Babes With A Beatitude

The Imprint of Christ--By Linda P. Kozar

2012-01-05T20:35:00.000-08:00

Over the Christmas/New Year holidays, I took a long walk with my oldest daughter and we spotted this beautiful print of a leaf on the concrete. Often, after a rainstorm, a leaf pressed to the concrete will leach sap and form what looks like a photographic image--kind of reminiscent of a pinhole camera. Although the image, a mere stain, doesn't last for long--it is never the less, a reminder of the lovely shape of the leaf.

However, when a leaf or plant falls to the sand and is quickly covered by more sand and weighed down by even more layers, in time becomes a fossilized imprint, a mold of the leaf in sandstone or shale. The original components quickly decay away, but unlike the stain, the exquisite details of the leaf, the delicate symmetry of the plant's skeleton, the veins are visible.

Both the stain and the imprint are formed after the death of the leaf, which began as a tiny leafbud that grew and unfurled and lived it's cycle, from tender green to a final and glorious brilliant orange, red, or yellow before its fall to the earth.

Most of us would like to be remembered for achieving or accomplishing something of worth in our time here on this earth. We struggle with feelings of unimportance, of irrelevence. We seek honor and recognition. For academic achievers, there are honors and awards, for military heroes, there are metals. For notable politicians or great philantropists--statues or busts. Buildings and stadiums are dedicated to or named for people.

But in God's world, there are no unimportant or irrelevent people. The greatest heroes in the history of mankind have never received a metal or honor had the opportunity to stand before kings and presidents. Men and women who tirelessly toiled to serve and care for others, putting those needs before their own. People who gave their lives for the gospel of Christ. Believers, whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life. They will live and reign forever with the King of Kings.

So whether you have a cabinet full of trophies or a wall of certificates, the greatest honor you've ever received as a believer, is a free gift you did nothing in your own strength to attain.

We bear the image and imprint of Christ. The stain of His blood is upon our hearts, the imprint of His glory is on our lives. We are His greatest glory!

Waiting On God--by Linda Kozar

2011-12-14T19:58:00.000-08:00

"That same night he got up andtook his two wives, his two maids, and his eleven children, and crossed theford of the Jabbok.

He took them and sent them across thewadi, along with everything he owned.

Jacob was left alone; and a manwrestled with him until the break of the day."--Genesis 32:22 thru 24

Do you ever get tired of waiting for God and try tomake things happen? Do you convince yourself that God's too busy to help you,so you decide to carve out your own destiny?

You've probably heard the story before--about howJacob wrestled with the Angel of the Lord to obtain a blessing. But Jacob beganwrestling much earlier. He and his twin brother Esau, wrestled in theirmother's womb. And Jacob, whose name literally means "supplanter," or"heel grabber" was named that because he took hold of his brother'sheel as they were being born. Jacob later finagled his brother out of hisbirthright to obtain the blessing of the firstborn son. Jacob would stop atnothing to secure a personal advantage. He pursued the divine blessingdeviously and relentlessly to obtain success.

How desperate are you to obtain God's blessing?You've waited and waited on God and you're fearful that the blessing you'veprayed for will never happen. Everyone around you seems to prosper. But successalways seems to elude you. However, there is purpose in the process...and aprocess takes time.

Over the years, Jacob changed. He became a man offaith. Through trials and suffering similar deceptions, his heart turned towardGod. Now, at a desperate time in his life--the eve of meeting the brother hehad deceived and with his angry father-in-law at his heels, he sought God andGod showed Himself to Jacob face-to-face.

As they wrestled, the pre-incarnate Christ knew thatthe morning light was breaking and told Jacob to let him go. Jacob responded,"I will not let Thee go, except Thou bless me." Christ touched himand his hip went out of joint. Though in great pain, Jacob persisted in hisplea and would not give up the fight.

How about you? Are you holding on in faith orwrestling in fear?

"The whole vision has become to youlike the words of a book that is sealed, which men deliver to one who isliterate, saying, 'read this, please.' And he says, 'I cannot, for it issealed.'"--Isaiah 29:11

~*~*~*~

The Worst Christmas Gifts EVER! by Linda Kozar

2011-12-08T17:24:00.001-08:00

I lovelovelove those Target Lady commercials. That blonde-haired woman with the quirky side ponytail and Wilma Flintstone faux pearls around her neck is the epitome of an over the top power shopper in a red track suit and high heels. And crafter, dare we forget her icing creations. . .

But I have to wonder what kind of gifts the woman buys.

Really.

I suspect she's the type of woman who gives her friends and family Bedazzler kits or Bumpits, days of the week underwear (a 7-pack:), lame self-help books, toe socks or a dense fruitcake filled with petrified fruits. Have you ever been on the receiving end of some of these gifts?

I have.

Ever been the recipient of a re-gift? A toaster with a wedding card still in the box?

I have.

Ever had someone give you a gift from their house? Like a paper weight with dust on it?

But my favorite/worst Christmas gift of all time, one I will keep forever and never ever re-gift is an Heirloom Fruitcake. My friend Connie surprised me with it.

Yes, it's completely fake. There's a little booklet inside with suggested uses for the foam, faux cake. Like a doorstop or foot rest, pillow--you get the drift. And speaking of drift, my heirloom fruitcake can also serve as a flotation device.

Family and friends should know what to get us for Christmas--right? And shouldn't WE, by the same token, know inherently, perhaps intuitively, what to buy them as well? But the fact is, when we're bleary-eyed and exhausted from fighting crowds and standing in long lines all day, we somehow convince ourselves that Aunt Betty would love that Hello Kitty blanket or Cousin Tracy would adore that neon orange sale sweater. We just want the shopping to be done--the nightmare to end.

Children are quite another matter though.

If a child wants a dancing Elmo for Christmas, most parents are going to find a way to get one, even if all the local stores are out of stock. We'll go out of our way to make sure our children aren't disappointed. We want to give them their hopes and desires. There's a soft place in the heart of most adults when it comes to kids and Christmas.

I remember one year, my youngest daughter, Lauren wanted an Amazing Ally doll. I searched through five or six different stores searching in vain for one. Sold out--everywhere! So right there in Target, right in the middle of the toy aisle, I prayed and asked God to help me find an Amazing Ally doll. And guess what?

God spoke to me.

He told me to turn my cart down a particular aisle. So I did. And the minute I turned down the aisle with the Play Doh, I spotted a package wedged in between the cans of Play Doh. An Amazing Ally doll! The tears flowed. On the way to the checkout, half a dozen women stopped me to ask where I'd found the doll. They were ready to take their heels off and bolt for the toy department.

I prayed and God answered.

God did not give me a lecture about the commercialization of Christmas. He didn't chastise me for chasing after materialistic things. He answered my prayer. He knew that doll was important to me, to a little girl. Because He loves us. In fact, He loves and cares for His children far more than we could ever love and care for our own.

If you then, evil as you are, knowhow to give good gifts [gifts [a]that are to their advantage] to your children, howmuch more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask and [b]continue toask Him! Luke 11:13

If you've walked with God long enough, you know how tender-hearted and thoughful He is. The little things matter as much as the big things. And like my desire to provide my child with an Amazing Ally doll, our Father God desires to provide us, His beloved children with the desires of our heart.

Of course, sometimes our desires don't fall in line with God's Word. Every parent understands that saying no to some things is important. You wouldn't give your child a loaded gun just because they asked, would you?

We're always asking God for things.

Seriously. If it's not something of a material nature, we're asking for favor or spiritual gifts. And God hears our prayers. He loves to bless us. But the truth is, He's already given us the most precious gift we could ever receive--His one and only Son.

God won't give you anything until He gives you everything.

Jesus answered her, If you had onlyknown and had recognized God's gift and Who this is that is saying to you, GiveMe a drink, you would have asked Him [instead] and He would have given youliving water. John 4:10

Eternal life is the perfect gift. A treasure beyond comparison. It cost God everything. It costs us nothing.

But God's free gift is not at allto be compared to the trespass [His grace is out of all proportion to the fallof man]. For if many died through one man's falling away (his lapse, hisoffense), much more profusely did God's grace and the free gift [that comes]through the undeserved favor of the one Man Jesus Christ abound and overflow toand for [the benefit of] many. Romans 5:15
This year, along with the many imperfect gifts I offer to family and friends, from the Flowbee to the Slap Chop, I'm going to share the Good News about the free gift of eternal life with everyone I care about. How about you? Can I challenge you to do likewise?
'Tis the season to be holy!
Sooooo remember that. Especially when your great aunt gives you a crocheted toilet paper caddy,
or the little jewel below--sort of scary and mighty hideous.
A southern lady lamp.

Now thanks be to God for His Gift,[precious] beyond telling [His indescribable, inexpressible, free Gift]! 2Corinthians 9:15

A Home for Hephzibah--by Linda Kozar

2011-11-23T22:24:00.001-08:00

“Thoushall no longer be termed forsaken; neither shall your land any more be termed desolate: but you shall be called Hephzibah. . .”—Isaiah 62:4 NKJ

Some families come together naturally in the course oftime or planning, but other families are fitted to one another by God withgreat care--like puzzle pieces. Only He can find all the missing pieces and putthem together.

As President and CEO of a national company, Christinaworked out of an office in her spacious home. To the casual observer, she was asuccessful businesswoman who enjoyed a privileged life. There was one thingmissing however--children. Two failed marriages had produced none. “I had thisunderstanding with God, that if He wanted me to have children, He would havegiven them to me.” She shrugged, “I guessed God had other plans.”

Due to her busy work schedule, Christinedecided to hire a housekeeper to clean and cook lunch and dinner for her. Soonafter the housekeeper started however, she began to bring along her 4-year-oldniece, Hephzibah Sarah. Christine didn’t mind. The little girl seemed quietenough. But her aunt was an “old-school” disciplinarian who believed thatchildren should be seen and not heard. Christine noticed that the aunt would makethe little girl sit in a chair all day, still and quiet, as if she blended inwith the furniture.

One day, as soon as her aunt’s car pulled out of thedriveway for a trip to the grocery store, the little girl hopped out of herchair and ran into Christine’s office to ask for food. The pattern continuedover time. Whenever her aunt left to do errands, the tiny girl would scramblefrom her chair to ask for something to eat. In a meek little voice, she askedfor a strawberry or a few grapes and Christine would take her into the kitchento feed and spend time with her. The minute she heard her aunt’s car in thedriveway though, she would scurry right back to her chair.

Curious as to why her housekeeper, a motherwith a grown son and two grandchildren of her own, would take on theresponsibility of caring for her niece, Christine discovered that Sarah hadcome to her out of desperate circumstances. The youngest of nine children,“Hephzibah Sarah,” was born to a Christian family in the throes of poverty.Their mother names all nine children from Biblical figures she admired.Hephzibah Sarah, whom she named from Isaiah 62:4, was the youngest. The name,“Hephzibah,” translated from Hebrew means, “in whom is My delight.” Withthe exception of Sarah and her brother, Paul, the rest of the children wereeighteen years old and above. Sarah and Paul were the youngest, and as itturned out, the most vulnerable.

When Sarah was almost 2-1/2 years old, and herbrother Paul 5-1/2, their mother died suddenly, and their father found itdifficult to take on the responsibilities of caring for two young children. Thefamily barely scraped by financially, and then only by pooling their money witheach other to share a ramshackle place, often relying on help from theirchurch. When their father went to work every day, he left Sarah and Paul in thecare of the older girls. The young caretakers were immature and ill preparedfor such responsibilities and took care of the children in a haphazard way.

Sarah wandered the house each day, eyes sunken,hair unkempt, nearly skin and bones. Her belly was bloated, a telltale sign ofmalnutrition. Most of the time, she went without underwear or even a tee shirtto cover her. Her older brother fared somewhat better because he had learned tofend for himself, but he too was struggling.Realizing that Sarah urgently needed help,their father turned to his sister, who though reluctant at first, agreed totake care of her.

“She was stressed out in a lot of ways,” saidChristine. The aunt was caring for her brother, who was very ill, as well as anolder, mentally handicapped niece and her two children. It was hard for her tobe patient with a young child, but she tried and she made sure that Sarah wasclean, well-groomed and dressed.”

After a few days, Christine decided to ask herhousekeeper to begin serving her lunch out on the cabana by the pool. Shecasually asked if Sarah could join her. The aunt agreed. “We began to sharewonderful times together, singing and laughing.” Christine discovered that noone had ever read to Sarah, so she began to read her story after story. Sheeventually bought her a jump rope, Barbie dolls and other toys to play with.

From the beginning, Christine had noticed awhitish ring around Sarah’s mouth, but now felt bold enough to ask if she couldbring her to a pediatrician. “ The doctor knew what it was right away. He saidthat the appearance of the ring around her mouth indicated a Vitamin Ddeficiency, probably from lack of enough exposure to the sun.” Jarred by the diagnosis,Christine said, “I suddenly realized that this child had never been outside ofthe house to play.”

Worried that the child needed immediate careand intervention, Christine asked Sarah’s aunt if she could be Sarah’s“Godmother.” The aunt readily agreed, so she immediately enrolled her in apre-kindergarten daycare center. Later, Christine asked permission to enrollSarah in gymnastics and ballet classes. Once again, her aunt agreed. Since Sarah’s ballet classes were inthe evening, she was allowed to spend the night over Christine’s house. Shequietly changed her guest bedroom into a little girl’s room, complete withcomforter and dolls. Sarah loved it.

In her kitchen one day, Christine began tothink about her earlier understanding with God. “I had always said, If Godwanted me to have a child, He would have given me one. Suddenly, there was thisbig, neon sign going off in my head. Hehad given me one…and she was sitting right in from of me at my kitchen table!”

Her thoughts seemed to be confirmed one daywhile driving, when Sarah spoke from her car seat in the back.

“I been thinking since I’ve been looking for a nicemommy with a big house, that youought to be my mommy. That way,” she added, “you won’t have to be aloneanymore.”

Christine, overcome with emotion, had no more doubts. Shedecided to visit Sarah and Paul’s father. “That August, I finally met himface-to-face. He was a nice man who just seemed to be beaten down by theworld.”

He told her, “I promised their mother before she died thatI would do right by the little ones.I can tell you’re a nice lady. Please take Sarah and don’t let her forget herfamily.”

The man allowed Christine to adopt his daughter Hephzibah Sarah and heallowed his son Paul to stay with a foster family for a while. However, Paul was happy to return when conditions improved at home.

“People tell Sarah how lucky she is to have found anew mother like me,” said Christine, “but I disagree with that. I’m the luckyone. I know that God has something special in mind for Sarah and I’m blessed tobe a part of her life.”

God heard the desire of a prayerful woman’sheart to be a mother, and the desperate need of a lonely little girl for one.Now they are a family, fitted together by God—a match truly made in Heaven.

Earthquakes and the End Times--by Linda Kozar

2011-11-09T08:32:00.000-08:00

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, "it is estimated that there are 500,000 detectable earthquakes in the world each year. 100,000 of those can be felt, and 100 of them cause damage. Each year the southern California area has about 10,000 earthquakes. Most of them are so small that they are not felt. Only several hundred are greater than magnitude 3.0, and only about 15-20 are greater than magnitude 4.0. If there is a large earthquake, however, the aftershock sequence will produce many more earthquakes of all magnitudes for many months.

The prevalence of so many small quakes and tremors explains why Californians seem to take their rumblings in stride. But for the rest of the United States, and the world for that matter, earthquakes are a serious concern. Is there a rise in seismic activity in accordance with End Times prophecy or are earthquakes simply reported in a more accurate matter than in years past. A Christian would probably say 'yes' there are more earthquakes. A scientist however, would tell quote from scientific data and reassure you that earthquakes occur with great frequency all over the world.

