New Beginnings

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.” ~ Jeremiah 29:11-13 (ESV)

Do you made/make resolutions for the new year? I don't this year. You know why? Because I break them within the first week of the new year. I know it sounds bad, but it is the truth.

Last year I set out to read the Bible in a year; like I had so many years before. I was doing very well for over 6 months. I don't know what happened; I just stopped following the printed plan I got from a website. I don't think I do very well with long-term laid out plans. I guess I am just to hyper to stay on track.

One thing I did do though. I stayed in His Word; just not by a designed plan. I know that some of you (probably most of you) do well with structured plans and stay on track (any hints for me you might want to share?). I guess it is just not for me.

Like I said, I don't do well with new year's resolutions, so this year I am not making any. Do I have plans, goals or dreams for 2008? Oh yes, I do! Some of my dreams are huge and I am not sure if they will become reality. Will I fret at the end of 2008 when some of my dreams or plans have not become reality? Nope! I just trust His Spirit to guide me to walk the path He wants me to walk.

Although the above passage was directed to God's people in exile, I make the passage mine to guide me through 2008. I will 'breath' the passage in the new year. You see, God's Word is just as fresh today as it was over 2,500 years ago. I will stick to His promise that His plans are for my welfare – that He is giving me a future and a hope that never disappoints.

“Lord of Heaven and Earth. Thank You for Your promise to have only our welfare on Your mind. Thank You for giving us a future and a hope. Lord, I humbly ask You today that You will bless the efforts of Your children and servants in 2008. Lord, keep us close to You and Your Word, no matter what happens. In the precious name of Jesus ~ Amen.”

This will be my last post on the Internet Cafe. I want to thank the Lord for His grace when He supplied the words to share with you. I want to thank Darlene for the opportunity to share my faith with a larger readership. And I especially want to thank the readers for your kind comments over the past months.

Lisa and Linda - I pray that God will guide you through 2008; that He will bless you, the entire Internet Cafe blogging team beyond your expectations and dreams.

IN HIM,

Iris

He Sees Your Heart

“But the Lord said to Samuel, 'Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.'” ~ 1 Samuel 16:7 (ESV)

Do you get intimidated by the talents and gifts of others? I have to admit – I do. I marvel at women who can do it all...Homemade crafts, home backed cookies, homemade clothing. I think it is so cool that women can do that. It seems that God gave me two left hands when it comes to home-made things; well maybe for cooking – I am half decent in that department...

I remember years back I wanted to make a banner for our church to hang in the sanctuary. It seemed easy enough. I checked with a couple of ladies from church, got my supplies and went at it...

Let me tell you: it looks much easier than it is. Of course, I didn't start with a small banner; no it had to be huge. My husband asked me what I was trying to do when I got home with all my supplies under the arm. With a huge smile on my face I explained my vision about a wonderful banner in purple. All he did was smile...

For the next three weeks I was at it. Cutting, sewing by hand (yeah – I don't even have a sewing machine), tears running down my face. I had promised a purple banner, so I was going to make a purple banner...

Sometimes I get so intimidated by others, that I forget that God might not has given me a certain talent. I might not be able to be crafty with my hands, but I have different talents and gifts. I am unique to Him. He equips me with the talents and gifts He sees fit for me. He handpicks us for certain tasks, just like He handpicked David to become Israel's king.

Did I finish the banner? Yes, by His grace I did. It was ready in time to be hung in the sanctuary. Will I ever again volunteer to make a banner...No Way!!! I will leave that to the women who are much more talented than I am and who have sewing machines.

My sweet sisters, God gives all of us talents and gifts to further His kingdom. He knows our hearts that we are willing to serve, so He will supply the gifts and talents that are needed. Follow His lead and don't get intimidated by the gifts and talents of others as I did...

Lord of Heaven and Earth. You know our hearts and willingness to serve You. Sometimes we get intimidated by the gifts and talents of others. Help us to see the ministries that are right for us. And thank You Lord for Your extra measure of grace when we need it. In the precious name of Jesus – Amen.



You can also read some of my thoughts on by personal blog "Sting my Heart"...

Christmas with a Capital "C"

"And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." ~ Luke 2:8-11 (ESV)

My car stereo is tuned into KFLR - a Christian Family Radio station. I need that on my way to work. First -- I hear Scripture passages that will be my strength and meditation throughout the day. Second -- they play great Christian music. Since it it Christmas time, you will hear 24 hours Christmas music. On Thursday mornings, Chris and Emilee accept requests from listeners what they want to hear. A couple of weeks ago, a little girl called in to hear "Christmas with a Capital "C"". I have never hear the title or the song before. But it instantly became my favorite song for this year...

