"I would rather live my life as if there is a God, and die to find out there isn't, than live my life
as if there isn't, and die to find out there is."
This is a quote that I received in an email today. I find it interesting that it came today. But, for me, it just proves that God is very involved in our lives and knows how to affirm us if we allow Him to.
Last night I had dinner with two of my friends. On the way to the restaurant I was relishing in one of the rare moments of alone time with God. It's very difficult to find alone time when you have 5 kids- one of them being a 3-year-old.
The CD playing in the car was a compilation disc that I play quite often in the car. It is a variety of Petra songs.
My favorite Petra song is "Adonai". As I drove down the highway, singing along with the music, I began to visualize my Master speaking everything into existence. My minds eye saw Him speak the stars into existence, His majestic hand reaching out to place each star in its specific place. I saw Him become playful, smiling, because He "saw that it was good."
One of my favorite ways to worship God is in nature. No, I do not worship nature itself, but I smile because I see that "it is good". Adonai alone is worthy of my praise and worship.
All of nature cries out to Him. All things were made to worship God Almighty. It is such an honor and pleasure to me to know Him and worship Him.
When I read the quote that I opened with today it fit so perfect with my thoughts. I know that I am not wrong in my beliefs. I know without a shadow of a doubt that God IS real. I know that He alone created the heavens and the earth and all that is within, above and below. However, in the minuscule "chance" that I am wrong, I would much rather worship God in my life, and find out in my death that He does not exist than not worship Him and believe in Him in my life and find out in my death that He DOES exist.
Each of us are given a choice. I cannot make anyone believe in my Creator. My heart aches for those who do not believe in Him and know Him as their Savior. But we are all given free will.
Lord God, how I pray for those who do not know You. I truly cannot imagine my life without You. My Adonai, You are the Master of the earth and sky. You alone are worthy.
I continue to pray for Congresswoman Giffords. I cannot wait for the day she walks back onto the floor of Congress. What a day of rejoicing that will be!
I pray for this nation. Lord God, we need You desperately. I pray that hearts will be humbled before You. I pray that this nation will repent of her sins. I pray for our President. I pray for all elected leaders, that each of them will be safe. Protect them from harm. Humble each of them before You, that they will turn their eyes upon You and seek Your will for this country.
I pray for Israel. The entire world is coming against her. I know it is prophesied and will happen. I know You are in control. But I pray for Your chosen people.
I pray all of these things in the precious Name of Jesus Christ- Amen.
Showing posts with label Truth. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Truth. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Friday, April 1, 2011
ONE DAY
"Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." Philippians 2:9-11 (NIV)
One day, every knee WILL bow, and every tongue WILL confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. For me, it will be the most awaited day of all of my life. To be at the feet of my Jesus, loving Him, honoring Him, praising Him. For others, it will not be such a glorious day. I pray for these people.
I do not believe that these people have long to wait. I am so excited for that! Daily, the news points to that coming day when this scripture will come true:
"I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. "He will rule them with an iron scepter." He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written:
KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS."
Revelation 19:11-16
Oh Glorious Day!
People get ready! Jesus is coming! He is not willing that any should perish!
Lord, every day time grows shorter and shorter. While people have been saying this for thousands of years, and it still may be a long time in our view, we never know when we will breathe our last breath. I pray that You will open blinded eyes and soften hardened hearts.
I continue to pray for Congresswoman Giffords. I read a tweet today saying that she may run for Senate. Nothing has come out officially, but if this is even being discussed then it appears as though things are looking absolutely amazing for her! All glory, honor and praise be to You, Jesus, for the miracle in her life. I also continue to pray that the man that acted out this heinous attack will be given justice. Please do not allow political correctness to prevent justice in this.
I pray for President Obama. Lord, I get so angry! Please help me to not sin in my anger, where it concerns the man that is our president. I continue to pray that he will humble his heart before You, Jesus.
I pray for this nation. I pray that people will wake up and stand up for what is right. I believe many people have, but there are still too many who are complacent.
I pray for the nation of Israel. Protect her and bless her beyond measure.
I praise You for the mighty work You have done in my life. If it were not for my faith in You, I do not believe I would be alive today. Thank You for never giving up on me!
I pray all of these things in the precious Name of my Savior Jesus Christ- Amen.
One day, every knee WILL bow, and every tongue WILL confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. For me, it will be the most awaited day of all of my life. To be at the feet of my Jesus, loving Him, honoring Him, praising Him. For others, it will not be such a glorious day. I pray for these people.
I do not believe that these people have long to wait. I am so excited for that! Daily, the news points to that coming day when this scripture will come true:
"I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. "He will rule them with an iron scepter." He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written:
KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS."
Revelation 19:11-16
Oh Glorious Day!
People get ready! Jesus is coming! He is not willing that any should perish!
Lord, every day time grows shorter and shorter. While people have been saying this for thousands of years, and it still may be a long time in our view, we never know when we will breathe our last breath. I pray that You will open blinded eyes and soften hardened hearts.
I continue to pray for Congresswoman Giffords. I read a tweet today saying that she may run for Senate. Nothing has come out officially, but if this is even being discussed then it appears as though things are looking absolutely amazing for her! All glory, honor and praise be to You, Jesus, for the miracle in her life. I also continue to pray that the man that acted out this heinous attack will be given justice. Please do not allow political correctness to prevent justice in this.
I pray for President Obama. Lord, I get so angry! Please help me to not sin in my anger, where it concerns the man that is our president. I continue to pray that he will humble his heart before You, Jesus.
I pray for this nation. I pray that people will wake up and stand up for what is right. I believe many people have, but there are still too many who are complacent.
I pray for the nation of Israel. Protect her and bless her beyond measure.
I praise You for the mighty work You have done in my life. If it were not for my faith in You, I do not believe I would be alive today. Thank You for never giving up on me!
I pray all of these things in the precious Name of my Savior Jesus Christ- Amen.
Monday, March 28, 2011
ANGEL OF LIGHT
Yesterday I took my girls out for the day with me. We went to get their hair cut, stopped in a couple of different places to pick up some things I needed, picked up snow cones for everyone and headed home.
As we were driving around, music playing, the two girls singling along with the music, my 9-year-old asked me, "Mom, when he is singing about the angel of light is he talking about Satan?"
This is one of those moments as a Mommy where you just have to smile in amazement! Yes, she actually gets it! I told her yes, that's exactly who it was talking about, what made her realize that. She told me that when he was singing about "you lied from the beginning" she knew it couldn't be God because God doesn't want us to lie. Ahhhh, the beauty of innocence!
The song we were listening to is "Angel of Light" by Petra. You never know what will be the one thing that helps someone understand something, whether they are a child or adult.
After this question we had a long discussion about how Satan presents himself to us as light when in reality he is darkness. It was a great conversation- one I will never forget! It's the one moment in time where I know without a doubt she gets it! It is the answer to the prayers of this mommy's heart!