Have you ever wondered what people in the ancient world thought about earthquakes? The Bible records many quakes, but some earthquakes are more than just natural occurances. In fact, God used earthquakes as a wake-up call for people to repent of their sinful ways, and to serve as warnings for impending judgment.

Many people are experiencing a sense of foreboding--a call to intercession and intensified prayer. Are these feelings spurred by a perceived increase in natural and man-made disasters, or are these feelings more the quickening of the Holy Spirit warning us of things to come? Perhaps both? We would do well to study the historical and spiritual implications of earthquakes.

Bible Quakes

Mount Sinai

Exodus 19:18 "Now all the people perceived the thunderings and the lightenings and the noise of the trumpet and the smoking mountain, and as (they) looked they trembled with fear and fell back and stood afar off." The first biblical account of earthquake activity begins here. God is on the mountain. The mountain trembles and the people tremble as well.

Hebrews 12:25-26 "So see to it that you do not reject Him or refuse to listen to and heed Him Who is speaking (to you now). For it they (the Israelites) did not escape when they refused to listen and heed Him Who warned and devinely instructed them (here) on earth (revealing with heavenly warnings His will), how much less shall we escape if we reject and turn our backs on Him Who cautions and admonishes (us) from heaven? Then (at Mt. Sinai) His voice shook the earth, but now He has given a promise: Yet once more I will shake and make tremble not only the earth but also the (starry) heavens. (Hag. 2:6). Let's use Noah as an example. Noah warned of the coming flood. Perhaps some people took note or heed of what he said, yet as the years passed and they continued to live their lives in peace and prosperity, they began to doubt. That doubt led to mockery and derision. Most of the old testament prophets experienced the mockery of those who chose to ignore or reject God's warnings. God loves us so much He warns us beforehand. He gives His people every chance to repent. But there will be those who turn a blind eye to God's tender care for us. "For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation (2 Pet. 3:3-4) People will say, "What impending disaster? The sun is shining. Business is great. All is well." But God is calling us to repent, to seek after heavenly, not earthly things. Sometimes He literally has to shake us up to get us to listen to Him.

Psalms 68:8 "The earth trembled, the heavens also poured down (rain) at the presence of God; yonder Sinai quaked at the presence of God, the God of Israel."

Mount Calvary

Matthew 27: 51, 54 "And at once the curtain of the sanctuary of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom; the eath shook and the rocks were split (Ex. 26:31-35)." "When the centurion and those who were with him keeping watch over Jesus observed the earthquake and all that was happening, they were terribly frightened and filled with awe, and said, 'Truly this was God's Son!'" It is estimated that the veil of the sanctuary was four inches thick. Think phone book thick. Have you ever seen somebody tear a phone book in half. Now imagine a temple veil 60 feet high, torn completely in two. As the earth convulsed, amny rocks were split as well. The skies were dark and people were completely terrified. prompting even the gentile Roman soldiers to admit that Jesus had to be the Son of God.

Resurrection

Matthew 28:1-2 "Now after the Sabbath, near the dawn of the first day of the week, Mary of Magdala and the other Mary went to take a look at the tomb. And behold there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled the boulder back and sat upon it." When Jesus died on the cross--an earthquake and three days later, when He arose from the dead--another earthquake! Matthew 27:52 The tombs were opened and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep in death were raised (to life). And coming out of the tombs after His resurrection, they went into the holy city and appeared to many people. Can you imagine that? I wonder if Joseph, still in his Egyptian garb, was among those who wandered through the city. Remember, his specific request? He asked that his bones go with his people. He did not want to be buried in Egypt. So Joseph rested with his fathers.

Make note of the word "after." The old testament saints were resurrected in body and spirit, but Jesus had to be resurrected first, which explains why they rose in body and walked the earth, but were not resurrected to heaven until after Jesus. Some say these were the old testament people whom Jesus witnessed to in Paradise, a compartment in hell that is no longer there. It was emptied when these old testament believers received Jesus Christ as their Savior. Some also claim this event to be the first rapture.

Holy Spirit

Acts 4:31 "And when they had prayed, the place in which they were assembled was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they continued to speak the Word of God with freedom and boldness and courage." These early church believers were living in fear. They had been forbidden to witness, to speak of or share with anyone about this Savior, the Messiah, Jesus Christ, so they gathered together daily to pray. And when the Holy Spirit came upon each of them with tongues of fire, they left that upper room with boldness and began to witness to every living soul, without fear of imprisonment or death.

Paul and Silas

Acts 16: 25-27 "But about midnight, as Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise to God, and the (other) prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the very foundations of the prison were shaken; and at once all the doors of the prison were opened and everyone's shackles were unfastened." Can you imagine a more miserable place? Every prisoner was shackled in a cold, dark, filthy place. But Paul and Silas did something improbable. They sang with joy. They sang their faith. And the other prisoners were listening intently. The earthquake produced an improbable result as well. All the doors of the prison were opened and each and every shackle on every prisoner was unfastened. Amazing. What is more amazing is that these thing happened without a record of any loss of life in the prison. God can call forth an earthquake, tell it what to do and how to do it. He can use any natural force to do His will any way he wants it to.

Second Coming of Christ

Matthew 24:7 "For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in place after place." One could argue that this prophecy is occuring right now. Nation is rising up against nation. There are famines. And there are earthquakes in many places that do no usually experience earthquakes.

