heart and walk into every corner and cleanse me from anything that is not pleasing to You. Help me to see "me" like YOU see me. I want to be obedient to Your Word, and act upon it...lest I deceive myself into thinking that I'm alright when I'm not, and be lost because of my own negligence and self will. Help me to be a doer of the Word and not just hear it. In Jesus Name!"
Wednesday, January 02, 2013
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.
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.
Tuesday, January 01, 2013
2012 Ended...2013 Was Born
It is 10:51 PM, Dec. 31, 2012
It seems like yesterday was January 1, 2012 and now I'm only 59 minutes from it being January 1, 2013! Let me just say, God has been good to us this year! Of course, that is just another year that He's been good, but I am thankful each day for His goodness.
At the beginning of each new year I find myself wondering what all will take place as the days go by. I'm expecting a good year, and trusting all my friends and family will have one also.
As our family gathered for Christmas I was so thankful we could all be together! We had such a lovely time and had a lot of fun just being together! There's nothing like having our kids home!
Now, we move on into the New Year! I'm really excited to see what God is going to do this year! Could it be He might tell Gabrielle to blow the trumpet so we can all be "HOME" forever?
Many blessings to you and your families! Thank you for being my friend!
It seems like yesterday was January 1, 2012 and now I'm only 59 minutes from it being January 1, 2013! Let me just say, God has been good to us this year! Of course, that is just another year that He's been good, but I am thankful each day for His goodness.
At the beginning of each new year I find myself wondering what all will take place as the days go by. I'm expecting a good year, and trusting all my friends and family will have one also.
As our family gathered for Christmas I was so thankful we could all be together! We had such a lovely time and had a lot of fun just being together! There's nothing like having our kids home!
Many blessings to you and your families! Thank you for being my friend!
Monday, December 17, 2012
Just ONE Little Word
A little observation that happened to me this morning...
It's amazing how just ONE WORD will create a "want" in your mind. This morning I read the word BROWNIE while skimming over some email, now I really want one! :-) What "word" could you use today to create a hunger in someone's heart to know the true Savior of the world...JESUS? You may not even realize the impact you are having on someone today, but your "word" just might be the very one that awakens their spiritual appetite to know Him! God knows the exact timing for that one "word" to be spoken. He see's the heart of the people you are surrounded by, and loves them so much that He reaches to them in some of the simplest of ways. They may not know at that particular moment what is going on, but in the quiet of their evening He will bring to their remembrance that one "word" when something stirred inside their heart. When I let myself think about Jesus and how He came to redeem us, I think of LOVE...just one simple "word," but the most powerful of all!
Have a blessed Monday!
It's amazing how just ONE WORD will create a "want" in your mind. This morning I read the word BROWNIE while skimming over some email, now I really want one! :-) What "word" could you use today to create a hunger in someone's heart to know the true Savior of the world...JESUS? You may not even realize the impact you are having on someone today, but your "word" just might be the very one that awakens their spiritual appetite to know Him! God knows the exact timing for that one "word" to be spoken. He see's the heart of the people you are surrounded by, and loves them so much that He reaches to them in some of the simplest of ways. They may not know at that particular moment what is going on, but in the quiet of their evening He will bring to their remembrance that one "word" when something stirred inside their heart. When I let myself think about Jesus and how He came to redeem us, I think of LOVE...just one simple "word," but the most powerful of all!
Have a blessed Monday!
Thursday, December 13, 2012
A Time Well Spent
As I was getting ready to go to bed tonight, I felt drawn to sit down at my piano. The songs that flooded my mind and got my fingers to "tickling the ivory" were:
Everybody Will Be Happy Over There
Until Then
I Want to Go There
Lord, When Are You Coming?
I Want to Hear Your Welcome
Once I started singing, I didn't want to stop, so I kept playing and singing for awhile. The longer I sang, the more "homesick" I got for Heaven. I want to be ready to meet The Lord when He comes to take us all home.
There's something great about letting your "soul" sing. It lightens your load. It re-focuses your mind. It brings to remembrance the one thing that's most important, and keeps Heaven in view. Oh yes! I had a wonderful time as I sang. My voice isn't as strong as it once was, and at times it struggles to reach a note, but my heart had no problem of reaching into the heavens. Then, I felt Him walk into MY world, and I had the desire to grow closer to Him!
Everybody Will Be Happy Over There
Until Then
I Want to Go There
Lord, When Are You Coming?
I Want to Hear Your Welcome
Once I started singing, I didn't want to stop, so I kept playing and singing for awhile. The longer I sang, the more "homesick" I got for Heaven. I want to be ready to meet The Lord when He comes to take us all home.
There's something great about letting your "soul" sing. It lightens your load. It re-focuses your mind. It brings to remembrance the one thing that's most important, and keeps Heaven in view. Oh yes! I had a wonderful time as I sang. My voice isn't as strong as it once was, and at times it struggles to reach a note, but my heart had no problem of reaching into the heavens. Then, I felt Him walk into MY world, and I had the desire to grow closer to Him!
Christmas Countdown
It's just a few more days till Christmas, and I haven't finished buying gifts, yet! At times I feel that panic mode, then remind myself that 'll get it done! I always have!
We are really looking forward to a few days with our kids and grandkids! Our granddaughters are growing up way too fast, yet I'm enjoying each stage! They range from pre-teen to little toddlers, so I can enjoy great conversation with the older ones, and cuddle with the babies. What a life!
I have my house decorated with all the Christmas decorations, our nativity, and my Santa collection. I love this time of year! All the green and red that fills our home makes it cheerful and fun!
When I think about the "Reason for the Season," I think of the song..."We are the reason that He gave His life..." Calvary wasn't the first or only time He gave His life. When Jesus came to earth as a baby, He gave His life, for He knew He would have to suffer and be ridiculed, mocked, and crucified! He came with a purpose! My heart overflows with thankfulness, and I am humbled to know how much He loves me...and you.
Yes, Christmas Day is almost here, but while I am approaching the day filled with family, fun, food, and presents, I pause to reflect on the REASON for it all!
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
We are really looking forward to a few days with our kids and grandkids! Our granddaughters are growing up way too fast, yet I'm enjoying each stage! They range from pre-teen to little toddlers, so I can enjoy great conversation with the older ones, and cuddle with the babies. What a life!
