What Boldness Brings

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"My boldness is directly linked to someone else's blessing."

I not sure where I first heard this quote... but it is one that has stuck with me... for sure!  I take it to mean... that certainly... I have something to offer.  Someone NEEDS what I have to offer.   I need not shrink back from being a blessing.  When I hold back out of fear or feeling of inadequacy...I'm doing others, and myself, a disservice.   

Do you ever think like this - for yourself??  

****

I took a stroll back through the "five" posts that I mustered to put together for this year of 2020.  Sad!!  But - yes...I shared as the Lord led me and so I want to celebrate those.  

(Okay, if I count correctly - I actually had twelve posts for the year.  One a month, or so.  Not terrible, I suppose...)

In one of those earlier posts - I talked about the word I chose, for the year of 2020 which was the word CULTIVATE.  Little did I know how much this would be needed in my life and I'm so glad.  What a great year for it, too.  So, while 2020 was quite the year and difficult for all in many ways.  I say, for me, it was one of my favorite years.   I'm choosing to collect the blessings that I've had and felt...and this word - has definitely brought with it, fruition which I'm truly grateful about.  But... it's not over.  There is still more work to be done.  And, so with that comes blessing in boldness.

I'm already sensing a new word - for 2021.   Stay tuned!!!

****

As the New Year approaches... what is something that you look forward to?  What is that one thing that you will live out the God-ordained days of this year for, with a dedicated heart?   When looking back, what will be the "no regret" part that you will hold dear?  

Here is where and how I will answer these questions.  As the New Year quickly approaches... I look forward to a greater sense of God's peace and presence.  With a dedicated heart to living out my God-ordained days...for the coming year... I will give HIM my all, in all.  I want to be able to look back with a no-regret mindset... because I've been intentional with my time, talents and relationships.

My boldness, today, is directly linked to someone else's blessing tomorrow.

As we head to a close on this year of 2020...

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.  ~Numbers 6:24-26, ESV

Strong (and Courageous) - word for 2019

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Here we are, a few days in 2019 and I have yet to share my word of the year with you!!

Funny.  I haven't always taken hold of a word so surely as I have been the past year and now for this one.  If you have been reading here - you may remember my word last year was GROW or Growth!

This year... along the same lines is that I want to keep growing... but the word that comes to mind is 

STRONG!

However.  In order to grow STRONG - one needs courage.

COURAGE is another word that keeps coming to my heart and mind.

I'll take them both!!  

Be Strong and Courageous.

I cling to the verses from Joshua chapter 1 starting loosely in verse 3 and continuing through verse 9.

Not wanting to take Scripture out of context, in the least.  I do, however, see these verses as a message of encouragement to myself as a leader of team.  A business builder.  A woman of influence.  As a wife.  A mother. A friend.

(I encourage you to open your Bible and read these verses for yourself. Perhaps you will reap the encouragement for you - as well.)

I feel such hope.  Such encouragement.  Such confidence - from our Lord... that HE will be with just as he has promised.    They say that things that cause fear to rise up in you are really what is your calling.

I believe that.
There are things that I get white-knuckled about, have fear for and the knees begin a-knocking.  While I want to be and do - all these things... there is something that still holds me back.

I want to have faith for this.

A faith that is unwavering.   My heart cries...

Lord!  Let me faith be marked by these three things.

1. A quiet spirit (no questions asked!)

2. A gentle spirit (no details needed)

3. A sweet submissiveness (no struggling against the unknowns)

** found these "marks" in a book somewhere a long time ago and have had them written in the sideline margins of my Bible ever since.  So, I can't give credit, here.  My apologies.

I believe, Lord.  Forgive my unbelief.  Help me... Slow down and take the time to grow - STRONG!!

Wrangling the courage to go through it and emerge.  Trusting the process.

***

Look out 2019!!

On Bended Knee

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As, I was flitting around the kitchen this morning - tending to everything - trying to get the kiddos off to school, I heard this beautiful reflection on the radio.  Let me share it with you.  First, it comes from a Lutheran Church, here in our local town.   And, if you know me and my fascination with birds... I think you'll like this, too.  In fact.  My children are also, now, always on the lookout and watch for murmurations and/or, in particular, flockings of birds huddled together on wires...  it's rather intriguing.  And, now this reading echoes why I feel the way I do.

