Pulling Weeds

It’s funny how almost every little thing reminds me of my chickens. No matter which way I turn, it seems, there’s always some special memory that comes to mind. One such memory sprang forth on Monday night, while I was pulling weeds from my flower bed. The chickens used to love getting into the flower bed, and at first, I was real quick to shoo them out. But then I noticed that they were only bothering the weeds… they never touched my plants nor flowers at all. So, of course, I let them do the “weeding” for me. I thanked the Lord for providing for their nutritional needs, and also for saving me from that much work. :)

However, now that those chickens are gone, and I’m too afraid to let my new flock out, I haven’t exactly been thanking God for the weeds, anymore. They’d come up, and I’d hoe… they’d come up, and I’d hoe. An endless cycle, indeed. Yet still, the Lord has blessed it.

As I was hoeing the other night, I noticed that there were a few “new” weeds, that had really taken root. They were stubborn, and I had to exert myself a bit, to get them ripped up. I remember thinking how glad I was to have a good, sharp hoe in hand, for a such a job as this. Had I just been pulling them up by hand, I probably wouldn’t have gotten them at the source.

Then I thought about how very similar this is to the sin in our lives. You see, it isn’t enough just to scrape the surface, in getting rid of it. We have to go deep and pull it up by the root, or else it’s just gonna continue growing, and pretty soon, we’ll begin to see more and more weeds popping up all around it. (Sin begets sin.) And it’s not something we can handle in our own flesh. We need God’s Word… a wonderful tool for going deep and attacking sin at its source. In fact, in Revelation 1:16, we read that it’s a sharp two-edged sword. There is no better “tool” for cleaning sin up at its roots!

I’ve been thinking about my life, and the things I’ve battled in recent months… my own stubborn strongholds. Not “big sins”, like murder or anything. (You know how we Baptists are, always labeling them “big sins” and “little sins”.) But even the “smallest” sins (or what might seem small to us) are still a disgrace to our Heavenly Father. In His eyes, sin is sin. There is no scale that measures one sin from another. Sin is sin. And that’s it.

Whether it be unforgiveness; harboring ill will towards someone; that “little white lie” that only you and the fencepost knows about... it’s all the same to God as if we had killed someone. There’s no difference in His eyes.

As convicting as that is, there is good news. All of those sins (regardless of what label we may choose to place on them) can be forgiven. If we’re a blood-bought child of God, we already know about how His blood washes away our sin. At salvation, we had to confess our sins to Him, and ask Him to forgive us. And He was faithful to do so! We have His Word on it! BUT…

When we commit “new sins” (yes, even those we might not easily classify as sin), we must also confess those to Him… and allow Him to take them from us… by the root. It may be a painful process, sometimes, but if we’re sincere about walking and talking with Him, and having that close relationship with Him, it’s something we must do.

How do we do this??

This is where the two-edged sword comes in. We need it to show us where our failures and shortcomings are, and to strengthen us (spiritually), so that we can live the life that Christ would have us live (by His example). We need it to guard our hearts and to prepare us for the spiritual battles that we face each day… on a personal level, in our families, in our workplace or school. And if you’ve watched the news at all lately, you should know that we, as a country, are in for quite a battle, as this presidential election draws near.

My, my, how we all need to rid our lives of all those stubborn strongholds! Again, we can’t do it in our own flesh. We need that two-edged sword to dig deep and grasp it at the root, so we can go forward in God’s army without that “baggage of sin” weighing us down. We can accomplish so much more for Him if we get rid of that dead weight!

Anyway, it never ceases to amaze me at how God chooses to reveal Himself to us, even in the most unusual of places. It was a two-fold blessing for me, in my flower bed the other night, in that He took my mind off my chickens (my missing them, I mean). But then, too, He reminded me of such a powerful truth. ( I love it when He does that!)

Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great
and mighty things, which thou knowest not.
Jeremiah 33:3

I’m so thankful to Him for my salvation, and for the many blessings He’s poured into my life these past 11 years or so, since I came back to Him. I haven’t always made the best choices, nor done exactly as I should have. But each day is a new opportunity to live and do what’s right, according to His Will.

Be blessed! Have a wonderful day in Christ!

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A New Flock

My husband, Steve, thought it a good idea to go ahead and replenish our hen house, MUCH to my disapproval. "It's just too soon," I insisted, "why don't we just wait a while, and in the meantime, we'll keep watching out for our beloved MIA's to return."

He was persistent, so yesterday I went with him to pick up the new flock, to combine with our 4 remaining hens. Granted, they're very beautiful... actually GORGEOUS... this new flock, consisting of 1 rooster and 10 hens. (Yea, I know... that's alot!) But despite their beauty, and my husband's well intentions, they're just NOT the same. They're not "trained" to do some of the things my others did... like come to me when I call, "Kitty, kitty, kitty." Nor do they respond to my talking to them in the same way my original group did. And what's worse, they don't get along very well with my 4 hens. I've broken up several fights already, and it's only been 24 hours or so.

My friend, Pam, has been encouraging me this past week by telling me she's praying for chicken mercies. Well, Lois definitely needs some chicken mercies about now! I want to get over the fact that they're "different" from MY chickens. I want to grow to love them, and to love them as much as I do my others. I suppose it'll take some time, and quite a bit of observation, to get to know them (and them, I), for us to have the same kind of bond I had with the others. So please pray that the Lord will bless the situation, and also for them to get along with Daisy, Lily, Dahlia, and Petunia.

I've already been working on names. I wanted to keep with the "flower" theme... minus the rooster, who was already named.
(Meet "Roscoe", by the way.)

He's a gorgeous fella, as you can see, but he's kind-of mean. We're gonna try to trim his spurs this week, because his previous owners warned us of his "attacks". (Oh joy!)

But anyway, I've come up with names for the girls, all except one. She's a beautiful creature, whose colors remind me of flames. (This photo doesn't do her justice.) I've never seen one quite like her, but I'm searching for a flower-name, that has something to do with fire or flames, given her flame-like feather features (say that 3 times really fast). This is where YOU come in. I'm asking for suggestions, and from those, I'll pick out one that best suits her. I did find a *fire flower*, which greatly resembles her markings. But I just don't like that name. So please leave me a comment with any and all of your suggestions. OK?

Well, I'd better run for now. I'm still praying for my other little ones to come home. Steve doesn't think they will, but I'm praying, regardless. What a happy day that will be, when they do!

"...Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee..."
Matthew 8:13

"...Believe ye that I am able to do this?
...According to your faith, be it unto you."
Matthew 9:28,29

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Sweet Blessings

This evening at church, I was given a bag of "goodies", if you will. Inside were what my friend, Pam, referred to as "chicken cards" from the children in her 3rd grade classroom. Upon opening the bag and reading what these precious students wrote and drew inside these cards... well, my heart was just overwhelmed, to the point of tears. (Click on each picture to see detailed view.)


Pam had been telling her students about my chickens, ever since I first got them. She's told me how they often ask about the chickens, which of course, I thought was the sweetest thing in itself. :)

Well, since the news of my "chicken disaster" this week, they've kind-of made it their class project to research all about foxes, what they eat, how to catch them, etc. Then today, they made cards for me... to cheer me up, and to keep me from getting discouraged. I sooooo appreciate that... so much, in fact, that I wanted to do something special to thank them.