I have my house decorated with all the Christmas decorations, our nativity, and my Santa collection. I love this time of year! All the green and red that fills our home makes it cheerful and fun!
When I think about the "Reason for the Season," I think of the song..."We are the reason that He gave His life..." Calvary wasn't the first or only time He gave His life. When Jesus came to earth as a baby, He gave His life, for He knew He would have to suffer and be ridiculed, mocked, and crucified! He came with a purpose! My heart overflows with thankfulness, and I am humbled to know how much He loves me...and you.
Yes, Christmas Day is almost here, but while I am approaching the day filled with family, fun, food, and presents, I pause to reflect on the REASON for it all!
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Judge Not
In reading the chapter my friend Gayla Millstid Hardin recommended on her Facebook status update this morning, one scripture really stood out to me. It's one of the most heartwarming scriptures in the Bible, or it can bring a sting of reproach to the person that is pointing their finger at others.
(1 Cor. 6:11) "And such were some of you..."
If it had not been for The Lord we would all still be living a life full of sin. Be careful who you point your finger at...they could be someone God is giving "lessons" to and they are struggling to understand His ways. I love the rest of the scripture:
"...but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you are justified in the name of The Lord Jesus and by the spirit of our God." (NKJV)
I'm thankful for the blood of Jesus that washes away our sin! We are all "sinners saved by grace!" We need His precious blood applied each day.
(1 Cor. 6:11) "And such were some of you..."
If it had not been for The Lord we would all still be living a life full of sin. Be careful who you point your finger at...they could be someone God is giving "lessons" to and they are struggling to understand His ways. I love the rest of the scripture:
"...but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you are justified in the name of The Lord Jesus and by the spirit of our God." (NKJV)
I'm thankful for the blood of Jesus that washes away our sin! We are all "sinners saved by grace!" We need His precious blood applied each day.
Could It Be?
Seeing all the planning of parties, shopping for gifts, and the busyness of life, I have a quiet nagging inside that's saying..."All of the above is well and good, but REALLY...the MOST important happening in my life is the 'twinkling of an eye' trip I'm planning, and Who I'm going to see when I get there!" Friends, don't get too distracted in this world! We have a hope and a promise! My heart is singing..."
I want to go there; I want to go there.
Christ said I could go; His Word tells me so, the beauties of Heaven to share.
I want to go there. I mean to go there!
My mansion awaits, just inside those gates, and I want to go there!"
Do you think we just might be spending this Christmas where roses never fade, and the light we see shining is coming from the throne because JESUS, the light of the world is there?
Lift up your eyes and look to the sky...HE'S COMING!
I want to go there; I want to go there.
Christ said I could go; His Word tells me so, the beauties of Heaven to share.
I want to go there. I mean to go there!
My mansion awaits, just inside those gates, and I want to go there!"
Do you think we just might be spending this Christmas where roses never fade, and the light we see shining is coming from the throne because JESUS, the light of the world is there?
Lift up your eyes and look to the sky...HE'S COMING!
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
A weekend With Andrew and Family
This past weekend we got to spend a few days with our kids. It was wonderful! The girls are growing up too fast, and they are all sweethearts! :-)
On Sunday morning we went to church with them, and my husband preached a soul-stirring message. He preached with passion about being "shut in with God" and "receiving the blessing." I left with a deeper desire to know God more intimately, to have His approval and blessing more than ever!
The church in Balch Springs is growing numerically. Souls are being brought into the Kingdom, and that brings excitement to the church family! There is joy in giving to those new babies in Christ! The service Sunday morning was filled with the glory of God! Our souls were fed by the richness of His everlasting love!
I took a few pictures with my phone, which aren't as sharp as my good camera, but at least I have pictures! :-)
On Sunday morning we went to church with them, and my husband preached a soul-stirring message. He preached with passion about being "shut in with God" and "receiving the blessing." I left with a deeper desire to know God more intimately, to have His approval and blessing more than ever!
The church in Balch Springs is growing numerically. Souls are being brought into the Kingdom, and that brings excitement to the church family! There is joy in giving to those new babies in Christ! The service Sunday morning was filled with the glory of God! Our souls were fed by the richness of His everlasting love!
I took a few pictures with my phone, which aren't as sharp as my good camera, but at least I have pictures! :-)
Rethinking My Blog
After feeling guilty for not writing on my blog faithfully, and a friend from home mentioning to me that the "last time I had written a post to Echoes from the Elms was in October, and that she isn't on Facebook where she can keep up with us," I am rethinking my blog. I don't know how it will be, but I'm am going to try and share on my blog short thoughts I have, and what's happening in our life in a shorter post...more like what I post on Facebook. I may add a little more of my "thought" here since I can write more, but will work to keep it shorter. That is hard for me! So...please bear with me, and if you have a suggestion, please share with me. Also, if you have a comment, I would love to hear from you. The interaction is what I love about Facebook, so I am pulled toward the connection with friends and family in that forum. As you know, "relationship with God, family and friends is MOST important in my life!" May you have a blessed day and experience the presence of Almighty God as you go through this day!
Friday, October 12, 2012
Pure Worship
I will be right up front and tell you that I'm fired up! When I walked in my house tonight I was very tired and really thought I would be going to bed after washing my hair, but my mind decided to review some things I had read this week.
1. I received an article in my email about "male-friendly churches". Here is what I said about it on Facebook:
2. On a FB page I'm part of, someone had come to a music director and asked if he could find "manly songs" to sing in church. This was my reply to that request:
OK...I've read a lot of the posts, but I want to say that I am tired of the "world's thinking" and "church world's thinking" infiltrating OUR thinking. The Apostolic Church should never be drawn into the "carnal thinking of the church world". (I'm pretty sure most of us are Apostolic.) As Apostolic worship leader's we should raise our thoughts and hearts higher than the thinking of those who do not possess the precious gift of the Holy Ghost and know God in all Truth! Relationship with Jesus is not "sensual, sexual, and intimate in the way the world thinks". It is pure and holy! Sing songs that lift Jesus up and speak of relationship with Him! When a person has been rejuvenated from the power of Almighty God and their mind has been changed from the "old man", their thinking changes and they want to be drawn into His presence. Just a final thought...If there's a song that feels a little "strange" when we sing it, or something in our spirit doesn't feel right, maybe we shouldn't be singing it. If we're living close to God like we should be the Holy Ghost will lead us in what we should and shouldn't sing.