Little could I have known that at that very moment we, as a family, were caught up in the deception of The Angel of Light.
Rather than going into further detail here I am simply going to add the link to the article I posted on the other site I contribute to. If you want to know the rest of the story, please click this link: Out Of The Frying Pan Into The Fire
Lord God, I thank You for revealing the Truth in the deceptions of the Angel of Light. Please continue to protect my family from the enemy. I know he seeks to steal, kill and destroy every single one of us. I pray that You will place Your arms of protection around all of our lives and souls.
I pray tonight for Congresswoman Giffords. Protect her from any lies that Satan is telling her. Help her to hold on to Your truth in her healing and recovery.
I pray for this nation. I pray that we as a nation will have our blinded eyes opened to the lies of Satan. So many have fallen for his lies. He is stealing, killing and destroying this nation. I pray that the people will wake up!
I pray for President Obama! There are so many lies that encircle his administration! I pray that You will shine Your light of Truth on all aspects of this presidency and his entire administration. I pray also for all of our elected leaders. There are many lies intertwined throughout our entire government system. Both parties- Republicans and Democrats- are guilty of lying to us and each other in leadership. I pray that Your light of Truth will shine on all of our elected officials.
I pray for the nation and people of Israel. Hold them safe in Your arms of love and protection. Guide them to Your Light of Truth.
I pray all of these things in the precious Name of Your Son Jesus Christ- Amen.
ANGEL OF LIGHT
Performed by Petra
Words and music by Bob HartmanCity lights are flashing, they call you to the streets
Hearts are filled with passion in everyone you meet
The Boulevard is waiting, it wants to get you high
Neon signs are waiting to sell you anything you want to buy
But I know your devices, it shouldn't seem so odd
You lied from the beginning, I see through your facade
(Chorus)
Angel of light, I see you glow in the night
But you only bring darkness to my soul
Angel of light, You're telling me wrong is right
I won't let you're evil take control
They follow in your footsteps not knowing that you fell
Bumper to bumper on the freeway to hell
You lead them into wrong and you make it look so right
You lead them into darkness and make them think you lead them into light
But I know where you're going, too bad you're not alone
If it wasn't for the real light I might have never known
You got the clergy working overtime to widen the narrow way
You've got politicians everywhere listening to what you say
You've got false apostles teaching lies perverting the only way
You've got principalities and powers waiting to obey
You've got philosophies and vain deceits lying to deceive
You've got hate, and greed, ungodly lusts in the deadly web you weave
Somehow you've got so many thinking you're not even there
One look is all it takes to get them blinded by your glare
As we were driving around, music playing, the two girls singling along with the music, my 9-year-old asked me, "Mom, when he is singing about the angel of light is he talking about Satan?"
This is one of those moments as a Mommy where you just have to smile in amazement! Yes, she actually gets it! I told her yes, that's exactly who it was talking about, what made her realize that. She told me that when he was singing about "you lied from the beginning" she knew it couldn't be God because God doesn't want us to lie. Ahhhh, the beauty of innocence!
The song we were listening to is "Angel of Light" by Petra. You never know what will be the one thing that helps someone understand something, whether they are a child or adult.
After this question we had a long discussion about how Satan presents himself to us as light when in reality he is darkness. It was a great conversation- one I will never forget! It's the one moment in time where I know without a doubt she gets it! It is the answer to the prayers of this mommy's heart!
Little could I have known that at that very moment we, as a family, were caught up in the deception of The Angel of Light.
Rather than going into further detail here I am simply going to add the link to the article I posted on the other site I contribute to. If you want to know the rest of the story, please click this link: Out Of The Frying Pan Into The Fire
Lord God, I thank You for revealing the Truth in the deceptions of the Angel of Light. Please continue to protect my family from the enemy. I know he seeks to steal, kill and destroy every single one of us. I pray that You will place Your arms of protection around all of our lives and souls.
I pray tonight for Congresswoman Giffords. Protect her from any lies that Satan is telling her. Help her to hold on to Your truth in her healing and recovery.
I pray for this nation. I pray that we as a nation will have our blinded eyes opened to the lies of Satan. So many have fallen for his lies. He is stealing, killing and destroying this nation. I pray that the people will wake up!
I pray for President Obama! There are so many lies that encircle his administration! I pray that You will shine Your light of Truth on all aspects of this presidency and his entire administration. I pray also for all of our elected leaders. There are many lies intertwined throughout our entire government system. Both parties- Republicans and Democrats- are guilty of lying to us and each other in leadership. I pray that Your light of Truth will shine on all of our elected officials.
I pray for the nation and people of Israel. Hold them safe in Your arms of love and protection. Guide them to Your Light of Truth.
I pray all of these things in the precious Name of Your Son Jesus Christ- Amen.
ANGEL OF LIGHT
Performed by Petra
Words and music by Bob HartmanCity lights are flashing, they call you to the streets
Hearts are filled with passion in everyone you meet
The Boulevard is waiting, it wants to get you high
Neon signs are waiting to sell you anything you want to buy
But I know your devices, it shouldn't seem so odd
You lied from the beginning, I see through your facade
(Chorus)
Angel of light, I see you glow in the night
But you only bring darkness to my soul
Angel of light, You're telling me wrong is right
I won't let you're evil take control
They follow in your footsteps not knowing that you fell
Bumper to bumper on the freeway to hell
You lead them into wrong and you make it look so right
You lead them into darkness and make them think you lead them into light
But I know where you're going, too bad you're not alone
If it wasn't for the real light I might have never known
You got the clergy working overtime to widen the narrow way
You've got politicians everywhere listening to what you say
You've got false apostles teaching lies perverting the only way
You've got principalities and powers waiting to obey
You've got philosophies and vain deceits lying to deceive
You've got hate, and greed, ungodly lusts in the deadly web you weave
Somehow you've got so many thinking you're not even there
One look is all it takes to get them blinded by your glare
WHO CAN SATISFY?
I love music. And when I like a song, you know it. Yes, I am one of "those" who will play a song over and over and over. I have literally had one song on perpetual "repeat" for weeks at a time. It drives my husband crazy.
Some time ago, I was listening to a sermon online by Dr. David Jeremiah. Before the sermon started, the choir at his church sang a song that drew me in. It's just one of those songs you cannot get out of your head. So, I went searching. It's not a highly popular song, so I have not really been able to find a decent recording of it. Oh, how I wish I could have a copy of his church choir singing it!
I will enclose the lyrics of the song, as well as a YouTube video of it at the end of this post.
In listening to the song I began to think about the words and the meaning of them in my life. I guess that is one reason why it hit me the way it did.
Putting all this in perspective in another way is the fact that I am doing my Spring Cleaning. If you read my previous post you know that it has turned into a completely different project this year than it has any other year.
I- we- my family... has all this STUFF! So much of it there is absolutely no purpose or reason for having it. It is just here, occupying space, and in some instances, actually getting in the way.