**Wednesday, December 19, 2018
Have you ever watched a bird sit on a power-line or a branch in the middle of a wind
storm? Have you wondered how that little creature can stay balanced in the face of such
opposition?
Rollin S. Burhans writes- Birds go to sleep on their perches, but they never fall off. This
is because of the tendons in the bird's legs. They are so constructed that when the leg is bent at the knee, the claws contract and grip like a steel trap. The claws refuse to let go until the knees are unbent again. The bended knee gives the bird the ability to hold on to his perch so tightly.
Isn't this also the secret of the holding power of a Christian? The biblical prophet Daniel
sure found this to be true. Surrounded by a godless environment, tempted constantly to
compromise with evil, was forcefully urged to weaken his grip on God; but he refused to let go. Instead, he held firm when others faltered because he was a man of prayer. He knew God’s power was available through his bended knees.
How do you hold onto those things which are most precious to you: honesty, purity,
honor, character? Those sleeping birds know the secret. It is a bended knee! As our knees
are bent in prayer, God gives us the power to get a firmer grip on those values which make
life worth living. As we face the challenges of a new year, remember to hold firmly to God
in prayer. You can rest assured he will hold tightly to you.
Philip. 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with
thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which
surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
This is the true source of peace.

This is a super fun, photo.  I don't know if they thought the clothespins were birds already on the line or what... but, I could not believe my eyes.  I had to find my camera... and this was (unfortunately) the best photo, I could get of them.

***
But, did you catch them message in that reading...?  Its while on bended knee... that we can hold fast.  Hold fast to those things that are most precious.  Most rewarding.  That have value.  And, God will hold us fast, as well.

I'm just so encouraged, this morning!!!

fmf :: Still

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"Where meek souls will receive him still - the dear Christ enters in."

"How silently, how silently..."

These words calm me... as I sing.  Yet, outside of it all the noise and the hustle and bustle are strong.  Loud.  And, overtaking.  My heart pounds.

However, the cry and wanting prayer of my heart is louder in that I would find, in the silence, a desire and a will to prepare HIM room.

Emptying me of me.   My agenda.  My plan.  My aspirations.

That humility would wash over me, Lord I pray!

Help me receive...  

"the wondrous gift is given".

 Come, Christ-child!  Enter in.  There is STILL room!

***

Joining up with this community from Five Minute Friday.  Our thoughts in five minutes.  Today's prompt was: Still

This was only a dream...

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I don't know that I have ever done this before in all my time of blogging.   But... I've decided to give it a whirl and that is to share a dream that I had the other night.  I'm not even going to say the usual; "Thank GOD, it was just a dream", because it really did unnerve me and made me wonder what you might think or do if this ever became a reality for you..?

Okay.  here goes.

For whatever reason - we were in a totally different house.  And, my family was all asleep - upstairs.

It was pretty late.  I think I was tidying up the kitchen.  I don't know if our porch light was on or not. But I sensed someone outside, at the front door.

It was a dog.   Never saw it before.  I shooed it off and turned out the light to the kitchen but then I noticed a truck just circling the driveway.   I turned the light back on and watched... it would stop.   Then I would turn it back off.  It would go... around the circle drive again.  (We don't have a circle drive... this was a dream... remember?)

The whole time, I'm thinking I should go wake my hubby up...?

But...What if this stranger really needed help?

You know. 

What if this was an angel... a true visit from "Jesus" himself?  I would feel horrible if it was and I haven't "helped" a stranger who needed something.  Then the other thoughts would come...
No - this is dangerous.  Don't "flirt" with the light - on and off.   This is definitely weird.  

*

*
*
*

Like I said... a dream.  I woke up - I really have no idea how the story ended.   Except that I woke up feeling bothered.

HOW DO YOU KNOW?

Do you ever feel compelled to go out of your way to "help someone in need" and especially in those strange situations... even if and where it really could be something gone wrong?  I know God is not the author of confusion...so maybe this dream was a figurative test to see my reaction?  Testing my faith and Obedience...?  I really don't know.  What would I do...if this happened in reality?

I remember a time - couple of years ago - our family was on vacation.  My kids still talk about this... where we were approached with a "sob story" - a plea for help from an individual.   It was hard to know.  Hard to discern, if they were telling the truth.  But, acting out of obedience my husband felt compelled to oblige the request.   It truly left an impression on our kiddos as they witnessed the whole thing AND it allowed for deeper conversation... about this very thing.