Let me quote again what I said at the end of one of my Facebook posts: "If there's a song that feels a little "strange" when we sing it, or something in our spirit doesn't feel right, maybe we shouldn't be singing it. If we're living close to God like we should be the Holy Ghost will lead us in what we should and shouldn't sing." We definitely need to be led by the Holy Ghost!
1. I received an article in my email about "male-friendly churches". Here is what I said about it on Facebook:
Reading
an email from the Leadership Journal my mind became a little
frustrated! What caught my attention was the Subject line in the email.
You might have received the same one. "Make Your Church
Male-Friendly". :-/ Evidently, this problem exists in churches that
are not Apostolic. Didn't Jesus have 12 disciples that were MEN? They
definitely were not "pansies"! Since our churches follow the Apostolic
doctrine and separation from the world and it's thinking, I don't think
REAL MEN have a problem of needing our churches to be more
MALE-FRIENDLY. From what I've observed, it takes a REAL MAN to follow
Jesus and His teachings! If the church world isn't careful they will be
making church another gender debate! In my opinion we do not need to
stoop to the leadership level of the "church world" and try to fashion
our churches after their thinking. Yes, we need Men's Ministry, and we
have it. REAL MEN that want to have a MAN-FRIENDLY church can find it
when they seek TRUTH in Apostolic Churches! This is just a little
that's been going on in my mind this evening. :-)
2. On a FB page I'm part of, someone had come to a music director and asked if he could find "manly songs" to sing in church. This was my reply to that request:
OK...I've read a lot of the posts, but I want to say that I am tired of the "world's thinking" and "church world's thinking" infiltrating OUR thinking. The Apostolic Church should never be drawn into the "carnal thinking of the church world". (I'm pretty sure most of us are Apostolic.) As Apostolic worship leader's we should raise our thoughts and hearts higher than the thinking of those who do not possess the precious gift of the Holy Ghost and know God in all Truth! Relationship with Jesus is not "sensual, sexual, and intimate in the way the world thinks". It is pure and holy! Sing songs that lift Jesus up and speak of relationship with Him! When a person has been rejuvenated from the power of Almighty God and their mind has been changed from the "old man", their thinking changes and they want to be drawn into His presence. Just a final thought...If there's a song that feels a little "strange" when we sing it, or something in our spirit doesn't feel right, maybe we shouldn't be singing it. If we're living close to God like we should be the Holy Ghost will lead us in what we should and shouldn't sing.
I do not feel like I have the answer to all of this, but since I wrote on Facebook, I remembered a statement my husband said to me a few weeks ago. I can hear his voice very clearly as he said, "Honey, I'm afraid that what's happening is that the devil is trying to destroy our praise and worship through some of our music and songs we (our churches) are singing." That hit me like a brick! My husband is a man of few words, but when he speaks I sit up and take notice. And, when he speaks about the things of God my ears, heart and mind listen very intently.
Let me quote again what I said at the end of one of my Facebook posts: "If there's a song that feels a little "strange" when we sing it, or something in our spirit doesn't feel right, maybe we shouldn't be singing it. If we're living close to God like we should be the Holy Ghost will lead us in what we should and shouldn't sing." We definitely need to be led by the Holy Ghost!
If you know me at all, you know that I love music and that I do my best to flow with the times. This is not what I'm talking about right now. What I want to say is this: One of the things our Apostolic churches have been known for is our music, and the power that falls when we are singing and worshiping the Lord. I could talk a long time about the the powerful services we have had when a group or a choir began singing and the glory of God filled the sanctuary. My mind goes to many services where I saw men and women with their hands raised, tears streaming down their faces as they worshiped God through song. One of the most powerful times I remember is when our choir was singing "At Your Feet". The song brought men and ladies to the altar, some came out of the choir and they fell to their knees in worship to Almighty God! There are many songs that are about relationship to Jesus, such as "Jesus, I love You because you care. I couldn't imagine if you weren't there." Our congregation (men and women) was once again moved into the spirit of worship. Who cannot worship when you're singing about the One who gave His life so we could be free from sin?
Hence my concern...satan would love to destroy the "pure worship" we have in our churches by attacking the meaning of the songs we sing! The world is full of sin and those who have forgotten WHO they were when they were born. I can't help that some have decided to have a demented relationship with someone of the same sex, and that some of them think about a relationship with Jesus as being a "lover relationship". I can't help that they choose to live like they do, but I can stop the onslaught of satan that is doing his best to destroy our PURE WORSHIP to Jesus Christ! Let's not forget who Jesus IS! He is God manifested in the flesh that came to earth to redeem us from our sin! We must be careful that our mind is not contaminated by the carnal thinking of the world that causes us to think in the same sick way that the world does. Let the Church be the Church! Let us stand up and stand against the trick of the enemy, and sing songs of worship to our King and Savior, Jesus Christ! I will not let the very one that was cast out of heaven because of his pride, stop me from singing about my love to the One that gave His ALL for me.
I challenge every music director to pray against the sensual spirits that are trying to destroy our pure worship! I challenge you to stand up and sing with more conviction, and power than ever before. I challenge you to pull out some songs about "power in the blood", "the old rugged cross", and sing about "when He was on the cross...I was on His mind." Soften the music, soften the drums, let the guitars and bass be silent for a few lines while you sing, and sing about the Name of Jesus! See what will happen in your churches when you sing "Oh, love of God...how rich and pure!" Watch people sing with tears flowing down their face as they remember where He brought them from.
Monday, July 23, 2012
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Dear Preacher and Preacher's Wife
I don't know why my mind has wandered off to far away places today, but for some reason I found myself in my Grandpa and Grandma Layne's living room. In the middle of the room was Daddy and Grandpa Layne. At times, they would get into a "wrestling match" just for fun, and Grandpa always "won"! This time was no different, but what WAS different is that in the car I overheard Daddy telling Mother..."You know Lila, I could have wrestled Pop to the floor, but I just won't do that to the old man." He said "old man" very respectfully! He went on to say, "I didn't want him to "feel bad" because he just didn't have the strength he use to have."