I am actually a very sentimental person. After my first husband's suicide I went through counseling and Survivors of Suicide group therapy. One thing that I realized through that process and my overall healing is that all the stuff is not the memories. The memories last forever. The stuff is just that... stuff!
Another thing I came to realize over the overall healing process is that sometimes we hold onto things for sentimental reasons and rather than helping us they in fact hurt us. While I loved my first husband, we had a very tumultuous relationship in a lot of ways. No, he never physically abused me, but in many ways we did not treat each other with love and respect.
I've gone through several different periods of cleaning out. Before this process I would have held onto everything I could just because it was some link to the past. But as I began the deep soul-searching in my healing I realized that in some of these things the memories are not pleasant at all. So I began to question myself on why I would hold onto things that do not bring me happy memories.
This Spring Cleaning is different from that in that I am not getting rid of bad memories... I am simply getting rid of things that do not have a purpose and a reason to share space with my family and I in our home.
So, in all of this, again, my mind has been whirling. I'm sure by now, if you've read any of my blog, you know that I tend to think things over too much sometimes. So I have been asking myself, "Why? Why do we have all of these things if we do not really need them?" As I've pondered this, I've come to realize a lot of things.
I am not the kind of person that thinks "things" are the key to happiness. I am also one of the rare women who absolutely DETESTS shopping! If I go shopping I go get exactly what I need and get out. I absolutely HATE shopping for clothes with a purple passion because I know I am going to have to try things on! This just takes up too much of my time!
But yet I still get caught up in this rat race. I too am looking for "satisfaction" in things.
For me I think it is more the "satisfaction of being prepared"... you know, "well, one day I may need this!"
And yet, interestingly enough I am absolutely not a pack-rat! Everything has to have it's place! Unfortunately, too many things have a place!
How often we look for everything in the world to satisfy our soul. We chase fame and fortune, friends, the coolest car, the best job.... the list could go on and on.
We are chasing everything and everyone to give us the satisfaction we crave. There is an overflowing fountain that can and will satisfy every craving of our soul. He is The King of kings! He is a victorious Warrior fighting for us in all that we do. He is The Lord of everything that is, has been or ever will be. He is my Rock. He is my Shelter. He is my very own! He is my blessed Redeemer Who reigns upon the throne! He is indeed the only One Who can satisfy the cravings of my soul.
My Jesus... You alone satisfy all that I need! I have many blessings in my life, but the only true satsifcation is in You.
Lord God, please forgive me for losing sight in the rat-race that is life. I am the world's worst in slowing down. I know that You understand me like no other person ever will. You created me. You know what makes me tick. And You know how to reach me when I'm fluttering around. Most of the time it is through music.
I pray tonight for anyone who reads this blog and sees themselves in anything that I have written. I pray that You will use my passion for writing to bless other lives.
Lord.... tonight I pray for those of the Muslim faith. This has been an issue that has been truly on my heart. I've not known exactly how to pray for them, but it has been a constant on my mind and heart for years. I know that You know my thoughts and prayers even when I do not. Tonight, I put this before You. I pray for the women who are victimized by this religion. I pray for any and all of those who are training to martyr themselves in the hopes of paradise. Lord God, this is nothing but a lie from the very pits of hell! I do not understand how anyone would so freely serve a god who expects them to die and kill others to earn their reward. I pray for the people of this religion- that their eyes will be opened. So many say that they serve the same god we do. No, this is not at all true! You, Lord God, are the God of love and peace and forgiveness! You have never called us to kill unbelievers! You tell us to forgive those who hurt us. The Muslim god calls for death to those who do not believe as they do.
I continue to pray for Congresswoman Giffords. Continue to heal her heart, mind, body and soul from this vicious attack against her.
I pray for this nation. I pray that we would be united, standing up for what this nation truly stands for!
I pray for our president. Give him wisdom. Humble his heart.
I pray for the nation and people of Israel. There is such a hatred for Your chosen people, Lord God. I know this is foretold in Your Word, but my heart truly aches at the hostility that is directed at them. Protect them and keep them always!
I pray all of these things in the precious Name of Jesus Christ- Amen.
Who Can Satisfy
Words and Music by Dennis Jernigan
Who can satisfy my soul
Who on earth can comfort me
And love me like You do
Who could ever be more faithful and true
I will trust in You
I will trust in You my God
There is a fountain
Who is a King
Victorious warrior and Lord of everything
My rock my shleter my very own
Blessed Redeemer
Who reigns upon the throne
Who could ever be more faithful and true
I will trust in You
I will trust in You
I will trust in You my God
Who reigns upon the throne
Who reigns upon the throne
© 1989 Shepherd's Heart Music, Inc.
This recording is not very good, but the song is AWESOME!
My victorious Warrior reigns upon the throne!
Some time ago, I was listening to a sermon online by Dr. David Jeremiah. Before the sermon started, the choir at his church sang a song that drew me in. It's just one of those songs you cannot get out of your head. So, I went searching. It's not a highly popular song, so I have not really been able to find a decent recording of it. Oh, how I wish I could have a copy of his church choir singing it!
I will enclose the lyrics of the song, as well as a YouTube video of it at the end of this post.
In listening to the song I began to think about the words and the meaning of them in my life. I guess that is one reason why it hit me the way it did.
Putting all this in perspective in another way is the fact that I am doing my Spring Cleaning. If you read my previous post you know that it has turned into a completely different project this year than it has any other year.
I- we- my family... has all this STUFF! So much of it there is absolutely no purpose or reason for having it. It is just here, occupying space, and in some instances, actually getting in the way.
I am actually a very sentimental person. After my first husband's suicide I went through counseling and Survivors of Suicide group therapy. One thing that I realized through that process and my overall healing is that all the stuff is not the memories. The memories last forever. The stuff is just that... stuff!
Another thing I came to realize over the overall healing process is that sometimes we hold onto things for sentimental reasons and rather than helping us they in fact hurt us. While I loved my first husband, we had a very tumultuous relationship in a lot of ways. No, he never physically abused me, but in many ways we did not treat each other with love and respect.
I've gone through several different periods of cleaning out. Before this process I would have held onto everything I could just because it was some link to the past. But as I began the deep soul-searching in my healing I realized that in some of these things the memories are not pleasant at all. So I began to question myself on why I would hold onto things that do not bring me happy memories.
This Spring Cleaning is different from that in that I am not getting rid of bad memories... I am simply getting rid of things that do not have a purpose and a reason to share space with my family and I in our home.
So, in all of this, again, my mind has been whirling. I'm sure by now, if you've read any of my blog, you know that I tend to think things over too much sometimes. So I have been asking myself, "Why? Why do we have all of these things if we do not really need them?" As I've pondered this, I've come to realize a lot of things.
I am not the kind of person that thinks "things" are the key to happiness. I am also one of the rare women who absolutely DETESTS shopping! If I go shopping I go get exactly what I need and get out. I absolutely HATE shopping for clothes with a purple passion because I know I am going to have to try things on! This just takes up too much of my time!