I remember another time, however - where I truly "walked on by"... and {their} eyes still vividly come to mind!!  Here is where I have to trust that the Lord knows my heart...
I still pray for that couple.

***
Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. ~ Hebrews 13:2, ESV

Be Different

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It's time for another analogy.  :)  I like these. I need the reminder just as much as anyone else.

Earlier this morning - I was hanging laundry on the line, and noticed the majority of my flower bed had succumbed to some hard times.  The recent frost got to them.  But, not the snapdragons.
They're still beautiful!!  Amazingly.

I wondered about it, for a moment.  And, quickly thought...
You know? I am like this flower...SURROUNDED by the dead and dying.
Hard times have hit and devastation is everywhere... Yet, I CAN still make a difference.  I WILL continue to bloom...offering HOPE; bringing life and light, when and wherever I can.  I WILL bloom where I'm planted and continue to make a difference (of influence) with whomever I come in contact with.  Whatever my sphere of influence is.  On the job, at home, out and about...

This is my prayer.  At least.

Look at that!  All around - is "darkness" and decay.  Yet, through the dismal, and in what looks like a war-zone, are those that stand firm.  Strong.  Alive.  Radient.  Ready to keep going..

So, WHO is my greatest example of this?  Jesus.  Like the lyric of the old hymn says; When all around my soul gives way... He then, is ALL my hope and stay.

What a blessed thought.  Amen?

Makes me wonder.  Do I have what it takes to stand out and be different?  Let alone, make a difference for the cause of Christ?  I SURE hope so.

The War of Words

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You've all heard this before - that our words are like the dandelions puff blown, scattered to the wind and that they're not returnable.  And, oh how we wish they were.  Especially, if we've messed up!!

It's true.
You can't reclaim your words.  Once they're out there, they're out there!!  It feels like a war sometimes of what words can do.  I can remember some specific times in my growing up years, even into my late teens or now as an older woman, even... times when words really embedded themselves deep into my soul.  They became a part of me - good and bad.

It might not have even been the words but rather the way they were said (just the tone of voice) that made that impact.  Again, that is good or bad...

See?  The war of words... it's a real thing.

This has been heavy on my heart and mind here of late.  I keep thinking of my words and how they impact.  In fact, these song lyrics (by Hawk Nelson) keep rolling around in my heart and head.. I've been humming...

Words can build you up
Words can break you down
Start a fire in your heart or
Put it out

Let my words be life
Let my words be truth
I don't wanna say a word
Unless it points the world back to You

If this can just encourage you today - let it be!!
I simply ask for prayers - whispered heavenward... to be that infectious soul of LIFE-GIVING words of blessing and hope and encouragement... whenever and wherever I can.
As a wife.  As a mother. As a sister, daughter and friend.

I found this as something to ponder:
Boys flying kites haul in their white-winged birds; 
You can't do that when you are flying words.
"Careful with fire" is good advice, we know;
"Careful with words" is ten times doubly so.
Thoughts unexpressed may sometimes fall back dead;
But God himself can't kill them when they're said.  
~ Will Carleton
***

Here is Hawk Nelson's song in full... for you to enjoy, as well!



May you have a blessed week!!!  Speak Life...

When a break was meant to be...

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Swoosh.

Crash.  Bang.

I wonder what I just heard fall and then I hear my hubby calling from the other room... "sorry babe, I just knocked your favorite magnet off the fridge and it broke." 

It was a gift from my Grammy.  I've had it forever.  And it wasn't until this moment that the truth of this magnet's message broke in and settled me.

I thought about the irony of the moment.  The words on the magnet couldn't be more true, for me.  And, in particular, for this morning, the day was unraveling pretty quickly.  I wasn't upset that my hubby broke my magnet - rather it just seemed to paint a picture in my mind of the imperfection that each day holds.  

There are bound to be lots of broken pieces in one single day.  When I read through that verse quickly, my eyes so often skim over the word seldom. I guess it is my tendency to believe that prayer, or even our relationship with God is meant to be "untouchable"...perfect!... and when it isn't, then I can simply be "a mess". 

Unraveling is inevitable.  When we pray, though, God listens and hems us into the gracious hand of care, comfort and He sustains us.  No matter the day.

