Colossians 2:6-7 So then just as you received Christ Jesus as LORD, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and over-flowing with thankfulness.
What a true blessing it has been to write this blog, oh yea, I could have brushed off the thought of making a commitment to write, but would I have been disobedient in that decision? I believe so! As I sit here on the eve of a new year and reflect on the significance of this blog and it`s effect on my life, I am amazed and thankful. God has pierced my heart, soul and emotions encouraging and directing me to walk in and through chambers of sin and darkness deep within. As if that wasn`t terrifying and invasive enough, He has me sharing with the world as the author of His blog! Really, Father God?
Isaiah 55:8-9 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thought than your thoughts."
Guess, my little pea-brain just can`t fathom the wonders and plans of His great love! I recall the day that Pam and I were working on a presentation for an Emmaus talk, when she showed me the stats for this blog, I didn`t even know they existed. I originally believed that this blog would be an account of praying encounters, as I traveled day by day in this incredible journey of life. Wrong, the blog soon took on a new life and directions; imagine that my plans weren`t God`s plans!
Jeremiah 29 11-14 For I know the plans I have for you, "declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you," declares the LORD, " and will bring you back from captivity.........
I looked at this blog as my personal journal and knew that a few friends and niece Mandy, checked it out occasionally. In less than two year of compliance to this commitment to write, over 4700 people around the world have viewed my journal; on a regular basis people from the United States, Russia, Germany, China, Netherlands, Poland, United Kingdom, Slovenia, Australia and India check in on my journey, as I walk hand-in-hand walk with JESUS! I know that in accordance to Internet stats, 4700 views is not astronomical, but for a 60 year old wife, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend in Earleville, Maryland USA, it`s over the top incredible, thank you, God!
Isaiah 44:3-4 For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessings on your descendants. They will spring up like grass in a meadow, like poplar trees by flowing streams.
Father God as we approach the year 2012 of our LORD, I pray that you will continue to allow me to witness for your glory, as I am strengthened and rooted deeper into an intimate( IN TO ME) relationship with you! Thank you for the pruning and the in depth healing; you are the potter and I am the clay, mold me and shape me.! I pray that you have mercy and forgive our ignorance. Father God, please bless your people......my family, my friends, my neighbors and the world. AMEN...
May God Bless and strengthen all who visit His blog, HAPPY NEW YEAR, AMEN........Linda
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Making Christmas Candy Day 374
Proverbs 10:4 Lazy hands make a man poor, but diligent hands bring wealth. Yesterday, I felt the riches of Jesus, as I helped my dear friend Rose. For many years Rose has gifted many loved ones and friends with homemade candy at Christmas. Due to the crippling arthritis that has taken residency in her aging body, she needed my hands and feet to continue her Christmas tradition. Rose directed my steps from the comfort of her chair, as I delighted in the instructions and the conversation! While the chocolate slowly and precisely melted to perfection, we where serenaded by a 1940ish style In The Mood Christmas CD. For hours, Rose flipped through pages of memories, as I hung onto every treasured memento that she shared; stocking filled with fruit nuts and pennies in the toe, gifts of love and compassion that warmed the soul. A love filled home with one daughter, 2 sons, a hard working father and an Italian speaking mother, surviving in a county embarking on the wings of a world war. A life of simplicity and a place at their family table for all, strangers welcomed and fed. A cadet nurse dancing outside with a young friend that would soon experience the devastation of the impending war.
I thank God, for the time that I have to provide assistance to Rose; the gift of time and ones self is the most precious gift that we can give during this season of love, in honor of our savior Jesus Christ! The hours that Rose and I spent together was priceless, thank you God.Candy is done, off for another special visit. I first met 87 year old Dorothy, when she walked into my new and exciting facility, Curves an exercise program for women, in 2003. At the time, Dorothy was a mere babe of 79 years young; she showed up on opening day ready to sign on the dotted line to become a member of this new exercise program.
Her excitement and enthusiasm were contagious, she was joining to improve her health and to prove a point to family members. You see, Dorthy had recently visited with nieces, who had offered her a wheel chair. Imagine that, they thought that I couldn't`t walk on my own, she was appalled! What a joy to witness the strength and stamina that Dorothy`s dedication acquired, not to mention the encouragement that she provided for women of all ages.