But yet I still get caught up in this rat race. I too am looking for "satisfaction" in things.
For me I think it is more the "satisfaction of being prepared"... you know, "well, one day I may need this!"
And yet, interestingly enough I am absolutely not a pack-rat! Everything has to have it's place! Unfortunately, too many things have a place!
How often we look for everything in the world to satisfy our soul. We chase fame and fortune, friends, the coolest car, the best job.... the list could go on and on.
We are chasing everything and everyone to give us the satisfaction we crave. There is an overflowing fountain that can and will satisfy every craving of our soul. He is The King of kings! He is a victorious Warrior fighting for us in all that we do. He is The Lord of everything that is, has been or ever will be. He is my Rock. He is my Shelter. He is my very own! He is my blessed Redeemer Who reigns upon the throne! He is indeed the only One Who can satisfy the cravings of my soul.
My Jesus... You alone satisfy all that I need! I have many blessings in my life, but the only true satsifcation is in You.
Lord God, please forgive me for losing sight in the rat-race that is life. I am the world's worst in slowing down. I know that You understand me like no other person ever will. You created me. You know what makes me tick. And You know how to reach me when I'm fluttering around. Most of the time it is through music.
I pray tonight for anyone who reads this blog and sees themselves in anything that I have written. I pray that You will use my passion for writing to bless other lives.
Lord.... tonight I pray for those of the Muslim faith. This has been an issue that has been truly on my heart. I've not known exactly how to pray for them, but it has been a constant on my mind and heart for years. I know that You know my thoughts and prayers even when I do not. Tonight, I put this before You. I pray for the women who are victimized by this religion. I pray for any and all of those who are training to martyr themselves in the hopes of paradise. Lord God, this is nothing but a lie from the very pits of hell! I do not understand how anyone would so freely serve a god who expects them to die and kill others to earn their reward. I pray for the people of this religion- that their eyes will be opened. So many say that they serve the same god we do. No, this is not at all true! You, Lord God, are the God of love and peace and forgiveness! You have never called us to kill unbelievers! You tell us to forgive those who hurt us. The Muslim god calls for death to those who do not believe as they do.
I continue to pray for Congresswoman Giffords. Continue to heal her heart, mind, body and soul from this vicious attack against her.
I pray for this nation. I pray that we would be united, standing up for what this nation truly stands for!
I pray for our president. Give him wisdom. Humble his heart.
I pray for the nation and people of Israel. There is such a hatred for Your chosen people, Lord God. I know this is foretold in Your Word, but my heart truly aches at the hostility that is directed at them. Protect them and keep them always!
I pray all of these things in the precious Name of Jesus Christ- Amen.
Who Can Satisfy
Words and Music by Dennis Jernigan
Who can satisfy my soul
Who on earth can comfort me
And love me like You do
Who could ever be more faithful and true
I will trust in You
I will trust in You my God
There is a fountain
Who is a King
Victorious warrior and Lord of everything
My rock my shleter my very own
Blessed Redeemer
Who reigns upon the throne
Who could ever be more faithful and true
I will trust in You
I will trust in You
I will trust in You my God
Who reigns upon the throne
Who reigns upon the throne
© 1989 Shepherd's Heart Music, Inc.
This recording is not very good, but the song is AWESOME!
My victorious Warrior reigns upon the throne!
Sunday, March 27, 2011
BLESSED OR SPOILED?
I am in the midst of Spring Cleaning. This year, I have a completely different attitude than I've had in a very long time.
While I've gone through different stages over the years, so much of the time my Spring Cleaning ends up being just getting rid of clothes that no longer fit the kids and doing my really deep cleaning, like behind the refrigerator and things of that nature that are not in my weekly list of chores.
This year, something is different. I am getting rid of so many things that we just do not use!
As I am going through the kids clothes I am amazed at how much we have amassed. God has blessed us beyond measure, in this area! I am all about a bargain, and with 5 children that is an absolute must! A lot of my children's clothes are hand-me-downs, but the ones that are bought for them are without a doubt a bargain! And I am not at all ashamed to say this!
I had hoped to finish my Spring Cleaning this weekend, but, it is not going to happen. I am finding that I am looking at everything differently. If we do not use it or need it, it is going out!
This has brought me to a question within myself. Yes, without a doubt I know that we are blessed beyond measure! However, have these blessings turned into making us nothing more than spoiled brats? I pray that I will never take for granted the many blessings God has given me and my family, but when I sit down and really think about all that we have..... yes, sadly, I do take it all for granted.
Several natural disasters have hit the world in the last couple of years. While yes, there are always natural disasters, in a day and time when there is 24-hour news coverage of these disasters I believe it has a different effect than previously.
When we are inundated with the images of so much grief and destruction... how do we respond? Do we go into a shell and mourn for the loss that others experience? Do we look around at our surroundings and realize that in an instant all that we have can be gone? It is a sobering thought.
Yes, I am blessed beyond measure. But I am also very spoiled.
Lord God, I thank You for Your abundant blessings in my life. While I know that I am not only blessed, but also the realization has hit that I am also very spoiled. It is time for me to get back to the basics. If something is not needed or used or does not have a place in our home, it is time to let it go.I pray that You will help me look through these renewed eyes as I continue this Spring Cleaning.
I pray for this nation. We, as a nation, are blessed beyond measure as well! In this new realization I have become so very sad for America! Very few people realize how blessed we are, I believe. I pray that this nation will wake up before it is too late! I pray that this nation will humble herself before You and praise You for Your endless blessings in this nation.
I pray for our President. I pray for all elected leaders who are making our laws. So many laws of this land are being broken. Lord God, I pray for truth and justice to prevail!
As always, I pray for Congresswoman Giffords. She is truly blessed in her life being spared by the senseless attack on her! I pray that this nation would look upon the miracle of her life and realize the blessing and miracle You have shown us through her.
I pray for the nation and people of Israel. Lord God, every day more and more anger is being hurled upon Your chosen people! Keep them safe, I pray. Hide them in the shadow of Your wings (Psalm 91).
I pray all of these things in the Name of Jesus Christ- Giver of Life and all blessings- Amen!
While I've gone through different stages over the years, so much of the time my Spring Cleaning ends up being just getting rid of clothes that no longer fit the kids and doing my really deep cleaning, like behind the refrigerator and things of that nature that are not in my weekly list of chores.
This year, something is different. I am getting rid of so many things that we just do not use!
As I am going through the kids clothes I am amazed at how much we have amassed. God has blessed us beyond measure, in this area! I am all about a bargain, and with 5 children that is an absolute must! A lot of my children's clothes are hand-me-downs, but the ones that are bought for them are without a doubt a bargain! And I am not at all ashamed to say this!
I had hoped to finish my Spring Cleaning this weekend, but, it is not going to happen. I am finding that I am looking at everything differently. If we do not use it or need it, it is going out!