So I'm sharing some of these "chicken cards" with you here. Perhaps someone else needs to be encouraged today. If so, these cards are guaranteed to work. You can't look at them without being reminded of the Lord's faithfulness & goodness, even as we walk through the valleys. As the Whisnants sing, "Even in the valleys, God is good."

I want to thank my friend, Pam, and each of her precious students (3rd grade class at Ocean Bay Elementary) for caring about my broken heart, and for their wonderful acts of love and kindness. They truly touched my heart, and I know I'll be encouraged each and every time I look at these. (Thank you, guys! I love you, too!)

Please keep the prayers going up. I'm hoping and believing that those missing are safe, and that they'll turn up, once they FEEL safe again. Thank you all for your prayers!

May God bless you abundantly!

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Another Update

Still no news on those still missing (2 roosters and 4 hens). I've searched and called, 'til I was almost hoarse, the past 2 days. But no more of them have returned. I'm thinking maybe(?) the other night when the foxes were in so much commotion, chasing after something all night long, they could've gotten them (or else scared them further into the woods).

Steve got back into town last night, I guess around 8:30 or so. Now that he's back, I feel it's safe to share on here about my being at home alone while all of this was going on. He had gone on a missions trip with our Pastor. I don't regret his going, but I'm so glad to have him back at home! It's been one more week! First, finding the dead raccoon at my back door steps (which I wasn't sure was dead... or sleeping... when I first found it). Then having to deal with the burial myself, which I still don't understand Animal Control's thinking on that one. And now this whole thing with my chickens. Like I said, it's been one more week!

Anyway, Steve and I went searching early this morning, and way behind our place is the old Sanders place, which Steve's Daddy bought some years ago. We seldom go back there. Steve & James usually have it bush-hogged, but for some reason, just haven't done it this year. It's grown up really bad. But there's an old barn (actually 2) back there, so I'm praying the chickens made it there to safety, and are roosting in the old barn(s) up high in the loft, maybe, where the foxes can't get to them. It's really shaded back in there, and with it being "run down", I'd say there's plenty of "food" for them to survive on... lots and lots of bugs and worms, and other creepy crawly insects that they enjoy. (Yuck!)

I'm praying that Steve and some other men will take 4 wheelers and our portable chicken cage back there, to see if they're there... and if so, bring them back home. And you can bet, I will NEVER EVER leave them unattended again, IF I even let them out at all!

Please keep praying for them. I'm claiming and believing the Lord has provided shelter somewhere back there, and that they are safe. I have to believe that!

I told Steve I didn't want anymore Christmas presents, nor birthday presents again... EVER... if I can just have my chickens back now. That will make me happy enough. Big change, coming from someone who said she didn't want to fool with them in the first place. (lesson in there)

By the way, we did catch a fox in one of the traps. It was a small one, but still, eventually it would do what it's Mama or Daddy has apparently done. A friend of ours took it, and said he'd take it out into a non-populated area and turn him loose. (No worries, we're not killing babies!)

Thanks for your prayers. I appreciate them more than you know.


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Update

There's still no sign of the other chickens yet. Last night, I could hear the fox pups crying (not really a "bark"). I thought the traps must've worked, but when I drove down there and shined the flashlight on the one, it was empty. And the noise continued. It was on/off again for several hours. All I could do was pray. There was no way I could out there into the woods after dark. I don't even like doing it in the daytime (not alone, anyway). I'm too afraid of snakes and any other wild animals that might be residing out there. I guess you'd have to call it supernatural gumption, that I've been able to go out there so often these past 2 days... or rather, I suppose the most fitting term would be "LOVE".

I was just looking at my myspace page, which has the pics of the chickens on it (same as my blog), and the song was playing in the background (on my page), "Somebody's Praying Me Through". I couldn't help but think how fitting it was... 'cause I truly am praying them through... trying to, anyway.

I've been outside for the most part of the day. Everytime I come in for something, I keep thinking I hear the roosters crowing. I must be losing it, 'cause when I go running back out and listen, I don't hear a thing. It's like I get my hopes up, only to be let down again... and again... and again.

Of course, I should know it isn't possible for me to be hearing them crow, anyway. Colonel is gone, I'm sure of that. And Bingo doesn't crow very loudly. In fact, his crow is more like a "wanna be crow"... it's like he tries, but it won't come out right. It used to be so funny to me. I would just laugh at him when he'd do it, and then say, "It's okay, Bingo, you tried, didn't you, boy?". And he'd tilt his little head at me, like he always did while I was talking to him. Now I'd give anything to hear him again (for real). Then these tears of sorrow would quickly turn to tears of joy.

I was talking to Daisy, Lily, Dahlia, and Petunia earlier... and telling them how it's gonna be okay, that our buddies will be back soon. It's so sad to watch these 4 in there now... I was noticing today how they go around in circles, seemingly looking for the others. It just breaks my heart.

Speaking of those 4... I got 2 eggs today... one large and one small. That would be Daisy's & Lily's. It's good to know they're still laying, after all they've been through. I'm really surprised that they're laying now at all, because a few weeks ago, when I rearranged their "furniture" (that's what I choose to call their roosting shelves and nesting boxes inside the hen house), they were in such a turmoil over it, they didn't lay a single egg all day, the day after I did it. (I said then they MUST be baptist chickens... being that they don't seem to like change.) So anyway, for them to be laying NOW, after what they experienced Sunday evening... that's pretty good!

Well, I'm gonna go back out and see if I can "call them home". Again, I keep thinking about the message last night, how the sheep know their Shepherd's voice... and I'm hoping the chickens will hear and recognize MY voice, and will follow me on home. Of course, it will be dusk soon, so the foxes will be out again. Please keep praying... not so much for me, but for my little ones to be okay, and to come back safe & sound. Thank you!

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Long Day

I just came in again. I've been outside all evening. I tried working on some things out in the yard, so I could keep an eye out for my babies, if they came back. Unfortunately, they didn't come back... or at least not yet. I've walked out into the woods so many times today. I must be going crazy, 'cause I keep thinking I hear them. I've had last night's message on my mind... about how the sheep know the voice of their Shepherd. I imagine the same could be said of my chickens... knowing MY voice, I mean. So everytime I think I hear them (and even when I don't), I'd walk out into the woods again, calling for them, hoping they'd know it was safe to come on out and follow me back home. Oh, how I wish that had happened!

I feel like everyone must think I'm the biggest idiot on the planet... first of all, for being so attached to "chickens".... then, too, for going off and leaving them out like that. But regardless of what anyone thinks... the fact is, it's true. I let this happen. It's all my fault.

My hens that I do still have (Daisy, Dahlia, Lily & Petunia) are still so traumatized... I've never seen them act this way before. Bless their hearts, I can only imagine the horror they witnessed yesterday. It kills me to think about how everything must've transpired. Oh, my poor babies!


I had grown so attached to Colonel... it's hard to believe he's gone. And it hurts so much to know that he suffered such a violent death. The "remnants" I found of him tell that story all too well. Bless his heart!


I didn't sleep very much last night, and I can tell it. I'm gonna try to get some sleep tonight.

Please keep praying for the chickens. I appreciate all your prayers.

