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! 

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!

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!

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.

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!

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! :-)

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!

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:

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.  

SING CHURCH SING!  DON'T LET THE WORLD TAKE YOUR SONG! 

Just Sing!

I've lived a long time, and I do not remember hearing people talk about the "old vs. new" songs as much I hear now. I'm really getting kind of tired of it. :-) Not wanting to get into a discussion about it, please. It's just an observation I've been thinking about. I have decided to go to church, worship God from the depths of my heart, and if I don't know the song, and really don't even like the style of it, what does it matter? If I focus my attention on HIM...I will be doing well. If I can't...then...I'll figure it out at that time, but my worship doesn't depend on anyone else and what they do or don't do. Let's live for God with gladness, and let everyone around us know that we're not "gripey guts"! I say all of this with love, kindness, and goodwill toward my fellow travelers. I will close with this song that is "old, yet new if you've never heard it"... ;-) "I feel like traveling on...I feel like traveling on. My heavenly home is bright and fair, and I feel like traveling on." If the trumpet sounds tonight I will see you all on the other side and we will all be singing a NEW SONG...

P.S.   I really think it is a ploy of the enemy to get us distracted from our worship!  We can get so wrapped up in things we don't like that we become focused on that one thing and lose the meaning of true worship!  

 

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!"       

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...

Another Lesson In Life

I love the following scripture.

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’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!

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!  

 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". 

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".

TWC, TIRED, and LUFKIN

This is probably one of the strangest titles I've used, but here's what it's about.

After ladies conference today I went to eat with friends, then came home.  My husband has a cracked/broken rib, or a pulled muscle, so he hasn't been feeling well.  When I got to the house he was laying down to help relieve the pain, so I decided to rest a little while.  That was about 2:45.  At 3:03 my phone rang and it was my dear friend, Karen.  She asked, "Well, are you wiped out?"  I told her I had just laid down, was tired, but didn't feel "wiped out".  We talked a few more minutes, then hung up.  The next thing I know is when I woke up!  When I looked outside it looked overcast to me.  I walked through the house looking for my husband and found him in the office.  I asked him if it was rainy and he said it was clear skies.  I still couldn't figure out what was going on.  He asked if I was hungry, and I wasn't, but offered to fix him BREAKFAST.  He said that didn't sound good.  I was TOTALLY CONFUSED!  It really took me awhile to figure out that it was 8:00 PM and I had not been asleep ALL NIGHT.  I had just taken a NAP!  Oh me!  I guess I was more tired than I realized!  I don't know when I have taken a NAP and slept like a baby for about FIVE HOURS! 

Since I've come to my senses...I've been thinking about it a little bit.  I believe my spirit had been so refreshed at Texas Women's Conference 2012, and my body so tired that my mind was relaxed and rested knowing that "God has my life in control".  He loves us and believes in us!  His plans are BIG for our lives and He loves DIRECTING our steps.  I absolutely loved the message Sis. Karen Harding brought to us Saturday morning..."THINK BIG...TEXAS"!  I left with renewed strength and excitement for what God has done and what He is going to do!

A little while ago I called my sister, Karla to see if she was home yet.  She wasn't quite there, and it dawned on me that I had been asleep the whole time she was traveling!  Then, I thought..."there's a great advantage to living just one mile from the camp ground where a lot of our main events take place.  :-)  Yes, we had another great TWC!  Yes, I'm TIRED!  And...Yes, I'm glad I live in LUFKIN!

May you all be blessed this weekend and have great revival in your churches!  THINK BIG...TEXAS!  GOD IS DOING GREAT THINGS!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY WISHES

Today is a very special day because it's my husband's birthday!

He is the greatest man I know and I love him more each day.  Steadfast, loyal, loving, solid as a rock, faithful...are just a few of the virtues he possesses.  Wendell is a true Christian!  I trust him with my life both physically and spiritually.  He has been my friend and sweet husband for 39 years and I'm more in love with him today than ever!  God has been good to us.  I wish him a wonderful day and another fantastic year!  Wendell, I love you and always will!