My Curves franchise is now a memory, but Dorothy is still going strong. Once I closed the doors, she transferred her membership to another location. With pride and dignity she shared that she now has 1320 workouts under her belt; I created a work-out diva! Linda, I`m in pretty good shape, except for a little swelling in my ankles, what do you think? Dorothy, I think that is amazing and that I am truly blessed; God provided the perfect opportunity for us to meet! Thank you, Father God!
Psalm 139:14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made: your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
You go Dorothy, use it or lose it! Before leaving Dorothy, I knelt in front of her chair, joined hands and together we prayed and thanked God for his mighty blessings.
Two days later as Rick and I were scurring around to finish our Christmas shopping, I ran into another dear friend, Tom Walmsley. Tom and Eleanor have been friends for decades, I went to school with their son, David, we were good buddies. However, through marriages and divorces Dave and I have lost touch, but not the case with his mom and dad. Over the years I would always just happen to run into the two of then, rarely seeing one without the other.
Today Tom was traveling alone, when I inquired about his side-kick, he said she`s at home. As I stared into his eyes, I hear much more than he shared, I asked if it would be alright to stop in. Today was the day, I put actions into my concerns for my life-time friend, and pulled in the drive way!
Still in her night clothes and a warning me not to get to close, I was greeted with a smile of love and compassion. My visit was short but packed full of love, as we reminisced and brought one another up to speed about our families! The Walmsley`s have been a very low maintenance friendship that has been a blessings for more than forty some years. I remember, the first time that Eleanor met Rick, she told him that she always wanted me to marry David; Rick was at a loss for words, I took it as a compliment!
Father God, I thank you for the gift of free-time! As I grow older and perhaps wiser, I thank you for the love and friendships that have knocked on the open doors of my heart. Thank you, for your never failing love, your daughter, Linda.
Now from Mom`s favorite--Psalms 23:6 Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Amen!
Friday, December 9, 2011
Bring it to the Light Day 373
Psalms 36:9 For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light. How often do our feeling and emotions keep us in the dark, feelings of guilt, shame, brokenness, rejection, fear, anger and lies! Jesus Christ paid the debt in full for all of these lies, strongholds and our sins; do you believe it, or is it just head knowledge? Grace is not only God`s undeserved mercy and favor, it is also unearned and can never be repaid.
Romans 13:8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law.
Recently I shared the struggles that my family is dealing with as we seek to help my niece Kim, with her relapse into drug addiction. For weeks and weeks my brother, Ernie and my sister-in-law, Peggy kept Kim`s relapse a secret from me. Where they holding on to the guilt and shame for Kim, hoping to pay her debt? Not possible, however exposing the secret to the light and truth begins the healing process. John 8:32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
Addiction is addiction is addiction, all based on lies that opens the door for Satan to control our thoughts and actions. Drawing us away from the truth of God`s love! Temporarily, I was sucked into the drama, of Kim`s addiction. What can I do, how can I help her; the pain, sadness and disappointment were overwhelming. Could this relapse lead to her death? Should I fly to Kentucky to offer love and support for the family? God says no, stay home and trust me to handle it.
Friday evening I attended a healing service, offering and receiving prayers on Kim`s behalf, trusting God! This prayer service allowed me to stand firm on the promises of God the Father. Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Hebrews 4:16 Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Romans 8:35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble of hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword. 2 Timothy 1:7 For God did not give us the spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. Colossians 3:2 Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things. Ephesians 3:12 In him through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.
Father God your timing is impeccable, just received a phone call from one of my Emmaus sisters, Marcy, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you........my heart is pounding with the presence of the HOLY SPIRIT.......Isaiah 55:8-9 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." Father God, thank you for the love by which so faithfully drench and penetrate our souls! God, please bless Kim and Marcy`s daughter Amy, AMEN!
Romans 13:8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law.
