Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Constitutional Convention

I sometimes have difficulty when I copy and paste..sentences are cut off...If you are interested in this please visit world net daily or do a search on Con Con...ohio..
It seems like this was defeated for the time being but from what I understand the threat of a constitutional convention is not over...

World Net Daily
(link)

Here is another link where you can find resources and take action to stop the concon(link)

Con Con 2nd of 4 videos

Con Con# 2

Friday, December 19, 2008

Remeber those in bonds...

Please remember and pray for all those who are persecuted for their faith in Jesus Christ. For those of you not familiar with Voice of the Martyrs please visit their site Voice of the Martyrs (link)
there you will find Prisoner Alert and you can writer letters to the prisoners in there own language using a drop down menu...you can participate in bibles unbound there are a variety of ways you can minister to the persecuted church through voice of the martyrs. The offer a free monthly newsletter, email updates of prisoner alerts...you can use this material to inform others and as a resource on the prayers that are needed. Most of all keep them, their families and communities in your prayers. We are all part of the same body of Christ and we are called to love, encourage, and pray for each other.
Other sites that provide information on persecuted church is open doors(link), global response network(link) and China Aid (link).

I hyperlinked vom, opendoors, global response and china aid...not sure why the appearance doesn't look like a link so I typed the word link after each hyperlink...hope this works...please visit the sites.

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Thank You Sharon

Thanks you Sharon! Sharon commented that my previous post seemed to be cut out in places.
I copied and pasted an email I received about Costco is Now saying Merry Christmas. I thought it only fair since I posted when they refused to say Merry Christmas that I also post that they have changed their mind and are now saying Merry Christmas! I didn't realize that when you copy and paste sometimes things are cut off...Anyway the gist of the email was thanks to those who took the time to email and phone Costco about refusing to acknowledge Christmas in their ads and stores.

Monday, December 15, 2008

Merry Christmas from Costco



-

Please help us get this information into the hands of as many people as possible by forwarding it to your entire e-mail list of family and friends.

Christmas comes to Costco!

December 15, 2008

Dear Debrah,

Thanks to your faithful actions, Costco is now recognizing Christmas in a big, new way!

Two weeks ago, their website and store was practically absent of any references to “Christmas.” Today, you’ll find Christmas prominently featured on their website and email promotions. And, if you call their corporate offices, you’ll be greeted with “Merry Christmas from Costco!”

One unnamed store manager said, “The company has received so many e-mails and complaints that they are changing all their holiday cakes to say Merry Christmas and will be saying it in the stores.”

Learn which companies are celebrating Christmas with you by visiting our “Naughty and Nice” store listing today.

Again, thanks for taking action. Your efforts are making a difference! We have thanked Costco on your behalf. If you'd like to thank them personally, they may be contacted through their website at www.costco.com.





Sincerely,

Don

Donald E. Wildmon,
Founder and Chairman
American Family Association

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Jeremiah 27: 12-18

Jeremiah 27: 12-18

I spake also to Zedekiah king of Judah according to all these words, saying, Bring your necks under the yoke of the king of Babylon, and serve him and his people, and live.
Why will ye die, thou and thy people, by the sword, by the famine, and by the pestilence, as the Lord hath spoken against the nation that will not serve the king of Babylon?
Therefore hearken not unto the words of the prophets that speak unto you, saying, Ye shall not serve the king of Babylon: for they prophesy a lie unto you.
For I have not sent them, saith the Lord, yet they prophesy a lie in my name; that I might drive you out, and that ye might perish, ye, and the prophets that prophesy unto you.
Also I spake to the priest and to all this people, saying, Thus saith the Lord; Hearken not to the words of your prophets that prophesy unto you, saying, Behold, the vessels of the Lord's house shall now shortly be brought again from Babylon for they prophesy a lie unto you.
Hearken not unto them, serve the king of Babylon, and live: wherefore should this city be laid waste?
But if they be prophets, and if the word of the Lord be with them, let them now make intercession to the Lord of hosts, that the vessels which are left in the house of the Lord, and in the house of the king of Judah, and at Jerusalem go not to Babylon.


God tells His people through the prophet Jeremiah that if they go submit and serve the king of Babylon-that they will live and if they don't they will die. God wants His people to live. He promises that He will deliver them in His time. God tells them that their prophets who are prophesying in His name and they are liars and that He did not send them. I pray that we would be like those who obeyed God. How could anyone choose to accept captivity without a relationship with God? Without Jesus, the Holy Spirit and the Word of God -how would we know who to believe? How would we have the strength and courage to willingly go into captivity? Even today there exist those who will "prophesy" to us and they are misleading some to disobey God. I pray that we will know the voice of our Lord and savior. Jesus said His sheep know His voice...I believe we know Him and His voice through His word. I thank God for His word.


Wednesday, December 10, 2008

My Kind of Town Chicago is

GUILTY AS SIN, FREE AS A BIRD, AIN'T AMERICA GREAT?

MY KIND OF TOWN CHICAGO IS..






CHICAGO CHICAGO


Tuesday, December 9, 2008

computer is back up...

Computer back up...so far not able to recover my stuff (hubby is still working on it...)
As for the Baby Monitor....Hey Sharon...No there is no news I need to share with anyone(my name is debrah not sarah)! I found it on a pro life blog and thought I would put it on mine as a reminder to keep praying and interceding for pregnant mothers and their babies.

Friday, December 5, 2008

My Cpmuter Crashed

I am at the library because my computer at home has crashed...not sure if it was a virus or what...

Thursday, December 4, 2008

AIG and Sharia Law

I received this in my email this morning. I am concerned about the way Sharia Law wants to establish a foothold in our nation. Please keep it all in prayer.
Date: Thursday, December 4, 2008, 9:18 AM

home learn act local chapters


Dear Debrah,

The article below ran on December 2nd in the online “Insurance Journal,” and illustrates how Shariah-compliant finance is establishing a foothold in American financial and insurance markets. As we all know, AIG is the recipient of a massive government bailout (translation: our tax dollars).

Take special note of the shariah-compliant supervisory board. Muhammed Imran Usmani is the son and disciple of Muhammed Taki Usmani. The elder Usmani is a “who’s who” in the Islamist world and an outspoken proponent of aggressive jihad. For example, he has issued numerous fatwas (religious rulings) that provide material support for terrorism.

The danger of American financial institutions getting in bed with well-known advocates of jihad and terrorism should be obvious to anyone who takes even a cursory look. It was Lenin who stated “The capitalists will sell us the rope with which we will hang them.” In their thirst for capital and profits, the same corporate geniuses who gave us the sub-prime meltdown are going Lenin one better. At least the capitalists in Lenin’s day didn’t put him on their advisory boards and give him control over where money can be invested.

So as we connect the dots we see that (1) our tax dollars are being used to bail out a huge insurance conglomerate that (2) is now offering shariah-compliant insurance that (3) is under the direction of an advisory board that includes the son and disciple of one of the world’s leading advocates of Islamic terrorism. In 2009 we are going to need the help of every one of our members to start putting the brakes on this insanity.




AIG Offers First Takaful Homeowners Insurance Product for U.S.

December 2, 2008

http://www.insurancejournal.com/news/national/2008/12/02/95930.htm

Risk Specialists Companies, Inc. (RSC), a subsidiary of AIG Commercial Insurance, is introducing what it says is a first in the U.S.: a homeowners insurance product that is compliant with key Islamic finance tenets and based on the concept of mutual insurance.