Pray for Protection Over Your Children

While looking through pictures the other day I ran across some that brought a great big THANK YOU to God for always watching over our children. Before Andrew and Mandy got married, we received a call from Mandy telling us that Andrew had been in an accident. He was attending Texas Bible College at the time, and was on his way to see Mandy when this happened.  We knew from the sound of Mandy's voice that it was bad, but she assured us he was okay.  We didn't really know how bad the accident had been until we saw the car.  Then, it really hit home! An 18-wheeler had rear-ended Andrew's little Honda, and it was a miracle it stopped before running over him completely. When the 18-wheeler hit the car, Andrew's drivers seat broke, causing him to fall back and being as tall as he is, the truck stopped just short of crushing his head. I look back and see once again the "mercies of God" on Andrew's life. We are so thankful! Here are the pictures from the accident. This happened about thirteen years ago.

To God be the glory! 

M.A.P. 2012 Was Special for Our Family

Our "kids" came to the M.A.P. Seminar this year.  Jonathan and Andrew will meet the board in February and will be getting Ordained in the Ordination Service at Camp Meeting in June.  Having them here at M.A.P. was very special for all of us.  We are very thankful they are part of the United Pentecostal Church, and are the Pastor's of two wonderful churches in our district.  God has been good to Wendell and I, and our sons have honored us with their lives.  Thank you Jonathan and Andrew for being the men you are.  We are also very, very thankful for our "daughters", Brenda and Mandy!  I want them to know we couldn't have had two daughters of our own any more committed to the things of God than they are.  Thank you both for your steadfast, faithful, commitment to God, our sons, and your churches.  You are both beautiful and we love you so much!  Thank you for loving Dad and I like you do.

Following are pictures we took on the last night of the seminar.  I'm so glad we got the opportunity to take pictures with our special guests, Bro. and Sis. Wayne Huntley and our Texas District Superintendent and his wife, Bro. and Sis. Danny Russo.  We love and respect these two couples very much and thank them for taking the time for this "photo shoot".

Our sons, Jonathan and Andrew with their Dad and Bro. Wayne Huntley.

Elms Family with Pastor and Sis. Wayne Huntley

Jonathan and Brenda, Bro. and Sis. Huntley, Andrew and Mandy having fun taking pictures.

It was special having Bro. and Sis. Huntley here this year.

Brenda, Patsy Huntley, Me, and Mandy

Jonathan and Brenda, Texas District Superintendent D.R. Russo and Sis. Russo, Andrew and Mandy

Elms Family With Bro. and Sis. Russo

Jonathan and Brenda

I think the "nerves" finally let go after a very intense weekend of ministerial training.

I'm glad we got a good picture of them before this happened.  :-)

I love to see our kids so HAPPY!

Andrew and Mandy (they held themselves together pretty good)

I think I spoke to fast!  Now it's our turn to have fun as Andrew and Jonathan look on in "wonder".

We did "pull ourselves together".

I think Mandy was teaching me to dance.

I think I got it! 

I want to say a great big thank you to Shayla Smith for taking the time to be our photographer.  She was so pleasant and fun.  We love you Shayla!

Shayla Marie's Dedication

Dedication Sunday! I woke up in a really good mood.  I don't know what "dedication" means, but I'm sure it's going to be special.

WOW!  I know this is a SPECIAL DAY when there's a picture this pretty being shown.

Daddy gets to hold me and feed me while Papa preaches.  I'm a blessed little girl!

I don't know what all is going on, but it looks like something really neat is getting ready to take place.  I loved watching Papa preach.

Papa finished preaching, then he came down and put his hand on Mommy and Daddy's head.  I'm sure they felt something really special.  They are such sweet parents!  I hope they felt what I did when Papa started praying.  My big sisters were there beside me, too.  It was special having them there.  Mommy said they were dedicated to the Lord just like me!   I may not know much about it now, but I know in a few years I will.  I can't wait to hear the stories of this special day.  Daddy wanted HIS Pastor, and MY Papa to dedicate me.   I'm glad!  I already love my Papa Elms!  Papa also dedicated my big sisters, Savanna and Scarlet AND I got to wear the SAME dedication dress that they did.  I wonder if I'll get it when I grow up?  (Shhhh...don't tell them I said that.  I don't want to have a fuss with my sisters.  It stresses me out!) 

Then, Papa took me in his arms.  I loved his big arms!  He started praying and I know something special happened.  I'm sure I'll understand it when I grow up.  Mommy and Daddy will tell me all about it.  It has something to do about them "giving me back to God".  Maybe I'll grow up to be a preacher's wife, just like Mommy!  All I know right now is that I'm so happy God gave me to one of the most loving families in the whole wide world!  

