New Recipes

Check out the new recipes on my Simple Cookn' blog! Click onto link above!
Have a wonderful TUESDAY!!!!!!!!! Only 3 more days til my hubby returns home so I am overly excited for time to pass quickly!!!!

Our Words As Garden Tools - Part III

Rake - Don’t Rake Others “Over The Coals”

Proverbs 12:18 “There is that speaketh like the piercing of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health”

Proverbs 18:21a “Death and life are in the power of the tongue..”

Proverbs 21:19 “It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman.”

James 3:8-10 “But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceeded blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.”

How do you feel when you hear someone has raked you “over the coals” or someone in your family? It’s probably not going to be one of our best days if that happens, is it? We should NEVER allow our tongues to be used as a sword - slashing away at others, cutting and causing pain. If we are going to be wise in the use of our tongue, we should speak words of health and healing. Encouraging words; uplifting words; give Godly wisdom; praising others; telling others we love them and appreciate all they do. Isn’t it sad but the ones we hold most dear (our family) are the ones we find the easiest to ‘get at’? As a mother of 4, I want to ‘blame’ it on the fact I am a SAHM and hardly EVER get a much needed break for my frustration at times when I just feel overwhelmed but there is no excuse for the use of words that don’t encourage, uplift, show love or approval. No excuse! Look around you and instead of raking up coals on others…find words of praise today and share them with those you hold most dear as well as others!!!

Tommorrow we will look at: Hoe - Don’t Hoe Sows Of Deceit and Falsehood

Our Words As Garden Tools - Part II

Shovel - Don’t Shovel Out Dirt About Others (GOSSIP)

Proverbs 16:28 “A forward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.”

Proverbs 17:9 “He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeated a matter separateth very friends.”

Proverbs 10:18b “…and he that uttered a slander, is a fool.”

Proverbs 18:8 “The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.”

Proverbs 20:19 “He that goeth about as a talebearer revealed secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.”

Proverbs 26:20 “Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.”

Isn’t it so easy to repeat things others have told us? We act as if we are on a secret mission to expose a matter or person that should not be repeated. I always try to remember that I really don’t want people going around talking about me and spreading things that don’t have no business being spread. I am sure we’ve all played the game where you start out with a saying and whisper it in the next person ears til the last person here’s the ‘secret’ message. What always happens…even if everyone has perfect hearing? The ‘secret’ message is so distorted and twisted…and that’s the way gossip goes along. Everyone adds a little extra ‘juice’ to the ‘story’ to make it more enticing. Probably what you are hearing isn’t even the REAL story.

Tomorrow we will look at: Rake - Don't Rake Others "over the coals"

Our Words As Garden Tools - Part I

For those that have well-kept gardens (such as my parents) they are beautiful and very productive. For those that don’t have the best kept gardens (such as ours that has been neglected for 3 weeks due to being out of town - what a pitiful sight) -- well, they’re not too beautiful, nor as productive! Beauty in a garden doesn’t just happen. There’s the many hours of manual labor, gardening tools, water, sunshine, rain, weeding, tilling --there’s A LOT that goes into having a beautiful, well-kept garden.

One thing is for certain though, certain gardening tools are needed to keep it looking beautiful. Gardening tools can be used for good, or they can be misused. Let’s think about our words - like those tools - that can be used for good, or they can do great harm. We must learn to use our words wisely. Let’s learn some lessons from gardening tools.

1. Garden Shears - Don’t Use Cutting, Harsh Words

Ps. 19:14 “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.”

Proverbs 15:1 “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.”

Proverbs 31:26 “She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.”

Proverbs 18:21a “Death and life are in the power of the tongue…”

(Some other verses to look up are: Proverbs 12:18-19; Proverbs 13:3; Psalm 52:4; Proverbs 10:32

When we are upset or do not like something someone has said or did toward us, it is so easy to let cutting words roll right off our tongue, isn’t it? They come so easy. Normally our attitude is we just want to ‘get back at them’ but that isn’t Christ like is it? We should desire to speak words that heal. We should desire to guard our lips and speak with wisdom. Our deepest desire should be to only speak those words that are acceptable in the sight of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ! Ps. 19:14 “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.”

Tomorrow we will look at: Shovel - Don't Shovel Out Dirt About Others (GOSSIP)

Gotta Love Yard Sales

Oh my...have I been a bad girl since I've been home at momma's. They have got the most wonderful yard sales around here. This is how much I enjoy going to them. I woke up at 4 something this morning and couldn't go back to sleep. I was up and out the door with all 4 (well, one decided to stay with papaw but she was up and ready to go) by 7 a.m. (Why can't I get it all together that quick on Sunday mornings---well, they weren't all 'fixed up' either this morning) This is so small (but BIG to me) and I believe God knows our desires (this was not a 'need' but a MAJOR 'want)-- I got a new look for my dining room for under $15.00! I have been so tired of the 'country' look (the one I've had since we've been married ---going on 14 years)I wanted a more 'formal' look I guess you'd call it!

I went to this yard sale up the road from my parents and it seemed as if the lady had totally changed her decor in her kitchen/dining area. I looked at it and thought well, should I or shouldn't I? I got home and my mom and I were talking -- she ended up talking me into going back up and getting the stuff. So I hurried up and got up there telling myself "If it's still there, then it's for me. If it's not...well, I am not sure how I'll react" Anyways, it was still there. I got a gorgeous picture from Home Interior (my sister-in-law sells it and actually has the same picture and she said it was like a $65-75 picture) -- I GOT IT FOR $5.00! Then I got a centerpiece that goes with the picture for $3.00; placesmats to match it with napkin rings for $4.00; and at a separate yard sale I found a runner that goes exactly with what is in the patterns for $1.00. Can't beat that!! My husband will be thrilled---I hope he likes the new look! I have found so many deals while I've been up it's been amazing. Don't you just love it when someone else gets tired of their 'junk' and you find it as a treasure? Have Fun Going Yard Saleing!!!