First of all - it rocks (the tune) and second, the words are just wonderful. Go Fish teamed up with Christian comedian Brad Stine (yeah - a comedian that actually uses NO curse words - how refreshing is that???) to record this piece. Brad Stine is talking about how we have moved away from wishing everyone a "Merry Christmas", because we don't want to offend or exclude anyone. He further says: "Even after 2,000, Christ still is intimidating people"...I wonder why?

If the statics are correct and only 30% of the American population is not Christian, how can we offend so many people by saying "Merry Christmas"? Is it because most Americans have moved away from the true meaning of the holiday? Is it really all about giving and receiving gifts? Have we, as Christians, falling into the same trap of commercial Christmas? Giving and receiving expensive gifts? Have we not received the ultimate Gift from God?

I challenge you, my beloved, this Christmas season to freely share "Merry Christmas" with all the people you come in contact with. If His spirit moves you, witness to your Muslim, Jewish, Buddhist, or Atheist neighbors. Give the Gift that keeps on giving...Share the true meaning of the season...

Lord of Heaven and Earth. You have humbled Yourself to become human for us. Help us to honor You this Christmas. Help us to share that You came down from heaven to save us all. We are trusting in Your mercy. We pray in the precious name of Jesus ~ Amen.



This devotion was first published in December of 2006 on Laced with Grace. If you time stop by Sting my Heart for a 'unique cup' giveaway - you still have time until Wednesday, December 5th.

Comfort Food for the Soul

“In you, O Lord, do I take refuge;
let me never be put to shame!
In your righteousness deliver me and rescue me;
incline your ear to me, and save me!
Be to me a rock of refuge,
to which I may continually come;
you have given the command to save me,
for you are my rock and my fortress.”
~ Psalm 71:1-3 (ESV)

Do you have a comfort food? I do. No it is not chocolate, but stuffed peppers with mashed potatoes. This dish reminds me of home; so once in a while I have to make stuffed peppers. Mind you, mine are not nearly as good as my mom's, but they still taste good. I had the urge to make twice this past month...

When I made the peppers this past Sunday, I thought about comfort food for the soul. The Psalms have been my comfort food. I am not sure why they have comforted me more than any other Bible passages. Maybe because most of them are written when God's people have been in distress.

“Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked,
from the grasp of the unjust and cruel man.
For you, O Lord, are my hope,
my trust, O Lord, from my youth.
Upon you I have leaned from before my birth;
you are he who took me from my mother's womb.
My praise is continually of you.”
~ Psalm 71:4-6 (ESV - emphasis mine)

Yes, I can trust my Lord for comforting me, because He is always there—I just have to reach for Him. And so can you too, my dear beloved. Making stuffed papers takes time, but reaching out to the Lord only takes a second. Next time you need some comfort food, reach for your Bible, pick a Psalm and pray through it. I know it settles me down. Not only is His Word comforting, but it is also calorie-free.

Lord of Heaven and Earth. Thank You for being my comfort food in times of stress. You are my Hope, my Rock I can lean on when I am weak. Lord, remind me when I am down to reach for You and Your comforting words. In the precious name of Jesus I pray ~ Amen.

I want to wish you and your family a blessed Thanksgiving. May He be your comfort this holiday and always.

Not a Pretty Smell

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” ~ Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV)

To be honest with you, I didn't let my light shine before others this past Monday...I got really upset with a co-worker. I had received a call from the field--they needed to get a hold of a person that apparently never answered phone calls. The caller was wondering if my co-worker was on vacation, because she tried for a couple of days; didn't receive a call back, and now couldn't even leave a voice-message because the voice-mail was full.

Self-righteously, I stomped over to the person's desk to tell him that he really needed to take this phone call. Normally my tone of voice is soft, but not that morning. I didn't stop there—I complained to another co-worker about the work ethics of this particular person...I really don't know what got into me that morning. Okay, so I am over-worked, but that does not give me the right to be such a snob.

“But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life. Who is sufficient for these things? For we are not, like so many, peddlers of God's word, but as men of sincerity, as commissioned by God, in the sight of God we speak in Christ.” ~ 2 Corinthians 2:14-17 (ESV emphasis mine)

I was not a fragrance; but a stench! Yuck! I totally lost my focus that morning--I took my eyes off of Him, acted self-righteous. I could have been kinder to my co-worker, but still got the same result—for him to take the phone call.

No matter if I am over-worked, or I am not in a good mood, I need to let my light shine. I need Him to take over in situations that I can not handle well on my own...

Lord of Heaven and Earth. I am sorry that I sometimes don't handle stress situations well. Lord, help me to focus on You when I am in situations like that. Help my to let my light shine and be a beautiful smell to the ones around me—among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. I want to live my life to bring glory to you. In the precious name of Jesus I pray – Amen.

Gone In Seconds...