WHY did my mind wander down that "memory lane" today? I was really kind of shocked! Almost as soon as that memory invaded my thoughts, I had another thought that formed, and as I realized what was taking place, I knew God was speaking to my heart.
A "spiritual wrestling match" has been going on for sometime now between the "deceiver" and those who have been taught Biblical holiness and separation. The message the "deceiver" brings is from the pits of hell. He will say things like, "Surely you don't believe those old-fashioned things anymore! Don't you think you could do away with them? Really...do you think those things are still necessary?" A saint who has loved their separated life is suddenly under attack! They now find themselves in a "wrestling match" that they really don't understand, because the "deceiver" has already been working on them through anger, a critical spirit, and a tiny seed of bitterness. After the onslaught of "sweet smiles, and silvery words from the deceiver" they have become weaker, until they can no longer tell right from wrong. They find themselves questioning the very truth they once loved! The things of God seem so...far...away. Then, without notice...they feel their legs give way. They cannot withstand the "deceiver" any longer. Now, they reason..."I love my church...but I just can't believe "that" anymore. I don't want to leave my friends and family here, and I wish they would go with me, but they're still holding onto what we've always been taught. I just can't understand how they can go along with that kind of preaching anymore! Oh, I know they've stood beside me through many trials, and they said they loved me, but they're "love" was so shallow. They really didn't mean it." And the "deceiver" keeps weaving his web! Everyday that goes by the "deceivers" words play over and over in their mind, and they feel a confusion like never before as they reason of how it wouldn't be right to leave all those they love. Their thoughts become more muddy, and their head feels like it is literally spinning. One minute they want to leave, the next..."I think I'll just stay here. I'm sure it'll all be okay! People will understand that I've made a few changes, but they'll see I'm really happier than I was when I was doing what the Pastor preached. They'll eventually see that the REAL me really hasn't changed at all. I'm still the same person I was years ago." As they continue to reason, never making a fresh dedication, or a new commitment, they find themselves lulled to sleep from the ever so soothing music of the "deceivers voice", and what they once knew was truth is no longer part of their life.
On the sidelines, sits the Old Prophet of God that has led his people to righteous, holy living and he watches as those he has given his life for buckles to their knees. He weeps as he remembers the countless times he has led his congregation to the throne room of God, and their lives were changed after he preached, "Thus sayeth the Word of the Lord!" As he sits there, it's as if he feels a sword rip through his chest and it goes directly to his heart! He has preached about the spirit of compromise, and warned his people about the last days, but he never dreamed he would ever SEE that day happen! His very being is torn into, and his heart cries for those he loves...but it seems there is nothing he can do. Under the load of discouragement that has broken his heart he closes his eyes...
Just as the Old Prophet is about to take his last breath, someone steps into the room. Who is it? A young man? As he tries to focus his eyes on the young man, he thinks of when HE was young and strong. As he watches the young man stroll towards him, he notices his vision has been restored. He feels his strength return as he "remembers". The young man is now standing in front of him, so the Old Prophet raises his head and asks..."Young man, who are you? Where do you come from? What are you doing here? What is your name?" As the young man begins to speak, the Old Prophet realizes that he has been sent by God to help fight the battle that has been raging. And FIGHT he does! With an anointing that only comes from the Holy One, the young man reaches out and grabs that long, ugly sword of discouragement that has pierced the Old Prophet's heart. With his strong hands he carefully removes it. With a power like the Old Prophet has not seen for awhile he watches as the young man throws "discouragement" aside. Then...Encouragement speaks, "Oh man of God! What the "deceiver" has tried to do to those you have given your life for, will no longer prevail! God has sent me to tell you that all you have done...is not in vain! You have preached, you have given, you have prayed and fasted, you have loved unconditionally. The "deceiver" may have destroyed a few, but he hasn't destroyed the CHURCH! Stand up now! Look around you and look at the CHURCH! It is ALIVE and WELL!"
A "spiritual wrestling match" has been going on for sometime now between the "deceiver" and those who have been taught Biblical holiness and separation. The message the "deceiver" brings is from the pits of hell. He will say things like, "Surely you don't believe those old-fashioned things anymore! Don't you think you could do away with them? Really...do you think those things are still necessary?" A saint who has loved their separated life is suddenly under attack! They now find themselves in a "wrestling match" that they really don't understand, because the "deceiver" has already been working on them through anger, a critical spirit, and a tiny seed of bitterness. After the onslaught of "sweet smiles, and silvery words from the deceiver" they have become weaker, until they can no longer tell right from wrong. They find themselves questioning the very truth they once loved! The things of God seem so...far...away. Then, without notice...they feel their legs give way. They cannot withstand the "deceiver" any longer. Now, they reason..."I love my church...but I just can't believe "that" anymore. I don't want to leave my friends and family here, and I wish they would go with me, but they're still holding onto what we've always been taught. I just can't understand how they can go along with that kind of preaching anymore! Oh, I know they've stood beside me through many trials, and they said they loved me, but they're "love" was so shallow. They really didn't mean it." And the "deceiver" keeps weaving his web! Everyday that goes by the "deceivers" words play over and over in their mind, and they feel a confusion like never before as they reason of how it wouldn't be right to leave all those they love. Their thoughts become more muddy, and their head feels like it is literally spinning. One minute they want to leave, the next..."I think I'll just stay here. I'm sure it'll all be okay! People will understand that I've made a few changes, but they'll see I'm really happier than I was when I was doing what the Pastor preached. They'll eventually see that the REAL me really hasn't changed at all. I'm still the same person I was years ago." As they continue to reason, never making a fresh dedication, or a new commitment, they find themselves lulled to sleep from the ever so soothing music of the "deceivers voice", and what they once knew was truth is no longer part of their life.
On the sidelines, sits the Old Prophet of God that has led his people to righteous, holy living and he watches as those he has given his life for buckles to their knees. He weeps as he remembers the countless times he has led his congregation to the throne room of God, and their lives were changed after he preached, "Thus sayeth the Word of the Lord!" As he sits there, it's as if he feels a sword rip through his chest and it goes directly to his heart! He has preached about the spirit of compromise, and warned his people about the last days, but he never dreamed he would ever SEE that day happen! His very being is torn into, and his heart cries for those he loves...but it seems there is nothing he can do. Under the load of discouragement that has broken his heart he closes his eyes...