This has brought me to a question within myself. Yes, without a doubt I know that we are blessed beyond measure! However, have these blessings turned into making us nothing more than spoiled brats? I pray that I will never take for granted the many blessings God has given me and my family, but when I sit down and really think about all that we have..... yes, sadly, I do take it all for granted.
Several natural disasters have hit the world in the last couple of years. While yes, there are always natural disasters, in a day and time when there is 24-hour news coverage of these disasters I believe it has a different effect than previously.
When we are inundated with the images of so much grief and destruction... how do we respond? Do we go into a shell and mourn for the loss that others experience? Do we look around at our surroundings and realize that in an instant all that we have can be gone? It is a sobering thought.
Yes, I am blessed beyond measure. But I am also very spoiled.
Lord God, I thank You for Your abundant blessings in my life. While I know that I am not only blessed, but also the realization has hit that I am also very spoiled. It is time for me to get back to the basics. If something is not needed or used or does not have a place in our home, it is time to let it go.I pray that You will help me look through these renewed eyes as I continue this Spring Cleaning.
I pray for this nation. We, as a nation, are blessed beyond measure as well! In this new realization I have become so very sad for America! Very few people realize how blessed we are, I believe. I pray that this nation will wake up before it is too late! I pray that this nation will humble herself before You and praise You for Your endless blessings in this nation.
I pray for our President. I pray for all elected leaders who are making our laws. So many laws of this land are being broken. Lord God, I pray for truth and justice to prevail!
As always, I pray for Congresswoman Giffords. She is truly blessed in her life being spared by the senseless attack on her! I pray that this nation would look upon the miracle of her life and realize the blessing and miracle You have shown us through her.
I pray for the nation and people of Israel. Lord God, every day more and more anger is being hurled upon Your chosen people! Keep them safe, I pray. Hide them in the shadow of Your wings (Psalm 91).
I pray all of these things in the Name of Jesus Christ- Giver of Life and all blessings- Amen!
Friday, March 25, 2011
YES, THIS COUNTS!
I received an email today that is going to be the topic of today's post. My brother sent me the email, and he had added a note that yes, this was his niece (his wife's sister's daughter). I called him and asked him if he could get their permission to post the picture on my blog entry for today, because I have never seen anything so beautiful in all of my life!
When I talked to my brother after he talked to his brother-in-law, he told me he was surprised to find out that it is not his niece! This is an email that was actually forwarded to his brother-in-law. They are all amazed at how much like this little girl my brother's niece actually looks.
So, I am going to post the picture, as the note at the bottom of the page says to forward to your friends. If the parents of this child sees the picture and would like it to be removed, please let me know. I would never want to offend them in any ways.
So, before I go any further, here is the email text, as well as the picture, of the original email I was sent:
When I talked to my brother after he talked to his brother-in-law, he told me he was surprised to find out that it is not his niece! This is an email that was actually forwarded to his brother-in-law. They are all amazed at how much like this little girl my brother's niece actually looks.
So, I am going to post the picture, as the note at the bottom of the page says to forward to your friends. If the parents of this child sees the picture and would like it to be removed, please let me know. I would never want to offend them in any ways.
So, before I go any further, here is the email text, as well as the picture, of the original email I was sent:
Matthew 18:20
For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
DOES THIS COUNT?
For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
DOES THIS COUNT?
Yes, this most definitely counts, sweetheart!
This little girl understands more than most adults do. While I believe that it is imperative and very beneficial to read, study, disect, meditate and analyze Scripture to grow in our faith, walk and understanding of God, I beleive that a lot of times our analyzing gets in the way of the true heart of the matter. As my husband has said before, too often, the most "intellectual" of minds have absolutely no faith in God because He cannot be explained. Faith is believing in the unseen.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
A WRETCH LIKE ME
This time of the year is extremely special to me. On February 25, 2004, a movie was released that reaches down into the very depths of my soul. While I know the story well, I've never seen it depicted in this exact way.
The movie I am referring to is, "The Passion Of The Christ".
Within the first month after the movie was released, my husband and I went to the theatre 7 times to see it. At the time, we were Youth Leaders at our church. Since the movie was rated "R" due to the extreme violence depicted, we were required to view the movie before taking students to see it. For the students to see the movie their parents had to sign a permission form, for the exact same reason.
I was raised in a Christian home. I often joke that I went to church before I entered the world, and started my entry into the world at church! My Mom actually went into labor during the Sunday night service. A funny side story here that my mom loves to tell. She went to the restroom, and her water broke. Obviously, she had to send someone in to get my Dad.
My grandparents, as well as a couple of my aunts and uncles went to the same church. My Dad sent one of the ushers in to let my grandparents know what was going on. It was at this very moment that the congregation was sitting, and the choir was getting ready to sing. My grandfather did not realize what was going on, so he was standing up, in the middle of the church, looking at my aunt, who was in the choir, shaking his head "yes" So this is how the congregation knew I was ready to make my entrance into the world!
Well, I've gotten a bit off track here. But, the point of telling this funny little tidbit of my life is to say that yes, I attended church regularly as a child. When the church doors were open, we were there. I knew the words of the old hymns by heart. In fact, I was even known to give a concert for my grandparents at the drop of a hat! There are even pictures of the performances, my "brush microphone" in hand.
Even if you are not a church-goer, it's quite likely you know the words to the ever-famous hymn, "Amazing Grace." In fact, there is now even a movie of how the hymn came to be. This was one of the songs that I loved to sing the most.
Strangely enough, though I have known the words of "Amazing Grace" by heart pretty much since I uttered my first words, It was not until I was 31-years-old that I truly grasped the true meaning of this beautiful hymn.
The movie I am referring to is, "The Passion Of The Christ".
Within the first month after the movie was released, my husband and I went to the theatre 7 times to see it. At the time, we were Youth Leaders at our church. Since the movie was rated "R" due to the extreme violence depicted, we were required to view the movie before taking students to see it. For the students to see the movie their parents had to sign a permission form, for the exact same reason.
I was raised in a Christian home. I often joke that I went to church before I entered the world, and started my entry into the world at church! My Mom actually went into labor during the Sunday night service. A funny side story here that my mom loves to tell. She went to the restroom, and her water broke. Obviously, she had to send someone in to get my Dad.
My grandparents, as well as a couple of my aunts and uncles went to the same church. My Dad sent one of the ushers in to let my grandparents know what was going on. It was at this very moment that the congregation was sitting, and the choir was getting ready to sing. My grandfather did not realize what was going on, so he was standing up, in the middle of the church, looking at my aunt, who was in the choir, shaking his head "yes" So this is how the congregation knew I was ready to make my entrance into the world!
Well, I've gotten a bit off track here. But, the point of telling this funny little tidbit of my life is to say that yes, I attended church regularly as a child. When the church doors were open, we were there. I knew the words of the old hymns by heart. In fact, I was even known to give a concert for my grandparents at the drop of a hat! There are even pictures of the performances, my "brush microphone" in hand.