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
~ Matthew 6:19-21 (ESV)

Many of my California friends are affected by the raging wild-fires (although we don't know if they are truly 'wild'). Listing to the morning radio show on KFLR on my way to work this morning, the hosts posed the following question to their audience:

“With all of the coverage of the California fires, you have to wonder what you’d do if the situation were on your own front porch. You get a knock on the door at five in the morning from the fire department telling you to get out. You got the family out, the house is on fire, you have time to go grab one more thing: what do you grab?”

The question bounced around my head all day. I don't know how I would have answered it if I would have called in. How would you have answered it if you knew everything would be gone in seconds? One thing that kept running through my mind was God's word of Matthew 6. Jesus is telling His listeners on the mount not to store up treasures here on earth, but to lay up treasures in Heaven.

I think the same is true for us over 2,000 years later. Although I don't think (personal belief) that God frowns upon our earthly possessions itself, but I think we should not get too attached to them. All we have here on earth is a gift from Him – on a temporary basis. Our biggest Treasure is in Heaven waiting for us to welcome us home...

Back to the question from the morning show...I know I would be very sad if I would lose all the things we have accumulated over the years. Many have great memories attached to them. My Bible(s) and Bible study workbooks – they have my spiritual growth recorded. My books – I laughed and cried with the heroes and heroins. My pictures – childhood memories, my family, my friends. My CD collection – worship music that I enjoy listening and singing...it truly is hard to choose, isn't it? I still don't have an answer what I would grab. One good thing though; my valuable jewelry I wear every single day—don't even take it off at night *smile*.

Although my earthly possessions are valuable in some shape or form, I won't let them break my heart if I no longer have them. It would break my heart if I would loose sight of my Savior though...

“Lord of Heaven and Earth. Thank you for all the wonderful 'treasures' You have granted me this side of Heaven. Lord, help me to keep my eyes focused on the valuable Treasure I have in Heaven. Help me not to lose sight what truly is important. Grant me to share the Treasure of Heaven with all the ones that don't know Him yet. In the precious name of Jesus I pray ~ Amen.”

My sweet sisters (brothers?), please keep all people in California in your prayers that they might all stay safe and that their homes will not be destroyed.

Are You Running?

Sometimes we feel like we are at the bottom. Instead of running to God when we slip away from Him, we try to hide from Him--we try to escape. We are afraid that He might not love us because we have messed up again. Let me share an excerpt from Darlene's book "The Mom Complex" (used with permission):

"My sin-spotted life is in contrast to the white robe that He's given me. The robe of righteousness is a symbol of my Father's love. When I go astray, He calls me back, and when I'm silent for a moment, He calls me again..."

Darlene is right. Our sin-spotted life is in contrast, but there is nothing, absolutely nothing that ever can separate us from the love of our Heavenly Father.

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. ~ Romans 8:37-39 (ESV)

Like the stepping stones in the above picture, so is God's hand guiding you through this life. Even though your might slip here and there, don't run from Him. He will pick you up--no matter what happens. Trust in Him today and always.

Lord of Heaven and Earth. Thank You for your unconditional love for us. Thank you for picking us when we have slipped. The sacrifice of Your son, our Lord, Jesus Christ is incredible and sometimes hard to grasp. Help us to stay close to You until we have finished the race here on earth. We pray in the precious name of Jesus ~ Amen.

Are you running from Him today? What is burdening you today? May we pray for you?



You can also find me at my personal blog Sting My Heart

Change Takes Time

“Then the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.” Now out of the ground the Lord God had formed every beast of the field and every bird of the heavens and brought them to the man to see what he would call them. And whatever the man called every living creature, that was its name. The man gave names to all livestock and to the birds of the heavens and to every beast of the field. But for Adam there was not found a helper fit for him.” ~ Genesis 2:18-20 (ESV)

I am a little sore, scratched up and sun-burned today. My Sweetheart and I cleaned our backyard. What a task it was. During the hot summer months, there is not much we can do in our backyard—it is just way too hot. Normally my hubby does all the yard-work, but I thought it is about time I help him. I thought it would be easy to pick up the dead branches that were left from the last spring cleaning…oh was I wrong. My entire body aches.

As I was cleaning with my beloved, I thought about how much God has changed me over the past 25 years—especially the past 2 ½ yeas of our marriage. I realized how much I have been self-centered. It is hard to admit that I have not been always the helper God wanted me to be. The biggest hurdle for me was respecting my husband.

Oh, don’t get me wrong, I always loved my husband, but respect is totally different. I used to moan or roll my eyes about certain things. God showed me through His Word that all my actions are disrespecting my husband – ouch.

You see, I always wanted to spend all our free-time together, but my husband needed some time to unwind. And when we did things, they were always what I wanted to do. Not thinking that my beloved wanted to do something else. Over the years we have developed some of the same interests, like photography. In other things we are still worlds apart, especially when it comes to movies.