Just as the Old Prophet is about to take his last breath, someone steps into the room. Who is it? A young man? As he tries to focus his eyes on the young man, he thinks of when HE was young and strong. As he watches the young man stroll towards him, he notices his vision has been restored. He feels his strength return as he "remembers". The young man is now standing in front of him, so the Old Prophet raises his head and asks..."Young man, who are you? Where do you come from? What are you doing here? What is your name?" As the young man begins to speak, the Old Prophet realizes that he has been sent by God to help fight the battle that has been raging. And FIGHT he does! With an anointing that only comes from the Holy One, the young man reaches out and grabs that long, ugly sword of discouragement that has pierced the Old Prophet's heart. With his strong hands he carefully removes it. With a power like the Old Prophet has not seen for awhile he watches as the young man throws "discouragement" aside. Then...Encouragement speaks, "Oh man of God! What the "deceiver" has tried to do to those you have given your life for, will no longer prevail! God has sent me to tell you that all you have done...is not in vain! You have preached, you have given, you have prayed and fasted, you have loved unconditionally. The "deceiver" may have destroyed a few, but he hasn't destroyed the CHURCH! Stand up now! Look around you and look at the CHURCH! It is ALIVE and WELL!"
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Loyalty
LOYAL - faithful to - steady in allegiance...Those who gripe, complain, and criticize America needs to ADJUST THEIR ATTITUDE or LEAVE IT! It's easy for some people to forget where they would be if it hadn't been for those who fought for their freedom. I remember a speaker on the radio that use to say when he had made a point, "Are you listening?" :-) Friends...ARE WE LISTENING? Sometimes I like to do an "attitude checkup" on myself. What is my attitude about my church, my church family, my Pastor, my organization? Am I thankful for what they have done for me? Do I still LOVE them enough to DEFEND them, or am I going to sit around and "gripe, complain, and criticize" that which brought me FREEDOM, and those who have fought to KEEP ME FREE? I don't have a choice to LEAVE IT...that's not in my vocabulary, SOOOO what does one do when they find themselves "griping, complaining, and criticizing"? It's easy! Pray until your spirit gets right, your attitude adjusted, and..."If I don't have anything good to say, then don't say anything at all." Ok...I'm done! It's just a little thought I had...
Friday, May 18, 2012
Another Lesson In Life
I love the following scripture.
A few months ago I had an experience that I want to share with you. One night while reading my “Family Page” on Facebook I saw a status update from my sister, Karla.
“HELP FOR A FUNERAL!!! Please! Does anyone know this song?" (she quoted the words). Then said: "I need to HEAR it and need to know how to play it. Any help will be greatly appreciated!!!!!!”
Being the "sweet older sister" that I am... :-)...I immediately went into action. I knew part of the song. It was way back in my memory someplace! I picked up the phone and called Karla. When she answered, I started singing what I could remember. She wasn’t where she could write it down, so she called me back within a few minutes. While sitting at the piano, finding the chords, and singing it very slowly to her (no telling what it sounded like). Then, my PHONE rang! It was11:27 PM! Who would be calling so late? This concerned me a little. When I answered, my friend Donna said, "Linda…have you found that song yet?" I laughed, then answered, "No…I’ve got part of it, but I can’t remember it all." Then she said, "It goes like this..."
Donna sang it and told me the chords all at the same time! Donna was calling from her hotel room in a totally different state than Texas, where she was getting ready to speak at a conference! I couldn't believe she was taking the time to call about a song! Now, that is a true friend! I called Karla immediately. We changed the key to the one Donna was singing in and Karla was satisfied “enough” to be able to “figure it out from there”.
I went back to Facebook and realized our friends were trying to find it! Here is the comments/conversation that was happening:
"I think I can get this to you tomorrow. Give me your email address and I will email you a recording (at least as well as I remember it), maybe it will help. J"
Karla: "That would be awesome!!! Thank you! If anyone has a chord chart or something – please…" I could hear the desperation in her "tone of voice". I figured with her "desperation" SOMEONE would come up with the chord chart, so I asked her to share the chord chart when she got it.
Karla: "I will definitely share! With all the collaboration we should get it figured out real good. Appreciate the help!"
Another friend wrote: "Wow…have not heard that song in a long time." I starting thinking, "Well, if they haven't heard it in a long time, at least they might be able to wrack their brain to pull some chords together. But, nothing came after that!
Then, Gayla came on and said, “I want it too please.” It was her brother that had passed away and had sung this song, and Karla was needing to play it for his service.
But, God, who is rich in mercy,
for his great love wherewith he loved us,
even when we were dead in sins,
hath quickened us together with Christ,
And hath raised us up together,
and
made us sit together
in heavenly places in Christ Jesus…
(Ephesians 2:4-6)
A few months ago I had an experience that I want to share with you. One night while reading my “Family Page” on Facebook I saw a status update from my sister, Karla.
“HELP FOR A FUNERAL!!! Please! Does anyone know this song?" (she quoted the words). Then said: "I need to HEAR it and need to know how to play it. Any help will be greatly appreciated!!!!!!”
Being the "sweet older sister" that I am... :-)...I immediately went into action. I knew part of the song. It was way back in my memory someplace! I picked up the phone and called Karla. When she answered, I started singing what I could remember. She wasn’t where she could write it down, so she called me back within a few minutes. While sitting at the piano, finding the chords, and singing it very slowly to her (no telling what it sounded like). Then, my PHONE rang! It was11:27 PM! Who would be calling so late? This concerned me a little. When I answered, my friend Donna said, "Linda…have you found that song yet?" I laughed, then answered, "No…I’ve got part of it, but I can’t remember it all." Then she said, "It goes like this..."
Donna sang it and told me the chords all at the same time! Donna was calling from her hotel room in a totally different state than Texas, where she was getting ready to speak at a conference! I couldn't believe she was taking the time to call about a song! Now, that is a true friend! I called Karla immediately. We changed the key to the one Donna was singing in and Karla was satisfied “enough” to be able to “figure it out from there”.