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Chicken Update

I just came in... I've been out in the woods, looking for my chickens. I got up at daybreak, and went out to feed & water, as usual... hoping to find that my 7 missing ones had come back to eat breakfast. It wasn't the case, however. :(

In fact, in my exploring, I found 2 huge piles of feathers... they were Colonel's... and you can tell it was quite a struggle. Bless his heart, I know I've lost him. There's a trail where the fox(es) took him through the ditch, back to the den.

I have cried, and cried, and cried. I try not to... and try my very best to even be "cold" about it... "They're just chickens", I try to force myself into thinking. But my heart doesn't agree with my reasoning. I am hurting so badly.

I spoke to Steve earlier, and he told me I needed to get out of the woods. So on my way back, I saw something move and it was a reddish/brownish color. I froze, 'cause I thought it was a fox and I didn't have my gun with me. But praise the Lord, it was Daisy!!! She began clucking at me, and I talked to her and shooed her all the way back to the pen. I'm so thankful the Lord answered prayer there and brought her safely back to me.

I've been searching for the others, but nothing. One of our church deacons came over (Steve called him) and was helping me search the woods. He also set 2 traps for the foxes. He said that now that they've had a taste (apparently), they'll be back for more. So I'm watching out very carefully for Abby (my cat), and for those chickens who might be returning.

Please continue to pray that they're just hiding out (like Daisy apparently was), and that they'll be home today. I'm praying for a miracle.

Thank you for your prayers. Not everyone understands, I know. But these are my children and I love them so much. Steve said we'll get more, but I don't want more. I want MINE.

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Urgent Prayer Needed

I realize this request is somewhat odd, and may even be considered "frivolous" by some. But I firmly believe God grants us the desires of our heart, if we pray believing. So I'm asking you to join me in praying for my chickens. I came home from church tonight to find that they are all gone, except the 3 smallest ones. I got the big flashlight (more like a spot light), and then discovered several piles of feathers, all different colors, near the chicken coop. I've been frantically searching the edges of the woods, looking up in the trees... and anywhere else I thought they might be taking shelter... all to no avail. I've cried until my eyes hurt, and I've just come inside, hoping (praying) they'll show up, come morning.

I'm usually not so stupid in leaving them out, but it was only a couple of hours, I thought. When I fed them their "snack" before church this evening (I had to be at church a little early, so it was about 5:15 or so), one of them lunged at my feet. (I was wearing flip flops... and for some reason, they always do that, when I wear flip-flops. I think they might think my toes are berries or something, with the bright polish that's on them.) Anyway, it scared me, so I jumped back. And when I did, they all came running out of the fence.

I often let them out for about an hour or so before dark, and then they voluntarily return to the coop, right at dusk. I figured this would be one of those times, and that I'd come home to find them roosting safe & sound, in the coop.

But when I went out there to close the gate and secure it, I noticed 3 of the smaller hens on top of the fence. I tried to get them inside, but they wouldn't budge. They seemed far too skiddish, for some reason. Something told me to look in the hen house, so I did. I was horrified to find that there were none in there. So seven were missing!!!

Like I said, I discovered several piles of feathers, so I know something got after them, and apparently had them in a frenzy. My prayer is that that's ALL that happened... that nothing actually "caught" them and ate them. I'm praying they're just taking shelter somewhere until daylight. It breaks my heart to pieces to think that something could have happened to them. These are my "children", and I've sooooo enjoyed them, especially this past several weeks. It's so relaxing, and truly very special to me, being able to come home and watch them. As crazy as it sounds, I've come to know their different personalities. They really are like children, and for someone who said they didn't want anything to do with them, when Steve first mentioned getting them, I've sure done a complete turn-around. I've grown to love them, so again, I'm asking that you please pray that they're alright, and that they'll come home in the morning. I'll sure be up watching & waiting for them, when they do!

Thank you for your prayers. I will update you tomorrow on what transpires. Please be praying until then.

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Down On the Farm

I just LOVE Spring! It's my absolute favorite time of year! The flowers are blooming, the trees are budding. Everything is green again.... coming back to life after the dreadful winter months. We get back out in the yard, sprucing up the flower beds, adding little touches of the beautiful colors of the season. And for some of us, we get our gardens planted. We did that several weeks ago, and thankfully, it's coming up nicely now.

We planted squash, cucumbers, tomatoes, ceyenne peppers, bell peppers, jalapeno peppers, banana peppers (Can you tell we like peppers?), roma beans, speckled butterbeans, corn, watermelon, cantaloupe, and peanuts. Now that everything's planted, I absolutely LOVE watching it grow! I try to go out every day (or atleast every couple of days) to monitor... or rather, to "marvel" at how much they've grown since the last time I was out there.


This is the first time I've planted peanuts, so I'm tickled to pieces at what a "pretty" plant they are. I was so excited last weekend, when I saw that they were breaking the ground. Now, they're coming up rather quickly, thanks to some much-needed rain the good Lord sent us last weekend.

It never ceases to amaze me at how something as simple as "planting a garden" can tell the story of Jesus, if we look at it just right. Let me explain...

We all know about the death, burial, and resurrection of our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Right? Well, my garden tells about all three. First of all, think about where a seed comes from. In all reality, that seed came from the "death" of that particular vegetable (or fruit), because once the vegetable or fruit was picked from the plant, there was no more "life" flowing in it; so therefore, it was "dead". (In this, I am reminded of Jesus' death. God's Word tells us that He bled and died for our sins.)

You can take that seed and "bury" it in the ground, where it remains for a certain amount of time. (This reminds me of Jesus' burial. His body was placed in a tomb, where it stayed until the 3rd day.)

Then, one day soon, the ground begins to break and there appears a sprout coming forth. It's a miracle! That "dead" seed we planted is now "alive" again! (To me, it's a reminder of how Jesus broke the chains of death, when He arose from the tomb.)

I get goose bumps, just thinking about my garden portraying the resurrection story, right before my eyes! What precious blessings God gives to us in the little things of life! Unfortunately, we often miss these blessings, because we don't take the time to see them with spiritual eyes. All too often, we choose only to see with our earthly eyes. That's an area in which we all need to be more watchful.

Anyway, like my garden, my "little darlings" are growing pretty fast, too! (That would be my chickens, for those who don't know.) The boys (Bingo and Colonel) are getting along, despite everyone's warnings about raising them together. And my girls (Oprah, Violet, Daisy, Rose, Lily, Dahlia, Petunia, and Pansy) are laying better than ever! We're averaging about 6 or 7 eggs per day now.


I so enjoy watching them, especially in the evenings, when I let them out for an hour or so before dusk. They each have their own unique personality, and it's sometimes hilarious, how they interact with one another... and other creatures of nature.


Take Abby, for instance. She somehow knows how much I love the garden, so she's stepped up to bat, taking on the role of *Garden Security*.
She faithfully patrols the rows, keeping the chickens away from our harvest-to-be. I didn't ask her to do it. She simply volunteered for the position. And the chickens "mind" her very well!


Speaking of the chickens' different personalities... Miss Rose seems to think she's an acrobat. She walks the tight-rope back and forth, over and over again. (Okay, so it's not really a tight-rope... it's actually a piece of galvanized conduit, that I placed in their "play-yard" for them to sit on. So far, Rose is the only one I've seen on it, and like I said, she doesn't SIT on it... she walks it... back and forth, over and over again. (I hope she isn't planning to leave me and join the circus!)