I still don’t like horror movies…I used to leave the room with pouting and grumbling under my breath. Today I leave the room with a kiss, tell my Sweetheart that I love him but that I’d rather do something else. Just this little change has brought a little more harmony into our marriage…

Lord of Heaven and Earth. Thank You for Your patience with me. Thank You for showing me what it means to be a helper to my husband. Lord, continue to guide me in our marriage that I will be wife my husband deserves. In the precious name of Jesus ~ Amen.



You can also find me at my personal blog Sting My Heart

Simply Believe

“Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits,
who forgives all your iniquity,
who heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit,
who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy.”
~ Psalm 103:2-4 (ESV)

Working with over 600 employees at the corporate office (300 in the accounting department), I come in contact with many different faiths. One of my coworker’s I work-side-by-side is Muslim—a devout Muslim. Since this is the month of Ramadan, he is fasting from sunrise to sundown. He is also expected to put more effort into following the teachings of Islam as well as refraining from anger, envy, greed, lust, sarcastic retorts, backbiting, and gossip.

Driving to work the other day, I though about my own faith. My co-worker’s faith is based on his own works to make it to heaven. Do you realize that Christianity is the only faith on this earth that is not based on works of an individual? All we have to do is to believe. Believe that the work has been done by one Man—Jesus Christ. He stretched out His arms to remove our sins – as far the east is from the west…

“He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west,
so far does he remove our transgressions from us.”
~ Psalm 103:10-12 (ESV)

It still amazes me every single day how gracious our Lord is. Even though I have sinned and continue to sin, He removes every single stain to make me white as snow. I don’t deserve His goodness—He continues to love me. His love brings me to tears every single day—I don’t know how to thank Him for that.

Although I am not required to do works, I still want to refrain from anger, envy, greed, lust, sarcastic retorts, backbiting, and gossip. Not because it is my ‘ticket’ to heaven, but I want to thank Him for His sacrifice.

As for my co-worker, I pray for him. I pray that he will get curious about me own faith. That maybe one day he will ask me questions what Christianity is all about? I am ready for his questions…

Lord of Heaven and Earth. I want to thank You today for Your love. You don’t require works from me to spend eternity with You. You have accomplished it at the cross. Lord, I ask You today to open the hearts of the ones who do not know You yet. Give me the words to share, to point to the cross. In the precious name of Jesus I pray ~ Amen.

Do you know Him yet? Do you want to know more about Him and His saving grace? If you are ready to give Him your life, please visit our “Ready” page.



You can also find me at my personal blog Sting My Heart

Holding Fast

“Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.” ~ Philippians 2:14-16 (ESV)

Saying that I have had a trying summer would be an understatement. I had previously shared that many changes have occurred, still are, in my professional and personal life.

Not only got I a little discouraged with all the changes, but I truly got discouraged with my ‘online life’ as well. I was ready to throw in the towel couple of weeks ago--my email server got hacked. I was denied access by the hosting company to my own email. I couldn’t communicate with my online world as I was used to.

I had to make a decision. Do I really want to go through all the hassle moving hosting companies with my Blogs? Although I am somewhat technical savvy, moving entire Blogs was not really something I wanted to do—or had the time for. Other attacks came too, but I don’t want to go into that.

I prayed, asked a couple of my online friends if I should continue, or just give up. One of my dearest online friends said “Well you could throw in the towel; you would have an easier life, and have more time for scrapping, and doing what you enjoy. But you wouldn't be making a difference in things that matter eternally. You would not be spreading God's word and being a light through this computer screen. The attacks won't stop, the comments won't go away, and the difficulties unfortunately may always be thorn in the side.”

What a wise friend. Yes, we are in the middle of a battle. Sometimes it is seen, other times it is not. Jesus never said that life this side of heaven would be easy. There will be attacks from the world, or even within the church.

Paul is telling us to hold fast to the word of life. No matter what will happen, no matter how hard the attacks get, stay strong, my sweet sisters. It is so worth it! There is so much darkness in this world, but He is using us and the technology of the Internet to spread a little light. With Him we can stand the attacks we face every single day, in real life and online.

“So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” ~ Philippians 2:1-4 ESV.

Lord of Heaven and Earth. I want to thank You for sending wise friends into my life. Yes, sometimes it is easy to just throw in the towel, to give up. You equipped us to be the light in the world. Lord, help us to shine no matter what. I the precious name of Jesus I pray ~ Amen.