WHY is Papa crying?  Maybe it's because he loves me SO MUCH!

Awww...that's one of the sweetest kisses a little girl could ever get!  When Papa kisses me it's really, really special.

I got my FIRST BIBLE today!  I think I heard Mimi say something about she likes to give Bibles to her granddaughters on special occasions.  I'm glad she didn't forget ME, since I'm her SIXTH granddaughter! 

Texas District Is On the Move

Tonight is a quiet, relaxing night as I sit here in my recliner.  This past month has been whirlwind of activity in the Texas District, and it feels good to be home.  We have driven hundreds of miles going to Sectional Conferences, and we have stayed in many hotels along the way.  God was good to us and kept His protection around us as we traveled, and we are thankful.  You know, He loves taking care of His children!

After our M.A.P. Seminar the first weekend in January we started our travels.

First Week
Section 4 - Lufkin - Presbyter Mark Green
Section 2 - Port Arthur - Presbyter Darrell McCoy
Section 3 - Pinehurst - Presbyter Darrell Orange
Section 5 - Gun Barrell City - Presbyter Kevin Prince

The Second Week we didn't have any conferences, so we had planned to have Christmas with our kids, but both of our sons had funerals to take care of at their churches, and we also lost a precious lady, Sis. Rhoads. At the end of that week was TBC Legacy Conference and we enjoyed being in church with the young people of the district. 

The Third Week of January we traveled to:
Section 1 - Breckenridge - Presbyter Ken Colegrove
Section 7 - Dallas - Presbyter Gerald McGaha

While in Dallas we had Christmas with Andrew, Mandy and the girls.  Do I need to say we had a GREAT time?  :-)  It's always wonderful being with ouR kids!  There was much excitement even though it was already JANUARY and we were just now getting to give our gifts to each other!  Maybe waiting awhile to get together made it even more special.  Wednesday night we got to be in church with them, and my husband preached a great message.  There's just nothing better than being in service with our kids and granddaughters!  We love every second!


The next day we traveled to:
Section 6 - Wylie - Presbyter Robert Myre

From Wylie, we went to Beaumont to attend the TBC Live Recording at The Apostolic Church.  I am SO glad we got to be there!  It was incredible!  I was so proud of Texas Bible College students and all of the faculty.  God has been good to us in the Texas District and we are very thankful for what is happening in our college.

We stayed for the weekend in Beaumont.  On Saturday evening we had Christmas with Jonathan, Brenda and the girls.  Again, we had an awesome time opening gifts.  It was so funny, because I couldn't remember some of the gifts I had bought back before Christmas, so I had almost as much fun as the girls did.  Sunday was the dedication of our sweet baby, Shayla.  That is always a beautiful time. After having a meal with the family we came home for a night to repack so we could head out again.  (Are y'all tired yet?)

The Last Week of January we only had two conferences.
Section 8 - Corsicana - Presbyter Clay Strawn
Section 9 - Splendora - Presbyter Steve Wehrle

I could give you a lot of details about each conference, but let me just say that UNITY was felt in every conference.  There was a beautiful spirit of love and friendship, and you could tell that the preacher's and wives were enjoying being together.  Bro. Russo asked all of our Presbyter's to preach their conference, and every one of them was great!  They gave a clear sound of revival, unity, and strength.  Also, the ladies got to be together for a little while at each meeting.  I loved getting a lot of hugs and smiles from them.  There is something about just being together as minister's wives that makes one happy.  We left encouraged, ready to see greater things accomplished in 2012!  Thank you ALL for a wonderful time and for accepting us into your "circle of friends" while we were in your area.

I always get a little sad when the last conference rolls around.  I can't help it!  After a month filled with seeing friends all over our district, I hate to see it come to an end.  We have been tired since arriving home, but give us a few days at home and we'll be ready to go again.  There's a lot on the calendar so all I can say is...LET'S GO TEXAS DISTRICT and see what greater things God has planned for us this year.  I am excited and I know those of you who are part of our wonderful district are also!  You can feel it in the air. 

That Book Might Be TRASHED

"I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, For it is the power of God unto salvation..."

I am not ashamed of...the stand on "separation" that my husband has preached through the years, and is not about to change.

I am not ashamed of...the many messages I have heard through my life,  preached by my father and many men of God on "living holy before God".