The Takaful Homeowners Policy is underwritten through RSC member company A.I. Risk Specialists Insurance, Inc., in conjunction with Lexington Insurance Co. and in association with AIG Takaful Enaya. Headquartered in Bahrain, AIG Takaful Enaya was established in 2006 to provide Takaful products, including accident and health, auto, energy, property and casualty products.

The Takaful home policy is the first installment in Lexington Takaful Solutions, a series of Shari'ah-compliant (Takaful) product offerings in the U.S.

According to Ernst & Young's 2008 World Takaful Report, Takaful was estimated to be a $5.7 billion market globally with over 130 providers in 2006. The Takaful market is estimated to be in excess of $10 billion by 2010.

Takaful is similar to mutual insurance and cooperative risk sharing but there are key differences including a clear segregation of funds owned by participants and those owned by the insurance operations entity. Investments of funds are also restricted to avoid companies involved in entertainment, alcohol, pork and other elements prohibited by Islamic law.

Muslim countries only account for 5 percent of the global insurance market although they represent 25 percent of the world's population, according to AIG, which launched its Takaful operation in October 2006.

The Takaful Homeowners Policy builds on LexElite, the homeowners policy from Lexington that is sold throughout the U.S. The Takaful Homeowners Policy is available in all 50 states.

According to Jim Crain, associate vice president and personal lines underwriting director for Risk Specialists, the coverage, terms, commissions and sales proceduers are the same for this new products as they are for LexElite.

"The introduction of Takaful products in the U.S. represents an important and emerging growth opportunity for AIG Commercial Insurance. We are pleased to offer socially responsible solutions to this segment of the domestic market," said Matthew F. Power, president, Risk Specialists Companies, Inc.

AIG Takaful Enaya is licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain and its Shari'ah Supervisory Board is composed of Shari'ah scholars Sheikh Nizam Yaquby, Dr. Mohammed Ali Elgari and Dr. Muhammad Imran Usmani.

Risk Specialists Companies, Inc. is a U.S. surplus lines broker providing access to specialty casualty, property and personal lines insurance from Lexington and other AIG companies.

Source: AIG Commercial Insurance
www.aig.com



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

ACT for America
P.O. Box 6884
Virginia Beach, VA 23456
www.actforamerica.org


ACT for America is an issues advocacy organization dedicated to effectively organizing and mobilizing the most powerful grassroots citizen action network in America, a grassroots network committed to informed and coordinated civic action that will lead to public policies that promote America’s national security and the defense of American democratic values against the assault of radical Islam. We are only as strong as our supporters, and your volunteer and financial support is essential to our success. Thank you for helping us make America safer and more secure.

IT'S CALLED CHRISTMAS

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Say Merry Christmas not Happy Holidays

I see no reason to shop for Christmas presents and decorations at places that refuse to recognize Christmas. I used to think that this was a small issue. I now see that it is part of the effort to silence Christians and to remove God from America. They are using incrementalism taking away our ability to speak of the Name Jesus and profess our faith little by little.


Please help us get this information into the hands of as many people as possible by forwarding it to your entire e-mail list of family and friends.

Costco says 'No' to Christmas...literally

December 2, 2008

Dear Debrah,

Costco has 520 stores nationwide. But you will not find "Christmas" in a single store.

That's because Costco says it will not use the term "Christmas" on its website or in its stores. Instead, Costco is telling customers it purposely chooses to use the generic "holiday" verbiage. You know, they stock holiday gifts, not Christmas gifts.

Last week, a customer wrote to Costco and asked this direct question – "Does Costco use the word 'Christmas' in your store advertising or on any signs anywhere in your stores during the Christmas season? That's a pretty simple question, yes or no."

Kory Rosacrans, staff manager for Costco replied, "I guess the answer would be No."

Rosacrans said, "Costco does not advertise on television, on radio or in print like other retailers. We only advertise by mailings and e-mail messages sent directly to our members who have paid for the privilege of shopping with us."

Costco wants you to do your "Christmas" shopping with them, while refusing to recognize that Christmas even exists.

Take Action!

Send your e-mail to Costco. Let Costco know that you will exercise "your privilege" of shopping only at stores that recognize Christmas. Remind Costco that their

competitors are vying for your business too, and you will shop accordingly.

Monday, December 1, 2008

Jeremiah 27:1-11

JEREMIAH 27:1-11

In the beginning of the reign of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah came this word unto Jeremiah from the Lord, saying,
Thus saith the Lord to me: Make thee bonds and yokes, and put them upon thy neck,
And send them to the king of Edom, and to the king of Moab, and to the king of the Ammonites, and to the king of Tyrus, and to the king of Zidon,, by the hand of the messengers which come to Jerusalem unto Zedekiah king of Judah;
and command them to say unto their masters, Thus saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel; Thus shall ye say unto your masters;
I have made the earth, the man and the beast that are upon the ground, by my great power and by my outstretched arm, and have given it unto whom it seemed meet unto me.
And now have I given all these lands into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, my servant; and the beasts of the field have I given him also to serve him.
And all nations shall serve him, and his son, and his son's son, until the very time of his land come: and then many nations and great kings shall serve themselves of him
And it shall come to pass, that the nation and kingdom which will not serve the same Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, and that will not put their neck under the yoke of the king of Babylon that nation will I punish, saith the Lord, with the sword, and with the famine, and with the pestilence, until I have consumed them by his hand.
Therefore hearken not ye to your prophets, nor to your diviners, nor to your sorcerers, which speak unto you, saying, Ye shall not serve the king of Babylon.
For they prophesy a lie unto you, to remove you far from your land; and that I should drive you out, and ye should perish.
But the nations that bring their neck under the yoke of the king of Babylon, and serve him, those will I let remain still in their own land, saith the Lord; and they shall till it, and dwell therein.

This is a very hard word to hear and a hard word to speak forth . God had given Israel a time to return to Him and repent. Israel refused. Now God through Jeremiah tell the children of Israel they are to enter into a time of captivity...if they submit then God will let them remain in their own land...if they attempt to escape and not submit then the Lord said He would punish them with the sword, pestilence and famine. It is not a light thing to defy God. God also warns them not to listen to false prophets - these prophets would take them out of the Land. They choose not to serve God they refused to repent ...so now they will serve Nebuchadnezzar as captives. But God did not want them to lose the land. Elsewhere in the bible we are told to choose this day whom you will serve. As for me and my house we will serve the Lord. We're going to serve someone...I would rather serve the one who created and loves me. Why would we refuse to serve God? Do we not take Him seriously-have we been deceived into thinking that God will not correct us-that He will not use non believers to serve His perfect will in us? I know of so many people who suddenly woke up and now do not know what to do...actually there are also some who have been awake and fighting the good fight who do not know what to do...wait on God...get in His Word...get to know Him..His sheep knows His voice...study with those who are walking with God...Trust God...handle prophecy as it lines up with the Word of God...I love reading Alice's blog because she always has an encouraging word that fills my heart and mind with peace...that confirms no matter what we are going through God can be trusted...God loves us and will keep His promise...He ask that we Love Him with all our hearts and that we obey Him...We need to keep our eyes on Jesus...view our present time through Him...Stand in Him...that is our place of safety...Trust God and encourage each other in Him...