Loads Of Fun On Our Time Away From Home

Well, we have been staying busy...so much so I find little time to keep my blog up right now. I am working on several new devotionals so hopefully I'll get those completed by the time I get back home.

I'll have to post pictures once I get back to our high speed internet (dial-up takes FOREVER) but the girls have been fishing (and Brianna caught a BIG one -- I have a picture to prove it); they've rode in a Model T car; they've met cousins they've never met before; got to help grandma break and can LOTS of green beans -- and more are coming tonight and the next several days I am REALLY EXCITED (NOT REALLY); Destiny and I have picked up my mom's violin and learned one or two songs thus far in less than a week and we have a new violin on the way and should get it tomorrow or Thursday so we are excited about our new 'adventure' with the violin; and sad but true, our baby Shianne has been sick since Saturday. She's been running about 104 fever among other 'unenjoyable' aspects of sickness - if you are a mother you can only imagine what I am speaking of. (I need my hubby cause he's the strong one when it comes to that 'stuff') Only 10 more nights til we are back together. I miss him immensely and told him the next time he has to go away on a trip, we are coming with him and we'll just live on the most dreadful vienna sausages but hey, we'd be together. (Actually I am glad we didn't go cause we'd starved with the price of food up there) We are certainly enjoying our time at grandma and papaws -- except the BAD storms, ticks and TERRIBLE mosquitos.

HAVE A WONDERFUL WEEK!

Getting The Most Out Of Lemons - Part IV

Tip #4

Tenderize meat by marinating it in lemon juice

There have been ‘lemons’ in my life that at the time (and some I still don’t understand) I didn’t know why I had to face such ‘sour’ times. I believe we face those times so we may become tender to others who are facing similar circumstances.

If it were not for those ‘lemons’ in our life, how could we honestly open our heart up and share in other’s heartaches? I can though because I’ve been there! Maybe I haven’t had the ‘lemons’ you’ve had in your life, and maybe you haven’t shared my ‘lemons’ - but someone has, ir or will be soon!

Why not use those times when we are being just marinated (saturated) in the lemons of life to tenderize our hearts and prepare ourselves to be a blessing to someone who is about to go through what we are now going thru?

Galatians 6:2a “Bear ye one another’s burdens,”

Are you getting the most out of the ‘lemons’ in your life? Put the squeeze on the lemons that come your way! Get the most out of them by following these ‘tips’ and allow them to help you grow spiritually and be a blessing to others!

Ladies, if you feel like you are at this present moment sitting directly under that ripe lemon tree with them coming at you one right after another and you don’t have Christ there with you--you’ve never accepted Him as your personal Lord and Saviour--I urge you to do so today.

Let’s allow the ‘lemons’ that come our way to sweeten us and draw us closer to the Lord and to one another!

Getting The Most Out Of Lemons - Part III

Tip #3
Squeeze the lemon on vegetables while steaming to keep the colors bright

Now, how many of us like it when life squeezes the 'lemons' on us -- does the effect make us shine more brightly like those vegetables are to do when the lemons are squeezed on them? I'd have to be honest and say, I allow the opposite to happen at times--I don't beam with the brightness as I do when all is going well.

What should our response be? We should allow our life to shine even more brightly for our Lord and claim His precious promises. We all know:

- God's ways are perfect Ps. 18:30a "As for God, his way is perfect:" Are our ways perfect? NO!
- God knows what is best for us! Romans 8:28 Do we always know what is best for us? NO!
- God is faithful. 2 Thes. 3:3a "But the Lord is faithful..." Are we always as faithful as we should be? NO!
- God NEVER fails Joshua 1:5b "...I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee" Do we ever fail? YES!

We have a responsibility to shine brightly for our Lord and Saviour during the good times and during those times we feel like we are sitting directly under a ripe lemon tree getting hit with one lemon after another.

Matthew 5:16 "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."

I'll be sharing the last tip tomorrow....Tip #4! Have a wonderful weekend!!!!

Check It Out!!

Check out my new recipes using lemon(s) as an ingredient on my Simple Cookn' site at
http://simplecookn.blogspot.com/ Enjoy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Getting The Most Out Of Lemons - Part II

Tip #2

If the lemon is very cold, you can microwave it for a few seconds before squeezing!

Ladies, at times we must have 'heat' applied to our lives! Those times we don't quiet understand and may question, "Why? Lord!" Maybe we won't know the answer to the "why?" on this side of Heaven, but we have God's precious Word that assures us that ALL things work together for good.

Romans 8:28 "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."

Tomorrow we'll look at Tip #3 which is a lot longer than todays :-)

Getting The Most Out Of Lemons - Part I

We are all probably familiar with the phrase "When life gives you lemons--make lemonade." I am not fond of just sucking on a plain ol' lemon. Now our girls like it when we go to a restaurant and they get a lemon wedge (even though I won't allow them too after someone told me they are handles by so many people etc). I prefer them in a dessert or used for some good ol' sweet lemonade on those hot summer days--like we are having right now.

I found some tips to Putting The Squeeze On Lemons! I want us to take these simple tips and apply them to our lives when the 'lemons' come our way!

Tip #1
Before juicing, press down firmly and roll the lemon on the kitchen counter to break up the pulp before juicing!

Do you ever feel like you've just been pressed down firmly and rolled on? How about those times when one trial after another comes your way? There's the saying--"When it rains, it pours"--ever been there?