Steve built a really nice hen-house for them. I've "remodeled" it for them twice already, and Lord willing, I plan to do so again tomorrow. I look at other hen-houses online and if there's an improvement I can make for them, I want to try to do so. As the old saying goes... "If the ladies are happy, then we're ALL happy." LOL

Well, I suppose that's enough "news" for now. It's late and I need a few winks before a busy, busy day tomorrow (today, now).

God bless!

P.S. Here's a quick slideshow, so you can see each of my feathered friends. Aren't they sweet?

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Pondering The Good Ol' Days

Do you sometimes get "homesick", and find yourself going through old photo albums, in an attempt to recapture some of your favorite childhood memories? Well, occasionally, I do just that... and when I do, I'm usually caught somewhere between being teary-eyed, and laughing until my insides hurt. But it's a good kind of pain... this reminiscing into the past. It brings to mind all those silly (and often embarrassing) moments, growing up.

I've done alot of "revisiting" lately to my old home church, back home in Spartanburg. My super-sweet eternal friend, Stephanie, has caught me up on the folks I spent much of my childhood with... my teachers, my girl friends, my one and only "crush" (who shall forever remain nameless). It's been great to hear how everyone's doing, what they've all been up to for the past 25 years or so. My, how time flies!

I've also been thinking alot about Mama, and of my little brother ("Buck") and me, as we were growing up. It amazes me to think of how little we had back then; yet, at the same time, how MUCH we had! Truly, things were a lot different in those days, before the world became so.... well, "worldly"!

It didn't cost a thing, other than some sacrificial time and energy, for us to do "family outings" together. I recall how we spent many a rainy afternoons on the front porch, playing a "match-the-number " game (home-made cards cut from empty cereal or tea boxes). Mama wouldn't dare let us have a deck of cards in the house, so that's how we played card games! That's a far contrast to the many gambling establishments and casino boats/hotels that are popping up all over the place now... not to mention the LOTTERY our state now sponsors!

Mama somehow got to be a DSS worker (AKA "the neighborhood babysitter"), despite her age and ill-health. All the kids would gather at our house, so it was expected that she'd have plenty of Kool-Aid on hand... and in return, she'd share a Bible Story with them, and we'd always invite them to church with us on Sunday. We didn't have to have a special occasion like "Friend Day" or a free meal to rustle up some friends to take to church with us. They came simply because we asked... anytime! (Oh, to have that again!)

I remember, too, how Mama also carried the title of "Family Doctor". Whenever we were sick or hurting, no matter what ailed us, she was always "on call", praying for us, first of all... then doctoring us up with much love, and whatever medicine we had, if needed. She seemed to always know just what to do to make it all better. (Nowadays, parents are so quick to rush their children to the doctor's office, where they end up paying a fortune, only to receive an antibiotic that doesn't work any longer, because their child's system has grown immune to it, due to taking so much of it.) If only parents would lay hands on their children and pray for them today, as Mama did for us back then! (I bet the crime rate would decrease tremendously, as a result, as well!)

I used to think we had it so hard, growing up. We didn't have nearly the things (or rather, the "material things") that other kids had. We were raised by our Grandmother, so there again, I felt (at the time) we were missing out on the "normal" parent/child relationship. Was there anything we had, of any value??

Of course, in the years since, I've come to understand what truly mattered most... and that we, indeed, DID possess it. We had a loving, mature, GODLY woman bring us up in the nuture and admonition of the Lord! She taught us about Jesus, raised us in church, taught us right from wrong. Granted, we didn't always do what she instructed us to do. And many of the things she warned us against... unfortunately, sometimes we didn't steer clear from them. But she did her part in providing what meant the most... and that was in paving our walk with the Lord.

This past Sunday being Mother's Day, I've had her on my mind so much more this week. Though it's been over 10 years now, I still miss her terribly sometimes. But I cherish the thought of her being with Jesus now, and if I know her, she's probably looking after my little ones up there in Heaven. What a sweet thought!

I look around, and see the disrespect, disobedience, out-right defiant attitudes and behavior of kids today... especially those who seem to "have everything". It seems it's the children who are ruling the parents, anymore. And it makes me wish I'd appreciated what I had back then, because even though it may have seemed that I was poor... I was richly blessed in many ways. I thank God for granting me this priviledge of being raised by my Godly grandmother. I don't know where I'd be today, had it not been for her prayers and loving care for me back then.

Anyway, as I mentioned earlier, I've been looking through some old photographs lately. I wanted to share a few of them with you. The expressions and hairstyles are hilarious, but they bring back some of my absolute favorite childhood memories... times when things were simple, before the burdens of modern life today. Enjoy!

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Spend Wisely

I was intrigued by an interesting church-sign this evening. It read...

Life is like a coin. You can spend it however you wish. But the fact remains, you can only spend it once.

It seems I've been thinking ALOT lately about the years I spent away from the Lord. Or should I say, away from His Will. In doing so, I find that I'm all the more thankful for God's bountiful grace and mercy upon my life. There's absolutely nothing I did to deserve it. The fact is, I don't deserve it! Yet, He's poured out His goodness in more ways than I can even begin to mention here. That's for sure!

But the more I think about this church sign, the more I realize how very true its message is. We're each given this amazing gift called life. We only have one chance at it (here on earth). Yet, sadly, we waste so much of it! We "spend" it in all the wrong ways, in all the wrong places, and sometimes even with all the wrong people. That's my life in a nutshell... before I came back to the Lord.

Unfortunately, there are many who never realize their need of Christ in their life. They never come to the point of accepting His gift of salvation. They never enjoy the benefits of the Holy Spirit dwelling within their heart... that peace, joy, and love that can only come from Him. They never know the privilege of serving Jesus Christ, Who gave His life so they could live. They never share the blessings of fellowship with other believers.

What a sad, sad picture of how so many choose to "spend" their lives!

As I said earlier, that was my life... before I came back to the Lord. I was living life the way I wanted to live it. I gave no thought nor care for how He wanted me to live.

But even so, once I realized the error of my way and repented, He was ready and willing to wipe the slate clean. He forgave me, and He never brought my past up again... ever.

My favorite verse of Scripture is 2 Corinthians 5:17, which affirms the truth of what He did for me...

"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things passed away; behold, all things are become new."

So you see, while the message on the church sign is accurate, on an earthly perspective... I'm so thankful it's a completely different story, spiritually. No matter how we "spend" our lives, nor how much of it we "waste", He's always there... ready and willing to forgive us and to wipe the slate clean. We have His Word on it!

Don't ever think that you, or someone you love, is a "lost cause". There's no such thing in God's eyes. He died for each and every one of us, all the same. No matter what we've done, nor where we've been. The only thing He's concerned about is where we're going. He wants us to come to Him. He's made it possible. All we have to do is believe... in Him... Who He is... what He did... and why.

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish but have everlasting life." - John 3:16

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." - Romans 10:9,10

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It's All About Forgiveness

Some of you already know that I was adopted by my grandmother (a wonderful Godly woman), who was "Mama" to my little brother and me. I didn’t have a relationship with my birth-mom until I was practically grown, and even then... up to now, even, it’s been the same ol’ same ol’, as in my entire childhood. She might want to be "Mom" today, but then decide not to be, the next day. It’s rediculous, I know, and there has been much, much pain involved, because of it. I forgive and try to forget, yet history repeats itself over and over again.