Here are some other facts to this
story:
Gene,
Karla's husband searched the internet (found
some words), but no music. If Gene couldn't find it, I was pretty sure
nobody would. But, I went to the internet anyway. I was thinking,
"Maybe, just maybe I would run across something. After all, at least I
KNEW the song." So, my search began. I searched: Youtube, iTunes, the
Imperials, Murrell Ewing, Joan Ewing. Nothing! I know there's probably
someone out there right now that will go to the internet and find the
song, or at least "try" to find it. If you do, please let us know where
it was. :-)
I went back to Facebook and realized our friends were trying to find it! Here is the comments/conversation that was happening:
"I think I can get this to you tomorrow. Give me your email address and I will email you a recording (at least as well as I remember it), maybe it will help. J"
Karla: "That would be awesome!!! Thank you! If anyone has a chord chart or something – please…" I could hear the desperation in her "tone of voice". I figured with her "desperation" SOMEONE would come up with the chord chart, so I asked her to share the chord chart when she got it.
Karla: "I will definitely share! With all the collaboration we should get it figured out real good. Appreciate the help!"
Another friend wrote: "Wow…have not heard that song in a long time." I starting thinking, "Well, if they haven't heard it in a long time, at least they might be able to wrack their brain to pull some chords together. But, nothing came after that!
Then, Gayla came on and said, “I want it too please.” It was her brother that had passed away and had sung this song, and Karla was needing to play it for his service.
A minister of music and a lady that knows a lot of older songs asked: "Who sang this?"
Me:
"I heard Bro. Murrell Ewing did. I thought I had heard the Imperials
sing it. I don’t know. I’ve searched and can’t find it."
Help kept coming in:
"I will have to ask my mom. I remember her singing it at revivals. Many years ago." I thought, Yay! Maybe we're getting somewhere! I was starting to get excited!
"Here is a site with all the Imperials records." WOW! Maybe it's there...so I went and listened to a lot of old songs, on old albums. Nothing...
"I will have to ask my mom. I remember her singing it at revivals. Many years ago." I thought, Yay! Maybe we're getting somewhere! I was starting to get excited!
"Here is a site with all the Imperials records." WOW! Maybe it's there...so I went and listened to a lot of old songs, on old albums. Nothing...
"I’ve sung this for years and believe
Sis. Joan Ewing wrote the song.
The rest of it is…" We got some more words. Closer...closer...closer.
"I would like a copy of the chord chart, too. I have it written out but I’m not positive it’s correct since I’m going from “old memories".
I think my heart skipped a beat! Someone finally has something written out! I had to help my sister! I could hardly wait to get her the words and chords. I know, I could have dropped it, but she was needing the words and music NOW! The service was coming up and she couldn't let her friend down. I understood her feeling.
Then, my friend, Kay came to the rescue. "It’s written by Joan Ewing and sung by Bro. Ewing." At least now we knew who wrote it, and who sang it! Surely, we will be able to find it. We could call Sis. Joan Ewing if we had to!
Here’s the CLINCHER!
Pam, a music minister wrote, "Would you believe this is on page 329 in the "Sing Unto the Lord" songbook?" Her words were music to our ears!
"I would like a copy of the chord chart, too. I have it written out but I’m not positive it’s correct since I’m going from “old memories".
I think my heart skipped a beat! Someone finally has something written out! I had to help my sister! I could hardly wait to get her the words and chords. I know, I could have dropped it, but she was needing the words and music NOW! The service was coming up and she couldn't let her friend down. I understood her feeling.
Then, my friend, Kay came to the rescue. "It’s written by Joan Ewing and sung by Bro. Ewing." At least now we knew who wrote it, and who sang it! Surely, we will be able to find it. We could call Sis. Joan Ewing if we had to!
Here’s the CLINCHER!
Pam, a music minister wrote, "Would you believe this is on page 329 in the "Sing Unto the Lord" songbook?" Her words were music to our ears!
My response was, "YOU’RE RIGHT! I had forgotten that it was there!"
I knew I had that wonderful songbook sitting in my home someplace, so I
went on a search. When I found it I went straight to page 329! Right
there in front of me were the words AND the music!
I know...you're shouting at me, "WHAT DOES THAT HAVE TO DO WITH "SITTING IN HEAVENLY PLACES?”Since we are all human, we sometimes tend to forget how wonderful it is to be part of a glorious church! Every Sunday, every mid-week service, every rally, camp meeting, or conference we go to, we are privileged to "sit in Heavenly places", because we feel the presence of Almighty God! Then, something happens! Life crashes in on us and we get side-tracked. Not realizing what is happening, we don't spend time with the Lord in our home. As life would have it, and satan, we start missing church. Oh, we have our "reasons" we've concocted, but during this process, the "heavenly place" grows dim. It doesn't take long for us to forget what the Lord has done for us. It takes just a few times not going to church, or a few times listening to that disgruntled friend, and we forget. It only takes letting the cares of life overtake us, and those times spent in the presence of God are forgotten. Then, satan starts talking and telling you that “The grass is greener on the other side of the fence" and you feel the pull of the flesh to go enjoy the things of the world. You better be careful! As my husband says, "The grass you're seeing may be greener, but there might be a septic tank on the other side of the fence!" When we get into a carnal mind it's easy for us to be blinded from the bright lights of this world! "Greener grass" will lure you into a cesspool of sin, and you'll be drawn into the bright lights that your carnal nature tends to love. Once you have gone that far, it's easy to forget the "heavenly place" you had RIGHT UNDER YOUR NOSE!
I love being in the presence of the Lord! I love hearing songs that lift my spirit to His. I love hearing words of encouragement from the family of God, and hearing anointed preaching that gets into the inner most parts of my heart! I love it when I sense God is in the sanctuary, because I know I'm safe from the enemy of my soul! I LOVE being with the saints of God! Each time we're together and we worship in spirit and truth we "sit in a heavenly place”.
I'm really glad Karla needed that beautiful song a few months ago. And, I'm glad we found the song. But, more than her being able to play and sing this song for her friend I'm glad I had a spiritual realization come to me, once again, that those things I treasure the most are right here "under my nose". I don't have to search the world over to find the contentment that I have found my whole life by "sitting in heavenly places".