God doesn't promise...perfect.  In fact, He promises He will hold the day in all its imperfections.  He holds us in our brokenness.  In fact, the more broken we are, the more beautiful we are and all the more perfect.  And, that is perfect enough.  He would rather us be broken and in His Hands... rather than sittin' all pretty, stuck up (on our fridge) and acting all high and mighty -in one perfect piece.

Sometimes - breaks are meant to be... amen?

I have yet to glue this magnet back together.  I need to buy me some glue.  But, when I do glue it... I'm going to glue it just "off" a bit.  As a reminder that I need Jesus every hour of every day.  I need to pray more often throughout my day.  And yes,while there may still be some unravelling going on, one thing is sure.  I'll be in HIS HAND all day long.  Right where I'm meant to be.

Because every day, I am.

***

Linking with Finding the Grace Within | tuesday @ ten :: break

Just as I am ~ for 2016

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Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.  Psalm 119:105

Resolutions!
And so 2016 begins with thoughts and wishes for all things new!  Heart-changes.  Last year was full enough of unsolicited change... some really hard changes... as a matter of fact.  Ones we hope to not ever have to face again.  Some changes were good, right and helpful.  Wonderful blessings!
 But we have no idea what this year will bring.

I resolve in my heart to walk through this coming year with grace, by my side!

I have been pondering several things... here of late. Things like: How might I tangibly walk this road with a God-fearing confidence?

One thing I know, I cannot do this by myself!  This can never be of a confidence in and of myself.

 I fully need the aide of the Holy Spirit and his comforting hand to guide and lead...

One of my greatest desires is to grow in the Word! Always has been.
Recently, I've been given a tangible and practicable way, or idea, in doing this.  So my plan is to handwrite scripture verses out on paper, on a daily, regular basis.

Now - the question is... which and whose plan will I want to use to follow? :)

There are several out there, such as...

Sweet to the Soul - Soul deep in God's Word!

Or, another found through Facebook (a closed facebook group where you'll need to sign up for) - via a friend of mine.
Write His Word

Or, another from Sweet Blessings.

I'm sure there are many others to choose from.  Check them out!

In the meantime.. my prayer for 2016 comes through the touching lyrics of this well-known and dearly loved hymn.  Just as I am!

I pray these words will minister to your heart as well, as they do mine.
To come... simply come... just as I am!

***

I am thankful for each one of you - my readers!  And without you - blogging wouldn't be as much fun, now would it?

**I'm linking today's post with Finding the Grace Within | Tuesday @ Ten.  The prompt this week was : I resolve to...

Looking forward to what the rest of this New Year will bring!! And, especially looking forward to spending the rest of this day - with dear fremily! :)

Have a Happy New Year - Day!

Father in Heaven, We Thank Thee

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We're spending a quiet day at home today - just our family, and we're thankful for that!  With hopes and plans for gathering as a larger family - on Sunday.

We have so much to be thankful for!  If I could only begin to count my blessings!!!

This simple prayer came to mind today, as I think of Thanksgiving Day - and all that means for me!

We Thank Thee

by Ralph Waldo Emerson

For flowers that bloom about our feet,

Father, we thank Thee.

For tender grass so fresh, so sweet,

Father, we thank Thee.

For the song of bird and hum of bee,

For all things fair we hear or see,

Father in heaven, we thank Thee.

For blue of stream and blue of sky,

Father, we thank Thee.

For pleasant shade of branches high,

Father, we thank Thee.

For fragrant air and cooling breeze,

For beauty of the blooming trees,

Father in heaven, we thank Thee.

For this new morning with its light,

Father, we thank Thee.

For rest and shelter of the night,

Father, we thank Thee

Pumpkin Dip

For health and food, for love and friends,

For everything Thy goodness sends,

Father in heaven, we thank Thee.

Amen!

***
Enjoy your family and friends today!  And remember, if you think thanks... you'll live thanks!
Count your Blessings!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

I just thought I would close this post by sharing with you this simple recipe for Pumpkin Dip.  Something for you and yours to enjoy over this holiday season...

:: Pumpkin Dip for Gingersnaps ::

4 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
3/4 cup pumpkin (canned)
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spices (combo of cinnamon, cloves and allspice)
1 Tablespoon maple syrup

gingersnaps

Using an electric mixer, whip together the cream cheese, powdered sugar and heavy whipping cream for about 2-3 minutes.
Add the pumpkin, spices and maple syrup - whip again for 2-3 minutes (the longer you whip, the more fluffy it becomes).
Add a drizzle of maple syrup and crushed gingersnaps crumbs on top for looks.  Dip with gingersnaps or apple slices.