Maybe it's dealing with:

- an illness (personally or with a loved one)
- financial difficulty
- a wayward spouse or child
- a friend - or you thought they were your friend and now they've just turned on you for no apparent reason

Just like a lemon needing to be pressed down firmly and rolled to break up the pulp for better juicing--we need to be pressed down and rolled to mold us and make us into what God wants us to be.

I'm sure if that lemon could talk, it would probably rather not be treated in this way but we know in the end it's for the lemons good for effective juicing.

I Peter 5:7 "That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ;"

II Corinthians 12:9-10 "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong."

Tomorrow we'll look at Tip # 2!!!!!!! I'll also be posting some lemon recipes to my Simple Cookn' blog as well.

We Made It!!!!

We made it to our parents safetly with no problems and better time than I think we've ever had...I was driving most of the time though :-) And even got good gas mileage...I was driving though :-) The Lord blessed us with beautiful weather most of the way...we did run into some dark weather in Kentucky but nothing major. My hubby flew out yesterday for Maryland and the Lord watched over him as well and gave him a safe flight. I am sure thankful we didn't go up there with him. The cost is SO expensive. He paid almost $13.00 for a hamburger, onion rings and a coke. Guess we better not complain about the price of groceries where we are family:I am just so thankful to serve a God who watches over His children. What a blessing and a comfort! I'll try to post some devotional thoughts soon. My parents have dial-up so it's VERY, VERY, VERY S L O W!!!!!!!
I also want to thank those who prayed for Destiny who got sick the day before we left. She must have had a touch of something or ate something that aggravated her Crohn's disease which made her sick. I was dreading traveling with a sick one but the Lord answered prayer -- ONCE AGAIN! What a faithful God we serve. Have a wonderful week.

Pray For Destiny

Please pray for our oldest daughter Destiny. She hasn't been feeling well and actually got sick just a minute ago. (won't go into details) We are planning to leave tomorrow and as we all know there is no fun in traveling 10 hours while sick. Pray she just has a touch of something (and it's not associated with her Crohn's disease) and it will pass quickly! Thanks for your prayers in advance.

I'm Exhausted!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I don't know about you but I am so exhausted by the time I do all the preparation to even go on a vacation that I desperately need one now. It's been crazy. Of course, before I leave on vacation I clean EVERYTHING--the toilets, tubs, floors, dust, yard all freshened up, laundry, clean out frig, wipe down everything (oops...I forgot the ceiling fans)...so my house is really smelling clean right now. Then it's the packing and more than just packing...realizing I am packing for myself PLUS 4 girls (and the 3 older ones are REALLY into clothes).......AND SHOES! I showed my husband just how many bags we have for shoes between myself and our girls...there is definately more than enough shoes packed for the trip. My husband is so sweet though...he's just come to the conclusion he'll never understand all we (the girls and I) do but it's just 'lady stuff'! Then I always pack extra because you know how it is as a woman...outfits I pick out to take may not be what I feel like wearing that day so I always take extra (too many extras). You know there are certain times I could try on several outfits before I decide on one...I am sure you understand (especially on Sunday mornings). So after all this work...I am really in need for some R & R (Rest and Relaxation)! If I am unable to do any posting, I look forward to being back to blogging on August 4th!!!!!! Have a blessed weekend!!!!!!!!!!

Unfolding The Rosebud

It is only a tiny rosebud,

A flower of God's design;

But I cannot unfold the petals

With these clumsy hands of mine.

The secret of unfolding flowers

Is not known to such as I.

GOD opens this flower so sweetly,

When in my hands they fade and die.

If I cannot unfold a rosebud,

This flower of God's design,

Then how can I think I have wisdom

To unfold this life of mine?

So I'll trust in Him for His leading

Each moment of every day.

I will look to HIM for His guidance

Each step of the pilgrim way.

The pathway that lies before me,

Only my Heavenly Father knows.

I'll trust Him to unfold the moments,

Just as He unfolds the rose.

- author unknown

From Just Batter To A Blessing

Ladies, my weakness is sweets - especially chocolate! I enjoy cooking but I really enjoy those warm delicious desserts--those hot turtle fudge cakes; those mouthwatering chocolate chip cookies; and the ultimate chocolate covered cherry cookies!

When I begin to make a turtle fudge cake, I start out with a box of devil's food cake mix. Now that mix by itself is dry and bitter. What happens when I begin to add the eggs, the water, and oil? The dry and bitter mix becomes tasty--so much so you want to lick the remaining out of the mixing bowl AFTER you pour the batter into the baking dish. Then comes the waiting period--25-30 minutes. The timer makes the grand triumphant sound and out comes the cake. The cake as it is would be good--but just wait till you pour the melted chocolate chips and caramel over the cake. Then you sprinkle pecans on top of the warm topping. Then you drizzle MORE caramel ice cream topping on top of the nuts---WOW! You talking about a delicious dessert (I accidently typed in 'walking' instead of talking at first--you'll definitely need to walk after devouring this dessert :-) )

To get to the delicious layered turtle fudge cake, there were steps to take. Let's take a look at the steps of this dessert and see how this may be applied to our life.

1. Dry and Bitter Ingredients

Ladies, I am not too eager to dip my fingers into that dry and bitter cake mix, are you? In life, we are going to be faced with times where everything coming our way is dry and bitter. We certainly wish we weren't having to 'taste' this step of life, but just wait--there awaits a blessing for us in the end.

2. Mixing All The Ingredients For The Batter

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose" Romans 8:28

As I sit on Wednesday night and hear the many prayer request, I find myself asking, "Why, Lord?" It seems some have so many 'bad' things to come their way--but those 'bad' times are for our good. They are there to help mold and make us into what God wants us to be. Just like this cake, if you take all the ingredients separate:

- the cake mix - Who really desires to sit and eat dry, bitter cake mix?

