It Ain't Funny

Preface: Today's post is an adaptation of somethings I have read here and there. I am not trying to find fault. I just wanted you to share in the uncomfortable feeling/conviction I felt as I read some of these things. (Misery loves company.) ( :-) Seriously, these are just some observations that will make you think about your walk with God. They sure made me think.


Aint it funny how a $20 bill seems like a such a large amount when you put it in the offering plate, but just a little piece of money when you go shopping?

Aint it funny how 2 hours seems like an eternity when you are in church, but so short when you are surfing the Internet?

Aint it funny how when you are praying, you have to think to find words, but you can talk a blue streak with your friends?

Aint it funny how it is boring to read a chapter in the Bible but fun to read an entire Good Housekeeping magazine?

Aint it funny how you want to sit in the back in church, but in the front at a concert?

Aint it funny how it is hard to memorize a few verses from the Bible, but you can remember every detail of the latest gossip?

Aint it funny how fast we forward cute jokes, but hardly ever forward a Christian messages?

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God be perfect THOROUGHLY FURNISHED UNTO ALL GOOD WORKS. II Tim 3:16,17

But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness. ITim 4:7
But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. IITim2:16
But avoid foolish questions, genealogies, contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. Titus 3:9

And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful. Titus 3:14

Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesying. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. II Thess 5:16-23

Peace be multiplied to you my dear readers. PT2006

Quick! What's Your Favorite Quote?

Lately I've been looking for good quotes to sort of inspire me. You know, give me a jumping off point--a springboard for my writing. I've found many wonderful sayings--thought provoking truisms, humorous witticisms, political banter--you know what I'm talking about. I've been here, here, here and here. But the best quotes I have found have come from here. No, not the website, but the actual Book the site was created from. Spend some time reading from this link. It might inspire you, but don't blame me if it pushes you to action.
Leave one of your favorite quotes in the comment section.
Here's just one of mine: "In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord." Psalm 77:2.

New Page

Okay, I broke down and made a myspace page. I'm not real good with the design stuff, so bear with me. And no, the piano music is not me playing, but it is very beautiful. I thought it was interesting when I was looking through this site that has glitter images to post that the same image hangs over my piano in my front living room--minus all the glitter. Go browse around. If you have a myspace account send an add friend request. I need some comments over there. And you might find it a little more personal than I tend to be here. Sorry, not many pictures. I'm saving for a digital camera though now that I'm working full time again.

Hope everyone is having a great weekend. It's rainy here in Paris, so we are just hanging out at home. I have some work to get done, but wanted to stop by and tell you about my new page. I must admit, it looks like more of a place for the younger crowd, but maybe there are more of you over there than I know about. I haven't got the hang of searching for you down. So stop by and let me know if you want to be added.

TGIF

Ever have one of those days when you just couldn't get going--like you needed a jumpstart just to get out of bed? I'm having one. I've gotten the boy off to school, but I'm still in my jammies. I usually begin typing around 8. It's 7:52, and I'm starting to think about it. That, and a lot of other things. I've discovered working from home takes discipline. Even with your fanny stuck to the chair, you have to make up your mind you're going to get a certain amount done each day or the internet, e-mail, blogging, surfing, and gaming take over. Amazing what you can find to do without ever leaving your office chair--pay bills online, balance your checkbook, build a myspace page, watch videos, do research, play word games, download free programs and music. I could go on...but I fear it is only another ploy of mine to keep me from the drone of doctors' voices and the click of keyboard keys.

So with that in mind, I leave you with this quote from an American Poet, winner of 4 Pulitzer Prizes: The brain is a wonderful organ. It starts working when you get up in the morning, and doesn't stop until you get to the office.

Can you guess who said that?

Let Us Worship

Today there is so much buzz about worship. Who has the best? Which style is right? What difference does the music make? How many do you need to be on the team? With instruments or without? The questions are infinite. While we may not find the exact same questions with answers in the Bible, we can find principles to guide our choices in worship. Many of them can be found in the Book of Psalms.