* I've also found this dip to be a delicious topping for pancakes or waffles.. enjoy!!!

***

I'm sharing this post with Tuesday @ Ten

Weary, Worry and Worship!

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Come unto me all you who are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest! 
~ Matthew 11:28

I want to share with you a little story out of Our Daily Bread - a humorous story, as a matter of fact, that I thought would illustrate... this thought I have of worry, weary and worship!

A man worried constantly about everything.  Then one day his friends heard him whistling happily and looking noticeably relaxed.  "What happened?" they asked him in astonishment.He said, "I'm paying a man to do my worrying for me." "How much do you pay him?" they asked."Two thousand dollars a week," he replied."Wow! How can you afford that?""I can't," he said, "but that is his worry."

This past week has been nothing but long lists and "busy" demands.   Particularly the past couple of days.
Each night, I would fall into bed exhausted.  Weary.
Worried that it'll not get "finished".  Worried that I'll not have strength to muster through another moment.  Feelings of anxieties so large...

However, I am so comforted with the fact that it honestly is not for me to concern myself over, with these things.  I still do though - because I'm human.  But comforted for sure that Jesus says  - Come!
Come to me - child.  Weary, heavy-laden and worried soul!  You need rest!  Only give it over to me and I will do this for you.  And, He asks.  Can I carry you?

Yes Lord!!  I surrender.

I am so grateful that the LORD never grows weary.  He never is tired.  Always faithful to meet our every need.  I can depend on this - truth!  I can rest in this.
And when this happens...
I can worship my Maker.... with spirit, soul and body!
I will worship Him - and praise Him through this storm.

***
Linking with Kate @ Heading Home for Five Minute Friday!

{day 31} Whispers of the Heart! :: almost always includes patience

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If I don't hurry up the day will almost be over.  lol!

Tis true.

This post has been on my mind all day - and I haven't had a chance to sit to do anything with it all day, until now.

Between laundry, babysitting at last minute, for friends all day and baking cookies...

and that's the way it goes sometimes.

Here we are on the last day of posting for the 31 days... and can I say I'm almost glad to see it go?  I really did enjoy this one. I might even miss it -  a bit.  I mentioned it the other day - how it seemed pretty doable, like I wasn't that stressed over it, at all... and I think I managed my time and day(s) pretty well.

When I think of this word-prompt almost... well... I was having a hard time with it at first.

Almost is an indication of something never quite done.

Never quite finished.

Close.

But close only counts in horseshoes and hand-grenades.  So my hubby likes to say.

And with the word almost comes a follow-up thought of having to have patience.

When someone asks you to hold on a minute because they're almost through with what they're doing...why that can be challenging.  Can't it?

We know the holidays are almost here - but we have to wait a few more weeks.

Et cetera.

And you can think of a host of other scenarios where this is true. Almost - always comes with having to wait.  Someone will always be at an "almost finished" moment in time and there will be the call of your response within that.

A call for a patient heart.  Some of us have learned this sooner and better than others, I'm afraid.

I really don't know how to wrap this post up other than to say - it has made me think of this topic/idea a little bit deeper. A bit more intentionally.

How patient am I, really?

 I know how when I give out the "I'm almost ready, etc." - it makes others have to choose their response.  Either patience or impatience.

It's inevitable.  One way or the other...
The other challenge - for me - is a reflection of patience in my response when someone asks me if I'm all done (with something) - meaning, they ask "are you finished yet, etc." The pressure of being almost done but not fully can be overwhelming.  Sadly more colors of mine have been shown than I care to say.

What a challenging word to end this 31 day series on.  Through these last 31 days I hope you have been blessed!  I'm thankful to each one for their kindness in reading and in sharing their thoughts.  I have enjoyed each and every one.

I thank God for you always and in every prayer of mine...

God, thank you for these friends - via blogging and in -real life - who are such a blessing to me. I learn so much from them.  I also know You, God, are so patient with me.  And, so very gracious - at every turn.  Thank YOU, Heavenly Father, for never giving up on me.  Never once - not even close.
Your patience is never-ending and perfect because that is what and who you are!!  For sure.  ALL of the time.  Help me to grow in this area and not just sorta-kinda... but truly.