The same was true again yesterday. When I called my aunt to check on my uncle, who is in the hospital, on life-support (he is my birth-mom’s brother), I was told she was there at the hospital, so I asked to speak with her. My aunt tried to get her to the phone, but she refused. Like I said, history repeats itself.

The ironic thing is that her birthday is this coming Saturday, and I had just mailed her a card. It hadn’t had time to get there yet, of course, but in it, I simply told her that I loved her, and that I was praying for her.

For many years, I’ve caught alot of slack from people who say I shouldn’t have anything at all to do with her. But I don’t believe that’s the way I need to be towards her. My Bible teaches me that we are to bless those who hurt us (Luke 6:28). We are to love our enemies (Matt. 5:44; Luke 6:27,35). We are to forgive (Matt. 6:14,15; 18:35; Mark 11:25,26; Luke 6:37).

In all honesty, isn’t that what Christ did for us? Before we were saved, we weren’t His children. We weren’t considered "friends of God" then. So what’s the opposite of "friend"? Ahhhaa... "enemy".

So until we became Christians... born-again believers... we were enemies of God. Yet, look at what He did for us, regardless. Romans 5:8 tells us that even while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

So while the Bible also teaches us that we are to love one another as He loved us (John 15:12), why then should we feel like we’re above doing what He, Himself, did?? We shouldn’t! And that’s my reply to all those who disapprove of my trying to have a relationship with my birth-mom, despite what she has or hasn’t done.

I ask today that you join me in praying for her. (Her name is Sandra.) I fully believe that God has a plan for her life, as much as for mine, and He’s given me a burden to see her live for Him. I’ve seen the Lord work great and mighty things, in and around this crazy situation. Let me explain...

The Lord brought us in contact again in November 2005, after about 2 years of no contact whatsoever. (Again, with this "cycle"!). About 3 months later, she called me and told me of my step-dad’s having been diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver, and that the doctors said he only had a few weeks to live. Well, immediately my husband and I (and my infant nephew, who was living with us at the time) went up there to visit, with the sole purpose of leading him to Christ, before it was too late. (We were determined.)

As satan always does, when one attempts to free someone else from their eminent eternal torment in hell, he provided absolutely every possible distraction and hinderance to our "mission". Everything from phone calls, visits, my step-dad’s extreme fatigue and falling asleep mid-sentence... you name it, we fought it.

It was getting late, and after yet another visitor came by (and didn’t want to leave), we were so frustrated that we were the ones who left. My birth-mom walked us downstairs and saw us off, and we got about 3 blocks away, before the Holy Spirit stopped us, and reminded us of why we had driven 5 hours to get there in the first place, and urged us to go back. My husband stayed downstairs with the baby, and I went back up. I told the visitors I had something to talk to my step-dad about, and they were welcome to stay and hear it, or they could leave. But either way, I was gonna do what I came there to do. (Of course, the visitors left... and threw the gospel tracts I had given them on the floor of the elevator, too, I might add).

I began by telling him how much the Lord had done in my life, and all that He’d delivered me from. And how wonderful it was, knowing that all my sins had been forgiven, and that I knew I’d spend eternity in Heaven when I died. I then shared with him my burden for his eternal security. I went through the whole plan of salvation, taking him through the Romans Road. He didn’t fuss or complain, and miraculously, he did stay awake through all of it. But still, he had this look, as if to say, "That’s nice, little girl." I could almost sense him wanting to pat me on the head, to patronize me.

He was tough. There was definitely a wall there, but just before the point of giving up, I saw his whole countenance change. As I continued on with how much I wanted to leave there (knowing that I wouldn’t see him alive again) with the assurance that I would see him in Heaven, I watched this grizzly bear transform into a teddy bear. He broke down, and then I led him in a sinner’s prayer, where he asked Jesus to come into his heart. The Lord had performed a miracle right before my very eyes, and allowed me to be used in it. What a blessing!

The devil, of course, will always cause one to doubt anything the Lord does, so as we drove down the highway about an hour or so later, thoughts began to trouble me... that maybe he didn’t really mean it... maybe he was just trying to get me to shut up and get out of there.

But God... as always... is right on time, to cast away those doubts. He placed in the sky before me the most beautiful, complete rainbow. It was as if He gave me a sign to show me that it WAS real. I managed to get a picture of it, and I remember praising God for both gifts, that day.

Thirteen days later, my step-dad died. And because of the Holy Spirit working in our hearts that day, causing us to "go back and finish what we came for", I have never doubted where he might be today. I know he is in Heaven, and I’m so thankful for that assurance.

So you see, God does have a plan for my birth-mom’s life... despite all the pain and sorrow of the past (and present). He’s placed within me a burden to teach her in the ways of the Lord. She’s already witnessed His hand at work, and I’m confident that He will do a miracle in her life, as well.

Again, please join me in praying for her. Whether she ever wants to have a real relationship with me or not, that doesn’t matter. What truly does matter is that she has a real relationship with Christ. That’s the desire of my heart... for her, and for so many others in my family, whom I love.... and most importantly, whom the LORD loves.

Life is indeed complicated sometimes, but even so... I belong to Jesus, so as long as He's by my side, it doesn't matter who else is or isn't.

Thank you for your prayers. God bless you!

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Turning Point

As a few of you already know, I got some bad news this week. While reading the obituaries in my hometown paper (online), I saw the name of someone very familiar to me... though it was someone whom I hadn’t seen in many, many years. Back in my wandering days, when I was out in the world, living a life very displeasing to the Lord, there was a group of people I spent a great deal of time with... drinking, partying together. The man whose obituary I read was one of those people.

In fact, I had a particular fondness for him back then, because right after I first met him, he "saved me" from getting caught by the police, drinking in a bar (yes, I was under-age). When he saw them coming in, he quickly grabbed the beer from my hand and took it for his own. To my knowledge, they never suspected that I had been drinking. That act of kindness was always remembered, because I’ve known others who actually were caught later on, and the authorities didn’t go too easy on them. I was always grateful I had been spared that trouble with the law.

But anyway, my first response upon reading his obituary was, "Oh my, I hope he got saved since I last saw him." I reasoned that in 20 years or so, it is possible, after all. Oh, how I hoped that was the case!

I was curious as to how he had died, since there was no mention of an illness or anything. I looked through the previous few days’ articles, and saw nothing about an accident that claimed a life. I couldn’t shake my curiosity, so I then did a search with his name. To my horror, I found three articles which detailed the circumstances behind his death. He had been drinking with a friend on Monday night (at the friend’s house), and they got into an argument. That friend then shot him in the head, which killed him instantly.

I can’t tell you the thoughts that ran through my head upon reading this awful news. The hope that he had gotten saved and turned his life around suddenly died, as if right along with him. Then the guilt set in.

I began thinking of all the opportunities I had, to share the good news of Jesus Christ with him... but didn’t. I began to recall all the means I had available to contact him in the years since, even if it wasn’t face-to-face. I could have written, I could have called. I could have found SOME WAY to let him know about the change that Jesus had made in my life, and about how Jesus wanted to do the same thing in his life, as well. I should have shared Jesus with him. But instead, I kept Him all to myself. And because of that, I felt my friend’s blood was on my hands.