Saturday, November 22, 2008

another informative link

Here is another link for information and to connect with others who are concerned about our nation.



America Coast to Coast

Friday, November 21, 2008

Prayer Request...from those who are Persecuted for their Faith In Christ Jesus

Iran's Christian Call for Fasting, Prayer

From Christian World Newstoday...


Just Read this on the Persecution Blog

Iran's Christians are calling on churches worldwide to join them in three days of praying and fasting this weekend.


Elam Ministries, a group that supports Iranian Christians, says the church has come under increased persecution this year, including the introduction of a law requiring the death sentence for men who leave islam to follow christ.

Women would face life in prison.

In an initial vote, Iran's Parliament approved the measure overwhelmingly.
It is now under review before a final vote and approval by the Guardian Council.

No Censorship

free speech alliance

For information about the fairness doctrine...let's fight against censorship

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

the risk of the prophet

JEREMIAH 26:16-24

Then said the princes and all the people unto the priest and to the prophets; This man is not worthy to die: for he hath spoken to us in the name of the Lord our God.
Then rose up certain of the elders of the land, and spake to all the assembly of the people, saying,
Micah the Morasthite prophesied in the days of Hezekiah king of Judah, and spake to all the people of Judah, saying, Thus saith the Lord of hosts; Zion shall be plowed like a field, and Jeruslaem shall become heaps, and the mountain of the house as the high places of a forest.
Did Hezekiah king of Judah and all Judah put him at all to death? did he not fear the Lord, and besought the Lord and the Lord repented him of the evil which he pronounced against them? Thus might we procure great evil against our souls.
And there was also a man that prohesied in the name of the Lord, Urijah the son of Shemaiah of Kirjathjearim, who prophesied against this city and against this land according to all the words of Jeremiah;
And when Jehoiakim the king, with all his mighty men, and all the princes, heard his words, the king sough to put him to death: but when Urijah heard it, he was afraid, and fled, and went into Egypt:
And Jehoiakim the king sent men into Egypt, namely Elnathan the son of Achbor, and certain men with him into Egypt.
And the fetched forth Urijah out of Egypt, and brought him unto Jehoiakim the king; who slew him with the sword, and cast his dead body into the graves of the common people.
Nevertheless the hand of Ahikam the son of Shaphan was with Jeremiah, that they should not give him into the hand of the people to put him to death.

Those who spoke out against killing Jeremiah said that Jeremiah was not worthy of death - they said that he spoke the word of God. Others spoke about another prophet and another king...king Hezekiah sought the Lord and the Lord repented of the evil that He had pronounced against them. So they argued might we do great evil against their souls if they did not fear the Lord and if they killed the Lords prophet. Then they spoke of Urijiah and king Jehoiakim...Urijiah preached the same as Jeremiah and king Jehoiakim wanted him dead...Urijiah being afraid fled to Egypt...king Jehoiakim sent after him and then slew him with a sword. Jeremiah for the time being is spared.

The prophets of God speak His word to whomever and wherever God sends them. Some are sent to those who repent of evil and they receive the mercy of God. And others kill or attempt to kill Gods prophets. These men and women do not take the word of God lightly. They have been mocked, scorned, imprisoned, beaten and killed. Pray for those who risk humiliation, rejection and even death to bring us and others the word of our Lord God.

Friday, November 14, 2008

Jeremiah 26: 12-15

JEREMIAH 26:12-15

Then spake Jeremiah unto all the princes and to all the people, saying, the Lord sent me to prophesy against this house and against this city all the words that ye have heard.
Therefore now amend your ways and your doings, and obey the voice of the Lord your God: and the Lord will repent him of the evil that he hath pronounced against you.
As for me, behold, I am in your hand: do with me as seemeth good and meet unto you.
But know ye for certain, that if ye put me to death, ye shall surely bring innocent blood upon yourselves, and upon this city, and upon the inhabitants thereof: for of a truth the Lord hath sent me unto you to speak all these words in your ears

The priest and the prophets want to kill Jeremiah. God sent Jeremiah to speak to them and say REPENT and OBEY the Lord your God. God would then repent of the evil that their rebellion deserved. Jeremiah repeated God's message to them. Then he said that they are to do with him what they will but know this that you will be guilty of shedding innocent blood. They would be guilty of shedding the blood of one sent by God. Someone who spoke the truth that God had given him to speak to them. I believe that Jeremiah was showing compassion. Jeremiah knew that his life was in God's hands. Jeremiah knew that they could do nothing to him that God did not allow. Jeremiah knew that even greater consequences would befall them had they laid their hands on his life. Jeremiah also displayed wisdom to speak to them in this way. Truthfully and honestly declaring that the Lord had sent him to speak these words unto them.
God sends His prophets and He tells us in His word to REPENT and OBEY...what is our response? It seems that we believe that the world needs to repent - but we sometimes fail to see that we as individuals and as a corporate part of the body have need to repent. God wil discipline His Children...whom the Father loves he corrects. God said in 11 Chronicles 7:14 if my people humble themselves, pray and repent then I will hear their prayer and heal their land (paraphrase).


Monday, November 10, 2008

Jeremiah 26:8-11

JEREMIAH -26: 8-11

Now it came to pass, when Jeremiah had made an end of speaking all that the Lord had commanded him to speak unto all the people, that the priests and the prophets and all the people took him, saying, Thou shalt surely die.
Why hast thou prophesied in the name of the Lord, saying, This house shall be like Shiloh, and this city shall be desolate without an inhabitant? And all the people were gathered against Jeremiah in the house of the Lord.
When the prices of Judah head these things, then they came up from the king's house unto the house of the Lord, and sat down in the entry of the new gate of the Lord's house
Then spake the priests, and the prophets unto the princes and to all the people, saying, This man is worthy to die, for he hath prophesied against this city, as ye have heard with your ears.

Previously in verses 1-7...
God told Jeremiah to speak to all who come to worship in the Lord's house. Jeremiah was to speak this message to the people of God, those who came together to worship God. God sent Jeremiah to say if they listen to God and repent then God would repent of the judgment their rebellion deserved.
God had also told Jeremiah that if they did not repent that He would make the city a curse to all nations...The priest and the prophets heard Jeremiah speak in the house of the Lord.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
After hearing all that God had spoken through Jeremiah...the priest, prophets and people took him and proclaimed that now Jeremiah will die.
All were gathered against Jeremiah(in the house of the Lord) angry that He had prophesied against them and their city. They have an opportunity to repent and yet the ignore the option to repent. They blame Jeremiah for speaking such words and want to silence Jeremiah, put him to death. This is amazing people of God wanting to place a prophet to death for speaking the truth. That truth being if you repent in your ways and turn back to God- that God will withold His judgment Can you imagine being so wrapped up and bound by sin that you don't leap at the chance for mercy? You would think that they would be on their faces before God weeping and praising Him for His mercy. But they considered killing the messenger. In dark days God provides a prophet(s) to draw us back to Him - often that prophet is rejected. But the prophet who is not of God, the one who does not care for your soul and has no desire to return you to the Father- that prophet is heard, praised and sought after.
I believe that Judgment begins at the church and reading this is chilling to think that it is the church that could possibly reject the true prophet(s) of God...I think elsewhere in God's word He said that if it were possible even the very elect will be deceived...that gives me the hope that we will not be deceived...but will there be a time that we may reject the true prophet and entertain the false...will we support and encourage the true prophet or will we remain silent while others mock, belittle and deride them. Will we stand up against the false prophets and be witnesses for our Lord and Savior or remain silent not wanting to stand out in the crowd.
If God calls you to be His prophet - How will you respond?
I pray that God will send His prophets to His people and I pray that His people will respond with repentance and obedience to His will

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Visit Team Sarah

The election is almost here and I know that many have been fasting and praying, seeking God for our Nation...visit team sarah for ways to help, to check out the groups and see how others are praying and supporting McCain/Pallin...