How about you?  What are your thoughts on this topic?  Please share... because I really feel like this is such a dud of a post. lol!  Help me to finalize this post.

Are you a patient person - or only an almost...? 

Sigh.. talk about vulnerability....
and yet, to think I almost didn't finish this series - at all (seriously!) - because I felt like I wouldn't have the patience for it.  And - I'm not just saying this to use up the prompt words... I really mean that.
God is good!  And even I - like I've alluded to already - have been blessed for doing this series - Whispers from the Heart!!

Thank you for reading!

****

Thank you, for joining with me in my 31 days of Five Minute Friday free writes.  I will be updating this home page, daily, so that you will not miss an entry.

**Linking with Finding the Grace within - Tuesday @ Ten, linkup.  Her word-prompt was patience.  Perfect to pair with the word almost,  At least, I thought so. :)

{day 30} Whispers of the Heart! :: five minute friday | bacon

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I'll admit my first reaction to this word-prompt for today was - WHAT?!??!?!  Bacon?
But.. my second thought immediately went to to the word - provision.  And, that is what I'd like to focus on today.
***

The sounds and smells of breakfast - cooking first thing in the morning - is a call!  It draws folks from all corners of the room.  Why, who can deny the taste of crispy, salty and flavor-full bites of bacon?  Some can. But, not all... and certainly, not me!
 I enjoy it.
I'll even say... "with a side of bacon, please and could you make that extra crispy - if you don't mind"?

Specific in my requests, aren't I?

I got to thinking about our finances and my hard-working husband with his daily diligence in and of "bringing home the bacon".  A right and privilege that he doesn't take lightly.  But, the why and because he can do this... is only because of God our Heavenly Father  - who provides all things.
While we are blessed that my husband has a steady job... the "bacon" amount... it's (usually) always the same -  yet still some months the budget will say otherwise.  One month could be on the slim side and not much can be rendered... another month could show it to be a "fatter" - full of opportunity - where we can do more things with it.
No matter the case... it - again - is ALL because of God's provision to our family and how we plan to manage or steward the gifts he gives.

His provision is always enough.  All of it - is grace!

I know this isn't the same - across the board - for everyone.  And, honestly, we've been through some VERY lean seasons, financially, ourselves.  Yet - in those times, were very convicted to still give back to God - of our firstfruits (tithe) and through that we have seen the bounty of God's provision in ways we could have never imagined.  Those were trying times and a test of true obedience - on our part.

Humbling times, too!

We could have gotten very specific in our requests to God - almost in demand -like fashion - to change those lean months and years, but, honestly, I believe he provided more than we'll ever know.  In ways we still can't even imagine how.
Again, his provision is always enough.  All of it - is grace!!

Lord, obtaining and managing and accounting for and of finances is hard.  Some more so than for others.  Yet, your ways of meeting needs astounds me.  You provide in ways unimaginable sometimes.  You supply income and give us insight on how to steward that - responsibly.  And, it's challenging.  Help us to hold onto this - loosely - yet, sensibly and securely.  Not allowing the "amounts" to dictate our praise.  We humbly want to obey and share and appreciate the value of what your provision means in our lives...

Finances are such a personal thing. I know. 

How about you?  Are there times of plenty and times of want - in your life?  Don't answer that.  My prayer for you is that you would see it all - as a means of grace and that you would know in your heart of hearts how the "bacon" suits your taste. :)

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Thank you, for joining with me in my 31 days of Five Minute Friday free writes.  I will be updating this home page, daily, so that you will not miss an entry.

Linking with Kate Motaung for Five Minute Friday.

{day 29} Whispers of the Heart! :: sea

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My daughter Aubrey - is quite the artist.  There is hardly a morning where, when she first wakes up that she doesn't find a pen and paper and sit down to draw and write.  I love this about her.  It's kind of her way to wake up.  These drawings on this bag, obviously, were part of a gift that she was planning to give to a little boy from her class in school - as part of his birthday gift.

Today's word-prompt is sea:  A rather tricky post to write about.

Yesterday - the prompt was hope! and I mentioned that I had a story to share with you that I had found... and while it has more to do with the topic of hope than of the word sea... I trust you'll be blessed by the message.  Yes!

 Consider this to be your message-in-a-bottle that has crossed over and through the sea to come to you.  :)

Hope does this, doesn't it?  It forges its way, crossing barriers, and moving mountains to make reality happen.