- vegetable oil - Who desires to drink vegetable oil?

- water - well, most of us could probably drink more water I am sure

- eggs - we certainly don't want to eat just a plain old, cold, raw egg

But what happens when you mix all the ingredients together? The END result is a delicious dessert - a blessing!

3. Applying The Heat

"Wherein you greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations; That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:" I Peter 1:6-7

Even after we mix all the ingredients together, there is still more to do to get that final product--heat must be applied.

We look forward to putting that dessert in the oven because we know soon we'll be tasting that hot cake. Do we look forward to the times where the 'heat' is applied to our life? When the trials and testings come our way? No, because we don't focus on the end result-the blessing!

4. The End Result - From Just Batter, To A Blessing

Philippians 1:6 "Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ"

As a Christian, our desire is to be Christ-like -- if we would only grasp our life as just the simple batter and every little 'ingredient' - the trials, testings, problems - is important because it's shaping us into what Christ would have us to be - a blessing!

Some things I've faced in my life, I didn't understand at the time but as I look back I can see how they are all working for my good in the end. I am able to help other ladies through problems and trials that I have faced--to try to be a blessing to others!

I'd like to conclude with a little saying I found:

If you are taking a beating, cheer up!

God is just stirring the batter

To bring you a blessing!

I am sure your mouth is just watering thinking about this dessert that has consumed this devotional so here's the recipe...ENJOY!!

Turtle Fudge Cake

1 pkg devils food cake mix (plus ingredients to make cake)

4 ounces of semi sweet chocolate chips

1 jar (12 ounces) caramel ice cream topping, divided

1/2 c pecan halves, coarsely chopped

vanilla ice cream (optional)

Preheat oven to 350. Prepare cake mix according to pkg and bake in 9 x 13 pan. Place chocolate chips and 1/2 of caramel in microwave for 30-60 mionutes or until melted. Carefully spread over baked cake after cools for a few minutes. Sprinkle pecans over chocolate spread. Then drizzle extra caramel topping over cake. Serve with ice cream if desired!

Praise Him! Praise Him!

Do you know that when you receive a blessing, you should tell someone else about it?

Ps. 105:1 says "O give thanks unto the Lord, call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people."

We are to "make known his deeds among the people." Now we shouldn't do so in a bragging way, but it blesses me to hear how others are being blessed.

Do you get encouraged when you hear how God is blessing someone else? It's encouraging to me to see how God works and how He meets each of our needs. It's easy to reflect on our blessings and be thankful for things around Thanksgiving---but how about the rest of the year?

The Bible says in Hebrews 13:15 "By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise of God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name."

Continually doesn't mean once a year or even once a day? Webster dictionary says continually means "repeated often; going on in rapid succession; continuous; going on without interruption."

Ps. 34:1 David says, "I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth"

There again we see the word 'continually' used.

Ps. 119:164a says "Seven times a day do I praise thee?"

Do you find yourself stopping 7 times a day to praise God? Do you even stop to praise Him once? To me it's easy to praise God when things are going good and you can really see the blessings pouring into your life, but how about when we are:

- suffering heartbreak

- tragedy

- disappointment

- frustration

- grief

- sadness

Do you still find yourself giving praise to God through all those times? One of my favorite verses is Romans 8:28 and most of us know this verse: "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose."

We should be able to praise the Lord at all times, in all circumstances, and for everything.

Do you realize that whatever God permits to come into our lives is designed to conform us to the image of His Son? When we see this, it will take the question mark out of our prayers...we will be able to praise Him during the times that aren't so good in our eyes.

It's easy to pray for our home, clothes, or for the sunshine, but there is SO much to be thankful for and Praise God for...CONTINUALLY!! If you are saved, salvation alone is a gift of such tremendous value that it should draw endless thanks from our hearts to the Giver which is Jesus Christ. I challenge you to remember to PRAISE GOD CONTINUALLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Celebrating Another Birthday

Our 2nd daughter celebrated her 8th birthday yesterday. We actually held a little party on Sunday and opened gifts and had birthday 'sundaes' instead of cake! Everyone got to dress up their own ice cream in a waffle bowl. It was a lot of fun and different from the ordinary birthday cake. Yesterday was her actual birthday so we took her out to eat and went to Chuck E Cheese. They always have a blast playing the games there. I also took her shopping at Cato's (our favorite clothing store) and Target! She is at the stage of loving shopping...that isn't good on daddy's wallet though! I praise the Lord God has blessed her with health and strength...May the Lord bless her with MANY, MANY more birthdays!

What Does Your Mirror Reflect?

Mirrors are very fascinating--especially in those fitting rooms, right ladies?

Mirrors are unique--they get your attention! If you're a mother, I am sure there's been a time you've taken a baby to a mirror to see how they will react. I always like to take them to a mirror when they begin to wave and tell them, "Wave at the baby" (which is themselves in the mirror)

I want us to think about a mirror and hopefully learn a lesson from just a simple object as a mirror!

Before you read any further, just go grab you a mirror. Go ahead--I am sure there is at least one hair out of place! Now look in that mirror. What do you see? You will see EXACTLY what you give when you place the mirror in front of you. If you walk up to a mirror and give it a smile, it will smile back at you. If you frown, you'll receive a frown in return.

Now you're probably wondering what this has to do with us spiritually--A LOT!!!! We have mirrors all around us--daily! Let's take a look at a few!