Whatever I think Christ to be.
That's just what He'll be to me;
If I know Him as a Friend above others,
then in my Lord I've found a brother...
I was so happy, yet totally floored at what all we had gone through to find this song when all I needed to do was search in my own house. I had played out of that songbook thousands of times! Why didn't I remember?I know...you're shouting at me, "WHAT DOES THAT HAVE TO DO WITH "SITTING IN HEAVENLY PLACES?”Since we are all human, we sometimes tend to forget how wonderful it is to be part of a glorious church! Every Sunday, every mid-week service, every rally, camp meeting, or conference we go to, we are privileged to "sit in Heavenly places", because we feel the presence of Almighty God! Then, something happens! Life crashes in on us and we get side-tracked. Not realizing what is happening, we don't spend time with the Lord in our home. As life would have it, and satan, we start missing church. Oh, we have our "reasons" we've concocted, but during this process, the "heavenly place" grows dim. It doesn't take long for us to forget what the Lord has done for us. It takes just a few times not going to church, or a few times listening to that disgruntled friend, and we forget. It only takes letting the cares of life overtake us, and those times spent in the presence of God are forgotten. Then, satan starts talking and telling you that “The grass is greener on the other side of the fence" and you feel the pull of the flesh to go enjoy the things of the world. You better be careful! As my husband says, "The grass you're seeing may be greener, but there might be a septic tank on the other side of the fence!" When we get into a carnal mind it's easy for us to be blinded from the bright lights of this world! "Greener grass" will lure you into a cesspool of sin, and you'll be drawn into the bright lights that your carnal nature tends to love. Once you have gone that far, it's easy to forget the "heavenly place" you had RIGHT UNDER YOUR NOSE!
I love being in the presence of the Lord! I love hearing songs that lift my spirit to His. I love hearing words of encouragement from the family of God, and hearing anointed preaching that gets into the inner most parts of my heart! I love it when I sense God is in the sanctuary, because I know I'm safe from the enemy of my soul! I LOVE being with the saints of God! Each time we're together and we worship in spirit and truth we "sit in a heavenly place”.
I'm really glad Karla needed that beautiful song a few months ago. And, I'm glad we found the song. But, more than her being able to play and sing this song for her friend I'm glad I had a spiritual realization come to me, once again, that those things I treasure the most are right here "under my nose". I don't have to search the world over to find the contentment that I have found my whole life by "sitting in heavenly places".
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Music Reflections
While getting ready to retire for the evening my mind started working. It seems that is when I get a "thought" to write about and I know I will not rest until it has been "written on paper" or at least typed someplace. Tonight, I chose my blog.
I have written many times about music and songs that have been a part of my life, but tonight this thought came rushing in. "I have been "expected" to learn all different styles of music through my life. Why not "expect" those who are learning to play to do the same? Why, should they get off the hook by saying, "I don't know how to play that style."?
I'm going to rewind life a few years and let you see a little bit into how I was taught to play. Are you ready?
1. I was taught that music was important. That's not necessarily how it was said, but the actions of my parents and family were such. As a young child I was "expected" to sing the songs when the adults were singing. I didn't have a choice of whether I liked it or not. When it was time to sing EVERYONE sang, and if you knew how to play an instrument, you played.
2. When I was old enough to take piano lessons, Mother decided I was going to take them. I don't remember there ever being an option. She found a piano teacher who taught classical music, and I went to piano lessons weekly. Mother could have taught me to play at home, but wanted me to learn the "basics". I took piano lessons for several years, and I was "expected" to practice piano thirty minutes a day. That's a long time for a 4th grader! I couldn't go play outside until my homework and piano lessons were finished.
3. When I was about 12-13 years old (I think) Mother decided I needed to take accordion lessons!
After learning the basics, I was told I needed to start playing the accordion IN CHURCH! No one would hear me and it was good training. After all, if you're not going to play an instrument in church, why even learn to play? That was the thinking I was brought up with.
4. At the age of 15-16, my brother started a youth choir. He asked me to play the piano. I nearly died! I told him I wasn't going to do it, so he appealed to a higher authority which happened to be our Dad, who was the Pastor. Needless to say, I played for the youth choir! I can still hear Keith's words..."If you think you're going to marry a preacher, then you better be learning to play the piano in church!" Well, Keith, as you know, "I married a preacher and the rest is history." I love you for pushing me to do what I thought I couldn't do, and thank you for believing in me.
5. During these years I was told I was going to play the piano for song service. I was scared out of my mind! I just knew everyone would hear all the mistakes I'd make and besides that there were very good musicians that would be sitting in the congregation and they should be the ones playing. What I didn't realize at that time was I was being trained to pick up the mantle of music so I could be a blessing to my future husband, and the churches we would be in as evangelists. Then, when we became the pastor of a church I could help out in the music department. One thing that helped me during this time was Mother told me to practice "church songs out of the songbook" at home. I didn't know how she "walked the bass with her left hand" and at the same time kept her right hand going with the melody. I thought I would never get the hang of it! Many times she stopped what she was doing to show me how she played the song. It looked so easy when she was playing, but when I sat back down and played, it just didn't flow. I finally decided through many tears that I would sing the song and play the bass with my left hand. Then, I would play the melody with chords on my right hand. I practiced that over and over, then I tried putting left hand and right hand together! It's a wonder I didn't kick the piano over a few times out of frustration! I did end up in tears many times! Do you think Mother was sympathetic? No way! She would just say, "Just keep working at it. You'll get it someday!" When I "HAD TO" play in church, it made me feel better to know that Mother or Bro. Lindley would play the organ. That way no one could hear all the mistakes I'd make!
6. After Wendell and I got engaged he shocked me one day by saying, "Let's go over to the church and practice some songs so we can sing together on the evangelistic field." Once again, I nearly died! I told him I couldn't play and sing at the same time. Besides, he wanted me to play the accordion and him to play the bass and I just KNEW I couldn't do it. Finally, after many mistakes, a few disagreements, some laughter and tears, we got it together!
Oh, I could go on and on! I have so many memories of being MADE to play in front of people! I'm SO GLAD Mother never gave up on me! I have played many hours in church services, and have a very thankful heart for a Mother that saw a plan for my life, and charted my course so I would be able to fulfill my place as a minister's wife.