You can also find me at my personal blog Sting My Heart

In A Blink of An Eye

“For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.” ~ Matthew 25:42-43 (ESV)

When I worked at the church office, many people stopped by to request help. Help for food or for shelter. Some days it was really bad, especially during the summer months. Most of the time I felt compassion, but some days I was ‘bothered’. Before you get upset, let me explain where the ‘bother’ comes in…I didn’t know when people were lying to me. Did they really need the money/food voucher to buy baby-formula or were they looking to get the next bottle of gin. Yes it happened that those vouchers were ‘converted’ to alcohol or even drugs…

The other day I was thinking back to the days when I was short--I had no time to be ‘bothered’ with the needs of others. Did I ever take the time to truly listen to their stories? Why were they on the street? Why don’t they have a job to pay for food or rent? I have to admit that I only listen to the ones that had children. It broke my heart having a family standing in the church office begging for money.

But what about the transit that stopped in? Yes, he might have smelled bad, but I am sure he was not always a transit. I am certain at one point he had family—he had a house and job. To tell you the truth, I wish I would have asked him why he was living on the street. He might have been a veteran who never found his way back into society. He might have been really sick—couldn’t pay the medical bills. So now he has to leave on the streets because they took his home and family. I will never know since I never ask to hear his story.

How about the young woman who was a drug addict? Why was she so broken deep down inside? Why did I never ask her to tell me her story? I am certain that she experienced something terrible in her life—her way ‘out’ were drugs…

“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.” ~ Matthew 25:35-36 (ESV)

Some days I forget how much my Lord has blessed me. I never had to go hungry, I never had to sleep under the stars (except by choice); I have always been healthy. I have to realize thought that all this can change in a blink of an eye…

“Lord of Heaven and Earth. I am asking You today to open my heart to the needy. Open my ears to hear their story. Help my to show compassion as You have shown me. Lord, I know that You have blessed me beyond words. Thank you, Lord…In the precious name of Jesus ~ Amen.



You can also find me at my personal blog Sting My Heart

This devotion was in part inspired by the song “The Twenty-First Time” by Monk & Neagle

Let Go and Let God...

"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." ~ Philippians 4:8 (ESV)

Sunday afternoon I was not in a very pleasant mood, believe me. You know how you plan out things just to scrap (pun intended) all your plans? Well, that was me Sunday...

All week I had planned to scrap some baby pictures of our son. I wanted to create some lasting memories for my little digi-scrap book; since the pictures just have been in a box for over 20 years. I had some of them scanned during the week, picked out the digi-supplies I wanted to use. Around noon time our son came up with the idea that he needed pants, that he needed 'stuff' for his apartment. To top things off, he wanted to keep the student loan payment because he needed to make all these purchases. I almost blew my top...

"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand;" ~ Philippians 4:4-5 (ESV emphasis mine)

Huffing and puffing I went the bathroom praying..."Lord, really, where is the reason here. Why do I always have to scrap all my plans to be there for Daniel..." -- It never fails - God showed up to change my heart. There was something deeper than just the scrapped scrap-booking project, was there? For goodness sake! The pictures have been in a box for over 20 years.

You know what the issue is/was? I am scared. I am scared that I have failed to raise our son properly. Can he wash his own clothes? Can he prepare a meal other than Raman Noodles or scrambled eggs? He doesn't have his drivers license-how will he get around? Will he pay his bills on time? All these questions flooded my mind.

The 15 minutes I spent in the bathroom praying changed everything. I knew the root of my foul mood. I felt that I did not prepare our son for a life away from home. God calmed my spirit and changed my mood. Needless to say, I enjoyed the time shopping with our son. He showed me that he can take care of himself. We bought clothes together, he picked out some towels for his apartment...we had fun. If you are wondering about the student loan payment...our son gave me the money.

"I can do all things through him who strengthens me." ~ Philippians 4:13 (ESV)

Lord of Heaven and Earth. Thank You so much for changing my heart on Sunday afternoon. I am glad that You are there to guide my heart, mind and spirit. I know that I need to let go and let You take care of the rest. I am trusting in Your mercy. In the precious name of my Lord and Savior, in Jesus' name I pray ~ Amen.



You can also find me at my personal blog Sting My Heart

Cry Out to Jesus

And Peter answered him, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." He said, "Come." So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, "Lord, save me." ~ Matthew 14:28-30 (ESV)

I always loved the story of Peter trying to walk on water. Although Peter walked closely with our Lord, he still displayed fear. He even doubted that he could accomplish some unbelievable tasks.

I am sure that you had weeks that are totally discouraging to you—just like my past week. I was so full of energy after last weekend--I was ready to take on anything that came my way.

Little did I know that we would receive a call that someone in my husband’s family died a tragic death. That was Tuesday…My energy was gone within a few minutes. I didn’t know how to make it through the rest of my week. All I could do was cry out to the Lord.

Thursday I received a message that someone’s son was in trouble—big trouble. All I could do was to lift her and her family up in prayer.

Friday afternoon I read that one of my online friends lost two family members. All I could do was to send her a message that I was praying for her.