In fact...I LOVE what I've been taught! Therefore...I am not ashamed to say...

I STILL BELIEVE THE OLD-TIME APOSTOLIC MESSAGE OF REPENTANCE, BAPTISM IN JESUS NAME, AND THE INFILLING OF THE HOLY GHOST WITH THE EVIDENCE OF SPEAKING IN OTHER TONGUES, AND HOLINESS WITHOUT WHICH NO MAN CAN SEE THE LORD!

I am not ashamed to be called..."One of them".

The world has been trying to water down the gospel of Jesus Christ since He walked the face of this earth. It bothers them that they have never been able to do away with the fact that there are people all over the world that have received the gospel, and who live it. Those believer's will die for that which was given to them through the inspired Word of God.

I recently heard from a friend that a well-known speaker/author in the Christian world made some disparaging remarks about Pentecostal women. I am not one that gets offended easily, but this really started me to thinking, because...

I had wanted a particular inspirational book, written by this "well-known speaker/author".  I had told my husband I wanted it, so, for Christmas one of my presents was "that" book. I was happy to get it, but my spirit was troubled within. That may bring a little frown to your brow because I should have been happy, but, before ever asking for the book my heart had already talked to me. "WHY do you need to read a book to inspire you to draw closer to God that's been written by someone you know does not believe the Apostolic message? WHY do you want to read "that" book when you have books on your bookshelf that are written by people you KNOW loves truth, has a walk with God, and you KNOW they fast and pray until the gates of hell are shaken to their foundation? What can you learn from that "Christian writer/speaker" that you can't learn from someone you know personally and trust them with any situation you might face? If you have a need, all you have to do is pick up the phone and call one of your "fasting prayer warriors" and ask them to take your need to the Lord, and when you hang up the phone you know, without a doubt, they will pray for you?"

Six weeks later I have to confess, "that" book is still sitting on my table by my recliner except for when I put it in my "book bag" to travel with me, and I haven't read it, yet. I've picked it up several times to read, but that nagging thought keeps coming at me.  "What can that book teach you..."  I'm now starting to believe it is the Holy Ghost trying to get my attention to NOT read it.

Lest you think I am crazy and have fallen out of the bed and hurt my head...I have MANY books written by people who are not Apostolic.  They do not believe the same as I do, and I have enjoyed learning from people who are well learned in their field. But, as far as I know, they haven't made it a point to ridicule and belittle my faith and the lifestyle I, and many thousands have chosen to live.

In these last days, there is a poison going around that is scaring me!  There are times, I am uncomfortable "hanging" with people that do not love holiness, righteousness, and living a life "separated unto the Lord" like they once did.  I think the "uncomfortable feeling" comes when whoever it is speaks against that which we have loved and cherished.  It's scary to think some have turned away from what they have been taught, yet still profess to be "okay".   Maybe they think it's too old fashioned or it's not necessary to live like "grandma and grandpa" to be saved.  But, I have thought it through many times, trying to figure out what it is in the world that people want.  I can honestly say, there is nothing in this world that beckons me!  My mind is made up!  I'm going to heaven!  I am not saying we should be "isolated" from the world.  I'm not talking about NOT loving the sinner, or the backslider who has failed God.  I want that to be clear!  My heart hurts thinking about those who have lost their way and seem to not be able to find their way back "home".  I am praying for those who are hurting.  If anyone knows me well they know I love people, love to have fun, love to laugh and enjoy life. They also know that I hold on to a clean life-style and godly living. They know that I am not one to quickly condemn and do my best not to judge others. But, my question to ME and to you is...Are we going to allow ourselves to bring in the "poison of carnal thinking" men/women and expect to live through it?

Back to "that" book...I am very seriously thinking about throwing it in the trash and never reading it. I most likely will not listen to the author preach or teach again. I have no use for anyone that attacks the saints of God and belittles them because of their godly life-style. Oh, it's not because they have attacked ME, but because they have spoken against a people who have chosen to live "holy lives unto the Lord". I will not listen to anyone tear down my Apostolic heritage! I love God too much, and the many men and women who have walked the "road of righteousness" to allow it to be diminished to nothing. I would rather throw "that fifteen dollar book" in the trash than to drink in the poison of deception. The more poison you drink, the more it chips away at the bricks and mortar of truth. My peace of mind and clear thinking is worth a whole lot more than FIFTEEN DOLLARS!