Many years later my sister, Karla stretched my abilities again. She "expected" me to learn new choir songs that was a different style of music, harder keys, and different beats. Some I never really "got", so I was really thankful for a great bass player and drummer that "knew the beats". Then newer praise and worship choruses were introduced, and for me, they were not "easy" to play. Did I get off the hook just because I didn't know how to play that style? No! I was pushed to learn a different style! Was it my favorite style to play? No! I still liked the "traditional-Pentecostal-out of the songbook-southern gospel style of music." After all, I had worked HOURS to learn to play it so that's what I was comfortable with. I am still not comfortable playing some styles, and honestly do not feel I do a good job at it, but I refuse to give up. Why? I am a musician! I have a talent to give to the Lord, and a desire to be a blessing in His Kingdom. Besides, I was trained and taught that playing in church was the greatest place to use my talents and abilities. Are there musicians that are a whole lot better than me? YES! But, I also know there are some that are awesome in some styles, but really do not know how to play "my style". Am I bragging? No. I have nothing to brag about, but I do have a lot of years of being in the work of God and I'm wanting to stand up and say...
WE NEED MORE MUSICIANS who are COMMITTED to the work of God so much that they'll do WHATEVER IT TAKES to learn what needs to be learned, so they can be a blessing in whatever field they are placed! Don't be so easy on yourself! Musician, APPLY yourself to be more than you are now. You're going to have frustrations and tears, but there is so much JOY when you do the thing you thought you couldn't do! So what if you you don't know how to play "that style". LEARN IT! Find someone one that knows how to play it, and let them teach you. They may feel a little intimidated or even a little old-fashioned, but they have something to teach you. It would do them good to feel they are investing in the future. I know it's not always EASY to play something different, and it seems you'll never "get it", but STRETCH yourself anyway, so that you're able to fulfill the needs of a congregation when called upon.
I really need to go to bed, but feel the urgency to go to the piano to PRACTICE! Unfortunately, that's not possible at this time of night, but as soon as I get a chance I'm heading to the piano and probably to the prayer closet so I won't be too frustrated when I'm learning those new songs. But, one thing for sure, before I get up from the piano I will go back in memory and pull out a "golden-oldie" and sing and play "to my heart's content".
I'm going to rewind life a few years and let you see a little bit into how I was taught to play. Are you ready?
1. I was taught that music was important. That's not necessarily how it was said, but the actions of my parents and family were such. As a young child I was "expected" to sing the songs when the adults were singing. I didn't have a choice of whether I liked it or not. When it was time to sing EVERYONE sang, and if you knew how to play an instrument, you played.
2. When I was old enough to take piano lessons, Mother decided I was going to take them. I don't remember there ever being an option. She found a piano teacher who taught classical music, and I went to piano lessons weekly. Mother could have taught me to play at home, but wanted me to learn the "basics". I took piano lessons for several years, and I was "expected" to practice piano thirty minutes a day. That's a long time for a 4th grader! I couldn't go play outside until my homework and piano lessons were finished.
3. When I was about 12-13 years old (I think) Mother decided I needed to take accordion lessons!
4. At the age of 15-16, my brother started a youth choir. He asked me to play the piano. I nearly died! I told him I wasn't going to do it, so he appealed to a higher authority which happened to be our Dad, who was the Pastor. Needless to say, I played for the youth choir! I can still hear Keith's words..."If you think you're going to marry a preacher, then you better be learning to play the piano in church!" Well, Keith, as you know, "I married a preacher and the rest is history." I love you for pushing me to do what I thought I couldn't do, and thank you for believing in me.
6. After Wendell and I got engaged he shocked me one day by saying, "Let's go over to the church and practice some songs so we can sing together on the evangelistic field." Once again, I nearly died! I told him I couldn't play and sing at the same time. Besides, he wanted me to play the accordion and him to play the bass and I just KNEW I couldn't do it. Finally, after many mistakes, a few disagreements, some laughter and tears, we got it together!
Many years later my sister, Karla stretched my abilities again. She "expected" me to learn new choir songs that was a different style of music, harder keys, and different beats. Some I never really "got", so I was really thankful for a great bass player and drummer that "knew the beats". Then newer praise and worship choruses were introduced, and for me, they were not "easy" to play. Did I get off the hook just because I didn't know how to play that style? No! I was pushed to learn a different style! Was it my favorite style to play? No! I still liked the "traditional-Pentecostal-out of the songbook-southern gospel style of music." After all, I had worked HOURS to learn to play it so that's what I was comfortable with. I am still not comfortable playing some styles, and honestly do not feel I do a good job at it, but I refuse to give up. Why? I am a musician! I have a talent to give to the Lord, and a desire to be a blessing in His Kingdom. Besides, I was trained and taught that playing in church was the greatest place to use my talents and abilities. Are there musicians that are a whole lot better than me? YES! But, I also know there are some that are awesome in some styles, but really do not know how to play "my style". Am I bragging? No. I have nothing to brag about, but I do have a lot of years of being in the work of God and I'm wanting to stand up and say...
WE NEED MORE MUSICIANS who are COMMITTED to the work of God so much that they'll do WHATEVER IT TAKES to learn what needs to be learned, so they can be a blessing in whatever field they are placed! Don't be so easy on yourself! Musician, APPLY yourself to be more than you are now. You're going to have frustrations and tears, but there is so much JOY when you do the thing you thought you couldn't do! So what if you you don't know how to play "that style". LEARN IT! Find someone one that knows how to play it, and let them teach you. They may feel a little intimidated or even a little old-fashioned, but they have something to teach you. It would do them good to feel they are investing in the future. I know it's not always EASY to play something different, and it seems you'll never "get it", but STRETCH yourself anyway, so that you're able to fulfill the needs of a congregation when called upon.
I really need to go to bed, but feel the urgency to go to the piano to PRACTICE! Unfortunately, that's not possible at this time of night, but as soon as I get a chance I'm heading to the piano and probably to the prayer closet so I won't be too frustrated when I'm learning those new songs. But, one thing for sure, before I get up from the piano I will go back in memory and pull out a "golden-oldie" and sing and play "to my heart's content".
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)