Saturday night I received an email from a dear friend that she had to go the emergency room. I immediately lifted her up in prayer.

Why am I telling you all about the pain and suffering today? And what does it have to do with Peter and him walking on water. My point is, if we don’t know what else to do, we can cry out to Jesus. He is always there to give us a hand and lift our head. He will always comfort, always heal the pain. That is how I got through my week. Reaching for His saving hand…

“Your steadfast love, O LORD, extends to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the clouds.
Your righteousness is like the mountains of God;
your judgments are like the great deep;
man and beast you save, O LORD.” ~ Psalm 34:5-6 (ESV)

Lord of Heaven and Earth. Thank you for getting me through this week. Lord your steadfast love extends to the heavens. Thank You reminding me to cry out to Jesus to rescue me. When I don’t know where else to turn, I can be certain that You will sustain me through any storm that might hit my waters. In the precious name of Jesus ~ Amen.



You can also find me at my personal blog Sting My Heart

With Prayers and Actions

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” ~ Philippians 4:4-7 (ESV)

Couple of week’s ago as I was reading one of my friend’s Thankful Thursday posts, tears were streaming down my face. You see, she lives a life in the military—her husband is an officer in Okinawa, Japan. Many of her friend’s husbands are serving currently in Iraq. One of her close friends told her that she is moved to tears each night at 10pm her time because it means that God has given her another day with her husband in her life. The Casualty Officer (the one who comes to tell you if you husband has died) will not come after 10pm to bear the bad news.

Growing up as a daughter of a police officer I know what it means that your spouse/dad might not come home from a shift. I was very blessed that when my Sweetheart and I were engaged that there were no ‘active’ conflicts/wars. Although the threat of terrorist attacks was very real where my beloved was stationed, he was some what safe.

We all know someone who has a family member in the military (Laurel will write about it tomorrow in her post). As we are celebrating the 4th of July tomorrow here in the US, let us lift up our sisters (and brothers for that matter) in prayer who have a family member in Iraq or Afghanistan. Let us also pray for the men and women who are in combat.

In addition to that, I will donate one of our son’s old cell-phones to “Cell Phones for Soldiers”. The local Christian radio station that I am tuned into every day collects old cell phones to convert them into phone minutes for families to talk to each other while on active duty. If you have time, please follow the link above and see if there is a drop-off location in your neck of the woods. It is for a good cause.

Lord of Heaven and Earth. You have placed us in a country that is blessed with freedom. Lord, give us a heart to pray for the ones who are currently separated from their loved ones. Help us to see the need to reach out in prayer and let us help with actions if all possible. In the precious name of Jesus ~ Amen.



You can also find me at my personal blog Sting My Heart

Costly Freedom…

“Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.” ~ Hebrews 10:19-22 (ESV)

Over the last couple of days I was reading through Hebrews. As I was reading the passages of our High Priest, I was reminded of a story from my childhood—a true story.

Many of you know that I grew up in Germany—a divided Germany. In 1975 our class took a trip to Berlin. As we visited all the touristy places in Western Berlin (the free side), we ended up at the Elbe River. The Elbe River had a dark history. You see, Berlin was divided between England, France, the US and Russia. People living in the English, French and US sections lived as free people. Not so the people in the Russian sector.

Many people tried to swim across the Elbe River to reach the free sections of Berlin. The bad part was that the river was saturated with mines. Many lost their lives trying to reach freedom. I remember standing in front of all the crosses that were erected on the free side in memory of all the lost lives. I was devastated—a little too much for a 14-year-old girl.

On our return home, I told my parents how deeply this visit had affected me. Before my dad became a police officer, he served as a border guard between the two Germanys—at one time in Berlin. He told me the story of a young man who tried to cross over to the free sector. The young man got shot right before he reached the free sector—right before the eyes of my dad. You can imagine how this affected my dad. He told me that he sometimes could still see the young man’s face, reaching out for him, reaching for freedom…

“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.” ~ Romans 8:1-4 (ESV)

My sweet sisters, Christ set us free from sin and death. He gave us the freedom we were reaching for—freedom in Him. Freedom is always costly. We are blessed that Christ paid the price for us. Let us share the good news with all the ones who are ready to listen.

“Lord of Heaven and Earth. Thank you for shedding Your precious blood in order for us to be free. Help us to never forget how costly this freedom was for You. Open our mouths to reach the ones who have not experienced Your love. In the precious name of Jesus ~ Amen”



You can also find me at my personal blog Sting My Heart

Not Only Sundays...

"Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!
Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!" ~ Psalm 95:1-2 (ESV)

Talking on the phone, reading the newspaper, shaving, putting make-up on. Believe it or not, but this is what I see every morning while driving to work. Some mornings it is really frustrating to drive behind someone who drives 35 in a 45 zone. They are pre-occupied with other things instead of driving.