Even if you are not a church-goer, it's quite likely you know the words to the ever-famous hymn, "Amazing Grace." In fact, there is now even a movie of how the hymn came to be. This was one of the songs that I loved to sing the most.
Strangely enough, though I have known the words of "Amazing Grace" by heart pretty much since I uttered my first words, It was not until I was 31-years-old that I truly grasped the true meaning of this beautiful hymn.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
LIFE IS A PUZZLE
After my first husband committed suicide, my life as I knew it literally ceased to exist. Everything that I knew, believed and lived shattered into a million pieces. It was at this point that God lovingly picked up one, single piece of my shattered, brokenness and placed it in the middle of His canvas, which is my life.
All of the shattered pieces of my former life are still there today. While it may not appear that way, the shattered, broken pieces have been lovingly healed and mended by the hands of The Master Who created me and loves me so dearly. Many, many pieces have been loving placed where they belong, and yet, many others still are in the process of mending and healing.
One thing that God showed me, after my husband died, was how yes, we are indeed created in the image of God. However, as humans, most everything we do is opposite of the way God does things. It is a strange concept, in one sense. Yet, it makes perfect sense as well.
An image is a reflection of an actual thing, not the thing itself. When you look in the mirror at yourself, it is the opposite of reality. Your right side appears to be the left side, and vice versa.
When you work a puzzle, what is the first thing that you do? You start with the outside pieces, and put the entire border together. At least, this is the way I do it, and this is the way I've seen most people work a puzzle.
God began to show me that my life is a puzzle in progress at the work of His loving hands.
All of the shattered pieces of my former life are still there today. While it may not appear that way, the shattered, broken pieces have been lovingly healed and mended by the hands of The Master Who created me and loves me so dearly. Many, many pieces have been loving placed where they belong, and yet, many others still are in the process of mending and healing.
One thing that God showed me, after my husband died, was how yes, we are indeed created in the image of God. However, as humans, most everything we do is opposite of the way God does things. It is a strange concept, in one sense. Yet, it makes perfect sense as well.
An image is a reflection of an actual thing, not the thing itself. When you look in the mirror at yourself, it is the opposite of reality. Your right side appears to be the left side, and vice versa.
When you work a puzzle, what is the first thing that you do? You start with the outside pieces, and put the entire border together. At least, this is the way I do it, and this is the way I've seen most people work a puzzle.
God began to show me that my life is a puzzle in progress at the work of His loving hands.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
YOUR WORD IS ALL YOU HAVE
There is nothing more in this world that I detest more than lying! I have seen the affects of lying in my life, personally. It literally almost destroyed me.
Unfortunately, by nature, I am a "sneaky, manipulative" person. It has taken me many years to be able to acknowledge this, but as Dr. Phil says, "You can't change what you don't acknowledge!"
While this is my nature, this is no longer the person I am. Many years ago, I was faced with the reality of what my lies were doing to myself. At this point I am not going to even talk about how it affected other people in my life- I think that is a given, and understood by most everyone who is reading this blog.
However, what most of us fail to realize is how our actions affect us. For every action there is a consequence, good or bad.
As a child, I was very "sneaky". Unfortunately, I was good enough at it that I got away with a lot of things that were dangerous. If I had not been so good at sneaking around, maybe I would have been caught at the harmless things as a child, and it would have taught me not to be so sneaky, and this may have prevented me from putting myself in so many dangerous situations. Many of these dangerous situations have harmed me, and some still have lasting affects on my life today.
Being sneaky goes hand-in-hand with lying. It is basically the opposite side of the same coin. While you may not be out-right lying about a situation, if you are not being completely truthful, or you are trying to hide things, you are being dishonest.
Unfortunately, by nature, I am a "sneaky, manipulative" person. It has taken me many years to be able to acknowledge this, but as Dr. Phil says, "You can't change what you don't acknowledge!"
While this is my nature, this is no longer the person I am. Many years ago, I was faced with the reality of what my lies were doing to myself. At this point I am not going to even talk about how it affected other people in my life- I think that is a given, and understood by most everyone who is reading this blog.
However, what most of us fail to realize is how our actions affect us. For every action there is a consequence, good or bad.
As a child, I was very "sneaky". Unfortunately, I was good enough at it that I got away with a lot of things that were dangerous. If I had not been so good at sneaking around, maybe I would have been caught at the harmless things as a child, and it would have taught me not to be so sneaky, and this may have prevented me from putting myself in so many dangerous situations. Many of these dangerous situations have harmed me, and some still have lasting affects on my life today.
Being sneaky goes hand-in-hand with lying. It is basically the opposite side of the same coin. While you may not be out-right lying about a situation, if you are not being completely truthful, or you are trying to hide things, you are being dishonest.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
YOU GOT TO KNOW WHEN...
As I've thought over my previous post, I am reminded of an old Kenny Rogers song, "The Gambler". I'm sure that if you've read my previous post you are wondering how in the world this song comes to mind. The post has nothing at all to do with gambling, playing cards, or anything that entails.
However, the course speaks volumes for me, in my life:
You've got to know when to hold 'em
Know when to fold 'em
Know when to walk away
Know when to run
You never count your money
When you're sittin' at the table
There'll be time enough for countin'
When the dealin's done
Now, one thing you will learn about me is that I march to the beat of a different drummer. I've always been this way! In fact, I grew up in the '80's and was always known for wearing a "different style" of clothes... and this is in the '80's, when "different" WAS the style!
Maybe the reason this chorus reverberates over and over in my mind as I look back over my life experiences is because so much of the time I did not know when to hold 'em, fold 'em, walk away, or run. So much of my life I have made the wrong decision, no matter what decision I made.
However, the course speaks volumes for me, in my life:
You've got to know when to hold 'em
Know when to fold 'em
Know when to walk away
Know when to run
You never count your money
When you're sittin' at the table
There'll be time enough for countin'
When the dealin's done
Now, one thing you will learn about me is that I march to the beat of a different drummer. I've always been this way! In fact, I grew up in the '80's and was always known for wearing a "different style" of clothes... and this is in the '80's, when "different" WAS the style!
Maybe the reason this chorus reverberates over and over in my mind as I look back over my life experiences is because so much of the time I did not know when to hold 'em, fold 'em, walk away, or run. So much of my life I have made the wrong decision, no matter what decision I made.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
I'VE COME TO A REALIZATION
I just got finished with a major rant on Twitter. My husband just showed me an article that has blown my mind! For your reference, here is the article that caused my rant:
U.S. Debt Jumped $72 Billion Same Day U.S. House Voted to Cut Spending $6 Billion
Now, why in the world would this send me into a tizzy, you are probably asking. It is quite obvious that our debt and continued spending is completely out of control. It's been one of the main topics of discussion for- oh, I don't even know how long!