Webster's defines worship as reverence, admiration, love, and expressing worthiness or excellence of character. Simply put, worship is a service given to the worthy.

Psalms chapter 95 extends an invitation to worship. The very first verse describes worship as a joyful noise unto the rock of our salvation. Verses 3 - 5 declare the worthiness of the Lord, providing the very incentive for worship. One posture for worship is given in verse six.
"O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our maker."

"Let us." What a powerful phrase! It implies the basic platform of worship in that it means: WE WANT TO..... Every expression of worship can be prefaced with those words. Without a sincere desire to worship, the words are meaningless. Preferences and postures should not be topics of debate. We are each unique to God, so it follows that each person would have a personal way of worshiping Him. He is not so much interested in our style as He is the motivation of our hearts. He is looking for a people that will cry out, LET US!


Romans 12:1 1Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. NIV

The American Standard Version reads: I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service.

Spiritual service, not church service. Your duties in and to the church are not always spiritual, neither are they always performed in a spiritual way. I believe the Apostle Paul is talking about our service to and for the Spirit of God. This is a willing performance out of sincere gratitude for the mercies of the Lord. It is our bodies that we should offer. Our body, soul, spirit, mind, will, all that is included within the confines of our body. He desires that we be living sacrifices in other words ACTIVELY giving of ourselves. Worship is not being a passive participant in a church service.

Additional postures for worship such as kneeling, bowing, and being prostrate are noted in the Psalms, as are various components of the worship experience. Instruments such as the harp, tambourine, lyre, flute, and cymbals are mentioned. Examples are given of individual worship as well as congregational settings. Even the creatures of earth and the sea itself are called upon to worship. The verse that keeps coming to mind; "Let everything that hath breath, praise ye the Lord." Praise, yes that is a different subject yet fully intertwined with worship. Perhaps another day we will deal with praise.

Bottom line: We were created by and for God, to do as He wills, and to do it willingly. We have so much to be thankful for, so many reasons to praise Him, so many things He has done on our behalf. He is everything we need. He is the great I AM. When we speak of all that He is, we are worshiping Him. With John I say, He is worthy to receive all glory, honor, power and praise. Make it a point today to worship Him. Honor Him with extravagant love and extreme devotion. Lavish on Him the words that are reserved for those deserving of the highest accolades. When we truly come to know Him we can not help but worship Him.
Do you know Him today? Will you worship Him today? With the Psalmist I say: LET US!--PT2006

Thoughts on the Winter Thaw

Dreams
by Langston Hughes

Hold fast to dreams
For if dreams die
Life is a broken-winged bird
That cannot fly.
Hold fast to dreams
For when dreams go
Life is a barren field
Frozen with snow.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The long winter freeze is beginning to thaw, and a new thing is blooming in my soul. See it there, fragile and delicate, blooming quietly, yet secretly defying any remains of late frost to wither its newfound petals. Behind her lies the dead remains of seasons past--seasons of regret and pain, now but just an interesting backdrop to her bright new world. Do not be afraid to dream, little flower. Whether you end up adorning the brow of a queen or gracing the table of a peasant, your life will not be in vain. Even if somehow you become crushed beneath the feet of fools and folly, your sweet savor will linger on their feet, and they will know that love once lived and died right within their reach.--C.H. Green

Reminders

You may have noticed a little ad to the left about the Ultimate Blog Party coming up the first part of next month. It will be here before you know it, so get your copy of the button and get ready to participate. There will be prizes and lots of new blogs to read and friends to be made. I'm thinking up a special post for my "Party Introduction." Not sure yet what all it will involve, but be looking for it here during party week. Hey, the kids all party during Spring Break, why can't we?

Speaking of Spring Break...I sure hope Puxatawny Phil was right. It's been cold as the Dickens here in Tennessee, and I'm about ready for some milder weather. I'm beginning to long for buttercups and crocus--and Bradford pears in bloom. As soon as it gets warmer, I'm going to start that outdoor walking routine. I'm at 33 lbs. lost, and I really need to get my behind in gear.