Luke 21:11 "There will be mighty and violent earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences (plagues; malignant and contagious or infectious diseases which are deadly and devastating); and there will be sights of terror and great signs from heaven." Some recent occurances come to mind. The earthquake and Tsumani in Japan. Recent quakes in Oklahoma. The Bird flu virus. Asteroids.

~~~

One thing is clear. End Time Earthquakes are decidedly different from all previous quakes. These will truly be devastating on a scale far greater than any experienced on the earth throughout all history. "There shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved" (Matt. 24:21,22).

Opening of 6th Seal

Revelation 6:12-17 "When He (the Lamb) broke open the sixth seal, I looked, and there was a great earthquake; and the sun grew black as sackcloth of hair, (the full disc of) the moon became like blood (Joel 2:10, 31).

7 Trumpets

Revelation 8:5 "So the angel took the censer and filled it with fire from the altar and cast it upon the earth. Then there followed peals of thunder and loud rumblings and blasts and noises, and flashes of lightening and an earthquake. (Lev. 16:12, Ezek. 10:2).

Revelation 11:19 "Then the sanctuary of God in heaven was thrown open, and the ark of His covenant was seen standing inside in His sanctuary; and there were flashes of lightening, loud rumblings (blasts, mutterings), peals of thunder, an earthquake, and a terrific hailstorm (1 Kings 8:1-6).

The Two Witnesses

Revelation 11:13 "And at that (very) hour there was a tremendous earthquake and one tenth of the city was destroyed (fell); seven thousand people perished in the earthquake, and those who remained were filled with dread and terror and were awe-struck, and they glorified the God of heaven."

The 7th Seal

Revelations 16:17-21 "Then the seventh (angel) emptied out his bowl into the air, and a mighty voice came out of the sanctuary of heaven from the throne (of God), saying, It is done! (It is all over, it is all acomplished, it has come!) (Isaiah. 66:6).

Have you have recently experienced an earthquake? If so, you know how terrifying it is to feel the ground move beneath your feet. But many people experience personal earthquakes. Their lives are shaken by financial, family or health problems--a shaking that topples, crumbles, destroys.

When troubles find us, fear makes our hearts grown faint. We tend to run around in circles, uncertain about what to do--panicked and without direction. The Greek word for moved can mean agitated, shaken or disturbed.

The first thing to do in this situation is get before God. Fall to your knees. Shut out your fear and shut yourself in with your Father God. There is only one sure way to overcome fear and that is in God's perfect love. Don't stop praying until you are fully satisfied and persuaded that God is in control. Once you do so, you will be able to sing your faith as Paul and Silas did. And you will see others come to Christ. You will see the doors open and the shackles fall away.

Then and only then will you truly be able to say, "Nothing on this earth can move me! I am in the presence of the Most High God. I am covered under the shadow of His wing (Psalm 91). I am not afraid, for in His presence is fullness of joy.

(http://earthquake.usgs.gov/learn/facts.php).

Touching God's Word--Braille Bible Bookmarks

2011-05-25T12:31:00.000-07:00

One of our Babes, Dannelle, had an amazing experience over the past week. Well, it really started a month or two ago.

"I'd been going through a dry period spiritually. A time when I felt the Lord was just not speaking to me," she said. "Then some of us from our bible study went to a soaking," (That's when women of the church pray over you while you lay down in a darkened room, and listen to soothing worship music).

Dannelle hadn't really wanted to go. "I had so many other things I needed to do! Lying down for a couple of hours seemed like a waste of time, but I went anyway."

"During the soaking, I suddenly felt like someone was holding my hand. There wasn't anyone there, but I felt it anyway. Then, after a little while, the feeling was completely gone, there was nothing. I wondered what God was doing. In a little bit I heard the Lord speak to me. "Even when you can't feel me, I'm still here." That was the first thing that happened.

Then, a few weeks later, she was out scouting a local flea market for some jewelry. There were all kinds of interesting things around, but her eye was caught by some big leather-type books set out on a table. She asked the owner what they were, and he said they were the books of the bible written in braille. She nearly lost it, right in front of everyone, because here was another instance of God speaking to her! Here was the bible written out, a bible you couldn't see. "You may not see me, Dannelle, but I'm here."

But there's more to the story. Dannelle bought the braille bible and decided to use a few pages to make bookmarks for the rest of the ladies in her bible study. She took it to Kinko's a few days later, and as the bookmarks were being copied and laminated, the machine started having problems. She and an employee ran over to check and see what was wrong. The employee fixed things, and as she did so, she became very interested in what Dannelle was doing with a braille bible. "Do you know someone who's blind?", Dannelle asked her. "My sister," the employee replied. "She was born without eyes."

"My sister loves to read the bible." the employee told her, "Her church bought the whole braille set for her, at about $1000. The books take up a lot of room, since one braille book only contains two books of the bible. So they're stacked from floor to ceiling in my sister's closet. Those books mean so much to my sister and she's read them again and again."

So, in three different ways God spoke to Dannelle, and I think he's speaking to us too. He is with us all the time, whether we can feel him or not. He's with us all the time whether we can see him or not. What an amazing God.

The Zest Of An Empty Nest--By Linda P. Kozar

2010-08-17T12:29:00.000-07:00

What is your passion in life?

Think backwards. When you were a student, your passion was an area of study you aspired to build into a career upon graduation. After that, many of us hoped to marry and start a family--redirecting our passions toward that end. Some of us walked away from promising careers or worked part-time instead in order to do so. Then, for many years after that, we lovingly concentrated on raising our children--putting their gifts, talents and dreams above our own. But when the kids begin to leave for college and pursue those dreams, many a stay-at-home mom begins to reassess her life, reviving dreams and passions that once burned brightly in her soul.

Though the sight of a child's vacant room draws raging streams of tears from a mother, an empty nest is confirmation that you've done your job. Think of it that way. Though it is sad to see the family separated, every mother knows in her heart that her children must mature and prosper on their own. A robin doesn't question why her birdies fly away and neither should you. Instead of looking at an empty nest as a gaping hole in your heart, view that empty nest as a gift from God. The block of time you spent nurturing and raising your children can now be used in other ways. Here are some ideas:

Rediscover your husband! Go on dates and trips together. Have fun!
Take art classes. Watercolor, oil, mixed media. Sculpting. Pottery making. Or learn something unusual like Italian glass bead making. Get the creative side of your brain working!
Sign up for creative writing classes and join local writing groups.
Go back to school and finish your degree or acquire an advanced degree and look for a job. Many people work way beyond the traditional age of retirement (if they are blessed enough to find a job).
Volunteer at church, a local food pantry--Animal Shelters, Meals On Wheels, Habitat For Humanity etc. There are lots of options and a lot of places need you help.
Read! All the books you've put off reading because you didn't have time. Well, now you do.
Learn public speaking. Join a local Toastmasters group and then use your speaking or storytelling abilities in schools, clubs and other organizations and public forums.
Teach a Bible class in church.
Take photography classes. Learn to use digital media and editing techniques in PhotoShop. Or transfer and edit all your old videos onto DVDs.
Reasearch your family ancestry and design a family history book or create a family history website.
Write and self-publish a family cookbook with all your treasured family recipes for your children.
Do those scrapbooks for your kids-you know--the projects you started 18 years ago:)
Clean out the kid's rooms and repurpose them as craft, exercise or media rooms. Just make sure you have enough beds for when the kids and eventually grandkids come to visit. (Murphy beds are a great solution).

Remember, just because your nest is empty doesn't mean your heart is! You will always love your children and follow their lives from a distance--celebrating in their successes, comforting them in their failures. Your role as a mother will change from disciplinarian to that of a wise counselor. Your children may or may not take your advice, but that's okay. At least they asked, right?

These are just a small sample of ideas to get you empty nest moms started. I hope they help. There's a new book and movie out that advises people to "Pray, Eat, Love", but believers know that after you pray, everything else falls into place. Blessings to you!

Zoned Out On The Fourth of July--by Linda Kozar

2010-07-04T08:20:00.000-07:00

from page 197~July 4th~Babes With A Beatitude--Devotions For Smart, Savvy Women of Faith (Howard/Simon & Schuster 2009)

"In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you"

--1st Thessalonians 5:18

Picnics and sunny days go together, but there was nothing traditional about this Fourth of July. Lightening zigzaggd through sheets of thunderous rain. I guess it was God's version of fireworks. As if that wasn't enough disappointment, our teens chose to spend the day with friends, so my husband and I watched the 24-hour Twilight Zone marathon on TV until one of us got hungry.

Since things were a bit damp from all the rain, my husband decided to fire up the grill with the leaf blower! (He thought of that himself.) Once the flames calmed down a bit, we grilled shish kabobs and eggplant, since neither of us felt like eating the traditional burger or hotdog.

As we thanked God for our food, we realized how blessed we were to even have a meal on the table when so many people in the world go to bed hungry. Between the weather , absent family members and the food, there was certainly nothing traditional about this Fourth of July. Even our prayers set off a different kind of fireworks--a zeal for God and thankful hearts filled with praise.

Beatitude Check

On Independence Day and every other day, let's be thankful that we are dependent on our Father God, Who provides for all our needs according to His riches in glory! (See Philippians 4:19).

Love Letters--by Linda Kozar

2010-07-01T19:34:00.000-07:00

Since Babes With A Beatitude came out in December, I have received many notes, emails, phone calls and messages in response. Dannelle has received similar letters and notes on FaceBook. In April I received the following email:

Linda, I just had to tell you! My sister got saved, and the Lord let ME lead her in the prayer! We were on vacation in the mountains for 3 days and we read your devotional together each morning. Do you remember autographing one for me to give to her? On the 2nd day it happened! On April 25, 2010 my sister, Kay got saved !!!!!!!!!!! I can't stop laughing and crying at the same time !!!!!!!!!

Thank you for all of the times you prayed for her over the years. God is SO GOOD!

Love you,
Lori

Yesterday I received a letter in the mail from a dear woman named Kay Bukovec. Here's what she said:

Just a note to let you know how much I am enjoying reading "Babes With A Beatitude."

Keep Writing,
Kay Bukovec

These letters mean so much to us! We would like our readers to know how much of a blessing it is to hear from you. Writing these devotions was not by any means just a job, it was a sacred privilege. They were, and are a labor of love. It's not as much about the writing as it is about the ministry. We were not called to write this book by accident, but by divine appointment.

I've created a "Reader Testimony" page on this blog just to list some of these wonderful messages about how God used these devotions to transform lives, strengthen your faith or inspire women to follow and trust Him more closely. We would love for you to share your story if you feel the gentle call of the Holy Spirit leading you to do so. Tell your story for His glory!

Happy and FREE On My Birthday--by Linda Kozar

2010-06-20T21:29:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's because I'm getting older, but I had a wild idea this year--to discover every deal, freebie and coupon available to me as I turn a year older. Crazy, I know. And perhaps not everyone's idea of a fun time on their B-Day. But maybe it's because I AM getting a bit older that I find the whole idea kind of fun, or maybe in this economy it isn't such a bad idea. I think it might even be green (humor me on this one please--after all it's my B-Day).

First I have to give a shout out to Amanda who does my highlights at Toni & Guy, The Woodlands. Besides being an AWESOME Color Artist, when I mentioned to her what I was doing on my birthday this year, she didn't charge me a penny! A complimentary highlight and color! Hallelujah! The first of many totally cool birthday perks!

Anywho, tomorrow on my birthday the first thing I'm going to do is pay a visit (the only paying I'm going to do today is pay a visit:) IHOP to get my FREE BIRTHDAY MEAL. At Red Robin I get a FREE GOURMET BURGER OF MY CHOICE. At La Madeleine I receive a FREE PASTRY AND A FREE REFRESHING GLASS OF MANGO TEA. Dickey's BBQ--I receive a FREE BEVERAGE IN A BIG YELLOW CUP and if i buy a sandwich i get another FREE SANDWICH. At Baskin Robbins I get a FREE 2.5.OZ SCOOP OF ICE CREAM OR SOFT SERVE AND $3 OFF ANY CAKE. At Red Mango--a FREE CUP OF DELICIOUS YUMMINESS! World Market sent me a $10 GIFT CERTIFICATE TO BUY A LITTLE GIFT FOR MYSELF AT THEIR STORE. At Coldstone Ice Cream I get a FREE SCOOP OF ICE CREAM. At Olive Garden I receive a FREE BIRTHDAY CAKE AND SONG! At Macaroni Grill--A FREE DESSERT AND OPERA STYLE SONG SUNG AT MY TABLE. FREE BOWLING AT AMF Lanes!

As you can probably tell by now, I'm going to be pretty busy tomorrow and I'll be working off all those calories for a long time. But it'll be worth it! So think of me on my Birthday FreeDay! Below is a small list of sites and more free stuff if you want to do likewise on your special day!

http://www.heyitsfree.net/2006/10/03/birthday-freebies/

http://www.frugalliving.tv/free-stuff/birthday-freebies.html

Baskin Robbins – Baskin Robbins will send you a coupon for a free 2.5 oz scoop of ice cream on your birthday plus other special promotions when you join the Baskin Robbins Birthday Club.

Ben & Jerry’s – Get a free ice cream treat on your birthday when you become a ChunkSpelunker with Ben & Jerry’s.

Benihana - Join “The Chef’s Table” and receive a Benihana Birthday Dinner certificate worth $30 to use during the month of your birthday.

Blue Bell – Members of the Blue Bell Country Club will receive a gift certificate for a free half gallon of Blue Bell Ice Cream during the month of their birthday.

Cold Stone Creamery – Cold Stone Creamery will send you an email with a coupon for a free ice cream creation to enjoy on your birthday. All ages are welcome!

Disneyland – Get free admission on your birthday when you register in advance. You will need to bring the confirmation along with your ID to the park.

IHOP – Come on into IHOP and get a free meal (a sundae at some locations) on your birthday. (May not be available in all areas.)

P.F. Changs – Come in and get a free dessert on your birthday.

Sephora – Sign up as a Beauty Insider and get a free gift from Sephora on your birthday.

Walt Disney World – Free admission on your birthday when you register in advance and bring the confirmation along with an ID.

Good to the Last Drop--by Nancy Williams, LPC

2010-04-22T21:49:00.000-07:00

Nancy Williams has a new book coming out!
"Secrets to Parenting Your Adult Child"
Bethany House Publishers, Spring 2011

Read Nancy Williams on our Babes Website too www.babeswithabeatitude.com.

Today is one of those great Spring days. Cloudless blue sky, temperature dancing in the high 70’s, a gentle breeze blowing the new leaves emerging on our trees. Vibrant colors popping up all over. I love this season so I took time this morning to sit outside with a fresh cup of coffee and greet the birds that came to serenade. Unlike some of you who jump out of bed and hurry into your day, I like to ease my way into my schedule and I can’t think of any better way than with beautiful weather, nature’s delights and a fresh cup of coffee.

Have you enjoyed a fresh cup of coffee lately? Not one from a pot that was left sitting on the burner too long. Not one you set aside and let get cold. Not a stale cup you’ve tried to re-warm. I’m talking about savoring a fresh brewed cup of coffee. Whether you prepare it yourself or visit a local coffee shop, freshness is key.

Making a tasteful cup of coffee begins with a coffee maker that connects to a strong power source. Then you need a clean pot that’s free of residue and without cracks that might lead to leaks. You’ll also need a filter to separate the grinds from the final brew. Then there are the ingredients—clean water and fresh ground coffee beans. We might have the same type of coffee brewing system; however, each of us can choose the blend of coffee that reflects our personal taste. Flavored? Decaf? Chicory? Mild?

Coffeemaker plugged in. Filter and ingredients in place. The “on” button tapped. Now it’s time to do what doesn’t come easily to many of us: wait. Not my preference, certainly. After all, when I want a cup of coffee, I’m typically ready for it right then. I don’t want to stand by and wait. Fast food restaurants and convenience stores know about our impatience, so they have coffee waiting for us to grab and go. The problem there? It’s not always fresh. Perhaps it’s true that some things are, indeed, worth waiting for. So, we wait.

In due time, cold water and ground beans brew into a sweet aroma and full flavored beverage. As you pour a cup, you realize it’s more than simply drinking a hot liquid. It’s the experience of letting the cup’s warmth permeate your hands as you gently savor each sip. In the morning, that first cup is a gentle nudge to greet a new day and prepare to experience what’s in store. Mid afternoon sometimes calls for a “pick-me-up.” Coffee after a meal invites companions to linger awhile and share a slice of life.

While enjoying a fresh brewed cup of coffee this morning, I began to look beyond my cup to the process of living life itself. Can we experience a “fresh brewed” life? Perhaps it starts with a well-made coffee maker connected to a strong power source. For me, personally, God fuels the energy I need to make life work day after day, as I stay connected to Him. Then I need to make sure my “container”—my mind and heart through which the essence of my life flows—is clean and free of past residue that might alter the

flow or affect the taste. I also need a good filter to sift out harmful impurities. Ingredients are the next consideration. How will I blend talents, beliefs, opportunities and relationships to create the freshness of life I want to experience? And what about choices? Do I merely settle for what others are having? Or, am I willing to explore possibilities and choose something that fits the blend of life I desire? Then, there’s the waiting. Whether I’m brewing coffee or allowing time for things to come together in my life, sometimes I must patiently wait.

Today’s a perfect day to savor coffee and savor life; to delight our senses and energize our spirits. God has blessed us with opportunities to experience life to the fullest. Now it’s up to us to brew a fresh cup each day, savor its richness and do all we can to make it “good to the last drop.” Enjoy!

Nancy Williams, LPC is a licensed professional counselor, life coach, speaker and writer. Send questions or comments to her at www.nancywilliams.net.

From Nancy's Tribune Column – Keeping Your Balance, Nancy Williams, LPC
Print Date – April 14, 2010

The Longing--By Linda Kozar

2010-04-09T23:19:00.000-07:00

Uncle Joe and Aunt Rosalie 2010

Today, April 9th, my Aunt Rosalie passed away. Her death took us all by surprise. The whole family is mourning her loss. But God is sovereign and His ways, perfect. This evening, my sister texted me and told me to read the Babes daily devotion. This is it. . .