This link is for John McCain site with ways you can volunteer such as phone banks, flyers, events etc. check it out
http://www.johnmccain.com/dashboard/

Most importantly Pray for our nation!

Sat. November 1 , Election Day and following...

Saturday Nov 1

Saturday, 1 Nov: TheCall California - LIVE from San Diego. (2 Nov on Australasia feed)
Led by Lou Engle, this massive prayer gathering is an ideal opportunity for believers worldwide to rally together and intercede for the nation of America and for God's Will to be done in the presidential elections. The outcome of this election will have international ramifications, so let's turn to the One who is sovereign and stand with the global Body of Christ as we pray for the USA.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Someone posted this on team sarah (I think it was on the prayer warriors group) in addition to this someone also posted that we pray as we pull the lever that God would multiply our vote as He did with the loaves and the fishes....

I'd like to suggest an idea for everyone's consideration and action. In addition to all of the prayer going on now and this week, I think it would be good if folks could garner support for actually going to the polling places the day before and/or the day of the election to just walk around outside and pray, and lift up Jesus as Truth and the Light of the World over our Nation and claim victory. I believe in the power of intercessory prayer an doing it "on-site". I believe there are people God wants to speak to, gripping their hearts, as they're walking in to vote. If our kids can do this at the Flag poll every September for their schools, could we do this for our Country? Could we get this mobilized?

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

CALL TO REPENTANCE

JEREMIAH 26: 1-8

In the beginning of the reign of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah came this word from the Lord, saying,
Thus saith the Lord; Stand in the court of the Lord's house, and speak unto all the cities of Judah, which come to worship in the Lord's house, all the words that I command thee to speak unto them; diminish not a word:
If so be they will hearken, and turn every man from his evil way, that I may repent me of the evil, which I purpose to do unto them because of the evil of their doings
And thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the Lord; If ye will not hearken to me, to walk in my law, which I have set before you,
To hearken to the words of my servants the prophets, whom I sent unto you, both rising up early, and sending them, but ye have not hearkened;
Then will I make this house like Shiloh, and will make this city a curse to all nations of the earth.
So the priest and the prophets and all the people heard Jeremiah speaking these words in the house of the Lord.

I pray that God will speak to and through our leaders, those with authority over us.
I pray that they will be obedient to speak all that God reveals to them that they do not take it upon themselves to edit God.
I pray that our ears will be open, that we truly hear what the Lord Our God is speaking through those obedient leaders.
I pray that we will repent of our wicked and evil ways.
I pray that the Lord Our God will then repent of the judgment our evil ways deserve.
I pray this all in the name of Jesus Christ Our Lord and Savior.

Monday, October 27, 2008

In God We Still Trust



LAS VEGAS DIAMOND RIO CONCERT

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Is it Lawful to do good or to do evil?

Mark 3: 1-6
And he entered again into the synagogue; and there was a man there which had a withered hand.
And they watched him, whether he would heal him on the sabbath day; that they might accuse him.
and he saith unto the man which had the withered hand, Stand Forth
And he saith unto them, Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath day, or to do evil? to save life, or to kill? but they held their peace
And when he looked round about on them with anger, being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, he saith unto the man, stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it out: and his hand was restored whole as the other.
and the Pharisees went forth, and straightway took counsel with the Herodians against him, how they might destroy him.

Is it lawful to do good or to do evil? Is it lawful for Christians to speak out on issues such as abortion? Is it lawful for Christian leaders to speak from the pulpit on issues such as abortion or homosexuality? The Pharisees remained silent when Jesus questioned them and Jesus looked on them with anger because of the hardness of their heart. I wonder how Jesus looks on Christians who remain silent while it is lawful to shed innocent blood? If we are blessed enough to have a Pastor or Priest to speak out against abortion from the pulpit...how is the congregation responding?

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Such a Time as This

Then the king held out the golden sceptre toward Esther. So Esther arose, and stood before the king.
And said, If it please the king, and if I have found favour in his sight, and the thing seem right before the king, and I be pleasing in his eyes, let it be written to reverse the letters devised by Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, which he wrote to destroy the Jews which are in all the king's provinces:
For how can I endure to see the evil that shall come unto my people? or how can I endure to see the destruction of my kindred?
ESTHER 8:4-7

Pray for our Nation
As the bride of Christ we are able to approach the throne of our King and Savior...to make our request known to Him...to ask Him to reverse the evil that shall come unto our people...many in our nation have turned away from God, some have outright rejected Him, others openly oppose Him...even in the church there are some who are timid to speak His truth or have compromised His truth...We deserve God's judgment let us pray for His Mercy...like Esther let us pray that God will reverse the evil that has taken place and that evil that threatens to take place unless He intervenes on our behalf.

Thursday, October 9, 2008

I'm in love with God and God's in love with me...



What an amazing thought-we're always on His mind...I believe that David said in at least one of His psalms...What is man that thou art mindful of him...
If the God of the Universe, the Creator of all things has the time to keep us on His mind and the world doesn''t come to a halt - then we certainly have the time to be mindful of Him...


Saturday, October 4, 2008

For those who haven't seen this yet...



I have been told that someone couldn't get on my blog because of an objectionable video....The original link had been pulled....I certainly agree that this is frightening....but believe that people should see this...What happened to Freedom of Speech...

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Change I think not....

Thank God for those who have been fasting and praying for our nation...thank God for Pastors who have said enough is enough and are preaching the truth and refusing to be intimidated any longer...


If we don't handle this bail out correctly we are in danger of becoming a socialist nation...our nation's sovereignty is in danger....Thank God for the house of reps(both parties) they exemplify what is right with our nation....not as some have stated that they are what is wrong with this nation...they are standing and debating what they believe...if we let the house work this out I believe that we will have the best solution...if we allow them to continue to discuss and debate...

I am concerned that one of the candidates for President of the United States....has relationships with several people who are not proud of America....a former Pastor that has stated that God should not bless America but that God should !!*! America....a 60's radical who believes that violence against his own country is an appropriate form of protest and a spouse who stated during her husband's campaign that this is the first time she is proud of America...

A supporter of this candidate painted a nude of the opposition party's v p using his own daughter as a model and hung it in his wife's bar in Chicago....now people are coming to this bar just to photograph the painting...so far I have not seen any outrage from the candidate or his supporters...have not heard any of the powerful women cry out against this attempt to demoralize and humiliate a candidate in this fashion.

A video was placed on youtube of children singing about the change that Obama will bring to the world...This is frightening- it is reminiscent of the evil that preceeded WWII - others have said it should be titled "dear leader" More than a few referenced the film "caberet"....view it and judge for yourself....is this the party of change you want to run our nation?