Thanks again for all you who participated in "My Story." If you haven't, please look in the archives on the sidebar, click on the link to read, and paste your story. You will be blessed by the ones that have posted. I guarantee it!

The Special Book

**Not about Valentines,but it IS about LOVE.

A week ago today, a certain Golden Child wanted to take a special book with him to AWANA. His mother tried to dissuade him she feared he would lose it. The book in question is a rather large children’s Bible story book that I had given him a few years ago. Notice I said she tried to dissuade him; he can be very persistent when he really wants something. I’m sure he insisted pleeeeeze a dozen times or more, and probably promised a few things too. You guessed it. He took the book to church that night.

The way I understand it, he got home before he remembered the book. At that point, his Mom was supposed to get back in the car, go back across town, find someone to open the church, and get his Bible. Since this was not a practical solution, she suggested that he could get his Bible on Sunday.

Apparently he was not satisfied with her reply. He promptly sat down and wrote a note. He asked for an envelope, stamp, and some help with the address. Neither of his parents read the note, but one of them helped with the street name, city, and zip. He must have folded that note a half-dozen times before stuffing it in the envelope and sealing it up.

I wish you could have seen my face light up when my husband brought in the mail. He said, “Looks like your nephew has sent you a letter.” Aunt Carla was scrawled almost all the way across the top of the envelope. The house number was in a large font also. To one side was written: FEB. 7 and near the bottom 8:57. For the first time in a long time I was impressed with the postal service. They actually took the extra time to hand sort it and deliver it. Golden’s charm must have caught them as they handled his request. The note read: Aunt Carla, I left my Bible you gave me at church.

Long story short, Sunday morning he found his treasured book, the Bible Aunt Carla gave him. With his description of it, you can see part of the book’s value comes from its giver. If you could hear him talk about the stories in the book, you would see that the contents are also important to him. I’m proud that he has two reasons to read and share his great big Children’s Bible story book.

The Bible is a special book. Certainly its contents are without rival. We must have the scriptures to teach us righteous living. But more importantly, we must know the Giver of the Book, the One who enables us to live by its words.

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple. Psalms 119: 105, 130 KJV

By the way, my Papaw, Golden’s great-grandfather calls Golden, his little preacher man. I never knew my Papaw to be a prophet, but maybe he is on to something. :)--PT2006 from Timeless Text Messages.

The Joke's On Me

OKAYYYYY you got me! How did you keep a secret thaaaaat long???? In case you're wondering, PT2006 has finally got her new blog up and running, and nobody told me. She's been leaving little clues in the comments in all caps and such. I was either too tired or too lame to piece it together. I just got back from over there, and it looks like she has gotten acclimated quite well. If you haven't found her yet, go see her at Timeless Text Messages. But watch out, she can be a sneaky lil heifer. LOL.

Winds of Change

I am so glad to see the sun brilliantly shining here in Tennessee on this cold February day. My family and I spent the morning on mundane but necessary housework that I have left neglected the last month. It felt good to wipe away the grime and vacuum up the bits of leaves from the carpet. I actually enjoyed scraping toothpaste from the bathroom sinks and folding the fresh, warm towels. I opened a kitchen window and let the breeze filter through and freshen the stale rooms. It was as if the breath of God was renewing me. I felt in my spirit that someone had been praying for me. Was it you? Or someone else? I do not know. But I know that it made all the difference.

After about six long weeks of 12 hour days sitting at my desk, burning my eyeballs out, poring over medical terminology, and pounding away like a mad woman on the keyboard, I think I have finally gotten to the point where I can make my quota without killing myself in the process. It's a good feeling. I have a new computer desk, a small corner unit with two shelves and a roll out drawer for the keyboard. And I went to Sam's and got a new chair that adjusts to fit my aching back. I cannot tell you the difference this has made in my body. I've adopted a routine of working a couple of hours and then getting up and stretching.