"He came and touched the open coffin. . .'Young man, I say to you, arise.' So he who was dead sat up and began to speak"--Luke 7:14-15.

Jesus is the resurrection and the life, and He can most certainly raise people from the dead. But He didn't raise everyone who died. And what glories they left behind when they returned to the land of the living! What a sacrifice to come back to earth from sublime and heavenly places!

Losing one we love is a pain like no other, and a yawning emptiness lingers for quite some time. We question God's decision to take our loved one away, not for lack of trust, but because we are so grieved by the person's absence. It seems the rest of the world continues as if nothing profound happened, while our world has come to a sudden halt.

But God also sends us peace and comfort in ways we didn't even know were possible. Over time, we are able to sort through our grief and discover new reasons to live with a renewed purpose. Nature sends us little signals that we're coming out of a storm, like a rainbow or a blooming flower found in a blanket of snow. Losing a loved one is a storm everyone will face one day, but God will be right there with you, holding your hand.

Beatitude Check

Jesus, who raised the dead can raise your spirit from the depths of grief. It won't happen overnight because the pain of loss is so great, but it will happen. God has a plan for your life and desires for you ot find comfort and peace once again. If you are grieving now, let God help you. He will carry your burdens.

God knew that our family would have particular need of this devotion today, but I'm sure there are many of you who could easily say the same thing. How many times do you open a book of devotions, or your bible and read your life in those pages? Or hear a song on the radio that describes exactly what you're going through? Praise Jesus--He knows exactly what we need. He is our daily manna, our bread of life.

Sunshine and Lollipops--by Linda Kozar

2010-04-06T18:30:00.000-07:00

Do you ever wake up in the morning and feel absolutely wonderful?

No aches or pains--just a marvelous feeling of well being. And happy. So happy you feel like skipping.

I'm not done yet.

You have a good hair day. Your clothes fit. Your shoes don't hurt. Your children obey. You win at Monopoly. (I'm talking Boardwalk, Park Place and owning ALL the railroads and utilities). You score the perfect parking spot at the mall. You find $100 bill on the ground on your way into the mall. Everything you want to buy is half-price but when you get to the register, it's 75% off!

Stay with me.

You arrive home to find your husband cooking dinner. Afterwards, he takes out the garbage, cleans up the kitchen, sweeps, mops, then vacuums the entire house. Then you sit on the sofa together and actually talk. Well, actually he sits there and listens to you talk. REALLY listens. No bobble-head kind of listening going on.

Then your husband asks if he can read a love sonnet to you. It's so beautiful, tears well up in your eyes (tears of joy) but then he tells you he actually wrote it just for you--skipping lunch to toil over it every day for a month. AND he made a colorful toaster cozy for you from elbow pasta and dried beans.

At the end of the day, you lay your head upon your perfect lavender-scented pillow and instantly fall into REM sleep. You dream of puppies and rainbows and lollipops.

The end of a perfect day.

We all dream of days like that. But the reality is we only experience moments like that. The closest I ever came to a perfect day was winning at goofy golf. No seriously, I made a hole-in-one through almost the entire course without even trying! It was awesome!

But then there's heaven. . .

Heaven is an eternal day. There are no shadows in God's eternity. His days and His ways are perfect. Our idea of the perfect day here on earth is only a shadow of what God's has prepared for His people. THE perfect day.

So tomorrow when you spill a five pound bag of flour on the kitchen floor and the kids forget their lunch and you have to make a special trip to the school and the dog is sick and your car breaks down and you're overdrawn at the bank--THINK of that perfect someday in eternity and praise the Lord for your days here on earth with those you love. Our imperfect days test us--often to our limits, but cause us to grow in Christ, in perfect faith.

Have a blessed day my friends. A sunshine and lollipop kind of day!

Show Me Your Glory Lord--by Kate Young

2010-04-03T13:28:00.000-07:00

I recently attended a 3-day conference where the glory of the Lord was very heavy. What does that mean to me? Well, my body pulsed with what feels like a low voltage of electricity. It usually starts with my hands tingling. Then it can progress into a pulsing in my hands and forearms. When it becomes stronger, I feel the tingling of that electric feeling all the way through my body to the point I can feel it in my toes. Sometimes, I feel it as a swirling in my torso so that my whole body feels like it is a flag waving slowly in a breeze. Sometimes my mouth, tongue or lips buzz. Sometimes I began to weep and sometimes I begin to laugh. It's all part of my experience of being in the presence of the Lord, knowing the holy spirit is filling me up as I worship Him.

I thought after this 3-day conference I would be so energized from spending so much time in the Lord's presence. It was such a shock that the following day, I spent much of my time in bed sleeping like I had not sleep for a week. The next day I needed to rest quite a bit as well. And on the third day, by the time we got to our prayer time at the end of our bible study, I was ready to fall asleep again! I was wondering by now, "What is WRONG with me??" I had no symptoms of sickness except this heavy fatigue.

God is so faithful to answer our questions. Ten days later, I am reading a book, The Supernatural Life, by Cindy Jacobs, and the words on page 168 jumped off the page at me. She said that flowing under the annointing tired her out physically. She could not handle the power flowing through her without considerable rest. And, it was confirmed to her by others went through the same thing. Ah ha! Here is my answer to my exhaustion. She also said she believed as with physical stamina, one could build themselves up with spiritual stamina. I suppose she knows this to be true being so farther along in her ministry than when this happened in the beginning of her ministry.

I was reminded by the Holy Spirit of the verses in Exodus 33 as I pondered all this:

Then Moses said, "Show me your glory".

And the LORD said, "I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the LORD, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion. But," He said "you cannot see my face, for no one may see my face and live."

Then the LORD said, "There is a place near me where you may stand on a rock. When my glory passes by I will put you in the cleft of the rock, and cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back; but my face must not be seen."

I have learned that by the words of our testimony, the power of His word is released for others. If you would like to experience God's glory in a supernatural way, ask him just as Moses asked him. His Word also says you don't receive because you have not asked in James chapter 4. I can understand too why the Lord protected Moses in the cleft. The glory of the Lord is too strong for our flesh to handle all at once. But He is gracious to give us our portion and will increase it as needed for any situation. He never gives us more than we can handle. Thank you Jesus for sending the Holy Spirit to baptize and indwell us when we ask.

An April Fool's Day Blessing--by Linda Kozar

2010-04-01T05:32:00.000-07:00

Today, 17 years ago, I was busy giving birth to my April Fool's Day blessing--my youngest daughter, Lauren. If you don't own a copy of Babes With A Beatitude, here's today's entry about her. Would you please wish her a happy birthday?

Building Memories

"Through skillful and godly wisdom is a house (a life, a home, a family) built, and by understanding it is established (on a sound and good foundation).--Proverbs 24:3 (AMP)

My youngest daughter was born on April 1st, and as soon as she was old enough to delight in them, we enjoyed playing April Fool's jokes on her. In fourth grade she asked me to bring birthday cupcakes to school to share with her classmates during their lunch period and to bring her favorite fast food (Chick-fil-a) for lunch. Of course, I agreed.

Instead of her favorite food however, I handed her a regular lunch in a plain brown bag. I could see she was disappointed, but I winked at the teacher who had conspired with me to hide the real lunch. Surrounded by a long table full of classmates and friends, she pulled the sandwich bag out without much enthusiasm. But her eyes, wide as kiwis, stared in disbelief at a sardine, M&M, peanut butter'n mayonaise sandwich, complete with little fishtails sticking out the sides!

A smile blossomed on her sweet face, and between all the laughter and "eeews" of the other kids, she gave me a big hug.

"Mom that was the best April Fool's joke ever!"

Beatitude Check

Caring for your family means more than just providing for their physical needs. Families thrive on faith, fun, love and laughter. Traditions build strong, abiding relationships--a reflection of our relationship with God the father. Build a strong relationship with your family today:)

2010-03-16T21:12:00.001-07:00

Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it. – Malachi 3:10

This is the only place in the bible where God actually challenges us to test him…in our tithes and offerings. Easy said…easy done? Not so much for everyone. It may be second nature to those of us who grew up in a Christian home, or maybe to those who felt like they had enough to go around. The idea here though is to give from the first fruits, and to give cheerfully.

For God loves a cheerful giver. – 2 Cor. 9:7

In the bible, giving of the first fruits meant you were to give your first lamb. What if you didn’t get another?! It literally meant that you were faithful to God’s word, that you told Him, “God, I believe you are a big God, and that you will provide for me and my family. I give you my first Lamb to praise and bless you.” Thinking about tithing the way they did in the Bible can really put tithing in perspective for today. What if God asked for your whole pay check and you didn’t know where money was going to come from for your bills? Could you do it?

So, your blessings may be great or they may feel small, but God still asks for a portion. Getting into the reality of it, here are some ways to pay your tithe if it is tough to make it to church with your check. In talking to friends and family members, there are a variety of ways to keep this simple. Some people get the cash out immediately in order to have it available at church, you can put a paperclip on it and label it “God’s Money”. I use online banking to send a check as soon as I get paid, and don’t even have to pay for a stamp! This is right to do for the Lord, because, it is all His after all!!

For some however, committing to God that first 10% is committing far above and beyond what you see the bills are. I have a few suggestions for that.

Examine your heart and ask God to give you the understanding of his word, and what that will mean to your finances.
Reach out to Godly resources around you; pastor, friends, trusted websites (Crown Financial Ministries, DaveRamsey.com, Focus on the Family)
Sit down and write out your income and expenses. If you are already in the red, you definitely need to examine where exactly your money is going. This might be another indication to perhaps take a finance class (there are many offered through churches) or read one of the many books out there on Godly finances.
Commit to God your first 10%, and write the check as soon as you get paid.

Thinking about tithes, I have so many awesome testimonies about this. Be blessed, and know that there are many resources out there if you feel that you need support. Please feel free to email me if you have any questions!!

Comments on our February 21st Devotion "Father Knows Best"

2010-02-21T22:20:00.000-08:00

Having confidence in your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say.--Philemon 1:21

I've felt like Jonah on more than a few occasions in my life. But running from the Lord's will is always disastrous. It's not an option I want in my life. So why did Jonah run?

Because of unforgiveness. The people of Ninevah were BRUTAL. They did unimaginable things to his people--tortured them, destroyed whole families. Horrible memories flooded his head. He hated them. The last thing Jonah wanted was for these despicable people to repent and be saved. So he ran.

He got on a ship, knowing full well that God would pursue him. When a storm threatened to sink the ship, the sailors prayed to their Gods to no avail. They called Jonah from his nap in the hold. Now how could a grown man sleep through a life-threatening storm? Jonah had no problem sleeping--as long as he wasn't headed to Ninevah, he didn't mind heading to a watery grave. When they called him on deck, he admitted that it was all his fault and told them to throw him overboard and the storm would cease. He was more than willing to die.

With relectance, the sailors threw him overboard and the seas were immediately calm. Which is right about the time Moby Dick (a whale) swallowed him.

Now the sailors thought he'd been eaten by the whale--a tasty snack or something. But Jonah was in the belly of the whale for 3 days and 3 nights. The stomach acid bleached his skin white during that time. When the whale washed up on shore and Noah climbed out through his mouth, he was a sight to see!!! No wonder the people of Ninevah repented! Jonah probably looked like a ghost. But aside from that, God had already laid the groundwork. The hearts of the Ninevites were ripe and ready to repent! And they did!

Did this make Jonah happy? No! He was in Ninevah against his will. God sent him, but Jonah's heart wasn't in it. In fact, he mourned more over a silly plant that barely shielded him from the harsh rays of the run than he did the whole city of people. (Granted, his skin was probably extremely sensitve after being bleached white.) But the point is, the whole city of Ninevah repented and Jonah was depressed over it!

Are you and I like Jonah sometimes. You bet we are. Running from God's perfect will is not an option I choose to exercise--running from God is always disastrous.

If you're running from God right now, stop. Pivot your position! Don't wait for God to get your attention. Expecially when He sends a whale to swallow you up!

Following God's Lead--by Dorothy McCann

2010-01-21T14:00:00.000-08:00

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

Last night I was walking through my house and it was pitch black. I could see absolutely nothing. Now, particularly with my “tripping” tendencies, one might think that this would be a rather dangerous task. But, much to my surprise, I never fell. Though “blind," on my walk that night, I have walked around my house so many times that I knew where each piece of furniture was. I knew I needed to watch for my son’s shoes at the end of the stairs. I knew that there was a pillar in the center of the dining room. I didn’t need anyone to lead me through. I walked through the "familiar" without a problem.

This made me start thinking about the old Sunday school illustration of a Christian walking blindly through life with Christ guiding their hands and lighting their footsteps. I realized that although this greatly depicts how we should “walk” through this life, there is another part of the illustration, if we are truly honest with ourselves. Through the familiar parts of our lives, we know (or at least we think we know) all the steps. We have traveled them a hundred times before and we are generally not concerned with tripping or falling in them. It could be a relationship, a job, or family, or a million other “familiar” aspects of human life. We tend only to lean on our Guide when the territory is new or unknown. We are scared that the next step may lead to pain and loss.

However, even within the familiar, there is always a stray shopping bag (work with the metaphor people) or a backpack that could cause us to fall or stumble, even in the environments we feel we know so well. Now, obviously this illustration is used to show how we need Christ in the unfamiliar places where we fear each step we take. But, also, remember that He is also there in the familiar. In fact, He waits to guide you through every aspect of your life. Now, this also means he may wish to lead you from the familiar to the unknown, or simply to guide you past the obstacles you are too over-confident to see. Either way, you don’t have to walk in the dark by yourself. And even if you know the path, isn’t always more comforting to have a friend along for the ride?

God's Top Ten List by Linda P. Kozar

2009-12-30T09:46:00.000-08:00

"Every good gift and every perfect (free, large, full) gift is from above; it comes down from the Father of all [that gives] light, in [the shining of] Whom there can be no variation [rising or setting] or shadow cast by His turning [as in an eclipse]."--James 1:17 (Amplified)

The new year looms before us, full of promise, yet laced with hints of world peril and uncertainty. Change seems to be the one element we can all be certain of in life!

But the word "change" evokes visions of fear or favor. Which will it be?

Families change--children grow up and move on to college, careers, marriage and children. Financial situations shift from stable to steep decline to survival mode. Jobs are lost. Relationships turn from hot to cold in an instant. Children rebel. Friends rise up against friends, family members against family members. People who work beside you suddenly work against you. Marriages disintegrate, chipped away by infidelity or abuse. Loved ones are lost through old age, disease or disaster. Church leaders fall into sin and fail to repent. Those you trust are not to be trusted. Selflessness is replaced by selfishness. But change can also be good. Sweetness often ferments from the sourest of circumstances!

There are 50-year wedding anniversaries to be celebrated--young marriages to plan--babies yet to be born--prizes to be won--prayers to be answered--financial blessings to receive--relationships to be mended and reconciled--loves to be rekindled and renewed--kindnesses yet to be bestowed and treasures of the heart to be shared.

But where is God in all of this. . .and where are we?

Believers are not immune from the unpleasant aspects of change. In fact, we are tested by God through them. Faith is not simply a word or concept. Every word of God we say we believe is put to the test! But rest assured, those who live by faith are never alone through their circumstances or difficulties. Our Father is right beside us. He covers us under the shadow of his wings. He guides us through the dark valleys and hard climbs ever upward. He removes obstacles and builds bridges. He gives us hinds feet for the high places and light for our path in the low places. God is our VERY present help in times of trouble. Read the following passage from The Message Bible for further inspiration.

Psalm 46
God is a safe place to hide, ready to help when we need him.
We stand fearless at the cliff-edge of doom,
courageous in seastorm and earthquake,
Before the rush and roar of oceans,
the tremors that shift mountains.

Jacob-wrestling God fights for us,
God-of-Angel-Armies protects us.   

River fountains splash joy, cooling God's city,
this sacred haunt of the Most High
God lives here, the streets are safe,
God at your service from crack of dawn.
Godless nations rant and rave, kings and kingdoms threaten,
but Earth does anything he says.

Jacob-wrestling God fights for us, the
God-of-Angel-Armies protects us.

Attention, all! See the marvels of God,
He plants flowers and trees all over the earth,
Bans war from pole to pole,
breaks all the weapons across his knee.
"Step out of the traffic! Take a long,
loving look at me, your High God,
above politics, above everything."

  Jacob-wrestling God fights for us,
God-of-Angel-Armies protects us.
May you and your family be greatly blessed in 2010--with peace, good health and a holy life before God. May you pass every test by lining up your thoughts, actions and responses to the plumb line of the Word of God! May you love with the purest love of the Father! Be patient, compassionate, caring, faithful, generous, forgiving and pure in thought, deed and motive!
Join me in saying "Amen 2010!"