Sarah Palin nude painting

Sarah Palin painted in the nude at Old Town Ale House in Chicago

Palin in paint

Bruce Elliott, whose wife owns the Old Town Ale House, painted this nude portrait of Republican vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin. He said his daughter, who does a good impression of the Alaska governor, served as model. (Kuni Takahashi, Chicago Tribune / September 29, 2008


sCROLL TO BOTTOM OF PAGE TO TURN OFF MY PLAYLIST-

The original link for this video has been removed....I encourage you to search it out it may still be available on youtube or perhaps some other site ...I suggest that you view it for yourself....and let others know where to find it....

IF THIS IS NOT AS SCARY AS SOME OF US BELIEVE ...THEN WHY REMOVE THE LINK?

I am also hearing stories of TRUTH SQUADS and other stories about not being able to have signs or banners at one of his campus rallies....

GOD HELP THE NATION IF THIS MAN BECOMES IT'S LEADER. We are in danger of losing our sovereignty and our freedoms...






Thursday, September 25, 2008

MOAN FOR ABSALOM, CRY FOR ABSALOM

2 Samuel 19 (New International Version)
New International Version (NIV)


2 Samuel 19

1 Joab was told, "The king is weeping and mourning for Absalom." 2 And for the whole army the victory that day was turned into mourning, because on that day the troops heard it said, "The king is grieving for his son." 3 The men stole into the city that day as men steal in who are ashamed when they flee from battle. 4 The king covered his face and cried aloud, "O my son Absalom! O Absalom, my son, my son!"

5 Then Joab went into the house to the king and said, "Today you have humiliated all your men, who have just saved your life and the lives of your sons and daughters and the lives of your wives and concubines. 6 You love those who hate you and hate those who love you. You have made it clear today that the commanders and their men mean nothing to you. I see that you would be pleased if Absalom were alive today and all of us were dead. 7 Now go out and encourage your men. I swear by the LORD that if you don't go out, not a man will be left with you by nightfall. This will be worse for you than all the calamities that have come upon you from your youth till now."

8 So the king got up and took his seat in the gateway. When the men were told, "The king is sitting in the gateway," they all came before him.


Absalom? Lord what does this have to do with me? Why are you speaking this to my mind and heart? Lord what have you delivered me from that I am mourning? What am I grieving over that I should be rejoicing over? Lord I do not want to grieve the death of my flesh but rather I want to rejoice in the resurrected life you have given me.
When Moses led the people out of Egypt...there were some who wanted to return to slavery...
David mourned a son who wanted to kill him... his men won the victory against his enemy but there was no rejoicing because David their king moaned the loss of his son.(a son who wanted David dead)..
I believe the Lord is speaking to me through David and Absalom...I hear Him say stop mourning the death of self and rejoice in the new life-the resurrected life I have given you...you are making those who have battled for you, those who stood in the gap...lose heart...at a time when they should be rejoicing at your deliverance that they have labored with you...they are saddened by your grief...you're holding on to the old life instead of embracing the new...
Have you or anyone you know ever held on to something that was harmful to them/you...something the Lord has set you free from...addictions, wrong relationships, false doctrine, wrong emotions and thoughts etc.? Have you ever gone to battle with/for someone and see them delivered and they miss the old life? Have you (or someone you know) ever grieved the loss of the very thing/person who was set on destroying you (or them)?
I confess that I don't understand this as well as I should...but I will begin with asking for the Lord's forgiveness and repent of grieving over the death of self...and say thank you all who have prayed for and with me....I will praise God for the victory....

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Remember Those Who Are In Bonds

For the last few months we have been meeting once a week to pray for the persecuted church. We pray for those who are in prison and all those who are in nations that are hostile to the Word of God. As we pray for those who are in prison we also pray for their families. Families sometimes find themselves without food or shelter because their spouse or parent are in prison. The other spouse may not have a job or the may not be able to find employment because of the hostility shown to Christians. Their family and communities may turn on them...sometimes families members may beat or even murder them. Children growing up in this atmosphere are especially vulnerable.

This month our main prayer focus is Laos and prisoners in Laos.

The Voice of the Martyrs has a great site -on their PRISONER ALERT -you can compose a letter to a prisoner in their own language, you can look at the Prisoner and the Country Profile.


Tuesday, September 9, 2008

It's New to me...

Earlier this summer I suggested that our church have a monthly women of the bible discussion...My plan was for it to be a discussion and that my part would be to organize, decorate and set up/clean up...that's where I see myself...where I am comfortable and where I know that I am more than competent in those task...since it is a discussion I also felt secure that I would be "participating"...it turns out that I will be leading this discussion...I feel unqualified due to lack of experience in this area...but also (after many tears and discussions w/ leadership) a bit excited about venturing out into something new...I don't want to turn down this opportunity out of fear and insecurity...I so enjoyed the online study that Rachel Olsen provided and I am hoping to bring this to our church and community...All this to say I am seeking your prayers...the first breakfast is scheduled for OCTOBER 11th...I am also working on a newsletter for our church and this too is new to me...

Friday, August 29, 2008

Yes!Yes! Yes!

I just received an email from AFA there will be a live Values Voters Webcast...follow this link to register...I believe they will email a reminder on thursday and the webcast will be on friday and saturday(September 12th and 13th)...here's the link

AFA Values Voter Webcast

YES! I just heard it is now confirmed that SARAH PALIN will be his V.P. pick! Yes! He picked a pro-life woman! I am not familiar with her so I will be waiting to learn more about this woman. It seems like this news is HUGE!!!!! It seems like at this point I don't have to consider sitting out this election...This just might energize the republican party and I hope will energize those who stand for life...to get out the vote...Praise God!!!! It looks like Prayers have been answered!!!!Thank You Jesus!!!!

Thursday, August 28, 2008

The V.P. is an important choice

We will soon find out who John McCain selected as his V.P. In a previous post I shared how I am considering sitting out the election. I have not come to that decision yet...
McCain's selection for the V.P. will be part of what I consider when making a decision to vote or not to vote. If McCain chooses as V.P. a person who supports abortion, homosexual marriage and embryonic stem cell research...then I would be hard pressed to vote in this election. This may be the time for me to stop voting for the lesser of two evils. If McCain truly supports life then why would he select a V.P. who does not support those values. I know that many are concerned about the economy and so am I but we cannot serve two masters...we cannot serve God and Mammon...I am struggling with this because I do not want to see what will become of America if the other candidate wins this election...but I am becoming more and more convinced that I should not continue to elect candidates who support laws that defy God. The lesser of two evils is still evil. I am praying that McCain will seek wisdom from the Lord as He announces who his running mate will be and that America will repent and turn back to God.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

I have been tagged...and learned how to hyperlink

I've been tagged by my very good friend "Plant Lady" -
Last time I did not participate...I am not sure how to link the people I have tagged...but nothing ventured nothing gained so here goes...
THANK YOU PLANT LADY!!!!! YOU ARE A GREAT TEACHER...I HIGHLY RECOMMEND BOTH ALICE AND PLANT LADY AS INSTRUCTORS IN THIS WORLD OF BLOGGING...
Four things I like about my husband . . . . .
1. I like his compassion
2. I like his intellect
3. I like his creativity
4. I like his sense of humor

Four movies I have watched more than once . . . . .
1. Peter and Paul
2. The Passion
3. The Trouble with Harry
4. The Horn Blows at Midnight

Four TV shows I watch . . . . .
1 Burn Notice
2. Fox News
3 Cnn News
4. 4400(no longer on...)