Thankfully, God has placed some pretty wonderful people in my life, who give me Godly wisdom, and remind me of what Scripture says, when I need it. One special friend, in particular, reminded me that God doesn’t give someone "just one chance" at salvation, and that if one person doesn’t share with them, He will send someone else to fulfill His purpose. But even so, ultimately, it’s up to the hearer as to whether or not he/she receives it.

I had a rough couple of days with this, but I can now say I’ve reached a turning point. Although I am still so very saddened at my old friend’s apparent eternal loss, I am all the more grateful for where the Lord has brought me from. And it’s made me all the more determined to reach those who’ve either never heard the gospel, or who have strayed away from the things of the Lord, as I did, all those years ago.

There is a goal, and we must all strive to achieve it in the time we have here on earth. None of us are promised tomorrow, so none of us can afford to put off today what needs to be taken care of, in light of where we (or those we know and love) spend eternity. Indeed, today is the day of salvation!

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Childhood Memories & Regrets

(As posted on my MySpace page last night)...

I guess I’ve been feeling somewhat nostalgic lately, largely due to my coming in contact with "long lost" family and friends again, after such a vast separation. (It’s funny how the Lord works in our lives, and brings to fruition those inner desires of our hearts. What a blessing!)

But anyway, as I’ve looked through online photos and old family photo albums, I’ve been thinking quite a bit about all those distant childhood memories (and people), some that I hadn’t thought about in several years. It’s been quite a journey, this stroll down Memory Lane. There are, of course, happy memories which make me smile. But then, too, there are the sad (even tragic) memories that bring on the tears. Either way, the trip is well-worth it, because as I eluded to earlier, the Lord has allowed this to come to pass for a reason. I believe that with all my heart. And I trust and pray GOOD things will come out of this, for HIS glory.

One of my cousins that I’ve recently come in contact with again... I’ve really had her on my heart ever since. She’s a number of years younger than me. In fact, it’s her older sister who’s the same age as me. But she (the younger one) used to come and spend the night with me quite a bit, growing up. I can remember how she often spent the night on Saturday, so she was able to come to church with us on Sunday morning. I loved that (as did she), because I got to fix her hair all pretty... sometimes with curls and/or ribbons. I got to "dress her up" in something I still had in my closet that was too small for me, but maybe just a tad bit big on her. For whatever length of time she was with us, she was like "my own little girl", at least that’s the way I saw it, anyway. Oh, how I enjoyed that!

In the years of time since then, somehow I feel like I failed "my little girl". I, myself, didn’t always walk the chalk-line. There were about 10 years or so (roughly) that I was out of church, beginning in those latter teen years. There were many things I did during that time, that I shudder to even think about today. What shame there is in looking back on my sin!

But as I do take that journey, I can’t help but think about those others whom my sin affected. I think of my own little brother, for instance. He NEEDED his sister... his only sister... to help him during his critical decision-making years. Yet, where was she? I was out in the world, doing my own thing, living life to the fullest. (What I didn’t realize until after-the-fact, was that no matter how "good" the good times were, life WASN’T its fullest. That was just one of those lies from the devil himself. Life isn’t at its fullest unless you’re walking in close communion with Christ! That’s REAL fullness!)

So not only did my sin alter my own life, but it also ultimately affected my brother’s life, as well. I look now at all the problems and struggles he’s had (and has), and I can see how differently things could be today, had I not gone out on my own expedition, leaving him totally to fin for himself. I could have truly been a "big sister" by helping him make good choices... the number one choice being, to live a life surrendered to and sold out to Christ! (If that’s there, everything else falls easily into place.)

I could also have helped him by giving him the encouragement he so needed, rather than constantly criticizing him for choices I didn’t necessarily agree with, over the years. What a difference that, in itself, would have made!

But as I mentioned, it wasn’t just my brother who my sin afftected. I think about my cousin, who I, on some level, considered for many years to be "my own little girl". I think about the difference there might be today in some of her choices, had my own choices been made more sensibly. What an awesome position I was in for all those years as we were growing up, to guide her and teach her the things of the Lord! I can remember how I used to take she and the other children outside, and do Bible Stories with them. Perhaps if I had continued on the right course myself, she nor I would have made the mistakes we’ve each made in the years since.

I think about she and my brother, and it truly breaks my heart. WHAT A FAILURE I AM, for abandoning the life that Christ meant for me to live!!! Even if for just a little while (or for 10 years, to be exact), so much damage was done! Those whom I loved dearly suffered (and are still suffering) because I was disobedient to God’s Word. I fell away from the life God had intended for me, and it became a chain reaction, that now affects so many others, as well.

I don’t know how to "fix" it now, other than to pray continuously for each of them, which I’m now committed to doing. I would love to see them living the abundant life God purposed for them. I do pray they see how much they are loved... by me, of course, but most of all, by our Heavenly Father. Once anyone truly "sees" HIS love, it’s hard to see anything else, despite what the devil may throw at us.

I am praying.

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She's Alive!

Okay, for those of you who have threatened to send flowers for my funeral, let me just say I've had good reason not be on here for a while. I AM alive, thank the good Lord! It's just been a very busy time. I've had work, studies, ministry involvement (including a *new* ministry in which I've begun, which I'll tell you more about later)... so many things going on all at once, that I just haven't found the time needed to post things here, as I'd like.

I HAVE thought about you, though, and have almost completely filled a little notepad, with tidbits and nuggets that I'd like to share with you here. But as Ecclesiastes 3:1 so simply but eloquently says, "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." So let's all practice patience, and then Lord willing, I'll begin the sharing process very soon. =)

As I mentioned, I've recently begun a new ministry (literally, "began" it), which has been a burden on my heart for some time. I'm amazed at how faithful our Lord continually proves to be, at granting us the desires of our hearts, when we diligently seek Him. What a wonderful God we serve!

So anyway, be blessed, and oh yeah... please be in prayer for my Pastor. He had eye surgery two weeks ago (two surgeries, actually... cataract, and also a lens implant). The lens, however, hasn't seemed to want to attach itself to his eye like it's supposed to do, so he's been ordered to lay flat on his back (4 different times now), and it was to the point that they were ready to re-do the surgery today, had it not shown improvement today, from yesterday. He's not one for sitting (much less "laying") still for too long, so he's like a fish out of water. He has to go back to Charleston again tomorrow, so please pray that there will be significant improvement, and that he'll soon be released from this "confinement", as he calls it.

I will say, he did surprise us all at church on Sunday. He was supposed to be at home in bed (Dr.'s orders), but he was going nuts, so he came and delivered the 11:00 message, which was a great blessing to each of us, as well as to him. He said it did him good to be in God's house, amongst God's people, especially after having missed several services. Amen to that! It truly was a blessing, and the message he delivered indeed spoke to MY heart. He had no idea what's been going on in my life lately... but God did. Again, I'm just in awe of God's faithfulness!

I'll be back on soon. Got lots to share, but gotta run for now!

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Snow Days

I was so blessed to have my niece and nephew with me this weekend. I got them on Saturday morning, and kept them until Sunday evening. We had the best time! We played every board game imaginable (or at least that's the way it seemed), all the while laughing and playing, and just enjoying our time together.

I made it a point not to have to go out, the entire time we had them. For one thing, it was quite yucky out... a cold, cold rain falling the entire day. And too, I stay "on the go" so much, I didn't want to dare do any of that "going" while I had the kids. This time was too precious to me!