Now before you leave your computer, I want you to make a list of your top ten prayer requests to intercede for the coming year. Write them down on a piece of paper and slip that piece of paper into your bible so you'll remember to pray each day over them. One of my requests year after year was to be contracted with a publishing house--to become a published author. I crossed that one off in 2008! And year after year, I pray for world peace:) I'm still waiting on that one. . .

Tethered through the storms, but to what?

2009-11-20T10:32:00.000-08:00

Unpacking is not my favorite thing to do. When I moved into the house we are currently in, I am ashamed to admit there were still boxes I had lugged around since I left the house I grew up in. I never opened them, just moved them from dwelling place to dwelling place until finally my husband gave me an ultimatum. It was time to unpack the boxes.

At this point all memory of what was in them had left. To my surprise it was all my school memorabilia: homecoming mums, old notes, yearbooks, awards etc… but deep on the bottom was a little wooden box with a paper bag full of seeds.

I had completely forgotten about them. They came from my boyfriend’s grandmother in North Carolina. On her farm she had a beautiful house where the orchid trees were magnificent unlike anything I had ever seen here in Texas. I saved the seeds that were hanging off of them in hopes to have one of my own someday.

Nineteen years later, here I sit looking out the window at my prized orchid tree. Unfortunately it has just recently blown down onto the neighbor’s fence. This is the second time it has not withstood the winter storms and this will be the second time we will tether it and pull the tree back up to allow its root system to strengthen again.

Looking at that tree made me think about my own life. How strong is our own “root system”? Are we grounded in Christ? Are we rooted in his word? When the bad weather comes do we feel hopelessness and defeat? Do we run to our friends and family or our monetary temporary fixes? I think at times, we all do. But the ultimate fix always goes back to the one who created us. Isn’t it awesome to remember that our Jesus will still pick us up, “tether” us to him and show us how to strengthen our own feet so that each time a storm comes we will grow stronger and more faithful with each trial that blows in?
Today spend some time with Him. Read His word. Just sit and rest in his presence, and when the change in weather comes, he has you covered.

And one more thing…I married the high school boy whose grandmother I visited. It’s a good thing I saved all those boxes, huh? For those of you who know my l7-year-old, DO NOT tell her I went with him and his family on vacation during high school…

Have a great “storm-free” Thanksgiving..
Love you gals,
Dannelle Woody

Confessions of an Angry Christmas Shopper--by Linda Kozar

2009-11-20T06:44:00.000-08:00

The malls are already starting to feel a bit crowded. I wandered aimlessly, wondering what to buy. Teens never like anything I like. The same goes for nieces and nephews. My husband is persnickety to buy for (and yes, I've already tried magazine subscriptions thank you). Early Christmas shoppers pass by smiling smugly as they juggle packages on the way to the car. Well, enjoy the glow of the moment why don't you? I've done the early shopping thing too and guess what? You always, always, always forget something!

It's true. In years past, I thought I could avoid crowded malls and throngs of weary shoppers, but try as I might, there was always one more thing I needed. One crucial gift I had to drag myself to the mall for. One reason I drove up and down parking aisles cruising like a Seregetti lioness on the prowl--all for a spot to rest my weary wheels. One reason I tried in vain to dance my way past strollers and people herds (groups of family members or friends who travel in packs). One reason I stood in long lines to buy, to use the restroom or buy a big greasy pretzel and a coke. TO buy that last gift. The one I forgot. Or the one I didn't anticipate having to buy.

But in spite of all my complaints, there's something else I can't deny. The intangible thing about Christmas shopping is there in the midst of all the aggravation and frustration. The excitment! Yup. There's an electric buzz in the air. A rushing wind of like-mindedness. A shark feeding frenzy kind of feeling. AND sometimes I find myself pausing a moment to sniff the fragrance of Cinnabons in the air, listen to a childen's choir or laugh at a toddler sitting on Santa's lap wondering whether to laugh, cry, pull his beard off or test the efficacy of his diaper.

Okay, so Christmas is fun. Sort of. It's I like singing carols in church. I like the glowy, slightly gawdy look of my home after it's tinselized in seasonal splendor. I love velcro-ing reindeer antlers on my reluctant doggie. . .indulging in candies, dips, breads, eggnog, pies and pastries. . .sharing memories with family, friends and neighbors. . .

Here's a confession I have to make though--I love Jesus all year long, but I'm so glad Christmas is only once a year.

How about YOU? Leave a comment.:)

Answered Prayer--by Jill McKechnie

2009-11-11T07:53:00.000-08:00

Last week, on a run to the local coffee shop, I had a very encouraging encounter. An anwered prayer, really. Hopefully, this story will also encourage you.

As I sat in the coffee shop with my cup of java and a blueberry scone, I was contemplating family life. In other words, "Would it be illegal for me to hit my kids over the head? Could I knock some sense into them? Would that help to turn around their attitudes?

Seriously, though, I had been praying a lot for wisdom to guide them and train them. They had been drilled with scriptures, grown up going to church, and taught the difference between right and wrong. They had both asked Jesus into their hearts and been baptized. Why were they morphing into meanies?

While thinking these not very motherly thoughts, a lovely older woman sat down next to me. We began to chat. It turns out that she had raised three boys of her own down in the big city (Houston proper). She and her husband had just moved north a few months ago, and she was still getting acclimated to finding her way around.

As we delved deeper into our conversation, we started talking about our families, and I expressed my frustration with my kids (both boys), and how I felt I had no idea what I was doing. I had been feeling really discouraged by their rebelliousness, lack of response to their father and me, etc. I'm sure many of you can relate. Well, the Lord answered my prayer through this lovely woman! Let's call her June.

June and her husband had an awful time with their oldest son in high school. He picked up two DUIs and had been in jail. At one of the darkest times she prayed to the Lord, and God answered her prayer. God told her that He was in control, and that He would speak directly to her son. A couple of days later, her son called to say, "I've got to get out of Houston, can you help me?" They contacted a military academy, their son was accepted, and lo and behold, he did turn his life around. When his two younger brothers graduated from high school, the older brother talked them into also attending this academy. The oldest son is now a successful adult, married, with children of his own. When their family was going through such turmoil and anguish as a result of the older son's behavior, June couln't imagine that one day things would be better, and that her son would become a responsible adult.

As June finished her story, I thanked her for encouraging me, leaned back in my chair and thought about what she had said. Worrying and fretting about my boys accomplished nothing but an upset stomach. I needed to remember the One who is really in charge and trust Him. Matthew has a lot to say about worry in chapter 6, but I'll just quote one bit ."Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?" Matthew 6:27.

No, they can't. Though we may not have control over our circumstances (or our children!), God is a loving and gracious God. He will not forget us or forget them.

Thank you, Lord for answering my prayer and assuring me that You will always be there to guide my kids, whether I am there or not.

Thoughts on Marriage

2009-10-21T06:41:00.000-07:00

Woohoo--the wedding pictures are coming in!

Wedding Picture From Kate: ((Kate and David Young)

I almost got married in France while studying there in 1986, but 3 weeks before, everyone was afraid of terrorism by Libya. So, I cancelled all our plans and went back to our hometown to a small chapel wedding. My wedding outfit however is from France. My grandma made this small cake for a church reception and then my parents hosted a larger party 2 weeks later after our honeymoon in Hawaii. I hated being the center of attention of even a chapel wedding… I even broke out in hives right before the ceremony all over my back for everyone to see~!

This week I thought it might be interesting to hear from different women about thoughts on marriage--

marriage do's and don'ts
what they've learned from the marriage relationship or experienced through divorce or loss
what works and what doesn't
helpful tips or humorous thoughts:)

So let's hear from you ladies!

(Below: Michael and Linda 1989)

P.S. I'd LOVE to post your wedding pictures!

Peeling off the Layers - By Danielle Francoise

2009-10-05T09:04:00.000-07:00

This past week I spent time in the beautiful Rocky Mountains of Colorado. Now, in Texas the weather is still sweat-inducing, but it’s nothing like that in Colorado right now! My husband and I drove on up to the mountain for the first day of hiking ready to go…camera in hand and jackets zipped up tight. It was certainly chilly (27 degrees at the bottom!) and only colder as we hiked up. We hiked about 4 hours that first day, and stumbled, exhausted into our cabin at the end of it all. I remember thinking about how cold it had been up there at the top, above the tree line. We guessed it had been about 15 degrees with a wind chill even lower than that, not to mention the 45 mph winds whipping at us! We were only protected from the tough elements because we dressed in plenty of warm layers.

This makes me think of the things we use to “protect ourselves” against this world. God recognizes that we will be burdened and try to do this on our own, so he says, “take my yolk upon you and … you will find rest for your souls. For my yolk is easy and my burden is light” (Matt 11:29-30). He goes on to encourage us in Hebrews, “Therefore since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”(Heb 12:1)

I want to draw a picture of what that might look like for me. Being surrounded by people of great faith and an awesome Creator, who loves and cherishes me, let me throw off the things that weigh me down. I start by pulling off the façade of perfection I’ve so painstakingly put on the outside…so imperfect when compared to the real perfection of our Lord. Under that I’ve still got layers of weight pulling at me yet. Coming off next, like gloves, are my insecurities about my body and fears of rejection. Pride for anything I think I ever did on my own – it’s not real, and I can toss it off with His help. There’s also the jealousy I’ve carried of things that don’t provide anything real, fleeting pleasures and vain ambitions. Unforgiveness is next; it’s like a hard shell I’ve built up to protect against hurts and pain from people I’ve been vulnerable with.

So many burdens and stumbling blocks to sin that I can look back and see in a pile on the ground as I finally have the energy to run my race with my wonderful Savior. Can you imagine how freeing it can be to give it all to the Lord? To be made free in Him. That’s a beautiful picture.

I could stop there, it could be that easy. But there’s that word “perseverance,” and in the KJV, the word is “patient”. God asks us not to do this just today, no, it’s an everyday exchange. Wow, now this gets a little more intense. Paul tells us in Philippians, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” As an added assurance, God lets us know in Hebrews 4 that “we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - - yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence…” Amen, I think I will! Truly, this is a daily battle and decision for me, but ultimately he is growing and shaping us to be men and women after His own heart.

Precious Jesus, you promise us so many wonderful things and ask only one thing of us…to love you with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. I pray that today you be made real in my life by taking on these burdens I carry. I acknowledge that you died on the cross to take my pain and my burdens and be a sin offering. You are so beautiful, and I am so blessed to be made beautiful and whole in you alone. Amen.

What is your need? God Shall Supply It! --by Kate Young

2009-09-27T17:19:00.000-07:00

Reading through John 7 and 8 after listening to today’s message at church, I began to ponder the need for people had to see miracles to believe in Jesus as the Messiah. I began to think well, it was a different time then. They were looking for signs for the one they had been told about who would come. But, no, some were just told second-hand stories and they believed. Just as some of us get today. Some of us ask for our own miracles to believe still today. I have people in my life who did such a thing. Then I began to think back, hmmm, and I cannot remember the moment I first believed. I am sure there was that point in my life, but I must have been younger than my memory goes back for me. It’s like it was always there. We all have different needs in our life and comparing them to others is fruitless, just as comparing where we are in our spiritual walk is dangerous ground as well because then were are apt to start judging, which God says is not our place. I’m just glad that God supplies all our needs, whether it is a miracle we need or not.

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

How I Met My Jesus--by Linda Kozar

2009-09-27T14:22:00.000-07:00

I didn't believe in Christianity. Twenty-four years ago, (that's me to the left) I was of the opinion that religion was for the ignorant and the weak--not those who were educated and resourceful. So when my little brother came home one day and announced he was "saved" I didn't exactly celebrate. In fact, the rest of the family thought he might need to be deprogrammed from the Cult of Christianity he had obviously become entangled with.

Funny thing though. He was happy. In fact, I had to admit he was happier than I'd ever seen him before. He loved to sit and talk with all of us about his new best friend--Jesus. I listened politely and tried to talk things out logically in the hopes he would "see the light," not of God, but of reason. One Sunday, my sister and I decided to visit his church and check things out for ourselves--sort of a reconnaissance mission. We were nervous and a little scared, which annoyed me. Why should I be frightened of them? I was about to expose their deception. The church was probably after my brother's hard-earned money. Like that movie "Invasion of the Body Snatchers," they had stolen my real brother, the little brother I'd grown up with and replaced him with pew-jumpin' Howdy Doody. And my big sister sensibilities would never stand for that. Look out church!

Then something strange happened. Sitting there in church during the service. . .I felt something. So did my sister. Like a wind, but there was no wind. A peace warmer than any blanket. An electricity in the air. The presence of love. My sister and I sat in silence through the service. We could not speak--all we could do was feel.

That day, I knew when we left our pews that there was something more to my brother's conversion than smoke and mirrors. There was definitely something more. My sister felt it too.

Months went by. Life began to unravel in half a dozen ways. An eye exam revealed that the pressure in my eyes was high for some reason. The eye doctor was concerned about the possibility of glacoma. That same week, a routine pap smear came back positive and the op/gyn doctor called me in to talk about further tests. Then I was laid off from my job. All in all, not a good week.

I'd come out of a painful separation, had filed for divorce and was trying to make a new life for myself. I'd studied different philosophies and settled on the "we're all one Jung" collective spirit idea. Of course, meditation, reincarnation, new age and many other schools of thought seemed to fit right in. I was trying to use these techniques and beliefs to change my circumstances, help me quit smoking etc. But in the midst of my new crisis, not one of them offered me the comfort or peace I needed. Distraught, I decided to visit my parents and talk to them about it. While I was there I mentioned it to my brother, who to my surprise, immediately began to pray for me!

No one had ever prayed with me over a personal situation before. Sure I'd heard prayers or prayer templates before, but they were all-purpose kinds of prayers people repeated or recited half-heartedly. The prayer my brother prayed was for me and though I didn't believe it would truly do me any good, it somehow made me feel a little better. Before I left, my brother asked me a question. "If there is a heaven and a hell and you died today, where do you think you would go?"

While driving home I tried my best to answer it. Of course, my body would enrich the soil and my soul, mind or whatever you want to call it, would join the collective consciousness. Then, perhaps I would be reborn, incarnated into a different life form. Maybe even an insect. Wow. That was really something to look forward to. I had asked my brother where he thought he was going when he died. "I'll be with Jesus for all eternity, filled with His love--in heaven where there are no shadows, no tears and no more suffering." And he believed it with as strong a conviction as my own. But the truth shouted within me. Those old beliefs were crumbling under the weight of God's truth.

In the car that day, as I pulled into my driveway, I decided that as soon as I went through the door of my apartment, I was going to give Jesus a try. After all, I'd tried everything else! And what comfort had those beliefs brought me? What hope? My brother had told me about the sinner's prayer on more than one occasion and I tried hard to remember the words.

I couldn't wait to turn the key in the lock. As soon as the door shut behind me, I sank to my knees. Not knowing exactly what to say, I decided to talk to him instead. "Jesus, if you're out there and you're real, please hear me. I'm a sinner. . ." As soon as I said the word, I began to cry. "My brother told me that I should confess my sins and repent. So I'm a sinner and I've done a lot of things wrong in my life and I ask your forgiveness. Please, if you are real, please come into my heart right now. Amen"

When I said the final word, "Amen," I felt as though a heavy weight lifted from my body. I like to say it was the shackles of sin that fell off of me, but all I know is that I suddenly felt light as a feather and happy! So very happy! In fact, I was so happy, it took me two weeks to realize I hadn't touched a cigarette. My sister clued me in to it.

"Hey, I noticed you haven't been smoking lately." She'd always hated the smell of nicotine and tried to help me quit. I'd tried many times, but only managed to reduce the amount of cigarettes I smoked. Now I was free in more ways than one. Jesus gave me the free gift of eternal life and a bonus for signing on--he'd delivered me from a nicotine addiction. Just like that! No withdrawals. No cravings. No desire to ever smoke again.

I was set free! Born again! And the Lord healed my eyes. The pressure returned to normal at my next appointment. The next pap smear was perfect. And so was I.

Jesus saves, heals, protects and delivers!

It didn't take me long to dig into the bible my brother gave me to celebrate my new life in Christ. And I started telling everyone about MY new best friend, especially my family. My sister and her boyfriend (who later became her husband) were next to believe, then my mother and my father was last. I have a special story about his salvation testimony and it's in the Babes With A Beatitude book. If you're interested, I hope you'll read the february 14th page.

We began a whole new heritage in the Lord. Our family will never ever be the same. Our family tree is now rooted in Christ. Is yours? If you can relate to even part of what I shared from my testimony, then let me testify to you right now--it's all true! And if Jesus did all this for me, how much more will He do it for you! He loves you. He truly does. I wake up every morning knowing I am loved by God and I lay my head down on my pillow with the same truth. Do you? Well, what are you waiting for?

Note:

What I'm going to say next might sound a bit controversial, so bear with me. Smoking cigarettes isn't going to send anyone to hell. It may send them to their grave prematurely but not to hell. They will definitely SMELL like they've been there though. . .