Four places I have been . . . . .
1. Hawaii
2. San Francisco
3 Boston
4. La Jolla

Four people who email me regularly . . . . .
1. My sister Lynn
2. My friend Virginia
3 My friend Leslie
4. My friend Kelly

Four favorite foods . . . . .
1. Lobster
2. Soft Shell Crab
3. Paella
4 Peet's Coffee


Four places I would like to visit . . . . .
1. Santa Fe
2. Spain
3. Ireland
4. Israel

Four things I am looking forward to in the coming year (2009) . . . . .
1. getting a job and getting out of debt
2. growing closer to my Lord and Savior
3. growing closer to the body of Christ where I worship
4. a women of the bible discussion group with the women of our fellowship


Please bear with me I am not sure how to link those who are tag...I tried to pick ones that have not been picked. Enjoy and have fun and let see what you have to say.
Four friends I am tagging:

Sallye
Sharon
Dale
Worshippingeagle

Friday, August 22, 2008

Valley of Indecision

A few months ago we began to set aside a specific time each week to pray for our Nation. Last week we participated in praying and fasting for our Nation. I confess in the past I had voted for the lesser of two evils...right before the primaries a new thing was stirring in my heart...and then I heard it out of the mouth of others....the possibility of sitting out this election...I have not come to the decision to sit it out... but it still remains a possibility...I have and do take every election very seriously...Even when the candidate that I voted for doesn't win... I am still so very grateful to live in a country where we have the freedom to elect our leaders...so I do not take a decision to sit out this year lightly...But my heart is heavy...at what point do I stop supporting a candidate that opposes the Word of God... just because He/She is the lesser of two evils?

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

LAOS - Keep them in Prayer

Laos-
According to Prisoner Alert.
This communist country is one of the poorest in Asia as a result of the Vietnam War and implementation of Marxist economics.
There are 132 people groups, 92 languages and classification of persons based on the altitude of their home environment. Buddhism is the religion of the majority(61 percent) with less than 2 percent Christian.
In Policy Laos' constitution guarantees freedom of religion but in practice many restrictions exist. Many Christians are forced to choose between life and their faith in Christ.
KhamLa Namheng and seven other pastors were arrested in March 2008 - their bags were searched and two bibles and some letters were confiscated. The police claim the letters were written against the village authority reporting persecution.
Please keep these pastors and the people and government of Laos in your prayers.
For more detailed information visit prisonalert.com and consider taking the opportunity to write to one or more of these prisoner for their faith in Christ.

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

As they continue to stand in faith may we continue to stand in the Gap

the Olympic Games are almost over but the persecution of Christians continues in China.
Please continue to keep all those who are persecuted because of their faith in Jesus Christ in prayer. I tried to put a link for the persecution blog on this post...but it didn't work...there is a video on that blog that puts a face to those who have or are suffering persecution because of their faith in Christ. Todd of VOM shows what you will probably be shown during the Olympics and what will probably not be shown.
Here is the address http://www.persecutionblog.com/ and I believe the link is also on my sidebar.

Monday, August 11, 2008

Call Fast and Pray for Our Nation

this is a promo video of Lou Engle-Call DC- Saturday August 16th-fasting and prayer for our Nation...standing for Life and Families...I believe this will be live on GOD TV. Pray that our Nation will turn to God, seek His Face, that we will repent of our sins...
Our church will be joining a neighboring fellowship to spend time together on Saturday the 16th of August in Fasting and Prayer for our Nation...If you are attending the event in Washington DC or if your gathering with others in your community...please share...I love to hear about what the Lord is doing with and through my brothers and sisters in Christ...

Friday, August 8, 2008

Pray for china day 8 of 31





Day 8
In the last year Chinese police have detained some 600 Christians and sentenced 38 of them to more than a year in prison. Please pray that the Lord will grant His strength, His comfort and His wisdom to those in prison for their faith. Pray that they will remain faithful and be salt and light to their fellow prisoners.

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Prayer for China Day 6/7 of 31

This is from Release International (Just found out about this site on the persecution blog)

31 days of Prayer for China

Day 7
In June 2008, senior house church leader Zhang Mingxuan was detained for several hours – to prevent him from meeting with an EU official in Beijing. Officials closed down his orphanage early this year; Zhang’s family have been forced to move home more than ten times since Christmas. The government reportedly wants to move the family out of Beijing. Pray for strength and courage for Pastor Zhang, his family and four orphans living with them. Ask God to provide them with a permanent home.



Day 6
Thank God for the powerful witness of a house church in Beijing whose members’ homes were raided recently by officials. Despite their ill-treatment, Christians pronounced a blessing over officials and shook their hands after the raid. Pray that this powerful Christian witness will touch the hearts of these officers and open their eyes to their own brutality.

Monday, August 4, 2008

Invitation to Plant Lady's Blog

Hurry on over to Plant Lady's blog... she has a friend from the farmers market who makes soap and they put together a very nice basket to give away to the lucky winner...hurry on over to her blog for details...her link is on my sidebar...Plant Lady's Ponderings
Be Blessed,
In His Love,
Debrah

mercy said no

Sunday, August 3, 2008

Jesus Prayed /Prays for Us

Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;
That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe thou has sent me.
John 17 20-21
So many times I seek for the Lord to answer my prayers but I don't think about how we are the answer of His prayer...He prayed for us to believe on Him and that we may be one so that the world will believe that God the Father sent Him. This is what was on our Saviors mind before He was crucified for our sins. The world places weight on death bed statements and yet how much weight do they put on the words spoken by Jesus Christ before He died. He was praying that we would receive eternal life. He not only paid the price for our sin - He interceded to the Father on our behalf...He is still before the Father interceding on our behalf...So the questions is what weight will you put on Jesus' prayer in the Garden?


The Week Ahead...

It Has Begun! -Lynn is doing a study based on Joyce Meyers book "Battlefield of the Mind"...It looks to be an interesting study...If you struggle with your thoughts and surrendering control of those thoughts to the Lord and want to study how to gain freedom from destructive thoughts - go to Lynn's Blog (you can follow the Study w/ Lynn link on this blog).
The Olylmpics in China, begin on Friday August 8th please pray for Chinese Christians who are being persecuted for their faith in Christ Jesus. Pray that President Bush and other world leaders will speak up and take a stand for those are suffering persecution for their faith.
We will also be celebrating my birthday this week. I keep trying to convince my husband that it is birthday month....I enjoy birthdays as long as there is no "surprise" party- I don't know why but I have ruined every surprise party ever planned for my bday....then I spend the month (that's right that's when it becomes a month) trying to make it up to everyone involved.
Thanks to Alice(from the heart) I am getting a little bolder about experimenting with my blog- is she ever patient, kind and gentle.

Friday, August 1, 2008

As the mind wanders...

My mind tends to wander and the other day while reading an online devotional thoughts entered my mind that had nothing to do with the devotional. All of a sudden the following questions/thoughts were being asked of me...Remember how you felt when your boyfriend spoke words of love to you...then remember how you felt when you heard these same words of love being spoken by actors on the screen...then remember how you felt when you first heard the Lord speak words of Love into your heart...now look at how you have been turning away from Grace because you have been offended by "cheap" grace...Know this -that no matter what is going on with actors on the movie screen it has nothing to do with the depth of the way your husband loves you...so much more does your Father In Heaven and the Lord Jesus Love you...flawed humanity does not change the truth of God's word or the sincerity of His Love.