I did get out and vote early on Saturday, (before picking the kids up) but was disappointed in how it turned out, once all the ballots were counted. Let's not go there now. [happy thoughts, happy thoughts]

Anyway, the kids and I (and Uncle Steve, too, of course) packed as much fun into a 2-day weekend as we possibly could. They had gotten new Bibles for Christmas, along with a wonderful Bible Story book, so we spent some time learning more about some of my favorite childhood Bible characters... Sampson, David, Queen Esther, and Ruth. They really enjoyed that... almost as much as I did. :)

One thing that made it so much fun was that we were anticipating some snowfall. Though it was raining throughout the day, the forecast was calling for snow later on. We talked to my Uncle back home in Spartanburg, and it was already falling there. We kept switching the TV to the Weather Channel, to see how long it might be before the snow would arrive. (Unfortunately, it never came... at least not here.) I got tickled at Skylar, because she even got out of bed around 11:30 and wanted to look outside to see if had snowed.

The kids got to come to church with us yesterday, which was a HUGE blessing. These are the kids I led to the Lord, back in October, but due to their situation at home, they don't get to go to church. So this was an answer to prayer, for me... and for them. Aren't they adorable?
I spoke with their mom on the phone after they went back home, and begged her to please make a proper home for them, and to let them go to church.

I did get some pics from the snow back home this weekend. My, how homesick I get, just looking at them! Winter is gonna be gone before we know it, and I would love to see some snow falling, and be able to play in it just once before Spring comes. Maybe the Lord will send us some. But if He chooses not to, I'll just keep looking at these pictures. [sigh]

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New Year's Blessings

I hope the new year has been good to you. Personally, I can say it's been fabulous to me. Of course, there are (and always will be) those daily bumps in the road, but all in all, I am so very blessed. ["Thank You, Lord!"]

One thing in particular that I'm especially blessed by is that a few days ago, I received a message from a childhood friend of mine. Not just any friend, but one whom I considered my "best friend" for many years, growing up. She and I went to church together, then later to school together, as well. Her parents were like my 2nd parents. I used to LOVE spending time at her house, when I was little... whether spending the night, or just going home with her after church on Sunday. Sometimes I'd even pretend her family was "my" family.

But anyway, she and I hadn't been in touch for several years. Although I've thought about her so many times, and could very easily have picked up the phone and called her (I still remember their phone number from memory, after all these years... and yes, it's still the same number.), I never did. I suppose mostly out of shame, for some of the roads I've traveled on in the years since I last saw them. I was sure this family whom I loved so, would never have approved of some of the choices I've made in my life. And therefore, they wouldn't want to have any part of me, now. That was my reasoning, atleast.

It's funny that even though I had long since gotten back on the right track, the shame of those past sins still had a way of keeping me from enjoying the abundant life God intended for me. Now I'm reminded of the importance of forgiving ourselves. I was talking with someone about that very thing, just the other day. Of course, at that time, I was encouraging her to do it. I wasn't in any way thinking I needed to apply it to myself, at that time. Isn't it funny how the Lord teaches us things, sometimes? :)

Well anyway, back to my childhood friend... after she had sent me the initial message, I quickly replied. Then she responded again, and again. Before I knew it, we had filled one another in on everything that's happened in our lives, since our last contact with one another. It was wonderful! She was even kind enough to update me on some of our church family, from years ago. I don't mean that she was gossiping... not at all. It wasn't like that. She was just letting me know who was still there, who had moved away, who had passed away, who had gotten married and how many kids they have. It was great to hear this type of update. I'd been away from there for so long, I've often wondered about these folks, whom had meant so much to me in my early years. Now I don't have to wonder. Thanks to my dear friend, I now know.

Sadly, there was also some bad news, amongst the good. My friend's father went home to be with the Lord, early last year. I wish I had known, so I could've been there for her, and the rest of her family, during their loss. I would gladly have gone up and helped out in any way I could.

Then, too, she told me about one of our childhood friends, whom had died of a drug overdose sometime back. That truly breaks my heart! I never would have guessed it, not him. But then, as I think back on my own life, and all the things I got myself entangled with during those "wandering years", I realize how easy it is for one to get off-course. Anywhere the devil can get a foot in the door, so to speak, he will eventually wreak havoc in our lives, if we allow him.

But as I think about our friend who died this way, it makes me all the more determined to help others get the help they so need, when they lose their way. Whether it's drugs, or alcohol, or just whatever their stronghold might be, it's so very important for folks to realize the stem of the problem BEFORE it gets out of hand. We know that satan himself is the stem of the problem, but it's not like he just walks up to our front door and says, "Hi, I'm the devil and I'm here to wreck your life." (If only he would be so upfront!) No, he slithers in, sometimes so discreetly that we don't realize he's even there until he's already done the damage. That's what I want to help prevent!

That's what all of us who work in the RUI program (Reformers Unanimous International Addictions Program) want to prevent, because we know God can (and wants to) deliver us from any and all strongholds! No one has to be bound! There IS a way out of it! That's what our program is all about! And like I said, upon thinking of my childhood friend, who apparently was bound by those chains of drugs, I'm just all the more determined to reach out to those whose lives are being torn apart by satan, regardless of the tool he's using to do it. God can deliver, and He can restore whatever the devil has robbed us of!

You can find a Reformers Unanimous meeting near you, by following the above link. There are over 500 chapters nationwide, and there are already some chapters worldwide.

So anyway, as we begin this new year, I feel more and more drawn to the wonderful verse that I claimed as my very own, when I came back to the Lord in 1997. Sometimes we are held captive by our past sins, not willing to forgive ourselves, where we've erred. But that's not God's Will. He forgave us, so why should we think we're any more important than Him? We're not!

Praise God for 2 Corinthians 5:17, which says, "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."

I can't think of a better new year's blessing than that!

I heard a song on the way to church this morning, one that I used to listen to quite frequently, but had actually "forgotten" about. Anyway, upon hearing it again this morning, I thought it very fitting to add to this post. Please open your hearts to "hear" the words, and be blessed!

There once was a woman who came to a well,
seeking relief for her thirst.
Everyone knew of her bad reputation.
She was considered the worst.
But that day she found more than just water.
She met the "Hope of the World".
She left town with one name,
won't they be surprised at what she says when she returns?

My new name is "Sanctified and Holy"
Just call me the "Righteousness of God"
I'm now known as "New Creation"
My nickname is "Covered by the Blood"
When hell calls me "Bound by my Past"
God calls me "Free at Last"
Nothing's the same, everything's changed
I've got my new name.

My friends used to call me by so many names,
I hardly remember them all.
A "two-fisted drinker", the "life of the party"
were some of the names I recall.
But after I made my trip to the altar,
my old way of living has changed.
I know what I was, but I know who I am
and nothing about me's the same.

'Cause my new name is "Sanctified and Holy"
Just call me the "Righteousness of God"
I'm now known as "New Creation"
My nickname is "Covered by the Blood"
When hell calls me "Bound by my Past"
God calls me "Free at Last"
Nothing's the same, everything's changed
I've got my new name.

(Written by Jeff R. Steele, Recorded by The Steeles, 2002)

Amen!

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Christmas 2007

Well, I hope you've had a wonderful Christmas Day, one filled with many blessings from above. Today, throughout all our festivities, I was thinking about all the things I've been blessed with this year. I'm sad to say, there have been many blessings I've taken for granted. Yet God remains faithful, still. He's given me far more than I've ever deserved, and continually shows His love for me, despite my failures and shortcomings.