Personally, I don't think Christians should smoke. It's a bad witness, not God-honoring and it destroys your body made in His image. So there.

Love didn't really trust today - By Danielle Francoise

2009-09-26T22:28:00.000-07:00

I work in retail, and as a result there are always lots of stories to tell about the people I encounter. Tonight, a man came in with his two year-old son to return a defective item. This should have been an easy return, but unfortunately there were some problems, and it was wrapped up in no less than 30 minutes. I could tell that he was frustrated, and knowing that I was doing everything possible, I apologized a few times. Near the end of it all, he asked me if I was a Christian. I nodded and smiled, and replied that yes I am. He eventually went home satisfied with his new purchases and a free coke and I went on my way.

What struck me later is the real story here...When he asked me if I was a Christian, I first wondered if he was trying to finesse or sneak something past me. I immediately assumed he was going to try and use that against me somehow. Maybe I was right, maybe I wasn't. Regardless, I was convicted about it.

I wondered if I was really too quick to assume things, or if it hadn't gone his way if he'd tried something. But really I wondered what my response would've been, had he tried. Was it weakness that made me assume the worst, or is this world so fallen, that even the most perfect love can be used in the wrong way?

In it all, I realize that, no matter what...I am called to love. If that is how the Lord will grow and shape me today, then so be it. Today, God reminded me of the following...

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy,

it does not boast, it is not proud.

It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered,

it keeps no record of wrongs.

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Love never fails. (1 Cor 8)

We know that God is love, and his name can replace "Love" throughout that familiar passage, but did I let Him live through me in a way today that it could have been my name? Was I patient and kind, not envious or proud? I don't think love trusted today. As simple as it all sounds, it seems the closer I get to Him, the more He challenges me.

I pray that for today and the rest of our tomorrows, we can go out and simply love...and be loved by Him. Let the simplicity of that sink in until it becomes so deep, and so rich, and so wonderful that there's nothing else that matters. I pray that God just blows you away by how much he cares for you. Be blessed!!

Written with Fire--by Danielle

2009-09-25T09:20:00.000-07:00

I had a dream from awhile back I'd like to share...

I am one of the Hollywood A-list crowd. I am a person that people look to for style and fashion tips...they depend on us for our life stories and encouragement. This evening, I was all dressed up and felt beautiful, mingling with the "beautiful people" that are there in LA at a large, hip event. I find myself involved with this crazy group of people, worldly and part of the "in-croud". There's laughter and glamour and splendor... The night goes on and I realize I'm not feeling good about these people, this situation...any of it. Then, it's all over. I suppose it's morning because the sun's out again. I'm walking out and that wild group of people is calling out to me...I look over at all the craziness and really see what it is. Those "beautiful people" had lost their outer appearance of beauty and glamour...It was like the light was revealing their true selves - and it was ugly. My mind got really loud, it was traffic, music and lots of light. I remember thinking, "wow I don't know how I got tangled up with these people..."

All of a sudden...silence and darkness...

Then, a moment later, written with fire across the darkness, I read,

"BUT DO THEY KNOW ME?"

Then I woke up and sat up.

Wow. I had this dream about a year ago and still, it sticks with me. What amazing truth that God speaks through dreams! "But do they know me?"...that's the biggest question of all. I may not be on the Hollywood "A-List", but I definitely have people around me that don't know Christ!

Notes on John--Chapter One

2009-09-22T19:36:00.000-07:00

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God."--John 1:1-2.

The focus of the Gospel of John is evangelism! In fact, John says it best in chapter 20 ". . .but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing, you may have life in His name."--John 20:31. Believe and have life! This should be our focus as believers as well--to share the good news with others that they may believe and have eternal life!

Jesus was, is and ever shall be! He created the world, brought life and light to us and was rejected by his own creation.

People always cry for a sign from God in order to believe, but the woman at the well had no such sign--just the words of Christ. In fact, all the Samaritans who heard and believed did so without a sign!

Jesus heals the lame man
Jesus feeds the 5,000 to illustrate He is the Bread of Life
Jesus is the Living Water
Jesus is the Light of the World
Jesus is the Good Shepherd
Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life
Jesus is the King of Kings!

Simon means "unsteady, untrustworthy and not-dependable," but God changed Peter into a stable rock. Jesus changed water into wine and He changes us from creatures judged by the law into sons and daughters of grace.

God reveals Himself to us in time spend alone with Him. Have you spent time alone with Him today?

Some Thoughts on John. . .

2009-09-15T14:48:00.000-07:00

Our Babes Bible Study launched a new semester today in Houston with a study on the Book of John titled, "Forward to Eternity."

Each woman was encouraged to share a favorite scripture from John and its relevance to her life. Click the comment line below to browse their thoughts or leave a comment of your own:)

Here's mine:

"For He whom God sent speaks the words of God, for God does not give the Spirit by measure. . .."--John 3:34.

I really like this scripture because God the Father wants us to live in the fullness of His Spirit. He does not dole out His love or grace in portions or leave us to figure things out for ourselves. He has given us all that we need to live a righteous, fully-committed life--His own Son!

Before I knew Jesus, I always felt alone--even in a crowd of people--I felt there was something missing. But I've never felt alone since--whether I'm around other people or not. I would not trade one moment of my life before Christ for my life now!

Sour Cream/Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake

2009-09-05T18:49:00.000-07:00

My Mom-in-law, Marge Kozar gave me this recipe years ago. The whole family love, love, loves it because it's YUMMY. Great with, you guessed it "coffee" or an ice cold glass of milk. Perfect for Bible studies and church gatherings. We enjoy it sometimes at our Babes With A Beatitude Bible Study although some of us feel kind of guilty eating dessert in the morning (just kidding). It's delish--who cares?

Sour Cream/Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake

Spray a Bundt pan or glass baking dish with cooking spray. Next, prepare ingredients in 3 different bowls. Bowl Two and Bowl Three are dry ingredients. Blend them together before you begin on Bowl One as you will need to add the mixtures to it.

Bowl One (Batter) Bowl Two (Dry ingred.) Bowl Three (Topping)

1/4 cup butter 2 cups flour 1/2 cup brown sugar

1 cup sugar 1 tsp baking soda 1/2 cup chpd pecans

2 eggs 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp cinnamon

1 cup sour cream 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 bag chocolate chips

1 tsp vanilla

If you have an electric mixer, beat the first 2 ingredients in Bowl One on medium speed for 10 minutes (no more, no less--*very important or the cake won't rise properly), and add the sour cream and vanilla right at the end. Then, set the speed on slow and begin adding the dry ingredients from Bowl Two to Bowl One by large spoonfuls until the ingredients of both bowls are fully mixed. The batter will be sticky--which is the consistency you are going for.

Next, if using a Bundt pan, begin to spoon the batter from Bowl One and the dry ingredients from Bowl Three alternately into the pan. Set aside enough of the topping for the very last layer. (If using a glass baking dish, just spread the batter using a spoon or spatula to evenly fill the dish, then sprinkle the topping from Bowl Three on top (my preferred method of baking this cake).

Then, bake 45 minutes at 350 degrees. Enjoy!

My Little Man is Growing Up--by Jill McKechnie

2009-08-28T11:59:00.000-07:00

School started this week. it's been a bittersweet time for me, with my oldest son beginning junior high. So many memories, long forgotten, have come to mind.

Today, I was listening to the Allman Brothers while I was cleaning. Those songs, though not the most spiritual, nevertheless bring back such memories for me. Memories of a time of emotional highs and lows; everything in life seemed incredibly wonderful, or absolutely tragic. I felt on the cusp of something new and exciting, just waiting for me. Where did those times go?

I remember my first kiss. I was at someone's birthday party, sitting with a boy in my class that I liked. He just reached over and kissed me. Afterwards, I looked around, amazed that no one else had noticed! Rockets had gone off, an orchestra was playing - how could everyone act so normal? I remember my dad picking me up at the end of the party, asking me about how things went, did I enjoy my self, how was it, etc. "What is he talking about?" I thought. "Can't he read my mind and see that I've just had my first real kiss? Good grief!"

Ah, love. Now my oldest son is starting seventh grade. He's on the cusp of something new. Of changes, and thrills, and agonies he only dreamt of before. My heart aches for him already, even though he hasn't yet experienced his first love. All I can do, and it is enough, is pray for him. Pray that he will continue on the straight and narrow; pray that he will find a deeper relationship with Jesus; pray that he will have strength to overcome obstacles that may come his way. Pray that at the right time (when he's about 30), the right one will come along.

A bittersweet time. I'm going to try to savor every moment.

The Little Foxes--by Linda P. Kozar

2009-08-26T18:06:00.001-07:00

Song of Solomon 2:15 (Amplified Bible) My heart was touched and I fervently sang to him my desire] Take for us the foxes, the little foxes that spoil the vineyards [of our love], for our vineyards are in blossom.

The little foxes do spoil the vine, don't they? Life's little worries are the worst. But Satan attacks most often as a little fox, not as a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour.

Some say problems come in threes, and it is true that little problems seem to come in bundles, but not randomly. These problems come by design. The enemy knows that a barrage of little problems can easily add up to a big problem for YOU. It takes very little time and effort on his part to make a Christian feel overwhelmed. Often, the first thing to go in a situation like that is a believer's prayer life. With the shield of faith down, it is easy for all those fiery darts to wound.

The enemy will often use random people to irritate and upset you. Like the gum chomping girl at the doctor's office who takes forever to check you in because she's too busy texting. Or the busy salesperson who averts his/her eyes from you instead of acknowledging and saying he/she will be right with you. Or the neighbors who borrow your utensils or tools and never return them.

But Satan's favorite tools to use against you are those closest to you. Christians are the most effective tool of all. Your family. Your church. Your friends. A stranger can only hurt you to a limited extent. But someone who is close to you can deliver a mortal blow. Because they are close to you. Because you trust them.

The little foxes merely prepare the way for the final wound. Weakened and wounded, a Christian is an easy target for such an attack. If you cannot trust God for the small problems in life, how then can you expect to trust Him for the big ones?

As to the course of action--that's simple. Whatever your reaction to the annoyance or hurtful situation is, do the opposite!

*Forgive and move on. Go about your Father's business.
*Choose to love instead of hate. Remember that love covers a multitude of sins.
*Laugh! A merry heart doath good! It is medicine to the soul and health to the bones.
*Spend time in your Word. The Word of God (The Bible) is the ultimate weapon against the enemy. And you WILL overcome the enemy only through the Word of God.

Have you ever laid your head on the pillow at night only to hear the annoying buzz of a relentless mosquito? All the thrashing, swatting and grabbing the air in the dark profits you nothing. Even with the light on, a mosquito is sometimes hard to find, but definitely easier to locate than in the dark. Your light is God's Word.

Remember this--the Little Foxes cannot destroy the vine, but they can nip at the fruit. This week, leave a bad taste in the enemy's mouth. Do the opposite of what he expects. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. And send those little foxes packing!

Change, it is a comin'

2009-07-24T11:34:00.000-07:00

How do you feel about change? Is it good, bad or otherwise? Regardless of how we feel about change as individuals, it is a part of life.

Recently, I had a chance to discover this for myself. My mom was visiting earlier this summer, and I realized that she was changing. Not anything catastrophic, just little things. She's a little more forgetful than she used to be, a little more confused. At times, I felt that I was being the parent to her. Mom and I have had our moments of strife and disagreement, but we've always been close. Now I felt our relationship changing a little bit. I wasn't comfortable with this change at all. "Why do I have to act like the parent?" I thought. "She's the parent, not me!"

Role reversals are not comfortable, but then change is often challenging. This summer, I've realized that my life may not look like my mom's. Since I've been a little girl, when I've thought about the future, I always envisioned my life being like my mothers'. I'd get married around twenty-five, have kids in my early thirties, Purchase my dream house around forty, and then my children and grandchildren would flock to our home every year (or every other year) at Christmas. Life would revolve around church, kids, and maybe a few hobbies, like painting.

As I've become older, that dream has started to fade a little, crumble around the edges. Yes, I was married around 25, kids early 30s, but other things haven't worked out exactly as I planned. I finally realized that my life isn't necessarily destined to be a carbon copy of my parents. God may have something completely different in store.

Just last week, I was struggling with changes. Then I remembered 1 Corinthians 13:12 "Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known." As I turned the pages of my bible, I realized that I HAD been "looking thru a glass darkly". I was so focused on the difficulties of the here and now, that I was completely missing the big picture. So what if my husband and I don't buy a dream house just like my parents? So what if I'm not the amazing artist my mother is. God has a plan for me. His plan is not the same as my mother's or brother's or my friends. So if I see them achieve something that I have dreamed for myself or my children, I don't need to fret, or be jealous. The Lord is a good God. A righteous God. And He cares for us.

What a revelation! It may have been obvious to all of you out there, but I was just realizing, God has a whole plan for our lives.

It's like a beautiful tapestry, where the strands of pain and suffering are woven into the whole. The individual threads may look scrawny and ugly by themselves, but when they are woven into the tapestry they add a depth and beauty that wasn't previously there.

When I look at my current struggles, or my pain,I'm seeing a cloudy image, a confused reflection. At the end of my life, or maybe in heaven, I will see clearly that God had a plan all along.

Join me in praising God for His goodness to us, and that one day we WILL see Him face to face and understand His plan for us.

The Wall of Dead Animals--by Linda Kozar

2009-07-12T12:33:00.000-07:00

One weekend, on the way to Dannelle's parent's church in Victoria, Texas, four of us stopped for a bite at a BBQ place along the way. It looked like a perfectly normal place from the outside, but as soon as we stepped inside, I saw the Wall of Dead Animals!

Talk about an ice-breaker. Although the four of us, Karen Mayer Cunningham, Kate Young, Dannelle Woody and me (Linda Kozar) didn't need an ice breaker, especially with Karen and her jokes (hehe). Anyway, we were sort of whooper-jawed by the sight of so much extreme taxidermy in one room. And later, I got to thinking. . .

Why were we so taken back by the sight of all those dead stuffed animals when there are spiritually dead people who walk among us every day? This may come as a shock to you, but people who don't know the Lord are dead spiritually. We work with them, go to school--our kids are in sports together. They're in our neighborhood, even our church! YOU might even be one of them.

This week, I challenge you to look around at all the people around you who need to hear about Jesus and truly see them. Look beyond the pleasant facades and see the deep need, how they sorrow and struggle, the pain behind the smiles and the loneliness. . . People need Jesus desperately, but don't know Him or don't know anything about Him. Some have never set foot in a church.

Or, take a look at your own life. Have you lived a God-honoring life? Tried different ways to God, or even worshipped different Gods, but have been unfulfilled? You may have tried everything else life has to offer, drugs, alcohol, etc. or every weird and wacky religion out there except for Jesus. You stopped short when it came to Jesus. You tried everything else without blinking an eye. Why?

After you've looked around and seen the need--what next? You tell them. Tell them about Jesus. In a real way. Not a condescending or cliche' way. But real. Friend to friend. Love people like Jesus loves people. Love them enough to care what happens to them. Love them enough to risk rejection or persecution. Love them in spite of what they say. Love them enough to tell the absolute truth--that Jesus is Lord.

Acts 16:31 ". . .Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house."

Here's a simple sinner's prayer:

Dear Jesus, I need You. I know I'm a sinner. Please forgive me of all my sins against You. I don't want to live for my flesh, I want to live for You. I want to be one of Your saints and for You to write my name in Your Lamb's Book of life. Come into my heart right now Lord Jesus and fill my life with more and more of You. I get off the throne of my life and ask You to sit on that throne instead, where You rightfully belong. Amen.

I want to hear from you! When you lead someone to Christ, I want to do the Snoopy dance with you! So leave a comment please.

If any of you are interested in seeing the wall of dead animals for inspiration, the address is below (and those people cook up some killer BBQ too) Yummers.

Mikesea's BBQ

4225 Hwy. 59 and Blue Creek Road, El Campo, TX

Phone: (979)-543-8252 or 1-800-388-2552

The Loser Cruiser--by Linda Kozar

2009-06-20T21:50:00.001-07:00

When Babes With A Beatitude releases in December, you'll get to read all about my Loser Cruiser! That's a VAN to the uninitiated. A standard Mommy mobile!

Mine is a 2000 Toytota Sienna with lots of mom miles on it. I drove the girls to soccer, basketball, baseball, swim and tennis practices, gymnastics, dance, art and music lessons, movies, the mall and everything in between.

I'm quite certain there are runaway French fries and Cheerios in the dark chasms between the seats. Milkshakes and orange sodas left permanent stains on the carpet. The leather seats are worn and cracked. The door handle on the left passenger side comes right off! There's a picture of me holding it in my hand! Take a gander at that!

Don't get me wrong--I've loved every minute in my loser cruiser, but feel that it's time to think about trading it in. My kids are grown up and I've grown out of the need to drive a van. I'm ready for something sporty, fun and RED! Maybe polka dot! Or Leopard! WOOHOO.

But not quite yet. I'm still teaching my 16 year old to drive. That's where owning a loser cruiser comes in handy!

The thing I love most about my cruiser though are my RAPTURE READY FISH on the back of the VAN. That's right. Like many other Christian families out there, I express my faith to the world by attaching a silver metal fish, one for each member of my family, (the Biggest One represents Jesus) to the rear bumper of my vehicle. HOWEVER, with me, there's always a twist!