But isn't that what we do with God? We are pre-occupied with our daily stuff and forget worshiping Him until Sunday. Then we put on our Sunday's best and congregate with other believers. Is our Lord only to be worshiped on Sundays? What about when we do our daily chores? When we change diapers, fold the laundry, cook food or drive to and from work? I challenge you this week and the weeks to come to worship and praise Him every single day. When you fold you laundry sing a song. When you change the diaper, thank and praise Him that you have a bundle of joy to change the diapers for. When you cook, put on your headphones and worship Him. Believe me, everything will go faster when you are in His presence.

As for me, when I am frustrated during the morning commute -- I turn up the music and make a joyful noise to Him with songs of praise. If the driver next to me at the stop-light thinks I lost all my marbles because I raise my hands to Him -- I just turn and smile...



"Lord of Heaven and Earth. Remind us that worship is not only for Sundays. Lead us in praise and songs throughout the week. Through the power of Your Spirit let us declare Your glory in all things we do. In the precious name of Jesus. Amen."



You can also find me at my personal blog Sting My Heart

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” ~ John 15:1-5 (ESV)

Before I share with you my thoughts on the above passages today, I have a confession to make. I have ‘black thumbs’—honestly, I cannot grow plants; indoor or outdoor. This makes me really sad, because I love plants and flowers.

My three little indoor plants looked very sick. Although I had watered them, they were dying. I told my husband that I wanted to try to ‘rescue’ them. We bought some organic soil and some clay pots at the home-improvement store across the way.

I grabbed my poor little plants, took them out of the plastic container, added my organic soil to the clay-pots, trimmed off the dead parts and set the plants into the new soil…

As I was going about trying to ‘rescue’ the plants, the above passages came to mind. Sometimes our Lord needs to cut some dead branches off of us. Sometimes He even needs to replant us into a better soil in order for us to bear more fruit.

I am not sure if my plant felt anything when I moved them into the new soil and cut their dead branches. When our Lord replants and cuts away dead branches from us, it is always hurtful. Well, it is true for me.

Over the years I have learned that through replanting, losses, sickness and cutting away my dead branches, I have grown in my faith. I know that God, even though it might hurt, has my well-being in mind.

Next time He plans to up-root you and plant you into new soil, don’t be afraid. It might hurt, but it will be for your benefit. To grow you in your faith so you might be able to share with others in their sufferings.

As for my three houseplants? Only time will tell if I was able to ‘rescue’ them. I pray that I replanted them just in time to be beautiful again…

Lord of Heaven and Earth. I know that You have to prune and cut away dead branches in order for me to bear more fruit. Lord, I want to stay close to your vine. I know that I am just a branch and cannot produce fruit on my own. I trust that what ever happens in my life will be a process to grow in my faith and my trust in You. In the precious name of Jesus ~ Amen.

As you are celebrating Memorial Day in the US today, please remember the fallen and currently serving soldiers in your prayers…



Visit me at my personal blog: Sting My Heart

Are We There Yet?

“Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb through the middle of the street of the city; also, on either side of the river, the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit each month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. No longer will there be anything accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever.” ~ Revelation 22:1-5 (ESV)

I remember the road-trips we took when I was a little girl. My parents always made the point to take my sister and me at least 2 weeks during the summer to either Bavaria or Austria--for a fun-filled vacation. Traveling with two little girls from Northern Germany to the most Southern part of Germany into Austria was an adventure in itself. I don’t know what the fascination with Austria was for my parents; except the Glacier water was very clean—and very, very cold. Although we always looked forward to two fun-filled weeks, we dreaded the drive. It took at least 8 hours to get to Southern Germany, and an over-night stay in Bavaria to reach our finial destination in Austria. I loved my dad, but oh my – when he was behind the wheel, he was a mad-man. My mom always made sure that we went to the bathroom before we left, didn’t had too much to drink during the first stage of the trip, because we never knew when the first pit-stop would be. You see, my dad wanted to get us to our destination as quickly as possible—he wanted to enjoy at least 10 days a year with his family away from all the hustle and bustle. One thing that came always by mid-way to Austria: “Are we there yet?”…

Do you hear yourself asking the same question on the road of life-“Are we there yet”? Being in my mid-forties, I am looking forward to the day where things might slow down. But will life really slow down after you have raised your child/children? I don’t think so. There are always new things to learn; there are new twists in the road. Believe me, some days I wish I would be already at my final destination—Home with my heavenly Father. Oh, don’t get me wrong, I love my live, but I am longing for Home when it gets really frustrating down here.

Seeing my Savior face-to-face, asking a question here or there…Sounds great to me. Read the Revelation passage again…Doesn’t is sound marvelous? Worshiping Him without interruption? No more hustle and bustle. The water of life, bright as crystal flowing from His throne…ah!