Recently I shared the struggles that my family is dealing with as we seek to help my niece Kim, with her relapse into drug addiction. For weeks and weeks my brother, Ernie and my sister-in-law, Peggy kept Kim`s relapse a secret from me. Where they holding on to the guilt and shame for Kim, hoping to pay her debt? Not possible, however exposing the secret to the light and truth begins the healing process. John 8:32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
Addiction is addiction is addiction, all based on lies that opens the door for Satan to control our thoughts and actions. Drawing us away from the truth of God`s love! Temporarily, I was sucked into the drama, of Kim`s addiction. What can I do, how can I help her; the pain, sadness and disappointment were overwhelming. Could this relapse lead to her death? Should I fly to Kentucky to offer love and support for the family? God says no, stay home and trust me to handle it.
Friday evening I attended a healing service, offering and receiving prayers on Kim`s behalf, trusting God! This prayer service allowed me to stand firm on the promises of God the Father. Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Hebrews 4:16 Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Romans 8:35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble of hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword. 2 Timothy 1:7 For God did not give us the spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. Colossians 3:2 Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things. Ephesians 3:12 In him through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.
Father God your timing is impeccable, just received a phone call from one of my Emmaus sisters, Marcy, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you........my heart is pounding with the presence of the HOLY SPIRIT.......Isaiah 55:8-9 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." Father God, thank you for the love by which so faithfully drench and penetrate our souls! God, please bless Kim and Marcy`s daughter Amy, AMEN!
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Excuse Me, I have To P Day 372
From today`s title you might think that I was scurrying off to relieve myself, but not the case. On the contrary `I`m purposefully filling myself with some vital "P" words. Pray, proclaim, peace, praise, purpose, priority, perseverance and patience; what do you think, a pretty impressive list.
For several days I`ve been scratching and scribbling notes and scriptures references everywhere in preparation for this post, leading me to believe that this message is of signicants for yours truly! Perhaps, God has lots for me to ponder and procure.
For weeks "prayer" has occupied my focus, have I finally preceded the urgency and value of prayer; oh yeah! James 1:5-6 If any of you lack wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. Thank you Father, as for me, I prefer to stand on your promises, I will pray without ceasing! Philippians 4:4-7 Rejoice in the LORD always, I will say it again; Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The LORD is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
I will "proclaim" the good news; Luke 2: 9-11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the LORD. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rest."
The "peace" of the earth will rest upon Jesus! John 10:27-30 "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they fellow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father`s hand. I and the Father are one."
I will " praise" the The LORD, Nehemiah 9:5..........."Stand up and praise the LORD your God, who is from everlasting to everlasting." "Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise. You alone are the LORD. You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you.
Our "purpose" is to love and praise the LORD; as God inhales our praise His exhales his presence! Think of that next time your singing a praise song, your thoughts will erupt into a full blown smile of delight and joy! Keep a song of praise in your heart and smile in your soul, perhaps someone will inquire, opening the door to witness for the LORD! Matthew 22:37-40 Jesus replied; "Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it; "Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandment."
Our "priority" is to focus first on God then all things in our life will fall into alignment! Luke 11:27-28 As Jesus was saying these things, a woman in the crowd called out, "Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you." He replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it." Luke 16:14-15 The Pharisees, who loved money, heard all this and were sneering at Jesus. He said to them, "You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your hearts. What is highly valued among men is detestable in God`s sight." Father God, thank you for so many years, I focused on things of the flesh, rejecting your grace and mercy!
Father,thank you for your "perseverance," knowing that someday the scales would be removed from my eyes! Romans 5:1-5 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our LORD Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into his grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our suffering, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
As needs and struggles arise I will "patiently" wait upon the LORD. Philippians 4:10-13 I rejoice greatly in the LORD that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Lots to ponder! Psalms 86:11-13 Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. I will praise you, O LORD my God, with all of my heart; I will glorify your name forever. For great is your love toward me; you have delivered me from the depths of the grave. AMEN.....thanks Father, for all the extra "P" word that you added to your message!
For several days I`ve been scratching and scribbling notes and scriptures references everywhere in preparation for this post, leading me to believe that this message is of signicants for yours truly! Perhaps, God has lots for me to ponder and procure.