I pointed my fish facing upward. WHY? Because they're ready for Jesus to come back and RAPTURE them! Do I hear an AMEN???

So let me know what you think. I hope that many of you will feel inspired enough to slap some RAPTURE READY fish to your vehicle.

WOO HOO! Jesus is coming back!!!

Summer--and the living's easy. . .by Linda Kozar

2009-06-16T08:15:00.000-07:00

When I think of lazy summer days, I can't help remembering many summers past. The sun-washed picture above is from a family vacation a year ago--in Destin, Florida. Michael, the girls and I were on a virtually deserted beach at sunset--like we were the only people in the whole entire world. As the sun began to descend, it embellished everything with a golden glow--a true Midas touch. Even the shells looked glorious!

In the cast of that golden light, I thought about the Lord and how His light changes the way we look at everything. The very moment a person is born again, the world begins to look different and so do we. In fact, nothing will never look the same again. The lens of God's love has a very different focus. When we see people with the love of Christ, compassion wells up inside. When we look upon our Father's world, we see its infinite beauty and complexity.

So today, whether you stand alone upon a windswept beach, upon a majestic mountain with a breathtaking panorama below, or in a lawn chair by a kiddie pool, rejoice in the light of the Lord and in the day He has made for you.

"Arise, shine; for your light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen on you" Isaiah 60:1 KJV

Traveling Thoughts

2009-06-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

Last week, my husband and I took a trip to Washington, D.C. There was much to see and do, and we wanted to do it all! We rushed around, trying to take in as many museums, monuments, and special exhibits that we could find. No matter how hard we tried, though, we weren't able to fit everything into the time slot allotted.

On the last day, we had a few hours before heading to the airport. After getting our breakfast coffee and scone, we took a seat in the shop by a big plate glass window. Gazing on the mass of humanity rushing by, we saw many people who seemed on their way to do busy and important things. A jogger, intense in his concentration, shutting out the world with his iphone, and looking only ahead as he focused on his destination. A young businesswoman, her hair perfectly styled, dressed professionally, and having a serious conversation with her male colleague as they were off to solve the world's problems.

And then, we noticed something else. A young family across the street. A mom, dad, and baby in a stroller. They seemed so happy, as they slowly meandered down the road. Looking as if they had nowhere in particular to go, but happy just the same, enjoying just being together on a week-end morning.

I realized we hadn't been much different than all those other bustling, busy Washingtonians. Even though we were on vacation, we were rushing around like the world would come to an end if we didn't see this exhibit, or that monument. When instead, we could have been enjoying the moment. The sun on our faces, the freedom to not have to be anywhere or do anything in particular.

Isn't that what God wants for us? He doesn't speak in the earthquake, but in the still, small voice. He wants us to stop rushing around, be still, and listen to Him.

"Instead, I have calmed and quieted myself,

like a weaned child who no longer cries for it's mother's milk.

Yes, like a weaned child is my soul within me."

Psalm 131:2

Musings on a Last School Lunch--by Linda Kozar

2009-06-02T05:52:00.000-07:00

At 6:00 this morning as I stumbled out of bed, I realized that today--Tuesday, June 2nd is a milestone. It is the day I make my Senior her very last school lunch. The last day I pack a familiar brown bag with an apple, homemade oatmeal cookies, pretzels, a fruit roll-up and a peanut butter 'n jelly sandwich. . .the culmination of 12 years.

So I sat down to write my daughter a special note. It's not the first time I've tucked a special note into her lunch, but today will be the last. . .

Here it is:

Lunch Bag Blues

Ham, turkey, peanut butter and jelly--even pasta salad I've packed in your lunch,

'Cause I am your mother

And I love you a BUNCH,

Now this is the last one

Enjoy it my honey,

Now you have to go into the world and make money!

(after college, that is),

So when you eat a Hot Pocket

in your messy dorm room,

Think of the lunches I packed for noon,

They were packed with goodies

from below to above,

But the most important part of your lunch

was my love.

Love you forever my honeybunch!

Mom

Am I done with making lunches? No way. I have two more years of lunches to make for my youngest daughter. And I will relish every minute of it!

Pictures From Our Flip Flop Exchange!

2009-05-28T13:24:00.001-07:00

(From Left: Linda, Maria, Dannielle, Margaret, Jill, Beth)
(From Left: Jill and Beth)
Dannelle tries her flops on for size!

Susan! Connie!

2009-05-28T09:47:00.000-07:00

A Flowery flip flop Sonnet

Hello ladies! Our babes group just had our annual flip flop exchange, and it inspired me to write a little something about one of my favorite summer accessories.

I love flip-flops. There's something about them that signals summertime and happy days....the gentle flap, flap of rubber hitting concrete; the fresh air tickling my feet; all those pretty, painted toenails coming out of hiding....kids and adults running screaming from the fire ants (Oops! Sorry, I think that's just in Texas). Ok, even with the fire ants, I STILL love flip flops, so here goes:

How do I love my flip flops, let me count the ways:

I love them in the summer, when my feet are fancy-free;

I love them in the winter, in Houston, you will see;

I love them in the springtime, even in the rain;

I love them in the fall, though the days are on the wane.

I love them when it's sunny, 'cuz my feet get toasty tan.

I love them when it's cloudy, I can still be somewhat glam.

I love them when it's raining, they won't fall all apart.

My flip flops, I love you, you're dear to my heart!

Enjoy!

Our Second-to-Last Study of the Spring Semester!

2009-05-27T19:17:00.000-07:00

(From left top): Beth, Margaret,

(Bottom): Jill, Mensure', Connie, Kate

(Below): Linda in the middle

Our Babes With A Beatitude study last week at Beth's beautiful home. We squeezed in two chapters of Revelation, then adjoured to the dining room to choose scrapbook supplies from a catalogue for a mission friend overseas. She wants to work on card crafts with the local ladies.

We headed out from there to a delicious TexMex lunch at Rico's.#

This past Tuesday, we completed our study of the Book of Revelation. It was an uplifting, utterly amazing year, studying end-time events--one that none of us will ever forget.

Afterward, we exchanged summer flip flops with one another. Hopefully, some of the Babes who took foot pictures will post them! C'mon ladies!

Then we went to lunch at Buca d'Pepo's and since there were ten of us--were able to sit in the Pope room! There's just nothing like a poly-resin image of the pope encased in plexyglass resting atop a lazy susan, to ramp up the excitement over lunch. . .hehe

Our immediate goal was not to eat--but to make our solemn waiter crack a smile! We were about to say grace when the young man came into the room and asked if we needed anything else. Dannelle, a mischievous twinkle in her eye, asked him, "Wanna say grace?" To our surprise, he immediately agreed and a small smile lit up his face. Turns out he was a devout young Christian who happened to be in a serious mood that day. From that point on though, he smiled A LOT!

Keep visiting the Babes Blog and Web Site! We'll get those pictures up soon!

Blessings--Linda

Confessions of a (Mostly) Happy Childhood

2009-05-22T06:45:00.000-07:00

What are you thankful for from your childhood? Think back, on things big or little, and ponder how God was with you as a child, shepherding you, and nurturing you, with his loving care.

Growing up in a lovely, old neighborhood in a mid-size town in Oklahoma, I had a childhood pretty much like many other Americans. Dinner at the same time every night, regardless of whether we were hungry or not, watching Carol Burnett and Bob Newhart on TV on Saturday nights, playing on the "jungle-gym" in an elementary school yard.

I certainly had nothing to complain of, well-fed and clothed.....except for one thing. I lived on a dead-end street where there were no other children to play with. Because there weren't any other kids around, I learned how to entertain myself. I played with all the neighbors' dogs that I could, and if the grown-ups were outside working in the garden I'd pester them to death until they let me join in their activities.

One neighbor, in particular, was very accomodating. She and her husband allowed me to have free reign in her backyard, which was wonderful. They had a double lot, with the back part being a wide open field. Her property was filled with unusual trees, shrubs, and flowers, a perfect setting for a magic kingdom. Of course this made for endless possibilities for my imagination. I spent many hours being a fairy princess reigning over her subjects: all the plants, and animals, especially the dogs!

The most wondrous thing about this particular neighbor, however, was the basement in her house. It was filled with childrens' books, old hand puppets, and all kinds of tchotchkes to catch the interest of a nine year old girl. I spent hours down there in the summer, soaking up the stories in the books, from Russian fairy tales to "How to take care of your Pomeranian."

Most of the time, I was a regular kid, just trying to get through school, (and figure out how to get out of my chores!) Not much power over her life. But at my neighbors' house I was transformed into Wendy or Dorothy or whoever I wanted to be. Those childhood experiences have shaped me in ways I never imagined. Today, I still love to read and escape from the humdrum of life by writing and reading.

What about you? Do you have a special place or memory of your childhood? Even in the most difficult times the Lord will provide a light for us. What did He provide for you? Remember and be thankful to him. God can use our experiences, no matter what they are, to grow and mature us to be more like Him.

Ode to Little Debbie Spinwheels--By Jill McKechnie

2009-05-14T06:37:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know this isn't exactly a devotional, but with summer coming up, and childhood memories returning, I thought, why not?

Little Debbie Spinwheels, your looks are so fine,

When I hold you in my hand, I feel so divine,

your dough is exquisite, your flavor so tasty,

Brown sugar & cinnamon so crunchy and flaky;

Little Debbie Spinwheels I'm glad you are mine,

I savor every bite when I'm in a bind;

your middle, how gooey, your color, how pretty

Peeling away your goodness makes me quite dizzy

Little Debbie I've loved you since I was a kid,

But if I gain weight, from you I'll be hid!

ANNUAL FLIP FLOP EXCHANGE!

2009-05-09T07:54:00.000-07:00

Dear Babes,

Before our spring Bible study on the Book of Revelation ends this month, we're going to have a Flip Flop Exchange Lunch!

Email your shoe size to me privately and on Tuesday, May 26th we'll have lunch after our last meeting and exchange our flip flops. Last year we waited till August to exchange them, but it makes more sense to exchange them now, as summer is almost upon us.

SO email those shoe sizes to me ASAP and I will jumble them all up and assign you someone to buy for.

Blessings--

Linda

Looking to the past, as we prepare for the future

2009-05-07T11:26:00.000-07:00

Back in 1992, my grandmother had recently died, and I took a week off from work to spend time with family, especially my granddad. I think the passing of his wife had got him to thinking of times past, so on Memorial Day week-end, we took a literal trip down memory lane. Mom and I drove to central Oklahoma, and met my granddad. It was a precious time, visiting his former home, driving by the fields of broom corn where he had toiled to earn extra money, and visiting the cemetery where his grandparents were buried. He told us many stories of his growing-up years, but one in particular stood out.

My grandfather and his sister walked to school every day, about two to three miles both ways. One winter day they set off for school, just as usual, coats buttoned up, lunch pails in hand. It started snowing and became colder and colder.

Granddad's father realized that conditions were becoming dangerous, and set out to look for his children. He found them crying and frightened, standing in the snow because they couldn't go any further.

That story really touched me. How a loving father, concerned for his children, comes to their rescue. Isn't that what God does for us? He will not abandon us. In these challenging, difficult times, we need to remember that when we feel we can't go on any longer, the Lord will be there. He will help us and take care of us.

Hebrews 13:5b,6 "...because God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.' So we say with confidence, 'The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?'"

Graduation Blues!

2009-04-29T08:42:00.000-07:00

To all the moms who have seniors graduating this spring, my heart goes out to you! Here's a picture of mine!

Easter Cookies All Year Long--Jill McKecknie

2009-04-12T21:31:00.000-07:00

Jill sent this wonderful recipe. Don't wait for Easter to introduce this concept to your children! It's such a sweet representation of Christ's love for us!--Linda

Cookies for Easter to be made the evening before Easter.

You will need:
to preheat oven to 300 degrees (this is important - don't wait until you're half done with the recipe)!

1 cup whole pecans
1 tsp. Vinegar
3 egg whites
Pinch salt
1 cup sugar
Zipper baggie
Wooden spoon
Tape
Bible

Place pecans in zipper baggie and let children beat them with the wooden spoon to break into small pieces. Explain that after Jesus was arrested. He was beaten by the Roman soldiers.
Read John 19:1-3.

Let each child smell the vinegar. Put 1 tsp. Vinegar into mixing bowl. Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross, He was given vinegar to drink.
Read John 19:28-30.

Add egg whites to vinegar. Eggs represent life.
Explain that Jesus gave His life to give us life.
Read John 10:10-11.

Sprinkle a little salt into each child's hand. Let them taste it and brush the rest into the bowl. Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus' followers, and the bitterness of our own sin.
Read Luke 23:27.

So far, the ingredients are not very appetizing. Add 1 cup sugar. Explain that the sweetest part of the
story is that Jesus died because He loves us. He wants us to know and belong to Him.
Read Palms 34:8 and John 3:16.

Beat with a mixer on high speed for 12 to 15 minutes until stiff peaks are formed. Explain that the color white Represents -- in
God's eyes -- the purity of those whose sins have been cleansed by Jesus.
Read Isaiah 1:18 and John 3:1-3.

Fold in broken nuts. Drop by teaspoons onto wax paper-covered cookie sheet. Explain that each mound
represents the rocky tomb where Jesus' body! was laid.
Read Matt. 27:57-60.

Put the cookie sheet in the oven, close the door and turn the oven OFF.

Give each child a piece of tape and seal the oven door. Explain that Jesus' tomb was sealed.
Read Matt. 27:65-66.

GO TO BED! Explain that they may feel sad to leave the cookies in the oven overnight. Jesus' followers were in despair when the tomb was sealed.
Read John 16:20 and 22.

On Easter morning, open the oven and give everyone a cookie.

Notice the cracked surface and take a20bite. The cookies are hollow!

On the first Easter, Jesus' followers were amazed to
find the tomb open and empty.
Read Matt. 28:1-9

Share The Easter Cookie Story With Friends and Family

The Power of the Empty Tomb--by Linda Kozar

2009-04-10T17:26:00.000-07:00

In the final three hours Jesus hung on the cross, darkness hung over the land, symbolic of the spiritual darkness in the hearts of men and the absolute darkness of sin upon all of mankind. But when Jesus yielded up his spirit on the cross at Golgotha, three most notable things happened.

Matthew 27: 51 "And behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom; and the earth quaked and the rocks were split." First, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The veil was not a gossamer-thin cloth one might imagine when the word "veil" is mentioned, but inches thick, strong and sturdy, sort of like a phone book. The veil was meant to keep people out and God in! Except for one priest chosen by lot to enter once a year. But now God and man would no longer separated by sin!

Second, the earth quaked and the rocks were split. An earthquake strong enough to split rocks into pieces would surely have caused more extensive damage. When Jesus breathed His last breath on earth and paid for all our sins, a monumental change in the universe occurred. Death, Hell and the grave were conquered. For mankind that meant and means complete victory over the bondage of sin!

Third, in Matthew 27:52-43, "The graves were opened and many of the bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised; and coming out of the graves after the resurrection, they went into the holy city and appeared to many." Can you imagine that? Hollywood always skips over that part in Biblical movies! Maybe it's too incredible even for them!

But here's something even more incredible. Take a look in Exodus. "And Moses took the bones of Joseph with him, for he had placed the children of Israel under solumne oath saying, 'God will surely visit you, and you shall carry up my bones from here with you.'"--Exodus 13:19. Though Joseph's body was prepared in the manner of the Egyptians, he left explicit instructions before he died, that someday when his people left Egypt, they would carry his bones with them. Why? Was it simply a desire for his bones to rest in the presence of his people? Most likely--yes. But perhaps God had given Joseph something more--a glimpse of things to come, or a revelation in his heart. Regardless, the bones of Joseph left Egypt and traveled with the children of Israel until they settled in the Promised Land. And there, just as he expressed in his last desire, Joseph was buried...

What if Joseph was among those who's graves were opened during the earthquake? What if Joseph's body was resurrected? Can you imagine seeing Joseph walking around town, perhaps arrayed in his famous coat of many colors?

But if seeing Joseph come to life turned heads, imagine three days later seeing Jesus rise from the grave!

Jesus defeated death, Hell and the grave for us. That open grave is also symbolic of our own--your grave and mine. Eternal death no longer rules over us. All those who receive the gift of eternal life in Christ Jesus will not be bound by a grave. No grave can ever hold us! Your eternal life began the moment you asked Jesus into your heart!

Thank you Jesus for sacrificing Your life for us. Forgiving us and for giving us eternal life!

The Holy Trinity

2009-04-03T05:53:00.001-07:00

Explain your understanding of the Holy Trinity--Father, Son and Holy Ghost. How did you come to that understanding. Be sure to use scripture:)

God's way is better than Burger King's

2009-03-18T04:59:00.000-07:00

I don't really even like Burger King, but they've been telling the public for years that the offering is theirs. I know you can hear the jiggle...."have it your way....at Burger King"! God certainly allows us to have it our way, but our way is not HIS way, and HIS way is ALWAYS better.

"And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28 NIV)

Even from the beginnings of blessings, Abraham had it his way instead of God's way by having a son with Hagar instead of his "barren" wife Sarah. God still worked for good as He gave Abraham a son, Issac, trhough Sarah. And in Abraham's obedience this time with Issac, God blessed him beyond Abraham's comprehension surely.

Genesis 22:16-18 (New International Version)16 and said, "I swear by myself, declares the LORD, that because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will surely bless you and make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as the sand on the seashore. Your descendants will take possession of the cities of their enemies, and through your offspring all nations on earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed me."