I know that He still has tasks for me to finish here on earth, so I rejuvenate on a daily basis through Scripture and praise music. I know it is not the same as worshiping Him face-to-face, but it will help me to reach my final destination. I know when you have little children it is not always possible to get rejuvenated on a daily basis, but make it your goal. Your husband, children and you will benefit from it. When you take time with Him, the road of life will be less bumpy—trust me. But foremost trust Him to lighten your travel and get you safely to your final destination…

Lord of Heaven and Earth. You are willing to rejuvenate us when the travel this side of heaven gets bumpy. Lord, help us to make time with You so we will be refreshed for our daily tasks. Help us to clear out our schedule to sit at Your feet and drink from the water of life. We are trusting that You will get us safely to our final destination. In the precious name of Jesus ~ Amen.

Under Pressure...

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” ~ Hebrews 12:1-2 (ESV – emphasis mine)

I guess endurance/perseverance is my motto for this week. Last weekend was so busy with getting things done around the house that my Sweetheart and I didn’t have time to relax. I was hoping for a little R&R, but we had to catch-up on stuff that didn’t get done during the week. I wanted to be fresh for a very busy week at work—long hours were scheduled since we have year-end-close in April/May.

We were all under a lot of pressure in my department. How to do you cope with pressure/stress? As for me I look to Him for strength; I put on my headphones and listen to praise music. Others just walk off the job…I am serious—we had one leave work on Wednesday because the stress was too high (no worries—the person returned on Thursday).

That got me thinking about our Lord. What if He would have said ‘No’ to the pressure He was under? He could have just refused to be the sacrifice for all of us. He could have said ‘No’ to the cross. What would have happened to us? I know that I could not save myself. I could never fulfill all the commandments God has set before me.

But our Lord said YES to the cross—despite the pain that came with it. His love for us was much greater than the shame He would have to endure…

I am glad that He poured hope into my heart when He took my sins and nailed them to the cross. With His strength I can make it through year-end-closing at work or through busy weekends…How about you? Will you travel the road of life with a smile on your face and a song of praise on your lips because of the hope He has given you? I pray you do…

“More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” ~ Romans 5:3-5 (ESV)

Lord of Heaven and Earth. Thank you for saying YES to the cross. Thank you for enduring the pain and the shame. Lord, help me to travel the road of life with a smile on my face and a song of praise on my lips. In the precious name of Jesus ~ Amen.

Find Refuge in the Storm...

"God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah"
~ Psalm 46:1-3 (ESV)

My life has been running like sand through an hour glass. Nothing I can do to stop the days running past me. Some days I can’t even remember what day of the week we have. I had to install a calendar on my laptop to remind me if I have to work or I am off…Ever feel that way? Although I know that I can’t breathe without His Word to get me through the day, I have to ‘sneak in’ time with Him. Let me tell you what happened to me this past Friday…

During the week our alarm goes off at 4:15am and 4:30am. Most mornings I get up at 4:35am. Why? I like the stillness that permeates the house at that time of day. I love to read my first devotional with my first cup of coffee—alone. It is a great start for my busy day.

This past Friday, the alarm went off at its usual time, but I didn’t make it out of bed until 5:18am. I was devastated. No devotion—no coffee. All I could think off was getting my Sweetheart his first coffee made and heading for the shower. For some reason I couldn’t get my eyes open or even form a coherent thought in my head.

Somehow I got the coffee made, woke up my Sweetheart and headed back into our kitchen/dining area. I poured the coffee in a cup and realized that it was not the right coffee. You see, I drink flavored coffee; my hubby likes his coffee darker than dark (almost burned flavor)…’Oh no’, I thought—‘quick, make another coffee before he will notice’.

By that time I could not breathe—literally. Close to tears, I plopped on my chair to have a few minutes with my Lord…I started praying “Lord I am tired, I am burned out…I”. He stopped my prayer in mid-sentence to calm me…

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” ~ Matthew 11:28-30 (ESV)

The rest of the morning went without a hitch. I got ready in time…I prepared breakfast for my Sweetheart, prayed, read a post from one of my friends, made coffee for myself, sent a quick note to some of my sisters in Christ and left the house at the appropriate time…with a song of praise in my head (and material for a CWO post *smile*).

My dear beloved sisters in Christ, we are all busy women—if at home or outside the home. We have responsibilities to keep the household running, to be a wife, mom, friend and co-worker. The only way we can do all this is to have Him fill our cup every single day.

"Lord, You are our refuge and strength. You are always ready to help in times of trouble. We will not fear what our days have in store for us. Even if our daily oceans of responsibility seem to overwhelm us, we know where we can find refuge. Lord, remind us to be still before You; you are our calm in the storm. In the precious name of Jesus ~ Amen."