For weeks "prayer" has occupied my focus, have I finally preceded the urgency and value of prayer; oh yeah! James 1:5-6 If any of you lack wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. Thank you Father, as for me, I prefer to stand on your promises, I will pray without ceasing! Philippians 4:4-7 Rejoice in the LORD always, I will say it again; Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The LORD is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
I will "proclaim" the good news; Luke 2: 9-11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the LORD. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rest."
The "peace" of the earth will rest upon Jesus! John 10:27-30 "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they fellow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father`s hand. I and the Father are one."
I will " praise" the The LORD, Nehemiah 9:5..........."Stand up and praise the LORD your God, who is from everlasting to everlasting." "Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise. You alone are the LORD. You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you.
Our "purpose" is to love and praise the LORD; as God inhales our praise His exhales his presence! Think of that next time your singing a praise song, your thoughts will erupt into a full blown smile of delight and joy! Keep a song of praise in your heart and smile in your soul, perhaps someone will inquire, opening the door to witness for the LORD! Matthew 22:37-40 Jesus replied; "Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it; "Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandment."
Our "priority" is to focus first on God then all things in our life will fall into alignment! Luke 11:27-28 As Jesus was saying these things, a woman in the crowd called out, "Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you." He replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it." Luke 16:14-15 The Pharisees, who loved money, heard all this and were sneering at Jesus. He said to them, "You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your hearts. What is highly valued among men is detestable in God`s sight." Father God, thank you for so many years, I focused on things of the flesh, rejecting your grace and mercy!
Father,thank you for your "perseverance," knowing that someday the scales would be removed from my eyes! Romans 5:1-5 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our LORD Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into his grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our suffering, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
As needs and struggles arise I will "patiently" wait upon the LORD. Philippians 4:10-13 I rejoice greatly in the LORD that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Lots to ponder! Psalms 86:11-13 Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. I will praise you, O LORD my God, with all of my heart; I will glorify your name forever. For great is your love toward me; you have delivered me from the depths of the grave. AMEN.....thanks Father, for all the extra "P" word that you added to your message!
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Heaven@ God.org Day 371
Matthew 13:14-16 In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah: "You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. For this people`s heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hears with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them. But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear.
As we approach the season of Advent, the coming of Christ, it is often a season of great despair and depression for many. A time of great sadness, as we mourn loved ones that have passed; creating a void that often opens a pit of emptiness. Satan delights in our sorrow and often attempts to disrupt the joy of Christmas. However, to diminish Satan`s success, what if we could send off heaven-bound e-mails to our loved ones! Of course you`d have to e-mail early to avoid the Christmas rush; I would imagine that Heaven is pretty busy in preparation for "The Heavenly Birthday Bash," for JESUS!
I believe that writing an e-mail would help to heal the pain of separation and our loneliness; just as this blog has opened my soul for the healing and restoration that I have required. So just who would be on your e-mail list and what would you tell them? For me. this might be a long list but if you`ve got time, here I go.
First I`d tell my mom, that a piece of me died when she passed, but Rick has loved me through it. Also mom, God forgave me for the dreadful secret that I kept from you. To my brother Robin, I`d shared that after 40 some years, God had me forgive Larry Alexander. I`d tell daddy, that I understand about his alcoholism and that I will soon celebrate 6 years of sobriety. I`d tell pop-pop Guhl that my brother Ernie has a big belly just like his! To all of my aunts,uncles and cousins, I wished that I would have known you better. David, you where my favorite cousin, oops second cousin, was it because of your accident that you always had time for family?
To Brice my first love and father of our aborted child, I forgive you and will always love you! It took almost 40 years to get you out of my dreams. To my unborn baby, I`m so sorry, so very sorry, I love you so much, please forgive me.........I anxiously await our heavenly reunion! To Brice`s mother, Shirley, I`d say thank you for teaching me to openly love.
Mom-mom Guhl even though I was only 3 when you died, I held onto the pain and separation anxiety for years and years. Struggling for decades, unaware of how much I mourned your sudden death. Mom-mom and Pop Frazer, I have finally seen pictures of both of you, I cried and cried for the love that I never knew.