1. What is the oldest mirror?

A lake! If you look into a lake, you can see yourself! The trees along the edge of a lake are reflected in the water. There's a story of a dog that started across a body of water walking on a log with a bone in his mouth. He looked into the water and saw a dog and a bone down there. He turned the bone loose and dived head foremost into the water after the bone. Do you know what happened? He lost his bone.

What lesson can we learn from this illustration? Well, the same thing happens with greedy people who go after what belongs to others. We are such blessed people but yet we focus on others who have more (or in our eyes have more)! Having more or wanting more is not where we need to look--when we look in our mirror, we need to be content.

Phil 4:11b "For I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content"

Hebrews 13:5b "and be content with such things as ye have;"

Thank the Lord for what YOU do have!!! Having everything doesn't bring happiness--having everything in Jesus certainly does!

2. The Earth Is Like A Mirror

Galatians 6:7b "For whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap"

What happens if you plant a watermelon seed? You will get a melon. If you plant a grain of corn, you get corn not beans. What are you sowing? Well, except that in return. Just like a mirror--what you see is what you are--what you sow, you will reap!

3. Our Life Is Like A Mirror

As Christian ladies, when others see us, they should see Jesus reflected in and through us. Have you ever went to a fair where they have those 'distorted' mirrors? One makes you real tall, real short--it definately doesn't reflect back the real you. Ladies, if we say we are a Christian but yet our life doesn't reflect that to others, we have a 'distorted' testimony. Are we really reflecting WHO Jesus is and who Jesus wants US to be?

Let's make every effort, with the Lord's help, to make sure our mirror tells all for Christ sake--to honor and glorify Him -- in EVERY area of our life!

A Much Needed Break Awaits Me YEAH!!!!!

Oh, this week is just one of those "so much to accomplish and so little time" weeks. This weekend we are leaving to go home to our parents for 3 weeks. My husband has to go out of town for job training for 3 weeks...for which I am not looking forward to but that just comes with it. So I've been trying to get everything ready to live with grandma and papaw for 3 weeks while he goes away on a business trip; get little things ready for my hubby to take along with him. I keep reminding myself "Distance makes the heart grow fonder"...but that doesn't take away the thought of not being with my one and only for almost 3 weeks. I am a former military wife so I know about the deployments and long separations...still doesn't make it easy. One day I was telling the girls how much I was going to miss daddy and one of them said "Three weeks isn't long compared to 5 months" ... still doesn't help though. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful husband. So anyways, I've been busy making up little notes, getting some special snacks for him to pack, making sure he goes with anything and everything he'd possibly need...I'm sure I'll forget something though. I even ordered him a mousepad with our picture on it as a little surprise so I'll be next to him all day at his computer. We have a little thing if he is going to be gone that we journal about our day...nothing long...that would stress him out having to write at great lengths...but just a little note about the day and then when we reunite we give it to each other and read over it. Just another way to stay connected while we are apart. Of course, he'll call every night and every morning if he gets up in time :-) We still have a little one getting up during the night so I've been teasing him he'll be getting some quality sleep while he's away.

Since he'll be gone, and it's been since Christmas since we've been 'home', he is taking me up there to stay. The girls are so excited. Of course, they'll get spoiled but 'safely spoiled'...there is a fine line there for which a grandma/papaw would NEVER pass, right? I am looking forward to a much needed break. Pray we'll have a safe trip as we all travel! I am not sure if I'll be able to do any posting so if you check back and there's nothing new...be sure and check back August 4th and I'll definately have it updated.

Encouragement - Part III

(This is a continuation of the devotional "Encouragement"...see Part I and II as well)

3. People

Philemon 1:6 "That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus"

Have you ever faced something and you thought you were the first person to ever have to endure such trial or problem? I have thought that way at times. I thought it was for some other lady to face--not me. I've been there and gotten through those times with the Lord's help. Now, I see how those discouraging times have enabled me to encourage other ladies who are facing similar circumstances. If I hadn't faced those times, I wouldn't know how to encourage and be a blessing to others.

When we share how God has been faithful to us during those times, that may be all a person needs to give them the determination to persevere through the trials they are facing right now.

(It's Your Turn)

1. Are you allowing the Lord to use you and your past circumstances to be an encouragement to others?

2. Think of someone who has been an encouragement to you because they'd already faced what you were facing. Werent' they a blessing?

3. Have YOU been able to be a blessing to someone by sharing how God has been faithful during your times of discouragement?

4. Priority Mail

Have you opened your mailbox with a smile lately? For the most part, I find that hard to do because when I open it (or when the girls bring the mail), there awaits for me bills and junk mail--most of the time. How encouraging is that?

Do you know what kind of mail I love to receive? I love to get an encouraging card sealed in a brightly colored envelope. "Real Mail" comes in the form of a personalized, handwritten envelope, with a pretty stamp and maybe even some cute stickers. For just the price of a postage stamp, encouragement can be passed along.

What does encouragement do for those around us?

I Thes. 5:11 "Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do."

Our encouragement gives others the strength to carry on, strength to grow, and strength to rejoice through the days.

What is the value of an encouraging word?

Proverbs 12:25 "Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop; but a good word maketh it glad"

A word of encouragement can often drive away the worries that tend to pull us down.

How do we choose our words to say to someone?

Ephesians 4:29 "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers."

Remember, we are to encourage. Our words can build up or they can tear down. We need to choose encouraging words--words to strengthen someone's spiritual walk with the Lord.

(It's Your Turn)

1. Go get you a pack of note cards and a book of stamps.
2. Set down and ask the Lord to bring some ladies to your mind that are need of some encouragement.
3. Do you have your list of verses that are an encouragement to you?

- Always put at least one Scripture reference in with your notes.