First I bend from side to side and then all the way forward and put my hands flat on the floor. Of course when you're my size you have to spread your feet about two feet apart, but that's okay. After I stretch, I march in place for as long as my legs and lungs let me. This is helping the blood to pump back to my heart and keeping the fluid from accumulating around my ankles. I haven't weighed in three weeks, but at last weigh-in I was at 30 lbs. even. Not too shabby for 3 1/2 months. Still I have a long way to go. But this time I'm determined to do this...So whoever's praying...keep it up. I am beginning to feel the winds of change blowing in my life.

Border Patrol

Today's Worship Wednesday post brought to you by PT2006--As always, I am challenged and blessed by your words, sis. Thanks. After you read today's devotion, don't forget to read the post, "My Story" below and share your story with all us.

Many an invasive parasite has entered the U.S. by way of imported fruits and vegetables. Even within our borders, destructive bacteria has made it's way to our tables due to the lack of proper inspections. Most recently the culprits have been riding on baby greens and shallots. What nasty intestinal problems these bacteria have caused. Even the most stalwart of men have been hospitalized by Salmonella.

In the same way, tiny little temptations invade our mind. They are often attached to a person or thing that has taken our attention without so much as a minimal inspection. The old cliche is true, birds of a feather flock together. You will become like the company you keep. When choosing your running buddies, you should take note of their habits and hangouts. If the places they frequent are unwholesome then most likely they are not ideal companions for you. On the flip side, people who are faithful to church and family have the makings of quality friends.

The principle is the same whether you are choosing a friend, church, or place of employment. Do a spiritual health assessment. Check out their surroundings. What are their limits or standards? Even the strongest of Christians can be pulled down by a small ploy of the enemy if it is hidden in the garb of light. Scripture warns of Satan transforming himself into an angel of light. That's not much of stretch for him since he is a has-been heavenly angel. Look out for the has-been Christians, they know just how to play the game.

"Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore, by their fruits ye shall know them." Matthew 7:15 - 20 KJV

My Story

Pastor Steve just finished up a series on witnessing called, "A Walk Across the Room." As part of these studies, he has encouraged his congregation to write out their salvation experience, their "story," in 100 words or less and share it with him and his staff. The logical reason is that if you cannot share your story (testimony, as we say in our overly religious churchese)in simple terms in under 100 words by doing this small step, what makes you think you will ever open your mouth and witness to the unsaved? He has a point.

My problem was trying to tell my story in 100 words or less. But let's face it, people don't want to hear long, drawn out versions of your experience. They want something meaningful, but short. They want answers and quickly. They don't want churchspeak and theology. They want to know the reason for your peace.

I tried about 5 versions of my story and never got it under the limit. But here is what I came up with that best suits my experience. I challenge you to write yours--using 100 words or less and post it here in the comment section. Then link to it on your blog and challenge three or four others to do the same. If you're reading this, you're tagged.
My Story
Mother was a saint, Father an alocholic. I have both shocking and endearing stories--stories of faith, but also of heartache. Mama taught me of the cross before I could speak. I never questioned it. I accepted Christ at age 8. In my early adult years, things happened that led me to question God and to seek answers outside of Him. But always the Truth of Christ would bring me back. It is like no other love. Because He lives, I can face tomorrow. Because He lives, all fear is gone. Because I know who holds the future, my life is worth the living, just because He lives.

109 is the best I can do Pastor Steve. What a challenge!

I've Been Nominated!

I'm so excited!!! I've been nominated for the Share the Love Blog Awards in the Blogger I'd Most Like to Meet category. Thank you for the nomination, my adoring fan. I'd like to meet you too. Voting ends soon, so head on over and cast yours. There are some terrific blogs listed over there that I have never visited. This is one of the reasons for the awards, to shed some light on new blogs and share some of the wonderful people and writers we've met along the way with others. If you want to vote, click on the sticker over there in my sidebar. My friends Diane and Grandma Dawn were also selected as nominees. Way to go girls!