So I will tell you- my rant was caused by the sudden realization that no one in Washington gets it! And I do mean NO ONE! I say this, because if anyone at all truly got the enormity of this crisis, this would be the ONLY thing that was being discussed!
U.S. Debt Jumped $72 Billion Same Day U.S. House Voted to Cut Spending $6 Billion
Now, why in the world would this send me into a tizzy, you are probably asking. It is quite obvious that our debt and continued spending is completely out of control. It's been one of the main topics of discussion for- oh, I don't even know how long!
So I will tell you- my rant was caused by the sudden realization that no one in Washington gets it! And I do mean NO ONE! I say this, because if anyone at all truly got the enormity of this crisis, this would be the ONLY thing that was being discussed!
Thursday, March 10, 2011
WHAT IS BEING ACCOMPLISHED?
I am a very active member of twitter. For me, it is my "outlet" to be informed on the goings-on of the world and connect with like minded people. There are many people that enjoy the heavy debate of those on the other side of the political aisle. I cannot say that. Yes, I most definitely like to hear other views, but unless they are debating the issues with common sense they have absolutely no chance of swaying my view on things. There are many things I am rock solid on in my beliefs and will not change. Other things I am not so rock solid on, and maybe my views can be changed if common sense is used in the debate. There are also things that I know absolutely nothing about, so learning different views helps me to come to my own decision on how I feel about it.
There have been many people to seek me out, arguing against this tweet or that tweet that I've sent out. There has only been one person out of any of those who I have actually become friends with. There have been a couple of people that I was able to basically agree to disagree with, and go our separate ways. Unfortunately, most of the time I just end up ignoring them, or if that doesn't work, and they persist, I block them. I just do not have the time or patience to deal with someone who refuses to accept that I have different views than they do. Hey, you have the right to your own opinions and feelings, as do I. I do not try to change your opinions and feelings, stop trying to change mine unless you want to have a sensible conversation built on common sense.
There have been many people to seek me out, arguing against this tweet or that tweet that I've sent out. There has only been one person out of any of those who I have actually become friends with. There have been a couple of people that I was able to basically agree to disagree with, and go our separate ways. Unfortunately, most of the time I just end up ignoring them, or if that doesn't work, and they persist, I block them. I just do not have the time or patience to deal with someone who refuses to accept that I have different views than they do. Hey, you have the right to your own opinions and feelings, as do I. I do not try to change your opinions and feelings, stop trying to change mine unless you want to have a sensible conversation built on common sense.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
LIES, LIES, LIES
I am sick of the lies! Everywhere I turn, all I hear are lies, lies, lies and MORE lies!
We've come to a point in our society where "truth" is subjective. Your truth may not be my truth, and neither of our truths may be the next person's truth.
Truth is facts, not opinion. That's the problem when we come to accept "truth" as subjective. If you do not have solid facts to stand on, it's not truth. Period. If it is not truth it is false- a lie.
We've come to a point in our society where "truth" is subjective. Your truth may not be my truth, and neither of our truths may be the next person's truth.
Truth is facts, not opinion. That's the problem when we come to accept "truth" as subjective. If you do not have solid facts to stand on, it's not truth. Period. If it is not truth it is false- a lie.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
STANDING FOR TRUTH
What is truth?
Our society is so skewed in its views, and so much of the time we change and adapt our ways and views to match those around us. We don't want to be the odd-ball in the crowd. In the process we ultimately put on various masks, oftentimes covering up one mask with another mask and then another and another. Before long, we have so many masks piled on that we do not even see who we truly are when we look in the mirror.
For many years of my life I lived a complete lie. In fact, I lied so much that it eventually came to the point that I could not tell the difference between the truth and a lie. There have been a couple of times when I will start telling my husband something that I've told many times over the years, and suddenly I will stop. I will look at him and say, "That is not true. I've told it for so long that it just became truth to me."
It is a very scary thing to not know what the truth is about something. It is even more scary to realize that it is your own life that you do not know what the truth is. I did not have an accident that took away my memory, I simply chose to deny the reality of my life. Denying the reality did not change reality. Reality is reality, whether I like it or not.
We must come to a point in our life- individually- where we look at ourselves in the mirror and take off all the masks we have put on. When we get to the end of our life, what is going to matter? What is going to be important?
When I got to that point in my life, the reality of what I saw was not pretty at all. It was in fact very scary for me to face. It was not an easy thing for me to do. It was even more difficult for me to face the people I know and love and tell them how much of my life had been a lie. But once I finally face it and spoke the truth I felt free for the first time in a very long time! I didn't have to keep up with the lies anymore! Living in truth is not always easy, but it is much more difficult to live a lie.
Today, the world has come to "see" truth as subjective. What may be true for me is not necessarily true for someone else. Does that make both of us correct, in our own little worlds? To some, they will answer yes. My truth is my truth, their truth is their truth. However, is this THE truth?
There are some things that are absolute. Just because I say that the color red is blue does not make it so. Is it my perception? Am I lying? Have I lost my mind?
In a world where your perception can be accepted as truth, or it is OK to lie, or the argument of insanity gives you a free pass, how do we determine what truth is?
I believe the slow erosion of our moral values is one of the main factors in truth becoming subjective. One of the headlines in the last week was that Fox had pulled a Super Bowl ad for a company that advertises dating services specifically for married people. It is now seen as no big deal to many people to have affairs when you are married. In fact, there are people that go into marriage mutually agreeing to have an open marriage. Does this make it OK, because both parties agree to it?
In 1973 the U.S. Supreme Court made it "legal" for a woman to have an abortion. Yet, if a pregnant woman is attacked, and she loses the baby, or she is killed and so is the baby, the one who committed the crime can be charged for murdering the baby. So- it is OK for woman to decide to end the life of the child- but someone attacks her and murders the child, and it is not OK?
Someone can plot and plan days, weeks, months or years ahead to kill someone yet claim not guilty by reason of insanity, and this is OK?
When you allow subjective ideas to stand as truth, it doesn't make it truth. There has to be a universal standard by which everything and everyone is measured. Just because a husband and wife "agree" between the two of them to have an open marriage does not make it right. It is still adultery.
Politically, when the Democrats are in office, the Republicans accuse them of lies about various things. When the Republicans are in office, the Democrats accuse the Republicans of lying about various things.
If something is not FACT, it is NOT truth. Period.
My question to you is what are YOU going to do? Are you going to allow yourself to continue down the deceptive road of lies that society feeds you? Are you willing to live out your life in subjectiveness? Or do you want to know FACTS about certain things?
If you decide that you want to live in subjectiveness, do not be surprised if one day you wake up and realize the happiness that you thought you were living is in fact nothing more than excrement piled high on top of nothingness. Just because we choose to believe something does not make it true. Dog poop covered with whip cream does not make for a delicious treat. It is still just a pile of dog poop with whip cream, no matter how you spin it.