God has shown me over the course of the last 2 years, and more as I've grasped the last few weeks how my whole life has had many Burger King relationships. My mother constantly told, me, "you can't do that" perhaps because it was something that wasn't socially acceptable in her eyes. I never set out to hurt people, but I was a non-conformist, who just saw things in a different way. I generally followed the establishment, and never got in trouble at school. But, I also wasn't afraid to speak up when I saw things unfairly in my eyes. I took input, but if I was determined that my way was right, that's what I did. As I grew into a teenager, I lost some friendships over this way of life. I'm not saying I was an ogre, but at some point something would come up, and sometimes, "my way" would offend them.

As I have listened to God to set aside my way for His way, I have found much more joy in life. Some times I realize that I'm really fighting a feeling of being rejected by someone, which is MY perception of the situation; it's not even always the case. But, I have realized this is a real hook of the enemy for me. He does not win against me as I give it over to God in praise in prayer though! God is faithful to take those wounded feelings and turn them into dust.

I've been asking God where the root of this issue is for me. He was quick to answer when I picked up a book, "The Search for Significance". I had been given this book nearly 2 years ago by a Christian counselor. I tried to read it many times, but it just never made sense that I could relate to. I didn't relate to it until....today! Satan has been so successful with using this hook of rejection with me because I felt quite rejected as a child. Whether the case or not to my parents, I felt some level of disappointment being born a girl. My parents only had a boy name picked out, and they could not come up with a girl's name. They used a name my grandmother suggested. I suppose being a middle child too had some effect, as I was not the oldest and not the boy that they had 3 years after me. Little girls look up to their dads, and I didn't feel like I got that approval from my dad. He was really into sports and probably just could relate to a boy more than a girl. I actually played more sports than my brother did, but he did not support my events like he did for my brother.

The important thing though is I can still have victory over Satan. I don't need anyone's approval in this life because I can stand in God's grace. I am significant to him so much that he would have sent his only begotten Son for just me.

John 3:16 (King James Version) 16For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

His love is overflowing and abundant and always there for me. He shows up for each and every moment of my life and knows each step that is best for me. And, it's always way better than Burger King's and my way.

Matthew 11:28-30 "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

A miracle of obedience

2009-03-14T20:28:00.000-07:00

1 Peter 1:13-15 (King James Version)
13Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; 14As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: 15But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;

How many times have I heard Corrie Ten Boome quoted at Babes? I didn't know who this Christian hero was, so I picked up her biography up at the church library a few weeks ago. What would God teach me through this women who died while I was just starting my adult life in college. I had read Anne Frank's account of living through World War II as a high schooler, but this book was different. It spoke of the wisdom of an older woman who had learned to depend daily on the Lord to bring her through all circumstances -- Even while living as a prisoner in a concentration camp because she was helping the Jewish people avoid persecution.

At some point in the book, I remember that Corrie realized that her obedience to God brought about miracles. I cannot remember now what the miracle was at the time. The miracle that impressed me the most in her story was when she faced one of her former prison guards in a church after the war. The man had become a Christian and came up to her after the service as she had delivered a message for everyone to forgive one another, just as Jesus died on the cross to forgive us of our sins. The man spoke of how wonderful it was that she could forgive him for his actions at the camp. Corrie found herself in a helpless heap of sin. She could not bring herself to shake the man's hand in forgiving him. But instead of wallowing in that sin, she gave it over to Jesus and asked that He would help her forgive this man. In an instant as she obediently raised her hand, Jesus showed up and sent His spirit of forgiveness flooding down her arm and into her body. She could truly forgive this man through a miracle of obedience.

That's all well and good for her, but how would God do that in my life? Well, I was about to find out....after an afternoon with my kids this week full of bickering and bad behavior while I took them out to lunch, I found myself in an argument on the way home in the car. I sat there and judged them for the hurt they seem to impale to each other. Then, from the far back seat, came an explosion of anger from my oldest who saw the situation differently. He called me on my lack of love and my anger. Wow, did those words hurt! I knew if I continued this conversation, it would only get worse. We stewed the rest of the way home in silence. Instead of becoming bitter though, I gave this hurt over to God. I asked him to show me how I could show more love to my sons, and prayed for them and for me. A few days later, we all went to lunch as a family. I cannot remember a time where the two oldest got along so well, making jokes with each other in a comical way. I could not remember when we had such a fun time as a family. I was actually enjoying time with them at a meal instead of being upset by their words and behavior. God is good and certainly does bring about miracles through obedience!

Beauty

2009-02-20T21:48:00.000-08:00

This is a link to an incredible song - straight from the Word. Close your eyes and be ministered to.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzmP7IZgaUM# (use this to copy/paste)

Lindsey Kane - "Measure of Beauty"

Bringing a Receipt...

2009-02-18T22:46:00.001-08:00

Working in retail, you really get to know that return policies can either make or break the customer experience. Most places won’t even talk to you without a receipt, that little piece of paper you stuffed in your pocket as you walked to the car. Well, here you are, standing at the return desk with that item you just couldn’t use or one that just won’t fit…what you need is the receipt. That little slip of paper you probably left in your jeans and washed this morning. Of course, that little piece of paper is now the most important item of the hour. It doesn’t matter that you brought receipts from lunch or from last week, or that you are really nice to the employees there…nothing else will work – you need that receipt! It’s comedic really; you knew when you got it, that it probably would be important sometime in the future. Yet, here you are standing in front of the return desk and you don’t have the one thing you need. You have to leave.

Wow, I’m sure as silly as that sounds, many can relate to that situation. I laugh at that one, but am saddened by another. What about when you think about that little prayer we said? When we asked Jesus into our lives as Savior and King, believing we are here to serve Him alone…what about that?

It’s so simple really to be a Christian, “if you believe with your heart and confess with you mouth that Jesus Christ is King, you will be saved.” (Rom 10:9) So you go on to live a “good” life and love people and all of that…

What next? Are you going to be OK standing behind a friend in line at Heaven’s gate, to see her turned away because she didn’t bring her receipt? How passionate are we about this charge to “go out and make disciples of all nations?”

This has to be a daily commitment and reminder to myself. “I’m not that bold!,” I say to the Lord. Then the Lord says to me, “Who gave man his mouth? Who makes him deaf or mute? Who gives him sight or makes him blind? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.” (Ex 4:11) What convicting words! I can only imagine what Moses was thinking, about to talk to Pharaoh. Here I am, worried about talking to my beautiful friends who look like they’ve got it all together or to my dad, who is very much against anything “religious”. It’s remarkable to think that regardless of what we’re involved in or how intense the moments are when we talk about Christ – he gives us this promise:

“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (Heb 4:15-16)

Oh Lord, I desire to seek your heart and know you more. Father, I pray for opportunities to daily share your word and speak your truths. Please open the hearts of people around me who don’t know you yet Father. Let your words of hope and salvation bring people to their knees to worship you. Father I pray for my father, he doesn’t know you and his heart is cold to you. Please allow your seeds to be planted in his life and in his heart. I so desperately want him to know you Jesus!

Finding Freedom

2009-02-17T20:46:00.000-08:00

"The irony of commitment is that it's deeply liberating – in work, in
play, in love. The act frees you from the tyranny of your internal
critic, from the fear that likes to dress itself up and parade around
like rational hesitation. To commit is to remove your head as the
barrier to you life. “-- Anne Morris, found on my Starbucks cup

I wondered at this quote for some time. Although it struck me, I just didn’t get it. How could tying yourself to something or someone actually result in freedom? In life I’ve fought the “status quo” – seeking instead my own path or way of doing things. In marriage I’ve struggled with seeing my husband as an opponent rather than a teammate. I know the Lord has purpose for this strong, independent woman he’s created – it’s all about finding the freedom in Him.

Paul writes in Ephesians, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free...” (Eph 5:1) Wow, so here He’s promising us freedom in Him. I don’t have to fight battles alone – even the internal ones! “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me…for my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matt 11:29) It really is that easy; I can just say “Ok Lord, this battle is yours.” You’ve created me as this strong, independent woman for a purpose. It is possible for you to work in me!

Paul writes that “you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ…” (1 Cor. 6:11) What honest and humbling words! I am so unworthy, yet have been made worthy through his death on the cross. I am free.

He goes on to write in Galatians 5, “Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” And with that I continue to go forward. It’s the Lord’s charge to us, to daily take on his yoke and his word, to be made free in him.

Name Your MOST Embarrassing Moment

2009-02-08T13:13:00.000-08:00

Okay girls--I double dog dare you to tell us about your most embarrassing moment. For me, there are numerous ones and I'm guessing that's the case for you too. At least, I hope so!

Here's one: One Saturday, I had to rush out and do some errands and most of my pants were in the wash, so I grabbed a pair of old capris I hadn't worn in a couple of years--which turned out to be a bad idea.

I rushed out the house and noticed that people were treating me weird everywhere I went. The way they were gawking at me was so rude--it infuriated me. Finally, I scrapped the rest of my errands and returned home. I couldn't wait to tell my husband all about it, but as soon as I started talking, even he started staring! Even in my own home!

Just as I was about the read him his rights, he pointed to my pants and asked me if I felt a draft. When I looked down I gasped. The inseam of the pants had completely ripped apart, revealing part of my underwear! AGH! I wanted to scream! I had walked around all day with the inseam of my pants ripped open. No wonder people were looking at me. I would have done the same if I'd seen some strange woman walking around with a big gaping rip in the inseam of her pants.

I still blush when I think about it--and believe me, I try NOT to think about it much.

NOW, let's hear your stories! I CAN'T WAIT!

Babes Q & A

2009-01-25T21:08:00.000-08:00

Dear Babes,

We're starting something new--a question of the week! Click on the comment bar below to leave an answer.

Here's the question:

When you were a little girl, what did you dream of being when you grew up?

Again, leave your answer by clicking on the comments bar below:)

Through the Fire

2009-01-13T18:08:00.001-08:00

As I was packing away ornaments last week, I came across one my oldest son had given me when he was a pre-schooler, almost 20 years ago. Other than having an incredibly adorable picture of him, it was the same kind of ornament many other mothers have and treasure, I'm sure. The amazing thing about this ornament however, is that it survived an attic fire that destroyed all my other Christmas decorations and other precious keepsakes. The ornament is priceless because it's of my son, and especially because of what it has survived. I'm sure it doesn't look the way it did when my 4-year-old son proudly presented it to me. It has aged, and although not burned, its original clear red color has been darkened by smoke.
This year I had to force myself to get out Christmas decorations. After yet another move, I felt "boxed out." As an almost empty-nester, I also wasn't looking forward to the wave of emotions Christmas memories bring. Still raw and unsettled, I forced myself to "unpack" more stuff, although on a much smaller scale than previous Christmases. Although the children are grown and I face a new journey, the smoked ornament reminded me of what God has brought me through. It also served as a touching reminder of how God treasures one who has come through the fire.

Through the Fire

2009-01-13T18:08:00.000-08:00

The BWAB Christmas Dinner Table-We Decorated it!

2009-01-04T21:02:00.000-08:00

It's Delightful, It's Delicious, It's DeLorean!

2008-12-21T16:06:00.000-08:00

Above--Walt and Margaret Paul, hot-rodders! Below--Dannelle Woody and Linda Kozar posed in Jim and Susan Hersch's DeLorean, a "Back To The Future" type car, to announce they will be teaching "Back To OUR Future--a Study on the Book of Revelation." The study begins on Tuesday, January 13th, 2009, from 9:30-11:30 am at Linda's Home. Please email zarcom1@aol.com for further info.

Slain in the Spirit testimony

2008-12-14T21:29:00.000-08:00

(written 12/11) I wanted to share what happened at last night’s prayer service (12/10). We got there 10 minutes late. I had Sam with me (he's 9) which was not easy. I walked in and immediately felt the presence of the Lord. I had to take Sam because my teen boys went to their small groups, and David's in Ohio with his dad who is quite ill. Sam was whining and moaning about the loud music during the first half of the service. I almost gave in and left, but I put a condition that if we left, he would give up computer play the rest of the week. I wanted to see if it's him whining or the enemy through him. Huh, somehow he was able to stay *wink* , and Praise God that I did. I later found out Dana Spinler had prayed for him to hang on and make it through the service.

When they prayed for healing for either you or standing in for someone, Sam and I went up and prayed for David's dad, against the spirit of depression. I immediately started bawling when the prayer started, and it moved into huge sobs, which turned into convulsing. I was slain in the spirit, bigger than I had ever experienced. I remember two people laying hands on me - Emily Graham was one, but I didn’t know the other person. It felt like pitch-blackness was releasing from me. I could not control my sobbing or convulsing. I remember repenting and giving it over to Jesus. Most of it was just complete darkness, but I do remember a pair of hands taking it away. When the prayer was over, I was so unsteady on my feet that I had to be helped back to the front row of seats.

Poor Sam was crying for me. I didn't mean to scare him. He just went up with me in faith for his Papa. It took us the entire next prayer to calm down.

I got a call at 3am last night from the nursing home looking for my husband. He's at his dad's house in Ohio. My FIL was put back into the hospital and near death this morning from a kidney infection. I'm ok if it's his appointed time, but I didn't want him to go due to depression. I was still holding out hope that he would recover because at the time of praying yesterday, the depression was his only issue. David later called to say that the doctor will try to get rid of the infection today. He cannot go to dialysis because of a breathing assistance machine he's on (not a ventilator). He also has aspiration pneumonia most likely caused by the infection. If he can pull through this infection, then he will go to dialysis tomorrow....if not, it's just a matter of time before his organs start shutting down.

For me, I have definitely seen healing for myself today. The Lord has spoken to me today that the healing was in fact for me. I didn’t sleep the entire night with the 3am phone call, yet, I’ve had more energy than I can remember in a long time. I have a low thyroid condition and a leaky gut condition that has hindered me with energy. I recently went through cleansing streams and at the retreat last month, I had a divine appointment at lunch with an intercessor who had the same thyroid/gut issues. She said she thought the Lord would heal me and prayed over me. I would be thrilled if this is part of that healing~!

The other thing I wanted to mention is that the Lord spoke to me about writing out my testimony of healing through cleansing streams on the boards during Sunday’s service and that He honored that.

Going through cleansing streams was fabulous, but I have seen continued healing in the past weeks and now this huge release of darkness. God is so good~!

Kate Young

(12/14) God healed my father-in-law, but it was not in the manner in which I thought it would be. George went home to be with Jesus on Saturday morning at 6:26am. We have the assurance that George had put his faith in our Lord, Jesus Christ, and will spend eternity with God. (John 11:25-26) Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die." We will miss him until we are reunited with him in eternity with God too. Thank you Jesus for giving EVERYONE the free gift of grace and entrance into heaven through your saving blood on the cross. All we have to do is ask for it and we receive it. Thank you for dying for each and every person ever born into this world that we might be called child of God. You are our wonderful redeemer~!

Chin Hair and Sin. . .by Kate Young

2008-11-11T18:53:00.000-08:00

Most women hate to admit it, but as we age, many of us have to deal with pesky chin hairs due to a hormonal changes in our bodies. These hairs are not soft and a natural light color like the rest of hair on our face. These hairs are hard, dark and unsightly, much like we think of sin in our life. When they first appear, they can be there for weeks, until they get so long that we finally feel them as we brush our hand along our chin. I liken this to a new Christian who for the first
time is seeing and acknowledging sin in their life. As the Holy Spirit now tells them there is something in their life that doesn't belong and needs to be uprooted, just like these chin hairs.

1 John 1:9
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

Shaving the chin hairs might make them less noticeable but it doesn't get rid of the hair that will grow back. That is why they must be plucked from the root. This is how we should deal with sin. We need to find the root of the issue, renounce it to Jesus, and ask for His forgiveness so that it will be taken out of our life.

Hebrews 12:15
See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many

As we grow in our faith, we become more eagle-eyed on sin, just as many women become more concerned with their chin hair. Once they realize that the chin hair is coming in, they learn to deal with it.

Keeping closer account, we see when a new chin hair erupts…..almost as it breaks the skin. We're feeling it erupt, conscious of the change in the skin of our chin. God also gives us this ability with sin as the Holy Spirit prompts us about what needs plucked and
confessed. We grow in our faith and have a better ability to hear what He is telling us. The more sin we confess, the closer he will draw near. Once we confess sin, it sometimes reappears, just like chin hairs do. We need to be on the look out for it erupting in our life just
as we keep watch on our chins. I bet you never thought chin hairs and sin had any commonality, but the Lord showed me that they indeed do.

Keep your sin and chin hair uprooted and you will look better on the
outside as well as the inside to God and to others.