Written by Randy Kilgore, taken from Our Daily Bread
In January 1915, the ship Endurance (how ironic; the name) was trapped and crushed in the ice off the coast of Antarctica,  The group of polar explorers, led by Ernest Shackleton, survived and managed to reach Elephant Island in three small lifeboats.  Trapped on this uninhabited island, far from normal shipping lanes, they had one hope.
On April 24, 1916, 22 men watched as Shackleton and five comrades set out in a tiny lifeboat for South Georgia, an island 800 miles away.  The odds seemed impossible, and if they failed, they would all certainly die.
What joy, then, when more than four months later a boat appeared on the horizon with Shackleton on it's bow shouting, "Are you all well?" And the call came back, "All safe!  All well!"
What held those men together and alive over those months?  Faith and hope placed in one man.  They believed that Shackleton would find a way to save them.
Randy continues to write...
This human example of faith and hope echoes the faith of the heroes listed in Hebrews 11.  Their faith in the "substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" kept them going through great difficulties and trials.
As we look out upon the horizon, (the sea) of our problems, may we not despair.  May we have hope through the certainty of our faith in the One Man - Jesus, our God and Savior.

Gracious Heavenly Father... thank you for the confidence we can have you.  Whether its a sea of doubt and a storm that rages hard and high... our trust can be in YOU!  You are our life-line.  Our rescue and our salvation...
Help us hold onto you!  One thing is true.  YOU never let go.  Whether it is the calm  or the storm - this is true.  You never let go.

How about you?  Do you find yourself in a sea of doubt, of concern and the waves loom high and hard above?  How can I pray for you?
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Thank you, for joining with me in my 31 days of Five Minute Friday free writes.  I will be updating this home page, daily, so that you will not miss an entry.

{day 28} Whispers of the Heart! :: hope

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I cannot believe we're just a few days away from the end of October, and obviously, this 31 day challenge.  I sincerely hope you have been enjoying it as much as I have.  I'll be honest though - somedays it really felt despairing with only one or two sharing their thoughts in return - their responses, via comments, etc. - but I have to trust that it (this series) blessed in ways more than I know.  I really, really appreciate any and all support I have felt along the way. You have no idea how encouraging that is. Just one simple comment... means so much!  So, thank you!!!!!
 This is a big undertaking and requires some time management to pull it off.  However, I feel like I handled it pretty well... and that is comforting to me, as well as important.  Just a couple more days... and it's done!

I recently did a five minute friday post on the word HOPE  and I'm so tempted to do a repost and call it that.- but, so here we go again.  Same word.  Different day!  I'm just wondering how I might possibly pull out the word hope in an all new thought... (smile!)
***
Going through some papers on one of my bookshelves, I came across a piece of artwork, done along time ago by a dear friend of mine.  This is only a photocopy of the original - which she said, I may have, and thankfully too, because I love it so much!!  This collage was the result of her sitting down, one day, and doodling it all out with just a blue-inked pen...
I love it!  This gal is so talented and so creative... so patient.

I don't know if you can read all of the little sayings she sprinkled throughout - but my favorite one is this one, written in ink in the top left hand corner:
His hope is the anchor of your soul
To which I say, Yes!  and AMEN!

Tomorrow, we may touch on this topic again - as tomorrow's prompt word is: SEA (tricky, eh?)... but I found a story that I want to share with you and it also has much to do with Hope!
 Let me round out this post, by saying this.

Whenever we begin...
to be afraid,
to be unsure,
to doubt
We give ourselves permission to foster anxiety and angst of heart.
Whenever we begin...
to hope,
to trust,
to rest,
to be at peace
We give permission to the One who knows and controls all things.
The Bible says -  He keeps us!

I know Jesus is the anchor of my soul.  He is my hope!

Here is another way - that this message can be shared and that is through this worship song.  A song we sing quite often at church.  And it blesses me every single time I hear it and sing it.  I hope you enjoy it, as well, and will prayerfully sing along...

**I will consider this to be the prayer... for today's post.  Because, it certainly is the prayer of my heart, today!

How about you?  Where does your hope lie? And, in who?  Are ever tempted to lose hope just because it (whatever that is) seems "hopeless"?  I can relate to this.  I'm often tempted to give in and give up...

But, hope holds on.  It perseveres.  It endures.  To the very end!

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Thank you, for joining with me in my 31 days of Five Minute Friday free writes.  I will be updating this home page, daily, so that you will not miss an entry.