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

looking forward but standing still

I don't drive and therefore I spend time walking through out my day. A few years ago when returning from the store I had the sensation of peace behind my back but in front of me was a struggle, difficult to move forward like there was an invisible wall in front of me. In the far, far, far distance there were open spaces but I could not move forward or I was moving forward ever so slowly. At this time I heard the Lord say you can not continue to move forward with all that baggage you are carrying, you must surrender it and lay it down. Once again I find myself unable to move forward while behind me seems ever so peaceful. Again the Lord is saying that I can not continue until I lay it down and leave it down. It wasn't until now that I realized that I had moved some distance from that place I was in a few years ago. I knew then and I know now that running back is not the answer. Turning to the left or the right is not the answer. I am to stand and let the Lord search me and do as He says- lay down all that is not of Him, Repent (deeper than I have done in the past), trust and wait for further direction. I see that there is stuff that I have been trying to hide. Having it exposed in this way is painful and I am having difficulty yielding. Having the Lord and others seeing me for what I really am is frightening. Yet I don't think I am fooling anyone but myself...Obviously Jesus knows me and I know many times I have seen things in others that they seemed surprised by when they finally see it in themselves...so certainly people are seeing what I think is hidden in me. I am a little shaky about this part of the journey but at the same time I know that the same Lord Jesus who saw me through in the past will see me through again.

Friday, July 25, 2008

Fast and Pray for North Korea

July 27th is the 55th anniversary of the Korean War armistice and the creation of the Dimilitarized Zone, the border that divides North and South Korea is heavily armed. A call has been put out for all Christians world wide to Fast and Pray for North Korea on Sunday July 27th.
Pray for restoration of Human Rights.
Pray for the salvation of prisoners, guards and for the concentration camps to be permanently closed.
Pray for those who are starving and for breakthroughs for Christian workers to reach the poorest communities.
These are just a few of the prayer points...I believe you can go to Open Doors to get specific prayer points.

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Pray for Sudan


I just visited GRN site and there is a request for prayer for the people of Loka,Sudan...A group calling themselves LRA ( I believe the letters stand for the Lord's resistant army.) have entered a village and took 45 people with them and one boy lost everything..there is much tension....they request prayer ...for specific information please go to the GRN site. Loka is where GRN have rebuilt a school.

Sunday, July 20, 2008

cloud of witnesses...

Tuesday evening- we just finished praying for the persecuted church. We have been walking home from church after our weekly prayer meetings. By walking home we save bus fare and hopefully the exercise will help me shed the many, many lbs. I have put on over the years. Well each week it has been getting harder and harder to walk home...the heat and the mosquitoes make the hour and half walk difficult. Friday we canceled the weekly intercessory prayer at the church (we did pray at home) because it was to reach over 9o degrees. I already felt like a whimp and whiner for opting to pray from home rather than at the church.
THEN:
This week-end I read "In the Presence of My Enemies" the story of The Burnhams, a missionary couple that were kidnapped and held hostage by a terrorist group for over a year. They had to deal with hunger, insects, humiliating circumstances and all this not knowing if they would survive the day. Gracia shared in this book how she and her husband Martin saw that God revealed to them the thoughts in their own hearts and reminded them that they were to love their enemies. They learned to make the best of their circumstances. Martin died in a battle between those who captured them and those who were sent to rescue them and Gracia took a bullet in her leg.
They had to rely on memory in order to hold on to the promises of God. They saw the smallest gesture of kindness as the Lord's mercy on them. How quickly our lives can change. I thank God for the freedom to worship with other believers, to read His word freely and the opportunity to get to know Him. I thank Him for people such as Gracia who share their testimony even though it is painful. I am thankful for her humbleness because she shared the truth even when the truth wasn't especially complimentary about herself. What an amazing witness.

Friday, July 18, 2008

VOM offer...

Voice of the Martyrs blog persecution.com is offering free bracelets as reminders to keep China in prayer during the Summer Olympics.
July 12, 2008
GET YOUR FREE OLYMPIC PRAYER BAND
180x90_Prayer-Bands-v2

280x190_prayerbandsv2The Voice of the Martyrs is very excited to offer you a FREE Olympic prayer band and we would love for you to get as many as you'd like and tell all of your blogging friends to share about it.

If you get a band and/or are telling your blogs, please leave me a comment or email me at stacyharp@gmail.com so I can keep track. We really would like to know how you are helping, and we THANK YOU in advance!

CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR FREE BAND TODAY

Posted by Stacy L. Harp

Monday, July 14, 2008

Let Us Pray

I don't know about your community but it is very difficult to get people together for times of prayer in my community. I have heard the call of God on my heart for us to gather together seeking His Face. 11 chronicles 7:14 has been placed on my heart and I believe it is also on more than a few others in our nation. I confess when I hear about the prayer that is going on through out the nation and how people are responding to and seeking the Lord on behalf of our nation-I am a bit jealous. I have a great deal of respect of those who are alone in the church day after day seeking the Lord in prayer. They are pouring out their hearts before the Lord, standing in the gap for their communities and our nation. They have not grown weary of well doing. If the Lord has put this call to prayer on your heart and you know of someone else in your community who is standing in the gap- join them...If you find that in your community it begins with you then be willing to step up and stand in the gap- invite and encourage others to join you. Pray that Pastors, deacons, elders and leaders will join with other Pastors, deacons, elders and leaders in your community for a time(s) of prayer. To those who reside in communities that are gathering together in prayer - Please pray for those of us who are not yet experiencing that kind of commitment to prayer. Please keep our Pastors and Leaders in prayer that they will reach out to each other and we will have unity in our communities.

Summer Games

It won't be long before all eyes will be on China watching the Summer Olympics. The athletes have been preparing for this event-each wanting their chance to earn the gold. The crowds cheering them on. While all this is happening...Christians in China are being placed in prison, Bibles and Christian materials are being taken from them, some are being taken from their homes, some are suffering torture and beatings....for specific information check out sites such as Voice of The Martyrs and Open Doors. Remember those who are in bonds! Remember to keep them in our prayers. Thank God for faithful people who give all and will not deny the name of Jesus even at the cost of family, home and life. Pray that the Lord will strengthen, encourage, protect and embolden those who have not denied His Name. Let our prayers cheer them on to finish the race that the Lord has called them to. Let us pray that many will come to salvation through these precious saints.

Monday, June 23, 2008

GRN

Tom Zurowski from Global Response Network recently visited Uganda and the Sudan this is a video from that trip...

Friday, June 13, 2008

The "E"Ticket ride

While spending time outside, enjoying some time in the shade, I found myself remembering a time spent with my sister and her family. We were at an amusement park and my nephew Michael wanted to go on the roller coaster. No one else would go on the ride. So I volunteered. Once on the ride I was screaming to get off- I could not wait for the ride to be over. Once off the ride I was boasting about how much fun I had. I also remember taking steps only to find out there is no turning back, no turning to the left or the right. Times when I would say oh why, oh why did I take that step. I felt thrust into a situation where there is no turning back, I was moving forward but not on my own strength, I was not in control (not the same as being out of control). I believe the Lord showed mercy by propelling me through situations that I was not strong enough to handle but needed to go through. Only to be overjoyed and filled with peace when it was all over. I believe there are times when our steps are ordered by the Lord and there is danger on every side but we are covered and protected by the Lord. There are times when we may not even remember the destination but we remember the journey and how the Lord guided and protected us. My friend used to call this the "E" ticket ride...Exciting and Eternal...