Joe and Barbara Mullen, thank you for your family of love and the prayers, we have a loving faithful, God! Jay, rest in peace, Garfield! Jimmy, your children are okay, you where a good father and wonderful friend. Shirley, Bobby is just killing time; Jen loves and takes good care of him. I thank God for our friendship....Rick-Mon misses you, too. Karen, I still feel your hand on my shoulder, reminding me that I`d had done so good with sobriety, thanks for the on-going life-time of encouragement.
Mike, Rose is slowing down, but she is a determined and proud little Italian women. Smoke, we`ve never had another neighbor like you. You were like a dad to Rick and I. Do you have a garden in heaven? Mary, I know that your children, grand-children and great grand-childen will struggle to get through Christmas without you, the first is the most difficult.
Father God, thank you for allowing me to write your blog and for the intense healing that I receive. I pray that if anyone is holding on to grief, pain and sorrow for a loved one, that they write them an e-mail......just be sure to have the kleenex box handy!
Isaiah 53:3-5 He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our trangressions, he was crushed for our iniquities, the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are HEALED. AMEN.........................I have great expectations for a wonderful, love-filled and joyous CHRISTMAS!
As we approach the season of Advent, the coming of Christ, it is often a season of great despair and depression for many. A time of great sadness, as we mourn loved ones that have passed; creating a void that often opens a pit of emptiness. Satan delights in our sorrow and often attempts to disrupt the joy of Christmas. However, to diminish Satan`s success, what if we could send off heaven-bound e-mails to our loved ones! Of course you`d have to e-mail early to avoid the Christmas rush; I would imagine that Heaven is pretty busy in preparation for "The Heavenly Birthday Bash," for JESUS!
I believe that writing an e-mail would help to heal the pain of separation and our loneliness; just as this blog has opened my soul for the healing and restoration that I have required. So just who would be on your e-mail list and what would you tell them? For me. this might be a long list but if you`ve got time, here I go.
First I`d tell my mom, that a piece of me died when she passed, but Rick has loved me through it. Also mom, God forgave me for the dreadful secret that I kept from you. To my brother Robin, I`d shared that after 40 some years, God had me forgive Larry Alexander. I`d tell daddy, that I understand about his alcoholism and that I will soon celebrate 6 years of sobriety. I`d tell pop-pop Guhl that my brother Ernie has a big belly just like his! To all of my aunts,uncles and cousins, I wished that I would have known you better. David, you where my favorite cousin, oops second cousin, was it because of your accident that you always had time for family?
To Brice my first love and father of our aborted child, I forgive you and will always love you! It took almost 40 years to get you out of my dreams. To my unborn baby, I`m so sorry, so very sorry, I love you so much, please forgive me.........I anxiously await our heavenly reunion! To Brice`s mother, Shirley, I`d say thank you for teaching me to openly love.
Mom-mom Guhl even though I was only 3 when you died, I held onto the pain and separation anxiety for years and years. Struggling for decades, unaware of how much I mourned your sudden death. Mom-mom and Pop Frazer, I have finally seen pictures of both of you, I cried and cried for the love that I never knew.
Joe and Barbara Mullen, thank you for your family of love and the prayers, we have a loving faithful, God! Jay, rest in peace, Garfield! Jimmy, your children are okay, you where a good father and wonderful friend. Shirley, Bobby is just killing time; Jen loves and takes good care of him. I thank God for our friendship....Rick-Mon misses you, too. Karen, I still feel your hand on my shoulder, reminding me that I`d had done so good with sobriety, thanks for the on-going life-time of encouragement.
Mike, Rose is slowing down, but she is a determined and proud little Italian women. Smoke, we`ve never had another neighbor like you. You were like a dad to Rick and I. Do you have a garden in heaven? Mary, I know that your children, grand-children and great grand-childen will struggle to get through Christmas without you, the first is the most difficult.
Father God, thank you for allowing me to write your blog and for the intense healing that I receive. I pray that if anyone is holding on to grief, pain and sorrow for a loved one, that they write them an e-mail......just be sure to have the kleenex box handy!