- What's the main Source of encouragement we have? God's precious promises found in HIS WORD!

5. Presents

Hebrews 3:13 a "But exhort one another daily, while it is call To day"

When I say 'presents', I am not thinking of spending a lot of monies! You've heard the saying, "It's the thought that counts". It doesn't take much to brighten someone's day. All that's needed is something a little out of the ordinary.

Here are just a few ideas to brighten someone's day:

- bake a fresh batch of cookies

- fix a meal

- offer to watch the children for a day while she goes grocery shopping -- that would be a relief :-)

- candles - I love candles! (I'll let you in on my secret--No matter how dirty your house is (or you think it is) -- the smell of candles will make the house feel (and smell) fresh and clean)

- small basket of snacks

- meet a friend at the park for a picnic lunch

- go for a walk with a friend

- treat them to lunch

(It's Your Turn)

Look within your family, church, neighborhood, work place--is there a lady in need of just a little surprise to cause her to pause and smile?

Ladies, each and every day we have the opportunity to offer encouragement, but we are so busy trying to keep our own lives going we let them pass right by. Let's pray the Lord will open our eyes to see those around us who are in need of encouragement. Just think what God would do through YOU (and I) - if we make ourselves available and have a willing heart. Look for ways to be a blessing and an encouragment--starting TODAY! You may be the one in need of a blessing and encouragement tomorrow.

Remember, encouragement goes both ways--

Send it out to be a blessing

And you'll receive a blessing in return!

Have a blessed day!

Encouragement Part II

(The first part of this devotional was posted Saturday here... http://simplereflections-melissa.blogspot.com/2008/07/encouragement.html

2 Power of Prayer

Along with the importance of God's Precious Promises to encourage me, I find equally important the power of prayer. I am going to share a personal struggle I dealt with a few years back (and still have from time to time but not nearly as severe) -- panic attacks (or some call them anxiety attacks). When I initially started having them, I thought I was going to die -- and to be honest, at some points I wanted to die. It was very scary. My husband and I couldn't figure out the "Why's?" in all of it. It put a strain on our home. It was a very trying time for us. Once I put all (here's that word again) P-R-I-D-E aside and I began sharing my struggle with other ladies and asking them to please pray for me, I began to experience those attacks less and less. I had some dear friends who e-mailed me with Scripture references; I received cards with Scripture in them; just little gifts of encouragement - one that sticks out to me is a book a lady gave me entitled "Growing Weary Doing Good" an excellent book. (Thanks Karen AGAIN); phone calls came with a lady on the other end willing to pray with me to help me through the day. Do you know what I concluded? God's Word is powerful---and God STILL answers prayer. I give GOD ALL the glory for getting me through those times (and still getting me through those times when I struggle) but God uses PEOPLE!

Do you allow the Lord to use you to encourage others? I am so thankful for those who prayed for me, took the time to send me a card, called or e-mailed me. We need one another, ladies!

Not only is it encouraging to see my prayers answered, but how encouraging to see those for whom I've been praying for--their prayers answered!

(IT'S YOUR TURN)

1. Make a prayer list

2. Pray faithfully over each prayer request

3. When a prayer is answered, highlight that prayer so you'll know it's been answered and put a date by it.

How can we receive a blessing from a 'prayer list'? You will be encouraged when you see at the end of the day, week, or it may be a year or longer--to see GOD STILL ANSWERS PRAYER! Don't forget, ladies---it's HIS PERFECT timing--not ours! So don't give up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am just so devasted on how many marriages (within the church even) are just falling apart. It just breaks my heart. I guess I have a big heart for those ladies going through separations/divorce because I have nearly been there myself...before my husband got saved. I remember the hurt, disappointment, frustration, just feeling worthless, not understanding "WHY ME?"...but I do know that through that time I consistently prayed for my husband. Oh, there were times I wanted to give up because at one point (near the end right before he got saved and the Lord turned his life around) it literally seemed the more I prayed the worse the situation got. I remember one night literally just at the point of giving up on him and it was like something just told me to keep praying. I am his wife...who else is going to pray for him like his wife. So I kept praying and am I forever grateful that I did. Isn't it wonderful to know that once Christ comes into a home...HE makes all the difference? KEEP PRAYING, ladies! Don't give up!!

Tomorrow we will look at #3 People

Encouragement - Part I

My desire in starting this site was to encourage ladies in the Lord, and for each of us (including myself) to draw closer to the Lord. I must be honest, as I look around, many ladies are in need of encouragement. I need encouragement from time to time...more often than not.

I want you to think about the following:

You are facing the worst day(s), but you put up a brave front and smack a fake smile on your face. You are crying (on the inside), staggering under heavy burdens, BUT you don't let anyone know.

Have you ever been there? I have been there...A LOT! Why do we not share those times we are facing with others? Personally, I believe it's P-R-I-D-E! Pride! How do I know? Pride is what keeps me from sharing and asking for prayer and strength through those difficult times.

Ladies, we are to encourage one another. Encouragement comes in many different forms. Here are a few ways we may give or even receive encouragement:

- a little compliment ("You look so nice today"; "That color looks so good on you")

- an unexpected present (not just for a special occasion)

- a card

- a phone call just to say "I'm thinking of and praying for you"

- a hug

Encouragement is ALWAYS welcomed, even when we feel we are on a mountaintop, right?

If you were having a really bad day, what one thing would help turn things around for you? Now, don't be looking for some 'big' answer...encouragement can come and most often comes in small packages.

(It's Your Turn)

Now it's time for you to think of some ways you've been encouraged. Have you made your list? I sure hope so.

I am going to share some ways I am encouraged.