Monday, June 9, 2008

the two week challenge

I am currently reading a book written by Elizabeth Elliot and last night what I read offered a challenge...the challenge...stop complaining for the next two weeks! In the book the question was set before me...is complaining what is keeping me from entering into the promise land? This morning was to be day one and before my feet reached the floor...there it was...the first complaint of the day...this is going to be a struggle....I am looking forward to victory in this area and I assume those who have heard my many complaints throughout the years will be blessed by the sounds of silence where there once had been a barrage of complaints. That may be my first step- if you don't have something nice to say- Don't say anything. I look forward to the day where Praising the Lord in all my circumstances will be my immediate and constant constant response.

Wednesday, June 4, 2008

Still Waiting

Still waiting....I want to jump into something else...go forward with prayer meetings...yet this seems to be a not yet time...the same seems to hold true for employment(this has been one long -not yet)
I go so far with okay I'll wait and trust the Lord...then I get impatient, fearful and think well maybe I didn't hear right and jump in and take action...so far this has been a mistake...
At times it is physically, emotionally, psychologically uncomfortable. I liken this to losing weight- I have gained 10 lbs for every year since I moved back to N.Y.- It has been 8 yrs that I have been overweight...so I have been wanting to lose weight for a long time...within those eight years I have attempted to change my eating habits and exercise...but I have not been consistent for one reason or other...
So while it seems like I have been "waiting" a long, long time...because I have jumped in and tried to have things my way - I have not truly been waiting...waiting on my Lord and Savior looking to Him for direction and guidance...trusting His timing...not panic during the quiet times....I see that sometimes I want to jump into something, just do something is because I don't want to face what is confronting me at the time. I don't know how to stay put when it gets uncomfortable...sure there is a time to move out of uncomfortable situations but there are other times that dealing with the uncomfortable will lead to healing and deliverance...and my uncomfortableness seems to be more an internal rather than in an external circumstance.

Saturday, May 24, 2008

Still

Still struggling to walk the surrendered life...so many, many times I want to do things my way and in my time. I have often ran ahead only to be disappointed and have to acknowledge that the Lord did not give me the go ahead. I still lack maturity...as soon as an idea or thought forms in my heart or mind-I want to go forward with "my" plans. I don't like to wait!!!

Monday, April 21, 2008

Self presevation vs the Surrendered life

The Lord ask us to forgive those who hurt us, bless them who curse you...We are to consider others more than ourselves...it has been about three weeks since I have been hurt by someone in the church...I have found another place to worship and fellowship. But my prayers for those who hurt me are superficial at best...I believe that the Lord is showing me that my focus in on self and He wants my focus to be on Him to trust Him and keep those who hurt me in prayer with an open heart of compassion. I believe the Lord would have me stop trying to protect myself and trust Him to protect me. I don't want to give them an opportunity to hurt me again and this makes sense to me...but living in fear is not of the Lord. My prayer was and remains for the Lord to show me how to work through this - How to let go of self and love them I don't know how to do this- but I am prayerfully seeking the Lord to do this work in my heart. I believe this is a request He will Honor because it is His will that we love one another. My mind keeps reasoning so I am also asking Jesus to be Lord of my thoughts and in the name of Jesus cast out all thoughts that would exalt itself against the knowledge of God. I am beginning to see that I should read Romans again and perhaps again: I know what to do but the thing that I should do I do not...
Thank God for His Word and for those who teach , preach and testify of His Word. His word is a Living Word.

Saturday, April 12, 2008

I'll Stand By You

Earlier this week I started singing I'll Stand By You. I don't have a Pretenders cd so I did a search online.
I listened over and over again. I felt the Lord saying hear this song as if I am singing it to you. I have been in pain for a few weeks...as I listened to the song again and again I felt comforted and Loved as I let my thoughts and heart hear the Lord telling me that He'll Stand By Me...He won't let nobody hurt me...even in my darkest hour...He will never desert me...there is nothing I confess that will make Him love me Less...He'll stand by me...won't let nobody Hurt me...I don't remember the lyrics verbatim...
I am amazed and grateful at all the ways Jesus will let us know that He Loves us and will protect us...Our God is a very personal God and loves us deeply and intimately. Every time I hear that song now I will think upon how Jesus used it to get me through a painful night.

Friday, April 4, 2008

Grace & Mercy is the way to go

While taking a walk with my husband yesterday - I shared what I believed the Lord was showing me about the last week...I believed the Lord was showing me that I wanted Judgement...that I had the mistaken idea that granting mercy and grace to the person who wronged me was allowing them to continue this wrong...I believe that the Lord was showing me that Judgement could not do what Grace and Mercy could -it was Grace and Mercy that gave me salvation, forgiveness, healing and deliverance...It is judgement that says I deserve punishment it is Grace and Mercy that saved me from that punishment...I am to trust God and extend Grace and Mercy to the person who wounded me...I knew all this...I just didn't recognize that I went into judging instead of applying Grace and Mercy in this particular situation...I didn't see my character....I wanted to be justified and defended -wanted someone else exposed for what they did to me...yet did not consider what if it were me...how would I want to be treated...my answer is with Grace, Mercy, Love, Forgiveness and sensitivity. I blew it! But Praise be to God...He continues to forgive and extend Grace and Mercy and He ask that I do the same...If I forgive others He is Faithful to Forgive me...What an awesome God we serve..I am still praying for the Lord to show me how to work through this...for to be honest...I still want others to know my side...if I do that than I am exposing someone else and I now believe that the Lord does not want me to do this. When I thought I was mature I see how childish I can be.

Wednesday, April 2, 2008

Pain

this has been a very painful week-end. We had a congregational meeting this week-end and the fall out has caused me to leave my church. I have never felt this much pain. I am seeking the Lord for healing and to show me how to work through this. The hurt is still so new...I know the danger of being out of fellowship but right now I find it hard to trust anyone with my emotions and pain. I do have a friend from another church who offered prayer and fellowship...they promised that they would call me if I don't contact them soon. Those who I have spent years in fellowship - have not reached out to me.

Friday, March 28, 2008

Remember those in bonds

It's Friday and I am preparing for our weekly meeting to pray for those who are Persecuted for their faith in Jesus Christ. This summer I attended a Voice of the Martyrs conference in NYC. Two speakers from Voice of the Martyrs gave a presentation at our church in October. About the same time a Pastor from Pakistan visited with our Pastor and we now have a weekly service in Urdu. Voice of the Martyrs has a very informative site and offers a number of ways to become involved in supporting the persecuted church. On the site you can compose a letter to prisoners in their own language, you can read about prisoners and their countries. You can send bibles through Bibles Unbound. You can receive prayer alerts via email and they also have a free newsletter. There is so much more to their site- persecution.com . I encourage everyone to visit this site and pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ. It is a amazing how many of those who are persecuted pray for those who are persecuting them.

Thursday, March 20, 2008

Jesus Prays

Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;
That they all may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou has loved me may be in them, and I in them.
John 17: 20-26