Isaiah 53:3-5 He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our trangressions, he was crushed for our iniquities, the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are HEALED. AMEN.........................I have great expectations for a wonderful, love-filled and joyous CHRISTMAS!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Fragrance of Jesus Day 370
2 Corinthian 2:14-15 But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.
What a comforting thought, to God I am the aroma of His son, Jesus Christ! By the grace of God we walk in the sweet fragrance of Jesus......thank you, God! Does this empower and require us to shower the world with bouquets of Jesus. As Christians do we take this blessing for granted; applying only a little dab of Jesus cologne on Sunday? Or do we walk the walk, talk the talk and dispense the loving-scent of Jesus each and every day, no matter where we are? As for me and I friends I desire to smell of the high heavens of Jesus, without fear of offending or worry of my political correctness!
Several times this week I was present in the delightful aroma of Jesus. Sunday morning when I attended worship at Connections Church, the aromatic flavor of Jesus filled the room, quenching my senses for His presence. Later that evening I attended a prayer and worship service for Joseph Feeley, a young man battling terminal brain cancer. Doctors have given up on Joseph and their ability to heal him. That evening with worship music and prayer there was life and hope as hundreds of believers perfumed the prayer service with Jesus.
Jeremiah 31:16-17 This is what the LORD says: "Restrain your voice from weeping and your eyes from tears, for your work will be rewarded," declares the LORD. "They will return from the land of the enemy. So there is hope for your future," declared the LORD. "Your children will return to their own land."
Tuesday evening as I drive a rambunctious group of middle-schoolers home from Generation Station, we rode up on a terrible accident. A phone call soon alerted me that there was a fatality, as the children witnessed the horror of the moment, my first response was to pray. Demanding attention, the aroma of Jesus filled the van as I prayed for the victims and their families; a silence and reverence filled the van, thank you God! With only one more night of driving the van full of teens home, did God use this accident and provide an opportunity for me to witness on His behalf. Long after I`ve stopped driving them home, will they remember that Miss Linda prayed and cried out to God for a strangers behalf? Thank you, Father God.....
Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for your are with me; your rod and your staff they comfort me.......
Father God I pray for the Feeley family and the accident victims and their families, knowing that thy will, will be done. Bless and keep them, drawing them ever closer to YOU! AMEN......
What a comforting thought, to God I am the aroma of His son, Jesus Christ! By the grace of God we walk in the sweet fragrance of Jesus......thank you, God! Does this empower and require us to shower the world with bouquets of Jesus. As Christians do we take this blessing for granted; applying only a little dab of Jesus cologne on Sunday? Or do we walk the walk, talk the talk and dispense the loving-scent of Jesus each and every day, no matter where we are? As for me and I friends I desire to smell of the high heavens of Jesus, without fear of offending or worry of my political correctness!
Several times this week I was present in the delightful aroma of Jesus. Sunday morning when I attended worship at Connections Church, the aromatic flavor of Jesus filled the room, quenching my senses for His presence. Later that evening I attended a prayer and worship service for Joseph Feeley, a young man battling terminal brain cancer. Doctors have given up on Joseph and their ability to heal him. That evening with worship music and prayer there was life and hope as hundreds of believers perfumed the prayer service with Jesus.
Jeremiah 31:16-17 This is what the LORD says: "Restrain your voice from weeping and your eyes from tears, for your work will be rewarded," declares the LORD. "They will return from the land of the enemy. So there is hope for your future," declared the LORD. "Your children will return to their own land."
Tuesday evening as I drive a rambunctious group of middle-schoolers home from Generation Station, we rode up on a terrible accident. A phone call soon alerted me that there was a fatality, as the children witnessed the horror of the moment, my first response was to pray. Demanding attention, the aroma of Jesus filled the van as I prayed for the victims and their families; a silence and reverence filled the van, thank you God! With only one more night of driving the van full of teens home, did God use this accident and provide an opportunity for me to witness on His behalf. Long after I`ve stopped driving them home, will they remember that Miss Linda prayed and cried out to God for a strangers behalf? Thank you, Father God.....
Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for your are with me; your rod and your staff they comfort me.......
Father God I pray for the Feeley family and the accident victims and their families, knowing that thy will, will be done. Bless and keep them, drawing them ever closer to YOU! AMEN......