1. Precious Promises

The encouragement we need is already ours because they come from God's own Hand. Even if everyone else let's us down and isn't there to encourage us during our difficult times, the Lord will provide for our every need--even the need for encouragement.

Philippians 4:19 "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus"

The Bible should be our main source of encouragement. No matter what may be discouraging us, the Bible is filled with precious promises to help us through. Though our circumstances may change, God's power remains.

Here are just a few of the precious promises I often turn to when I need encouragement:

Ps. 46:1 "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble"

Phil 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me"

II Timothy 1:7 "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind"

Ps. 18:2 "The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower."

Ps. 55:22 "Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved."

Matthew 11:28 "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest"

(It's Your Turn)

I just shared a FEW of my favorite verses that encourage me. I would like for you to take some time to write out some verses that bring encouragement to you. (You'll need these later on in our study).

Next posting we'll look at the the Power of Prayer!

Being A Daisy In A World Full Of Weeds Part III

I - Integrity

Integrity is purity; sincerity; honestly; uprightness

Ps. 25:21 "Let integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait on thee."

To be a lady of integrity:

1. Don't be immoral

- have purity in your thoughts, motives, actions, the way you carry yourself

2. Don't devise evil against others

-Proverbs 3:29

-Don't try to figure out how to take advantage of others

3. Don't lie

- Lev. 6:2

- Lying seems to be dominating our world but it's sin

4. Don't slander others

- Ps. 101:5

- God will do the cutting off

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

S- Separated

II Corinthians 6:17 "Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you."

Now that does not mean we are to go around with our nose in the air thinking we are better or too good...we are all sinners saved by grace if you are saved. Never forget where you came from. If you've read previous post concerning a neighborhood dispute...I have to remember that there was a time I didn't like being around 'church' people. They made me uncomfortable because I wasn't living the life I knew I should be living for the Lord. I was raised in a christian home. I knew better!

Psalm 1:1-2 "Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night."

____________________________________________________________________

Y - Yielded

In order for us to be a daisy in a world full of weeds, we must yield ourselves to the Lord. He is the most wonderful Master.

Romans 6:16 "Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?"

How can we be a daisy in a world full of weeds?

D - Our DESIRES need to be Christ-centered

A - ADORN ourselves in a Christ-honoring way

I - Have an INTEGRITY that is pure, sincere, honest, and upright

S- SEPARATE ourselves from teh world -- in our talk, walk, dress...

Y - YIELD ourselves completely to the Lord.

Let's go out and be bright blooming daisies for the Lord to this lost and dying world.

Happy 4th of July!

HAPPY 4th OF JULY EVERYONE!!!!!!!!!!

Being A Daisy In A World Full Of Weeds Part II

A - Adorn

Do you realize that as a Christian, people are watching us? When my husband and I go out with our four little girls---people watch us--they can see there is a difference. No, we aren't perfect but with the Lord's help we are setting the best example we can as a Christian.

We should dress as Christian ladies, but we should have a good testimony not only in our apparel but in our attitude, and the way we handle different situations that may arise in our daily lives.

Adorn ourselves in modest apparel

I Timothy 2:9-10 says "In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness, and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works"

When we dress modestly, we please our Lord and reflect HIS purity.

Did you know that how we, as ladies, dress affects our behavior and shows what is really in our hearts? Mrs. Beverly Hyles said "Your clothing reveals your attitude about yourself and authority"

Ask yourself: Would this dress be pleasing to Jesus? I Thes. 2:4b

This is a personal story but I feel it's worthy sharing: My husband was going to take me away for my birthday so I wanted to get a really nice dress...something different...for our get-a-way trip. I went to the mall; tried on the most beautiful dress and fell in love with it. It definately wasn't something I would normally pick out but remember I wanted something 'different'. I got it home and hung it up on the back of the door just looking at it every day and anticipating our 'get-a-way'...which are few and far between with four little ones. The day of our departure I was getting ready and about 1/2 hour before he was to get home, I prepared to put that dress on. When I put it on, it felt 'heavy'...come to find out...they had forgotten to take the security ink tag off of it. OH, my heart just dropped. I called the store literally upset and almost in tears...like they were going to share a trick to get it off the dress...but I asked anyways. To make a long story short and believing ALL things happen for a reason...deep down I knew the dress really wasn't that modest...not that it was low or real short but the material was the factor here. My husband is very honest and I respect that. As a lady, not thinking of course with a man's mind, I'll try something on and he'll say "honey, that just looks too much like lingerie material etc" and so if MY husband thinks that...what are other men going to think? So needless to say, that dress is no longer in my closet.

Not only how you dress, but how you walk...do you find yourself swinging your hips from one side to the other? We need to watch our body language...how we sit, stand, walk, our 'pose' while we are speaking to the opposite sex. There is nothing more irritating as a wife than to see some lady speaking to my husband with her hips cocked to one side and throwing her hands around while fluttering her eyes. Be careful! I'd rather be on the safe side than to be known as a 'flirt'!

Matthew 5:28 "But I say unto you, that whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart."

Dress so as not to be party to a man's committing adultery with YOU in his heart.

Titus 2:5 "To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed."

Spend time in prayer and in God's Word to find out if you are dressing in a way that pleases the Lord.

Adorn ourselves with shamefacedness:

- to have a sense of shame; a sense of modesty; bashfulness

- Does that mean we go around with a sober look on our face, shoulders hunched over looking like a whipped puppy? NO!!!!!!!!

- Remember, you and I are a child of the KING if you are saved!

Adorn ourselves with sobriety:

- means to be discreet, controlling all passions and desires that might cause a temptation to be immodest

- Ladies, we are to be careful about our way of dress.