{day 27} Whispers of the Heart! :: perhaps

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Perhaps.... is a word that packs in all kinds of possibility.
Do you ever wonder if this could be the day?

Have you ever stepped outdoors and looked to the sky and the clouds
 simply take your breath away?
I have.  And, I whisper to myself - perhaps today's the day.
 Oh come, Lord Jesus, come!!

I try to talk about this to my children.  And... they're only way of comprehending - at this point - by what it means to be ready for when Jesus comes is how they have to be ready for the bus, each school day morning.
They know the bus is coming. Never earlier than 8am... but there is a window of time in which it could come and she may run a little late, but, it always comes.  They know we should be standing outside - by a certain time - so as to not miss that window.

However.   My children are still learning the concept of time and so to look at the clock and figure this out for themselves is challenging.  So, I make sure they're ready.  I tell them to speed it up or we'll miss it, etc.  Lately, I've been challenging them to think through this more for themselves.  I'll say... if Mommy wasn't here to tell you what to do next in getting ready for school - would you be able to be on time and waiting, ready for when the bus arrives...?
And, they don't know.  They still appreciate my reminders and my encouragement.

It's the same way with Jesus' return.
We know he's coming.  We're not sure of his exact return...time wise.
But there are surely lots and lots of signs that point to this.  We only need to look around...
Just like for the bus... we need to be ready.
Standing in anticipation.  At the same time... we have work to do.  Laboring and redeeming the time - not being idle but sharing the good news of Jesus to many who don't know.

We need to remind one another, don't we? The Bible says... encourage one another - as you see the Day approaching. (Hebrew 10:25)
We do this... remind one another to prepare, be ready ...so that no one will miss his return!

Oh Lord Jesus...we long for the day when you will return.  A line of song comes to mind every time I look to the skies ... it goes a bit like this, "this could be the cloud he's coming back on ..."!
I want to be ready.  I want to encourage others to keep their eyes to the skies.  Waiting and anticipating your arrival.  No man knows the day or the hour.  Help us, help me, to stand at attention.  I don't want to be caught doing life with little to no thought of your return.
This sobers me.  It's challenging to think that so, so many people go about their days, their lives with little to no concern whatsoever about the condition of their soul.

Perhaps today, is the day!  I want to be ready when Jesus comes.  How about you?

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 Thank you, for joining with me in my 31 days of Five Minute Friday free writes.  I will be updating this home page, daily, so that you will not miss an entry.

{day 26} Whispers from the Heart! :: honor

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Today's prompt originally was to be the word - whisper - and you might remember, that I opted to switch it around, from last week, to use this word prompt, instead.  Honor.  Just a head's up.

***
I felt this word suited much better for today.  Being's that the prompt is "honor"... 

What a day to honor the love of my life.

Happy Birthday Scott!

This man.

He's my favorite hello and my hardest goodbye.

I read that somewhere and thought- how true!!

He's hardworking.
Committed.
He's generous.
He's a family man.
He cares deeply.

A passionate soul.
Passionate as a Christ-follower
and growing.
Passionate as a husband,
as a father,
as a friend.
A leader as well as a servant.

He's a thankful man.
An example of what an overcomer looks like.

He's not perfect, nor never will be.
He has regrets - and who doesn't?

Easy to laugh.
(I love his laugh, and his contagious smile)
Yet, this man can be very serious.

Sometimes a mystery.
Oh, but a handsome one - at that.

I'm proud of my man.
And, I'm blessed to be the one walking by his side.


I love you, honey.
Happy Birthday!

love, me


Gracious Heavenly Father...
Thank you for your sovereignty in bringing us two together... in such ways unanticipated.
Thank you for all these aspects of Scott that make him to be such a wonderful gift to me and to our family.  I hope and pray that he feels honored and blessed especially today, here, on his birthday.
In your kindness, Lord....
Help us to continue to grow together to lead, guide and shepherd our family.  And the same is true for our marriage... that it would grow stronger and stronger on a daily basis.
Life is too short to take anyone for granted.  Help us to put those moments aside and seek out and show appreciation to and to be thankful for one another, for all that we mean to each other.
Amen

How about you?  Who might you be able to honor, today?

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Thank you, for joining with me in my 31 days of Five Minute Friday free writes.  I will be updating this home page, daily, so that you will not miss an entry.