Sunday, November 20, 2011
No News Is Good News, Wrong! Day 369
On October 10, 2010 I shared the story "My baby Girl," about my niece Kim and her struggles with drug addiction; an account of our love and relationship. That story had a happy ending but this one, not so much! After nearly 2 years of sobriety, Kim fell off the wagon and fell hard into an existence that I can hardly fathom. She was well on the road to what you might call "normal," but in the life of addiction and dysfunction what is normal?
According to Webster, normal is conforming to the standard or the common type; usual. Average in any psychological trait, as intelligence or personality. Free from any mental disorder.
In a life of sobriety we must choose and learn to receive a new normal. With nearly 6 years of sobriety under my belt, it is difficult for me to comprehend how Kim allowed herself to return to this life of deadly bondage. However, in recovery this is often the norm, it is not uncommon to have 6-7 unsuccessful attempts at recovery. Is it when the addict doesn`t stay connected to a 12 step program or maintain an intimate relationship with God, that we open the door for Satan to do his dirty deeds?
I have known for months and months that Kim was struggling but nothing I said would penetrate the hold of her demons. It is by the grace of God that I have successfully achieved nearly 6 years of sobriety. Romans16:20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you. Even though I did not participate in a 12 step program, it is as if God has taken me by the hand every step of the way; one hour at a time, one day at a time, one month at a time one, and one year at a time. Would that be "The Hand of God Program," wanna join? Thank you, Father God! John 8:31-32...Jesus said, "If you hold to my teachings, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
I urged Kim to participate in a 12 step program and to get connected in a good church, however my advice fell to a deaf ear. Instead she was held captive by strongholds and lies, trying to battle an earthly authority that was beyond her will and her power. 1 John 3:7-8 Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. He who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. He who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil`s work.
Father God, I love Kim so much....... it is so painful to know what is happening to her, Father I pray that you will send angels to rescue from from the evil grip that Satan has on her. Father God, please protect my baby girl! Father you are the great physician please heal her brokenness and restore her for your glory. PLEASE FATHER! Father, I pray that you will prepare Kim`s entire family to the fight for her life! Philippians 4:13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Psalm 103:2-5 Praise the LORD; O my soul, and forget not all his benefit---who forgives all your sins and heals all your disease, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desire with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle`s.
Thank you for this time with you Father God......I pray that anyone who reads this will pray for "My Baby Girl, Kim." thank you, AMEN, Linda
According to Webster, normal is conforming to the standard or the common type; usual. Average in any psychological trait, as intelligence or personality. Free from any mental disorder.
In a life of sobriety we must choose and learn to receive a new normal. With nearly 6 years of sobriety under my belt, it is difficult for me to comprehend how Kim allowed herself to return to this life of deadly bondage. However, in recovery this is often the norm, it is not uncommon to have 6-7 unsuccessful attempts at recovery. Is it when the addict doesn`t stay connected to a 12 step program or maintain an intimate relationship with God, that we open the door for Satan to do his dirty deeds?
I have known for months and months that Kim was struggling but nothing I said would penetrate the hold of her demons. It is by the grace of God that I have successfully achieved nearly 6 years of sobriety. Romans16:20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you. Even though I did not participate in a 12 step program, it is as if God has taken me by the hand every step of the way; one hour at a time, one day at a time, one month at a time one, and one year at a time. Would that be "The Hand of God Program," wanna join? Thank you, Father God! John 8:31-32...Jesus said, "If you hold to my teachings, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
I urged Kim to participate in a 12 step program and to get connected in a good church, however my advice fell to a deaf ear. Instead she was held captive by strongholds and lies, trying to battle an earthly authority that was beyond her will and her power. 1 John 3:7-8 Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. He who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. He who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil`s work.
Father God, I love Kim so much....... it is so painful to know what is happening to her, Father I pray that you will send angels to rescue from from the evil grip that Satan has on her. Father God, please protect my baby girl! Father you are the great physician please heal her brokenness and restore her for your glory. PLEASE FATHER! Father, I pray that you will prepare Kim`s entire family to the fight for her life! Philippians 4:13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Psalm 103:2-5 Praise the LORD; O my soul, and forget not all his benefit---who forgives all your sins and heals all your disease, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desire with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle`s.
Thank you for this time with you Father God......I pray that anyone who reads this will pray for "My Baby Girl, Kim." thank you, AMEN, Linda
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