- It seems many ladies - even in our churches - have no sense of shame or decency.

- They are out to show all they got. I don't believe that honors nor glorifies our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ...nor do I believe it shows honor and respect for our husbands (or future husband for those not yet married) when we dress that way and conduct ourselves in such manners.

Adorn ourselves with a meek and quiet spirit:

- have a mild temper

- be gentle

- don't be easily provoked or irritated

- yielded

- not proud

I Peter 3:3-5 "Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on a apparel; But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands:"

Thus far we've had:

D- Desires

A- Adorn

Tomorrow we will look at the letter "I" for Integrity

New Devotional - Click Onto Link

New Devotional At:

http://simplereflections-melissa.blogspot.com/2008_07_01_archive.html

Then scroll toward bottom of page...something messed up on the publication SORRY!

Destiny's Korner

Check out our oldest daughters site at http://mykorner.synthasite.com/

It is still UNDER CONSTRUCTION!

Being A Daisy In A World Full Of Weeds Part I

What happens when we allow weeds to start taking over a flowerbed or garden? I should have taken a picture of our garden...it's not too well kept right now. What happens is the weeds will choke the plants out and take over. You will then end up with a not so attractive flowerbed or a garden with no soon-to-be ripe veggies in it. You'll end up with a bed full of weeds that do no good but cause harm to the plants or flowers you are trying to grow.

I am not one who likes the outdoors but I do like fresh tomatoes out of the garden and green beans and corn---but I just want it to happen with no work on my part. I am not into getting out their and pulling weeds.

I remember when my husband and I first got married, I wanted a garden so bad so we started our first little garden. I like all the preparation but I do not like the upkeep...especially mid July when it's HOT HOT HOT! My mother (who is a true gardener) would come visit every once in awhile and so she would try to 'restore' my garden back to growth by going out and hoeing and pulling the weeds out.

The definition for weed is: any undesired, uncultivated plant that grows in profusion so as to crowd out a desired crop.

Ladies, if you are saved there are probably times you feel like a little daisy in a bed full of weeds.

Weeds refer to sin that just seems to be running rampant in our world today.

Just like the weeds that come into flowerbeds and gardens...when we allow sin to come into our lives, soon we are not as attractive and not producing fruit for the Lord as we should be.

When we allow the 'weeds' of this world to creep into our lives...the worlds:

- music

- clothing that are immodest and cause men to fall into sin and lust

- worlds talk -- no respect for others...it's all about me, myself, and I

- Idea of raising children...we aren't suppose to discipline and yet we stand back and wonder why there is a rise in crimes; drug and substance abuse; babies born out of wedlock; fornication; adultery; lying; cheating; and on and on we could go.

Our daisy won't be able to stand tall if we allow the 'weeds' of sin to creep into our lives. The 'weeds' of sin will creep in one by one and choke up:

- our testimony

- our light that should be shining brightly for our Lord

Just like weeds in a flowerbed, if you let one sin in, before you know it you'll have 1-2-3-4-5...and it's a lot easier to pull the first weed instead of waiting till you have a whole bed or garden full of weeds.

We are going to use an acrostic of the word Daisy to remind us of some things we need to do in order to insure that we don't allow the weeds of sin to come into our lives and choke us out of our joy as a Christian, destroy our testimony and our influence on others. One letter from the word "daisy" will be shared each day this week.

Today we'll look at the letter "D"

D- Desires

In order for us to be a daisy in a world full of weeds, our DESIRES should be centered in Christ, NOT on the world

Desire God's Word

I Peter 2:2 "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby"

We need to be in God's Word DAILY in order for us to grow in the Lord.

Desire Spiritual Gifts

God gives each Christian a spiritual gift. A spiritual gift is a God given SPECIAL ABILITY for service in the body of Christ.

Ephesians 4:7 ; I Peter 4:10

You may be saying, "I don't think I have any spiritual gifts" - well, spend some time to discover your spiritual gift.

Pray

Study

Desire Ps 37:4

Ability Phil 1:6 (try it out)

Blessings - you'll be blessed when you begin to use your ability for the Lord

Remember that spiritual gifts are to help others; not to be used to uplift ourselves.

All the glory belongs to Jesus.

I Corinthians 10:31b

Desire Wisdom

Proverbs 8:11 "For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it."

Don't get your wisdom from the world - Oprah, Dr. Phil...

When we speak of 'wisdom' we are talking about the knowledge and fear of the Lord which results in a hatred of sin and a love for truth and righteousness.

Ps. 111:10: Proverbs 1:7; 2:10-13; 9:10; 15:33 Look these verses up!

Sources of Wisdom:

God - Ps. 51:6

Scriptures - Prov. 1:1-6; Col. 3:16

Prayer Eph. 1:17; Col. 1:9; James 1:5

Teaching and warning Col. 1:28

Wisdom in how to be a Christian, the wife, the mother, the soul winner we should be--wisdom on keeping the weeds of sin out of our lives.

Desire To See Souls Saved

Romans 10:1 "Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved"

We need to have a burden for souls. I think of the song: It is no secret what God can do, what He's done for others, He'll do for you. If you are saved, you have a testimony (a story) to share. Give a tract as you go through the grocery line. I normally just ask them, "May I give you something to read when you get an opportunity?"

Our desires should be centered around Christ--not keeping up with our neighbor who has a new SUV, new boat, camper; the lady at church who has a new outfit every Sunday and everything coordinates to a 'T'...

Our desire should be to be in God's Word DAILY; desire to serve the Lord with the gifts He's given us to use for HIS glory and honor; desire to have wisdom for the things of the Lord; and a desire to see souls saved.

Tomorrow we'll look at the letter A - Adorn!