The reason I started this blog was to pray for Congresswoman Giffords after she was shot. It did not surprise me yesterday when the man that committed these horrendous acts went to court and pled "Not Guilty" by reason of insanity. He is not insane! He pre-meditated this horrendous act! He has no remorse whatsoever for his actions. He is enjoying the limelight that is being given him.
Sadly, it will not surprise me if he lives out the rest of his life in a mental hospital rather than him receiving the death penalty. Even if he does receive the death penalty it will be 20 years or more before he is finally executed. The people who's lives ended that day were not afforded the same luxuries. And instead of justice being served he is in fact being rewarded by so people many talking about him and the taxpayers paying for his living expenses. We have truly become a sick and twisted society. The truth of the matter is he took lives. His life should be taken from him.
As always, I continue to pray for his heart to be softened. I pray that he will repent for his actions. Even if he does this, I believe the only justice would be a swift execution. However, I read an article stating that the case will more than likely take years. Yes... this is the reality we have become, America! Is this the reality you want? We have watered down and eroded truth to the point that truth does not stand any longer. Truth is shoved down into the dirt!
I also continue to pray for Congresswoman Giffords and her husband Mark Kelly. It is my prayer that her rehab is going well. I know it is not easy for them, but I pray they will get through this stronger than they were before. I pray that their faith in God Almighty will be stronger than before. I pray that their love and faith and commitment to each other will be even stronger than it was before. I pray that they will feel the love and prayers of the nation in this difficult time.
I pray for this nation. America, are you content to continue down the road we are on, or are you going to stand for truth once again? It will not be easy. It will be painful. But it will be rewarding! And it WILL be worth it!
Our society is so skewed in its views, and so much of the time we change and adapt our ways and views to match those around us. We don't want to be the odd-ball in the crowd. In the process we ultimately put on various masks, oftentimes covering up one mask with another mask and then another and another. Before long, we have so many masks piled on that we do not even see who we truly are when we look in the mirror.
For many years of my life I lived a complete lie. In fact, I lied so much that it eventually came to the point that I could not tell the difference between the truth and a lie. There have been a couple of times when I will start telling my husband something that I've told many times over the years, and suddenly I will stop. I will look at him and say, "That is not true. I've told it for so long that it just became truth to me."
It is a very scary thing to not know what the truth is about something. It is even more scary to realize that it is your own life that you do not know what the truth is. I did not have an accident that took away my memory, I simply chose to deny the reality of my life. Denying the reality did not change reality. Reality is reality, whether I like it or not.
We must come to a point in our life- individually- where we look at ourselves in the mirror and take off all the masks we have put on. When we get to the end of our life, what is going to matter? What is going to be important?
When I got to that point in my life, the reality of what I saw was not pretty at all. It was in fact very scary for me to face. It was not an easy thing for me to do. It was even more difficult for me to face the people I know and love and tell them how much of my life had been a lie. But once I finally face it and spoke the truth I felt free for the first time in a very long time! I didn't have to keep up with the lies anymore! Living in truth is not always easy, but it is much more difficult to live a lie.
Today, the world has come to "see" truth as subjective. What may be true for me is not necessarily true for someone else. Does that make both of us correct, in our own little worlds? To some, they will answer yes. My truth is my truth, their truth is their truth. However, is this THE truth?
There are some things that are absolute. Just because I say that the color red is blue does not make it so. Is it my perception? Am I lying? Have I lost my mind?
In a world where your perception can be accepted as truth, or it is OK to lie, or the argument of insanity gives you a free pass, how do we determine what truth is?
I believe the slow erosion of our moral values is one of the main factors in truth becoming subjective. One of the headlines in the last week was that Fox had pulled a Super Bowl ad for a company that advertises dating services specifically for married people. It is now seen as no big deal to many people to have affairs when you are married. In fact, there are people that go into marriage mutually agreeing to have an open marriage. Does this make it OK, because both parties agree to it?
In 1973 the U.S. Supreme Court made it "legal" for a woman to have an abortion. Yet, if a pregnant woman is attacked, and she loses the baby, or she is killed and so is the baby, the one who committed the crime can be charged for murdering the baby. So- it is OK for woman to decide to end the life of the child- but someone attacks her and murders the child, and it is not OK?
Someone can plot and plan days, weeks, months or years ahead to kill someone yet claim not guilty by reason of insanity, and this is OK?
When you allow subjective ideas to stand as truth, it doesn't make it truth. There has to be a universal standard by which everything and everyone is measured. Just because a husband and wife "agree" between the two of them to have an open marriage does not make it right. It is still adultery.
Politically, when the Democrats are in office, the Republicans accuse them of lies about various things. When the Republicans are in office, the Democrats accuse the Republicans of lying about various things.
If something is not FACT, it is NOT truth. Period.
My question to you is what are YOU going to do? Are you going to allow yourself to continue down the deceptive road of lies that society feeds you? Are you willing to live out your life in subjectiveness? Or do you want to know FACTS about certain things?
If you decide that you want to live in subjectiveness, do not be surprised if one day you wake up and realize the happiness that you thought you were living is in fact nothing more than excrement piled high on top of nothingness. Just because we choose to believe something does not make it true. Dog poop covered with whip cream does not make for a delicious treat. It is still just a pile of dog poop with whip cream, no matter how you spin it.
The reason I started this blog was to pray for Congresswoman Giffords after she was shot. It did not surprise me yesterday when the man that committed these horrendous acts went to court and pled "Not Guilty" by reason of insanity. He is not insane! He pre-meditated this horrendous act! He has no remorse whatsoever for his actions. He is enjoying the limelight that is being given him.
Sadly, it will not surprise me if he lives out the rest of his life in a mental hospital rather than him receiving the death penalty. Even if he does receive the death penalty it will be 20 years or more before he is finally executed. The people who's lives ended that day were not afforded the same luxuries. And instead of justice being served he is in fact being rewarded by so people many talking about him and the taxpayers paying for his living expenses. We have truly become a sick and twisted society. The truth of the matter is he took lives. His life should be taken from him.
As always, I continue to pray for his heart to be softened. I pray that he will repent for his actions. Even if he does this, I believe the only justice would be a swift execution. However, I read an article stating that the case will more than likely take years. Yes... this is the reality we have become, America! Is this the reality you want? We have watered down and eroded truth to the point that truth does not stand any longer. Truth is shoved down into the dirt!
I also continue to pray for Congresswoman Giffords and her husband Mark Kelly. It is my prayer that her rehab is going well. I know it is not easy for them, but I pray they will get through this stronger than they were before. I pray that their faith in God Almighty will be stronger than before. I pray that their love and faith and commitment to each other will be even stronger than it was before. I pray that they will feel the love and prayers of the nation in this difficult time.
I pray for this nation. America, are you content to continue down the road we are on, or are you going to stand for truth once again? It will not be easy. It will be painful. But it will be rewarding! And it WILL be worth it!
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