For Christmas, we spent time with "my" family last night, and did presents with the kids (my brother's children) then. They're such sweet kids, and always so happy with whatever they get, no matter how big or small. By the time we left, I was broken to tears for them... because of their home situations. Please do pray for them (Thomas, Skylar, Hunter, and Jonas). The Lord knows their need, and all that's going on. And only He can work everything out. Please pray for these little ones, who are so precious to me. Pray for their parents, too, that the Lord would have His way in their lives.

This is a picture of my youngest nephew, Jonas. Isn't he handsome?

Today, we spent the day with Steve's family. One of his nephews just became a father last week, so everyone (including me) flocked around the family's newest addition. Last year at this time, Steve and I were both so heartbroken over the loss of our own baby. We didn't think we'd be holding a baby this Christmas. Even though he isn't ours, at least we do have one in the family now, and it was great to hold him in our arms, even if just for a little while. I'm so thankful that today was a good day, full of love and laughter... without any strife or conflict. You have no idea how refreshing that was, especially after yesterday!

Later on, Steve surprised me by treating me to something we've never done before... a movie. He had heard me say that I wanted to see the Chipmunk movie, so he made it happen after we left his brother's house tonight. It was really sweet of him, and we both laughed all through the movie... which again, was much-needed. The only thing that could've made it any better was if Thomas and Skylar had been there with us. [sigh]

Well, again, I pray you've had a wonderful Christmas. We all have so much to be thankful for! Please continue to pray for those whose Christmas hasn't been so bright this year. If at all possible, reach out to them and show them someone cares. Most of all, show them how much God cares for them.

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A Christmas Message

"When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy."

Matthew 2:10

Steve and I decided that we'd send out Christmas letters this year, instead of our usual Christmas cards. I wanted to make something special to send out to all our family and friends; not so much about its appearance, but more about the message to be included in it.

In light of events pointing to Christ's soon return, our hearts have been heavily burdened for the souls of our lost loved ones. After hearing one of our Pastor's most stirring messages recently, regarding what we do with the time we have left on this earth, I knew I had to reach out through whatever means I possibly could, to share with them the "wake-up call" they so need. This burden kept me up into the wee hours one night, where I imagined my loved ones perishing for all of eternity in hell.
"Not the people I love! No!"


The next day, I immediately began writing the following, our Christmas letter.

Dear Family & Friends,

It’s hard to believe another year has almost come and gone! Time sure seems to fly, these days. Thankfully, though, we can say it’s been a good year. The Lord has been so good… as always, so faithful to us. We pray you’ve had a wonderfully blessed year, as well.

I don’t quite know where to begin, in summing up the whole year in just a few short paragraphs. It’s definitely been a busy year. Steve and I have continued to be heavily involved in various ministries within our church. One of which, that we’re so privileged (and proud) to be a part of, is the Reformers Unanimous Addictions Program. It’s a faith-based program, with over 500 chapters, nationwide. Our church began the RU program in February of this year, and we’re excited about the progress our participants are making. We’ve had several men and women give their hearts to the Lord, through this ministry, and it’s such a blessing to actually see their lives transforming right before our eyes. It’s not just for those who are battling alcohol, drug, or gambling addictions, but for anyone who struggles with any type of stronghold. It’s truly an amazing program, and we’re so thankful for the opportunity God has given us, to be able to work in this vital ministry.

Something else that is equally as important to us is our study of Biblical Prophecy. This year, it has taken on a whole new level of urgency, given the headlines we read and hear everyday, and how they line up with Scripture. With all that’s going on around us, both near and far, it’s become more and more evident that the Lord is soon to return. In fact, we could be flying any day now!

On that note, I was thinking about the 3 wise men earlier today, and how the Bible says they were overjoyed when they saw the star. Why were they so joyful? Because they were highly knowledgeable men, when it came to the Scriptures. They knew of Isaiah’s prophecy concerning the birth of Jesus. They had been expecting it, and they knew it was time. They had purposely gone to great lengths not to miss it.

My, what an example for each of us today! We all need to know what the Bible says… about why Jesus came to earth (then), and also about His (soon) return. We need to know about the signs of the time, so we can be ready to meet Him when He comes. We don’t want to miss it!

Like I said, I was thinking about those wise men, and how exceedingly glad they were when they finally saw what they had been looking for, for so long. I think about how we, as Christians, will be exceedingly glad when we hear Gabriel’s trumpet sound, and be taken up to meet Jesus in the sky. We ought to be eagerly anticipating that, each and every day.

Sadly, though, there’s a part of my heart not quite as anxious for that moment, as I wish it were. And that’s because I think of all our family and friends who might not be ready. I shudder to think of any of you (whether in our immediate families, or extended) spending eternity in hell, especially if we could have done or said something to change it.

Please know we’re sending this to everyone on our Christmas card list. No one is being singled out, so please don’t be offended. It’s with a heart of love that we send this, because Steve and I care about you, and your standing with God. We want you to understand that we don’t have much time left, and the time we do have, we need to spend wisely… spreading the Word and reaching our family and friends for Jesus. It truly is a matter of urgency these days. If your heart is right, praise God. We rejoice in that! But if it’s not, please humbly seek the Lord today, before it’s too late. Honestly, there’s no more time to waste!

We can’t turn on the TV anymore, without hearing of all the tragedies already taking place, as well as those that could be taking place tomorrow. In addition, our country is at an all-time low, spiritually… we’re in need of a great revival. Yet the Lord has continued to pour out His blessings upon us. Sadly, with each passing day, we seem to only grow more and more wicked. We’ve returned to the days of Noah, as the Bible foretold. We have the characteristics of Sodom and Gomorrah. God was good to them, too… until they were so wicked, He had to pour out His wrath upon them. Keep in mind that yes, He is a loving God, not willing that any should perish. But He’s also a just God, Whom will not be mocked!

Will America be next? Will the Lord return before His judgement falls upon our land? Either way, the urgency remains for each and every one of us to search our heart, and make sure it’s ready to meet the Lord. It’s definitely later than we think!

Someone made mention recently of how great it would be, to be Raptured before Christmas, and then to spend this Christmas in Heaven. That’s a wonderful thought, except for all our loved ones who aren’t yet ready.

Our prayer for each of you is that you do have the assurance of your salvation, knowing without any uncertainty that if you were to die (or if the Rapture took place) today, you’d spend eternity in Heaven. That’s our Christmas wish for all our family and friends this year! We love you and pray you have a most blessed Christmas and a wonderful New Year, should the Lord wait a little longer! We look forward to seeing you in the clouds real soon! God bless you all!

With much love,

Steve and Lois Clardy

Our prayer is that through this letter, our friends and family members will realize their need of Jesus. Without Him, none of us can get to Heaven. I think, too often, that's misunderstood. Yet, it's so simple. God loved us so much, that He sent His only Son into this world to pay the sin debt for us.

Friends, if there's any question about where you'd spend eternity, I pray you'll settle that right now. All it takes is a simple prayer, asking Jesus to forgive you of all your sins, to come into your heart. And in return, you make Him Lord of your life. Let Him lead and guide every aspect of your life. This could be your last chance. Tomorrow may be too late.

God bless you!

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